A few years ago, I wrote a story about how one of the characters in my novel became who he is. I wrote it for my own consumption, but I figured I'd put it out there for the heck of it.
Sole Sacrifice
Sithral Tyr watched helplessly while three of his children died of a strange illness. When his last remaining son falls ill, he gives up on his clan's shaman and goes in search of a cure. His journey takes him to a land of danger and debauchery where he's forced to make the ultimate sacrifice in the hopes of saving not just his son but his entire village.
Smashwords edition
It's a tragic story with a dark ending.
If you prefer stories with a happy ending, this probably isn't for you. 
8/26/10 Update: I'd originally listed it for free, but I want to put it on Amazon. Here's a coupon you can use to get it free at Smashwords: JR68L