The World of Layonara
Character Development => Development Journals and Discussion => Topic started by: twidget658 on May 15, 2005, 02:13:00 PM
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*Lifting the bow in his left hand and marveling at it's simplicity and it's power*
This simple piece of wood with a taught string attached, that I have made with my own hands, is the difference between life and death. My arrows are straight and sharp. My aim is improving. This simple weapon protects my companions and me. Ultimately, it will be used to destroy evil.
*Lowers the faithful bow to his side and ensures that his quiver is full*
*Lowers head in prayer*
I pray that you, the Prince of Wolves, will continue to aid me in my crafting skills and blesses every weapon that I make and wield. May the weapons that you provide me be used to protect your nature; your animals that aid me, feed me, and cloth me; your forest that shelters me; and the companions that journey with me. I will walk in the path that you lay down for me. May it serve your purpose; I am your servant for your cause.
*Raises head with a lightened heart*
I am but a single elf of low significance at this point of my new life. In order for me to be able to help the land and to better destroy evil, I need to find a way to improve myself. A way to improve my abilities and hone my archery skills.
Adventuring has taught me so much since I have left Voltrex. I have met some humans that are tolerable and that have taken me in. They are different from the stories that I have heard about humans. However, the arrogance part is true. I will protect my new companions faithfully and will accompany them wherever they go. Will they be my new family? We will have to wait and see.
*Thinking about his companions Yar, Kavil, Esimon, Rawkwin, Emerald, and Dorax*
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*rips the page out*
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*Recalling what was witnessed at the Gnoll Watch Tower, the Sword Rust Mountains, and the headquarters of the Gnoll's Viper clan*
I have seen the powers of the arcane archer. The power was displayed by Talan, who I have not directly talked to yet. I had the pleasure of shooting my bow in battle at his side. His accuracy was stunning; his strikes were hard; the amount of wood delivered to the bodies of the enemy was incredible. I feel that Talan is the source of the wisdom and knowledge that I seek to become such an archer.
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*A sigh of success*
I did it! I finally improved my wood crafting enough to make my first oak bow and bow of the hunter. Grandpa would be so proud. I shall send him a message.
*Thinks about Darthoriadin for a moment*
*Sighs and continues to write*
This is the first step of improvement that I need to help the cause of my companions, the others against evil, and me. I still have not talked with the one named Talan. I will continue to seek him out and spend time with him to gain knowledge about the advanced uses of the bow.
I have adventured almost everywhere on Mistone. This land is no longer foreign to me. My companions, even though are mostly humans, have been of great aid and comfort. They have accepted me as much as I have accepted them. We do have our differences and at times, these differences get in the way. But, we have managed to work through them and have become a strong party. Our skills compliment each other’s, even in our crafting. It has started to take the form of a family instead of just an adventuring group.
There are others who have supported our growth. The one that has done the most for us is Tomas Vambrace, a fighter and healer. Come to find out, he is also one of our neighbors. He proves to be an extreme asset to our party and I enjoy traveling with him. He has great knowledge in combat and a level head. I look forward to fighting next to his side again.
*Closes journal. Thinks about what the future may hold. Dozes off to sending impressive volleys of arrows at the evil ones and adventuring with his ‘friends’. *
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The other day I was running through the Krandor outskirts when all of a sudden *ka thunk* right into the chest of an ogre. What in the heck is an ogre doing in the middle of the road? Luckily I had m bow in hand, and after a little dancing, the ogre was down. However, he had companions; a lot more than usual. Knowing that I was outnumbered, I ran towards Fort Hope in search of my companions, Yar, Rawkwin, Esimon, Emerald, and Kavil. As I entered in to the Broken Forest, there they were, with the exception of Esimon. Who entered the forest right behind me.
Bleeding and battered, Esimon started telling us in short choppy sentences how an ogre mage held him down and stood on his chest. The mage wanted to know spells. Esimon was his means of getting them. So we headed to our house in Fort Hope.
After a bit of rest, Esimon started telling the story of how the ogres over powered him and held him against the ground. The ogres had a mage that wanted Esimon to teach him spells. Esimon taught them some spells to gain his liberty. We determined that if they were going to mess with one of our party, they would have to deal with us all.
We headed to Port Hampshire so Emerald could get a certain sword from the bank. As we started to leave through the gates, Annun showed up covered in blood. She was tired from battle and running. She commenced telling us about the fort that the ogres constructed in the outskirts of Krandor. There were numerous ogres holding the fort. Between Esimon’s story and Annun’s, we knew we had to act quickly to prevent the spread of the knowledge that Esimon gave unwillingly.
We decided to dispatch someone with the news to the authorities. To parallel the delivery of the report, we headed to the ogre fort to try and eliminate the threat.
As we approached the outskirts of Krandor, we noticed a large number of ogres. We started fighting out way through until we reached the fort. We took out the garrison and made our way inside. Annun found some papers an d other items generated by the ogres. The papers contained the spells that the collected from Esimon. Once all the ogres were terminated, Kavil sent in some fireballs to destroy the fort. All was peaceful once again.
As all this was happening, I realized the power of magic. I look back to when I first met Esimon. A leaf could and would knock him to the ground. But as he grew in experience with his magic, his endurance grew as well. His magic became more powerful and better controlled. He became wiser and more stead fast. So I thought, with the power of magic combined with the authority of the bow, what a powerful weapon that would be against evil. I need to learn the ways of the wizard to add the influence of magic to the ability of the bow. I shall seek this wisdom from Esimon.
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* Sits on the ground under a massive oak and leans back against it*
The day started uneventful. I was running around collecting some tin and copper for a little crafting. I received a message from Aralin that he had a weapon ready that I had requested. So, seeing how the crafting was starting to get a bit dull, I decided to meet Aralin at his house in Fort Hope.
* Glances up at the boughs of the tree to notice a squirrel leaping from branch to branch*
As I arrived, Aralin was in company with Talan. Aralin invited me in to conduct business. As I entered the house, I noticed a horseman arriving carrying large flag. We exited the house and Talan informed us that Leilon was under attack by pirates. Without delay, Aralin, Talan, and I set out towards Leilon to thwart the attack.
* Pauses to inhale the wind that is starting to pick up*
As we arrived in Leilon, we were met with 20-30 pirates; and they were not all still living. They rushed us from alleyways. After a fierce battle, we all still stood. The blood was running and the breaths were short. But the first barrage was eradicated.
Shortly after the end of the battle, our reinforcements arrived. Some faces were new to me, others I have met in previous events. *Trying to recall some of the names that were spoken, Plen, Bris, Gul, Cole…and thinking that the names were not fully spoken* We joined forces and headed into the docks. The pirates there were barricaded in. After some scouting and deliberating, we decided to attack and get it over with. We were successful in defeating the pirates and destroying the barricades.
As the last pirate fell on the pier, we approached one of the pirate’s vessels. We spoke to different pirates to try and gain some information. However, these pirates were prone to fighting, not talking. They all were put to rest.
Reading over the ship’s logs and reviewing the charts, it was apparent that the ship sailed too near to the Forsaken Isle. There was a seer onboard who was a follower of Mist that tried to get the crew to convert. The once that resisted were turned to ‘killed’, but still were walking.
The body of the seer was not onboard. It was decided to check the Temple of Mist to try and locate the seer. She was found. The seer was a true follower of Mist and the Healer in the temple would not reason with us about turning the seer over. Seeing how the seer had neither crew nor ship, it was determined that she was no threat and was under the protection of the temple.
Afterwards, while we were milling about, I ask Talan about the bow that he wields. I noticed that his arrows struck very hard and caused colossal damage. He presented his bow *Wow, Talan’s bow* for me to look at and examine. I have not seen this type of bow before. It had a string that was wrapped around some wheels at the end. I recognized the wood as being mahogany; great wood for a bow. Once again, I got to fight next to the master archer, Talan.
* Glances at the bow laying on the grass by his side*
Some day.
* Stands, grabs the bow, and continues to patrol the forest*
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*Scribbles some notes onto some loose papers from his pack on the lone walk back to Fort Hope from Fort Velensk’s Docks*
Rawkwin was a target of a crime this day. While he was trying to conduct business with Kobal at the bank in Fort Llast, a rogue snuck in and lifted the property that was going to be sold. An emerald! Rawkwin sent messages to Esimon, Emerald, and me to help with the tracking and recovery of the stolen gem.
*Stops for a second to clear the swamp mud from the bottom of his boots*
As I caught up to Rawkwin, Kobal was already on the trail of the thief. The tracks were pretty easy to detect due to the walking characteristics of the thief. We tracked him to the Faraway Forest, known to the people on Mistone as the Broken Forest, and was trying to determine which direction he went. A horse and cart entered the forest from the North and proceeded to the South to Fort Hope. He did not stop for us for long in the forest so we followed him to the pawnshop in Fort Hope.
*Leans against an ant mound to take a drink of water*
Some in the party, specifically Aralin, accused the merchant and the pawnshop owner of hiding information. And even charged them with possibly taking and dealing the stolen good. Needless to say, we had very little cooperation with them after that. Emerald tried to ‘convince’ the driver of the cart to tell her what he knew about the event. It did not work. Found out later that he did not know anything anyway. Well, everyone went into the inn and Emerald and me stayed with the pawnshop owner. I tried to make amends for the unjust accusations. He started telling of that he did see a guy run through to the South that looked like he was running from someone or something. He also stated that the guy looked nervous and even ran with a limp. We knew that was our guy.
*Calls Baloo to his side while to fight off any straggling griffons in the area*
I told Emerald to inform the others and that I was going to get on the trail. We tracked and followed the trail to Fort Velensk. As we search around the town, I wondered down to the docks. *Baloo targets and takes care of a single griffon as I keep writing* To my surprise, there was a pirate ship there and the crew was on the pier. I let the others know about the ship and we approached. We notice a guy matching the description from the pawnshop owner onboard talking to the pirate captain. We tried to negotiate for the thief, but the pirates would not budge. So we had to budge them forcibly.
*Checks the griffon for loot*
*Rubs Baloo’s head and awards him with a piece of freshly made jerky*
As we tried to apprehend the rogue, he tries to escape over the railing. He slips, falls and knocks himself senseless. Rawkwin searches the unconscious rogue and finds the gem and a note. The note mentioned something about his sister being taken. We revive the thief and start to interrogate the reason for his conduct. He tells us about the people of his village being taken and that his sister was one of them. He took the gem to try and offer someone the gem to be able to get her back. We offer our assistance and he gladly accepts. The gem recovered and a assignment taken. We need to find out why these people are being taken, where they have gone and can we recover his sister?
*Arrives at the house in Fort Hope for a much needed rest*
*Puts the papers in the chest at the head of his bedroll and doses off to sleep*
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*Lays down on the bedroll in his room of the house*
This seems like a good time to reminisce a little about what I have done when I started here on Mistone; before I started the journal of my experiences and thoughts. I can’t recall the order, but I definitely remember the taskings.
When I arrived at Hlint, it was a very friendly place. It was new and I knew nothing about it. That is when I met Rawkwin, Yar, Esimon, and Kavil. Together, we decided we were going to make a name for ourselves. So, as a group, we started helping the local town folks with their problems.
The local undertaker, Erag, was having problems with a dark soul in the town’s crypt. We encountered many skeletons, zombies and ghouls on the way to the creature. Finally, atop a flight of stairs presiding over a ghoulish horde we saw the dark soul. The dark soul was quite the challenge but we conquered the creature and gathered the essence. As we presented the essence to Erag, he seemed impressed and very grateful.
*Takes a moment to reflect on how tough the beginning was. *
The knuckles that we had found in the crypts were of great use as well. Come to find out, Jasmine the Swamp Witch in the High Moors was always looking for some. We ventured into the High Moors and met some resistance with the lizardmen. They were tough, but we were triumphant. We delivered 20 knuckles to Jasmine. She was not a pleasant sight, but the reward was good. Also, the satisfaction that we have completed another mission was a reward in itself.
Another small tasking that we undertook was helping Florah the Tax Collector. The Ratman of Hlint had somehow stolen the tax records for the town and taken them deep into the sewers. As the pride of the group increased, we gladly accepted the expedition and told her we would get them back for her. Rats were everywhere, threatening to overwhelm us with their sheer number. Spiders were there working on conjunction with the rats. This is when I learned how much I hate spiders. We finally located the Ratman and put him to rest for his deeds. Since negotiations were not an option. We retrieved the records and delivered them to Florah. She was very glad to have them back. And the secrets that were there as well.
Quartermaster Talon was having some problems with the goblin scouts in the Goblin Wasteland. He requested that we bring him five ears from these scouts. That was not that hard of a job, but the goblins shot arrows at us. We managed to neutralize them and collect the ears. Another satisfied customer Quartermaster Talon was for the services of our group.
Then there is Ronus the Wagon Master. Poor dwarf was attacked by goblins and robbed. We were determined to help him and revenge the attack. The quest took us deep into the goblin mines of the wastelands. Lots of goblins were just as determined to prevent us from completing our tasking. But, through perseverance and sheer will power, we came through. We emerged from the underground with the head of the goblin leader. As we gave Ronus the head, he granted each of us a pair of boots, which makes it more difficult for our enemies to hit us.
This seems to be a good spot to stop for now. The battles of the day are exhausting and the sun will be up soon.
*Closes the journal and shortly afterwards, doses off*
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We really stepped in it this time.
There were several of us down collecting silver when the Blue Dragon showed up. Yzyartkadrania apparently thinks that the silver is hers and she accused us of stealing it from her. She was going to torch us all if she didn’t get someone to be a sacrifice for the group. I looked around and decided that I was the most expendable and turned myself over to her. I feel that the lives of my friends are more valuable than my own, so it was not that difficult of a decision to make.
A deal was struck, I would be her offering to Fisterion and the lives of my companions would be spared. The Blue Dragon released me form her clutches and effectively put me in the Great Red’s. I will travel to Firesteep to fulfill my contract with the Lord of Dragons… [to be continued]
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Well, I met the Great Red and turned myself over to him...at first.
Things have changed. I could not and did not perform the first two commands given to me (first-sign a contract in blood; second-to burn the flag of the Longstrider) so the Lord of Dragons had to up the stakes. He gave me three ultimatums:
- Shed my blood on the altar of Pyrtechon and kill the healer of the Temple of Folian S’pae
- Find someone that will take my place as a servant to Fisterion
- Find a worthy offering to fulfill our contract
… [to be continued]
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I have decided to travel to the Forest of Mist to the Temple of Folian S'pae and pray on the issues at hand. I will pray for enlightenment and the next steps that I should take to appease Fisterion and more importantly, his father Pyrtechon.
I am hoping the answer is to find a worthy offering that will satisfy them. This is the least evil of the ultimatums. Then, I will seek the offering and present it to Fisterion … [to be continued]
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Riley, Esimon, Kavil, and Annun, and I went to the temple of the Longstrider to see what needs to be done. It appears that The Prince of Wolves is one of Pyrtechon’s targets. It is basically, the same thing that happened to Shindaleria. Carocsa was killed and Mist gained the upper hand. Shindaleria lost significant power and the sea elves could not stay in the seas.
Now Folian S’pae is at great risk. It was tasked for me to kill the healer at the temple of Folian. If that event had tookeb place, a follower of Folian killing the healer of the temple, the faith in the god would take a devastating hit and other followers would almost certainly disband and there would be very few, if any, new followers. The strength of the Longstrider would quickly fade.
The decision to unite the gods against Prytechon was made. We will be seeking the high priests and followers of allied gods to be communicators to their gods to join forces with Folian S’pae. Also, the high priests and followers for gods that are Pyrtechon’s enemies are sought as well.
The threat: Prytechon will just go after the next god if the Longstrider becomes too difficult to get. He will attempt to pick them off one by one. The gods must join forces to suppress the Raging One… [to be continued]
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*As he searches through his pack for some food, he stumples across his journal*
*as if he has forgotten the book* Oh, my journal. *Takes it from the pack, blows the dust and lint from it and opens it to the last enrty*
*Finds a writing utensil from the bottom of his pack and adds another entry*
My decision to learn the ways of the Arcane Archer has changed. My path is for a ranger. My sword skills are to remain sharp and well as my archery. My talents and skills as a ranger will aid The Prince more if I do not split my focus.
*Shuts the book and places it back into the pack, grabs some catfish for a snack, on goes on about his business watching nature*
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*Takes the journal from his pack. He finds a comfortable overlook of the forest below.*
This is too big. Fisterion and Pyrtechon are too far beyond my companions and I. The god’s will not unite, I am sure of it. That is not the way to go. I will elicit help from the wisest that I can find.
*Closes the journal and puts away in the pack. He sets and looks across the forest as he knows that the Green Ranger is about. Rod thinks that the draftsman of the temple will be the one to help. He then leans against a tree and douses off with the breeze across his face.*
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*Takes the journal from his pack. He sets next to the brook listening to the water trickling over the rocks*
I have spoken to Enzo Reynolt, the Green Ranger. He is now aware of the dangers facing the Longstrider.
I have also spoken to the King of Dregar. Thordan Ironheart was definitely a blessing, as we just happened to meet. His insight and relations with the king were most beneficial to find a resolution to all of this.
Also, the Druid of Mistone would be the next one to seek aid and advice from. I have dispatched, to Enzo and Rhizome, white doves, a symbol of the peace to come from their aid, to set up a necessary meeting with them. Folian is lucky to have such devoted followers.
*Closes the journal and puts it away in the pack. He stretches out on the soft grass next to the brook and falls asleep to the sounds of the water.*
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*With his fishing line in the water, he takes the journal from his pack. He sets on the bank of the lake waiting for the next catch.*
The Vahkar is an active guild. We have a sound set of goals and the need is just.
The temple of the Prince of Wolves is too valuable of a commodity for people not to be able to visit. The guild has decided to negotiate with the Satyrs, that guard the entrance to the temple, so visitors will be able to pass and worship without worries.
The Great Library proved to be vital to learn about the fauns. They are fond of their ale, food, women and playing pranks. This will be an interesting adventure.
With pies, ales, and music we confronted the Satyrs. We spoke with the leader to negotiate some type of deal for his people to let the followers of Folian to pass with little challenge to be able to worship. He is open for suggestions, but first, he must gain trust in us.
*Closes the journal and puts it away in the pack just in time for the line to go taut. As the fish is landed, a quick thanks to Folian breaks through his lips.*
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*As he is headed for the temple of the Prince of Wolves, Rodlin digs the journal from his pack and writes a quick note*
The two state of affairs that I am involved with are some how merging. One situation is starting to influence the other. The deal with the satyrs and the time at the temple along with the ‘hit’ made from Fisterion (not to mention the spy) has caused some strife with the healer; rightly so.
Is the healer who we think he is?
I am going to check into this. I have to employ my skills to aid Folian and try to return to a fraction of what he given me.
Enzo is concerned about the temple and is afraid the maybe it is a mistake, mainly because of situations not in his control. It is not a mistake! It is being targeted because it is ‘right.’ I am also to aid Enzo in whatever he needs.
*Before ducking into the shadows to get around the giants, he quickly returns the journal to his pack*
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*As he sits at the campfire east of Vale, he pulls out the journal that he has been trying to maintain*
*laughs* You are the most neglected item in my pack. *then starts to write*
Eliniawith has returned to his rightful place at the temple. However, there have been some conflicts. Brisbane and Enzo has been at each others throats ever since the spying ranger was flushed from her hiding spot. Brisbane believes the spy and Enzo believes Eliniawith. I sort of believe them both and stepping back and looking at the huge scheme of things, neither of their stories is complete. But looking at the outside factors, they may be working for each other for good and to the benefit of all. Therefore, their stories will mesh when put together.
The Vahkar did it! I can’t believe we pulled it off. Even though the Fauns would not trust us or want to work together, we persevered, excelled, and accomplished our mission. There is now easier access to the temple and we do not have to mess with the pranky, pie eating, ale drinking, non-trusting, singing fauns. And their legs look funny too. *smiles at himself because they no longer matter to him* We are very fortunate that Enzo joined us on this endeavor. His participation and insight was invaluable and we probably won’t have been able to pull it off without him.
This is our first success as a new guild. We have some great things planned and I can only hope that these result in successes as well.
*As he puts the journal away a final smile crosses his face feeling good about the accomplishments of the Vahkar and how we worked as a team and succeeded as a team*
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*He staggers to a soft spot in the grass to land*
*Memories and horrors rushing through his head he pulls the journal from his pack to put them into writing before they are either forgotten or diminished to a point to where they are seem trivial*
*In a shaking hand he write:*
Bad! The deaths were quick and the track was long. A group of us went to the Mosscrypts for some answers. *Shakes his head subtly* We were not fully prepared for what we encountered. Even Thordan and Enzo lay dead. Next to them was Kavil and Esimon. Dorax and I fell a short time before that but was return to the world of the living. *Squints his eyes from the headache caused by the memories* It is hard to write what I truly experienced. It was just simply terrible.
Yashilla continued down into the crypts. She is not the one that I would put any trust in. I have seen her kill an innocent girl a long time ago. I was not here long and was still learning when some people were trying to get the dragons united. There was this girl names Carocsa. I am not certain of her role, but she was very important for Shindaleria. Yashilla, being a follower of Mist, killed her. Right in front of me. I couldn’t believe that she did it. That image will never escape me. As we left that cave and walked the trail along the water and through the water, it dawned on me what had happened. Shindaleria was weakened and Mist was strengthened. The sea elves started leaving the waters unable to return. *then remembers the shark lord and just shakes his head again*
*Getting back to his previous point*
Yashilla told me to stay back. So I did, for a while. She was gone for a stint of time and I thought that she may need some aid. So I went after her. I found her! She was kneeling speaking with someone or something. As she stood and walked towards me, she said we all owed her for our lives. On our way up, we grabbed the bodies of the others to take them out with us. There was no way we could leave them down in that horrid place, especially the honored, Master Thordan. *rubs his lower back and shoulders that were aching from the stress of hauling him out* We stood on some stairs as Yashilla attempted us to pledge or agree to be indebted to her ‘deity’. I couldn’t believe this was happening. Not again! There was absolutely no way I was going too. I would have rather died. I walked past Yashilla and went through the door. We were met with death again. This time, I woke from unconsciousness. I met up with…*fails to recall her name maybe Jilseponie *…and we went back down the stairs. That is when I realized that when the whole party came into the crypt, there were no stairs. So we made our way to the entrance to the crypts and headed out. Everyone was dead except for the two of us. Ha…no vows to another diety.
*As he gathers some strength, he tucks his journal away and crawls over to a tree, props himself against it and falls into a deep, rehabilitating sleep*
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*Rodlin, as he sets in the forest on a bed of moss, he pulls from his pack, his journal*
*He vividly recalls the moments leading up to, during, and after Yar’s death and tries to put them into words*
As we cross through Deadman’s Pass after a good run on gold and minerals, Yar was having difficulty getting through the pass. I yell down to Yar, “You coming?” “Stop fooling around and get up here.”
Kavil climbed back down to see if he could assist Yar. As Kavil and Yar appeared at the summit, I asked Kavil, “You give him a boost?” Kavil grinned and replied, “Of course.”
We approached the area where the bugbears like to stay and I reminded the small group of the bugbears and we rested.
We started to plan our attack. Timothy started by saying that we should start left and work our way up the hill. I jokingly asked, “One or two at a time or rush them?” Kavil responded, “Eh...one or two is better, I think.” Timothy agreed with Kavil. Yar, being the paladin, requested, “One or two, please.” Still in the high spirits and having the feeling that everything is under control, Kavil said, “Have to keep the paladin alive.” I agreed and slightly chuckled. And naturally, Yar liked the plan of keeping the paladin alive Timothy asked everyone in the group if we were ready. After all acknowledgements were in, we started the battle.
The first battle at the bottom of the hill was mostly uneventful. All went well and our group took little damage. We started up the hill…
*Recalls what happened*
Yar and I were up front with Timothy and Kavil close behind.
*Starts having some flashbacks. The writing stops for a moment and a sense of fear washes over him again. The feeling of despair and agony floods his soul anew. Then he starts to write again in a shaking hand. *
For some reason, that we have not yet determined, the entire group of bugbears started charging. They headed straight for Yar. Yar was in a fierce battle, but was holding his own for only a few moments. There were too many and their attacks too numerous. Through the axes flying and the sounds of the battle, I noticed Yar was severely damaged. He was bleeding profusely and was starting to tire. Finally, he fell.
*Loses a little more control of himself at the image of seeing Yar fall. He starts to shake more. *
I tried to get to him before his unconsciousness slipped to death. There were too many bugbears blocking me from him. They wanted me not to succeed in healing him. The strikes to me were no longer felt as I was struggling to get to Yar.
All went dark.
However, I started slipping in and out of consciousness.
I looked over to where Yar was lying. Not more than a couple of meters from me.
All was quiet, the breeze was slight. The battle was over.
My vision was blurry and filled with blood. I could not tell where my other companions were.
My breathing was shallow and labored.
I happened to see the ‘Harvester of Souls’ reach down and touch the chest of Yar, then bow slightly towards the Soul Mother.
Over the silence I heard the ‘Harvester of Souls’ say to the Soul Mother, “Here is a soul that is weak and no longer of this plane, may he serve you well.”
I could see the Soul Mother’s face as she slightly smiled. She bent forward and removed the soul from his chest.
My bleeding stopped and I gathered myself to make my way to the remnants of Yar. It was not Yar. It was only the vessel that carried Yar’s soul. He left with the Soul Mother. I pushed myself up into a kneeling position and prayed over his body. I saw Timothy doing the same.
Timothy warned, “We better keep our prayers short. The bugbears will want to send us with him.” Kavil sighed, nodded.
I heard the words but could not move. I felt frozen. Kavil yelled back to me.
I stood and gave my friend a final, simple farewell, “Goodbye, friend.” I have never called anyone, “friend,” other than the one that left me when I was so young. The one that I was with everyday during my childhood. The one that left me by dying, as well.
Then I could hear Yar speak. I did not hear it with my ears, it was heard with my soul.
“Safe - They are safe. Now I can go. I'm so tired.”
I left the area to catch up with my companions.
Astonishment and shock just rippled through my body. I noticed Kavil was leaning back against the cliff, staring up into the rain, unseeing. Timothy suggested that we go to the temple of Toran, that we report the news to his brothers.
We started to reminisce about meeting Yar for the first time. He had many seasons on him when we first arrived here. He was our mentor. He was our ‘Hero.’ He will be missed.
*He closes the book*
*He weeps*
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*It has been a couple of days as Rodlin passes the area where Yar left this world*
*He stops, picks a daisy from the area, places the flower in his journal, wipes a tear from the page, and trudges on*
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*rips the page out*
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*rips the page out*
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*Thanks about home as he walks along a ridge*
I wonder how grandfather is doing. He is the one that I miss the most. He is the only person that I would care to go back and see.
Grandfather filled many positions in my life, as a mentor in the arts of archery and woodworking, as a father figure, as a person that I could confide in, someone that was truly proud of my accomplishments. Someday, I shall return to Voltrex and visit him. For him to see me now and for him to see what he created would…he would be so proud. I owe him so much that I cannot even imagine.
Well, maybe two other family members have had some interest in me. This I did not know. Bo’s parents, my aunt and uncle, may have more concern for me then I realize. I may have to see into this from a distance.
-
*as he walks along the edge of the forest, he stops briefly and opens his journal to take a few notes just to get some thoughts out*
Dorax and I finally went to blows. He hits like a freakin’ mountain falling on you. It is hard to fight when my backside is holding the grass down. I guess I finally said too much. Either that or he really DOESN’T like smelling like a cow. Truth hurts sometimes. But there are no hard feelings. We will continue to adventure and aid one another.
*chuckles about the episode and rubs his chin*
I am really getting tired of not being able to return home. I honestly miss home. When I left I thought that I wouldn’t miss it and that I had nothing to return to. I have learned that I actually miss my mother. And I definitely miss grandfather. I miss the times that grandfather and I spent in his shop shaping and sanding wood. I miss the smells of the shop. I miss the way grandfather smiles when I did a good job. I even miss his chuckles when the bowstring did not quite make it over the end of the bow and the stave snapped back causing me to lose control of it. I miss our talks that we shared in the shop when no one was around. The stories he told and the advice he gave me.
*he shakes his head and stows the book back in his pack*
-
*stops by a lake and throws a fishing line in the water and sits against a tree*
The group is doing well. We have traveled many different areas and have found some interesting things. We have accomplished much and we all continue to grow and learn. Since Yar’s death, Riley has filled his spot. I didn’t think that was possible. If I didn’t know better, I would say that they were brothers. Riley is a very sharp paladin and has a good head for tactics. He is still a bit out of control and needs to learn how to control his blade better and stop knocking me down with it. Poor lad is too strong for his own good. But in time, he will master his sword and will be a powerful weapon.
*laughs to himself*
And then there is Addison. What can I say about her? She is a feisty girl that giggles a lot. I really don’t know much about her or know where she came from. She just showed up one day on the doorstep and we took a liking to her. There is nothing that she won’t face. I am not sure if it is ignorance or bravery. I think she and Riley will be the next to join the guild’s ranks.
*his mood turns solemn as his thoughts turn to home and his grandfather, he just closes the journal and stares at the water for a while*
-
*as he prepares to bed down for the night, he breaks out his journal*
I have to write this down in case my mind starts to fell me in my older years. I realize my written thoughts will not get close to the actually experience, but hopefully these words will spark the memories.
I accompanied the High Druid, Rhizome, to the Great Oak! My senses were overwhelmed at the sight, the smell, and the sounds of the area that the Great Oak resides. I cannot describe it in words.
Once there, Rhizome received the Silver Veign Plant from the Hierophant. To imagine the power of this plant and the honor of receiving such a token is staggering. Rhizome received the plant, planted it in the superlative location, and then comforted the Hierophant as she left this world.
The ceremony was a very poignant event and fortifies my faith in the Prince of Wolves. I feel that this event have breathed new life into me.
*closes his journal and doses off quickly with a true feeling of serenity*
-
*he flips open his journey as if it has become a nuisance*
There is a reason for my last entry being so long ago. My patience has grown thin and my tolerance for the other races has grown even thinner. I am starting to regret leaving Voltrex. I have made some strong relationships, which only a handful has become what I would call a ‘friend’.
When I was summons to leave Voltrex I was very young. I am still very young in comparison, but the things that I have experienced over the last 12 years have made me grow. I have had dealings with people and monster alike. These dealings, which I would have never dream of, have made me view the world differently. These dealings have changed my attitude towards the other races.
I am less compassionate now than I ever was. At times, I think I couldn’t care less if certain people fell during battle as long as I made it out. This seems sort of evil, but it is a state of mind that I grew into to protect myself from me. I fell a lot, many times more than others. The reason is because of the compassion that I had. I had! Regrettably, my compassion has faded and my heart grows cold. This is something that I am not proud of. This is something that grandfather would not be proud of. However, it has happened.
The manners and politeness that I once had has now faded. I am more withdrawn then ever in my life. The other races that I live around have changed my feelings. I now understand why my ancestors went to Voltrex and why access is so tightly controlled.
I am still fighting the battles that pop up everywhere. I still donate time, energy, coins, equipment and blood to the war against Sinthar Bloodstone. I still aid people in need, not because of compassion, but for my desire to do the right thing. I still seek the time when I can return home and shake my grandfather’s hand. The level of maturity that I have reached from the last 12 long years is so much higher than my peers on Voltrex. They are so naive and in experienced. I feel that, even though I am young, I have transitioned into the early stages of adulthood.
*closes the journal abruptly and tosses it back into his pack*
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*rips the page out*
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*rips the page out*
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*As he approaches his house, he can’t help but to glance over to the hill to see if there is any visitors. After many miles of roaming and thinking about what he has heard and the things that have happened in her life, he starts to come to ease with it. He enters his house and heads straight for his desk.*
Hopefully as I write, more thoughts will be settled.
Well, will I stay around and continue to see her or should I cut ties? That is the answer that I need to come up with. However, I can’t really convince myself either way. It really has to be answered by her. And in a way, she has already provided some answers. Perhaps not all in words, but in actions. Words are plentiful and cheap. Any word can be spoken at nearly any time. People can say one thing but do another. Actions are more trusting. The actions are what count.
As hard as it is to say certain things to certain people, ‘honesty’ is the best policy. Honesty in words and actions. She was honest with me, although it obviously pained her greatly. That is admirable! That is also a strong indicator of how she feels about me. *chuckles* Which is also admirable.
She is a mother! Of triplets!! *sits at his desk for a long time after he write the words*
*finally starts to write again*
She told me who the father is. I know little of him but what I do know, it is not bad. I can think of worse. The father is a drow and how all that evolved is surprising within itself. But that is not for me to concern myself with. There is a certain amount of comfort in knowing who the father is. I have nothing against this drow, he has giving me no reason to doubt his ability as a father and a supporter. Anything other than that is beyond my need to know.
She told me that they are no longer together. That is a bit sad. It reminds me of my childhood. My mother and father separated when I was young. But, hey, I turned out ok. *lets out a half hearted chuckle* The children are with him now. I do not necessarily agree with that. I think all children should be with their mother unless the mother is unfit. From what I have seen, this appears not to be the case.
Her drinking on the other hand, to me, I see no sense in it. When someone drinks to get over a problem, the problem is usually still there once the ale is not. More times than not, other problems are generated. I did find her after a long drinking episode. And she was out of her mind. Not a good state to be in. I can see how a person can be taken advantage of. It is sad that people take advantage of other people when they are down, not in their right mind, or in need.
I would like to see the kids. I do not want to infringe on the father, though. I am sure that he is in enough pain right now so I will keep my distance and make no such requests. I can only imagine what he is going through.
*sighs and thinks about what he has wrote*
I am attracted at the same time as repelled. Strange. Personally, I am not ready for this to end. I really like being with her. We all have a past. We have all made mistakes. How can I hold that against her? I can’t. That is not fair. No one can see the future and determine what an action today will affect tomorrow. We can guess and plan, but we still do not ‘know*.
I think it is time to go find her again.
*gives the journal a little twist and he tosses it onto the desk*
-
*Walks into his house and into his room. Picks up his journal and plops down in front of the fireplace. Images of her sitting there flashes through his thoughts.*
Every where I look, every where I go, I look for her. She is always in my thoughts and I feel lonely when we are apart. A tracker actually feeling lonely. *shake his head a few quick times* My solitude was my sanctuary. Now, solitude is no longer desired. She has become my sanctuary.
The father of her children caught up to me. I knew he eventually would. It is one sign of my thoughts distracting me. I could tell he was not pleased with me when he made his intentions known. He wanted to kick my tail. *nods slowly as he recalls the tone that was in the drow’s voice* He accused me of being the reason why she left him. In order to help him deal with himself and allow him to vent his frustrations, his hurt, and his anger, I permitted him the opportunity to be his relief. And wow...he vented! The anger and hurt that he had built up came out. And so did my lights She was there off and on and was trying to prevent it from happening. But nothing would have been learned and nothing would have been resolved if it did not occur.
Once I came to, several minutes later, we talked it through. Had some eats, had some laughs, had some juices, had a bit of bonding as well. And for the sake of those present, I won’t mention the group hug afterwards.
Although I was there to help and possibly share some of the wisdom that I was taught and learned along the way, I was taught a few more things. Nyyana, whom I have only met once, maybe twice, was impressive. She spoke with good sense and sound logics. She would truly be an interesting person to get to know and talk to.
To a brother ranger and follower of the Longstrider, I am available for counsel. Rather it be a punching bag, which I would rather you use goblins, or to roam with; just say the word. It will get back to me.
*transfers some quotes into his journal*
Nyyana: "W..when you're losing a battle, you retreat, you reform, and you c..come back with reinforcements, and you face the enemy again." -- Seems simple enough until you are in the thick of things and lose focus of the big picture.
Ash Willo: "Putting out a candle when you're afraid of the dark doesn't help."
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*rips the page out*
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*sits at the base of an Ash tree trying to get his thoughts together*
A case of limerence has me turning every possible way a person can be turned. I have experienced feelings that I have not felt before. Some are good and even great while others are not. It seems for every good feeling, there is a counter feeling. I live in two different states of being. One state of joy, calmness, awe, comfort, euphoria, glee, happiness, peace, and pride. And then, the one of envy, jealousy, nervousness, pain, rage, worry, uneasiness, and confusion.
I would think that the positive feelings would override the negative, but it is not so. She is so friendly and outgoing. And like all the others, the feelings that she has for me will eventually subside and she will grow bored of me. I feel like the trophy stag. Time, patience, endurance, and skill to get close enough to take it. As many times as the hunter gets close, is the number of times the wise stag runs just as the shot is to be taken. Determination grows. The wanting of the win. The excitement of the hunt. The thrill of the stalking. The battle of instincts between the hunter and the hunted. The emotions that are shared between the two. Then one day, the hunter gets hits his target. All the feelings rush away. An emptiness arises. The next trophy must now be hunted.
Being so wrapped up in all the emotions have caused me to lose focus on what really matters. Folian.
*He moves around a bit under the trees to be able to get a clear look at the skies to the east through the leaves and branches. Though the skies are overcast and darkened, there appears to be a clearing that lasts for only a few moments that reveals Rhazzka.*
*he gets to his knees and prays as the revelation is revealed*
I understand. I see your guidance and reminder.*pauses and slumps as if a huge weight was placed on his shoulders* It was not the answer I was wanting, but I realize that it is the answer I must follow. Longstrider, guide my steps. Help me defend and serve the wood and those within.
*hangs his head as he gets back to the cover of the Ash tree*
*mumbles to himself as if a final plea* I don't want to give her up.
-
*as he tacks up the notice in the Crimson Shield Guild hall, his thoughts roam*
The guild has done many great things. From donating 10's of thousands of pounds of weapons, armor and other good to the Mistone Alliance, not to mention the 100's of thousands of coins donated, to selling goods to adventurers and aiding them in their odd jobs around Layonara. The guild has taken an enormous role in every major event.
I am quiet close to the other members and a few, I even call *hesitates as the word is not easily used*
‘friend’. Though I will no longer be a member of the guild, I will not leave the companionship here. I will continue to adventure with them; if they so desire. Truthfully, the guild lacks leadership and direction 90% of the time. Only when these special situations come around do we pull together as a guild.
I do not desire to be with a guild where the leader just up and leaves. Just deserts his responsibilities. To me, he is abandoning his post. That goes against everything that I am about. I over looked it once. Once! I am not going to again. What was worse was the welcome that he received when he returned. *just shakes his head as he recalls certain people’s reactions as he watched them vote ‘the leader’ back* I just sat there is awe.
Anyway, this is the end of my membership with the Crimson Shield.
About the Vakhar...*his mind runs straight into the next topic*...I really enjoy being in the Vakhar. It is made up of people with my own principles, skills, views, and goals. The guild has always done very well in keeping their goals in mind and is usually very active. I have to give credit to Aralin for running the guild. Not bad for a non-ranger. I have had my disagreements with some of the policies, but the guild as a whole decides. And so far, I feel that the decisions that the guild has made have been the correct ones. I am certain that there will be more. I will voice my opinion the best that I can and will allow the guild to determine the best course of action. At this point, I will back any decision that the guild makes. They have given me no reason not to trust them.
During the last outing with the guild, we have made some dealings with the Wolfswood Ranger Corp. I have heard town criers mention the Corp and how the Corp seeks qualified rangers. At this point, this is a very attractive option. I shall pass word to Colonel Enzo, Commander of the Wood, and notify him of my desires in joining the Corp.
Folian has a drastic way of putting wondering followers back on the right path.
-
*crawls into an overhang in the cliff to wait out a storm in the forest*
I took Wren to Folian’s Temple via the hidden path. It was is first time to visit the temple. It was an honor and privilege to take Wren to where Glenn was taken when he died. As we were getting ready to climb the vines to the cliff tops, Ash appeared behind us. So many emotions swarmed me, I did not know how to act.
Once at the tops of the cliffs, we discussed the situation in Karthy. The slavery market appears to be open and allowed by the authorities.
As we started along the ridge of the cliff, Ash gave Wren a hug. Totally innocent. I know it was. It is just how Ash is. I cannot believe the feelings that I had at that point. The same ones that I had when I saw her speaking with other men. I know she has been with other men. She has children with Nepp. So why does it bother me so? Maturity level? Age? Am I just so possessive? Things I have not learned about my self. Perhaps this is why the Prince of Wolves is guiding me to the Corps. To age me, to mature me.
As we were about to leave the cliff tops, I told them about me leaving the Crimson Shield and attempting to join the Wolfswood Ranger Corps. They were a bit surprised. I spoke of the leadership problems in the guild and the refocusing of my thoughts in the ways of a tracker and protector of the forests and nature. I do my duties already, but this would be much more intense. Long periods away.
Wren took the fast way done. I found out later, he is fine. No broken bones. Ash and I continued on the Vakhar’s guild hall to use the portal. As we entered the meeting room, I turned to her. I have been fighting this moment for days; trying to come up with the words to say to her. I had to use the right words to convince her, and myself, that our relationship as we know it, has to end. Folian has revealed the path that I must take. I do not question it. I do not necessarily like it, matter of fact, I feel hurt that Folian has made such a request. I feel like he is punishing me for some reason. To give up someone that I was so close to. Ash was obviously hurt. And I did it to her. I have never felt pain like that before. My heart almost ceased as it broke. Ash said that I cannot have a broken heart if I was not in love. If she only knew. Then she left.
*takes a deep breath and looks out from the overhang watching the rain cascade over the edge*
*slowly lets the breath out fighting back the sadness that moment brought*
A few days later, Nepp and I were in Hlint next to the pond. We were messing with Lillian as she was talking living for the moment. She wanted to do things just for her. She spoke of riches and popularity. How other people and creatures had what was rightfully hers. I thought she had gone mad. Then she revealed her source of this line of thought. A person named, Daralith. A male drow that is a follower of Baraeon Ca’Duz. What I know about Ca’Duz is that his domains are death, evil and trickery. His alias is the Prince of Hate. Plus, the other things that Nepp spoke of. I do not think that Lillian knows what she is getting into. I hope that she does not get involved with this Daralith guy and start following the Ca’Duz ways.
Ash came upon us because she had heard that Nepp was dead. Once she learned that he was a live and well, she left again. She did say that she missed her children. This, I was glad to hear.
Lillian made some comments that were a bit out of line. Something like, “It couldn't be more obvious that you have feelings for her. Yet, you make some lame excuse about needing to focus on the corps. What a load of ....” I just waved her off and started talking about her being such a “charmer”. I learned a lot more than I expected after that. I invited her to the inn for a drink. As we talked, she told me of her boyfriend, Lyle. I did not know she even had a boyfriend. She told me about her time on slavery and about the product of a decision she had made. She spoke of an ultimatum that she gave Lyle. I was surprised that Lilly had this side to her. We have never really sat down and talked like we did that night. We talked of other things, as well. I got to know Lillian as a person and not just a sword swinger. I admittedly have a new found respect for her.
*as he gets done writing, he notices the storm has passed*
*he stows his journal and heads back out to determine if any major damage had been done to the forest from all the rain*
-
*As the meeting is adjorned, he enters the nearest patch of forest for rest*
I was killing time out by the pond outside the house in Fort Hope waiting to go to Dregar for the Vakhar meeting at the guildhall. Aralin, whom happens to be one of my neighbors since we bought the house so many years ago, sends word that the meeting will be at his house. As I enter his house, I ran right into Luna. *takes a deep breathe* I was stunned. I could not move. I cannot remember what I said, it was probably unintelligible whatever it was. There were other things said as well, but frankly, I cannot remember what they were either. She took my hand and led me outside where we decided to conduct the meeting. As we were getting situated, she invited me to sit next to her. My head was still swimming, but accepted her invitation.
*leaves the details of the discussion of the meeting out*
Even though we have not seen one another for the longest time, there is still something there. I just don’t know what. I think that she is.... *trails off*
*tucks the journal away and roams the forest aimlessly lost in thought*
-
*he enters Folian’s temple and drops to his knees in front of the altar*
I have fulfilled my obligation of becoming a member of the Wolfswood Ranger Corps. Use me as you will for the service of the forest and the creatures within.
*recounts what has transpired*
I went to speak to the commander of the Wolfwood Ranger Corps to discussing joining their ranks. As I approached the gates, I was met by Enzo. During the small talk, he told me how two of his rangers were killed and the bodies left at the Grove of Illusions. Apparently, they were on a normal patrol and were overtaken and mauled. The marks on there bodies were caused by various animals. Why would animals be attacking rangers? How was these rangers unable to protect themselves?
We continued discussing the matter when he informed me that there was an elite, by the name of Daniel Stevens, that was dispatched to gather information about the incident. He mentioned that Daniel was past due on reporting in by four days. My first thoughts were that Daniel had to go into hiding and was waiting for an opportune time to return. I offered to good look for Daniel and find out what was going on. If Daniel needed help, then I would assist him in what ever way I could. I figured that I didn’t have much to lose at this point and it would prevent the Corps from losing more rangers to whatever was causing this mysterious activity. Also, it would no affect the morale of the Corps if I failed.
Enzo had to think it over for a few moments and then accepted my offer. However, there was a catch. The catch was that he was going with me. I thought better of it. I didn’t need anyone slowing me down. *chuckles to himself* Actually, he having a new son and being in charge of the Corps, it was too much of a risk that I was uncomfortable to take. It was an additional burden and I did not want to be the one responsible for his son growing up not knowing his father. However, I finally accepted and as we started to move out, one of the other rangers came up to us and informed us that the nymph had another body. The description was that of Daniel. One of the most skillful of trackers was killed by whatever was out there.
We exchanged looks and took a moment to collect ourselves. Then we set out.
As we enter an area that held a giant encampment we notice some abnormal animals and strange acting giants. The abnormal animals were bigger, stronger, and more alert. They were even attacking giants. The giants were walking around watching the ground. They were bothered by what they had encountered. The legs of these giants were all chewed up and scratched. We continued into the grove.
When we entered the Grove of Illusions, the body of Daniel was lying in front of the nymph. We started out hiding, gathering intelligence of what was about. After a bit of information gathering, we decided to speak to the nymph. As I approached the nymph, I stopped at Daniel’s body to examine it. I asked if we could get the body. She asked, “His or hers?” if she had only known what I was going through, she wouldn’t have even wasted her time with that question. The nymph and I had a discussion while I was examining the body. I noticed that the swords and bow were still stowed. They were not even drawn. And elite ranger not having time to arm himself from an attack is more than rare. It is almost unheard of. Something(s) had to get to him quick and kill before the natural response of the ranger kicked in. As I continued to talk to the nymph, I looked for the direction from which the body came. The body was mutilated pretty badly so a blood trail would lead us to where the attack occurred. During the discussion, the nymph asked if we wanted to speak to the ranger’s animal companion. Knowing the relationship that Baloo and I have, I thought this would be the perfect way to find out almost every detail. As the dire tiger approached, it did not seem friendly. Rightfully so, HIS companion was killed. We didn’t get a lot from the tiger. Some threats and growls, but nothing more. It went over and clawed at Daniel’s body one last time and moved off. The nymph was enjoying the entertainment.
We left her by climbing a small ridge following the blood trail. The trail ended at a common rest area. This was the obvious sight of the attack. The bears across the crevice were huge. The biggest looked like it could jump over. It even acted like it wanted to. I knew we had to get around these bears to get to Raven’s house. I spotted some potent smelling leaves that would conceal our scent while we hide from the bears. As we went to the broken bridge to jump across, the bears met us there. They roamed back and forth as if they knew we were heading over at that spot. We managed o get over and hidden before it spotted us on it’s side of the ravine. Once over, we headed to Raven’s.
The area surrounding Raven’s house was covered with little black mushrooms. I tried to pull one up to get a closer look at it. It did not come up. I tried to cut a piece of it. It took a lot of effort to get a small piece. I placed apiece in a bag; Enzo sealed a piece in a jar. These mushrooms were no ordinary mushrooms. The prey animals in this area were eating these mushrooms, which made them act as if enhanced. The predatory animals that fed on these were very well enhanced, in mind and body.
As we approached Raven’s, we noticed in the Northeast corner of the woods, some animals. Enzo watched these animals for a bit while I moved ahead to the house. He said that the animals acted like they were guarding something. We would return once we spoke with Raven.
We entered Raven’s house to find her weak. She told us that something was making her weak and drained. I was going to show her the piece of mushroom when Enzo stopped me. He thought that it was not a good idea in her current state. I recommended the piece in the jar. It did not matter. The piece in the jar still affected her.
We decided to go back and find out what these animals were protecting. We snuck up to the animals and watched their behavior. They had set up a scout, a patrol and perimeter. Heh, smart animals. We were able to get close enough to see hat they were guarding an altar. The altar was of stone and gave off an aura that seemed to be the opposite of what Folian stood for. The altar had to be destroyed. But how? As she kneeled there watching the animals and looking at this altar we tried to come up with a means to destroy it. What powers would destroy the “unnatural”? Something that was pure and was a symbol of life. The mighty oak tree is a symbol of life and strength. The fruit of this mighty tree would surely be the means to destroy this altar. Now to get an acorn.
Back at Raven’s, we told her everything that we have seen. She said that a blessed acorn would be the key. The water in the pond near her house was blessed. She was the high druid of the forest at one point; so of course the water was blessed. Now all we needed was someone to perform the ritual. Enzo had studied some in the ways of the priests. He would perform the blessing. He took the acorn and we left Raven’s once again. We went to the pond. We knelt to bless the acorn. Enzo said a prayer, blessed the acorn, and held it in the water. As he withdrew it, it was vibrant, green and gold.
Also, at the same time, a female druid stepped from the trees. She advised us to remove the blessed acorn from the forest at once. She spoke of a bigger better nature that would survive the darkness that has been brought upon us. She also spoke of it being the Dark Father’s wish and that we should allow it to happen. We decided that we have talked enough and it was time to destroy the altar. She was not in favor of our actions and attacked. It was a long battle. She was not an easy person to hit. I engaged with my swords at first, but I underestimated her fighting skills. Badly woundly, I withdrew and went to the bow. As I drew back, Enzo engaged with is sword and together, she fell.
Enzo searched the body and found a symbol in her hand that confirmed that she was on our side. We turned to head to the altar. Enzo and I managed to calm the leaders and eliminate some of the more persistent animals. We got to the altar, finally. Enzo placed the blessed acorn in the center of the altar. As the acorn touched the stone, the stone gave way. It crumbled into tiny bits, the torches went dark. Shortly after the destruction of the altar, the mushrooms started wilting. The cries of freedom of the animals and of the forest were such a relief. But one cry stood out. The cry of a last stand. The last resort. It was a howl of anger and revenge.
Our first thought was Raven’s safety. We dashed back to the house to check on her. As I burst into the door, she was standing there as if nothing happened. Then Enzo called out. I left the house to see a huge Worg type animal approaching. After a couple of unsuccessful animal holds and a couple of failed attempts to dominate it, it attacked. As the animal fell, the forest cheered. It was all over. Everything was returning to normal almost immediately.
We checked on Raven for the last time, informed her that things were returning to normal and said our farewells. We headed back to the headquarters.
Once there, Enzo asked if I still wanted to be in the Corps. It is the Prince of Wolve’s will for me to join, so the choice was not really mine. I told Enzo that this was the path that I must take and he accepted. He presented me a Wolfswood Ranger Corps sword, bow and the banner. He gave me the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and told me that my orders would be soon to follow. I was truly proud to be in the Corps and was even more honored to have Enzo accompany me on such an important mission. I have a lot to teach him. *chuckles*
*shakes his head as he passes one of the rangers in a green uniform knowing that will become one of his articles of clothing*
-
*sits under a weeping willow tree thinking about all the things that have happened since his last journal entry*
I have decided to take on an apprentice. She is a young ranger by the name of Emie Meadows. The first time I met her, she was speaking to the nameless druid when I happened to walk by. She was very short with me during the introductions. I thought I had offended her just by being in her presence. So I left her and the nameless alone to finish their discussion.
Almost a half a day later, I met up with Emie again. I kept may distance and offered a bag of miscellaneous items as a peace offering. Once again, I left her to her work. It took several meetings to gain her trust and to realize that it was not just me, but men in general; something to do with her upbringing.
I slowly started offering up a little training here and there during our meetings. She is attentive and learns quickly. She has the natural talent that so many rangers lack. We have covered many topics such as animal control, animal handling, stealthy movement and hiding, bow-to-sword transitions and back, and a bit on setting and disarming traps (mostly for the ones that poachers leave). We still have to determine how good she is at tracking.
We took a long trip from South Dregar to North Dregar. During which, we practiced non-verbal communication while hiding. While we were in the mountains, the bugbears were willing enough to let us practice our stealth on them. It was a terrific success. We managed to maneuver all around them without detection. There is one fault that she will have to correct. When the enemy draws near, she tends to want to leave instead of holding still. The risk of making a noise is too great.
While training her, I have recognized a few weak areas in myself that I could improve on. One is that I have concentrated on me hiding and have failed to be able to detect what is hiding. Another is my ability to disarm traps. I have come across traps in the wilderness left by poachers and unsportsmanlike hunters that I could not disarm. These areas I should focus on to improve myself as a tracker and master of the forest. While doing so, I shall pass on to Emie as much knowledge as I can.
*shifts around as he starts to get uncomfortable but just writes it down*
Ash is gone. The soul mother has taken her. *stops writing for a moment…by writing about it, it turns it into reality* I feel she was heading down the wrong path. There were some bad influences in her life that was turning her into something less desirable. Since Glenn died, she had no one to hold her to her morals and values. She went from a quiet, sweet Ash to…not.
Then, Luna returns. I met her and the nameless one briefly today. I will have to say that I have changed…or have been changed is more like. What is it with these women having so many relationships? This leads me to believe that I would not be the last and after a while, they would just go to the next guy.
*closes his journal and leans his head back against the trunk of the tree and stares up through the branches*
-
*leans back against a weeping willow tree, stretches his legs out and crosses them at his feet*
My, my, how time changes things….
Most of my time is spent in the forest now on patrol. So much is happening in the wilderness that it requires so much attention. When I am not on patrol, I am either in the craft hall working all the material that I have collected or spending time with Emie.
The time I spend with her is still mostly for training, but it has developed a personal side. Not a lot, but our relationship has changed. My feelings for her have changed as well. Her personality is stunning and captivating. She brings out a side in me that reminds me of my early childhood. I find myself loosening up to the point of not caring about anything. She is truly like a sister that I never had.
I met a warden not to long ago, her philosophy and views were much like my own. She has definitely left an everlasting impression. However, I have found out recently that she is to be wed. From what she told me, she was looking for a man that would allow her to give their children her name in her House’s sake to rebuild it. Apparently, it wasn’t to hard find a guy that was willing to give up his heritage for her, if she is already going to be wed. And I thought she impressed me! *stops writing for a second for a good chuckle*
*thankful that he can still hold a quill to write*
Anyway, I continue to work with traps. In the craft hall and while on patrol. People abandon traps all over the place. But in the craft hall, it is a different story. Some that I have made just don’t work. Some are so touchy that I am thankful to have all my digits and even my life. They are powerful tools when used in the right manner. The intricate workings inside and the affect that they cause…simply intrigue me.
As I hide in my environment, I rely on my environment. It conceals me. What fascinates me are the ones that just fade away into the shadows while I am looking at them. Perhaps someday, I will learn the skill.
*slowly closes his journal and lays it on his lap as he leans his head back against the tree listening and watching the winds blow the drooping branches back and forth*
-
*as he lies in the underbrush waiting for his ‘targets’ to return, he quickly scribbles some notes into his journal*
Rangers are populating the adventurers quite well now. However, some have a lot to learn, much like I did when I first arrived. I feel it best if I can call them together to learn from each others experiences. This will hopefully reduce the learning curve and make more affective rangers more quickly.
I have had my eye on one ranger in particular. I do not know why I have an interest in her. Perhaps Folian has made our paths cross for a reason. I have started to teach her some of the other aspects of being a ranger. She learns quickly. Her potential is limitless. Reminds me of Emie when I started mentoring her. I have gifted her with a few items that will help her skills grow. The equipment just allows her to be able to put herself into a position that she can learn from and build confidence in herself.
Emie is great! She has grown into a fine ranger. Her skills surpass my own in some areas. She continues to impress me. She has truly made me proud. I have come to call and love her like a sister. She is like my own blood. She is incredible!
Dorena kept pushing me to go to this dang toga party. I set in Hlint with Ozy talking about how it reveals way to much skin and such. We were both were in agreement that there was no sense in going to such an event. I kept making excuses hoping she would just drop it. But nooooo, she even showed up with a toga. I tried to keep making excuses and she kept countering them. The next thing I knew I was in a freakin’ toga in the middle of Hlint. How did that happen? We went together to the Leilon Arms for the party. I felt so exposed. I hide at every chance I had. And then…low and behold, Aiek showed up. I hid behind a column, but she spotted me. At that point, a more crowded Arms would have been much appreciated. She came over to ‘talk’. I knew she just wanted to see me in the toga. After a bit of talking, she asked me to dance. I have never danced before in my life. As much time as she has dedicated to learning, I figured I would do as she wished. So I tried to dance. I can only imagine what it looked like. Valaria showed up as well. Of course I danced with her too. Once I was in this state of embarrassment, it couldn’t get any worse. I left the party after the end of the dance. The snow was very welcomed on my face as I stepped into the streets of Leilon.
As I was on the ship to Hurm, I chuckled to myself about the whole party thing and honestly felt that I was glad I went and I enjoyed the ‘dances’. However, I do not think it will happen again.
*as the ‘targets’ return, he quietly and slowly returns the journal to the pocket in the side of his pack and returns his attention to his duties*
-
*Finds a seat atop a cliff with a 360-degree view and digs in his pack to bring out his journal.*
Emie and I decided to travel to Hurm to try to assist with a slaver problem. We boarded a ship and set sail to look for one of the captains that had been captured. Of course, we were attached at sea, but made our way to the islands. Once on the island, we were confronted with a beholder and lizardmen. They really did not want us to proceed into the island, but ended up giving in. So we continued our tract inland.
We had some battles, ran into some slavers, but all was well. We dressed as the slavers and pirates that we had slain and traversed a small harbor to try to locate the captain. The party met up with a beholder that wanted us to gather some of the slain. To do what with, who knows? But, I did not go back into the boat to fish bodies from the water. I stayed on the banks.
*Does not recall too much except what the party had pieced together*
Apparently, the beholder started to talk over and put thoughts into head. I teamed up with the beholder against the party. The beholder told the party that if they wished to go any further into the island, they had to give me all of their weapons. I gathered the weapons and placed them on a ship. During this time is apparently when the party was captured and taken to a chamber. I ended up there, myself. We were stripped of everything. The only one missing was Avar. Emie and I tried to get the bounds off, but the chamber was flooded with some sort of gas.
*The memories are relatively clear now*
We all woke to in cages. The feel of the area that we were in was damp, dark and felt like we were deep in the ground. Avar released us from the cages and we started out tract out. As we traveled in the caverns, the water steadily raised. Avar provided some weapons and were able to get to an area in the cave where we could get out. By this time, the water was nearly over our heads.
The way out was via tunnel filled with water. It was a long swim. All in the party, but Emie, made it. As we broke the surface and climbed onto the banks, we heard Emie splash and then disappear under the water. A couple of us dove in after her. We managed to get her to the surface and then unto land to be revived. Fortunately, we were able to revive her.
There, on the banks, were some pirates and I believe Arkolio. Arkolio was sent there to retrieve us while Captain Kayid mounted an attack to re-capture the Trueflight, the ship that was capture with the captain that we were looking for. Arkolio said that time was limited and we had to go fast. Emie, Avar, Jake and I were in the process of going when Ireth, Aiden, and Annie stated that they wanted their equipment back and did not want to leave without the gear. There were some exchanges in words. My line of thinking was that the gear is easily replaced and we can return when we are equipped, rested and nourished. However, during the battle and confusion, Avar, Emie and Jake boarded the ship and the ship set sail. Ireth, Annie, Aiden and I were left behind. Later, we found out all of our gear was onboard the ship.
*hands start to shake as he writes*
As I watched the Trueflight sail from the harbor, I saw several slaver vessels across the harbor hastily preparing their ships to give chase. Numerous longboats had landed on the shore below our position and the slavers, lizardmen, duerger and a number of beholders were coming at us.
The next few weeks were a test; a test of my skill, endurance and mental prowess. We managed to evade the search parties as they scoured the countryside. Aiden left us on the third day seeking a way to find his equipment or to sneak onboard a ship and escape. However, he was spotted when his spells expired and picked up by a Beholder and lizardman search party.
Ireth was the next to succumb to the searchers. She was trying to climb a small cliff to access the tropical forest above when they the searchers caught up to her. Nets were fired from crossbows and Ireth is brought down in a tangle of arms and legs and carried off. Annie and I made it to the top of the cliff just as a search group, that contained a Beholder appeared.
Annie and I were chased through the jungle for several days, weak from hunger and exhaustion, we decided to split up to try and evade their pursuers. She was caught shortly afterwards.
I managed to evade the pursuers for another week before I brought down on a beach on the other far side of the island. I was thinking that if I could make it to another island, I could hunker down and wait it out. However, they managed to overtake me before I swam away.
I was brought before the Slavemaster Zithgarlock, apparently the head slaver. He did not seem too happy about me running from his people, but he did seem amused that I managed to escape the killing pits and to evade for so long. However, I started to get nervous when he had doubts to where I would fit in. His concern was whether I could be made into a pliable slave or whether I would become a liability to them at every opportunity. I was thinking the latter, I so was he. It was then that I was taken to a cell and several burly, ugly smelly slavers entered and pinned me down, face up, spread eagled on the floor. Zithgarlock moved to stand over me, his serpentine head on a massively muscled body looking down at me. He nodded and several of the Duergers entered the cell and quickly put on some heavy shackles to my arms, legs and neck. I watched as huge chains were linked through the shackles and attached to the walls of the cell. Then they pulled the chains lifting me into the air. The pain was excruciating. I could feel my muscles stretching; my skin was burning where the manacles cut into them. As the pain took its toil on me and before I blacked out; I heard them say, He is a hard one to catch. Do you want his legs broken to cripple him, Slavemaster? And then
The next few weeks was a living nightmare until one day a man came into my cell when I thought I was going to give into death. From what I can remember, which the amount I remember is amazing at this point; he was dressed in heavy white robes belted at the waist with a braided gold belt. His hair was a mass of dark ringlets, his dark skin evidence of a life spent living in the desert. Gold earrings adorned each ear and a number of rubies and emeralds set in gold adorned his fingers. Zithgarlock hovered at his shoulder as the man leaned over me. He smelled strongly of cinnamon and herbs, which was somewhat nauseating. After examining me and looking at me from head to toe, he turned to Zithgarlock and said in a firm voice with a soft accent. This one is near death. I feel no compulsion to do anything further with them. They are not suitable as a sacrifice to the temple so dispose of them in the next few days or give them to the Beholders. They at least would have more chance controlling them than what we would, based on your reports. Zithgarlocks serpentine voice answered as he bowed his head to this man, As you wish Sheik. Then all went dark as I was sure death was soon to follow.
-
*continues*
For the next few weeks, which may have been longer, I have been questioned, but basically left alone to suffer. They seemed to have lost interest since the Shiek said to dispose of me. I thought I was just waiting until the day came that they would put me out of my misery. As far as the others that were captured, I knew nothing of them at this point. Did they get bought? Were they going through what I am? Are they still alive?
Finally, finally, my questions were answered. They brought all four of us together. They put us in a room with four poles. The poles had chains at the top to shackles us to. There were others here; just general prisoners or slaves I assumed. These were the ones that were getting the torture now. As for us, we got fed, every other day or so some gruel and water, we were weak, hungry, and in constant agony with the many cuts on our bodies.
Aidens fingers were twisted and bent from being broken severely. He was the only one that appeared to be deformed from the torture. We all were bruised, battered, cut, whelped, bleeding and in general, very poor health.
Then, Folian came through, at some point; a guard removed a shackle from one of my wrists. Although I was very weak and could hardly lift my head, I noticed that when he closed it, it did not shut properly. Once he left and after a few prays, I focused everything I had left on the shackle. After nearly passing out once or twice, I managed to get it open. My arm fell to my side, not able to really control it. The circulation returned giving me feeling and enough control to gather strength and hope to polymorph.
I flew out of a window that was high in the chamber where we were being held. The new air hit me, giving more strength as I flew. I headed, to what felt like South, and crossed some water. The polymorph used almost all I had left. I landed next to a tree line and shifted back. I just sit there...free. The wilderness surrounded me once again. I felt at peace as I sat in the grass and could smell the forest at my back. I was free.
I have no idea how long I was there. I heard voices and battles, but I could not move. I hid. I watched. Did the slavers discover my escape and are looking for me? But why the battles? I lay prone in the taller grass looking out across the flats. The sounds got closer. I melted into my hiding determined not to caught again.
Then the battle noise ceased. I sit up to get a better look. To my amazement, I see a familiar face. It was Avar. Shortly after that, Lillian, the nameless, Quantum, Sniverous...
...then Emie...I cannot describe what the sight of her did to me. She came over and gave me a hug. The smell of her on the breeze was intoxicating and made my head spin. She is an incredible girl.
Quantum healed me. Lillian questioned me, if it was really me. It didn't take much to convince her. However, I knew I was safe once I knew she was involved. And then, through the crowd, standing in the back, I saw another...one that made me feel at ease...it was Aiek.
The reunion was cut short as the battles started up again. Some tried to help me along, but I was too much of a burden to during the fights. So I just stayed in the back of the party as far from the battle as possible.
As we moved about, I started to recall the water that I flew over. I regained my sense of direction, and informed the party of what I remembered. We headed across the harbor to the other shore. There was the tower that I came from. After some fierce fighting, we arrived at the base of the tower. Opening the doors was horrific. Everything that I had experienced in the last several months came flooding back. But I knew the other three were still in there.
We all went in and made it to the chamber where the others were being held. Outside was a beholder that was apparently in charge of a lot. Negotiations began deals were struck. We gathered the other three the ones that had fallen in the last in battle, and left the tower for good. The rest of the trip to North Point was uneventful.
*flexes his finger to relieve his hand from writers cramp*
*lifts his head into the wind to catch it as he breathes in*
*Closes his journal and lies back on the grass. Puts his hands behind his head as a pillow and crosses his feet, relaxing and soaking in the nature that surrounds him.*
-
Wolfswood Ranger Corps Personnel: First Lieutenant Benteen, Major Marcum and Captain Cozak
16th Skirmisher of Wayfare: Allean, Nyeaeana, Goronil, Tialle and G'ork
I received word the Dorena was going to be helping the Wolfswood Ranger Corps. I thought I may be able to give her a hand since she was in my neck of the woods. We met near the headquarters and she filled me in on some happenings about a nomad caravan being attacked in the woods and a group of rangers were ambushed along with some adventurers.
Dorena: 'It seems that the giants knew about the caravan. The group who was supposed to do the ambush said they waited for more than an hour maybe for the giants to appear but they did not. So they had to wait. It seems they were well prepared and organized.'
We went to the headquarters to report what we knew to the captain. He assigned us with the investigations.
Captain Cozak: 'Giants of the Deep grove clan have mustered under the totem of one Squatting Minotaur, son of Standing Bear. Standing Bear being one of the chiefs of chiefs around the forest. The demise of his son at this time is not sanctioned, unless absolutely necessary; on account it would likely start a full blown feud. One we cannot be assured of winning, clear?'
'The caravan, the nomads of III are local traders among other things and vital to the fragile trading economy in these parts; hence we were trying to protect them in the first place. Anyway, they are vital if not necessarily friendly, and have indicated if things do not get better they will migrate from these woods until things are better. Issues here: breakdown of trade, a fragile economy threatened, disruption to stability, spiraling circle of doom, etc.'
We accepted the assignment to find out what the giants were up to and what plans that they had in order to need or want the totem. We set out to the North to monitor the giants in a nearby camp. Giants were normal, bugbear village that was near there seemed to be watching the giants, but nothing concrete.
We then decided to find the nomads and determine exactly what the totem does.
Chieftain of the III clan: 'The caravan was carrying the totem of III. The totem, it was given to the leader of our clan after the vampire years, something to unite our downtrodden and enslaved peoples, a brave new beginning. Anyway it held a magic sway over magical beasts, kept them at arms length, a staff, like a mages staff. I hear the giants use it to rally their number, heard even the Orcs and Bugbear young ones are drawn to serve the Giants.'
Dorena Abianca: 'The nomads used this totem to call their tribe together. And it seems Squatting Minotaur uses this now to gather the giants around him.'
Major Marcum: 'It is reputed to have power over those of other planes, a protection, maybe something more. In the wrong hands, it is it has given Squatting Minotaur a new status. Its likely he intends to make his mark now, prove himself, no he needs a decisive action, a blow to let the forest know he is here, one of the soft targets, a village, a town to the south perhaps...casualties. Now your part is to try and recover this totem without the loss of Squatting Minotaur if you can, before there are more casualties.'
We followed several leads and checked on a couple camps trying to put the pieces together and to locate this camp with the vanishing giants. In addition, we continued to ask other adventures what they have seen in other areas that relate to these events.
We met up with the 16th Skirmishers patrol of Wayfare made up of Allean, Nyeaeana, Goronil, Tialle and G'ork. They did not understand the importance of the mission they were being included in. They were out for revenge. However, revenge was only to ruin everything. Allean had information from an orc on the location of the camp where the giants would be meeting. She also knew that there were some dealings with some outsiders and that there would be some outsiders on guard at the time of the meeting. It took a bit of convincing to get them to realize that we are after the same thing but by force was not the right way to go about it.
We all head to ravine where the meeting is to be held. We move into the ravine where we see some wagons and evidence that there were giants and orcs here already and this would probably be where the meeting will be held. There was one wagon that was better than all the rest; this had to be the wagon where Squatting Minotaur was going to be sleeping. After a quick search inside the fanciest wagon, we realized that this was the wagon and the totem was not present.
We laid out a plan to where we would hide, what we would do when they arrive and how we would get out. Dorena and I had to keep telling them that there would be no attacking or bloodshed.
We had our plan in place as we received reports that some outsiders were ahead of the giants and were in the process of setting guard at the top of the ravine. While Dorena and I were setting up to get the totem from Squatter while he was sleeping, the others were setting up the escape route.
I set up in the wagon, drilling a hole in the floor for a way to get the totem out and also an escape from the wagon so I would not have to shake the wagon or use the door once the totem was in hand. If all else failed, I could drop the totem through the hole and have Dorena pick it up and run.
Squatting Minotaur came in a laid down to sleep. I could hear another giant outside standing watch. I slowly move over to the sleeping giant and very carefully remove the totem from his sleeping hands. Once the totem is cleared, I looked out of the hole in the floor for the guard. The coast was clear so I lowered myself down and joined Dorena on the banks of the small river.
Goronil was spotted!
The giant kills Goronil and luckily, the others did not go on alert and the rest of our party did not attack to save their friend. On Dorena ways through, she picks Goronil and carries him along. We climb up the ropes that the 16th Skirmisher tied to the cliffs. This allowed us an escape route around the outsiders.
We make it back to the Wolfswood Ranger Corps Headquarters and reports to the major. The totem was return to the major. He then promoted me to First Lieutenant and commissioned Dorena into the Corps as Second Lieutenant.
Special thanks to the 16th Skirmishers!
-
*Secretly stops by and checks on Peanut's griffon egg.*
-
*Due to the feeling that he and Folian S'pae are at differences and that their views are no longer the same, he renounces his faith in the Longstrider. He still believes in him, but will no longer be 'devoted' to him. Is this temportary or permanent...he does not know.*
Folian, I have followed you all my life. Over 200 years I have followed you. I have put my life on the line for you. I have proclaimed you through everything. You have changed your ideas, views and ways and I cannot follow them. In the end, you have left me. You will always have a place in my heart and some day, maybe...just maybe, I will worship you once again.
-
*He gathers some items setting around his house for a while and prepares to sell them. At the last moment, he heads to the temple with the goods. He enters the temple eyeing Eliniawith and Kara for moment. He kneels briefly and lowers his hood. He approaches Kara with the donations and hands them over. With only a nod, he turns and leaves.*