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I woke up this morning on the ground...staring up at this strange stone cross. I looked around...clearing the cobwebs from my head...to find I was not in North Hampshire anymore. And Cardiana wasn't beside me.
The people I met so far talked about this being a town called Hlint...and everyone had the same dream of a dragon who drafted them into a war with this Blood guy. This dragon...it seems has been doing this for a while conscripting people against their will...I guess. It took me away from my home...my family...Cardiana.
Cardiana...sweet Cardiana. Never got to tell you I love you. And now you may never know. If killing this Blood will bring me back to you...then he dies....
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Rats...back to training against rats...
I haven't done any rat catching since I first started training with Cardiana. It was the first time she let me use a blade. This man Johan...his wife was ill and he needed someone to go get some rat pelts for him. And...the accountant at the Courthouse...lost the city's tax records. I had to get them from a 'Ratman'. If Cardi could see me now...she would laugh her head off. I miss her. When I lie in bed at the Wild Surge...I close my eyes and I can see her face...like she was right in front of me. I go to reach for her...but only get air. Then I get angry.
What was the surprise that she had for me? If only that blasted dragon hadn't taken me from her...
After I get done here...that dragon owes me big...
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I helped with the rats again...
But this guy...I forget his name...kept running off...getting killed. He won't last too long if he dosen't learn patience. That is something Cardiana taught me. I would wade into them...and get pretty banged up doing it. Cardiana would just let them come to her and take them one at a time...never getting surrounded. After many bandages...and bruises...I learned not to run into every battle head on.
His companion...Selena Tiriel...was with us. Now that is a warrior. She swings a mean Greataxe. She reminds me of Cardiana. How she would just wait and be patient...even when we cleaned out the undead in the crypts..she struck with ease.
I will learn a lot from her...if she doesn't mind the company...
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The days just run together. I do the odd job here and there. Now...Johan needs a boar's pelt. While this allows me to use my katana...my skills are not progressing as it did when I was with Cardiana. I need to find someone versed in katana to help me. But none may come as close to being like her.
Cardiana...Cardiana. Do you miss me? Do you wonder where I have gone to? You don't even know how I feel right now. I'm so alone here.
Well...time to find that boar's pelt for Johan. And that wagon master...Ronus...needs someone...I'll see him too..
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There have been attacks by this Blood's armies in and around this place. And they were beaten back by the hearty souls here. Oh...how I wish I was trained enough to join them!!! It would give me some small bit of satisfaction...since it is because of him...that dragon has taken me from all those I love.
I'm still not acclimated to my surroundings...I find myself lost and not knowing what to do.
Cardi...I wish you were her to guide me as you always have.
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I saw Ranewin again today. I had met her when I first came here. She looks very different now. Some kind of curse was placed on her after she destroyed this necromancer's hand. The young vibrant face she had is now a weathered aged face...like that on my grandmother. The price she paid to destroy an evil artifact. There is a cure...if you could call it that...that would conceal the effects and restore her to a somewhat normal state. I hope she can find this. She is a kind woman.
Cardi...you would like her...she reminds me of you...I hope the letters I send are getting to you. And I hope you are writing back. I miss you so...
I went with some others to a place called Haven. Their mines are crawling with Ogres and we dispatched quite a few of them. You would have been proud of me Cardi. They didn't even scratch me. But that's maybe because my companions are better at combat than I...but I got my strikes in.
I must start to craft a katana. You were just about to teach me how before I was taken from you. It shall be a weapon that is worthy of a Master. Then...I will return to you.
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Met someone new today...
Mara is her name. A dark-skinned Elven woman. However I don't think she is Drow. Her mannerism aren't Drow-like...if there is such a description. She needed help getting salt and since I was just sitting there she asked me. As I had nothing to do...I went.
I suspect she really needed some company...she took care of those Goblins like she owned them. She is a deadly shot with the bow. She didn't really need my help. But...I was glad to have some company. I was feeling so alone. We gathered all the salt we could find and headed back. It was then I remembered the bard in the Wild Surge who lost her necklace. I asked Mara if she would take me to the cave in the Sielwood(?) to retrieve it. She smiled and accepted without even hesitating. However...the goblins who had the necklace did not return to the cave yet...so we abandoned the search for now. She is an interesting one...I do hope we can come back and finish what we started...
I really need to start crafting my own katana...the Seilwood cave has ores...maybe I can start there...
No word from Cardiana...I am worried...
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Finally got that necklace. Had some help from Armin and a few others. The bard was happy enough to get such an heirloom back.
Then I saw Talon again. She and this Azaria say thay are sisters. Must be a girl thing because Talon is an elf...and Azaria is a halfling...women.
Anyway...they needed some sage and we went to this place called the Broken Forest. The place was crawling with vermin undead and ogres. The Ogres...had a really bad experience. One struck me from behind and everything went dark.
I was floating in this darkness...a Void that had no horizon. Just as I resigned myself to never seeing Cardiana again...I found myself back in Hlint...very weak and very...incorporeal. This priestess..Ayla...said that that is what happens when you are struck down and after some time...you regain your strength. That is good. I don't think I would want to wander the world like a ghost forever. I must be careful next time.
The mail came and still nothing from Cardiana. I am getting really worried. I hope she doesn't think I'm dead...
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I can now go into that cave in the Seilwood to get some copper ores to craft into weapons. Thanks to this helm I got from that Lieutenant in Fort Llast...I can stand up to the kobolds in there and get to mining.
I still need to find someone willing to take an apprentice for training in the katana. It won't be much use to make a quality weapon if I can't wield it properly. There is a bulletin board in the Wild Surge Inn. Maybe if I place a request...someone will contact me. It won't be the same as with Cardiana...but she is in another place. Worrying about me no doubt. There has been another mail drop today and still no word. I hope she got my letter.
I am starting to get the hang of smelting ore. I have a few copper ingots in the vault and as soon as I get the molds for weapons...I can begin making katanas. But it will take time to work the real quality metals.
There is nothing else I can do for the moment...
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Made a new friend today...
Supintaltha Kilortinlathan. Whew...got tongue tied trying to say it. She just wants to be called Supin for short. She needed to go down into the crypts for essence for Erag. I swear he must be addicted to the stuff. She is also a capable warrior...wielding twin scimitars. That's what I may do....wield twin katana blades. I would look forward to adventuring with her again.
Ranewin also got a hold of me today. Wanted to go to the Grey Peaks. Since I need to get this Oil of Vukas for this girl in Fort Llast...I went with her. Things went bad fast...I got sent to the dark horizonless Void again...but this time it felt a little different...like someone or something was looking my way but didn't see me. I wonder what that is all about.
Well...I'm going to be resting up in Hlint again. No word yet again from Cardiana. And I really need to find someone who would train me in katana...
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I seem to be making friends easily here...
And all it took was to become a ghostly figure. Aries had seen me wandering Hlint in my ghostly appearance and offered to take me back to where I fell to reclaim my body and soul. She was genuinely concerned about it. Then Angela Swann joined us...then Ranewin and her lover Trysk. I don't blame Ranewin for me becoming a spirit this time...I joined her willingly when I could have stayed in Hlint. So it is really my fault I ended up that way. Then this giant Glokk joined us. Then a few whose names escapes me now. I'll remember them next time I run into them.
We went back to the Grey Peaks where I fell...and as I touched the spot where I fell...I felt divine energy flow through me as my spirit reconnected with my body. It was good to feel whole again. I must remember never to travel through that area again until I am particularly well trained. If it weren't for my companions... I would have had to wait a while for my spirit to reclaim my body on its own. I fell two more times due to my weakend condition. Thanks to them all for their help.
No mail came today...this not hearing from home is getting me crazy...
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I saw Talon again today...
We were walking towards the Craft House...when she asked me to go to a party at the Leilon Arms Tavern with her. Since I was curious about the Leilon Arms anyway and Talon is a beautiful woman....I accepted. She smiled brightly as I said I would accompany her. A smile that was a glad smile.
No sooner than we meet at the Leilon Arms that Azaria shows up...again. Then Talon wanted to leave to take care of her 'sister'. This...after wanting me to see the room she had rented there. She kissed my cheek and promised to come with me the next time the Arms is open. And then she left with Azaria in tow. I spent the evening trying to beat Acacea in the old game of bouncing the coin in the glass. I lost. My mind was still on Talon.
I don't know what to make of this...is Talon interested or not? I'm getting confused.
Word form Cardiana is way way overdue...something has happened...I feel it...
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Another venture into the crypts...
This time it was to help Nim'Sy'Amandil and Ferrit get more essence for Erag. Nim is searching for her daughter...Sy'Ravenne and is really worried for her. Seems that Sy'Ravenne is close to having the Soul Mother take her for good and Nim wishes to see her before that happens. It would be sad if they don't get together before then. I hope she finds Sy'Ravenne before the end comes.
Ferrit is excellent with a bow...just like Nim. They hit their targets with precision at point blank range. And Ferrit can drink...after we got the essence we downed a few at the Wild Surge. She was getting annoyed at the attention the drunks were giving her and I had to keep her from cutting one. Can't have a murder rap for a drunk. She is...an interesting woman...
There is still nothing from home...if word doesn't come soon...I may have to try to get back to Vanavar but I don't think that dragon will let me though...so I wait...
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Well...it wasn't meant to be...
Talon and I will just be friends. I thought I wanted to explore a relationship with her...but it would have been wrong. I felt that it wasn't right...I think that it was my missing Cardiana that was drawing me to her. She does remind me of Cardi. In fact...Talon's heart belongs to Glenn Thendor. Fortunate man he is. I wish her happiness with him. And I still miss Cardiana back home. But the silence from home is unnerving...
I must post to the board in the Wild Surge. If I'm to be ready for Blood and his armies...I must be trained well. Time is a wasting...
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There is some bad news today...
Nim's daughter...Sy'Ravenne...was taken by the Soul Mother yesterday. I never seen this Soul Mother...but from what others have told me...it is not a pleasant thing. Once the Soul Mother takes you...you don't come back. I guess I am lucky...the two times I was in the blackness...no one came to see me there. But my luck won't hold out forever...so I'm told.
No response yet from the Wild Surge. Guess I may have to ask around. Someone may want to take me on as an apprentice. I just have to look.
Gave some skeleton knuckles to Ayla Bineau. Got 4 potions like the one I used to save Ferrit's life the other day. It was fortunate that I had it with me. A griffon almost killed her while we were coming back from Port Hampshire that day. I poured the contents into her mouth and saved her from going into the darkness. I...was afraid I wasn't going to get to her in time. And I was worried. I...like her.
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An interesting day...
Ozy Llewellyn regaled us with the story of a paladin...Dougal...who went against the orders of his god and refused to slay some children and became an avatar of Shadisson. More to come later.
Ferrit and I went a mining and crafting. I made her a set of darts as a gift. She used some and she is getting the hang of using them. Her smile lights up the room when she made her first batch of arrowheads...leathers...and things. I...like to see her smile.
We tried to get some more copper from Seilwood...but we both fell to spiders. I had used all my potions the first time around. We are resting in Hlint...and maybe after our souls reunite with our bodies...we will try again tomorrow...before we go to the Leilon Arms.
I look forward to spending the evening with her...
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Another soul is taken from us...
Ayla Bineau...the priestess I was collecting skeleton knuckles for is dead. She had gone into the mines alone and was killed. Why would she go alone? Doesn't make sense. I didn't know her for long...but she was a kind and caring soul. That's two that I know of. I will miss Ayla.
I need to go to the Arms tonight. A few drinks to Ayla is in order.
I hope Ferrit will come with me tonight. I could use her company...
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I have joined a trader's group...
Well...I should say Ferrit and I did. We spoke to Talon and Azaria and they have a good outfit going. We get to use whatever is availiable as long as we contribute to the treasury of the company. The Brightstar Traders. Catchy name. I have a room in Harmony Grove near Leilon. A fair hike from Hlint...but it is a decent place.
And the way I see it...it is the only way I could hone my weaponcrafting skills without going broke to do it. I just need to put back what I use. I'm not getting anywhere on my own.
I heard that there is a man named Jet who is versed in katana blades. While I'm getting materials for the company...I can train with him as well. I'll need to seek him out...
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It was a very solemn day...
Ayla Bineau's wake. I felt out of place with only Ferrit, Talon, Roxx and Azaria the only familiar faces there. But I felt it was the right thing to do to be there. And judging by the number of people in attendance...Ayla was well loved. Geir....her fiance...is a very kind and gracious man. His grief made even deeper in that he and Ayla were to be married today...instead of mourning her at her wake. A very harsh thing to have happened. I expressed my condolences to him and he thanked me for just showing. Gracious indeed.
Ilsare has blessed me with very special people...my family...my friends...Ferrit. I feel fortunate that I met Ayla...and can count her as a special person in my life...even if it was for the shortest amount of time. Ilsare's love will comfort her in the afterlife.
I...feel the need to hit a rock with a pick. I need to channel some energy...
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A very productive outing...
Last night...Talon, Azaria, Caeli, Kloss, Ferrit and myself went on a grand tour around Mistone gathering materials. We went around from Fort Hope to Port Hampshire via the Blood Desert. We killed everything that got in our way and the best part of it was...no one died!! Not even close to getting killed. We acted as a team and took our time and took them one at a time. We gathered much and Talon was pleased.
I am very glad to be a part of this group. I can consider them all friends. But Ferrit...she is becoming more to me. We are becoming close. I needed to go to Leilon to put some things in the community chests when she kissed my cheek. It surprised me...but it was a welcome surprise. So I kissed her cheek in return. I hope that there will be many more of those...
I left and made it to Fort Llast without an incident. I will rest here before going on. I will be thinking of Ferrit tonight...
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Ilsare shows love at strange times...
A good friend of Roxx's was taken by the Soul Mother yesterday. Bopthor was his name. I never met him...and from what I hear he was a good man. And...a friend of Roxx is certainly a friend of mine. Ferrit and I are planning a wake for Bopthor...even though neither one of us really knew him. We do this for Roxx...because he is a good friend of ours. This makes 3 souls claimed by that...that...::Elven expletive:: in less than a month.
But there is good that comes out of this day. Ferrit and I went outside to get some air and to talk. We found ourselves by the docks where the sea air and the cool breeze was enticing. We talked about the sea...our families...the war which brought us to each other. And then...as we sat huddled together against the cool breeze off the water...we expressed our mutual feelings for each other. And we shared soft...passionate kisses. Now...I have been attracted to other women before but with Ferrit...it is different. I...am in love with Ferrit. Strange time for Ilsare to bless me with Ferrit. But who am I to question it?
Ferrit started to feel a little guilty about sneaking off on Roxx to steal some time together with me and we returned to the house...after one final kiss. Her kisses make me feel like my heart is on fire. A fire that will not be quenched. Thank Ilsare for her.
I needed to head to my room in Harmony Grove. I have some furniture to place there so I may have a place to call home. It needs a woman's touch. Ferrit will just have to pay a visit...
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Theft at the house...
Someone has been going into the rooms at the house in Leilon. This has everyone a little on edge. That one of us is stealing from the others is unthinkable. Who among us would want to steal when it would be given to them?
But Ferrit...thinking they are suspecting her...has run off. Cleared out her room at the Leilon Arms and left. I tried to follow her...but she is too quick. Dear Ilsare...I need to find her...tell her that no one thinks she did it. It is tearing me up inside.
I care deeply for her...I don't want to lose her...
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This has been a special day...
All is well now with Ferrit and the group. She now knows that she didn't steal anything and is back in the group. It was all a big misunderstanding. And Ferrit is relieved. I am too.
The Leilon Arms was slow tonight. No...not slow...deserted was more like it. Some Mistone Alliance guards were there taking donations for the war effort against Bloodstone. I gave them an old copper half plate I wasn't using along with a couple of daggers. But...you know...those Alliance guys gave me the creeps. Guess that's why the Arms was empty tonight. They scared the customers off.
So...Ferrit and I went to the group house across the street. We had a little party of our own...after bathing to get the smell of stink bugs off of us. I fed the jukebox and we held each other close as we danced around the common room...sharing more soft kisses. She is very light on her feet. I cherish these moments alone with her. I am deleriously happy when I'm with her.
She was getting sleepy...from all that Ear Pilsner and some stuff called Jumpin Juniper Bock we were drinking. I would have gone to my place in Harmony Grove...but Ferrit didn't want me to travel the High Forest alone...so we spent the night in her room at the Leilon Arms. She is so beautiful...and she is so soft lying in my arms...
I love this woman...dear Ilsare...how I love this woman...
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A not so perfect foray...
I seem to be known around here. A fellow named Glenn Thendor met Ferrit and I outside the Craft House in Hlint. After being introduced by Ferrit...Glenn says..."Oh...your that Kyle...". That Kyle...wonder what that means. I half-jokingly said..."Good things were said about me I hope..." and he said that at least nothing bad was said about me. Hmmm...that has got me thinking too.
Then the group...no...the family as Talon calls us went on a not so merry trudge around Mistone last night. Just to hunt and a little gathering of things. But...it wasn't like the last time. Trying to get through the Fens near Port Hampshire...I fell along with my beloved Ferrit, Ash Willo and Roxx. My death was partially my fault becuse I didn't see the Lizards guarding Roxx's death sight so I fell in a hail of arrows. Last thing I heard before going to the void was Daemon say something about being foolhardy. I don't think I like him.
And from what Ferrit told me...no one was watching her back as she was looting the corpses and was killed too. Then Ash fell. And Ferrit fell again trying to get back by the claws of a griffon. We were able to recover our bodies. But death took a toll...not just our bodies...but all the gold coin collected was gone too.
Talon blamed herself for the whole mess. I tried to tell her that...at least in my case...that I bear some responsibility for the deaths...but she would have none of it. Now...she will not go until the last one of us has left the area. We call it a hard lesson learned.
Azaria wanted to talk to Ferrit. Ferrit is a little anxious...and I am as well. But...it is probably nothing anyway....
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I am afraid...
Ferrit fell on Dregar and was visited by the Soul Mother. This has gotten me anxious and afraid for her. I...don't know what I'd do if the time came that the Soul Mother keeps her from me. To find love and to lose it...I don't think I could handle it. I love Ferrit so.
Bopthor's wake was small. Not as many showed as at Ayla's. But his closest friends were in attendance remembering what a fine man Bopthor was. From the stories Roxx told me before passing out...I wish I had met him...I would have liked him. And Roxx said he would have like me as well.
I must go...I feel I must be with my love...lest the Soul Mother finds her again...
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I hurt Azaria yesterday...
I didn't mean to. It was just that while we were on a hunt...I had said that Ferrit should loot the corpses. But Azaria was already doing that and made the comment that maybe that I didn't trust her. I do trust Azaria...it's just I am used to seeing Ferrit loot that I said that. Azaria wouldn't talk to me for a while. I could see that I hurt her.
So back in Hlint...I took her aside and apologized for making her feel that I didn't trust her. I think that made her feel better because we hugged for a moment before going back to the group.
They were planning a trip to Dregar again but I was feeling a little piqued...so I stayed behind. Ferrit went on though and upon her return...she wasn't feeling too well either. She is resting in her room a few days as I drop in every now and then. I hope she feels better.
Talon wants to see me. Why...I don't know. Probably to tell me what went on in Dregar...
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It was just a key...
Talon had changed the lock on the house in Leilon. I found out the hard way by breaking the old key trying to get in. Seems that she doesn't trust Zandor Glowingaxe anymore and needs to keep him out. I never had a problem with him. But I think Talon released him from service. It's her call...
Ferrit is feeling a bit better. I see her trying to keep busy in the craft house in Hlint or down in Haven feeding the chickens. But she is still a little wobbly on her feet...and needs me to lean on to get her back to bed. Not that I mind...I love it when she snuggles up to me. Her skin feels so soft when I hold her close.
She still has to take it easy. At least for the next couple of days.
71 bags of sand delivered to the house. 89 more bags to go. I need a break. The Leilon Arms is open tonight...and I'll be close to Ferrit too....
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Now we know who the thieves at Harmony Grove are...
Not exactly thieves...just some mischeivous brownies 'borrowing' our unused items. Nothing we could do about it. Just as long as they don't wreck the place and return what they borrow...I have no problem with it. Guess this let's Zandor off the hook.
Azaria is moody lately. It seems that she is having a crisis of faith about her god Goran. She doesn't think it is right to craft golems as slaves. I don't know what to say to that. I did tell her that if she ever want someone to let her vent some frustrations...to talk to someone about her thoughts...I would listen to her. She is a good friend.
I asked Talia to make a dress for Ferrit. Something I hope Ferrit likes. It will be a surprise once she is back on her feet again. It is very lonely without her. Maybe when she gets better we could take some time for ourselves alone. Maybe our spot at Lake Palden. That is always a peaceful place to go. To look at her with the reflected light off the lake in her eyes...it just makes me love her more.
Not only the dress...but I made my first bronze weapon...a dagger. Not as big as her rapier...but she is always complaining about the copper weapon she has. Too flimsy...she said. Now she has a better grade of weapon to use. And it's my first...crafted by my hand. That is what makes it special.
I need to go make little rocks from big ones...need to start practicing my crafting...
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Alnusa is one of a kind...
He was playing with...what was his name...Vergath's...companion panther last night. He had been down for a while...but playing with Pandora...that's the big cat's name...made his face light up like a bright sunny day. He is still wondering what life's all about...but at least for a few moments...he didn't care. He was happy. And the happiness was catching...I couldn't stop smiling.
I mined some more in the Seilwood and found not one...but two sapphires!! An extremely lucky find for me. Ferrit will most definitely want these. I'll surprise her with these along with the dress that Talia is making for her. I can't wait to see her face.
I was practicing my striking forms today. I am getting a little rusty. Need to learn the next series of strikes to be more effective. I need a trainer...
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A dear friend was taken by the Soul Mother...
Roxx Cloudwalker...the sweetest half-giant there ever was. I will miss the big lug. Alnusa and Talia were hit the hardest. Especially Talia. She was beside herself and was shocked when I gave her a consoling hug. We all drank to Roxx in Harmony Grove and got a bit drunk. Azaria and Talia went off somewhere and I put a very drunk Alnusa to bed. I however....couldn't sleep. I walked back down to hlint to hit some metal. I wish it was whatever killed Roxx.
Ferrit is back on her feet again. And earlier that day...we had a semi-successful mining run in the Sielwood. Semi-successful because I fell once to a Kobold shaman's evil magic. But I avoided the Soul Mother again...and recoverd my spirit. Ferrit was sorry she couldn't save me...but that wasn't her fault. No harm done.
Ferrit...
Imagine that...there were a lot of beautiful and eligible women back on Vanavar...but it took a war and a dragon to bring me to the one I love. And I do love Ferrit. More that anyone could love someone. I can't imagine a life without her. And...I know what I must do to keep it that way...
-
This was a strange but wonderful day...
First the strange...
A man needed an escort for his brother Joseph to the Barbarian Isles. But this man was killed by gypsies in a cave not to far from the port. It also appears that his brother had set him up. Joseph was killed the second he entered the cave. His daughter was abducted...but after Joseph was killed they released her. They wanted a ransom and I believe that Joseph's own life was it. We need to look into this further.
Now the wonderful...
Ferrit and I were in the Craft House in Hlint. She was working on making bandages for when we go a hunting and gathering. And with all the souls that never returned...I finally got the nerve. I proposed to Ferrit right there in the Craft House. Gave her the first and probably the only ring I'll ever make as I dropped to bended knee. Imagine the joy my heart felt when I heard the words..."Oh...Kyle...Yes...I will!!!" The tears started flowing as I said I will be her family now. And that not even the gods would separate us. But we need to build up some coin first. The diamond I found should fetch a nice price at market. Would have rather it be Ferrit's wedding ring...but she agrees that we need to get on our feet first.
I love her...and we will live a long and loving life together...with Ilsare's blessing...
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Another victim of the Soul Mother...
Shelu U'alarune....one of the very first people I set eyes on when I first got here has been taken by the Soul Mother. She too was to be married in a couple of days to Barion. He has disapeared. I hope he dosen't do anything rash. Shelu was a kind and gentle soul and will be missed. Why is it always the good and kind people who fall to the witch? First Ayla...now Shelu. It put Ferrit in a panic about our own wedding...since we have become engaged. I held her close and told her that we will be married...we will grow old together...and we would defy the witch doing it. It put Ferrit in a better frame of mind. We have yet to set a date for ourselves. We should set it soon.
And I learned something about Ferrit. Something she felt ashamed of. She isn't a maiden. She thought that it would have made a difference...but not to me. I didn't care if she wasn't...and I don't. She also told me it wasn't with consent. She fears that it would hurt if we were to lie together. But I would not hurt her like that. I would be loving and tender. She would not be hurt ever again. This I promise...may the Soul Mother take me if I ever hurt her in that manner...
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This is madness...
But it is a sweet madness. Ferrit wants to elope. Just find a cleric...exchange vows of love...rings and just slip away for a while. It is impetuous...it is crazy...it is...perfect. I mean...it isn't like we have anyone we'd consider a close friend. The closest ones were those who have betrayed us. I will not even speak their names anymore. They are not worthy to share in a special time in our lives. Maybe we can invite Sen Stranzini. He's a good man. He is closer than most. I'll ask Ferrit.
I never thought life would turn out this way. I would be an Elite Guard of North Hampshire...find a wife...have a few children and settle down. Then that blasted dragon changed things. I would like to say I hate the dragon...but I can't bring myself to anymore. It is because of him that I found Ferrit. It was because of him that I found true happiness with her. The gods have a strange way of doing things.
Now for some dire news...
There is always a down side to every good news. The town of Stone on Rilara has fallen to Blood's forces. Sacked totally I hear. Now he draws ever closer to Mistone. Something must be done to halt their advance. I fear I'm not nearly trained adequately enough to attack such a foe. And I have Ferrit to think about.
We must elope soon...
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A horrible thing happened today...
Ferrit was hunting for silk in the Sielwood today...and she fell to the foul bugs. And...*tear stain*...the Soul Mother paid her a visit. That's twice now. And I curse myself for not being there for her. I may have saved her from that. I will not lose her...I can't.
We camped out near the Seilwood after returning with some ore. It was a way to put the Soul Mother out of our minds and that was the only way I knew how. We sat by the fire watching the setting sun turn the sky crimson...and I gave her the ring Zandor had sold me. She was surprised and pleased and kissed me...and she let the kiss linger. I guess it was the brush with the Soul Mother because as we held each other close...we expressed our love for each other. And as she lay sleeping in my arms...I swore to myself that she will not fall again while I'm with her. We must get married soon. And I...must find a mentor. I must be able to protect the woman I love.
The Soul Mother be damned...
-
I must have angered a god or two...
Don't know how...but I have had a terrible run of luck. I went to the Seilwood to mine some more...and lost two oxen in there. One to the kobolds and one to a couple of Goblins who wandered near. This is after breaking four picks on the vein and losing my prized weapon...my Iron Katana striking the vein while switching to it when those blasted kobolds attacked yet again. It was unbelievable. I had to crawl back to Hlint to smelt the ore to make a bronze katana as a replacement.
Maybe I angered Ilsare...I did leave Ferrit in Port Hampshire to take care of the chicken there so I could get the ore. She said she would have come but she was tired and would rest in Port Hampshire. Maybe I should have stayed with her...I love her and I cherish the time I spend with her. Maybe I will stay with her more from now on.
Maybe Ilsare is telling me to get with it...
I also need to get with finding a trainer...with Blood's forces near...I must get ready. Or there won't be a life together with Ferrit...
-
Errands...errands...errands...
Warrant Officer Kat in Haven needs weapons...so I have been running around Mistone getting them for her. Why are these people in charge of garrisons if they don't have weapons for the troops? Oh...well...4 more weapons to go.
Ferrit and I plan on a Satari evening wedding. Nothing extravagant...maybe just the woods...some food and cheap drinks and our friends. It cannot come soon enough. I'm about ready to burst...
I can smelt Iron now. I need to catch up on my weapon crafting to be able to work it. I got the iron from a very successful foray into the Haven Mine. Somehow...we found new veins of iron one level higher than normal. Fortunate for us...we didn't have to deal with the Ogre Mages on the bottom level.
Oh...well...Kat needs a copper mace now...
-
I am upset...
Last night...I went with a large group to the Grey Peaks to one...get Ash to her grave...and two try to get the Oil of Vukas for Juanita in Fort Llast. The first thing was made moot as Ash's spirit and body re-united in Hlint. I...didn't wish to risk anyone's life for a flask of oil...but I was talked into it by Zandor and Victor.
We took along two women that I am not too comfortable around. Cassandra Demonsbane and Chandra. They are powerful...and I sense a cruel streak in them. We get deep into the Greys when Ogre Mages took down Zandor and Victor..our two most powerful front liners. The two women...one of whom was supposed to be a cleric...did nothing to help them. They laughed at their fallen bodies. I barely said two words to anyone...including Ferrit...all the way back to Fort Llast.
Another detour...Cassandra and Chandra wanted to go into Storan's Crypt. I was uncomfortable with them before...and more so in the crypt. We got locked in with Shadows and a Bodak. And I got no help from them until I slew the bodak for them...almost dying in the meantime. Good thing Vestlyn...the priest of Ilsare who will marry Ferrit and I...cast a ward to protect me from the Bodak or...
I will not travel with either Cassandra or Chandra again if I can help it. And Ferrit agreed. She said that Cassandra had changed...why who knows. Ferrit needed to relax...her shoulders were so knotted and tight that we went to Aerdin's Grove to relax by the fire.
As I rubbed her shoulders...we talked about our wedding...about how upset I was that Zandor and Victor had fallen needlessly...but Ferrit just hugged me and said that it comes with the territory. It was little comfort...but with Ferrit in my arms...I became less upset. We drifted off to sleep after sharing tender kisses. I guess we were more tired than we realized. And I cherish these tender moments we have.
Tomorrow is starting to look better already...
-
I finally heard from home...
And it comes in the person of my half-brother Marcus Canterus. I haven't seen him since I left to train with Cardiana. It seems the dragon was not content with just me...so he takes him as well. Still...I am happy to see him. He said everyone misses me since I disappeared and that they haven't given up hope of seeing me again. Now they will worry for two of us.
He met Ferrit and is pleased that we will be married soon. We taught him how to fish and I hope to see more of him...it is good to have family around.
But...I wonder if he still has his 'blackouts'? That cruel streak he exhibits when he is under stress. I will have to tell Ferrit about that. She needs to be prepared.
I hope she understands...
-
3 weeks...
That is what we decided on. Three weeks to get married. It seems like an eternity...but we will finally do it. Whether it will be in Leilon or Club Llast...it makes no difference. I would marry her anywhere. I love her so much.
And the best thing is...Marcus is here. My brother. Family. Here to witness the start of another family. Mine and Ferrit's. Ilsare is certainly smiling at us.
We helped Marcus recover Ragrian's necklace again. She has got to learn to keep it under wraps. The strange thing was that not one but five Gel Cubes attacked us in the cave. I must report this to the authorities.
We mined some copper and I will smelt it as soon as I can. I want to give Marcus some more crossbow bolts.
But enough of this...Ferrit and I will be married in three weeks...got to start planning...
-
It will probably be an outdoor ceremony...
Silool hasn't been heard from in days now...and I'm chomping at the bit. I want to be Ferrit's husband so much it is driving me crazy. We decided to take matters into our own hands. We may get married by the waterfall near Blackford Castle. It is a romantic and peaceful area. It will do. All that remains is getting Vestlyn to do the ceremony. And the food...and the drinks. I have to do a lot of fishing...
Ferrit and I will be together always...this I promised her at the waterfall. Not the war...not illness...nothing will keep us apart. At least not for long. Ilsare willing...we will grow old together and will watch our children grow.
That is a life worth fighting for...
-
Well...we're just about set for the wedding...
I have plenty of fish...Ferrit made plenty of refreshments...Now...just to get some booze and get everyone to Blackford Castle...
But it was a hard day's work. We almost fell to an overgrown buzzard on Rilara. I need to hone my skills with the katana. Must find me a master who would train me. I couldn't injured the fat overgrown pidgeon of a griffon enough. We nearly perished together there. But Ilsare must have blessed us...we were only knocked unconscious but very bloodied. We picked ourselves up...and healed ourselves at Lake Rillon. Took all we had in healing supplies to do it.
I haven't seen Marcus in a while...hope no evil has befallen him. I must tell Ferrit about him. Maybe tomorrow...
-
I told Ferrit about Marcus...
She likes him and that is good. It also meant the time was right. I told her of his Drow heritage...of how our mother was abducted by Dark Elf slavers and violated repeatedly begetting Marcus. I told of how our mother tried her best to shield him from their influence. And that for 1 1/2 years (according to mother) he was happy. Then I told her of how Marcus was taken by his father after a party of rescuers freed our mother. And that for 5 years...we never seen or heard from Marcus. I don't know what went on then...but with the Dark Elves...
Then I told Ferrit of the day that the Captain of the North Hampshire guard...Cardiana's father...rescued Marcus and re-united him with us. He was raised with us since then..until the dragon changed that.
But he still shows that cruel streak at times. I must stay on top of it...I always had a calming effect on him. This I also told Ferrit. And she said she understands!! I am truly blessed with a wonderful woman.
I cannot wait until we are married...
-
I finally met Jet...
But unfortunately he is not taking on apprentices right now. In the future he might...and I am free to join him on any ventures he may be going on. I will take him up on that.
And with good reason. Ferrit, Marcus and I went to Rilara to deliver a package to Fort Himlad. The cow herder had lost his cow again and we went to find her. It was the worst day of my life. A griffon...a huge griffon took Ferrit from me. I tried my best to save her...but the *Elven expletive* buzzard felled her in one stroke. After ridding the bird of its life...I sat at the stone and cried...praying the Soul Mother would leave her be. My heart leapt for joy when Ferrit reclaimed her body and said the Soul Mother wasn't interested in her this day.
Still...due to my lack of training...I watched the woman I love...the woman I will marry...fall to a dumb bird. Never again. I will train hard while I'm with Jet. My love...my life...depends on me...
-
Only one more day...
And tonight...I will be lonely. It is considered bad luck to see the bride before the wedding. So I must be without Ferrit for the first time since we became engaged. Sleep well...my love. For tomorrow we will be together always.
I made two more iron daggers to sell at Leilon. Also bought Iron Half Plate from Katrien Hommel. I will sell the Iron Chain Mail to recoup the price of the Half Plate. And it needs a dye job...a little too...white for me. But it is a fine set of armor. I'm glad I bought it.
Ash finished Ferrit's wedding dress and now I wait for Vestlyn to finish my suit. He will have to show me tomorrow morning. It was looking good I must say. And I can't wait to see Ferrit in her dress. Ash assures me it will take my breath away. As if that would be hard to do. Ferrit always takes my breath away.
Not much to do now but wait. It will be a long day tomorrow...
-
This is a day of celebration....
First the big news of my life...
Ferrit and I are now Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Pandorn. It was a small but nice ceremony...topped off by the fact that my brother Marcus got to be Best Man because Zandor didn't make it. I'm sure Zandor had a very good reason to stand us up. Vestlyn did a fine job in presiding over things and I think he was more nervous than either Ferrit or myself. After the ceremony...Ferrit and I stole away to Lake Palden...where we had our first wonderful night as husband and wife. And Ilsare willing...there will be many many more.
And better general news...
General...appropriate word. The word is that one of Blood's generals...Xandrial...has been defeated!!! A major victory in this infernal war with Blood. This weakens Blood's forces and turns the tide of the war in our favor. But...we cannot rest on this one victory. I must still train hard...Blood is still out there...and has a few more generals under his command. He certainly will not be delayed for long.
And now...I train not only to be prepared for that...but I train for my wife...I train for Ferrit. Time to seek out Jet and travel with him...
-
Ok...I have potential...
Ferrit bade me ask Derrick Loadson about Weapons training. He is a Master...I'm told...and I need a trainer. He tested me...and took me to kill some mercs near Haven. 'Ya show potential lad....' he smirks at me...'but ya need a little more practice...and gather ye wits some more. See me when you have done that.' So...I practice some more.
But...Derrick gives me a feeling of uneasiness. But...I must do this so that I can protect those I've come to call friends. And protect the one I love...Ferrit.
-
Ozy is sure the flamboyant one...
Last night...he told us of the heroes who defeated Xandrial and turned the tide of the war a bit in favor of the world. It was filled with colorful descriptions and embellishments...but that's what bards do. It gave everyone there a sense of hope...and that's what everyone needed right about then.
Some fool the other day...lead the mercs who hang out near Hlint into town and near the Craft House where he killed Ferrit's ox. We lost everything that was on it. Everything. Fool. Now we must start over again. Ferrit was saddend almost to tears. All the hard work she put in...gone. It took some affectionate consoling from me to lighten her mood. I hate to see tears in her eyes.
We went to Haven to get iron and hunt some ogres. We went a little further than usual with 'Wolf' Williams and a follower of Aerdin...Thalis. Bad move. We got ambushed by Ogre Berserkers and Wolf...Thalis and I fell. I slowed them down to allow my Ferrit to escape. That's when a Beresker took me down. Thank the gods Barion was around to help us get to our stones. And thank the gods the Soul Mother doesn't seem to be interested in anyone right now.
Barion...
He had broken up with Ash. That is a shame...I had thought they were getting along so well...Barion was so happy. I feel for the man. I will say a special prayer for my friend...that Ilsare's light will finally shine in his heart and he finds the love he seeks. As I have found with Ferrit.
I must warn people of Aerdin's Grove. I went there for healing and I found the Healer beinfg attacked by two werewolves and a Render beast. I lended aid as best I could falling to the Render as I did. Ever since Xandrial's defeat...strange things have been occuring.
It is different time we now live in I fear...
-
Ferrit and I are quite a team...
Not just because we are spouses...but we can now get to the iron in the Haven Mines with just the two of us. She is the bait and lures the ogres one at a time to my waiting katana and death by her arrows. I think we fell only once since using this tactic...and my weaponscraft is now starting to move along again.
Marcus has been conspicuously missing. Haven't seen him since our wedding. I hope he is alright. I miss him as does Ferrit.
We went along with Reventage D'Vinn to deliver the amulet to the Shifter. Now there is an empty stone in it that needs a soul. A soul that the Shifter says is here. We don't know exactly whose soul it is...we'll just have to wait and see...
Roldem is being re-taken according to Victor Firefall. The rebuilding could take a long time...but now things are starting to go our way. With Ilsare's blessing we can hope it continues.
I must go...I need to practice with my katana some more...
-
If anyone would doubt the power of love...come speak with me...
Ferrit and I were returning to Hlint after gathering skins...to hear the sounds of battle coming from INSIDE Hlint. Demons were attacking and the people inside were defending the town. Naturally...Ferrit and I joined the fray. We were doing well...until this one demon wench came through and cut down everyone who stood in her path. My katana couldn't even scratch her. Then...everything went dark...
I was floating in a vast emptiness...an emptiness that was cold and lifeless...when I heard a voice. It was a voice of sorrow and anguish. It was that of my Ferrit...crying and praying over my fallen body. Praying with all her being that Ilsare would return me to her. The love in her heart must have stirred Ilsare because I started to move towards her...to the sound of Ferrit's voice...
And then...I was standing next to my beloved Ferrit. She said that the Healer from Ilsare's temple brought me back. But...I beg to differ. Ilsare had heard her loving cry...felt the love that we have for each other and brought me back to her. Ferrit was so overjoyed that we spent the rest of the night in each other's arms. I will never leave her.
Not even a demon could keep us apart...
-
We are starting to test ourselves...
Because I need oak to make a quarterstaff for one Alynderil Wilsomin. There are 2 places I know of where oak trees grow. The Broken Forest where the undead wander...and The High Forest which are swarming with spiders. Ferrit wanted to try the spiders rather than the undead. Not too successful. We fell twice to the bugs.
We fared better against the undead. We got a little beat up...but at least we could out run them. I cut some oak and had little success in making the staff.
Another trip will be necessary to get more oak. The undead are decicedly easier than the spiders...
-
The practice is paying off...
We needed some more iron. Ferrit and I met up with Michel Mordecai and a man named Asher in the Haven Mines. We traveled to the lowest levels to mine iron and platinum and coal. In one of the battles with the ogres...I managed to knock one off balance. He didn't fall...but it was enough to get a killer blow in. Seems my blows are becoming harder. Just the kind of thing a Master should have.
I also had some success in making oak quarterstaves. Made 3 of them. Now if only Alynderil Wilsomin will answer my post so I may sell him one. But I haven't seen him since he commissioned me to make it for him. Someone will buy it...I'm sure.
The Weave burped...
And we lost all we made. Everything. The iron daggers...the armor...Ferrit's fine leather armors. That's what prompted the trip to Haven. And a trip to Port Hampshire and Fort Velensk. I lost the nice iron scimitar I had forged and hoped to sell. I'll need to make another. Good thing the quarterstaves survived it.
Oh well...back to the drawing board...
-
I made a replacement scimitar of iron...
Which I immediately sold to Ash. It was my first sale since I sold Jako Stonehill a bronze katana. Gave Ash the scimitar for half price. She is a friend after all. But there is something bothering her. Something she is reluctant to tell me. All she would say is that it involves a friend of mine. I wonder who it is. I told her that if she ever wanted to talk...to bend an ear...that Ferrit and I would listen to her. We consider Ash to be a friend...and Ilsare demands that we help a friend.
My smelting skill is becoming greater and greater. Iron is becoming easier to manage now. Gold is next....but I will wait until I can make weapons and armor out of iron first. I don't know where to find gold...so it would be smart to stick to iron than risk getting something I can't work with yet.
Maybe the Weave will behave from now on...
-
Ferrit and I threw caution to the wind today...
We went exploring Rilara. Just to see what was out there. And it was a facinating and productive trip. We found leopards for Ferrit to skin...a hill hound which we skinned...and gold!! But I paid a price for that gold. The leader of some bandits...a tough cuss...took me down there. Luckily...I returned the favor...reclaimed my body...and got rid of the bandits and mined the gold in thier lair. And...it takes 2 nuggets of gold to make one ingot. I definitely need to work iron more and get more skilled so I can take care of the bandit's next leader.
But the trip was worthwhile. As long as my beloved Ferrit is at my side. It is so that I can't imagine her not being at my side. And I will never be anywhere else...
-
We now have a place to call home....
Lia Di'Makiir was kind enough to rent Ferrit and me a room in her house in Krandor. We received a discounted rent provided we cook the meals for her. A bargain to say the least. It is a huge room. Ferrit and I...though we enjoyed sleeping under the stars...need a roof over our heads and a place to keep our belongings. And now we have one. A home of our own...
Home...never thought I would call anywhere but Vanavar home. I thought I was set in North Hampshire. I would inherit the family house and live there till I die. But fate...and Ilsare had other plans. Now...my home is with Ferrit...and I am happy that it turned out this way. Ilsare willing...I will grow old here with my beloved Ferrit by my side and watch our children and grandchildren grow here. It is a wonderful feeling.
And now...I train even harder. To protect the place I now call home...
-
Armorcrafting is getting easier...
Or I'm just extremely lucky. I made an Iron Kite Shield today. Such a good job too. The extra protection it provides is a blessing. Now...if I can only make that plate armor for Jako..I'll be happy.
Ferrit is spending more time in Krandor...figuring out what we need for furniture. I also replaced the oak bow she broke in battle. It was amazing how the shaft of her old bow just snapped in two. Must have been weakened by use...the wood just wore out. She was happy when I was able to give her another one. It gladdens my heart to be able to make her happy.
And I found out something about Krandor. The crypts there are crawling with powerful undead that sometimes encroach the streets. Wonderful. At least the dogs keep them penned up in there.
Well...time to go out behind the house and practice my katana strikes. I feel I'm getting stronger every day. Hmmmm...maybe I'll grab a priest and see about the crypts. Nah...from what Ferrit and Ash tell me...it would be suicide. I'll just practice my sword katas for now...
-
If there is one thing I cannot stand is a waste of time...
I found Brendan Raign wandering around Hlint as a spirit. He had fallen in the second level of the Haven Mines and asked Ferrit and me for help. Being the helpful souls we are...we went. I needed some iron anyway...and Ferrit and I can get to the second level by ourselves so getting Brendan to his stone would be easy.
Yeah...right. We get to the mine only to be talked into going to the third level by Curtis Simon Orcult...Justain Leonar...and a few others. This little foray got Brendan killed on the third level this time. This after just recovering his stone. A wasted trip since I couldn't mine much iron due to the constant attacks by the ogres. We burned through most of our healing supplies trying to get back out to Haven itself.
Brendan is a likable guy...but I think I'll talk him into resting his way back to wholeness. He will certainly catch the attention of the Soul Mother if he keeps this up...
-
Today has been quite eventful...
Ayla Bineau asked for my help today.She needed bodak's teeth for potions and she wanted to go into Storan's Crypt to get them. Now...if it were anyone else but her...and maybe Ferrit and Ash...I wouldn't go near Storan's. But Ayla is a good friend and she can cast wards to protect us so we went...bringing Wolf Williams and this other man whose name escapes me for the moment. It didn't go well at all. Sure...the ward protected me from the death gaze of the bodaks...but the rest of the undead overwhelmed us and Ayla, Wolf and I fell. Not even the new electrical enchanment on my blade could kill them quickly enough. We recovered our graves and abandoned the errand for now.
Ayla and I then went to Pranzis for a meeting. This was to learn of the progress of the search for the soul to put in the gem that we showed the Shifter a while back. It turns out they found the soul of a benevolent lich and he willingly went into the gem. We also learned that there is another soul in a gem. And there is a third gem and soul yet to be found. I could be wrong but my understanding is that only one of the 3 souls can be put into the sword and that will determine the moral bent of the sword.
We also heard of a ship. A ship that was carrying the third gem. It went down near the other end of Roldem. All that was recovered was a mirror that is believed to point out the real location of the gem. It still leaves the question of which soul will be used in the Shadow Blade.
Who is to determine that? Who has the wisdom to make such a decision? And who would give up his or her soul willingly when it means certain death for them?
I pray that we can come up with the right course of action...
-
We met a very nice half-orc monk...
Honora is her name. She is very outgoing...friendly...and good at bare-handed fighting. Even better at it now that Ferrit gave her some lion skin gloves to wear. We like Honora. We will travel with her a lot.
The marriage certificate came finally...
And there it is in black and white. Kyle and Ferrit Pandorn. Has a nice sound to it if I do say so. Ferrit went around all day testing it out. It made me smile to hear her say it over and over and over again. And it's a gift that only I could have given her. My family name. A family...period. Maybe someday...we will go back to Vanavar so Ferrit can meet her new family. It would be wonderful.
Lia needs bronze...
Lots of it. 44 ingots to be exact. It will be no problem getting the bronze....but what in Mistone does she want with that much bronze? Anyway...it should be able to pay for a few months rent on the room with some left over for us.
Better get cracking...
-
I hope this was worth it...
Xora got a hold of a gem that is of better quality than the one holding the soul. And needed to get to Silden in Roldem to make the transfer. This place was supposed to be the weakest spot between the planes...according to Ozy...so we set out for it.
Seems that we weren't the only ones interested in the soul. An army of demons attacked us and attempted to disrupt the ritual. We fought hard...but they were overwhelming for Jako and me. We fell to the demons onslaught. This is after Vin Oxyshade cut the rope keeping the demons...and us...from disturbing the ritual. Only Ilsare's love and grace...and Quantum Windward...brought me back. Ayla Bineau said the transfer was a total success...that our falling was not in vain.
I sure hope she is right...
-
Rings...
That's what Lia needed the bronze for. So I sold the whole lot to her for 5000 gold coins. Lia was surprised that I was able to make all the bronze so quickly. And happy...she was literally humming as she made her way to the portal to Hlint and the crafting house. I'll never understand the mind of a mage...
I must get back to practicing my katana strikes...It won't be too long until Derrick will consider training me. I don't feel as uneasy as I did...because Ireth Telrunya told me that Jet was trained by Derrick and that I would do well to have him as a mentor.
I do hope that she is right in her assessment....
-
We need a couple days off...
I wasn't keeping a good enough eye on my ox and it got killed in the Haven Mines. It decided to go up against the ogres and was quickly sent to the big pasture in the sky. Lost all the iron I mined plus a bronze half plate...3 iron daggers and an iron large shield. Must have been all the fights with the ogres over the last few days...because I have been getting very absentminded lately. Maybe some rest and relaxation with Ferrit in my arms will straighten me out. Anyway...I did manage to pull 9 nuggets out of there...and now iron is just as easy to smelt as copper and bronze.
I do love to make Ferrit smile...
There is a florist in Fort Hope now...and I couldn't resist buying a bouquet of roses for her. The brightness of her smile and warmth of her embrace was worth the trip. Now...if I could just get platinum for her compound shortbow...that would really make her day. It is to be a birthday present for her...but she doesn't know when that is...so it is for whenever it happens to be.
There must be a way to find out when it is...
Well...we're off for a couple of days...some down time for just the two of us is long overdue...
-
Murder in Leilon...
Some poor sod was murdered in Leilon today. The strange thing about this was that his eyes were sewn shut and his heart was removed...by someone with some skill. The search took me...Ireth...Pendar...Ellan...Supin...and a few others to the shop of this shoemaker Tomas and his brother...a cleric of Pendar's order. The brother was...afraid to talk in front of Tomas...and with good reason. Appears that Tomas read a tome that made him possessed...or obsessed with prolonging life. And if Tomas were to find out that he talked...he fears that he would be killed as well. The brother suggested that a tome buried within the Krandor Crypts holds a ritual that will put Tomas right. It takes us practically to my backyard.
Well...at least I won't have too far to go should I need to rest...
-
I forgot to tell of a halfling that I like....
His name is Berriford. Berri for short. He wants to be a warrior...but he seems to be...reluctant. But once he gets going...I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of those kukuri he wields. He needs a confidence boost. He helped Ferrit and I mine some copper for Ferrit and I made a pair of bronze kukuri for him.
But...I wish he would call me Kyle instead of Mr. Pandorn. It makes me feel old....
-
Kyle is outside the house in Krandor. His face is a picture of concentration as he practices his attack and defensive stances with his katana. He stops for a moment to write.
Wolf Williams told me something of himself today...
He is an outcast from his family. In fact...they sent someone to kill him!!! Seems that his family doesn't care much for those outside their family...and anyone who mingles with an 'outsider' is either killed...or 'purified' by the family. Wolf's father was killed becuase he dared to love an elf woman who was Wolf's mother and they tried to 'purify' Wolf by torture. Wolf somehow got away from them...but still they persue him.
Wolf...myself...Ireth...Ferrit...and Zan went to Rilara...to the place of Wolf's family where we learned that a man named Flagg is exerting an influence over the Williams family. An evil twisted influence since none of the Williams clan are allowed to mingle with anyone but family. Such an abomination!!! We now await to see what this Flagg is all about.
I find myself thinking about my family. They are the very opposite of the Williams clan. I have no doubt that they will adore Ferrit...if and when we go back to Vanavar. They will love her for who she is. As I love her.
The Williams clan believes to love someone outside the family...especially one of another race...is to taint the blood of the family. They are already tainted. Tainted by racism and possibly by an evil influence. A taint that will be hard to cleanse.
Kyle puts down the quill and returns to his practice...
-
We did battle for Stone...
A group of 30 of us went to retake Stone from Blood's forces. Now...you ask...what can a group of 30 do against an army entrenched in a fortified town? Give them a bloody nose...that's what. The battle started in the Belager Hills near Stone. We took out a scouting party of Dwarf Mercs and Black Rain Archers. That was the first strike in what the bards will tell as the Battle for Stone. We were enhanced to the hilt by the mages and clerics we had on hand and we battled all the way to Stone itself. My arrows were finding their mark softening them up for the fighters who were better trained than I. I did use my katana if a fool merc got close enough. But for the most part...I just rained arrows at the enemy.
When we got to Stone...we found it to be heavily guarded by all sorts of demons...the toughest being Defender Balors from Milara. A few fell to them as we fought them with everything we could muster. And we prevailed!!! We raised the fallen and looked around.
Then we saw the devastation. The town was completely in ruins. Totally razed to the ground. And the bodies of those who tried to defend their homes...crucified for all to see. It was the most horrible sight I have ever witnessed. Then...there was the temple. And sounds of desperation. We cleared the debris from the entrance to find 20 or so gnomes...cold...frightened and starving. With the sounds of reinforcements approaching...we quickly lead the gnomes away from Stone to safety in Point Harbor.
Now...some say that we did battle for nothing. That since we let reinforcements come...the town wasn't liberated. I know of 20 or so gnomes who would disagree. We saved them from a horrible fate. So...in a manner of speaking...we did liberate Stone. And we put fear into Blood's troops. That such a small force could be so bold as to attack a stronghold of their's and come out of it successfully...it will make them take notice.
But now...they will be on their guard. The generals will not be pleased.
And there will be hell to pay...
-
Zandor is on a quest for knowledge...
Knowledge of the Elven language. And he has asked me to teach him. Now...that is a sight...a human teaching a dwarf the Elven tongue. Everyone back home would die laughing at the sight.
But...he does have an aptitude for it...and we now can carry a simple conversation. Even if it is the 'Hi...how are you?' kind. Zandor is an intelligent man. He will pick it up quickly.
I hope I pick up Dwarven as quickly...
-
Met some one new today...
Rhynn is her name. A mage who is friendly and helped Ferrit and I immensely today. Ferrit needed skullcaps today and we went into the swamps to get them. Ferrit usually goes alone and sneaks her way past the lizards...but today...she wanted me to come along. We met Rhynn on the way and talked her into going as well.
Good thing too...We fell to their poisoned arrows....Ferrit and I fell...but Rhynn was only knocked unconscious and was able to get out of there. She cast a masking spell on Ferrit and myself and we recovered our bodies. Such a gesture by Rhynn couldn't go unappreciated so I made her a set of hickory crossbow bolts as a gift. She is a very nice girl and we look forward to travelling with her again.
I've had this nasty cold for the last few days...the draught the healer in Hlint gave me lessens the effects...but I still need some rest.
With Ferrit to keep me warm in her arms I should feel better in no time...
-
I don't know what to say to Rhynn...
She told me a very disturbing story about herself. The Master...who I thought she idolized...is in fact a creep who had treated her poorly when she was staying with him. He told her some guff that it was her duties as an to him. He should be drawn and quartered and fed to the boars. Such a man does not deserve any respect as a Master of anything.
And...Rhynn seems to be taken by Ozy. Which can get deadly for her if she keeps it up. Ozy's fiance...Kea...almost killed her. Instead...she threw Rhynn into the pond and disappeared.
Rhynn is a sweet girl and I will keep and eye on her...
-
There is a terrible thing happening to the women in Hlint...
It seems a halfling demon named Anxiety is conscripting beautiful women to become his 'Riders' for some unknown purpose. He gives them horses to 'ride' that brings out certain emotions.
The first to be...violated...that's the only word I can think of...was Rhynn. She rides the horse named Anger. She can barely contain her anger. It takes a gentle voice by me and a calm steady hand to keep it under control. I'm just doing what a friend can do.
Then Ireth became a Rider. She rides Fear. She is...fearful of confrontaion now. Which is sad...because she is one of the bravest women I know.
Dorena Abianca rides Defiance. She will not agree on anytrhing...rather she becomes stubborn...and uncooperative.
AnnaLeMacGregger...she has Denial. She has become withdrawn and it takes great effort for her to speak.
And last is Addison Scarlace...Indulgence. I never met her before...but I hear she is a Weapons Master. Last night at the Arms...she overindugled in ale and food...much to the bewilderment of her love...Cole Norseman. I will have to tell him...he deserves to know. She above all should know the value of keeping her emotions in check.
I have been keeping an eye on them as best I can. Along with Ferrit and a few others. I have told the ladies that I will help them as best as I can to defeat the halfling and get their lives back.
But...I am at a loss to figure out how...As a friend to Rhynn and Ireth...I must find a way...
-
Seems I was totally wrong...
The halfling....though not totally innocent...is not our true enemy.The Guardian of the plane Pandemonium...Koralawyn...is. She is treating the horses badly and the halfling made the ladies Riders to try to protect them. Master Ozy said that she had come to power under less than honorable circumstances and Anxiety wishes to unseat her. So we hunt for information on her to defeat her. We need to walk the planes.
But there is another thing bothering me...The five ladies...they have expressed a desire to keep their horses. That they relieve their ills. And they say that the horses love them as much as they love the horses. I...won't stop them from keeping them...but I feel that it is wrong for them to be...bonded in this way. Rhynn says that while they are near...their emotions are kept in check...but when the horses are called back to Pandemonium...that's when the women start to lose their control.
What are they supposed to do? Stay in constant contact with them? How did they handle their emotions before the horses bonded with them? It doesn't sit right with me.
But...I cannot force Rhynn and the others to give them up. I won't. I just hope it isn't a mistake...
-
A meeting was held at the Hlint Courthouse...
And a lot was gleaned from that meeting. It seems that Koralawyn is abusing her authority as Planar Guardian in order to get the halfling to submit to her will. And that the horses were being used and tortured for that purpose. The Five...as I have come to call them now...must appeal to the other Planar Guardians and prove Koralawyn is abusing her powers. They first must go to Arborea and Celestia to find out what they can. They already went to Arborea...now I hope that Celestia will prove just as fruitful.
Ireth was frightened today. She said she couldn't always feel Fear. And that made her even more fearful. We talked at length...me trying to calm her...make her overcome her fear even though she lost contact with her horse. My advice to her was...to hold on to Jet with all the strength she could. And to let her love for him take over...and I gave her a friendly hug to calm her. It worked. Her fear had subsided.
Then I spoke to Rhynn...she wanted to go to Rilara to reclaim her body. She fell to the overgrown pidgeon there. She could have gotten there by herself fine...but I went along to keep her company. She guessed what I was afraid to tell them. That I felt that they don't need the horses to soothe them. That they had dealt with their emotions before the horses and she said..."and we will deal with them afterwards." She also said that she doesn't blame me for thinking that...that I was worried about them as a good friend should be. I think that she has considered the possibility that the horses may not be able to stay with them and has accepted it. As has Ireth. Ireth said that she could live without being bonded to Fear. I truly hope so.
I also hope with all my heart that if this is so that my friendship with them won't be at an end. I will also take my own advice and hold onto Ferrit with all my strength....
-
I needed to get away from Hlint for a while for the world seemed to be wrong...
And Ferrit must be a mind reader. She sent me a note to meet her on Rilara for some panther and cougar skins. I hopped the next boat off Mistone to see her. We hunted and fished...and everything seemed right with the world again. I needed to get away from Hlint...away from the constant worry about demons and horses and ogres. We made a fire at Lake Rillon and we held each other for a long while just cuddling by the fire and sharing tender kisses by the reflected moonlight off the lake.
This thing about the Riders has made me appreciate what I have with Ferrit. I need no horse to assuage my fears...hear my worries. For that...I have Ferrit and I know that she will be there for me...to listen to my worries and calm my fears. To be there to keep me from losing my cool...to accept that which I cannot change. And when I hold her in my arms...I become complete.
No horse from another plane can even come close to my Ferrit. I love her even more now than ever before.
And I hope that the Riders will be able to see that for themselves...
-
Just when everything was going our way...sort of...something happens to darken things...
The Soul Mother has returned. Ash had found that out the hard way. She had fallen and the Soul Mother was there waiting for her. It isn't fair. I think of Ayla now. And how if she falls again...it will be for the final time. And I think of Ferrit...and her two visits by that witch. With the Soul Mother defeated...I was at ease. I was able to look at a future with Ferrit. We grow old together...watch our children and grandchildren grow. And we would die of old age. It was the best thing one can hope for.
Now...I find myself becoming more timid...more concerned about Ferrit. If she were to fall for that final time...The best future I pray for will not come to pass. I cannot let that happen.
I must...for the sake of that future...become the hardest man to kill so I can protect my love...and anyone else with me from losing their futures. So help me Ilsare...
-
I am overcompensating for my being timid of adventure...
Almost to the point of foolhardiness. I was talked into going to the Moors to kill some lizards by Rhynn and Treana...someone who I recently met. And we also got Talen Sgath to go along. We got through the first couple of patrol groups...but when we pressed deeper into the swamps...the artillerists let loose with their deadly poison bolts...Rhynn, Treana, and Talen all fell to the poison. I was slowed by the poison and couldn't save any of them with the potions I had and barely made it back to Hlint alive. The new belt I got from Jharl seemed to keep most of the bolts from reaching me so I could escape. And...from what I was told...the Soul Mother wasn't around this time. I was glad for that.
Here I am...worried for Ferrit...and I go and almost get killed. I don't know what came over me or why I agreed to go...but it could have resulted in a meeting with the Soul Mother. I must pick my battles...or adjust my tactics so that I am not overwhelmed. I must be smarter than that.
Ferrit will not be happy once she finds out. I think I will tell her before anyone else does. She needs to hear it from me. I'll have the...scolding coming...
-
There is a place in Velensk where death has no teeth...
An Arena of sorts where you can go...fight..and not worry about death or the Soul Mother. It was the perfect place to bring Rhynn..Addison and Treana to let out some steam.
And Addison desperately needed to let out some indulgence. She hits...really hard...I did give her a little bit of a fight. Rhynn and Treana didn't have a chance. It was the perfect therapy for Addison. Her indulgence was sated and she returned to a calm collected state.
The Riders don't have much time...the need to get Koralawyn to bond to Insanity. This is just a guess...but since Insanity is white...he is pure. And I'm betting Koralawyn can't resist purity. Insanity is believed to be the uncorrupted pure form of Elezandar...the rightful Guardian of Pandemonium. Our theory is if Koralawyn bonds with Insanity...and the Five focuses their emotions on Insanity...Koralawyn will fall. The horses will be freed...
And hopefully the girls will get their lives back...
-
I may not need to train with Derrick Loadson after all...
After going a few rounds in the Arena with Addison...I told her that I was training with the katana as well. I also paid her the compliment of being honored to train under her...and she said that she will get in touch with her master...I forget his name for now...I was to say the least, stunned. And also relieved. Everyone says that Derrick is really a good guy....but I don't know...I'm still a little skittish about him.
Anyway...I took Ferrit to see the Arena. And she decided to pick a fight with me!!! I put her on her butt...knocking her down and it felt...sickening. Even though there was no fear of death...the thought of me...striking my love...I felt like my insides were being ripped out. She kissed me and said she wanted to try it out...but I...couldn't bring myself to do it. Luckly Addison was there to give a demonstration. She took both of us down...rather easily. I don't think I'll bring Ferrit there anymore...
And as for paying Jharl with silk for my belt...it is getting too hazardous. Ferrit sneaks into a cave of spiders on Rilara to fill the boxes I need for Jharl. She fell three times to the stinking bugs. And thank Ilsare the Soul Mother wasn't looking each time. Each time she falls...a little piece of me falls with her. Even though I never felt the Soul Mother's touch....this has to be close.
I'll be glad when I pay Jharl off so she won't have to go into that cave anymore for me...
-
I'm at my wits end...
Rhynn is getting stranger and stranger by the minute. And it isn't the horses this time. Now she believes that her former creep of a mentor Saebhel is looking for her and loves her and she him. She didn't even remember who I was. Not even a fake attempt at drowning in the lake snapped her out of it. She has now started to alienate those she is closest to. Bah!!! I was a fool to think that I can help her. I'll let Freldo handle her. She's his problem now. I wash my hands of her. And I'm not the only one who feels this way.
Treana was also hurt by Rhynn. Rhynn...in that fit of amnesia...told her that she didn't trust a word she said. This got Treana so upset...that she was mean to Ferrit after Ferrit had saved her from the Sielwood spiders. It took a lot of cuddling from me to ease Ferrit. I must speak to Treana...tell her that she has other friends than Rhynn.
Well...back to more saner things...I am one strand of silk from paying off Jharl and I couldn't be more relieved. Ferrit didn't want to go to Rilara to get it and I don't blame her one bit. Truthfully...I was relieved. One more trip to the Seilwood should do it.
Kesa Briams is becoming one of my best customers for weapons and shields. She bought a bronze bastard sword and a bronze kite shield from me. She also purchased the bronze longsword that I was going to sell to Jeremy Steel. They seem to be quite taken with each other...they do make a handsome couple. Ferrit and I must travel with them...I think we could become good friends with them.
I think I'll go to the arena...maybe Addison can teach me a few more tricks...
-
Kyle hand is shaking as he writes this journal entry...he is visibly upset.
Ayla Bineau is dead once more...
The Soul Mother...that...that...*Elven expletive*...just couldn't wait. Ayla was helping to heal someone on Arabel when she was killed. And that witch was waiting for her. There will be no return for her this time. I will miss her even more now. Dearest Ilsare...let your love take care of her now. I will remember her smile as she made that enchantment for me. It is the memory that will stay with me.
Ferrit was understandably distraught. And was worried about my dying. I told her if that ever happened...she was to go on...knowing that my love will always be with her. And nothing can ever take that from her. I told her..that I want to grow old with her...and watch our children and grandchildren grow....and I will fight my hardest to see that come to pass. I swear on Ilsare that will happen.
And I have made peace with Rhynn. Seems my little stunt in the pond worked in restoring her memory. But I still felt a little foolish. She told me that Insanity had shifted from Angela to Mith. And that we were all being affected by the insanity some. That would explain the amnesia and her wishing to return to that slime of a master. I must make it up to her as soon as I can.
The times are getting crazier and crazier...
-
It's all coming together...
We had a visit from Fear and Anger today. Ireth...Rhynn and I were talking about things...when their horses appeared. I couldn't help but pet them. They are just as much pawns in this as the ladies who ride them...and they seem to understand me. Just as the seem to understand that I mean them no ill will or harm. From what Rhynn told me...they are prepared to become unbound to them. As much as that makes me relieved...it will not be a happy occasion. I hate to admit it...but those horses grow on you. But I wouldn't want to be bound to one.
Fear told Ireth of an amulet. An amulet that would be key to the undoing of Koralawyn. We would have to travel to Lorindar in Roldem to the rubble of the bard guild hall of the Ineffable Chord. Therewe found a hooded spirit...also looking for it. We did battle and after defeating it...we went inside where I found the amulet and gave it to Ireth.
Ozymandias tells us the amulet was the instrument by which Koralawyn came into being the Guardian of Pandemonium. And that we need to get Insanity to bond with it...then get Koralawyn to bond with the amulet. Easier said than done. We must first find Insanity. I think that all we need to do is get Insanity to wear the amulet to bind him to it. And the only link to Insanity is Mith.
There is also a side story to this...Aranna has another mother. Ireth had carried Aranna for her. And she is the rightful Guardian of Celestia. And that her bloodline is heir to Guardianship. It seems to me that Koralawyn means to disrupt the bloodline by tainting the lake that is used to christen the Guardian of Celestia.
We must bind Koralawyn to Insanity before that happens. Or truly there will be hell to pay...
-
Last night was special...
The dress and suit that Treana made for us were what made the night special. Ferrit was simply radiant in her red dress. We wore them at the Arms where we had dinner....danced...and spent most of the night just looking deep into each other's eyes...bringing smiles to all those who passed by our table. It was the best night we've had in a long time. I hope we will have more of them. I love Ferrit so..
Now the time draws near...
The Riders will ride to Pandemonium to confront Koralawyn. Hopefully they will be able to bind her to the amulet and force her to be bound to Insanity. And hopefully..they will be freed from their own bonds to their horses. And the Plane of Celestia will be safe as well. I fear a lot of us will perish...but if it will stop Koralawyn...it may be worth it. For Koralawyn will not be content with just Celestia...all the planes may fall to her.
And that would be worse than Blood taking over...
-
It is finally over...
Koralawyn was bound to Insanity...and defeated. Ozy had tricked Koralawyn into thinking he was foolish enough to 'accidentally' bring her the amulet. So...she took it from him and put it on...binding herself to Insanity. It was a delayed binding...for Koralawyn struck me down as well as a few others. Her taunts ringing in my ear. But...I was raised in time to see the unbinding and the beautiful sight of Ireth being reunited with Aranna on Celestia. Celestia is a beautiful plane. But I fear I will never walk there again. It will be a memory that will stay with me until I am in my grave.
The girls have unbound with their horses...Elezandor is in his rightful place...and the best news of all...Aranna...who we all thought had perished...was alive and will now live with Ireth here on Layonara. It was the outcome that we all hoped for.
But I am torn a bit. When all this started...I was actually disliking the horses and what Elezandor did to the girls. But as time went on...I came to realize that those horses were just as much a pawn in this as the girls and I actually started to like them. Guess they kind of grew on me. As I saw each one unbind...I felt sad. Like they were unbinding from me a bit. I guess the whole thing has affected me as well. I will miss the horses too.
I need to go to Ferrit. To tell her what I have done. And to tell her for the thousandth time how much I love her. She will be proud of me...
-
Ayla Bineau is a blessed woman...
Once again...the gods saw fit to return her to the living. I found her on top of the platform in Hlint...resting out her death. It seems that she has some sort of task she has yet to do or else she would not be back. Maybe she will be more cautious now...I don't think the gods will give her another chance.
The Broken Forest has become more deadly...
I went there to get some oak and found the area levelled by some cataclysm. And there are VERY deadly creeper vines. More deadly than the creeper vines that are outside Krandor. This one stung me...paralyzed me and sucked the life right out of me. And again my luck holds...for the Soul Mother was nowhere to be seen. As if I knew what she looks like anyway. I must keep Ferrit from going there. She would not even stand a chance. She...and everyone else...must go through Leilon to get to Port Hampshire now.
There is an ill wind blowing. And everyone will get caught in it....
-
Rhynn is becoming more and more...dark...
She has been accepted into the Arcane Alliance...and is now dressing the part. Black...and her mood has become darker...more...like a shadow. A side of her self that well...frightens me. Treana says that the Alliance has ties to the Black Wizards...and that we should be wary.
And she has told me that Rhynn is having second thoughts about it and is trying to break her contract with them. Tough thing to do. Rhynn is so mixed up...I doubt she knows exactly what she wants.
Ferrit had to leave me for a while. A tirp to Dregar searching for some artifacts. The captain of the ship wouldn't allow me to come. Fool...to not let me...her husband go...it made me sore a bit. And she must return next week to complete the job. Every time we're apart...I feel empty...incomplete.
Let's hope this job is over soon...
-
*a page has been torn from this entry*
Rhynn Saebhel has changed...
She has developed a mean streak in her. She smiles at other people's pain and discomforts. It is as if the light inside her has grown dim. A shadow...one that holds a very dim view of life.
Maybe the ordeal in Pandemonium affected her deeper than she realizes...or that it is the lessons with Mith...his dim view of life rubbing off on her. And maybe I hope she can sort it out.
On a happier note...Treana has found love again...
She had explained her culture to Talen along with what it means to be betrothed to her. And they will be wed within the year. Such a joy could not be concealed...for she was skipping...practically floating in the air. I hope they will have the happiness that Ferrit and I enjoy. But I fear that I gave Treana the impression that I am a priest of Ilsare. I must set her straight on that.
Ferrit fell in Haven Mine and was touched for the second time again. I say again because when the Soul Mother was defeated that time...everyone got a piece of their souls back. She is now resting at home and I must get back to see her.
I'm going to hold on to her and never let go...
-
I am a fool...
I broke a rule I made for myself once I started Weapons Training. That is never...never...be quick to judge. That can be a fatal mistake. And I almost made just such a mistake about Rhynn.
She is her own person. And for better or worse...it is her life to lead. That I was so...presumptuous...was not only unfair to her...but it was very unlike me to do so. I have apologized to her...and she was very gracious in accepting. I'll just be the supportive friend that I hoped I was and can still be.
I owe her that much at least...
-
Treana is a wise woman...
Well...she said this bit of wisdom comes from her grandfather. I had asked her if it was possible to be too caring...too afraid of what may happpen to a friend...that it becomes more like a sermon than advice. What she said makes sense. That caring for someone isn't a bad thing...but one must examine the motive for such caring. Whether it come from love or selfishness determines it to be true caring or not. That if such caring is an attempt to force one's idea of good or ill on the cared for...then it isn't caring at all. Even if such an examination leads to hurt...better to know it now than live in ignorance of it. The last thing I would want is to force my ideals on anyone. I must think on this more...and square it all in my mind.
And deal with what I may learn about myself...
-
The blessings have run out...
Ash told me that Ayla Bineau...who had twice thwarted death...has succumbed for what is most likely the final time. While I hold out hope that she will once again cheat the cold hand of death...I do prepare myself for the reality of her final death. She was a good soul...and this death hurts no less than the others. I will sorely miss her.
Ferrit is resting at home. She had gathered quite a bit of material and it will take her a few days to process it all. She is so tired...that once we are in bed...she falls to sleep almost immediately. Poor thing. I'll make her a breakfast in the morning fit for a queen.
She deserves it...
-
Ferrit came out last night...
She went to the Arms with me to hear stories and spend an evening with me away from crafting and work. We sat arm in arm and listened to Acacea regale us with her exploits of a trip to Xantril. I do so love these moments with Ferrit. Just the two of us...just relaxing and enjoying ourselves. It makes life...well, life. When Acacea finished...we went home for some quiet time for ourselves. She still has a lot to do.
I haven't seen Treana for a while. Did I do anything to upset her? Is she avoiding me for some reason? She has been distant lately and I miss her company sometimes.
I hope I can talk to her and find out...
-
The Soul Mother has once again brought grief to our lives...
She claimed another piece of Ferrit today. That's the third time my Ferrit has seen her. Ferrit said she got a little careless gathering corn near Port Hampshire and the ants swarmed her and killed her. The *Elven expletive* was waiting. Why Ferrit? Why any one who is close to me? Ferrit promised me she will be more careful in the future. but...I can't let her be timid either. I want to have a family with her so badly...it is all I can think of now.
I will hold her with all the love in my heart. We will have a family...we will grow old together...we will be happy. So help me Ilsare...it will be so...
-
Rhynn is in yet another crisis of love...
Crisis? Maybe not. But a problem nonetheless. There is this paladin of Rofirein...Thomas...who is following her around like a lovesick puppy. Rhynn told me he is aware that she loves Freldo...but it doesn't seem to sink in. Then...it happened. Thomas surprised her by kissing her. Froze her in her tracks. She told me...Treana and Anna. They wanted to gut the poor fool...but me...I told Rhynn that she must make Thomas understand she cannot love him back. And to tell Freldo the truth about it.
Sure...some will get hurt...but I told Rhynn that now that she let it happen...it will be a lot tougher for her to tell Thomas without breaking his heart. He will undoubtably think that Rhynn has feelings for him. And that is what is going to make it difficult.
I care for Rhynn as if she was one of my sisters. We went though Pandemonium and back. Do I play the big brother and scare Thomas off or do I let her handle it?
I shall wait and see. Maybe...just maybe everything will work out...
-
I don't know what I'm thinking...
Talen Sgath asked me to stand with him as his Witness and Helper at his wedding to Treana. I was honored to do so until he told me of one of the duties I had to perform.
This duty is to kiss Treana at the ceremony with all the passion I could and judge if she returns any. It is a test to see if her passion belongs to Talen and Talen alone. Now...I like Treana as a friend and a kiss on the cheek is one thing...but a passionate kiss...it will feel wrong. Like I would be betraying my vows to Ferrit. It saddened me to decline. And Talen...well...let's just say that he said he understood...but he was depressed.
I returned to the Craft House where Ferrit was helping Honora with some monk robes. Ferrit saw my sadness and asked me why. I told her of Talen's request of me...and I demonstrated what I had to do at the ceremony. I kissed Ferrit with all the love I have for her. She said that she saw no problem with that as long as I didn't like kissing Treana better. "Are you afraid that I would fail the test?", she asked. "No..." was my only answer. "I know about it...I understand why it is necsessary...you say you like my kisses better...so what's to worry?" is what she said. Gods...how I love Ferrit so!!! She is truly my one and only love!!! "Go find your friend and help him." she told me.
I caught Talen at the Hlint Crypts and told him I'd go through with it. His mood brightened up immediately. I had to make him understand that my heart will always belong to Ferrit and nothing will change that.
After the ceremony...I'm going to take Ferrit away and show her just how much my heart belongs to her...
-
Something strange happened to Ferrit and me...
We went deep into the Seilwood because Ferrit needed some garlic and adventurine. It started out like any other gathering trip...ogres...cockatrices...spiders. Always spiders...sheesh. It was when we got to the ruins very deep in the Forest is when it happened.
We were attacked by these strange dog-like creatures who can draw upon the Weave for magic. And there were an extraordinary number of lycanthropes in the area. They almost sent Ferrit to the bindstone. I fought with everything I had to keep them from harming her...at the risk of my own life. I will not have Ferrit see the Soul Mother anymore. We barely got out of there with the aventurine...and our lives.
We limped back to Aerdin's Grove. Ferrit was still shaking from the bone-chilling howls of those beasts. We spent the night together in the Grove...comforting each other as we slept at the campfire. It was a very unsettling event. We must warn people about this swell in the lycanthrope population down there.
Treana's wedding is fast approaching and I am getting more and more troubled...
I won't back out...I gave my word to Talen. But I think Treana knows that I am Talen's Witness and Helper. She is not sure....but I feel she has a good idea that it is me. That could complicate things. It would mean she knows who it is beforehand...her tradition dictates that she not know before the ceremony...and she may be relieved enough knowing that it is someone she trusts to show a hint of affection to me in her kiss. That would end the ceremony right then and there. I don't know what to do. I have Ferrit's understanding and blessing but still...
What if Treana does show a hint of passion? How would that make everyone involved feel?
I could lie...but Treana will know. I will know. I am honor bound to be truthful. I hope to the gods...and my conscience...that I am not passionate enough for Treana...
-
The wedding is off....
Treana and Talen decided to postpone their wedding. Seems they had a little disagreement and split up. Most couples have their quarrels and Treana told me they patched things up...but they will wait to see if they are really sure they are ready to commit to each other. A reasonable thing...she is a reasonable woman.
I am sorry that it came to this...but I am also relieved. I will not have to administer the A'Dose Min Im'Taro Desiir....the kissing test...to Treana. A huge burden was lifted off my shoulders even with Ferrit's blessing. I was prepared to go through with it...but I would have still felt funny and the postponement makes it a moot point anyhow.
They still travel with each other...and maybe they will try again. And I will still be honored to be Talen's Witness and Helper if he so chooses.
But now...I will be ready for it...
-
I am teaching Rhynn Elven...
Actually...I'm filling in when Ash isn't around. Rhynn has a knack for language. Must be because she has to utter words of a different language to be able to use the Weave. At any rate...she is picking up the Elven language quickly. Faster than I did when I learned. And she will blow Freldo's mind away once she whispers sweet nothings in Elven to him.
Zandor Glowingaxe is back. And it was great to see him again. Hope he stays a while this time. Ferrit and I missed his company. We will have to go adventuring with him again for old times sake. Listen to me...for old times sake. Heh...as if I'm ready to retire now...
Addison is due to give birth anyday now. Zandor mentioned questing to get a strand of Cole's soul back...and we had to quickly talk Addison out of it. She has a baby to think of now. A piece of Cole that will give her the hope she needs. And the love she deserves. To risk that for Cole would be too high a price. And Addison seemed to understand that. She is in Pranzis with her mother now...waiting to give birth. And that is where the hope is...
That is where the hope for the future is...
-
Addison gave birth to a boy a few days ago...
And she named him...Calvin Norseman. And I've never seen her happier. Now...she has someone to live for...someone that will fill her days with joy and love. And he looks a bit like Cole too. And he will probably master the katana like his parents. Addison will be a terrific mother. The baby couldn't be in better hands.
Treana and Talen have started the Courting Period again. Another year to see if they truly love each other enough to marry. I think Treana was a bit hasty in ending it the first time...and it will now cost another year's waiting as her traditions dictate that it must begin anew. I better start to re-learn those phrases for the wedding ceremony.
I think I'm going to need them in a year's time...
-
I just have five words for the new Triumvirate Janis Meteior...
To the hells with you. My family's home is in the Kingdom of Roldem. Long have we enjoyed the alliance between the Kingdom and Mistone. Now...some petty halfling would abandon them in their time of need. Such folly...especially in out war against Blood.
I for one will not stop donating my time and skills to Roldem. Even if I have to stand at the gate of Tibum alone against Blood's army. If Janis Meteior and the Alliance have a problem with that...they can...well...I won't base myself with what they can do.
Better start doublinng my donations...Roldem will need them...
-
Ok...Thomas is no paladin...
He blatently lied to me about his feelings for Rhynn. Little does he know Rhynn told me about the stolen kiss in Haven and that the poems in the Surge are all for her. And he tells me to my face that his heart belongs to another...but won't say her name.
It is Rhynn...because he still follows her around like that love sick puppy.
I had to take matters into my own hands. I spoke to Freldo. I told him simply that Thomas is delusional....that the 'paladin' believes Rhynn to be his chosen. The one Rofirien picked for him. Freldo said that that is Rhynn's problem and that if he were to butt in....she would be even more dependent on him. I said..."I think this would be a good time for you to 'butt in'. And what can she do against the percieved word of a paladin's god?" Freldo thought about it a moment and asked where Rhynn was. "She's at the Temple of Ilsare. Maybe you should talk to her." And he left in a little rush.
Later...Rhynn told me that she and Freldo talked a bit. And that Freldo had a solution to her 'problem' but he wouldn't say what. If it means what I think it means...
I just hope that 'paladin' gets the message this time...
-
Is it on or is it off...
Talen and Treana have had another quarrel. This time about Treana taking a job at the Freelancers. I don't know....but I'm beginning to feel that they aren't meant to be married after all. Fine thing for an Ilsarian to say. Talan asked me to be his Viza Na'Ruvan again...but Treana indicated that maybe it may not happen after all. She is frustrated.
And I can understand her frustration. Talen is hardly around for her. That is never good for a relationship. At least I know Ferrit will be home...and she knows I will come home...so when we are apart...it isn't the end of the world. But Talen...he disappears for weeks at a time...not even a message telling Treana how much he loves her. Treana is just about at her wits end. I told Talen as much when we went to Lar. A messenger falcon brought a note...obviously from Treana because he left me swiftly. I had get back to Hlint on my own.
Call me a hopeless romantic...but I hope they can get everything straightened out between them...
-
I guess when you pray to Ilsare enough she listens...
Treana and Talen have seemed to put their quarreling behind them. We were on our way to Ulgrid's Fortress...when in Shoufal...Treana and Talen could help but show their love for each other. Treana thought it strange for me to turn when they started to get affectionate...but I wished to give them some privacy. Such is only proper for an Ilsarian to act.
The trip however turned into a disaster when we all fell to the giants trying to get to Ulgrid's. It took a lot of magics by Sa'kura to get us to our stones and us to find the real cave the fortress was in. Seems Talen was mistaken and we had fallen in the wrong area. Perhaps it was his love for Treana that confused him a litte. They decided to head back while Sa'kura and I resumed the trek to Ulgrid's to get some documents for the tinker in Lar.
Sa'kura is a good friend. And a lot of fun to travel with. If it weren't for the spells she cast...we could have lost soul strands. I'm glad she was there. I was able to complete the task for Charles Dawson in Lar. Now maybe he won't break too many chairs.
Ferrit has been very busy lately. I just watch her sleep. She must be having nice dreams because I catch her smiling while she sleeps. It makes me smile myself and I can't help but kiss her forehead and let her sleep. I guess seeing Treana and Talen together brings out the love I have for Ferrit out. I do love Ferrit so.
And I know our lives will be filled with love...and more adventure...
-
Spiders are popping up throughout the area...
I had to stomp on a few in the smithy the other day while smelting gold for Talen. There must be an infestation somewhere that must be dealt with. Otherwise we will be hip deep in the vermin. I think I'll start the search in the Seilwood. That is the nearest nest of spiders I know of.
Something is bothering Treana. We got to talking about the wedding and when I asked her if Addy was still going to be her Viza Na'Ruvan...she got very nervous and flustered. Hope nothing happened between them. Addy is still my de facto mentor in katana. We will have to get together for dinner...Viza Na'Ruvan to Viza Na'Ruvan. Just to talk about our roles at the wedding. And to set up when I can train in earnest.
I feel ready to be called a Master...I hope Addy...and Ferrit...will be proud of me...
-
Well...it's over again...
Treana has once again called off the wedding. She tells me that it was a lie from the very start...that she was just off her mourning for first husband...Erathim...when she entered her relationship with Talen. She says that maybe she was searching for someone just like Erathim and Talen seemed to be the one. That...Treana said was the lie. And that what led to the first break up.
The second time...Addison Scarlace had complicated things. Addy has professed to be in love with Treana. That...was a bolt from the blue. Sa'kura and I were stunned at this news. Now...I think it is because Addy has just lost Cole and is confused on what she really wants...and Treana said that she cannot return that kind of love for Addy. They had talked...and Addy is content with things the way they are now between them as the good friends they always were. I hope Addy can clear her mind and heart. But she had nothing to do with Treana's decison. Sa'kura and I promised not to say anything on this to protect Addy's dignity.
And now...my friend Talen...
He was devastated by the news. To the point of drawing steel on Rain Darsus in Hlnt. He blamed Addy for causing Treana to end the relationship...to the point of threatening Addy with death. That would have been impossible. Addy is a Master and would have made short work of Talen. I asked him if he really wanted to make her baby an orphan...a thought he said that had crossed his mind but I reminded him that he was not that cold and he immediately recanted. We spent a long time talking in the Craft House...tears and sadness. I told him all Treana told me...and that her doubt is what ended it. That was the whole point of the Courting Period.
It will take a long time for Talen to get over the hurt and anger. I pray with all my heart that he does. He is a good man and derserves one who can love him completely...Treana's words.
I hope that Talen finds it in his heart to continue as a friend to Treana. Only time will tell that...
-
Rhynn has stepped in it this time...
She had become 'intmate' with Mith. Mith...I have lost what little respect I have for him. To me...he is lower than dirt. He is beneath my contempt. If it weren't for the magics he hides behind...
Rhynn...Rhynn...Rhynn...what were you thinking? How can you betray Anna so? And Freldo too. I know Freldo can be a bit of an ass..but he did not deserve that. She told him all about it...and predictably and understandably he has left her. Maybe for the better. In all fairness...Freldo really didn't spend that much time with Rhynn. And while that doesn't excuse what happened...it would explain why.
I myself...cannot bring myself to be really angry with Rhynn. She has had a tough go of it...and with what she has gone through...lesser people would have gone totally insane. I will still be the supportive 'big brother' I was...and I hope I can help her get through this. I pray that love will find her again.
Better news..if you could call it that...
My youngest sister...Jenna...is in Hlint. Rhynn told me. Now why would the dragon call her to Hlint? Don't get me wrong...she's my sister and I love her...but she has a knack for being where she isn't supposed to be. I myself had to bail her from jail a couple of times.
Still...I will be happy to see her. And happy that she will meet Ferrit. Ferrit will have a 'sister' to call her own...
-
Seems that I'm destined to be someone's Best Man...
If not Talen...then Rain. Rain Darsus. He is seeing Sonya Darkangel and they wish to get married. He said he doesn't know too many here...and asked me to stand with him at their wedding. Now this wedding will be more like Ferit and mine. I won't have to kiss Sonya to test her love. I was honored to accept. Now the planning begins.
I got a note from him. From Jenna. And an enchanted copper ingot. Jenna sounds like she wants to turn a new leaf. I will give her the benefit of the doubt. She is my sister after all...
-
I finally ran into my sister today...
We hugged and cried a bit. We got to talking about how she came to be here. She isn't dragoncalled. She came because the Magistrate in North Hampshire said..'use your skills to do good for a change and pay back what was taken'. How she is going to do that...I don't know. She mentioned tailoring and I know Ferrit would love to teach her.
She also told me about meeting Talen. And that she was attracted to him. I told her he had a really bad break up not long ago...and he may not be looking for another just yet. She just nodded and got back to telling me how everyone was being good to her.
I will be good to have her around. I can feel it...
-
War is coming...I can feel it...
And saw it. This Black Hodded figure strolls into town and using this staff that has an eye in it starts looking over the town. And it's people. Myself included. Must be an advanced scout for Blood looking to see how well defended Hlint is. There's been rumors of an invasion force alrady on Dregar. If Blood takes Dregar...then Rilara would be next...then Mistone.
But something Ozy said that really makes me think. Diversions were the calling cards of some of his generals. I believe that with the sighting of this scout in Hlint...then Dregar is a fake attack...since the Dragoncalled will undoubtably be going to Dregar...leaving Mistone woefully undermanned.
Some may call me coward...but my place is with Ferrit and now Jenna. If what I fear is true...then I will defend my home...and them...with everything I have in me. I will stay on Mistone. And I will try to convince some of the Dragoncalled to stay as well. Hlint may very well be the last battlefield.
And then...I would hate to think of the future if Hlint were to fall...
-
*Kyle looks around the house in Krandor. He sighs heavily as he writes in his journal. The sounds of Ferrit and Jenna talking in the pantry causes him to pause. He manages a weak smile and begins to write*
The time draws near...
I finally convinced Ferrit to gather all she could and head for Hlint. She and Jenna have hit it off really well since they met and Ferrit is thrilled to death on having a sister. They will be best of friends and I am glad. It is what we will fight for this day. This day...Sinthar Bloodstone will be just a bad memory...a spooky story to scare young children at bedtime. Rhynn and those who go to battle will return victorious. And we...will...have...peace. Ilsare's love will keep them safe.
In Hlint...I will take up station near the portals outside Moraken's. It is the most likely spot for an invasion force to come from. I hope I can rally whatever support I can from Talon and Garent and the militia stationed here. We cannot trust the Mistone Alliance. We may be on our own.
I hope that the battle on Dregar stops this before it starts...
-
This is a day of mixed emotions....
First I'll start with the happiest of all news. Sinthar Bloodstone is no more!!!! The war is now over as the final blood pool has been destroyed and Blood along with it. However...a darkening cloud is everywhere...a by product of the destruction. A great evil has been vanquished today...and threatens us no more. A time for celebration is at hand.
But...it will have to be a subdued one. For the City of Pranzis....one a bustling port town has fallen and is held by the remnants of Blood's Army. So many have died there which makes Blood's demise bittersweet. But...since Blood is gone...it shouldn't be too hard to retake Pranzis and build it back up to it's former glory. And I...will...be there for the retaking. I swear it.
But first...I must tell Ferrit. She will be so relieved that we can finally turn out thoughts to having a family. One that will never have to face the likes of Bloodstone.
And the future looks brighter already...dark cloud in the sky notwithstanding....
-
Addison and Treana lovers...
I...don't know what to say to that. The Ilsarian in me should be glad that they both found love...but there is another side of me that isn't so sure. I still need time to sort it out. I mean I have known a couple of those types of relationships. But why am I so...shocked at this? Was all that talk of traditions and the Old Culture that Treana was so proud of before all a lie? Do I care more about them than she does? I need time...
On more grim news....
Ozymandias gave us a little history lesson. One that does not paint a bright and rosy future. The dark cloud overhead according to him may last for decades....or centuries. And that to insure survival...we must adapt to changing climate...and attitudes. We must be able to use everything and not waste. The plants and animals who can't survive...won't. We must start now to gather and store them and conserve them. We must go on a fish diet. Fish it seems will be really the only meat around. The climate will get colder. We must wear suitable clothing...and have suitable shelter.
And the only way to do that is to get as many people together as possible and cooperate with each other. To put past predjudices and hatreds aside. to insure that we will survive the coming Dark Ages.
Or...Bloodstone will have had the last laugh from the grave...
-
Ok...so it isn't that bad...
I spoke to Treana yesterday. I guess the inital shock has worn off and I can come to accept her choice of love. The heart is a funny thing...you never know who Ilsare's love will shine on. And I guess this proves it. She and Addy are both wearing Courting Garb...thus showing all that they intend to wed. If I'm asked to be Viza Na'Ruvan for either of them...I will decline. Partially out of my friendship for Talen...and...heh...I seem to be the kiss of death for that. Twice I was Talen's Viza Na'Ruvan..and twice his relationship failed. I wouldn't want that to happen a third time. Besides...I don't want to test Ferrit's patience a third time. This has become a rather unique situation.
It will be interesting for sure...
-
I could just kill Barion Firesteed....
He went to do something foolish. He was about to go to Firesteep alone. He was shaken by Abigail's suicide that I thought he was doing this to kill himself. Sa'kura was beside herself. She had received a letter from him stating that he wasn't good enough for her and she should move on. Hogwash!!! I saw how they are together. Sa'kura was beside herself with anguish. And there was only one thing to do.
We went to the base of Firesteep Mountain. We had hoped to intercept him and knock sense into him. Sure...he and Abi were close. Like brother and sister. And her suicide cut deep. But...he was running away. Running away from a woman who loves him deeply. Enough to risk Firesteep alone herself...and The Plane of The Lost if needed. I wasn't about to let her go alone. But...thank the gods we caught him.
The sight of Sa'kura was enough to keep him from going. They held each other for a while and I discreetly moved away to give them their privacy. I went back to North Point.
Sa'kura caught me later and said everything will be fine. They and a very long talk. I can only wonder about what they said. I think they will be alright mow.
There is always hope...even when things seem hopeless...
-
The entry on this page seems to be written by someone who is barely controlling seething rage.
Will it never end?....
Anna's babies were taken right from her womb my magical means which nearly killed her. And Ozy tells us someone is bound on the outer planes...and needs twins to perform a ritual to free him.
Such an abomination!!! Anna feels so empty now...the life she was carrying now gone from her. I...can barely contol myself. First the Pandemonial Horses...now this. We must get them back. We must.
I fear another trip to the planes is inevitable. And I will be there...for a friend...and for her children.
I will hold Ferrit tightly tonight. I need all the courage I can get...
The ink trails off in a very angry streak.
-
Jenna is acting strange...
She is smiling and seems to be lost in thought most of the time. She won't tell me and just changes the subject every time I ask. She was invited to Rain and Sonya's wedding...she showed me the invitation. She just prattles on about making a dress for it. I think I'll have Ferrit help her.
We have collected most of the provisions for the wedding. Now all that's left is the place. We need to talk to Freldo about the Arms...or Anna about Freelancers. Worse comes to worse...outside our house in Krandor would do just fine.
Ferrit and I are collecting more goods for Roldem and will go there in a while. We are to build and farm and teach those who wish to learn. Being so close to home makes me want to drop by.
And Ferrit will finally meet the whole family...
-
Glenn Thendor...dead...
I..can't believe it. Addison told Ferrit and me while we were collecting things for Roldem. The news hit us like an ogre's hammer. He was without a doubt the closest friend either one of us ever had. Ferrit just started to cry and I held her and kissed her tears away. Addison got a little uncomfortable with that and ran off before we could say anything to her.
I remember him saving us from the authorities by warning us of the shady dealings that so called 'trading guild' we had joined a while back. We never forgot that and we all became close friends after that.
He made both of us our mahogany bows. And every time I use 'Ferrit's Love'...I know he will be with us. He was going to make a bow out of yew wood...but I don't know if he succeeded.
We will hold a wake for him after Rain and Sonya's wedding. I will fire an arrow into the air in rememberance.
We will miss him terribly...
-
Thw wedding was terrific...
Sonya was gorgeous...Rain was a wreck...and the ceremony went off without a problem. As I stood beside Rain...I couldn't help steal glances at Ferrit. I guess it was the emotions of the moment...but I was brought back to our wedding day. I remember Ferrit...dressed in her wedding gown looking as radiant as the sun was that day. Ferrit saw me and smiled back at me. We are so in tune with each other I could swear she was reading my thoughts...that she sees me...in my groom's tux...standing before her...pledging my love to her all over again. I still love Ferrit today as I did that day. Even more so. And I hope that Rain and Sonya have an equal love for each other.
I did get an interesting note from Jenna. Apparently Rain had invited her to come as well...but the note was for Elgon Merrick. I didn't read the note...but when I gave it to Elgon...his face betrayed a hint of worry. I wonder what that is all about. I'll have to ask Jenna. I met Elgon a few times...and he seems to be a good sort. I'll have to see...
I must get back to work...Roldem really needs those shafts...
-
So...Sa'kura is Treana's Viza Na'Ruvan...
I remember telling her about it when I was Talen's...but she didn't really understand it. But...since I am now the A'Tulsaiir Na'Birisa...Speaker and Binder...I told her exactly what it entails. She doesn't really want to do it. And Barion...he really doesn't want her to do it. Kiss another woman as she would him? I can empathize with him. Ferrit wasn't too thrilled when it was me. And I'm not sure I would like it if Ferrit were asked. I will have to watch Sa'kura closely to see if she is honest about the A'Dose Min Im'Taro Desiir. She is a little Hesitant...but she says she does it for Treana.
Barion has good reason to be...concerned. He proposed to Sa'kura the other day. They haven't set a date...but he is now worried about Sa'kura and her duties. I hope they will get through this.
Elgon Merrick wants to see Jenna. Said he needed to apologize to her. What for...I didn't ask. He seems a good sort. I will need to talk to Jenna about him. See what is going on.
Quantum Windword will pay me 10,000 gold sovreigns for 40 hickory shafts...better get started with that...
-
Addison....why you?
Why did you have to go and get killed? And leave little Calvin an orphan?
Addison was killed for the last time in the underdark. This is what Treana and Anna told me in Hlint last night. That she died fighting Illithid. Even Ferrit was shocked at the news. We just stood in the kitchen of the Wild Surge...holding on to each other...crying. Addison was a strong...beautiful...caring friend. We will miss her terribly.
Treana is broken-hearted. And I feel I'm responsible. I mean...I was involved three times in her wedding...and three times it ended in sadness. I fear I am a curse upon her. I must stay away from her or she may have something evil befall her.
And I will not be the cause of anymore sadness for her...
-
So...I'm not a curse on her after all...
Treana can be very...candid. After noticing my trying to keep my distance...she made me realize that it was just bad luck...karma...call it what you will. She told me that it was 4 times for her...so if anyone was cursed...it would be her. We just chuckled a bit. And then she hugged me for emphasis...little Calvin watching from behind her skirt. My...he is getting big. Growing like a weed. Pretty soon...he will be able to challenge me. Heh...
We had a meeting in Roldem. To discuss what needed to be done. And a lot needs to be done. Building supplies...blankets...food...training...we have our work cut out for us. We will manage.
Now...to get started on those shafts...
-
I feel close to mastering my katana...
I have been practicing my strikes...and can now perform the Whirlwind. And I can now block with a counter strike as well. I'm not sure if anyone can truly master a weapon...but I am close to making mine a part of me. I need to find a mentor...Addy...*tear stain*...was my de facto mentor. And she was to introduce me to her mentor. But now...I'm back to searching for one.
I now...not only train for Ferrit...but I train now in memory of Addison Scarlace. One Master...to another...
-
Bureaucratic nonsense...
I must put my name as Guild Leader to give Rain his wish of running a guild....even if my leadership is temporary. It seems Rain is not seasoned enough to be a leader according to the Town Council. I am in my 12th season and according to the Council fit to run the guld. I will do this...because Rain is my friend.
That said...I have to confess...Ferrit and I talked to Kharl Drake of the Orc Bashers. It was a time when Rain was a little too careless...the Soul Mother paid him a visit on Dregar. It would be a tragedy if he were to succumb to her just after getting the guild up and running. However...the restrictions the Orc Bashers would place on us would be a little excessive to us and we won't be joining them. Besides...I'm not one to bail out on a friend. Ferrit and I will be much happier with Rain.
Rain was relieved at that news. Elgon had caught us talking with Drake and told Rain. He was so morose when I found him in Hlint. He told me he will be more cautious in the future and that was enough for me and Ferrit to tell him we would stay.
And now I know why Jenna is in such good spirits lately...
She is in love. With Elgon Merrick. No wonder he is nervous around me. Heh...I could have a little fun with this...but Jenna will be mortified. I wonder though why she hasn't told me about him?
I'll have to talk to her...
-
I have impressed Barion...
With my Whirlwind. The move Addison had shown me and I practiced many times. Barion was so impressed that he will show me some tricks of his own. But...he also bade me to seek out Jet so that he can pick up where Addison left off. However...no one can replace Addison. I will do this. I trust Barion's word on this because as a Master is a Master...no matter what blade he wields.
I will train hard with Jet. And maybe Ferrit can come along and hone her skill with her rapier. Then we can protect each other for the hard times ahead. The gods know we will need it.
Jenna left word that she wishes to see me. I wonder what it could be about...
-
Jenna finally told me about her and Elgon...
Not that it came as a surprise...Rain had already told me. But I tried to fake it. Did a good job too...Jenna didn't suspect that I knew. I just let her stumble over her words...being nervous. I don't know why eirhter of them would be...Jenna is my little sister but isn't a little girl anymore.
Well...after letting her rant on...I told her I already knew. She punched my arm....annoyed that I would let her make a fool of herself. But eventually I told her to be careful...that Elgon being a warrior puts him in dangerous places at times. Then I paid for the drinks and left after giving Jenna a hug. She seemed relieved. And happy. I hope Elgon keeps her from trouble.
Heh...I caught Elgon at the Craft House. And I couldn't help myself. I put the poor sod though the wringer. Played the protective big brother...looking out for his kid sister. Even to the point of resting my hand on the hilt of my katana. And Jenna is right...he is cute when he is all nervous. Heh. But...in all fairness...I think his feelings for Jenna are genuine. I won't stand in the way. As long as Elgon is the man I believe him to be...Jenna should be fine.
I must find Quantum. His oak shafts are waiting...
-
I think something is happening to Elgon...
He claims his sword...his father's...has a life of its own. He says it is jealous when he held my katana for a few moments. I even cut myself when I held Elgon's blade. Something I should never have been able to do. He is also filled with blood lust...a wanton desire to bring death to orcs in particular. Rain and I were beside ourselves. Rain is of the opinion that he would not hurt Jenna...but blood lust knows no friend or foe at times. I am afraid for my little sister.
Rain and I will have to find out more about the deaths of Elgon's parents. Something just doesn't feel right about this.
I must keep a close eye on Elgon. And on Jenna. I have a very bad feeling about this...
-
Kyle rises early...dresses and kisses Ferrit on the forehead. He goes toward the portal room where he sees the letter under the front door. He picks it up and reads it.
So...Rain seems to have things under control....
And the sword indeed an instrument of control. And I agree...Elgon must learn to master it....before it masters him. I will do my best to teach him what Addison had taught me...and someday...when I have truly mastered my own blade...I can pass that on to Elgon. That and with the meditations that Rain is teaching him...we may have a chance at saving him.
But I am still not convinced that Jenna is truly safe. But from what this letter said...Elgon is fine without his sword. I shall watch him carefully. I will not stop Jenna from seeing him. But if any evil befalls her because of that sword...
-
Time to catch up with my thoughts...
We found the city of Estibana. We had to sail from Saudira and were attacked by pirates. We killed them...but not before they had killed our captain and a good portion of the crew. So...Rhynn took over and I volunteered to be one of her crew. Not a smart move. I fell out of the rigging...almost killing myself. I tried to go back up...but I guess the fall affected me...as I froze and couldn't climb up. After embarrassing myself...I won't say how...I climbed down only to help Rhynn steer the ship after a squall had started to blow the ship off course. There is a vortex over Estibana and we decided to mark the position on our maps for a return trip. Needless to say...I will stay as far from the rigging as I can...
I got a hold of some platinum. Can't make armor with it yet...so I'll try to make a composite oak shortbow. It won't be as good as the mahogany...but Ferrit will love it anyway.
I need to take Elgon to the arena for training. I think things are getting serious between him and Jenna...and he needs to master that sword of his.
I hope he has the will to be a master...
-
I should stay more with the group or else I may lose the one thing that means the world to me...
Ferrit. We started a trek around Dregar...and we did very well. Until I needed to leave them to go back home. Now...Ferrit is a grown woman and she is capable of taking care of herself...but after I kissed her goodbye and went home...he heard she fell to an ambush of undead Drow. I felt horrible for leaving her. Maybe if only I had been there...lucky Sh'anda was able to raise her. And she didn't see the Soul Mother either. From now on...I shall make an effort to be at her side until she is safe. Then I will rest a little easier.
Elgon is becoming more skilled in battle...
It is a pleasure really to battle at his side. He is learning quickly. However...he is still prone to a little blood lust and I had to all but restrain him in Haven. Maybe it is the sword starting to assert itself...or maybe he is trying hard to impress me. He doesn't have to impress me.
Maybe some day he will be a Master...
-
Addison's memorial was...interesting...
Caniel Scarlace...Addy's mother...went on a rant about how we weren't truly her freinds...that Treana didn't really love her....lots of 'nice' things. Even threatened to take Calvin away from Treana. But...that was just a mother's grief talking. She eventually recanted and we all shared fond memories of Addison.
Addy had left me something in her will. An adamantium katana with a 3rd circle enchantment of cold. Her katana. I am not yet able to wield such power...but as she bade me in her will...I will 'grow into' the weapon. And everytime I wield it...I know Addison will be with me in spirit. I will miss her.
I must rest. The guild has been approved and i must get it ready quickly...
-
A friend is hurting...
Rain thinks Sonya is about to leave him. She had read his journal and that with her feeling tied down has made him believe she is ready to run away. Rain had told me she feels that life is passing her by now...and Rain believes that the babies and he are holding her back. I don't think she will leave...she loves Rain and the babies too much.
Add that to the fact that Rain caught her and Mercas talking in private...well...he assumed the worst. It took a talking to by me...Ferrit and Elgon to convince him that if he doesn't talk to Sonya soon...he will lose her. And that he said he cannot bear. I think he is off to find Mercas...who has exiled himself to Dregar because of all this. He had left the group in the Ajari and it cost Rain his life once and almost cost Jenna hers. I will have to speak with Mercas on his impatience.
The guild is starting to become a family...and I must do my best to see it stay together. Family is family...
-
All is well with Rain and Sonya...
Rain went to Dregar to find Sonya and Mercas. But it was Sonya who found him...and from the look on Rain's face...they have patched things up between them. Ferrit and I both thought he was going to do something rash...but we were wrong. And we are glad we were.
My training with the katana has suffered a bit. I must get back to practicing else I'll never become a Master and be able to teach Elgon how to control his blood lust. Addison was going to introduce me to her mentor...but she died before we could meet. I wonder if Treana knows who it was and can set up a meeting...
Kyle grabs his katana and heads to 150 Krandor to make use of the training dummy there.
-
The guild is starting to shape up...
We have hired Barion Firesteed as a freelance weaponssmith for 5% of the selling price. And he offers some tips on how Raven ran things. That will help us greatly as we are just starting out. We did well in getting him. If he works out we will raise his commission.
And...we also agreed to let Mith sell his items through us. He will also make Wands of Stoneskin for us...provided we supply the materials for him. But...I'm not so sure I like the idea given I don't trust him. He will only deal with Ferrit...which makes me trust him even less. We will have to see.
I will keep telling Ferrit how much I love her and hope that is enough...
-
This is written on a new page the page before has fallen out for some reason
How could I be so stupid...
I almost lost Ferrit today. Not to death...but to mistrust and fear. My mistrust of Mith and fear that he is triyng to take Ferrit from me has made me forget that it is Ferrit I trust. And I do trust her....unconditionally and totally. And I hurt her.
And I hope I can truly make it up to her. And then I hope she will see that I am the same good man she loves and married...
The ink trails off...with a tear stain at the end.
-
I must return to Vanavar...
Mother has taken ill and may leave this world. This means I must leave the guild in the hands of my beloved Ferrit. It will only be a few days...but it will seem like an eternity. I love Ferrit so much...and wish she could be there by my side. But she is the only other of the Guild Council that has the seasons to run things. She will do a great job...I trust her completely.
I must find Jenna. She needs to be there too. I'll have to talk to the magistrate to allow her to return for this. However...how will the rest of the family receive her...
-
Mother is resting comfortably...
The healers took good care of her and I am able to return to Mistone and Ferrit. There is one thing that puzzles me...this illness came upon her so suddenly. It is odd. She was as healthy as an ox. I asked the healers to find out the cause so we can avoid it in the future.
I really don't like Mith now. Seems he sold Rhynn...Lillian...and some girl Ralinda into slavery in the underdark. Rhynn escaped by killing herself...risking the Soul Mother's notice...and coming back via the bindstone. And now I hear the Drow are looking for her. Mith says he had no choice...they would have been killed had they not been. I will reserve judgement. Ferrit seems to believe him..and I trust her insticnts. Let's hope Mith means it when he says they will be rescued.
Gods help him if he is lying...
-
We now own Lia's...no...OUR house...
Lia is off for parts unknown and we don't know if we will see her again. We promised to take care of her horse...Wildfire...while she was away. We will. As if he were our own. We will miss Lia.
After settling in we went around Mistone. To the Dire Woods and the topaz caves near there. Sonya was using the oak heavy crossbow I made her. Rain is getting an ability. He can direct his arrows in mid-flight...striking his target even if it looks like a clean miss. That is an ability that will be very useful. Jil is teaching him well.
I must go back home for a while. There is still some things to unpack and use...
-
There is something eating at me about Mother's illness...
It was so sudden and so life threatening that Jenna believes it isn't a natural illness. But who could want Mother dead? She has no enemies I could think of. It is very puzzling and disturbing. I pray it doesn't happen again.
Kyle puts down the quill as he sees a note being slid under the front door. He goes over and reads it. He writes some more.
Ach...another order for armor. I'm being pulled in a thousand different directions. But my thoughts are still wih Mother...
-
I am getting so afraid for my Ferrit and the rest of the guild family...
They went to Firesteep today. Rain...Elgon...Ferrit...Dora...Serissa Tir'ein...and Barion. And all fell...including Barion. The Soul Mother was waiting there. Dora...Elgon...and Barion had strands taken from them. That means Barion is on his last thread. Sa'kura will not be happy about it. Not with their wedding coming up soon. And Elgon. He too is on his last thread. HE better take it easy or he will make Jenna a widow even before they get married. The Soul Mother got her money's worth today.
So much death there today. I fear for Ferrit. Even though she was careful...the chance of her losing her strands is ever present. And I don't know what I'd do if she lost the rest of hers. All we can do is try to hold the Soul Mother back for as long as we can.
For now...I will hold Ferrit close as we sleep tonight. Her warmth always makes me feel that she will always be with me...
-
We have finished the deal with Mith...
And I hope these wands will benefit all of us. And...truth be told...I hope we won't be needing Mith's services too soon in the future. He is an oddball. And I still don't trust him too much.
Ferrit and I had talked about children a while ago. We had decided that the time wasn't right and that we should wait...
But that has changed. Rain had brought Sarah to Hlint...and we all got to hold her. Ferrit is a natural. Her beaming smile as she cooed and blew kisses at Sarah was the most beautiful smile I ever seen from her. And when Rain had left with Sarah...Ferrit told me something that at first took my breath away.
She wants a baby. Told me that she even stopped taking the herbs that the healer in the temple gave her...so it will be a while. She told me she was thinking about it ever since Rain and Sonya had the twins. So was I. A child will be the ultimate expression of our love for each other.
I know Ferrit will be a teriffic mother...and Ilsare willing...I hope I will be a teriffic father...
-
Elgon can't marry Jenna yet...
He has already been promised to another. The only reason I found out is because his cousin...Lance...brought him news of his impending marriage. I was angered. That he would keep something like this from Jenna...
He tells me he dosen't intend to go through with it. That he doesn't recognize the 'arraingment'. And that Jenna is his life and his heart. I believe him. And he must go and resolve this before he marries Jenna. And he must tell her this. All of it. He tells me he must fight the brother of the intended to be released. A fight to the death.
With one more strand of his soul...he takes the chance of losing it and not coming back. And that will devastate Jenna. Elgon is a capable warrior...but even with the training I've given him...it is a differnt thing in battle. Anything could happen.
He must be careful. There is much at stake here...
-
Barion and Sa'kura's wedding was a day to remember...
Sa'kura was a beautiful bride. Almost as beautiful as Ferrit was at ours...but I'm a little biased. Sa'kura was radiant in her gown. And Barion was dapper in his tux. During the ceremony...I couldn't stop thinking about Ferrit. About how our love has grown over the past few years....and we are so happy with one another. And I wish the same for Barion and Sa'kura.
And...I thought of Jenna. By now...Elgon must have told her about the 'arraingment'. She must be beside herself. I haven't seen her at all lately. I must find her and see if she is alright.
And then there is this Lance. When he told me of this...I was angry. And I may have misdirected it to him. He seems to be what he claims. A messenger...delivering bad news. It was that crack about Jenna being 'wild oats' that got me annoyed wih him. If I see him...I will give him his due respect.
Now...where is Jenna? Have to go to the Wild Surge to see if she is in her room...
-
Happy news all around...
First...Elgon has gotten out of his arrainged marriage. This clears the way for him and Jenna. And I'll let him tell her. It will lift her spirits greatly. And Elgon seems to be relieved as well.
And now the happiest news yet so far...
Ferrit is going to have our baby. It explains the nausea she was feeling. And Drogo being a druid...confirmed it with his special relationship with nature. Said she smells like a wolf about to have cubs. And I trust Drogo's perceptions.
This is the best expression of our love for each other. And...I know in my heart that Ferrit will be a terrific mother. As I hope to be the kind of father our child will look up to. I love Ferrit so much...and now...I will have a child that I will love just as much as I do her.
Now...I must work harder. I will have a family to support now...
-
Where to start now...
First....we almost lost the baby. A trip to Shindlaria's Temple went totally wrong when amulets that helped us breathe underwater failed. We used a cauldron as a diving bouy to return to the surface with a water elemental pushing it. We rose too fast...and all died of the bends. Silas raised us but something was wrong with the baby!!! Ferrit was doubled over in pain and couldn't feel the baby's usual movements. I was frantic...I pleaded for help and thank the gods that Rawkin was with us. He prayed and prayed and laid hands on Ferrit's stomach. He saved the baby!!! I will ever be grateful to Rawkin. Maybe if the baby is a boy...
Second...A subject that drives me crazy. Mith. Seems I didn't do too well a job of hiding my mistrust for him...despite the promise I made to Ferrit. He keeps giving things that offer far better protection that I could give Ferrit. He cares about her he says...but has no intention of taking her from me. I don't know whether to believe that or not. It's just his reputaion in the past and the way he acts...being invisible when he is near Ferrit. Poking her when he wants. And giving her things that offer far better protection than I could. Makes me feel that I can't protect her to his satisfaction. It drives me insane.
And now...Ferrit wants him to be godfather to our child. I reluctantly agreed to it. Since Ferrit trusts him...I will go along with it.
If he does anything to betray that trust...I will...There is a tear the size of a dagger after the last sentence.
-
Broegar must go...
The 'execution' wasn't for Freldo...Alantha...Jharl...Katrein...Jacciri or Kobal. The whole thing was a set up. Broegar granted clemency to them only to have 'accidents' happen to Princess Kayana and Shaviro Palma. The executioner's axe 'slipped' and beheaded Shaviro and the guard was 'defending' Broegar from Princess Kayana. Since all the accused barely had any clothes on and no weapons...it is highly unlikely he was in any danger whatsoever.
The whole thing was set up to show he was 'benevolent'. *elven expletive* It was a grave injustice was done last night...and he must me made to answer for it. But how?
Happier note...
Our baby's birth draws near. A few more months and our baby will be born. And finally something we can be happy over. Ilsare knows that we need it after what we just saw...
-
Four more weeks...hopefully...
That's when Ferrit is due to give birth. And she can't wait. She wants so much to go venturing with me again she is getting cabin fever. All she can do really is craft the basic things. She cut her hand so she can't do the intricate work until it heals. Poor thing. I go around collecting the things she needs so she can keep busy. It's the least I can do.
Sala Stonehill has agreed to be midwife when the time comes. I am glad becuase she did such a good job with Rain and Sonya...I feel better knowing that Sala is there. But she says that the first borns are usually late so Ferrit may have to wait a little longer.
Not too much longer I hope...
-
We didn't wait too long...we have a son!!!
Cole Pandorn was born today on Decilar 19, 1405. He is just perfect. And he could exactly wait to be born either. Ferrit started having pains in the morning...and by the afternoon...well we barely made it back to the house. We didn't even have time to find Sala...so I had to deliver Cole myself with Rain's help.
Now that was a sight...me...taking instruction from Rain while Ferrit was giving birth. But everything went well...and now Ferrit and Cole are resting in the bed. I have to set the crib up in the nursery. I'm tired so I'll finish writing in the morning. I'll set up a cot next to the bed.
Kyle goes into the bed room and smiles as he sees Ferrit and Cole sleeping in the bed. He goes over and leans to kiss Ferrit on the forehead first...then Cole. he climbs into the cot next to the bed and snuffs the candle on the nightstand out and drifts off to sleep...smiling.
-
We have restored the balance somewhat...
We travelled to the Serpent Mountains after a side trip to the Bay of Carcosa. There we lost Rhynn to a fit of frustration. I didn't even get to talk to her. She just ported out without another word. At the Serpent Mountains...we came across a sphinx surrounded by 6 orbs and a trio of musical intsruments surrounded by runes on top of a rise overlooking it. We determined that each orb and rune in the circle represents a different school of the Weave. Jharl had to really tax his musical abilities to get them active. It was a time I have to say wish we had Freldo. But Jharl did an excellent job.
Seens that a pair of guardians were damming a waterfall and Jharl's song and active globes broke it and restored the waterfall to its natural flow. Lin'da felt 'perfect balance' as the water began to flow freely. Our next stop seems to be Sandstone. A place I'll not soon forget.
Balance...I felt a little balanced too. I kept thinking of Ferrit and Cole...and life. I felt...at peace. Even if it were for a few moments. If this is what is to be done after this...it is well worth the effort...
-
*Kyle looks over at the crib and smiles at the sleeping Cole.*
He is growing so fast...
He is almost 6 months old now...and is picking his head up and looking around. We will have to fashion some sort of backpack just to carry him around with us. Heh...before we know it...we will be chasing him around Krandor or Hlint. I look at him and more and more he reminds me of Ferrit. He has her eyes. Bright and inquisitive.
He will be somebody someday. Ferrit and I will teach him what he needs to know to survive in the world today. With the climate shifting...Rain tells me the snows have reached Pranzis...I refuse to call it what Broegar calls it...and it may reach further south in Mistone too.
But back to Cole...As I told Mith...he will choose his own calling. No one will influence him. But...heh...if he should take up the katana...
*Cole stirs and Kyle goes over replaces the blanket over him. He kisses his forehead and joins a sleeping Ferrit in their bedroom. He snuffs the candle and drifts off to sleep.*
-
Seems she has finally started to pick on us Pandorns...
The Soul Mother. I fell to a Fire Drake that chased me on Dregar. And for the second time...I felt the stinging cold touch of the Soul Mother. She is starting to take notice of everyone...and I am worried.
Jenna tells me she had her first encounter with the wench. Scared the wits out of her. And pained her. As if the witch put an extra hurting on her. Now...Jenna barely comes out to venture. I must talk to her and tell her that she will do more harm than good just moping around. Can't be afraid of what might be...
This might be a sign of changing times. Storan was seen outside his crypt. Accompanied by stronger undead. This is really serious. Ozy speculates ther may be a blood pool under Storan's crypt. If true...I shudder to think about it. Elgon fell 3 times to him...no Soul Mother thank Ilsare. Now...Storan's is locked. We must tread carefully around there.
This is a bad omen....
-
*A very drunk and very angry hand writes this page.*
Curse you Elgon...
He fell for the last time in that cave in the Forest of Mists. And the Soul Mother jumped at the opportunity to take him from us. He leaves a void in all of us now...especially Jenna. She hasn't come out of her room in the Wild Surge. She did tell me that they planned to elope. That they were going to surprise us when they got back. But now...a funeral. A funeral that leaves a bitter taste in everyone's mouth. We will all miss him terribly.
Poor Jenna...to lose him...I don't know what to say to her. I want to say something...anything to ease the hurt.
Curse you Elgon...
-
We have done something amazing...
We have healed the avatar of Shindelaria. Or at least restored the balance with a new avatar. Seems that Mist killed the old one and this newer one was weakened. That is what this whole ordeal was about. To restore Mother Ocean and the balance. Mist will not be to thrilled with that...but it serves her right to be thwarted. For our efforts...we were endowed gifts. I received a powerful weapon. The Spear of the Keeper's Guard. It burns the target with acid while making my mind better focused on my attack. Not my weapon of choice as my katana...but one doesn't complain when a goddess gives you a gift. I will use it as a secondary weapon. She also gave me a necklace that will heal as well as keep my body from disease.
We have done something good for Layonara. It was worth the struggle.
Kat Hommel and Jharl asked me for a huge favor. 25 large iron shields...possibly more. At 1500 coins a shield...this is a huge deal. I have already made half of them and should have the other half by month's end.
With all those shields...I can't help but wonder...
-
Rain has honored me...
He has asked me to train Tristan in the katana. So I made him a padded katana out of oak. I will try to show him how to hold it..how to strike with it...but being 3 years old...he may think it is all play. When he gets older...I will make him a blade that he will grow into. Just like the one Addison left to me to grow into.
And he will make both Rain and me proud of him....I won't let Rain down...
I have almost all of the shields made for Kat. Jharl took a partial delivery so I may free space in the house. Just another run for iron and it will be finished.
I am still wondering why they need so many shields at one time. Guess I'll find out soon enough...
-
I think I was a little wrong about Tristan...
3 years old and already shows some skill with the padded katana. His motions aren't fluid...he is only 3...but he shows promise even at such a young age. He does get a little frustrated as he cannot touch me yet...but it is the only way he will learn how to strike. I teach him kata as a way to move...and he seems to enjoy that. A few more years and I may...just may...give him a blade to train with. But that is still a long way off.
The contract with Kat is finished. Jharl took the last of the shields and paid in full. This already put us up quite a bit for the cycle. Jharl has told me there may be more to come...he will contact myself or Ferrit if he needs to.
But...I can't help wonder what I've gotten us into...
-
Sa'kura is in denial...
She has been ill for a while...and eating like there is no tomorrow. I found her in the kitchen of the Surge with Eghass Treebringer. The way she is feeling...the way she is acting. It is the same way Ferrit was when she was pregnant. The same way Jenna is now. Sa'kura may be pregnant.
But..I don't think she wants to be. She steadfastly says she can't be. Doesn't think she is a fit parent. I told her a few times to see a healer or Drogo at least. She will.
But I fear that she will not like what they will say to her. And I hope when Barion finds out he will support her with all the love he has for her.
And I hope she doesn't do anything rash...
-
Another of us has fallen to the Soul Mother...
Mercas will not be among us anymore. He fell in the same place that Elgon did. The Forest of Mists seems to be a cursed place for us. I found his will in his house. He left all he has to the guild for Rain to distribute as he sees fit. And to take his brother Omer into the guild as well.
Dora was supposed to have been there with him. That is two of us that perished in her presence. This must be weighing on her. Rain isn't too happy with her now. But that will pass. We are family...and no matter what we stick together.
I just hope Dora won't do anything she will regret. Or us...
-
They say good things come in threes...
Rain and Sonya didn't have twins. They had triplets. Their own little guild. Heh. Delivered where I delivered Cole. And...Jenna is due soon. Very soon.
Life seems to be going on. Even as that cloud above us reminds us of the hard future yet to come.
There is a Voice on the wind...
Everyone is getting this newsletter called 'The Voice'. The voice of those who won't or better yet can't speak out against Broegar. In it...it tries to bare the truth about Broegar and his 'reign' in Dregar. This first one told of the murder of Queen Kayana and Shivro Palma.
Maybe this will stir others....
-
I am an uncle...
Jenna gave birth a few days ago. Krindo Merrick Pandorn. After my father and the name she would have taken had Elgon had not died. In fact had Rain not beaten her to it...she would have named him Elgon. But Krindo is a proud name. Of a proud warrior. Father and Mother will be quite happy...after they get over the inital shock of Jenna being with child.
Another gathering trip to Dregar. And this time no one died on a trip with Dora. I guess she is finally learning to not be so reckless when it comes to battle. That patience and calm under stress is key to surviving these trips. It has always worked for Ferrit and me.
And Rain has reconciled with the Great Phoenix. The deity of the batbarian tribe whose women and children he slaughtered in a blind rage due to his curse. We had to rid the barbarian's land of huge worms. It was a simple enough task and when Rain was done speaking to the Great Phoenix...there was a calm in his eyes...a sense of relief in his walk. The look of inner peace of sorts. He hasn't rid himself of his curse...but I don't see it manifesting itself much anymore.
I must go see Jenna and my new nephew...
-
Something's wrong...
Rain told me that Serissa Tir'ein told him that someone he knows is pregnant again and Ferrit had fainted in Saudira for some unknown reason. We should watch Ferrit that we are working her too hard.
She can't be pregnant. We would have known by now. And now...I haven't seen Ferrit in a few days. It is worrying me sick. What if she is really sick and I'm not there for her?
She is my world...I am...*ale stain*
-
I have been busy so long...time to catch up...
First...Ferrit is ok. Must have been overwork from make her leathers...potions...what have you. She does get overwhelmed and not even my helping her gets her out from under. The recent clean up has forced her to craft a tremendous amount of things and she just didn't want to lose any of the resources she has collected. So...she was a little...testy. Now that it is over...we can get back to normal.
Tristan has settled down now. After my little demonstration on how deadly a katana can be. He was whacking Rain in the legs with the padded one...leaving welts and bruises all over Rain's legs. Rain was worried that he would hit his new brother or sisters with it so I stepped in to teach Tristan a lesson. I took Tristan outside behind the house in Krandor...where I had set up a piece of bear meat on a stump. Afer first telling him that he cannot use the padded blade without me there...he started to carry on...until in one motion I spun around and sliced the meat in two parts...one falling to the floor near Tristan's feet. Now I told him imagine that being his father's legs...or his brothers body. And until he learns control he will not get a real blade to work with. It seemed to do the trick. Rain now says he hasn't been hit in a long while.
Little Krindo is getting big for a 4 month old. Another warrior for me to train I guess. But that is for Jenna to decide I think. Back to work for me I guess...
-
We have been stricken...
The disaster form Hurm has brought a new peril...plague. Ferrit had been going through Hurm when it happened and contracted a plague. Which she in turn gave to me. Then Omer...Daniel..and Jako fell to it. Rain shows no signs...but is requested to quarantine himself to be sure. Ferrit is blaming herself for giving it to us...but how in the Nine Hells could she have known she would be bringing back a plague? And she wasn't the only one to have been in Hurm. Anyone could have given her the plague.
Cole has been declared free of it. That is a relief!!! Jenna wrote me and said she and Krindo were clean...he will stay with her. Poor Cole. To be apart form us. It is tearing Ferrit and me apart. At least we will be together thoughout this ordeal. At least Ferrit will not have to face this alone. We pray to the gods for a cure...but you know how healers are so vague about these things. It seems like the gods have turned their backs on us. Maybe it's useless to follow them.
I am getting tired. Ferrit is already asleep. It must be the sickness affecting us...
*As Kyle finishes writing this entry...he feels a warm slight breeze at his back. Then the breeze gets stronger...feeling like a hug. A hug he has received many times before. A familiar...carefree hug. Turning...he catches a scent. The scent of Sa'kura's perfume. Seeing no one there...he shrugs and heads for bed. The scent fades away as Kyle shuts his bedroom door.*
-
The days just run into one another...
Jenna leaves food and fresh clothes outside the door. It breaks mine and Ferrit's hearts to hear Cole cry that he wants to see us...but he cannot. He will get this forsaken plague. Ferrit want to grab Cole and hold him close but it takes every ounce of my ebbing strength to keep her from doing that. All we can do is hope for a cure. Then we will be together again.
I heard a noise early this morning. I got up and went towards the front of the house. I passed the couches where Rain usually sleeps and I didn't see him there. I went to see if he was getting some food when it dawned on me...
Rain has gone from the house!!! Is he insane??? He will infect everyone he comes in contact with. Blast it!!! I can't follow. Hope he isn't fixing to go to Hurm. The fool...
Maybe this plague affects out judgements...
*Kyle finishes writing and swearing at Rain under his breath...goes back to the bedroom and rejoins a sleeping Ferrit*
-
I take back what I said about following the gods being useless...
Seems Rain wasn't going to infect anyone. Plenarius Ashely had cured him. With some divine magics. Then he went around curing us as we awoke. Seems Jenna had posted a plea for help in the Surge...and Plen just happened to see it. I must do something special for Jenna. She may have just saved our lives.
And Cole was so happy to see us. He literally jumped up into our arms when I went to get him from Jenna. We are together again. Just as I had said.
But...there will be others who won't be sharing moments like these. They will succumb to the illness before a mass cure can be found. Ferrit...Rain...myself and a few others are gathering food and clothes to help the people of Hurm. We need to help as much as we can.
Well...back to work. Hurm needs our help...
-
I can't believe it...
Sa'kura is dead!!! I find this out on the bulletin board of the Wild Surge. I...am stunned. She was supposed to be taking it careful. I...she was like a sister to me. I remember the first time I met her. I remember her pink hair flowing and her laugh as she described the problem she had with the gobos near Bagira. We went there only to have me fall there too. I knew from then on we would be good friends.
Come to think of it...the other night while I was under quarantine...I could have sworn I felt a hug from behind as I wrote in my journal. Sa' used to hug me a lot and this felt just like one of them. And I caught the smell of her perfume. But there was no one there. I thought it might be the plague affecting my mind...so I just shrugged it off. Now...I think Sa' paid me a visit before going to oblivion. Gods....I will miss her.
The notice said she will be waked in Haven. I'll be sure to drag Ferrit down there with me. Barion needs the support right now...
-
*Kyle sits at his table...writing his journal. He looks over at a sleeping Ferrit and smiles*
Ferrit wants to have another baby...
A brother or sister for Cole. It would be good for Cole to have a sibling...someone of his own generation. Ferrit and I won't be around forever...so he will need family to go to for help and support if need be. I would like another child...for I have brothers and sisters and I feel it is right for Cole to have one as well.
Daniel has submitted himself for 'trial' in Velensk. A trial by all standards would be a farce in the least. He has done nothing to warrant treason charges. He has upheld the ideals of the Gold Dragon to the best of his abilities. And I don't even follow Rofirein.
I just hope something can be found in their own law which would expose it for the kangaroo court it is...
*Kyle puts down the quill...checks on Cole with a kiss to the forehead and returns to the bedroom to a sound asleep Ferrit. A kiss on her forehead and Kyle settles in and goes to sleep.*
-
There are times when words just don't cut it...
I finally caught up to Barion. Of course I extended mine and Ferrit's sympathies...but the words sounded so...inadequate. Here is a man whose been through a lot...losing Shelu...then thinking he lost Sabrissa...and now losing Sa'kura. That and the Church of Rofirein charging him with treason as well...my words must have sounded like a jabbering fool. I usually say time will mend all....but how much more can one man take. Barion now has Abigail...and I hope that she will give his heart happiness.
There was an odd kind of break in at Ranewin's house at 146 Krandor...
Nothing was taken according to her...but the place was totally trashed. Bookshevles turned over...windows broken...furniture smashed. Ferrit and I drew the only conclusion possible...someone has a huge grudge against Ranewin. Ranewin told us of a sister and this fellow who were angry with her 20 years ago...I at first was amazed at the length of time of this possible grudge...but I forget...Ranewin and her family are elves. 20 years is hardly a long time to them. Ranewin wasn't home at the time of the break in...and we feel she would have been killed if she was. The only thing to do is wait and watch. And ask this guy...Vhalkyn Lhaunvris...someone who Ranewin describes as rude and nasty...if he knows anything. Why a total stranger would want to trash Ranewin's house is a mystery.
Ranewin is now living in Lar with her fiancee Trysk. She should be safe there. Still....no sense in telling anyone who asks where she is. Next time....Ranewin may not be that lucky...
-
*Kyle walks into his house...holding his left arm. Looking around to see if anyone is home and finding no one...removes his armor revealing a huge purple welt. Wincing...he goes into the bedroom and puts some aloe oil and takes a heal potion from his pouch. The welt and soreness start to fade.*
Well...seems I am a good teacher after all...
And Tristan is coming along well. Taught him how to parry and defensively attack. Either he is getting quicker...or I am getting older and slower. He is showing control in his strikes now...because not only did he parry one of my attacks...his riposte attack actually got through and gave me this welt. And he is strong...soon I'll have to give him a real weapon to train with. He almost shattered the practice one attacking me. I'll have to hide this welt for a few days. My reputation as a master is at stake...heh. Good thing it wasn't a blade.
He is also good with the bow. That would be his father's teachings. I am partial to the katana...but to master a second weapon could never hurt. Tristan will be a good warrior someday.
I have to bandgae my arm before Ferrit sees it. She'll never let me live it down...
-
Foolish...foolish....foolish...
And it cost me dearly. Rain wants to get the guild involved with the relief effort in Roldem. Building supplies...food...that sort of thing. So...I went to get some oak for planks and staves. I get to the High Forest and finding no bugs nearby...I went to work. No sooner than I turn my back...the bugs appeared out of the woods and decsended on me. I fell...and had a little talk with the Soul Mother. This would be my third such meeting and it brings me that much closer to...well...I'm not going to think about that.
From now on...I only try for the one tree if I'm alone. The others if Daniel or Rain or Ferrit are with me. I will not make Cole fatherless. And I will not leave Ferrit alone. Not if I can help it.
Daniel's trial was today. Since I was otherwise occupied...I couldn't attend. I hope he got a fair one and they will see the folly of their 'Edict 33'. I will have to ask him on his return.
Well...need to get more oak for sandpaper. I need to take some revenge on those blasted bugs...
-
It takes the loss of a friend to put everything in perspective...
Ash Willo was claimed by the Soul Mother. She came to Hlint around the same time as I...and she was a true friend to me. But I can't help but feel a little ashamed. Here I am...worried about my third meeting with the Soul Mother...and Ash has lost her soul forever now. And I still have a lot of life left in me. Which I will live to the fullest...but not get reckless. It will be the only way to do things.
Daniel's honor was restored when that silly Edict 33 was recinded by Reus...High Priest of Rofirein. The change in Daniel's demeanor was drastic. A renewed sense of honor and valor shine as brightly as the golden armor he now wears. He is fearless now. But I will still caution him on recklessness. Just like what happened to me could happen to him. And I can't have that happen to the Armorcrafter in the guild.
I must get back to making planks. More are needed for Roldem...
-
Rain is worried...
He believes he is losing Sonya. He says Sonya's mood has changed and her clothing has gotten more revealing. Her general demeanor is more...happier her clothes changed. I know...it sounds like a paradox...why would Rain be worried if Sonya was happy? I believe Rain thinks Sonya has found love with another and will leave. With who...he doesn't know. It is like the time he thought Sonya and Mercas were together behind his back. And I know how wrong he was about that. Although he says he trusts her...still the doubt in his mind is tearing him apart.
He believes he has neglected her. And that they are not alone for long without the guild or the kids interfering with their intimacy. It was then I told him to just steal away with her...just the two of them...free from the guild and yes the kids as well. And just be together. Dalan...Daniel and I had to literally twist his arm to accept gifts from us he said he promised to Sonya...but with all the flowers he bought...he was low on funds. Him and his silly pride. It may be what is getting between him and Sonya.
But...he was wrong about her and Mercas...and I think he is wrong about her now. Only time will tell...
-
It appears I was right...
Rain was wrong about Sonya. She is back and they now have some privacy in their house. Rain built a dividing wall to make a room for them. I hope this makes them happy.
As I am now...
Ferrit is with child again. A brother or sister for Cole. Ferrit is hoping for a girl...and to tell the truth...so am I. But boy or girl...this baby will be loved no less. I must make a bed for Cole now...since he is outgrowing his crib...which will be for the new baby soon.
I'm tired...I'll write more tomorrow...
-
The Forest of Mists is a cursed place for us...
We almost all fell to the giants in the cave. The usual tactic of lure and strike just didn't work. I fell once...Ferrit twice...Sonya twice...once trying to get back to her stone. But Rain was hit hardest of all...he had a visit from the Soul Mother. His 9th such visit. Next one will be his last. Now...he will not go on the dangerous trips lest he dies and is taken from Sonya and the children forever. That being said...I asked that the keys to the money chest be given to me so the guild can still run. It left a bad taste in my mouth to say that. I can't look at Rain...it was a cold thing to say. I...don't wish the guild to fall if Rain does.
I feel like such a *Elven insult*...
-
Uncle Tyler succumbed to illness...
And it was a strange sickness too. He always ate right...kept his strength up. To return home...to see him lying there...makes no sense. It's just like the time Mother fell ill mysteriously. I feel these aren't coincidences. But there is no evidence of foul play. We have no enemies I know of. This is very strange.
Mother is rather irritated too. But she won't tell me why. I know Jenna brought Krindo here...but they are gone now. She will tell me when she is ready. For now...I must get back to Ferrit.
But these incidents with my family are still puzzling...
-
Met a cleric the other day...
An Aerdinite named Lex'or Gravedigger. Nice enough sort. Sold him some copper armor becuase he was robbed of his things coming to Hlint. He is looking for his sister Sonya...and when we mentioned our Sonya...the only Sonya we know...he sort of dismissed it as a coincidence.
I really don't believe in coincidences...this is too much of one. We should introduce Sonya to him. See if she really is his sister. But her name was Sonya Darkangel...not Gravedigger. I could be wrong.
Ferrit is starting to wear looser clothing now. We are looking at a fall birth. Pretty soon she will have to go easy on the trips when she gets further along. We almost lost Cole the first time when we were working for the MAF...and I hope we don't have a repeat of that this time. I wonder what Cole will think when he sees his sibling? Hope he isn't the jealous type.
We will soon see...
-
A lot to write about...
Lex'or Gravedigger IS Sonya's brother. That was confirmed when I brought Sonya to meet him. However...she told me a tale of evil that befell her family...and that this man may be an imposter looking for her. She mentioned some kind of note...'They are mine and you will be to.'...or something to that effect. Meaning that her family are either dead or imprisoned...I cannot be certain.
Anyway...Lex'or is who he claims to be and now Sonya has more family in her life besides Rain and the kids. She is happy and so am I.
There is one thing that does concern Rain and myself...
Lex'or and Hanna have fallen for each other. I saw it in their eyes when the look at each other and see it when they are together. This happened very quickly. Now...this will be strange coming from an Ilsarian...but it seems a little too quick. Rain feels the same way...but I...well...I am inclined to give them the benefit of the doubt while Rain...well...Rain is a little more protective of Hanna. We just don't want anything to hurt her. We shall see...
Love is a strange thing sometimes...
-
*Kyle walks into the practice room in the Darsus house in Prantz...bearing a wrapped package. He finds Tristan practicing his strikes with the same padded katana he has used since starting his training. Kyle coughs politley and Tristan runs over to him.*[/b]
"Yes...Uncle Kyle?" Tristan looks at his mentor questioningly. 'What have I done now?' Seemed to be etched on his face.
"Sit Tristan sit." Kyle indicates the mat on the floor. Tristan doesn't budge. "It's ok...you haven't done anything wrong this time." Kyle smiles and indicates a spot next to him. Warily...Tristan sits besides Kyle eyeing the mysterious package. "You've been training quite hard lately and I feel the time is right." With the now confused Tristan watching...he unwraps the package revealing a crafted copper dagger. The boy's face lights up as he sees the weapon. He takes the dagger and slowly get the feel of it. It is heavier than the practice katana. A look from Kyle brings Tristan to seriousness.
"Now..it is time to train with a real weapon so you can put that stick away. There are a few things you MUST abide by. One...you DO NOT use this on anything but the dummy or what I tell you to. Two...under no circumstances are you to take this weapon out in town. The guards will at the very least take it from you and worst...arrest anyone with you for having it out. We will begin training tomorrow with it. Do you understand Tristan?"
"Yes...Uncle Kyle. I understand. Thank you." Kyle watches as Tristan goes to the dummy and resumes practicing but this time with the dagger...pieces of cloth ripping at each hit.
Kyle just sits watching and wondering if he is doing the right thing...
-
*Kyle watches Ferrit sleeping. He goes over...places his hand lightly on her abdomen and kisses her lightly on her forehead. She stirs...but does not awaken.*[/b]
Almost time...
In about 6 or 8 more weeks Cole will have a sibling. He has asked countless times why he can't play with Ferrit like he used to and why his mother is tired all the time. I told him that his mother has to rest now so that the baby can be born. He just nods and continues to play with his toys.
Rest indeed...
She pushes herself too much I fear. We almost lost Cole once...and I don't want anything to happen that could make us lose this baby. I think she realizes this so...she has taken it on herself to stay home and rest. Good thing. I can surprise her with the first loaf of bread I baked. A little payback for all the cooking and baking she has done for me over the years. I hope this will make her happy. The blues have started early.
I'll give her the bread tomorrow. She should like it...
-
Well...seems our kids are in a hurry to be born...
I'm on Rilara getting ready to 'talk' to the bugbears about 'giving' me some garnet...when a messenger bird drops a message from Ferrit at home.
'Come home my love. It is time.'[/b]
That was all the note said. I sent a note to Jenna to watch Cole a little longer...and tried to get home as fast as I could. Freelancers were making repairs to the inn...so I had to get on the next boat back to Mistone. As soon as the boat got to Port Hampshire...I ran as fast as I could to get to Krandor. But when I got home...there was Ferrit...alone with our new baby daughter. Aylana Pandorn she will be called.
I apologized up and down...but Ferrit just smiled and told me not to worry. That she handled it fine by herself and there was no way I could have known that the baby was going to be born now. I sat next to them...touching my daughter's tiny hand...kissing Ferrit on her forehead...smiling from ear to ear. I sat there until they both fell asleep. I left the room to let them sleep and went to get Cole.
Boy...will he be surprised to have a little sister...
-
So...Milara is content with just the mountains?....
I read the brief summary of the contract with Milara. All the Iriand Mountains and their borders...not including the Bloody Gate...will be his. No adventurers will be permitted in there without his permisson. No armies or such shall amass with 500 miles of the Iriand Mountains. Bloody Gate...even though will not be under his control...will not have a standing army. All will be free to move about. All Milara's troops will be removed and Milara will not interfere with day to day living. This will be in effect for 7 years unless someone is fool enough to test him.
I already hear tales of unrest in the area since the removal of Milara's troops. Tales of people vying for control of the lands Milara once controlled. Some of the tales are ugly to say the least. I must be careful on Rilara now.
I hope this deal will not come to haunt us...
-
*Kyle is sitting in the common room watching the fire. Deep in thought...he begins to write in his journal*[/b]
I am a very lucky man...
And good fortune isn't easy to come by. When the dragon took me away and set me in Hlint...I was depressed. I was ripped from my home...set among strangers...and told I was to be a hero. For a long while...I wandered aimlessly....doing the occasional odd job....fumbling about trying to figure how I was to be this hero. I hadn't a clue as how to do this. Hero...bah...it seemed an impossible ideal.
How does this make me lucky?...
It was the day I met Ferrit that I consider myself lucky. I saw a spirit in her that was 'never say die'. She is a survivor. And maybe that is what I needed in my life. She also brought out feelings in me that I never though was possible. I thought I knew love back home with my mentor Cardiana...but looking back...it was more of a crush than true love. Maybe the dragon taking me was a blessing. Maybe I wasn't meant to settle for a crush.
As I began to travel with Ferrit more and more...the friendship I felt for her grew into affection and then to love. And when I saw her fall the first time...to a griffon outside Fort Hope...it brought out that love. I couldn't bear to see her fall and I was overjoyed to have been able so save her from death. It was a short time later that I told her of my love for her. We were on the little island on Lake Palden when I finally revealed how I felt for her. She returned those feelings and we were constantly by each other's side.
And we stayed together. Through good times and bad...even when she thought she wasn't going to be able to put her past behind her. I guess that is the mark of true love. To stand by the one you love no matter what has happened. We were married a few months later...and now have a son and daughter.
Maybe this is what the dragon meant by 'hero'. Oh...I went on a few campaigns...fought on behalf of friends and others. But maybe being a hero means to be there for the ones you love.
*Kyle looks over at Ferrit who is tickling Aylana with Cole playing at her feet. He smiles and continues.*[/b]
I am a lucky man indeed....
-
The posturing has started...
The 'Allied Duchies of Morholt' will not recognize the agreement Plen made with Milara and has doubled their guard patrols in Karthy. They thump their chests...claim sovreignty after centuries of silence from them. And call Plen and the others 'dubious'. Civil War will breakout on Alindor...and it will cause the agreement to be broken. Some fool will go into the mountain and that will be that.
Well...when Milara comes down from the mountain and takes Karthy by force...the 'Allied Duchies' will come...hat in hand...asking for help from us 'dubious outsiders' as they call us now.
We'll help them of course...and just maybe the citizens of the duchies will see them for what they are...
-
I'm becoming a cook...
I baked some corn bread for Ferrit. See my family has this little custom...we give gifts towards the end of the year to those we love...to celebrate the past year...and to prepare for the year to come. We haven't observed that custom for a long time...and I felt it was time to start it up with me and Ferrit. Some things just shouldn't be forgotten.
Cole is almost 4 now...getting heavy for my carrier pack. I gave him this toy sword and am careful he doesn't start to hit his sister with it. It is nothing but cloth filled with cotton patterned to look like a sword...and he pretends to be me when he is playing. Maybe he is a chip off the old block...maybe not. He will choose his calling when he is old enough to do so. No interference from Ferrit or myself. But...part of me wishes him to take up the katana...
Aylana...my little girl. She is about 3 months old now and is beautiful. Just like her mother. Looks like Ferrit too. Same eyes...but her hair appears to a reddish brown type color. Where did that come from? I don't have red hair...niether does Ferrit.
*Kyle puts the quill down a moment and thinks.*[/b]
Wait...my late uncle Tyler's hair was kind of red. Maybe there is red hair in my family. We don't know anything about Ferrit's family. Maybe...maybe I can find out. Maybe Ferrit has a relative somewhere.
I wonder what Ferrit would think about that....
-
I made a big purchase today...
I went to Orc's Watch on Dregar and bought a horse. A brown colt which I named Eldarin after an old family friend. He will make it easier to get around from place to place. I rode home and there was no one there. So I rode to Hlint to get the kids from Jenna...Cole went absolutely nuts with happiness at seeing Eldarin. We rode around all day...Cole behind me...Aylana strapped to my back. We had quite a time.
But I really wanted to have Ferrit ride behind me. But...she wasn't home. Probably getting things for the guild. I'm starting to miss the times Ferrit and I would just go off together just us two. We would make plans for a romantic night...then someone would send a bird to her for some leathers or silver enchantment or some other thing. Then we would gather the materials and that would be that.
I know she loves me and she knows I love her dearly. Maybe that will have to be enough...
-
I am so glad Ferrit is back...
I found her in the Craft Hall in Port Hampshire sewing some adamantium in clothing for herself. She made an outfit that brings out her elegance and beauty. Ok...ok...I'm biased. To me she is beautiful in just about anything. It felt so good to hold her again. My mood immediately improved. It had been a little subdued while she was away. She saw Eldarin and is thinking about getting a horse of her own. I think a romantic ride around is in order if she does.
We then went on a trek around Dregar with Storold, Mylindra, Tyrian, and this fellow named Avar. All the while...my eyes were on Ferrit. I didn't realize how much I missed her. After we finished at Lake Corax...Ferrit and I made camp. Just like we used to do. We held each other...gazed into the fire and drifted off to sleep. I am so happy when I'm with her. Even more so.
I hope we can have more times like this again...
-
18 years...
Has it really been that long? It was just yesterday I was standing in front of that waterfall near Blackford pledging my love to Ferrit and now we have a house...2 kids...and a horse. Do I have any regrets? Not a one. I look at Ferrit and she is just as beautiful as she was that day...and even though I show a few wrinkles, she says I'm still as young as ever. She fibs with the best of them...Ilsare bless her.
Sonya asked me to show Sarah how to use a blade. Seems she saw Tristan with his weapon and wants to see if she can handle one. We shall see. Sarah doesn't seem to be the fighting type but everyone should know how to wield a blade properly. Even the mages can use a dagger.
Well...I better get back to Ferrit. We will go get the kids from Jenna and give her a break. We'll even take Krindo from her for a while so she can get out and about.
She deserves it...
-
It is a mixed blessing...
Ranewin has been invited to join the guild. While we could use another healer...she is also a very capable warrior. With her and Dora...we will be alright. We could come out of trips to Dregar in good shape.
Why is this a mixed blessing?...
Because my blade seems so weak compared to theirs. Especially if there are others who skill with a blade is better than mine. By the time I get to a position to help in the fray...the foe has already been killed.
It makes me feel small in front of Ferrit. Like I can't protect her anymore.
I feel so useless...
-
Time to catch up...
We went to Hurm to talk to the Black Dragon. I had mixed feelings about it since it was the one who almost destroyed Hurm and caused Ferrit and me to catch its plague. And we didn't get what we needed. A cauldron that could combine artifacts into a really powerful one. We wanted to get it before Selian could...but the dragon wouldn't part with it. Well...at least Selian won't get it. We gave many expensive and rare items...most notably Ozy's spear. The one that slew Blood. A very hard sacrifice he made. This satisied the dragon and now as long as the merchants of Hurm gove 10% of an increasing number...the dragon will leave Hurm alone. Or more exactly...protect its shipping lanes. Which would help Hurm prosper...I hope.
We may have saved the lives of the people of Hurm. Not that Serissa Tir'ein would think so. She evacuated people on a ship that was attacked by another black dragon...and blames us for it. Quantum believed the ship to be a pirate vessel...which is why the dragon attacked. Serissa is responsible for that...not us. She judges us by her own standards...and pity those who don't agree with her.
Well...she better get set for a lot of disagreements...
-
I am getting stronger by the day...
My attacks seem to have become more lethal...and quicker. Well...maybe not quicker...but I do get an extra shot in sometimes when in combat. I can see it when my foe is stunned for a moment. Dalan has been watching me for a while now...doesn't say anything...just watches. He seems amazed when I do a Whirlwind...and I think he is trying it out with his axe. He can become a force to be reckoned with should he master his axe. I will show him what I can and wish him luck.
Rain has run a foul of the law in Hlint. Seems he bought a slave with the intention of freeing it from a Drow slaver. Turns out that this slave could have been an undead...which would have been loosed upon Hlint. They destroyed it...but since Rain bought the slave...even with the best of intent...Garent says he still must stand trial for it.
If Rain needs to go to prison...he has asked that I resume as leader of the guild. But...I don't think it will come to that. I never really wanted to lead...I just led to get the guild on its feet. I will wait and see.
Daniel has been accepted as a Squire of the Order of the Wyrm...Barion becoming a Knight. It was what Daniel has aspired to be all his life. I am happy for him and for Barion too. Daniel can finally shake that 'coward' label that Barion's bride to be pinned on him and can truly now be the Knight he can be. Good luck Daniel.
Ferrit...my love...has become more skilled in the bow than I have with my blade. I am proud of her. This gives me incentive to push myself even harder to become as skilled with my katana. I...want to be able to hold my own with her in battle. I do not want to become so...useless to her.
Time to hit the practice area again....
-
Two more have gone to their final rest...
Melanna D'Jaern...hope I got the last name right. I never got along with her...I thought her too full of herself and arrogant. But since she was a friend of Hanna's and Daniel's...I respected her. But that aside...I never wish anyone to have the last part of their soul ripped from them. Well...maybe a certain dwarf... Daniel seemed to be getting attached to her...and it was he who brought her body to Rofirein's temple in Velensk. He was distraught. I didn't go to the temple...but I will express my condolences to Daniel next I see him.
Neppakayo...the father of triplets. He fell in Storan's Crypt. Drogo said that he fell to mummies in Storan's and was carrying his body on his back as a cheetah...and buried him in Krandor just outside my house. Nepp was a good sort...but his failed relationship with Ash...hardened his heart. I hope his heart softens in the afterlife...so that he may be at peace. Rest well Nepp.
And a dear friend surprised the Hells out of me...
Honora works for the Prantz government. For that dwarf. She has her reasons...and I agree with them. But...I can't help but wonder if Broegar truly trusts her and doesn't have her watched. Ferrit and I are helping to investigate an assassination attempt on the head of thr Rofirein church in Prantz. We are in the company of people who just by being seen with them could get us hung. We have to be really careful.
Sonya had yet another baby....
Thank the gods it's only one this time. Elyam is his name. He was born at a toga party at the Arms. One that I couldn't be at. Seems that Rain and Sonya are taking this family guild thing literally...heh. 6 kids. Poor Sonya needs a break.
Ferrit missed me at the party. And I feel terrible. I swear...next party at the Arms...I'm there. For now...I'll shower Ferrit with love and roses and dinner. Just to make it up to her. She deserves her husband there with her.
I must go. Sarah and Cole's lesson draws near. And Tristan too. He needs to be taken down a peg. He is starting to bully his sister and Cole...and I need to stop it. Maybe a trip to path just before the Broken Forest...see how he likes a huge ogre bullying him...
-
The investigation will bring me home...
Ferrit, Jennara, Lex'or and I went to North Point to ask the Aerdinite healer about the poison used to incapacitate Barvanth...the head of the Rofirien church. He is in a coma and will most likely die if we can't find a counteragent to the poison.
It seems that the poison is made from a plant and snake indiginous to...of all places...Vanavar. Home. I regret...I've only been back to Vanavar once or twice since Ozlo called me...and now I must do so again. It will be the first time Ferrit goes there and possibly meet my...no...our family. I wish we could bring Cole and Aylana with us...but we will not be there for a visit.
We have to find the snake and the plant...both of which I tried to remember from the warnings my father told me as a boy...but it was so long ago...another lifetime it seems. The only thing I do remember was the size of the snake...and the sweet smell of a plant that made me passout as if I spent too much time in the tavern. I wouldn't want to feel that again.
Rhynn has found a way to sneak in to Broegar's keep. She was able to show us...with illusory magic...the inner layout of the keep. It may be possible to get close enough to him to deliver the cure once we get it. We will have to be really careful or....
First we go to Vanavar. This homecoming will not be sweet...
-
The feeling in the air is different...
Hard times have come. Routes that we walked a thousand times before have become more perilous now a days. Hlint is almost a ghost town with the closing of the Craft Hall...Merchant building and Smithy. I have relocated to Port Hempstead to be near a craft hall.
The Haven Mine is now overrun with gnolls. I took a peek and saw patrol after patrol of them. I left. I will need to bring back up to mine iron again.
The Red Light caves I hear have a tougher brand of goblin. And more organized and better equippped. Even copper will be hard to get. I have to keep Cole from going in there.
Things we took for granted are now becoming more difficult. Hard times indeed...
-
Well...we didn't sail to Vanavar right away...
We had only one shot at getting to Wyleth in North Point. Broegar knew he was there because his diviner was using Raven to as a scry tool. As long as she didn't cast any magics...we had a chance. And it was a success. We got Wyleth out of North Point just as Broegar's men were getting into town. Suffice it to say...we are committed now. I just hope Broegar's men didn't get a good look at us.
Now we sail to Vanavar for the cure to the poison that afflicts Barvanth. We can only hope we weren't followed...and that Vanavar is far enough away that Broegar can't scry for him. Hope Wyleth will shed some light about all this.
I...however...look forward to seeing my family. It has been so long...
-
I have to be choosy on who I trust from now on....
There are some whom I will not trust from this moment forward. I will not name them. I will just keep them at arms length from now on. I...though...must shoulder some of the responsibility for this mess. I should have stepped up and prevented that mirror from being put in that pool. All of us who didn't think it was a good idea should have. And now we owe Mist a favor. Must be something that can be done to nullify this deal. And something that would set things right again.
I just hate the taste of failure...
-
We finally made it to Vanavar...
And they didn't kill Wyleth. Jennara will bring him before a Justicar when this is done. If Wyleth doesn't get away. The Captain of the guard is letting Pyrran and Galen hold him in the town's drunk tank for now.
And we finally saw Father and Mother. The have taken a liking to Ferrit...even with Mother's usual coarseness. Ferrit was nervous. Something I have never seen her become before. She has stared down ogres...giants...and a few demons...but was real nervous to meet my folks. Guess the hardest things are the least worrisome. We will come back with the kids once we finish with our task.
Our task...
Father told us that the snake we are looking for has almost been hunted to extinction...which would have been a catastrophy...except that old hermit in the hills has been giving them sanctuary. We may be able to coax a live snake out of him. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
The plant however will be harder to get. Deep in the Broken Mountains. I haven't been there since they pulled me out when I got poisoned. We will have to find a way not to become overwhelmed by the smell or we may not come out this time.
And what of that caravan of 'spice merchants'? I saw the tents...but none of the merchants.
We may not be the only ones interested in the components...
-
Time for catch up...
We have gotten ahold of a sample of venom from the yellow snake from that old hermit. Wasn't too happy about us killing these COLOSSAL scorpions he lets wander free in front of his sanctuary...and forced Jil to get the venom.
And now she is poisoned. And according to that old coot...she has about a month...unless we get her an antidote. Hope we got enough for two doses of antidote.
We return to North Hampton to sail to North Point. I would love to tarry a bit with my folks...but Jil can't afford it.
None of us can really...
-
*Kyle drops the last vial of queen spider poison into a hole in the vault at the guild hall. He then hammers an iron plate into place over the hole...then an oak plank over that. He checks it for security then stands up...leaves and closes the vault where he checks another repair on the outside of the vault. He shakes his head and begins to write*[/b]
We were robbed...
And 'Thomas' is a part of it. So was Kinai Kinsei...but her part was of unwilling accomplice. A hooded man put them up to robbing the guild...more a test of either our security or of their willingness to do it...since there were way more valuable things that 'Thomas' could have made off with. An elaborate test...since they used rats as a diversion. Nothing was taken that can't be readily replaced...but it was a wake-up call for us. We have become too trusting lately and we could have been burned worse. We wouldn't have even known if not for Kinai coming clean and telling us all she knew. We can and did forgive her part in it.
Hawk actually fought the man...and was soundly beaten. Wields twin kamas that glow red. Either a monk or a Master of the kama. He will be a tough foe...should we find out who or what he is.
Serissa Windword and Barion are investigating for us...but it will be done quietly...so as not to alert the hooded man that we are on to him. We have to catch him before he gets something valuable.
As for 'Thomas'...he is a drow from what I learned. From what Kinai told us...he jumped at the chance to rob us. And if he ever show himself near the guild hall again...I just hope someone is around to stay my hand.
I have to board up some more holes. But...I think they could get back in if they wanted to. We need to be on our toes...
*Kyle picks up his hammer and iron plates...oak planks and spikes and goes into the showroom to board up more of the holes left by the rats.*[/b]
-
Seems that everytime I open this book...I write about something bad happening...
Not this time. Sonya presented the diaries she made out of the materials Dalan Ferrit and I provided. And they have begun writing. Hope it helps them get their thoughts together just as my diary gets mine out.
We were presented with our guild start up fee by Rain. This means that the guild is well on its way. It makes me glad to be part of something successful...not like the last guild Ferrit and I tried to become part of. That was a unfortuate choice we made...being the nefarious things they did under our notice.
Ferrit...
My wife...lifelong companion...my very heart. 20 years we are married and my love for her is as strong as it was when I first declared it on Palden Lake. Anytime I feel down...all I have to do is look at her and I am lifted up. It doesn't matter what she is doing. She could be working over the alchemy table...the gem grinder or tanning vats. She is a part of me.
Well...Stone needs some mahogany cut into planks. I need to see Quillwem for a key to the Freelancer's to get the wood. I find the woodworking curiously calming. I've been on edge a lot recently about this hooded man and his interest in stealing from our guild...that I feel I'm shutting everyone out. Even Cole and Alyana.
Which reminds me...I've been taking terrible advantage of Jenna with dropping the kids off all of the time. One of these times...I'll take little Krindo off her hands and let her do what she wants to do.
Ferrit can be my conscience sometimes....Ilsare bless her...
-
A betrayal by one I had once considered friendly...
Galen Tweed. Honora's friend and one who I thought was mine as well. We had agreed to let the Rofirein church have Wyleth to stand trial in Fort Vehl for his crimes after Jennara made her report to Broegar on the cure...but instead...Galen slips out and brings one of Broegar's men to take custody of Wyleth.
My life flashed before me. I had visions of rotting in Broegar's dungeon...awaiting execution. Never to again see my friends...my children...my Ferrit. I had resigned myself to that. And I prayed to the gods...that it would be swift.
Instead...Broegar thanked us for bringing Wyleth to him...after admonishing the church for 'overstepping it's bounds' and charging Wyleth with various crimes and its accompanying death sentence. And that was it. Free to go. With a 'stipend'. Bah. A week of bathing couldn't wash the stink away.
It wasn't supposed to be. Did Wyleth deserve to die? Most definitely. But even the most lowly gets the benefit of a trial...not summary judgement and execution. And Galen almost got us exactly that.
His Holiness Barvanth got his cure and is recovering. We will have to wait until he is well enough to hear what he had to say before he got attacked. Something tells me it will be world shaking.
Galen Tweed of the Spellguard Tweeds...to me...his word means nothing. I won't even hear them...
-
Well...we broke ground in Stone...
Actually it was the boulders blocking the entrance to Beryl's temple there. Seeing the level of devastation...Ferrit was shocked. To me...it brought back the memory of that day we fought to free it. It was like it happened yesterday.
Well...when this town is rebuilt...they will need some sort of militia. I will have to research this...see if it is outside the agreement's reach...then maybe I can teach a few things to the people that will live here.
It will be good to see a prosperous Stone rise again from this rubble...
-
Sarah needs training...
Seems there is this bully a her school and Sonya is worried about her getting hurt or worse by these boys. She asked me to train her on blades along with Cole. I agreed...but I fear I may be opening a can of worms.
I will try to teach her the Whirlwind. It may get her enough time to fend off an attack without getting deadly. Stupidity is no reason to get seriously hurt. I will instill in Sarah that her training is to be used only if they try to harm her.
As for a weapon...a short sword would be suited for her. However...I'm a little hesitant since I'm not sure if Rain would approve of Sarah handling a weapon yet. Sonya asked me not to tell him. I hope she will.
*A sound distracts Kyle. He looks over to see Cole trying to sneak past him. He just smiles and continues*[/b]
Ferrit is showing Cole how to be stealthy. Seems he has a knack for blending in already thanks to Dalan and Rain training him. But the other day...he came home a little agitated. He won't say a word to me. But he stayed in plain sight for a while.
Aylana is a singer. She hums the lullabys we used to sing to her as a baby...and somehow...they lift my spirit a little. Heh...maybe it's because she is my daughter and that is reason enough to have high spirits. Still...she does have a nice voice.
I have a proposal to the guild. I must put it in writing first...just to see if it has any merit. Back to work...
-
*Kyle coughs as he picks up the quill to write. He is pale as he pulls a cloak over him.*[/b]
I'm so weak. I can barely get my smelting done for the guild because of this. A quick trip to Vanavar to see Father. We talked...had dinner with friends...bragged about Cole and Aylana. Then I started to feel ill on the boat back to Audira. This was a week ago.
Ferrit thinks I may have a stomach virus...but I'm usually over it in a few days. Bah...maybe she's right. I'll bounce back soon.
*A chill shakes Kyle as he closes the journal and goes to bed.*[/b]
-
I have grown weaker...
I fell on a trip with Ben Poetr...Tariana...and Drexia Faison. A bunch of ogre mages let loose and I fell. And saw the Soul Mother for the 6th time. I...am frightened. I don't want to make her a widow.
I'll just putter around the guild hall for a while. I need the time off...
*A fit of coughing and Kyle goes off to bed*[/b]
-
So...as the saying goes...
'Once more into the breach.' Honora, Galen, Daniel, myself, Ferrit, Clarissa, Jil will go into the rift we created in Erylin. We will have Storold Dosescha and AnnaLee with us too. Seems we may have a way to repair the rift but in may mean going back in there.
In the place where I almost lost my mind. I haven't told anyone...but I still hear them. The voices. Mocking me...telling me Ferrit doesn't love me...would see me dead...rejects me even in death. It takes a good amount of whiskey to drown them out. Even then...
First we must repair one of the portal mirrors. The one in Injam is out. The Baroness isn't exactly a friend of ours. The feeling is the Baroness of Green will be more receptive. We are going there now.
The sooner we repair that blasted rift the sooner the voices will leave...
-
Ferrit and I must part to help close the portal and break the Curse of Erylin...that's what I'm calling it....
My task is to glean whatever information from the elves in the Wolfswood about Adwenth...once a trusted advisor to the Barons. Maybe I can find out what can be done to locate the Chalice that cursed them and to break it once we have it. And the tale of the 'ghostly elven woman' who is said to haunt the forest near the tower.
And to see if anyone else has taken an interest in it. The traitor perhaps?
Ferrit on the other hand...has a more difficult one. To acertain what items Athalia Imjam has and whether they can be used to repair the rift. She runs the risk of capture or worse. I pray that she comes back to me.
We need all prayers now...
-
No news is good news...
I spoke to the High Druid of the Wolfswood but he had no knowledge of Adwenth or the spirit of the wood. But he did have one huge chip on his shoulder and a definite bias against humans. My speaking Elven to him didn't impress him.
So...I go back with no new information. At least I didn't foul things up by going.
I saw Ferrit before she left for Imjam. She was dressed as a maid and said her plan was to get a job in the castle. She said she may not be back for a while. That was a week ago...and I've not heard from her. I miss her and hope she is alright.
I do hope she does come back soon. My 'visiting friends' excuse to Cole and Aylana is wearing thin now. Cole looks at me like he suspects I'm lying...and Aylana keeps asking where Ferrit is. I don't think it will fly much longer.
Ferri my love...please come home soon...
-
The rift will be put off for a while...
Honora...Anna and Galen will go to Imjam. To lay our cards on the table with Athalia Imjam. Maybe if Baroness Imjam sees that we are remorseful about having caused the rift...we may be able to fix it with her help. We were going to try and fix the rift...but Anna said that without one of the gems as an anchor...we may get lost forever in where ever the rift goes. So...they will go to Imjam first.
Ferrit returned to Imjam. To see what else she can learn before Honora and Anna see Lady Imjam. She got away long enough to tell us what she did learn and...well..let's just say she missed me too. When I learned they will go to Imjam first...I rode Eldarin as fast as I could to try to catch Ferrit and tell her she should leave the castle...but I was too late...the boat for Alindor had left. On second thought...a little more information can't hurt.
My head aches...time to lie down...
*Kyle opens a bottle of Will-o-Whiskey and drinks a little before going to bed.*
-
Time to catch up...
First...Athalia Imjam isn't the enemy. She is just a mother who loves her son deeply. As any mother would. And that is Challum Imjam. And she had one request of us. To bring her son home for burial if he were dead. Or he himself if he were alive. Then she would tell us where the portal is in the rift so we may fix our mess.
However...he was said to be within Milara's territory and Ferrit...Jil...and Honora went in the Iriand Mountains to find him. If they were caught...Milara would have an excuse...like he needs one...to restart the war. I kept vigil at Bloody Gate with the dwarves there for company.
They went in stealthy...no magical enhancements...and actually succeeded in finding Challum...but freeing his spirit. With a price...they tell me Mist showed up...and while what they did doesn't cancel our debt to her...she allowed 3 items that Challum had in a chest to be taken by us. Ferrit...Ilsare love her...gave up her prized hood...the one the Keeper gave her...to gain a 4th item. That was a big sacrifice on her part.
Now we have 4 of the items we think will cleanse the challice and break the curse. But now...Ferrit tells me Milara was waiting as they left the cave and knows they were there. This could be the thing that brings Milara down from the mountain earlier than expected. We will have to deal with it when it comes.
For now...we have a rift to repair and a curse to break...
-
Laestycenyeana el Ceoa...
Simplicity in Life...
That was what it was about. We succeeded in not only repairing the rift...but returning King Briant to the throne of Erylin after 250 years. The voices have ceased. And I find myself not wanting to look at a whiskey bottle for a while.
Simplicity in Life...
It was the plain and the ordinary that were the key. The least gaudy of the items were needed to fix the rift and bring King Briant home. As was speculated by Storold...just removing the mirror from the rift sealed it and brought us to the very spot it happened in the first place. We concentrated on Briant...and I felt compelled to go back into the rift. I was carrying the sword. Briant's sword. It was puling me..drawing me forward to where Briant was. By placing the items in the right order...we freed Briant and broke the curse as well. There will be celebrations in Erylin for a good long while.
And to top it...we find out that Honora is a decendant of a Knight of Erylin. She is a great-great-great-great-great grandaughter of Aleander Kartin...King's Knight Councillor. She has genuine status now. Deservedly so. And to think...she needed mine and Ferrit's help all those years ago when we first met. A half-orc wanderer who barely spoke common. She is and always will be Honora to us.
The world just got a little better now...Simplicity in Life.....
-
Another child???...
Ferrit has become ravenously hungry lately. She can't seem to get enough food. Last time she was like this...Aylana was born. So...Ferrit thinks she may be pregnant again.
How did this happen? I mean I KNOW how it happens...but I thought the herbs she took were preventing her from getting pregnant. I just don't understand...
If she is...we'll just welcome another child. But...Cole is 15...Aylana is 11...to have an infant now...
Something just doesn't make sense...
-
*Kyle look out at the water outside his home in Krandor. The familar sight of the moon reflecting off of it makes him smile*
A perfect night for a reception...
In all the excitement of restoring the Kingdom of Erylin and the upcoming reception...I forgot to mention one little fact...
The sun has returned. The Cloud has disappeared. 18 years after the Blood well was destroyed and spawned it. It has been shining for a few weeks now.
It surprised me that morning. I saw light under the front door. Dim at first but growing in brightness. Then I heard it. A rooster crowing. That hasn't happened in 18 years. I opened the door...half expecting to see a magical battle...but the sun hit me square in the eyes...blinding me for a moment. When I realized what it was...I started to weep. Cole came out behind me with his sister next to him.
I remember Cole looking up at the first sunrise and asking..."Dad...what is that? It is so warm. Will it hurt?" He and Aylana were squinting at it...not knowing if it was good or bad. I just smiled and picked Aylana up.
"That Cole...is the sun. Something I thought I'd never see again. Or you would ever see. It means the end of something that will be told for years to come. Now...let's take Eldarin for a ride. Enjoy it as I once did a long time ago."
That was a few weeks ago. Now...to see other children marvel at it. To see my own children playing in it...I am happy.
Maybe...just maybe...it is the dawning of better times ahead....
-
The reception was magnificent...
All the Erylin nobility was there. The mood about the Fort of Kings was festive. Ferrit was nervous. This is her first audience with a King. Mine too...but I wasn't going to show it.
Honora made it a point to remind us that the night wasn't just hers. It was ours. We all made the day possible. And King Briant was not lost on that fact.
Once he learned I was a katana master...and a little build up on how great a warrior I am by Ferrit...he introduced me to Baron Rilgon. Baron Rilgon is the trainer and commander of Erylin's knights. I'm not quite sure...but I think King Briant made it a point to mention that.
Anyway...the knights have a great respect for Baron Rilgon...and I think I'd do well to spend some time training with him. Even though he is aging...he is still quite a formidable man. I will learn a lot from him I think. I've always believed there is still more to learn...more ways to master the weapon. And yourself. I'll have to run this by Ferrit. It may mean moving to Erylin for a while.
Honora was made a Knight and Councillor to the King. Complete with a cloak of state. She will be the eyes and ears for King Briant. A very important job. Milara is still a threat...and King Briant will need all the information he can get.
But...the night was for celebration. And celebrate we did. I had to keep an eye on Cricket. He kept trying to cut in as I was dancing with Ferrit. He looks like nothing mischief waiting to happen. Honora will have her hands full. Athalia Imjam must have laughed her head off with relief.
After the party...I'll need to write Baron Rilgon personally...after talking to Ferrit of course.
Milara is still waiting in the wings...
-
Ferrit wants to be more of a warrior...
She asked me to train her in the more martial aspects of combat...meaning...up close and personal. Seems she wants to be literally at my side in fights. And she has this armor that is just as sturdy as chain...but light enough to let her move quickly.
It will be hard to see her getting knocked around...like it was hard when we sparred in Vehl. I parried mostly at first...and she did well...she even knocked me out a few times. She needs more training...I did knock her down a few times as well once I let loose.
But...I think she will do well as a warrior. And the extra skills will only benefit her. She still has a devastating attack from the rear and flank.
I think she actually enjoyed it...
-
*Kyle sighs as he looks at the empty bed. Ferrit had left that morning on a trip*
She hasn't been gone for more than a day and I miss her already. All she would tell me is that she may be gone for a very long while and that she was chosen for it. My heart will ache till she returns to me.
I know she would have told me if she could...but that leaves me wondering what other people think of me. I've been on adventures with some of these people. Haven't I proven my trustworthiness? Or do they think I'm just a dumb warrior who is only wanted when a meat shield is needed?
At least I have the guild family. Jako...Rain...Omer...and Sala. She is just about a member without actually being one.
Still...Ferrit is first in my heart. And will always be. Ilsare...if you can...protect her with your love and bring her home to me soon.
*Kyle retires for the night...but his sleep is restless.*
-
This is torture...
More than one should be made to bear. Ferrit has been gone for over a month now. Maybe two. And I still hear nothing. My heart is troubled every moment she is gone. I fear she may not be coming back.
Storold knows. But he isn't saying. They've been sworn to secrecy. For my protection he says. He won't even tell me who she is with. All he will say is...she will be safe with them. Easy for him to say...Mylindra is here. Ferrit is...where she is. Trust doesn't seem to come easy.
What could be so dangerous that my knowing puts me in peril? I've gone on dangerous trips before...put my self in harm's way for others. Why is this different?
There must be someone who CAN tell me where they are and what they are doing.
I must know...
-
It's been 7 months since I last saw my Ferrit...
And I haven't found a single person who can tell me anything. It is like she just disappeared from the face of Layonara. And I have this nagging feeling something is wrong.
I feel it in my bones...maybe I should have talked her out of it. I have never stopped her from going anywhere before...but this time seemed different. But I kept silent and let her go. And now...that feeling is there. And the frustration of not knowing.
Cole is a young man now. Almost 18. He has asked be if he can go live among the Wolfswood Rangers for a while. He feels drawn to the woods and can leran from them. I'm reluctant...but he is old enough to make his own choices. He will probably be gone if...no WHEN...Ferrit gets back. She will be sad to have missed him...but she will find him.
I had to send Aylana to Vanavar to be with my parents. I must concentrate on finding Ferrit and Aylana will be safe there. When Ferrit gets back...I will go get her. Aylana misses Ferrit so much.
As do I. When this group gets back...I will have many questions to ask...after a very long overdue reunion with my love...
-
I have another student...
Abi Firesteed. Barion gave her a katana like her mother's and had asked me to train her. He said for personal reasons he is unable to teach her himself...and as a friend...I accepted. I sent Abi a letter and hope to start lessons soon.
Ferrit is in my thoughts all the time now. Almost a year has passed since she left. Is she alright? Does she think of me and the kids? This not knowing...it is driving me insane. I hope this is all worth it...
-
Abigail is due to come tomorrow...
I placed a few combat dummies in the main room of the hall to start her training. Just to see how she handles her katana. Then if I'm satisfied that she has control...I'll have her spar with me.
This has gotten me thinking...the katana is a graceful weapon. To see one who can master it in battle...it is a beautiful sight. A lost art if you ask me.
Maybe I can open an academy for the Mastery of Weapons...to revive it. It is just a thought.
It will be a busy day tomorrow....
*Kyle closes the journal and sets the quill in its ink well. He walks over to a small table against the wall. It has a portrait of Ferrit he had made with a candle on each side and a single fresh red rose in front of it. He kneels in front of it...says a prayer to Ilsare for Ferrit's return...and kisses the picture. He rises and goes to bed...a tear forming in his eye...*
-
Praise to Ilsare...
Her love has brought Ferrit home. I was puttering around in the guild hall...cleaning up after Abi's training session...when the door opened and in walked Ferrit!!! My heart leapt for joy as Ferrit leapt into my arms. We held each other for almost an eternity it seemed before she spoke. She's back safe and sound. We spent the night celebrating.
Abi began training today. And I worked her hard. But she seemed to like it. Her moves were crisp and fluid. And she looks so much like her mother. I swear she is the spitting image of her. And she will be a fine swordsman...er...woman...er...person.
She will do well...
-
I have been neglecting things...
I've been on Vanavar a while....visiting my folks. It started like any other visit...the usual gossip over the dinner table...ale flowing like water at the tavern...
It was before I left for Mistone that something...odd occurred. I could have sworn someone was following me...watching me. I looked over my shoulder once and thought I saw someone looking at me from a distance. Just as I turned to look in that direction...what or whoever it was vanished.
Trelan...one of my best friends from youth and the officer on duty looked at me like I had a few too many ales...told me he'd look into it but he doesn't think it is anything. Maybe a thief sizing up a mark but thought better of it. "And as well he should...Kyle. He'd be a fool to try you." He laughs and walked me to the dock...he reminded me of a dart match I owe him to recoup a bet he lost last time we played. We chuckled and I boarded the boat for the Dregar mainland. I needed to get back to the guild and catch up with everything.
Still...the thought of someone stalking me...leaves me wondering...
-
My whole world is in danger...
Cole and Aylana were almost killed by asassins. If not for Ferrit and Storold...Jennara and others...they would have been.
All Ferrit told me is that they were monk assassins sent by a wizard turned lich. And that we are all in danger. Everyone. Friends and their families too. I must send word to my parents...they may be in danger too.
The children are safe for now...but I must watch the shadows from now on.
My whole world depends on it...
-
I've had little time to write but now is as good a time as any...
First...I'm helping Kat Hommel with a personal matter. Something to do with her father and music. The answer lies in some music and books her father left for her...but we simply haven't put together the pieces. We'll figure it out eventually...it is driving Kat near crazy.
And...a very rare event happened...the entire membership of the Angels guild was in the same place at the same time!!! We seemed to converge on the guild hall at the exact same moment. Ilsare must have been working hard to get us all together. It is a message to us...get together more often. And we shall.
Ilsare's work indeed...
-
Catch up time...
First...Kat Hommel has learned how to use her voice to be persuasive when dealing with others. It was there right in the music her father wrote. She made the music her own..since her father couldn't sing or play music. And it persuaded Cassandra to leave us be for now. But...you know Tides...
Second...vampires have targeted the Angels guild for some reason. I haven't had the opportunity to see one...but it has lead to someone accusing Hanna of being one. I admit...I don't have all the facts...but I know Hanna. And if anyone goes to harm her...
I really must stay on Mistone more...the guild family is in danger and I should be there to help protect them.
-
Tariana Poetr has gone to Rofirein...
She was taken in the Forest of Fog. What was told was she never reappeared at the bindstone and that means only one thing. The Soul Mother claimed her last bit of soul. I am filled with great sadness...for a few days earlier...just outside Prantz...the myconids had confused me with their gases and I struck Tariana down thinking she was one of them. I could have ended her there...but for the grace of Ilsare or Rofirein or whoever...she did return. And forgave me. That was her way. The way I will remember her.
The wake was somber...Rain's eulogy spoke of the joy of her life rather than mourn her death. Guess that is how we cope and carry on.
And carry on we will...
-
There is still no shortage of ignorance in the world...
The other night...Honora was in town with her kids...they are getting big...and we had a nice visit with them. One thing...why does Jesse 'moo' everytime he sees me? Can't get an answer from Honora or Ferrit. The just smile and giggle a lot. Women...
Well...anyway...I'm talking to Sil'via...when this guy dressed in a black hooded ouftit ups and spits at Honora!! I wanted to confront the lout...when Honora called over that it isn't worth it. That and Ferrit grabbing my arm stopped me. Sheesh...and this was done in front of the kids. I know Honora wanted to tear his head off too. Guess the kids didn't need to see that.
I've been moody lately...don't know why. Just feel...lost. Like a leaf blown in an autumn wind. Maybe that is why I go off for periods of time...to the sadness of those I love most. Ferrit even confessed to me that she was getting lonely. That just makes me even more moody.
I will figure out why I feel so lost. Ferrit shouldn't be lonely...
-
Treana is courting again...
This time it's Daniel Poetr who is going to marry her. Hopefully. She has made Courting Garb and it begins again. Still won't be Viza Na'Ruvan for Daniel if he asks...Ferrit got a little anxious when I told her about it. But...if I'm asked to be A'Tulsaiir Na'Biirisa...I might. Let's hope this time they actually make it to the ceremony.
Ferrit had cut herself...
No...she wasn't trying to hurt herself. But she did it to get behind this trapped wall to retrieve a book after fighting off a hoarde of skeletons. It was the solution to a puzzle when we found these urns in the Broken Halls. The dust that Honora had gotten into her eyes was dried blood and they needed fresh blood to undo the trap. This gave us access to an ancient library to find this book that should tell us about a comet. It hurt me to see her...well...it's done.
This to investigate a rubbing of a comet which when passing the Four Fools...makes a box with a lid on it. Hmmm....box with a lid. Sappoprias was a vampire...he's freed now and Storold made sure of that by overturning the urn that held his spirit. We left after 'rescuing' Jharl from Ju'sterizxme...a dragon who we appeased with food and some tale telling by Jharl. Poor Jharl. We promised not to reveal Ju'sterizxme's existance lest she fall prey to this Green Dragon Cult who are killing dragons for some experiments...that is another tale.
Jennara has the book and it getting it translated from Draconic. Hope we find something useful.
Ben Poetr has been using a lot of iron. Enough to build a small fortress if you ask me. I don't mind though...Sala Stonhill...Jako...me and sometimes Ben get more from the Ore Hills. But...I admit...seeing Ben sweat a little makes me chuckle a bit.
Got to check the iron stores...feel another iron mining run is in order...
-
No surprise here...
Daniel did ask me to be his Viza Na'Ruvan. Before Ferrit could reach for a dagger...I respectfully declined. When he asked why not...I told him. Everything about the Treana's Old Culture traditions. Seems Treana didn't tell him much yet...but Daniel seemed to be accepting of it. And he asked if Cole would be willing. That would be...interesting. I'll ask Cole but he may not go for it.
I'll go to the Wolfswood to find him. This needs a face to face meeting...
-
Told Cole about Daniel...
But I didn't tell him about what his duties would be as Viza Na'Ruvan for Daniel. I'll wait till he accepts if he does. Now...he is out looking for Aylana. I will join him shortly. Ayalana sometimes goes off into the wild just like Cole did when he went to the Wolfswood Rangers. But this time she is a little overdue to return. It's probably nothing...
Ferrit was a little agitated when she came home. Hedessa Tenario hit on Cole now. And Cole seemed to respond. Hope he knows what he is doing. Xeenites aren't the monogamous type.
I need to get going if I'm going to catch Cole. Sheesh...that kid is invisible in the woods...
-
Changing times ahead...
The area around Dalantar has seen battle...I was involved in a couple of them. Against the giants from Thunder Peaks and werewolves from Carosca Bay. Seems these were related and it all ended with a mountain collapsing. This...however...won't be the end of it I think. There are talk that the 'King' Essantor is still in charge up there...probably planning his next strategy. Time will tell.
And...on the brighter side...I always try to see the brighter side...Shiff and I held a dart throwing tournament to raise money for Jil's orphanage. It was a success as we raised over 12,000 true. A hefty sum that I hope goes to the orphanage and not into Rael's coffers. Jil will be pleased for sure.
And gathering material for the observatory is slow. I only made 22 of 150 iron wheels needed. Finding people to accompany me to the Ore Hills is tough. Probably because they have their own projects to do. I'll make what i can and hope I can get them all done.
Back to work I guess...
-
Disasters have struck...
First, Leringard's Docks district has been laid to waste by a dragon. This dragon bore a message that the truce with Fisterion had been broken and punishment meted out. I hope the 'heroes' responsible will be heroes and admit to it. A lot of damage was done.
And...Mariner's Hold was hit with a tsunami. Speculation that the ocean glowed green before the huge wave hit is chilling. I wonder... Their dock was severely damaged making docking there near impossible. And it looks like Rael is trying to move in to show how much better off the town would be with the steady hand of the Deep Lord. A number of his ships and emissaries arrived the other day. Great...just what we need. A Prantz like city state so close. I just hope King William III does not get taken in by Rael's overtures. I fear that once Rael gets a foothold...he will not leave.
So many need help. But where do I go? Which place needs more? Leringard is closer...but we don't need a despot taking control of Mariner's Hold either.
Ilsare...guide my heart. Tell me which way is the way...
-
Ilsare forgive me...
I am filled with a great rage and hate. Hate for Dark Elves. Treana went missing from us on a bad trip to the Great Rift. The group I was with...Sala...Storold...Treana...Ben...Essa...we all fell there...except Treana. When she didn't appear at the bindstone...we assumed she lived and was trying to get back out. But that wasn't the case...
The Dark Elves had captured and made her a slave. Mistreated her they did. She was left for dead near the Rift when some Aerdinites found her and took her to the Temple in North Point. When I caught up with Ben and Essa...I saw it. It was what was in Treana's eyes that brought this anger and hate in me.
I have seen that look before...many years ago as a boy. In my mother's eyes. I never forgot that look. She too was taken by the Dark Elves and made to be a slave and mistreated. And my half-brother Marcus Canterus was the result of one such...mistreatment. When she was rescued and brought home...she wasn't the person she had been before. She was...broken. It took her a very long time to become Mom again. But...she never was totally the same. I was filled with hate and rage. It was the teachings of an Ilsarian priestess that I was able to cope with it. And my Mastery has taught me discipline.
But...that look in Treana's eyes...the rage returns. Ilsare...forgive me...but next time I'm in the Rift...the Dark Elves will know fear...
-
It was a bit satisfying...
In searching for a specimen of a plant called Unicorn's Tears on Tilmar...the group I was with ran into some Dark Elf undead. Though undead...I was filled with great glee as I cut them almost in half...now...if only it were...
Kyle...get ahold of yourself...
Happier news...Ben and Natalee had twin boys. Stephan and Fianon. Somehow...I can't imagine Ben being a father...but Ilsare can be filled with surprises.
As with Dalan and Grenna...
They are getting married and Grenna is with child. That is going to be interesting. Never been to a dwarf wedding before. One thing's for sure...I won't be walking home from it...not if there is a lot of beer and ale around. The dwarves will no doubt test everyone's fortitude.
It'll be fun...I hope...
-
Shiff Dragonheart is no more...
He has given in to the Soul Mother and is gone. I hear vampires got him at the River of Darkness on Dregar. Why he went there...I don't know. What I do know is there is one less Master now.
To my knowledge there were only 4 of us...Shiff...myself...Barion Firesteed and Dalan Stoneaxe. We are a dying breed. Barion and I aren't getting younger. And Dalan has been reclusive for a while. I once thought of opening a school of weapon mastery. I guess the time to revive the lost art has come.
But...do I have what it takes to be able to teach what I've learned?...
-
Am I losing it?...
Tariana's guild hall statue changed poses. Instead of its usual standing at attention...her sword was held over her head as if she was ready to strike. But Ferrit and Jil say no it wasn't. But it was...I would swear to it. It was as if she was going to strike at me with it. Jil even accused me of drinking too much.
I turned to argue with them...but when I looked at it again...it was in its normal 'at attention' pose. I was dumbfounded.
Maybe I did imagine it. Maybe I need to stay away from the forge fumes for a while...but I swear it changed...
-
Life is complicated...
Rain has been ill for a while...he is pale as a ghost...tired...no will whatsoever. Had something to do with him finding out something with his family...something I think he'd rather not know.
The illness affected him so profoundly...he has retired from the guild. Just said he was leaving and left. This leaves me in charge of the guild. I didn't really want to lead...but I can't let the guild disband.
Maybe after a time...he will return. But...I will not be hopeful for that. He doesn't have too much of his soul left and I think he wants to grow old with Sonya. I wish him all the best.
I have a lot of decisions to make about the guild. Better get to it...
-
I may have found my path...
And it isn't being a Guild Master...but a Grand Master...
Plen Ashaely held a story tell near Blackford Castle the other night. He told us a tale of friendship and betrayal. Of Katia...Karrak...and Eon. It wasn't so much Eon's betrayal that caught my attention...but it is the fact that Karrak was a Grand Master of Weapons. Plen said he had practically invented the Mastery of weapons.
I've always held that one can never truly Master his weapon...but to hear of Karrak...to learn what he learned...to be a Grand Master...
I've written the Great Library to get anything they have on Karrak. Maybe a journal or book that tells of how he became a Master.
It would be pretty big shoes to fill....
-
The Great Library was of little help...if any...
Instead they suggested I contact the Aragenites that they may have records that survived the centuries the Library was lost to the sea. I sent the same request to thier library and wait for them to respond.
It has gotten me thinking though...
About why I was called by Oslo...I was training to be a guard in North Hampshire...at least that is what Dad told me. He insisted on the katana. He insisted I master it. It is why I trained with Cardiana first...then with Addison later on. Was it because of my choice of weapon...my choice of vocation that spurred Oslo to select me? I may never know...
I do know that when Plenarius mentioned Karrak that I feel the need to persue this path. There are so few of us now...I can't let it fade away into history...
-
The Aragenites did have something...
It wasn't much...but it gave me a place to start. After Karrak Diamondback helped Raklin Diamoniar secure the throne of Dregar...he ruled an area of Belinara called the Roughlands and set up a school there...but it may not exist anymore after all this time.
It seems my search will start there. But...it may be hard to travel there. There is a rumor that the Dragon Cult has defeated the Kuhl Kingdom and is now in a truce with the Nesar Kingdom. I may be walking into a battlezone since the Roughlands is in the Hlim Protectorate...and near the border of both Kuhl and Nesar.
No one said the path would be an easy one. A Master's path never is...
-
I can't put this off any longer...
Barion Firesteed has died. The number of Masters grows shorter. There is still Dalan Stoneaxe but he is quite busy with his family. I'm not sure if he still holds to the ways. Steel is a Master and there maybe some I don't know of.
I must go to the Roughlands and find the old school of Karrak Diamondback. I must understand the ways he forged for our profession. The path is laid out now.
Ferrit...she is afraid. And...bless her...she is not shy about telling me so. But this is something I must do. For Cardiana...Addison...for myself. Karrak's legacy must not be lost to time when my time comes to rest.
I must speak with my father first...so many questions I need to ask...
-
*A letter from Ferrit finds Kyle while he is sailing to Vanavar to see his father. Initial surprise turns to a bright smile*
We have a new daughter...
Brittani...don't know her last name. Some bandits killed her family and took a cross of some kind. Ferrit opened her heart to Brittani and took her into our home. Ilsare at work yet again. We'll have to file adoption papers with the City Council...but that shouldn't be a problem.
I'll wrap things up on Vanavar quickly. Seems I have a daughter to meet and greet...
-
*The sounds of swords clashing fills the Vehl arena as Kyle and Fehriel spar. The younger man's strikes are quick but lack focus as Kyle is able to parry them. One of Fehreil's attacks was parried and the weapon is knocked away. Kyle puts up a hand to stop.*
"Let's take a breather. Not bad...for a first session. But you need to learn discipline...focus. A Master's strength comes from that focus. It is how we become one with our weapon. Then...your weapon will stay in your hand...instead of on the floor. *grins* Now...break over...let's try this again..."
*Kyle rises and takes his place on the arena floor...waiting for Fehriel.*
//Continued in Fehriel's CDT
-
*Kyle enters the arena where Fehreil is attacking yet another training dummy. The younger man stops and acknowleges him and goes on hitting the exact same spot time and time again. All the while looking as bored as hell.*
"Master...I know there is a point to this...but I cannot see it. Why is this necessary?" Fehreil asked as he hits the spot yet again.
Kyle says nothing as he takes his place on the arena floor. Fehreil follows and for the next two hours they trade blade blocks. Afterwards...they are walking past the training dummies when Kyle finally speaks. "Good session this time...still a little wild but...OH GODS LOOK OUT!!!!"
On instinct...Fehriel spins around with his two bladed sword and strikes...hitting the dummy in the exact same spot as before. Kyle just smiles.
"Any more questions?" Kyle smirks as Fehreil stares at the dummy surprised...
-
Fehriel wants to bring a friend...
Azai...I think he said. I'm fine with that...as long as she doesn't distract him too much. Women can be at times.
Like when Addison was training me. Ferrit came along to see what went on...and while during the sparring...I glance over at her taking my eyes off of Addison for a split second. That was long enough for Addison to plant me firmly on my arse...annoyed. Spent the next week or so polishing our armor and weapons. Needless to say...Ferrit didn't come during the sessions..meeting me afterwards.
I think I will teach him how to sense an enemy's attack...dodge it and strike. I know he is getting tired of the dummies...
-
*Fehriel enters the arena to find Kyle practicing with his katana...with fluid and effortless motions...his katana slices through the air crisply and with precision. A lone dummy stands in the middle of the floor. With one last spinning slicing move...Kyle pierces the silence with a roaring yell...striking the dummy with one hard precision strike. The dummy explodes into pieces of leather...cotton and wood. He sheathes his katana and looks at his now very attentive student.*
"Now you learn how to make the peaceful stream into a powerful river..."
-
Ilsare has a habit of bringing families together at the strangest times...
The Green Dragon Cult has landed on Mistone where we surmised. Battlehelm Moors. They were trying to find the rumored Bloodpool said to be in Storan's Crypt...so we must be wary when travelling now.
This was the time our daughter Aylana returns to us. She has lost Nicky...her love for the past few years. Never did like him...but if Aylana was happy...who am I to question Ilsare?
Fehreil is also in a quandry. He worries about Azai. That he loves her is no surprise to me. Try as he might...he shows it like a lighthouse in the fog. He told me of his worries of he and Azai having children. Which is difficult if not downright impossible nowadays. He is a tiefling...she an elf. Someone told him that an adopted child would not be the same as one of their own...but I beg to differ. As long as the love is true...an adopted child would be as blood and not to worry so.
Time to prepare...the Cult is here...
-
*Kyle watches as Fehriel looks at a covered glass of water. Fehreil's breathing is slow and steady and with one quick strike...stabs at the glass of water causing the water to ripple. Kyle's inspection reveals a scratch where the blade ever so slightly grazed the glass. He nods and faces Fehriel.*
"Very good Fehriel...however...your concentration is off a bit...not allowing you to fully utilize your ki. Anything troubling you?"
*Kyle replaces the damaged glass with a new one and fills it.*
-
The time has come to give my blade a name...
Addison told me to grow into the weapon...to have it become part of my being. I do feel it as a part of me...and it is time to give it identity.
I shall call it 'Frostscalpel'. I think Addison would approve. It's icy touch and my skill in wielding it makes it a fitting name for a Master's weapon. We shall continue to grow together as one.
Think I will go visit Addison's crypt. It has been a very long time since I paid respects to my mentor...
-
I need to see the Aragenites again...
The last session with Fehriel reminded me of a legend involving Karrak. This session he was going all out...determined to defeat me. His strikes are stronger...more focused as ever. He almost disarmed me with quick short focused strike. Almost. It might be time...
It's that spirit of competition where the legend comes in. Addison had spoken once of a 'Guild of Power' where Masters of all walks of life and weapon came together in a competition to see who was the best at his weapon. This competition was run by none other than Karrak Diamondback. This is a confirmation of that 'school' he was supposed to have setup.
I must write...no...think I'll go see the Aragenites and find out more of this 'Guild of Power'. Then I might know where to look for that school...
-
*After being summoned to the Vehl arena expecting this to be another sparring session...Fehreil sees Kyle...in his usual spot on the floor...but with one stark difference...Kyle is not dressed in his adamantium reinforced robes but in his battle armor holding not the practice katana...but Frostscalpel. Kyle speaks...*
"So...you now fancy yourself a Master now. Now is the time you prove it. Defeat me 3 times before I defeat you 10. On guard!!!"
*Kyle snaps into a ready stance...*
//Continued in Fehriel's CDT. This will go back and forth a few times.
-
The Fehriel's test went off just as I had hoped...
It was brutal...he would call on all his inner ki to hit me...I would just deflect the strikes. He tries to knock me down...I just send him down. He tries to sweep my legs...I just hop aside. There was no holding back in this one. Like a fierce lion he kept coming. And time after time...he was beaten.
The frustration was building in him...right to the point that he resorted to blinding me. It was the only time he bested me. Cheap shot...maybe...I am not above such tactics. Fehreil apologized for it...but he was confusing tactics with mastery.
Dejected...he stopped fighting and declared himself not ready. It was then I knew. I knew he was ready. Although he did not see it.
Defeating me wasn't the true objective of this test. I needed to see how he handled his weapon...and how he handles himself. And I must say...he has become one with his weapon. And he knows his limitations. And I let him know this after he almost gave up. The look on his face when I called him Master...he has just taken the first steps in a long journey...a journey I myself am still on.
But for now...I am honored to count my student...no...my friend...among a Master of Weapons.
-
What the Hells has gotten into Essa and Amgine lately?...
From what I've been told...they have been sniping at each other about their deities for a while now...the last time bringing Elly to tears.
I know Xeen and Rofirein aren't the best of friends...but I have never heard Essa bad mouth any of Rofirein's followers...at least not to the extent relayed to me. Guild trips have been curtailed somewhat because of this. I'm hesitant to put a memorial to Daniel Poetr in the hall because of it.
The guild is supposed to be a family...and like all families...they will disagree and bicker from time to time. And...it needs to be aired out before something happens.
There is something more here...something I hope I can find out when I bring the two of them together. Ilsare...if ever there is a time for your love and wisdom...this is it.
-
Amgine and Essa have buried the hatchet...
They have put their quarrel to rest and the trips have resumed. I'm even getting out and going on a few. I haven't been in a while...and well...I am the Guild Master and I should go on them more often.
I haven't lost my desire to find Karrak Diamondback's Guild of Power hall...just need to find someone who knows more about it. But where?
Where does the path start?
-
Well...a new addition to the family...maybe...
Ben Poetr. Yeah...I know...the guild is a family...but I mean he is thinking of asking Aylana to marry him. I didn't know about it until Ferrit let it slip on a mining run in Haven Mines. It'll be weird calling Ben 'son'. He's a little on the fence about it.
And...Ben has been the de facto Guild Master. I wonder if the guild thinks I've abdicated the leadership to him. And I wonder if I still have a place in it.
So much time and blood invested in it. I just don't know...
-
It's official...
Ben will marry Aylana and become my son-in-law. And he asked Essa to officiate. That's going to be some party. Xeenite weddings are the party hardy types. No one will be sober for a few days afterwards.
And I finally got to the Roughlands near Fort Miritrix. The starting place for my search for Karrack's guild. The place was crawling with constructs and trollocs...but there was one place that looked like it could have been an arena of sorts. Salaadi had taken up residence there and my group had to clear it out before I can look. I couldn't find anything there to suggest it was a meeting place for Masters...but I can't discount it either. We had to move to keep more Salaadi from ambushing us.
I'll have to go back to take a closer look at the place. Plus...there are caves in the area that could also be sites of the guild. So much to investigate. Maybe buying a few drinks in the tavern in Miritrix will loosen some memories of the area.
Steel proposed something that the guild could do. He proposed that the guild build an 'Arts Center' in Hempstead as a gift to lighten the mood of the people. The details need to be worked at before I present it to the Council...but it is a sound idea. Something to give back to the city that we have made a nice living in.
Somehow...I still have a place as Guild Master...
-
Word is getting around...
Sarah In'Darsus wants to train as a Master of Weapons. Guess Fehriel has let it out that I train. This is all good...except I feel unworthy of such an honor. Karrack was the first and true Grand Master...I'm just teaching those what I know. If I can only walk in his steps...feel what he must have felt...maybe I will be worthy.
Guess Fehriel and Sarah is a start...
-
*Amgine and Huntemara arrive at the Vehl arena where the see Kyle in the middle dressed in his adamantium reinforced robes. They take turns sparring with Kyle...who is in a defensive style...parrying all strikes.*
"Not bad...both of you. Your strikes are hard but strength isn't in how hard you hit...but in how one places the hit...how one focuses their energy. It is this focus that makes you one with your weapon...and your weapon one with you. We will work on focus."
*The next hour is spent on practice dummies Kyle showing them how to place their shots.*
//Continues in Amgine's and Huntemara's CDTs.
-
*Sparring time in Vehl again. This time Huntemara and Amgine are more focused...more deliberate in their strikes. Still...Kyle is able to parry them. He notices their frustration building and stops for a break. As they cross the arena floor next to a pillar ...Kyle tugs at a rope attached to it yelling..."Look out!!!". Amgine and Huntemara instinctively spin around striking two dummies that were released from the ceiling. They each hit their target...right where the always strike the dummies. They turn to look at Kyle...surprised.*
"Nice to see the practice is paying off. You didn't even think about it...you just did it. You and your weapon just reacted. That is the start of you and your blades becoming one with each other. Well done!!"
*In the resting area...he sits on the floor in front of them.*
"Now...I show you how to feel the inner energy...your ki. How it can be a peaceful stream or a powerful river."
*They spend the next half-hour in meditation.*
-
The Leringard Arms has burned down...
Some careless fool set fire to the place. I remember all the times I went there to sell things or just to kick back and down a few and listen to stories. I remember the time Ferrit and I got all decked out and dance the better part of a night away there.
And the time Acacea drank me under the table. (//Yes, Acacea...I honestly remember that... :) ) Never did get a re-match.
Now...it is lost. Hope they rebuild...but it'll never be the same...
-
*A very drunk hand writes this entry*
Disaster!!!
The Guild Hall is ruined!!! A tsunami hit Port Hempstead and has all but destroyed the guild hall. Everything we worked for...all that we built...gone.
Gone too is our house in Krandor. The tsunami reached that far north. Homeless in both places. Disasters everywhere...I..don't know where to start...
*The writing trails off*
-
These are trying times...
I'm dividing my attention between Krandor...my home...and Port Hempstead...my livelihood. I'm pulled in two different directions and it is getting difficult to decide which to concentrate on most.
Should devote more time in Krandor...but the Guild can be a force to restore Hempstead to some sort of normalcy after this is passed.
Both places need help...but which one? Wish I can split myself in two.
-
Well...now it's a waiting game...
I secured and boarded up the house in Krandor...and locked and boarded up the guild hall in Port Hempstead. Ben and crew did a good job. Now we wait. Wait to see what comes of our future.
Cole has decided to stay in Krandor to help them shore up before the next wave hits. He should be fine. But there is no sign of Brittani. Cole said he will still look for her. She has got to be fine...got to be.
Ben and Aylana have decided to adopt. Making me a step-grandfather. Oh...the joy of spoiling the grandchild and sending him back to his parents. They will be fine parents.
I feel different. Like a man half my age. Stronger...more lively. Felt this way ever since I helped cull spiders in the Sielwood. Their numbers grew since the weather has caused the tsunami. When I got home and took a nap...a strange feeling of warmth caused me to wake up. I even look younger. Strange...
Well...hopefully we will still have a future that my new found vigor can help shape...
-
The storm hit with all of Mist's fury...
They don't call her the Lady of Doom for nothing. Why does Ilsare think favorably of her while Mist would dine with Corath? But then again...the gods are a mystery to us.
Ferrit...myself and Wren Thendor helped with the last minute evacuations of Krandor and prepared for the inevitable. And...for the love of Ilsare...the storm was furious. Anything not tied down flew by with deadly speed...rain pelted us like arrows.
The druids were doing their absoulte best to ward the town from the worst of it...but Zire...the priestess of Katia who was out on the main barrier was having a difficult time with it. Her wards started failing..exposing her to potential death in the teeth of the storm.
Couldn't let that happen. Ferrit...Wren and I had fastened a boat to a log wedged between two trees and rowed out to meet her. It was tough and perilous...we almost got blown off course twice but managed to reach her and pull her to safety. And not a moment too soon. She was bruised and battered and drained. We got her to land..and the sight of her being safe heartened the druids because the barrier seemed to hold without Zire...the druids doubling their efforts to pick up the slack.
It worked. Krandor was spared the full fury of the storm...lots of lives were spared including Zire...but the town is still in shambles. It will be quite a while before people can move back home. Including us.
I would co-ordinate the rebuilding effort in Krandor. With what ever supplies the guild can spare. It's my home. I will get in touch with those in Port Hempstead later.
Ilsare was certainly watching over us today...
-
The guild has already been donating...
The Guild Ledger shows:
Donation to Hempstead Tsunami Relief = 134,796 trues in items
Donation to Mistone Defense = 13,023 trues in armor and enchantments
Donation to Karst Tsunami Relief = 6,183 trues in items
Donation to Krandor Tsunami Relief = 25,063 trues in items
I am proud to be the Guild Master of such a group of caring individuals. I'd make them honorary Ilsarians if I could.
I will present these receipts to the proper people to show our support.
-
Essa's in a bad way...
She took the brunt of the storm in Hempstead...and is paying a very steep price. Not just the bruises and cuts...but of the mind.
She is having these recurring nightmares which cause her pain...enough pain to not want her Xeenite Red. Enough pain that she cannot be touched. And for a Xeenite...that is unheard of.
Jaelle Thornwood has a way to interpret these nightmares in hopes of alleviating the pain. At least that is my understanding of it. She needs time to prepare...and I will be there...if only to lend moral support to Essa. I hope this will bring Essa some relief.
Murder in the Ilsare Temple in Hlint. A young couple soon to be wed were murdered right in the temple garden. Witnesses say the assailants were dressed as Corathites. To have young love...ready to blossom to its fullest...cut down before it can...appalling. Andrew Reid has contacted me for help. I will lend my help...because frankly...I grow weary of the attacks being directed to the Lady nowadays and it has to stop. Militant...maybe.
But Ilsare needs a protector now.
-
The ritual was a success...
Whatever Jaelle did seems do have worked...Essa is back to her old flirty...party hardy Xeenite self. There was some rough moments from the get go...Essa was not allowed to fall asleep...but started to right away. Ben and I did everything to keep her awake short of hitting on her for a change. Immmediately...the pain stopped and she was back to hitting on me as if nothing happened. That's the Essa I know and love.
Time will tell though if the nightmares she had have stopped. Don't think she can go through that again.
-
The ways of the Weapon Master are spreading...
Fehreil has told me he has trained one Vrebel in the ways of a Master of the Greatsword. I have held that no matter the weapon...it is how that weapon becomes one with its wielder that makes one a Master.
It heartens me to see the ways being revived. However...we still need a place where all Masters of Weapons can come to hone our skills...and keep the ways of Karrak Diamondback from fading into history.
But for now...one Master at a time will have to do...
-
So much has happened...
Our guild hall has been remodeled. A secondary customer entrance has been made and the general layout has been changed. We even put a statue of Daniel Poetr up in the ballroom. We started moving some of our wares back from Haft Lake. I will keep some there for ease if any on Dregar needs goods. The new hall will serve us well.
14 years in the making...
The search for the dragon cure still goes forth. Slowly ever since a pair of Jhemina have been relocated under the care of the Great Emerald. Only one reagent remains. I won't write here...too unsecure. Suffice it to say we need to enlist the help of people who aren't too trusting of us. Us being a general term. I hope we could convince them to help us.
And time marches on...
-
*The writing on this page is more illegible scribble than anything else...a shaky hand wrote it...but three words stand out...*
Ben Poetr dead...
-
They say things happen in three's...
First...Ben has died...
Just slipped away and got himself killed. Just like him to do that. A Toranite guard found his remains and buried him. Poor Lana...she and the kids will have a hard time of it. Luckily Grandpa Kyle is here. Zira has been appointed as Ben's replacement as Guild Captain. Replacement...doesn't sound right...successor...that's better...
Second...Sonya's gone too...
Got killed gathering spotted 'shrooms near Stort. Apparently...her invisibility wasn't up to snuff and she got killed. She...Rain...myself...and Ferrit are the founding four of the guild. We miss her.
Third...a surprise...a letter from Rain...
Our founder...my friend...my brother...has gone to tend Folian's forest. Which means one thing...the illness that he left the guild over is close to taking him. I will make sure his memory lives in all of us. May he be re-united with Sonya when he goes on his final hunt...
Statues will be put in the Hall of the Fallen in the Guild Hall. Their memories will ever be present then...
-
I have made a decision...
I have decided to step down as Guild Master of the Angels. I am not able to devote the time as I used to when Rain left to tend Folian's forests. I appointed Alazira as Guild Mistress until the guild decides on a permanent replacement. Hells...she was practically running the place anyway.
I'll still be a member of the Angels...just not its Master. And to be truthful...it feels as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I can now devote time to reviving the Guild of Power...that school of Weapon Masters Karrak Diamondback started many years ago. I hope I am successful.
It is what needs to be done...
-
War is brewing on Dregar...
The armies of Rael are massing along the border of the Rael Kingdom. The build up is said to be in response to Dark Elf incursions on towns in Rael. Right...and I am Ozlo reborn. Don't believe a word of it. Especially since about 11,000 or more troops are along the southern border with Lor.
I even heard that the Mayors and Diet have granted 'requests' made by Lord Rael. That leaves a bad taste in my mouth. And this is just the start.
Lor will become an extension of Prantz where the state controls what is said...done...thought.
I hope they come to their senses in Lor and tell Rael where to go with his 'requests' before it's too late...
-
Rael has been sent reeling...
First...war did come to Lor. It started when Rael's armies occupied Castle Mask and held one of Lor's representatives. A clear act of war. The Lor army answered by routing the larger Rael Southern Army. The Raelians were forced to retreat back to Prantz. Good on Lor!!!
Second...Prantz was attacked and was set ablaze. Part of the reason the remaining troops went back to Rael. The rumor is the Green Dragon Cult is responsible. Maybe...
I'd be lying if I say I'm am totally sorry Prantz is burning...Jil's orphanage is there as is our Dregar warehouse. But..this shows for once that Rael is not infallable...that he can be dealt with. I've walked Prantz' streets...seen the 'happiness' around...if that is what it can be called. It is for the people of Prantz I am sorry for...sorry that this will displace a lot of them.
As for 'Lord' Rael...well...I'll not write it here...
-
A price on my head...just for being me...
The Lord of Ash...Lester Tremaine of Kuhl...has put a bounty on any and all adventurers and their families. Already dozens have been killed for the trues.
They just want those who have the ability and the will to stand up to Kuhl and their Cult masters out of the way...for what...I don't know.
In the meantime...let them come. Any mercenary or assassin who tries to collect on me will have his head shipped to Tremaine.
That message will be clear...
-
*Blows dust off his journal*
The war is just about over....but if I learned anything...nothing is truly over. The Cult has been driven back to Kuhl...it's plague cured. Now they plan to oust this Molvaren and reclaim Kuhl. So...the war still goes on I guess. And I begrudgingly respect the Kingdom of Rael for their part on Dregar. They pushed them out of Audira and back to Belinara and great cost in casualties. Still don't trust them...but they earned some respect...for now.
There is a ball in Erylin at the Fort of Kings for past and present heroes of the realm. I joined one of the competitions...but wasn't allowed a katana. Still...did well to gain the respect of my opponent. Then I hear that our old friend...Honora...the once illiterate poor half-orc girl who became a proud Erylin noble...died in her home.
I can remember when Ferrit and I first met her. Dirty...disheveled and barely spoke Common...she grew to become a dear friend. I will miss her deeply. I await any word on a state funeral in which I'm sure to attend.
More to write about later...
-
Life's path takes many twists and turns...
This one is a good one...and unexpected. The ball itself was a grand gathering of Erylin's society. Her nobles and commoners alike...it was a bit overwhelming at first.
It was at the ball that the surprise had come. After mingling with the many guests and dances with Ferrit...Her majesty the Queen addressed the crowd. She praised those who serve the crown today...and solemnly remembered Erylin's fallen. She also eulogized Honora for her service to the crown.
She then announced the formation of a new branch of the Knights of Erylin. They will embody the spirit of co-opertation in people from all over for the common good. I was surprised when I saw that Ferrit and I were named as honorary Knights.
This is a high honor. Honorary or not...I'll try to live up to the ideals the Knights represent. Quite a twist in my path.
Honora would have been be proud of us...
-
One lesson always reminds me on my path...
One must know his limits. Unfortunately...finding those limits comes with a high price.
The...Wyrmsbane Ordeal I'll call it...was just such a limit. That it was presumed to be a simple journey to recover some ancient artwork was arrogant so say the least...deadly to say the worse.
Magics that played on emotions...angry undead...and elven statues on a inaccessable atoll proved to be more that we can handle. We lost Amgine to the undead...almost lost Elly to them...Jil cast into an inconsolable depression...too high a price to ensure a sponsor in the Council for a building project. Way too high. But Andrew says we will re-group and better prepare to try it again...we Ilsarians are always optimistic...almost to the point of hubris.
Maybe my limit has been reached as well...maybe the Path of a Master is coming to an end...Maybe I was not meant to walk this path to begin with...
-
I need guidance...
My life has stopped. I don't go to the guild hall much anymore. At home...Ferrit and I barely say two words to each other. I find myself just wandering listlessly around Port Hempstead or Krandor...no rhyme or reason. My blacksmithing has suffered. It even has been a while since I wrote anything in here. Life just...stopped.
I don't know why. Don't remember when I last felt good about anything. I need help sorting things out. Maybe some time at the Breath will sort me out.
Maybe life will start again...
-
Ok...the gods are getting mischeivous...
The constellations and stars that are attributed to Deliar, Dorand, Goran, Lucinda, Prunilla and Shindelaria have all moved into a circle around the one attributed to Aragen. This has formented a general concern in some...panic in others. Tried to get to Erylin but the ships won't leave port because they say the can't navigate without the stars in their usual positions. Can't say I blame them...it is disconcerting.
Something is going on with them. Something that my Lady Muse sees fit to not join them. After all...Ilsare does not like Aragen much and chooses to stay away. I am ill equipped or very knowledgeable about such things. First I am going to speak to the clerics at the Deliar temple here in Port Hempstead.
But I will need some guidance from the Heartsong. Some inspiration to why this is happening. Couldn't hurt...
-
The gods were giving us a warning...
The shift in constellations was a warning from the gods themselves. The other incidents of missing people and the disease 'Fastrot' was all the doings of Milara and his latest attempt to become a god.
He was using a device called The Conduit to try and syphon off divine magics from people who were inclined to have such magic. This was...I think..was causing the 'Fastrot' as it was making people dissolve into gory puddles. Didn't have a chance to see this and not sure I wanted to.
Anyway...using a device called the Failsafe...we tracked the Conduit to the Mountains of Madness where we disrupted Milara doing something...couldn't tell what. He fled and we killed his undead soldiers and his Triumph and vaunted Pet. Big time blow to him. He has vanished to lick his wounds and plot again. We haven't heard the last of him.
The Conduit is being returned to its rightful place with some gnomes we encountered in the woods near Leringard. They were a little dismayed at the tinkering Milara did to it...but they're gnomes...they can probably undo what he did to it. Crafty little buggers they are.
All is well again...until the next crisis strikes. Wait till I tell Ferrit I helped defeat Milara somewhat...