Daniel's letters to father and mother

[cbnicholson]

((working at the forge in Hlint))
Freas, Jenra 13, 1409
“Edict 33 be rescinded.” that thought causes a smile to appear on Daniel's face as gives his armor a fresh coat of gold paint. “Mine honor be restored in full and Master Reus be a better man, nay a true priest, than I hath hoped. May the Great Dragon guide him.” Daniel finishes the thought and his armor, letting the paint dry. Next he carefully touches up his shield, hammering out the dents, and polishing the scratches out. Regarding himself in the polish of his shield, “Verily, the image of a knight esquire once again.”
Recalling the struggle to resolve Edict 33, Daniel pulls out his journal and under the first line of the knights code adds a quote from one whom he has grown to admire. By the Insight of your wisdom we seek the best ways to observe the law. “I will not follow blindly” Jennara Creekskipper, Knight of the Wyrm, Heart of the Dragon Jenra 10, 1409 debate with Reus over Edict 33, Velensk Temple of Rofirein, Mistone.
“Perchance now, mine application for Knight of the Wyrm canst go forward.” Daniel sets to work writing a letter to the Temple.

[cbnicholson]

Daniel reflects in light of a candle at 118 Llast, he pulls out a mixed group of parchments and papers and makes a new entry

Mulnari, Mai 9, 1409
Mine Guild’s most recent foray to Forests of the Mists endeth in disaster. Nearly all fell to those that dwell within. I escaped with mine life due to Miss Jil’s quick actions and and the foresight of Milady Ferrit and her gift of invisibility potion. Most dire of all, be Anrillan’s fall, for with that death, the soul mother feasted her ninth time on his soul. Due to this, Rain hath decided to forgo dangerous trips that he may be present for Sonya and his children. All in the Guild , understandeth why, but the loss of his guidance in the field whilst be felt. Also it be agreed in general that future trips to Forest of Mists must be undertaken under two conditions. Foremost, a cleric, must be commissioned to accompany the group. Secondly, said group must be comprised of a minimum of four people. Tis felt that with these conditions met, a safe trip canst be had. May the Lord Protector guide me to mine path.

The investigation into Imjam proveth most fruitful. Baroness Athalia Imjam be of noble bearing and blood and graced us with her insight. Mine notes art in some disarray, but herein be the bits of it.
Artist of the painting be a Joseph Ventigo Milara – name of an Imjam from long ago. Be thought to make profound changes to the Kingdom.
The Baroness held a walking stick which bore a ruby. Twas thought to be of some significance.
Baroness of Imjam giveth us a clue as to our next destination – Hill of Bones. “Hill of bones and the canyon beyond hold the keys.”
Finally, Miss Rhynn appointed me her Battle Commander. In mine first battle that with the forces of the Vine, It went most ill for us. I must see to learning more on battlefield tactics afore our next meeting.
Into the light of your love for the people of this world we step, to follow the path you set by your Will. ((Daniel reads this line, second to last in the Knights code, but perhaps the true reason for the Knights he adds this brief prayer below it.)) - Mine Lord Protector, Grant me thy wisdom in all matters concerning thy will so that mine steps not falter whenst the time comes to act. Further, let my actions be guided by love of justice not petty vengeance or hatred.

//reference link for approval of alignment shift to L.G. from N.G.
http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=32630&posts=2&start=1

[cbnicholson]

Daniel is back in his favorite spot, a park off Haven Castle. His packet of parchments lie in a neat pile before him as he painstakingly writes a fresh page.
Satari, Augra 28, 1409
Our Duty to serve in fairness and integrity.
Our duty to serve through good judgement and generosity.
Our duty to serve through faith and true Justice
Our Duty to serve as champions of law and order against injustice and evil
Tis a bittersweet draught I must swallow this day. Lady Aniela Perdu, the embodiment of all that I long to be – a true servant of mine Lord Protector and ..a good friend. (Daniel sighs heavily, then continues writing) I didst not expect to be captured so, but from the moment I saw her walk towards me in the wastelands, her bearing determined and noble despite her shabby armor, I simply knew - a kindred soul. Her traveled path to the All Seeing be a tale of woe, then courage, then triumph. Her mother be slain by an assassin most foul afore her very eyes; hence the desire for justice. Her courage be taking the oaths of Paladin, in service to The Lord Protector. She triumphs in the awarding of the Scale, her shield that denoteth her completion of training. And thus, she comes to Hlint to bring justice and to vanquish that which led her to her path. As merchant, I outfit her with the very best mine hands couldst make – plate armor, sword and shield for the glory of Rofirein.
Over the course of several days we traveled and fought as one. The ogres of the Zainge, Krandor and Dire Wood Cave knew the color of our blades ere we were done. By the end of our time, I confessed all mine heart to her and she telleth me hers. Twas cruel duty, but seeing the..warmth in her eyes, I knew that such must be spoken lest I betray friendship. She blessed me with her understanding and spoketh truth though I saw it pained her.
That truth be that I must speak to Tegan of mine feelings but how? Even now, the fear of her rejection maketh me the coward and yet - I see the truth of it in another set of eyes. ((Daniel puts his quill and parchment away and spends the day in quiet introspection, watching the ripples in the pond.))

[cbnicholson]

"Tis done. I hath confessed mine love to her and Lady Tegan hath agreed to explore the relationship further..to continue as before, as we truly learn each another. I wilst leap at the challenge of it. Lady Aniela taketh this news as one saddened. The look in her eyes be enough to unman any and I feel the cad, truly." Daniel hangs his head as he dwells upon that look. "My one redemption be that no false promise be made. Prithee, Mine Lord Protector wherefore can the heart feeleth such joy and bitter pain at once?!! Tis almost more than a mere man canst stand."

[cbnicholson]

Wedlar, Novlar 4, 1409
Ere the last few days hath been too brief by far. I spendeth mine days crafting arrows and in the light of her evening star. She warms slowly, my faceelaw Tegan, but I wilst prevail. She grants me small favor of her presence and I be content with what gifts I receive. I remembereth mine father's words on the subject of women. "Findeth her true love in this world and it make it thy own" he telleth me. The trick be to find the thing that wilst capture her heart. *Daniel ponders it for a time and sighs* a daunting task to be sure for what man truly knoweth the mind of a woman? I lack wit to maketh sharp funny words and mine speech soundeth the dullard at times, but I do mean well and true. Pray let that suffice. Mine Lord Protector, if she be the one meant for me, grant mineself the right words. For now, I hath purchased a set of boots, Ascender's March Barion calleth them, golden in color, from her guild, not out of need, but out of mine need to be near her. They cost me dear true, but art a pittance in price compared to a single kiss from faceelaw.

Lest I appear to lose all manner of myself, I didst notice four new faces in Hlint the other day. All bore a curious tatoo of dragon scales on their persons. From mine little observance , all seemed to know each other well and spoketh in a polite manner. I spoke of thier presence to the Lady Aniela Perdu later that eve and bid her to inquire as to thier professions and intent. More adventurer's to be sure, but mayhap more of the Lord Protector's followers findeth their way to us and couldst use the assistance of mine guild and Lady Aniela's sword. I wilst make mine introductions and offer services as soon as I be able.

*Daniel kneels in prayer briefly, meditating on another line in the Knight's code*
Our Duty to serve in fairness and integrity. Mine Lord Protector grant unto me thy blessings so that I may be of full service to all who do thy will.

[cbnicholson]

“Fool, idiot, and lackwit!” Daniel curses himself as the full realization at what almost transpired sinks in. “Thou must learn her heart, fool, lest her gifts be taken from thee, not by another, but by thy own stupidity!” Daniel plays back the scene in his mind once again, seeing himself hug the Paladin Aniela in relief at their mutual recovery from death. As they disengaged he remembers hearing the magic and spying a fleeting glimpse of his beloved in the trees some thirty feet away, a pained look on her face. Moments later as he and Aniela meet her on the road, Tegan tells them both coldly “I’m sorry but I don’t feel like talking, goodbye” as she hurries off. “Oh bother.” Daniel mutters to himself, the prickly realization of his transgression starting to become apparent to his wool head. “Farewell Lady Aniela, there be something I must do.” Daniel leaves the now puzzled paladin as they approach the east gate of Hlint.

Without further ceremony Daniel begins seeking out Tegan, first in Hlint, then Leilon, then the high forest. Upon approaching the woods, an inspiration strikes him. “A gift of arrows for her, but first I needst oak” Daniel eyes the woods carefully spotting the now ready for cutting oak trees and their insect guardians. Dispatching the first batch easily, he gathers some two limbs. Thinking himself safe, he advances further and hears the rustling of spiders legs on leaves.”Blast and bother, another ambush, Great Dragon – aid me!” Feeling a wicked bite to his lower leg, Daniel winces as the burning of poison shoots towards his heart, moments later, more bites paralyze him and he lies bleeding on the forest floor,” blasted trees” he mutters as seconds later the wail of the soul mother follows as all goes dark...the pain fades and he awakes in Hlint. “Mine seventh” Daniel mutters then shrugs,”Tis not a good day” Daniel grumbles. Finally at a loss as to where to find Tegan, Daniel reflects near Moraken’s tower, hoping that she will appear there from portal.

Time passes and eventually she appears. “Daniel!” she exclaims seeing his weakened state, “What happened?” He makes reply, “Milady, we must speak thou and I for I hath dire news least be mine seventh dining with the soul mother.” Her expression in one of mixed anger and concern, but she uses her magic to conceal them both and they walk to the shores of Lake Ibnoune. Tegan turns and speaks forcefully, “Daniel, I saw you with her. She hugged you and you did nothing to stop it, further you hugged her back.” Tegan’s statement makes Daniel pause. “Tis true, milady, I didst hug her, but twas as a brother, naught else.” Her eyes, filled with pain, tell him clearly that is not what she saw. Examining his feelings, Daniel sees the truth of it. “I respondeth to Aniela’s need of mineself, a need I see not in thee” Tegan nods in reply, justified anger and hurt plainly written on her beautiful face now. Sighing, she reaches inside a pouch on her waist and withdraws a familiar bit of rag wrapped around his gift. “Take this and give it to the one you truly desire, I can never need you as she does.” The words bite more painfully than any spider’s poison into Daniel’s heart causing tears to form in his eyes. Desperate, he speaks “Beloved, do not, for this ring be for thee and no other, what gift canst I bestow, what promise must I make, what oath must I swear to thee?? Pray tell me and I wilst so swear??!! Tegan replies true anger clouding her features “It infuriates me that all men think I need something from them or that I require some gift. Daniel, I only want you to be happy.” Daniel absorbs this and as he does an insight is granted and he presses the ring back to her. “Beloved, pray forgive me, another chance I beg. I be such a wool head, mayhap we canst start anew? For I love thee and no other truly. Looketh into mine eyes and tell me I lie! “His eyes shine with steely determination and love for her. She nods slowly, a small measure of feeling returning to her own eyes. “I don’t think you’re that dumb, Daniel.” She smiles. Daniel draws close to her, taking her hand into his and gently kisses the back of it, tickling her with his mustache. “Ah, but I do be a fool, faceelaw for thee.” Daniel releases her hand and steps back to look into her blue eyes. Although still guarded, they now once again hold the fire and tenderness that he has loved since his arrival in Hlint. “There be the lady I falleth in love with all those years ago.” He smiles back at her. Noting the passage of time, “I know thy guild awaits thee Milady as doth mine. Farewell Beloved.” Daniel watches as Tegan makes her way northward towards the forest and Leilon beyond. He waves and says to himself as she fades from view, “aye milady, I thought thee a goddess, mine evening star, but thou art a woman first and foremost, I shall not forget it ever again.”

[cbnicholson]

Mulnari, Mai 2, 1410

The last months pass as one in a dream. Tegan, mine beloved, grant me the gift of her presence whenst the duties of her guild allow. I be most grateful for these small interludes of happiness I find in her person. Upon a recent foray to Dregar, Tegan accompanied us with the agreement that all be split between the Angels and her own guild. We first helped her to hunt malar near the River of Shadows. For sooth, twas not a very exciting hunt as Tegan taketh no chances with the vampire assassins or the malar and by our overwhelming numbers and skill we quickly dealt death to both creatures.

We then quested in the Iron Hills, seeking gold in the Ogre Stronghold. Fully loaded with such, we madeth our way to Hurm and as we passed near Dalos Lake , I espied what I took to be the Barion. He sayeth not a word in greeting but hurried away as if his thick frame and shield denoting Rofirein not betray his presense despite his changed armor. By the haste of his departure and the set of his shoulders, he seemeth unsettled by Tegan’s appearance or perhaps mine own. May the Lord Protector comfort him in Abigail and in those he chooses to be with. I hath seen his application for Knighthood upon the lists in Velensk. May the Lord Protector grant us both our hearts requirements. I, for one, wouldst be honored to fight at his side, as we did in recovery of the recipe, differing guilds or no.

//Exploring the Past II

Our rescue of Maev yielded a mixed result. Maev be a changed woman in that she hath denounced Toran. I knoweth not what to make of such a change but it appeareth to be her own will and not some fell sorcery of the Vine. It saddens me to behold such an unwavering faith and dedication broken by temptation of earthy pleasures.

Miss Rhynn announced her desire to leave our motley group. Drogo has taken over in her stead, more out of need that naught else. We now seek a Baron Kelly and information on the Darklands. I wouldst seek such knowledge at Blackford provided I be welcome therein, mine last visit went..poorly.

[cbnicholson]

With heart and mind focused on healing, Daniel journeys to Velensk Temple of the Lord Protector. Donning simple priest robes he begins the week long ritual of fasting and prayer to cleanse and strengthen himself for his upcoming trials. His mantra be the Knight of the Wyrm's Code.

By the Insight of your wisdom we seek the best ways to observe the law.
By the Strength of your love as a shield we protect the innocent.
By the Might of your will we drive back those who seek to overthrow justice
By the Light of your soul we bring light into the darkness, law and order to chaos.
Our Duty to serve in fairness and integrity.
Our duty to serve through good judgement and generosity.
Our duty to serve through faith and true Justice
Our Duty to serve as champions of law and order against injustice and evil
Our steadfastness, our hearts and our souls are with you Great Dragon.
Into the light of your love for the people of this world we step, to follow the path you set by your Will.
To bring Law, impartial judgement and order to the world.

His prayers to the Lord Protector for strength, courage for duty, and wisdom. His studies will be of the Law.

[cbnicholson]

Daniel moves through his day in a dreamlike state, his actions nearly automatic and a nearly constant grin on his face. Later in the eve, Kyle and Ferrit hear singing coming from the bath in thier room as Daniel belts out few lines to a love song he heard from a bard in Leilon. "The ship tosses and turns on the wave..zzz" he finishes the last lines with a peaceful snore.

[cbnicholson]

Dawn finds Daniel once again surrounded by roses next to the pond that has become his favorite place. His head bowed in prayer, Daniel prays unceasingly for an end to the burning pain that afflicts his heart. "Mine Lord Protector, take this burden from me, let me know thy peace once again. In mine folly, I reacheth for the evening star and lo though it be all that I may wish for, I see it be as strong drink to one as weak willed as I. Mine duties suffer, mine friends and family sayeth nothing but I fail them at turns in mine quest to ascend to her heights and I be shamed by this need for her words, her presence, her love. She, who deserveth so much more than I wilst ever become, seemingly hast accepted mine base state and helped mine beggared self in truth of what she be - an angel in womanly form. I lack the grace to say such to her beautiful face, but if it by thy will, All Watching, let what grace thou giveth to me fall unto her. Put the flame of mine love for her in her heart. For mine part, what canst I do but make small favor for her with words and flowers. Tis not enough for one such as she and yet.. it be all I have to give. For my worldly pursuits falter and fail and I be but thy humble and poor servant. Others wouldst give from thier bounty, I wilst give her all I possess. Grant me thy comfort and blessing Lord Dragon, I beg." Daniel remains in his place for a time reconciling his heart and mind.

[cbnicholson]

Tunar, Jenra 3, 1411

*Daniel pulls his parchments for his pack and arranges them in front of him and frowns as he tries to make out some the phrases he’s left as proof of his wanderings. He shakes his head and says, “Tis not quite right, I will have to tone down my affection for the old tongue a bit methinks, lest my words become complete incomprehensible. I shall save mine more colorful words for whenst I address others in formal. Aye that is what I will do.”

I have neglected my writing of late, mostly due to adventures with others in Dregar and Rilaraoh no. On a recent trip with mine beloved granted me some insight into her world. I must confess to a lack of ability to keep up the sharp banter that accompanied our journey through Dregar to Firesteep where we met with Voon Loom, Boom Loom, and Master Hawk. I found the terrain disconcerting and unknown to my eyes and felt it wise to merely keep as silent as I could and observe. While sometimes a bit crude on the part of Master Hawk, the aforementioned banter showed the love and respect that these gentlemen feel for Tegan and as an outsider I must confess to a bit a jealousy to such affections. Never – the – less, I felt that I did what I could in helping the group procure both admantium ore and coal and return safely to Xora’s Tower. Upon our return we traveled to the place of Mahogany to gather the ingredients Tegan uses to make her enchantments and foodstuffs. We then made our way to Voon’s home in Dalanthar wherein I took my leave of the group by portal back to Hlint. Milady Tegan went ahead of me and as I sat in the ordered neatness of Voon’s home, Master Hawk expressed his opinion that I should let off my pursuit of Tegan’s heart. Not knowing what was shared between friends, I thought it best to appear confident of her love and say nothing lest I divulge secrets I pledged not to.


//Exploring the Past : Darklands placeholder pending approval of notes

Lady JennaJade De’ Shade

I finally was granted the privilege of meeting Barion’s newest bride to be the other day in Hlint. As I prepared to gather ore from Red Light Caverns with Jenna Pandorn, she approached and asked if she could accompany us. As the best ores are located deep in the caverns, I reluctantly consented, knowing full well the anger of Barion should any harm befall his beloved as she dwell in my charge. We made our way easily enough, such a journey being almost second nature to one who forges metal. I spoke direct to her of what she knew of Barion’s past loves and expressed my desire for hers and Barions happiness. The ore be retrieved and her task of taking the head of the goblin chief for Ronus completed, We parted company on what I thought to be good terms.

Some days later I was asked to accompany a dear friend, Amilia Tannes on a trip to Dire woods cave. Partied with us was Lex’or, Zergon, Christine, and Miss Hanna. About that time I noticed Lady JennaJade seemed to not to care for my presence and asked her forgiveness for whatever transgressions I seemingly had made. She deigned to acknowledge my presence but said she would not speak of at that time as she was in some state of mind for battle. We traveled overland to the broken forest when Lex’or announced his decision to challenge the forest. I spoke loudly and quickly against it, but in his haste, he must have not heard me and many of the others followed him blindly to a quick and horrendous death. I tried to save those I could but the vines ripped them to pieces before I could do much. I fled back to Krandor outskirts and awaited the forest to calm down. Zergon and Amilia joined me and I healed what injuries I could and we rested for a time. I periodically checked the forest and was rebuffed twice before giving it over and just waiting. During this time, Master Q came to deal with the situation and entered the forest to battle the vines for a time. Whilst he did so, Lady JennaJade attempted to recover her stone not once, but twice and was thrown down both times. The first she made no attempt at hello but plunged still deathly ill into the forest, the second she was warded and hidden by Zergon’s magics, but Master Q’s efforts against the undergrowth had riled the vines to the point of lethalness to any who entered. Much later after the vines had been pacified by Master Q, we traveled along the edges and made our way safely to Velensk a much smaller group of myself, Zergon, Dalan , and Miss Amilia. We gathered the topaz from the cave and defeated the ogres inside easily. I must start making more trips to Dregar as these poor ogres hardly test my skill anymore.

*Daniel finishes with a prayer of thanks

“Mine Lord Protector, mine thanks for both the quiet moments with mine beloved and the chance to adventure by her side. I thank thee also for mine family, the angels and all the blessing thou bestow upon thy servant.”

//yes I 'm retreating a bit from the archaic speech. Dan will still use it in RP as much as I can stand it anyway. I’m finding it hard to have flowing conversations when I 'm tied up in trying to remember tense and verb. He he.

[cbnicholson]

*Daniel pens a quick note on his parchments.

Dark dreams haunt my sleep. I awake exhausted but find no rest after. I sense malice and see only smiling faces. All seems joyful about me but mine mind telleth me otherwise despite lack of proof. I hath this sense of trepidation of the upcoming initiations as if mayhap after all mine prayers, I wilst be found wanting in some way. I have asked for Sister Serissa to seek me out. I need her counsel and mayhap a reconciliation with our mutual Lord Protector.

A spot of light be Miss Clarissa, a daughter of Toran. I helped her best I could in her training as a warrior and with some second hand equipment. May the All-Seeing keepeth her safe in her journeys.

[cbnicholson]

Sunra, Mar 22, 1411

I have travelled these past months through the deserts of Dregar and the Forests of Mists seeking solace from the anguish that I bear in mind and heart. I spoke of mine internal torment in Hlint recently, revealing mine fears of rejection by the Knighthood to Miss Tilli. She seems to think that I somehow deserve a Knighthood and frowned at my speech of accepting the Lord Protector's will in that regard. For that be mine state of mind of late..acceptance of what will be. I wilst make every effort to answer the rites of Knighthood fully, guided by mine faith in the Lord Protector's justice and what I know to be right in my heart.

[cbnicholson]

Tunar, Mai 10, 1411

Tis been some time since I penned word to page and I simply must relate some events. First, Sister Serissa and I finally found time to talk about the events of Broken Forest. I told her of my uncertainty and related the events as I recalled them. We spoke at length on it and I think she finally understood what I attempted to do that day – which was to save those I could. If my sword could have cleared it scabbard faster or had I been able to react quicker, mayhap events would have unfolded differently, I do not know. Mine one regret e that I did not yell the order to not follow Lex’or louder or make those that went after him listen. In that I accept mine failure to lead properly.
Further, we discussed her upcoming wedding to Master Quantum in which she invited me. I wished her and him all the happiness they deserve and promised to attend.

Finally, another of Rofirein, Sister Mylindra, felt the need to offer her counsel to reconcile Lady JennaJade and mineself over this same incident. Again, I put forth my part of the tale and listened to hers under Sister’s prompting. I understand now that from her point of view, it appeared that I had hung back from the fight which be true for the reason that I alone apparently knew the sad results of Lex’or’s challenge and wished to contain the carnage as best as possible. Mine efforts and JennaJade’s, and Christine’s fall be not in vain. Zergon and Miss Amilia didst survive the encounter due to their sacrifice and my healing efforts immediately after. She also accepted my apology for the tone of my words in Red Light Caverns and I accepted hers in regards to this incident. I wish it behind me and that peace be granted to those involved.


By the Strength of your love as a shield we protect the innocent.


((Daniel kneels and prays briefly)) This be the true cause of the knighthood as written in mine heart. Grant that I may continue to live by this ideal even if I should prove unworthy of knighthood, for it be the ideal not the title that truly matters.

//we talked and worked this out ic, bearing in mind two items: 1. Daniel did hang back from the fight not from cowardice, but from having a clue of what was about to occur. He did try to warn those he was with not to go forward and apparently was heard only partially but not heeded in a timely manner. 2. Good ole fashion lag. I didn’t even see Jenna go down the first time and barely saw Christine start to fight the deadly assassin vine. I’m not sure if it was from Lex’or’s magical buffs or when the choking vine area of effect spell kicked in. I’ve now told my story to three different people and consider this closed, forgiven, and best only remembered as a lesson – don’t agro the broken forest unless your willing to face the consequences and certainly let others know who are with you that you intend to do so- clearly and before you do so.