The Poniard's Hilt; Or, Karadeucq and Ronan. A Tale of Bagauders and Vagres

"The Poniard's Hilt; Or, Karadeucq and Ronan. A Tale of Bagauders and Vagres" by Eugène Sue is a captivating historical fiction that explores the lives of ordinary people during a time of rebellion and harsh rule. It's part of a larger collection that shares the struggles of a working-class family through different periods in time. The story introduces us to Karadeucq, a young man eager to fight against the powerful Franks, and Ronan, as they face a world where the powerful ruling class presents significant perils, and also filled with magical folklore. The story begins with an old man reflecting on his family's past and the drastic changes brought about by the Frankish reign. His grandson, full of youthful bravery, wants to join a group fighting against Frankish control. After warnings about fairies and the arrival of a mysterious peddler, Karadeucq takes off on an adventure, seeking to confront injustice and change his destiny. This opening mixes family history, personal ambition, and the brutal realities of life under foreign invaders, drawing readers into a world of historical conflict and fantasy.