The World of Layonara
Character Development => Development Journals and Discussion => Topic started by: Jilseponie Wyndon on September 08, 2005, 04:16:00 PM
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Dear Journal,
I know I have not written here in some time since arriving in Hlint, but things seem to be a bit fast paced and yet . . . quiet. This new land I have arrived on is so much different from, well, back home. Home. A person can have many, yet none. I hope that this new place will provide what I need or should I say, looking for.
Upon my arrival races of all types were so willing to help me in any way possible. They were polite, kind, giving, not like, well, before. What skills I brought with me, rangering, roguish abilities, and a bit of wizardry are somewhat useful, but this place, this land, there is an honesty to it. It is something I could definitely get used to. But the roguish part of me is from another time and definitely not for this place. But at first I felt so out of place and yet I still do at times. When I walk with others, I walk behind, letting them talk, work, and barter with others. I do not really have any skills to offer them. I am still weak from my previous ordeals and lonely.
When I travel with others to help those in dire need against the many forms of evil that pervade the land, I find myself at the rear of the battle. How it hurts to hide behind these noble fighters only to hurl arrows at the beasts, and see how little that helps! I ache to be my former self, but I lack the strength and constitution to hold my own in battle. Gods but I feel so helpless! If there could be another way . . .
One young paladin offered his help on many an occasion. Kharl, I believe is a follower of Toran? I am still not familiar with their gods here. But as time went on, he had others to help and he grew distant from me, rarely speaking unless in someone else
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Dear Journal,
Daren and I went with a group into Storan
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Dear Journal,
Daren and I went with a group into Storan
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Dear Journal,
Glory be to the Gods! Today was just unbelievable! Daren and I went out collecting today and as we did, of course the evil creatures that abound in this part of the world thought we were easy prey! Oh, to fight side by side with that man! Pure exhilaration! How he can be so rough and battle hungry at on moment, then so caring and sweet just after, amazes me. But that I digress. Daren knew that I was tiring and soon to turn in for the evening when he asked me to follow him. No explanation, no talk, so I followed him and we ended up at the Wild Surge Inn. There he had gotten a prepared basket and told me to still follow. That was all that was said, nothing more. I wondered, what was up, why was he so quiet. From there we went to a little place I stay at and we sat down to a basket dinner and some wine! Oh, I was so surprised! And we sat there and talked quietly with no interruptions. It was beautiful. Then he did something I was not expecting so soon. Daren got down on one knee and proposed to ME! I couldn’t speak I was so filled with joy and happiness! Tears of joy ran down my cheeks! I think I made him a bit nervous I took so long to answer him. Nevertheless, when I found my voice my answer lifted the anxiety from his face replacing it with such happiness to match mine! Oh, and what a beautiful ring he gave me too! I do not know exactly what made him propose so soon. Maybe it was the dress that Vivian made for me. It is so beautiful! I think I may have been too fussy about different changes, but Vivian “bit her lips” I guess, and did not complain a bit. When I showed Daren the dress, he seemed speechless . . .
With Daren’s proposal, my past difficulties seem much diminished, but on the edge, I think. It is your past experiences that make the person. They will always be a part of me and now Daren will fill a great void within me. I am so happy!
I am so excited I don’t know what more to say. So I leave you journal with this thought that runs through my mind. Mrs. Jilseponie Valhikor . . .. Mmmmm .
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Dear Journal,
Things are working out well for the most part I must say. Daren and I have finally set a date to be married! A nice gentleman by the name of Quin offered us a room in his house. It seems all the housing has been taken up locally, so we took him up on his offer. We spoke with Ayla and she agreed to perform the ceremony. Yes! The date will be on the first World Tree during Autums Dark. I will have to post a notice so as to let all our friends know being that Daren is still working on his writing skills. He is coming along so well with his lessons.
One other point of interest. I was in at the Inn there in Krandor getting a meal when I overheard two people speaking about someone who was very adept with his bow using the arcane. They said that when he fired an arrow into a group of ogres a fireball erupted from it. When I got up the courage to go over and ask them about it, they had finished their meal and vanished. This is something I will have to look into.
I have tried crafting my own arrows as to purchase nice ones are quite expensive. Alas I’m not doing very well at it. Daren says to keep at it and eventually I will get better at it. I don’t know . . . .. It just seems so hard. But I will try my best at it. Until later then Dear Journal . . . .
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Dear Journal,
Yesterday was a harrowing day. I seem to be getting better at making arrows. I’m having trouble with the smelting, but its working out. The arrows are better than the ones the merchants sell, but not by much. Daren and I met Yard near the Hlint temple. Yard gave me a couple scrolls and he asked how my arcane schooling was coming along. I answered him and in turn asked if he had heard about arcane archers. He knew little but said I should inquire possibly in Spellgard. When Daren finished with his potions, Daren, Yard and I decided on a little adventure in the Battle Fens, (Well the men did). I knew little of this area, but the men seemed confident. We were able to sneak by the troops of Lizard folk until we reached trolls. Apparently there is a cave in the area that we were to go into, but we never made it that far. Daren and Yard strode forward and engaged the trolls, but the trolls refused to go down and they were finding their way through the men’s defenses. My arrows did so little damage if any! We began to retreat, the trolls pressing hard. Suddenly they were overrunning us! I backed away as quick as I could. Daren and Yard fell. I retreated trying to get time to protect myself, to hide. But a troop of the Lizard Folk archers spied me and the arrows rained in . . . .and darkness.
Afterwards, we knew it would be a long time before we would be completely whole again unless we were able to go back to where we had passed. I entreated Kaiser Thell to assist us in this endeavor and he agreed. The man is a war machine, pushing his way through any obstacle letting nothing stop him. We thanked him well when he left us, as we were whole once again, but it left me with disconcerting thoughts about my abilities. I must go to Spellgard. I must find answers somewhere . . ..
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Dear Journal,
If yesterday did not prove anything to me, nothing will. I write this today feeling a little insubstantial, my body feeling quite weak in so many ways. I sit here in my room reflecting on my passing, and how I came to be in this condition. And it all started so beautifully too . . . .
When I met up with Daren yesterday things appeared to be going so well. We were discussing the many things that needed to be done before our wedding in 19 days. I finally received a letter from Luna who accepted my invitation as one of the bridesmaids. I also wanted to ask Dorena if she would be my Maid of Honor but I have been unable to find her of late. I would like to ask two others to be bridesmaids, but alas, I have not many females who really speak to me, nor acknowledge my presence, so I am at a loss. I realize that I am not much of a social person, I feel as if I am intruding upon their business, so I wait until someone speaks to me first. Therefore, in that sense . . . I put myself in that position. Now as I travel with Daren, he has so many friends, I usually stand back and listen to the conversations. When we walk up to those standing about, they all acknowledge him in one way or another, my presence feels as though I am invisible. Yes, it is a lonely feeling, as if I am being slighted, and it does bother me. But it does offer one very small advantage. I watch and see what the others say and do. Gauge their reactions and comments, which gives me insight into their character. I apologize Journal if I seem to ramble on . . . my emotions are going in all directions.
Anyways, we headed into Hlint, took care of business and decided to do a little adventuring into the High Forest. North of Lake Ibenaine we encountered the Kenku and they put up a tremendous fight. They were everywhere around us, going invisible, and attacking from every corner. But we prevailed. It was exhilarating! We then passed into the rolling plains west of there and a griffon attacked us. It swooped down over me, but Daren and I were able to fend it off. Then we stepped into the High Forest. I was able to stealth my way inside and just a short ways in I spotted 3 orcs. I asked what Daren thought we should do. Pass them by or try to take them by surprise? He responded whatever I wanted to do. We took them by surprise and were able to disable them. Daren did most of the work as my skills were quite lacking. We continued past some ruins and we saw another 3 orcs. I asked again, pass or remove them. He said whatever you wish. I decided to attempt their removal. Passing travelers would be at their mercy. And we attempted. My arrows, my sword were both ineffective. All three trained their crossbows at me with bolts tainted with poison. They came at me with their cruel weapons. I retreated to the forest wall, fighting them off, and two of them followed. I was put down, but stabilizing just waiting for them to move off enough so I could sneak away. But Daren wasn’t so lucky. He ran past me with his dying vestiges of strength and partially healed me as the two orcs turned to him. As I rose from the ground, they whirled around and in a great slashing strike . . . smote me down. I lay there, my eyes glued open watching Daren’s fall also before my eyes. I could not even close my eyes as he fell. Slowly it seemed, my mind screaming, Noooo! And then he passed, and time passed. Time moves slow as your spirit hovers over it’s still warm corpse. Then I could see Daren’s insubstantial form. He was coming for me! I willed my spirit back to my prone form and watched as he began to cut his way towards me. Then as I watched, the orcs began to overwhelm him, his summoned help blown away by a brown bear coming to investigate the noise in its home wood. I watched in creeping then overwhelming horror as he was struck down yet again. My spirit screamed as it tore from my dead limbs, rising up into the world in-between where it is decided if you are to continue or be allowed to return. Memories from my past blending with memories of now. Pain … everywhere … an eternal ethereal scream tears from my soul ... blackness.
When light began to coalesce around me, I was back in Hlint. Daren’s stooped form of defeat stood beside me. Anger at myself, then sadness crept into me as I looked at his form knowing that this. . This was from my choices. I did this to him. I . . . diminished him. And my heart broke.
The walk back to my room was mostly quiet. It was as if I could feel his pain and embarrassment flow off him as I followed him. Later he tried to comfort me. I know that his faith in me for that decision was lessened, though he may disagree. He tries so to spare my feelings. I let him cheer me up somewhat, but then after he left, I slipped back and watched my memories play that fateful battle over and over . . .
So I sit here and ponder. What of my life? My choices? I chose to dabble in wizardry, but my intelligence in that area is at best, minimal. I cannot do the simplest of tasks. I cannot memorize the first level of scrolls I do have into my spell book. And I have worked at this for over 3 seasons! Great wizardry must not be in my blood. Maybe I am to use what little I know towards something else. I have heard that the arcane arts can be used to deadly effect in an archers hand, but I have not been able to find any information on it. I have been to the great library three times, and can find nothing. Maybe it is just a rumor, a child’s tale. Nevertheless, I can not give up yet. All stories have bits of truth in them. I just have to keep looking. Before I hurt another through my ineptness. Before I lose another hus . . . *Teardrops cover the lower part of the page, ink from the other side of the parchment blotting. The final word runs into a line leading to the edge of the page.*
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Dear Journal,
Just a quick entry today. Even after the disaster the other day, Daren found a most wonderful way to cheer me up. Yes, the wedding is just 17 days away and things are actually starting to brighten up. Daren left a note in my room to come meet him near Blackford Castle and he left an address. I was not in a great mood, but it said he had a surprise for me. I went to where the letter stated and I did not see him anywhere. I walked up to the address and knocked on the door. Imagine my surprise when the nameplate listed his name! The door opened and there he stood with a good friend of ours with a big smile on his face. He said, it's ours Love. I was shocked! With the help of his friend, he was able to find this place for us as a wedding gift! My stomach had butterflies in it! Oh, and Vivian has almost finished my wedding dress! Its looking so beautiful!
Another matter I wanted to mention . . . of late I have been seeing the creatures of this place out of thier environment. A werewolf attacking the innocents in the rangers vale (I helped put it down), ambushed by lizard folk near the gate in the goblin wastelands (Nez and I took them out of commission), ogres on the road to Fort Llast (Thanks to Daren it's gone), Kenku patrolling the roads north of Lake Ibenaine (Kreeg was most helpful sending them packing). Strange times are coming . . .I can feel it, but I am not ready, not yet . . .
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Dear Journal,
The past few days have been very hectic and nerve-wracking. First and foremost in my mind is the wedding. Only 4 days away now. My hands quiver slightly thinking about it. It is just another step in life, I think to myself. Then why do I shake so? It is what I want more than anything in the world. Just pre-wedding jitters, I guess. And no, there is no way I’m backing out. No thought at all. Forward, keep moving forward. Think of Daren . . .
What else have I to worry about? The good people here in Hlint and surrounding townships. I am afraid for them. I cannot be everywhere at once; I cannot hold back an invading force . . . . I put up a notice at the Wild Surge Inn. I hope that people will pay attention to it. And I have been trying to spread the word. Yesterday I was in the Sielwood bordering the wastelands and one of the forest creatures came up to me. It was nervous and kept looking towards the east, north of the Witches Home. Then it bolted as a raiding party of Orcs ran at me. Instantly I thought of the High Forest. My heart skipped a beat. I froze for maybe a moment then, my mind directed me to protect the creature. I was too stunned to tell it to run. I counted maybe six orcs and a shaman as I let fly with a couple arrows before I was surrounded then dropped it for my sword. Daren was coming up behind me asking about the forest creature when the attack started. Poor Daren was weighted down with nuggets he had just mined, drew his battle-axe and waded in. I cleared the orcs around me and picked up my bow as another party came running into view. Arrows were flying everywhere, trying to keep the shamans from casting. And before the last orc fell a third group came running in. We dropped maybe three of those before the others turned tail and disappeared into the deep shadows of the wood. During the battle, I watched as an arrow pierced the forest creature, instantly taking its life. Moreover, I felt as if . . . a part of me had died with it. How can the people expect me to protect them if I cannot save a simple creature? I searched for clues that would tell me where the orcs were from or why they were there, but I found nothing. I should have been able to drop the orcs sooner, but my arrows are severely lacking. I told Dorena Musictear about the incident and we went down into the Sielwood cave looking for clues. Nothing. We searched through the wood all the way through to the Broken Forest and came up empty.
Daren found a mineral emerald the other day. He was so shocked! He put up an auction notice at the Trade and Market Hall. Apparently they are hard to come by. Why am I writing this? Because what coin he earns from this he will use to go towards building a new temple for his Goddess, Az’atta. That man cares so much for the people around him and his god, it just tears at my heart. That’s one of the reasons why I love him so, his willingness to help others no matter what the cost. The night grows long and I must meditate for the evening. Goodnight.
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Dear Journal,
Today I helped a friend get back into the High Forest to return to the spot from which he had fallen. We arrived there and he was able to reflect a final time and continue on his way to wherever his destiny may take him. After he left, I walked the quiet wood, reflecting the past weeks events, when a shadowed figure walked from behind a tree, then leaning against it. “I’ve seen you around,” he said. My hand relaxed slightly around my bow. I don’t take kindly to spies,” I said in reply. He held his open palms in plain sight, but I stayed on guard. “What is it you want of me?”
“Me? I want to give you a bit of information.” I nodded for him to go on. “I saw you dealing with a raiding party of orcs back in the Sielwood some time back.”
“If you were there, why didn’t you assist?”
“If you were alone, I may have, but that big puppy dog that follows you around was there to help.” He shrugged his shoulders. “If you had been alone you would have fallen, I would have helped then. But your skill doesn’t even come close to what archery skills could be doing for you.” I turned my head and looked in another direction. He does not miss much.
“So what more skills can I have? I can only craft arrows to a point where they do some damage, beyond that . . . What more can I do.” The man laughed. He really laughed at me! My cheeks went red.
“I heard you speaking to a tall skinny man near the temple in Hlint, I think you called him Yard. Strange name . . .” I instantly remembered the conversation this man was referring too. My eyes widened and he saw that, nodding his head. He does not miss much.
“You know something about the rumors I’ve heard?”
“Ma’am, I live those rumors.” I took a step and he backed away a few steps. “No, I’m not here to give lessons. Just sit down and listen.”
He proceeded to tell me about how Blood was starting to move in on Mistone using his minions like the orcs and the kobalds and other unsavory creatures that roamed these parts to terrorize and destroy our good people. It fell to rangers like us to help protect the woods and the surrounding communities. Nevertheless, I would not be able to be even half-effective with my current skills. So he explained on how one could imbue arrows with arcane magics that would turn arrows into shafts of fire or arrows that cannot miss! The increase of damage that each arrow can install on the target. We sat there for some time as he told me the different abilities that can be imbued into an arrow with just the right magics. And he called himself an Arcane Archer and that there were so few out there.
When he was done, he backed into the dark shadows of the twilight and left without a sound. I never even thought to ask his name. This is what I have been looking for! After all these years, now the question is where do I find someone to teach me . . .
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Dear Journal,
I am so happy! My wedding was beautiful! All those that gathered to help us with the ceremony and those who came to witness I am so grateful to. Ayla did such a wonderful job of performing the ceremony, Dorena and Luna looked marvelous in their gowns. Yard, Ael and Garnet looked so handsome standing there. And Acacea in her dress! She really put a smile on my face to see such enthusiasm, not that she has it all the time (giggles). All the love and support helped to ease my nervousness. Daren looked so handsome standing there under the willow. As he gave his vows, they touched my heart so deeply that I shed tears. He is so understanding . . . . Especially when it concerns my past. My heart just melted! And Luna! It was the first time I have seen her face! She looks so beautiful; I do not know why she hides it. Then when the ceremony was completed, fireworks shot through the skies in such an array of patterns and colors...it was breathtaking!
Afterwards at the reception everyone was so kind with their words and their gifts. I will have to make sure I write them and thank them again. And as for the wedding night . . . it was more than what I expected! So now I have taken Daren’s last name and now we are complete. Now to see what lies ahead . . .
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Dear Journal,
Its been awhile since I wrote and things have not changed much until recently. But during my absence from you I have been most happy being married! The love and caring he has for me just shows no bounds. And he is always wanting to help me with my crafting or whatever little project I'm working on. Oh, but when Iwant to help him .. ."There is nothing to be done," he says. "No worries." Heh, he always says that. How I love that man! But I found out just how much I do love him after my little adventure a couple days ago. My heart felt as if it was being split in two!
A little boy brought me a letter from someone in my past, a time I have hidden away in my mind. The monk I had know was sent a package and a letter for a request for help from the elves that it was affecting, of which I 'Had' to go. For there was a spirit in a wood draining magical energy from items who bore a most striking resemblence to my first love and husband who died in my arms after a fierce battle with a great demon. The spirit of my husband needed a vile of magical essence, guarded deep within a tower, so he could see me again then pass on to Katia. During this exchange, emotions long buried for him bubbled to the surface. How I wanted to see him again, hold him in my arms! My body grew weak with such emotional stress! Then it hit me . . . if he was whole again . . . what about Daren? My heart split open and how I cried! I would retrieve it I said, and rushed off to do so. After many trials, the vial was retrieved, but as I held the vial in my hand, a realization slowly entered my mind. The emotions that assailed me upon looking at Elbryan after all these years and his spirit held by the soul mother, was used against me. It was a veil over my eyes. Elbryan in real life wuld never have perverted the magics I controlled or thier essences, nor would he do the same of life. He had such a great respect for life! And slowly I realized that the spirit was not of him. But of the Demon we battled and defeated, that killed my husband before me . . . he wanted his revenge and to live upon our plane of existence. We confronted the spirit and indeed it revealed itself for the demon it was. We battled it and with assistance from the elves, it was put down once again, back to the abyss from whence it came.
The elves were most gratified that I was able to sort this problem out and in return offered to train me in the ways of becoming an Arcane Archer like them. I was most honored. But I could not have done it alone. Though Daren was away at the time, Yardislan and Garnet accompanied me throughout my ordeal and were most helpful. I could not have done it without thier help. They are truly great friends.
And there is one other thing. The emotional stress I went through brought to my attention to a change within my body. I am very nervous and I should go speak to a healer or someone at a temple . . . and how will I tell Daren . . . he is about to become a father.
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Well, he took the news pretty well Journal. And of that I am so glad. We talked at such length that we were up into the early hours. This will be his first child and he is a bit nervous, but in my heart I know he will be a great father. I want our child to grow up knowing his parents and the love and joy they shared together and with such great friends surrounding them. So I told Daren that if he wishes, he will have access to you, dear journal, to write down his memories, his trials, his joys as he helps raise and grow with our child. I have nothing in here to hide from him, and I keep no secrets from him. From this our child will have soething to look back on, and possibly to show to thier children. Today I see a healer as to when the child will be due. Daren wants a girl . . . like her mom. Mom. The word feels strange coming from my lips. I was not able to make it that far before . . . But Daren will be beside me all the way. I couldn't ask for anything more. *Smiles*
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Dear Journal,
Just a quick note on a situation on the deeds of men. This is something I don't want to forget. Last night when we got home I told Daren I was going to take a bath. He said he would go and warm up the water for me while I put things away in the kitchen. As I was doing that, there was a sudden 'boom' and the house shook. I went to the bathroom to find Daren standing there, covered from head to foot in ashes. The tub and the chair in there were gone. He said: "Don't even ask." But I had too. He had tried casting Flame strike on the water to heat it up. I was so mad a first, after I finally got the story out of him, I just had to laugh. But I couldn't let him see me do that. Men! The things they try to do. *Giggles*
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Dear Journal;
Time has flown so quickly here, It is just less than 2 months before the baby is due. Daren has been fawning all over me since I have really started to show. The poor man, I have been so moody, always changing my mind, but he has stood by me all the way. I am glad I knew where to find aloe as it has worked wonders on my ever-stretching stomach. Oh, how it itches at times! Nevertheless, just a few more weeks plus and she will be born into this world. Sharyn’Aylathen Valhaikor. (Pronounced Sharn Ayla then) Oh, how our lives will be changed! We can not wait . . . .
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Dear Journal,
As I write this, it is late and Daren lies beside me heavily asleep totally exhausted. I look down in the crook of my arm and out newborn baby girl, Sharyn'Aylathen and smile. Poor Daren. I think the birthing process really took a toll on him, and me as well. This being my first newborn, after a brief rest, I find it hard to sleep looking upon this wonder in my arms. As I look at her, many things run through my mind, but first and foremost, her protection. With the threat of the war getting closer to our shores, the demons rampaging through our lands and the smaller evils working thier ways into our lives, I grow fearful. But then I look over to Daren. Our knight in shining Az'atta armor. *Chuckles* And I know that he would never let anything happen to her.
Daren thinks she would make a good cleric or I, think a ranger. But after thinking on it more, is it really our choice? Yes, we can give them the knowledge we have learned to help protect them in the coming years, but in the end it will always be thier choice. Thats what makes them an individual, their own person. We as parents don't want copies of ourselves, we want them to be better than we were. And with the guidance and nurturing we give unto them, hopefully they will make better choices, live fuller lives and in the end, proud of what they have accomplished.
Choices, thats what everything comes down to. Which is the better? Which is the right? I have made many wrong choices over the years and I learn from them. I hope Sharyn makes fewer wrong choices and more good ones as she grows. And of course Daren and I will be there to help guide her along the way.
And to Sharyn'Aylathen, who this journal will be turned over to in her later years. This journal will tell you of our love for you, our experiences. We would never profess to be perfect parents, nor always right. But I hope that in reading this you will see things from our point of view to better understand what we have taught you. We love you so very much and all we do is for you.
So now, I say goodnight, as your fathers snores have lessened and I may be able to meditate. I love you both.
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*Tucked into the pages of this book, the folded parchment (http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=21965&posts=2&start=1) reads as follows*
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*Written in a scrabbly form that could barely be called handwriting on the back of a fine, although creased as if hastily folded, parchment containing the signatures of Queen Allurial and King Weyland.* I dunna know where yer frm, but I aint no necro, I aint no damn seer, I dunna look at stars an I dunna fondle animal guts. I'm jus a guy wit a wife, a kid, a house an a bloody war on me hands. I said this one time in anger, but th mre I think bout it, th mre I think tis all ye really gotta know bout me. Me bein yer father. Tis a good chance that by th time ye get ta een know ow ta say me name, that I'll be gone. One o th prblems wit bein a human I guess. This stupid war leaves me in quite a spot ye cld say. Do I leave ye an yer mother ta go off an elp save th world? Er do I wait an trust in othrs ta do it fer me an hope th war dunt cme ere ta home. Eithr way, no matter what ye hear, fer good er bad, all ye need ta know is th ferst thing I eer wrote. Yer father ws jus a norml guy who tried his best bcause he loves his family An also know that I love ye Sharyn, yer th best gift anbody cld eer ask fer.
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Dear Journal;
“Sharyn is over six months now and growing like a weed. Just changing her now I see that I have to make the cloths a bit bigger to wrap her in. Her eyes are always wide with wonder and so inquisitive. And how her eyes light up when daddy picks her up. He is spoiling her so badly . . . heh . . not that I don’t mind. It is so beautiful to see them together.”
“We understand she is half elf and half human, and I hope she takes on the best qualities of both races. But Daren, well . . . I think he might be rushing things a bit. He spoke the other day about baptizing her by his goddess and I told him I thought it would be best if we were to let her decide when she gets older. I understand that she is too young to understand what is really happening, but I see in the people around me hatred of one another just because of what gods they favor. You should judge a person by their actions. . not their beliefs. But that is my view. Over the many years, both previous to Layonara and after I have seen so much . . . pain, bloodshed, and anger over this subject. To me it is like saying to another. . ‘Since you have such a liking for pears and I hate them . . . then I hate you just as well.’ It is very narrow-minded of people to think that way. No wonder there is so much hate in the world around us. And I would not like my daughter to grow up with those type of ideas.”
“Also dear journal, I noticed that Daren’s moods have been changing. It seems that this war is putting some stress upon him. He wants to go so badly in the service of our peoples, yet he also fears for the safety of his newfound family. We have spoken numerous times on the ways of elves, but his memory appears to be failing in that area. Many nights I feel him suddenly jostle in his sleep, suddenly become motionless, then so slowly climb out of bed and go downstairs. He thinks I am asleep, though I am only in a meditative state. Nevertheless, I say nothing, breathe easy, and let him do what he wishes. I just wish I could ease his troubles and soothe his nerves if he would only open up to me. But he is prideful and I hope he knows that I will support him in the best way I can. As for the war . . . well . . . if he wishes to go off and help, then I will accept that as he deems it best in his eyes. I would follow if I could, but I have Sharyn to look after and raise, so to that end I will help the war here at our front door.”
“His sleep is so broken, I should offer some herbs to help him sleep. I would never give him any without his knowledge. To do something like that is such a breach of trust in our marriage. I could never do that to him.”
She looks over the Sharyn lying on a large skin, crawling everywhere, getting into everything, and smiles. Sharyn suddenly looks up to see her mother smiling down at her, she smiles open mouthed, a bit of drool running down her chin, she squeals and crawls quickly to be picked up. Jil puts her journal aside and pulls a small cloth from her pocket and wipes Sharyn face, while the child tries to grab playfully at it. She grabs it and starts to stuff it in her mouth, but when she sees mom shake her head, the hands stop, and slowly drop. She smiles, bounces her hands up and down and throws the cloth at her mother who laughs and tickles her in return. She is once more put upon the skin as mom prepares to finish her entry into the book setting beside her.
“The war is has been growing and a new threat has invaded out homes. Demons have been appearing and attacking the towns and its populace. I fear that one time I will be out with Sharyn and we will be caught out in the open when they attack once again. I hope that others will not see me as cowardly if I was to flee if only for the protection of my child. Otherwise, yes I would fight back side by side with those also in danger. And a demon trapped beneath the gray peaks . . . *Shivers* . . . these times do not bode well. Though through the training I have received from the Arcane Archers that I met years ago, my abilities with the bow have increased greatly. I thank them each time I use them and it saves a friend or myself. A few more seasons and I should be able to better Sharyn as she gets older, I want to start training her in the ways of the outdoors for survival, but that is many years from now so I have time to prepare. I’ll let her choose her path . .*Smiles at Sharyn playing with the bears head of the skin* . . . its her life.
-
Dear Journal;
Its been a long time since I last wrote and I blame it all on motherhood. *Laughs* Hhe, someone has to take the blame. Sharyn is almost 2 years old now, and how time flies, that she is now stumbling about learning to walk. As I sit here at Daren big desk writing, she is circling about it, pulling papers, books and anything she can get her hands on and dropping it to the floor. She will grab something look up at me with a big smile, see me smiling down at her, then laugh and throw it to the floor. Then she would pick it back up and try to put it back as it falls again unnoticed as she moves on. She has been quite the handful.
Things have quieted down a bit, no threats, no dangers so I am being more of a mom and less of an adventurer for the time being. Oh, I still go out, but not for long periods of time. I still have to put food on the table, gather things to make her clothing that she is growing fast out of, and of course patrol different areas to be sure that the outlying locals are not harrassing the townsfolk. I shot down 2 goblins that was chasing down a young woman the other day and she stopped long enough to thank me. I had her loot for whatever coins the mangy things had and directed her to a campfire for some proper rest.
Daren and Yard had a tough day as they were quite overwhelmed by giants and such. Daren fell 3 times and the battle was so wild I could not get close enough to save him. The soul mother is still away and he lost no part of himself in holding them off that gave me a chance to get away. My hero. *Smiles* But I am definitely improving in my skills in fighting and especially my archery skills. Daren was caught off guard the other day by a large group of deaders, as he call them. I watched him go down, and I, standing a short distance away firing arrows, quickly equipped my sword and shield and waded into the crowd about him as he slowly sank to the forest floor. I battered two into pieces above him, and while taking many blows, applied a major healing potion into his mouth, some about the face as I was rained upon, and healed him enough to get t ohis feet, cast a spell and help me finish putting them back into the ground where they belong. To give ones life where there is hope, and to have it all come together and and triumph is such a wonderful feeling. And I think to myself, is this how others feel, like Daren or Alantha or any goodly cleric or person with healing powers feels when they do this? And I think back on the woman I saved in the goblin wastelands, and the healer in the Rangers vale and the others . . . maybe there was a spark there, slowly building, that brought me to this point, this feeling of duty, accomplishment. And in perusing my weaker moments, my bad days and the good . . . they all led down a path that led me here. To this moment, now, with Sharyn climbing into my lap pretending to read my journal . . heh, yes I can see it now. My former life that brought me here, meeting Kharl then Daren and Yard, my trials and tribulations of reforming a new life here, Sharyn'Aylathen . . . all these events in my life suddenly flow through my mind and it is as if a warm healing is passing through me, not only of mind, but of heart. *Hugs Sharyn and sets her back on the floor with bits of smudged ink on fingers and face, licks a piece of cloth and wipes her clean admist protests* I don't think I would be here at this point if it were not for Daren and Sharyn and of course the wonderful friends I have encountered that have helped mould me into the person I am. And I so much hope that through my childs years I wil be able to teach her the things I was taught with the love and support I received.
It is amazing the thoughts that surface as I relate to you, journal, the simple everyday happenings and to have born out of them realizations I may not have seen normally. And to this, what comes to mind . . .
Sharyn'Aylathen, when you are older and you read through this, begin your own journal if you haven't already. To just write out your thoughts, your adventures . . . new insightful things surface and we learn more about ourselves, who we really are inside. We will have our rises into glory and our falls into despair, but those incidents is what helps mould us into better people. Well, you eating the house plant . . . *Runs to her and picks bits of leaves out of Sharyn's mouth laughing at the faces she is making* And no, you didn't like its flavor *Grinning* Anyways . . . always remember, no matter what I will always love you and your father very much and anything we do is for the saftey of you and the other peoples of this land. Hold thatlove in your heart and Ihope someday that you will find somene as loving as your father to court you and make your life as wonderful as mine has been. Its geeting close to your bedtime, so let me get you out of the chest you climbed into and put my things back in it and into bed. I have quite a bit of a mess to clean up, thank you very much *Grins* and Iwould liek to have that done before your father gets home and sees it.
And of course Dear Journal, thank you for helping me . .see me.
*She sets the quill down, blows upon the parchment drying the ink and hears a crash that sounds like some potion splattering and runs to investigate*
-
Dear Journal,
How time slips by! Sharyn is finally in bed, Daren fell asleep on the couch snoring . . I have a little time to write before I, myself must meditate. At three and a half, Sharyn is everywhere. The one thing I regret is not being able to take her with me when I am asked to assist in keeping this wonderful land safe. But lately, being around the house has been giving me one benefit. Garnet, when not busy has been babysitting for me. (Which has been quite a bit) H has been teaching Sharyn some dwarven and as for me . . . alot of dwarven. Over these past few years, I have taught him some common . .. its gotten somewhat better . . *Grins* But I am picking up his language quite well. I can remember when I couldn't understand a word he was saying . . . I guess I bluffed my way though it well enough .he never said anything. Heh. I think this may come in handy. A few years ago we (a group of adventurers) traveled to a place where they only spoke dwarven and not a single member of our group could speak it. That was very interesting. But now, I think I can handle myself quite well.
I met a new friend today. Her name is Sa'kura. Actually she and another were lying almost dead in the goblin wastelands. I was able to save her, but her friend was already too far out of my reach. We traveled a bit . . yes, I left my horse in Lelion helping a group out a couple days ago . . and I kind of showed her around. She is quite bold and moves forward a bit too quickly at the start of battle, but in time Ithink she will learn to scout the area and find a safer way of engaging the enemy. I hope to see more of her about . . . she has so much potential. Oh, her friend . .Rei I think his name was . . . he was pretty quiet. Didn't say much. *A line looks scribbled as if caught writing in the middle of a yawn* Lai wants an oak bow . . . in trade for a box of silk. I could really use that. I'm trying to collect enough dire bear skins to try and make Daren a very nice pair of Gloves of Fury . . . but my skills need work . . . and I need Dire bear . . . Too tough to handle myself . . . Oh well, goodnight journal.
-
*In the quiet of the night, she slips out of bed and pads her way into the main room, tosses a couple logs into the fireplace then walks to the desk and sits down. Opening a drawer she pulls out a book well taken care of and opens it to where a ribbon marks a page. Picking up and dabbing into an ink pot, the quill hovers over the page as she ponders . . where to begin. A droplet of ink spatters on the edge of the page. Seeing this, she sets the quill aside and quickly dabs it up, leaving a small stain behind. Before picking the quill back up, she thinks back on the many things she has done and realizes she would be up all night writing everything in detail. Nodding her head once in a final thought decision, she takes the quill to paper.*
Dear Journal,
The past year has had its ups and its downs. Its ups . . Learning Dwarven from Garnet. I'm still working at it . . . my vocal cords get a bit sore working at it too long, Sharyn turned 4 years old, (Laughs thinking of Daren chasing her around the house) Rescued the residents buried in the Temple in Stone, We stopped the quakes and demon attacks on the local towns and getting the house remodeled. Well, still waiting on that as we are next on the list.
Its downs . . . Murder in Pranzis, The attack on Blackford, A rift opening over the desert on Dregar, and the Lich is back. It has been spotted in different towns asking about Daren. We destroyed the orb to stop the demon attacks and this Lich is looking for something we don't have. *Sighs* But as per usual a new problem arises after an old one has been solved so we just take things one day at a time.
To Sharyn,
Yes, it does look as if trouble follows us everywhere we go and it is not because of a curse *Snickers*. These troubles actually affect many peoples. So why do your parents go out and put thier lives in danger for things that are not directly related to them? Well, they are in so many ways. You just don't see it unless you look very closely. A lot of these peoples are our friends, and their friends become our friends. Those people have children, like you. The evil that courses through our lives effects us in so many ways, the greatest being our freedom. And without that we would surely perish, if not quickly, then a slow painful one. There are many people out there that care not what happens, they don't assist in these matters. And in that way, they allow evil to grow and spread. And no place would be safe for any of us.
No freedom to roam the forests, explore new lands, speak with new people, watch the birth of docile animals as they grow, to freely walk in the rain and listen to it hitting the leaves, to see a rainbow cross overhead, listen to the early morning birdsong or the good night of a Whippoorwill . . . and not worry if something is sneaking up behind you to take it all away or to take you away from it all. Your father and I wish to preserve this world so that you and many other children will have a safe place to grow up and live in. So I hope that though your early years you did not fret so. At this point you are 4 years and in another year you will get better schooling and you will be taught simple things of the outdoors mostly identifying animals and plants and as for what your father will teach . . . he and I will have to discuss that. I hope that as your continue to grow you will see that what we do is for the greater good of all and that you also will do the same someday.
So, enough of my preaching for in the coming year I will be teaching. Reading, writing and languages. Elvish and common from me, Dwarven from Garnet and others as time (and teachers) permits. And yes, there will be fun too of course . . . we can't forget that. *Smiles* We love you very much.
*She puts the quill down, lightly sands it over and leaves the book open for the pages to dry. She hopes Daren puts in a few words and the open book would remind him to do so. She sits back thinking of what she wrote and sees the enormity of what lays before her. Taking a deep breath, she smiles knowing that Daren will be there to help, making things fun, some difficult, but just being there all the same. She rises from the chair and on the way back to the bedroom, she drops another log onto the fire and looks out at the slowly approaching dawn. Another day, she thinks to herself. She climbs carefully back into bed, beside the hulking snore beast and smiles. She reaches out, slowly caresses his face, and he quiets. A smile slowly growing on his face, then fades as the snoring begins again. She lays beside him, closes her eyes and relaxes into her reverie until he rises with the new day.*
-
Dear Journal,
Just a quick note. Things have been realtively quiet of late with one exception. AS I was coming back from Dalanthar one eve, I saw a Malar Panther blocking my path. Summoming Kreeg for assistance and boosting him magically, I found that is was too much of a task and fell. Upon returning to that place under the spell of invisibility, I found much to my woe that it could still see me.
On a brighter note, language lessons from Garnet are coming along better. My throat is getting use to the rough accents. Watching him and Sharyn playing together is so comical. *Smiles at the thoughts* Well, til later then . . .
-
*Written very carefully on a small piece of parchment, slid in between the pages where Jil is sure to find it*
Tis still plenny early but I'm headin outta th house now twards Hlint. I dunt know if ye fergot, but we have that meetin bout the lich tanight. I'm amost worried that ye aint found yer way back yet, but still, ye know what yer doin. Give Sharyn' a kiss an my love, tell her I'll be back soon, an if'n she has ta go ta bed bfore I get home, tell her that I'll take her fishin tamorrow.
Love ye wit all my heart
Daren
-
Its been a few days since Daren's note and yet I've to still hear from him. Its notlike him not to send word by messenger bird. I hope things are all right. Garnet said that he should be fine, knowing Daren . . . just gets too involved in his projects from time to time.
My throat is becoming accustomed to the dwarven language now, and the words are becoming more properly pronounced. . . But still . . . I feel as if something isn't quite right . . . Daren's been gone quite some time . . .
-
Daren is still gone Journal, andit seems the Lich has him in its clutches deep within the underdark. We are gathering a group to get him out of there but things don't look so well. He missed Sharyn's 5th birthday, and we will have to make that up once we get him home.
I spoke with Garnet about it after we trekked from Norh Point To Pranzis through the mountains. He asked me where I had spotted Crag Cats while exploring. Along the way through the safer parts, we worked at learning each others langauges more. garnet agreed Iwas picking things up alot smoother. He said he would come along to help get Daren back. Oh how I miss him!
Spoke with Rhizome yesterday . . . he told me much about the Great Oak. I found it all really fascinating. Unknowingly I was following the ways of the organization that is about the Great Oak. He asked if I could help spread thier word. Wiha Treecut was with me and I told her she could help me if she wanted. She really liked that. I think she does not interact with many folk as she being a goblin . . *Blinks and thinks back*
Strange . . . it was goblins that killed my parents so long ago, I always had a seething type hatred for the race. But . . . she did not appear threatening, her face was originally covered, I wonder if I have finally let go that part of me. But if I was to see a goblin harassing a citizen in a threatening way . .I'm sure those feelings would come back, but I like Wiha. She has alot of good in her. *Smiles* Anyways .. I told Rhizome if ever he need my bow, it would be there ready for him. The balance must be kept in check if we are to survive as a people.
Now that Sharyn has turned five, I will be taking her to local safe woods and beging showing her the simple things about nature that only someone her age can understand. Kinds of animals, plants, the animals way of life, this Iwill do slowly. She is young, but she picks things up quick. She is growing up so fast . . .
-
Well journal, it looks as if I'll be packing you up for a bit until I get you settled back in Blackford. The house here in Pranzis is about to be remodeled. It sure is taking some time to get it done. Daren had done up the plans himself for the changes so I hope this speeds up the process. It took some time, but everything is out except for the portal. I will still have use of it until I get the final word of the construction.
Garnet has taken on an understudy of a sorts. He has a trainee to also become a Brother of battle. He is quite secretive about it. But he still does have time to teach Sharyn and myself more of the dwarven language. I have been becoming quite fluent in it now and and I am not so slow in speaking it anymore. Sharyn, I think just likes it when he comes over so she can play with her uncle. *Smiles* Those two together are a handful.
I showed Dorena how t oscribe the other day. not that Icould show her much as she knows many more spells of the ranger than I do. She should become quite adept at it. Hopefully good enough I could get some higher circle spells scrolls from her. I think she will do really well at it.
Outside of that . . . As for Sharyn, she misses her father greatly. We finally found us a guide to take us into the underdark and everything has been prepared. He got his first half of the payment, the rest upon our return. I have been keeping myself busy crafting and teaching Sharyn and just pray for the best . . .
-
Well Journal, not alot has been happening of late. My tailoring skills have been improving. I made another exceptional belt of cunning, my 5th one I think and I've made 2 pairs of exceptional gloves of fury so far. I have the items to make Hill Hound leather, but my skills are not that good and I am afraid of messing it up. It requires an enchanted diamond and they are so hard to get.
Sharyn turned six years old, *Smiles* and she is quite the handful. I think she gets that part from her father.
I've also gotten the dwarven language down pretty good, Garnet still is teching me a few things, but I think he comes over mostly to play with Sharyn.
But, that is about it . . not much else to report, so til next time . . .
-
Dear Journal,
Another year has come and passed, bringing with it tidings both good and bad. Blood has been defeated, but at a heavy price. I myself fought to protect the great oak with Oslo, the Dragon that called many here to this land. Though we won the battle, Oslo fell. I fought beside him as he helped protect us as we took down the remaining forces of evil, but in the final moments, he fell beside me and the ground shook. And my heart ached. As we stood about him, there was little I could do, and I walked to his side and laid a rose beside, silently thanking him and wishing him a safe journey onto his next life.
Pranzis fell, and now the city has been taken over by the forces that over-ran it. Some within the city like the change, others do not. We are still allowed access in, to the shops, its halls, our homes . . . but under the guide lines of the general that rules it now.
Blood himself was defeated and his home exploded and burned for days, the sky growing dark. Weeks later, the skies haven't changed and are not expected to for a long long time. At least I can remember what a sunset or a sunrise looked like. For it will be nothing but a memory in the years to come.
Daren was rescued from the underdark. I myself found the key to his cell. As Iopened the door, he stood leaning against the wall, weakened from lack of food and water, tortured, but he still had that look in his eye of defiance. We healed him as best we could and climbed from that nasty corrupt pit and made it home. He has changed . . . but what man wouldn't under those conditions? But I love him just the same, if not more. We held each other so tight that first night. We didn't want to let go. Just to hold each other in our arms once again. He was able to celebrate Sharyn 7th birthday. It was a gift Sharyn will never forget. Nor will he.
Sharyn is learning the ways of the wood quite well. She is almost as quiet as I when walking in the wood and she uses the shadows to move almost unseen, I said . . almost. Her lessons with the bow are improving, her grouping is still a bit spread but as her mother, of course I am proud and I may embellish a bit . . . but there is much room for improvement. She can get a squirrel to take a nut from her fingers but in her excitement of doing so, scares the poor thing back up the tree in a heartbeat.
Daren still sits up with her some nights. I can hear them talking downstairs. Some of the things they talk about I want to interrupt, but, he has her best interests at heart and I'm sure she will make up her own mind when the time is right. Sometimes I'll be walking down the hallway and pass by the meeting room and they would be sitting on the bearskin before the fire snacking on some fruit or such, and I'll just stand there watching them together, laughing, teasing and I just smile. Sharyn would look to the door and see me watching them, and she would smile with a small wave and then turn back to teasing her father. She knows where he is ticklish too. She asked once about the darkening sky, and the chill that seems to come with it. We walked outside to the nearby water fall and sat while I told her what what happening in terms she would understand. She was silent for a moment, her faced scrunched up in thought, then she turned to me and said . . . "Thats all right mommy, I'll be your sunshine," and she put this big smile on her face . . . all I could do was hug her and tell her that she already was. I have really been blessed. A beautiful child and a wonderful husband. Back together again.
-
Dear Journal . . .I have been such a fool . . .
Many years ago I traveled with Honora and Kharl to investigate a strange occurrence, from a place that held so much horror and decadence. To put it short, I acquired a special Quill. I thought the deed done, locked it up, put it away, out of sight, out of mind. Out of mind . . . I feel as if I lost it. My hands still shake a bit from my encounter a few days ago. Epheris showed up in Pranzis. Standing next to my horse. “You or the Horse?” He asked brandishing his sword. Not my horse, I replied. He believed me that time. He wanted something. HE would take it in trade for my life. And I said I had no idea what he was talking about. Then he told me and a long buried memory awakened in me, fear, a growing knot within me. I opened my pack to him, he wanted me to search my house . . . we went in, looked about and he threatened to kill the entire family. Sharyn, I’m glad she wasn’t home . . . *Puts a hand to her throat* I can still feel where he put his blade. I tried to get some time to confer with the others, but it was useless. He found the Quill buried deep within the desk. HE said he had other business to attend to . . . I was so emotionally wrecked, I slumped to the floor in exhaustion. Afterwards I saw Rawkwin and told him of the events. Gods I feel like I betrayed everyone.
I did not write anything to you Journal, about this, before for fear of someone finding you and reading about it. I should have taken the thing far from the house and hid it. And as time passed . . .it was forgotten. Sharyn had just turned 8 years a few days ago and she was playing at a friends house . . . Daren was away collecting things . . . I tried staying calm, defiant to his pressuring, I think that is what kept him from getting impatient as we went through the house, but in the end .. . my mind is so confused, ashamed, scared, I’m rambling . . . .
All right . . . the Quill. Whatever is written with it, happens. Anything. And the only way to counteract all that has been done . . . is to kill the author. The person that wrote it. It means we have to find some way of killing Epheris . . . which will be an epic feat in itself.
Gods, what have I done?!
-
Dear Journal,
What . . is . . oh my . . .My mind goes blank. Its still in shock from the events a couple days ago. Demons, Devils, they are the same to me . . . every time I face one something horribly wrong happens. A group of us went out into the Troll Mountains . . searching for another possessed relic for Corius. Who turned out to be another person possessed by a devil like Epheris. They are competing for the collection of 12 items to release those devils into our world I guess. Anyways . .
We found the cloak. And it had found a young girl. She had gone into the Troll mountains to get revenge on the trolls that killed her father using the cloak, of which one of its abilities was invisibility. It was freezing cold, windy, and the snow deep and we found her/devil. The others tried coaxing the cloak away from her, but I think it started going downhill when they told her WHY they needed it. Should have just offered a warmer cloak, food and a warm fire for it. But when our intentions were revealed, the devil came forth wary and would not release the girl in trade for another suitable host. Lin’Da used a giant hand to hold her and they tried ripping the cloak off . .but it seemed as if the devil was torturing the girl to stop us . . and I took my own action. It did not bode well . . .
I walked around to the side of the party, giving myself a side view of the child. Watching to be sure her attention was diverted . . . I raised my bow. I concentrated and mouthed my arrow to seek out just the clasp. A straight shot across her upper chest, to rip it clear from her, and I released. It was like it all went in slow motion. The arrow leapt from my bow straight towards its intended target unerringly. Then it was as if time stopped. She turned her head . . . looked at me . . . I swear I saw red in her eyes . . . and she turned into the arrow with a small grin on her face . . . then normal speed kicked back in . . . the arrow hit the clasp ripping it from one side of the cloak then thudded into her chest, dropping her. I stood there in shock. I yelled to Rawkwin to do something, the others grabbing for the cloak. Jaleel got his hand son it and took off into the woods, others giving chase. Rawkwin was kneeling over the girl’s body. They caught Jaleel, secured the cloak, and after the girl was healed . .we took her home. But the devil ripped her mind apart. In her mind she will always be a little girl even as her body grows old. How can I trust myself again in a similar situation? And I . . shot . .a little . . .girl. A little older than my daughter. I feel so ashamed, afraid, unworthy of my skills . . . I know it was the devil within her . .but still . . to see a child die at the hands of your own weapon . . . And that was mistake number one.
Still in shock over all that, we traveled to put the cloak in a place it could be protected hopefully from the likes of Epheris and Corius. Just outside the building before we entered I had been watching 2 crows. One flew off as we went into the temple. I knew it was going off to tell someone where we were. But even with that information .. they still left the cloak there. Now there are two of the items there , such bait for others. When we came back out . .. one crow still stood in a tree .. watching us intently, probably someone listening through it also. With an acknowledgement from Rawkwin, I sent another seeker arrow towards it followed by three other arrows for good measure. It rained black sooty looking feathers. I should have done the same to the first. That was mistake number two. I was too wrapped up in grief to think straight.
Is that how others are? After such a heart wrenching act of shooting a child . . should I have been callous about it? An ‘Oh Well’ attitude? How do others handle it? The emotion? The pain inside? And if I was to act in such a way . .how would others perceive me? Not in a good light I would think. Daren would tell me . . “Since when do you care about what other people think?” In some ways . .I guess I do. I see and hear how others talk about different people. Around them, they are nice, caring, but when that person is away, the comments are rude and they are made fun of. Of four in particular, I hear all the time. I do not want to be one of that group, nor do I want to seem cruel and heartless. *Sighs*
So, when I got back, I took Sharyn out to the nearest wood and we worked on her tracking and not being seen. Then she practiced at shooting her bow against a rotted stump. But in the back of my mind .. I could still see the shock on that little girls face . . . .
-
Hello Journal . . . just a side note really. Ever since the fall of Pranzis the populace seems . . quiet. Not in the silence sense . . but as in subdued . . beaten. This "Lord Broegar" has put down some edicts that must be followed and they all do so like sheep . . . or slaves. I've spent alot of time since the fall here in 'Prantz' as its now called, and it is really kind of depressing. And now even probably more so at the destruction of the temple of Toran. I've seen asmany drow and wicked looking spiders up here recently than I have in my excursions into the underdark. But there have been whispers, and I keep my ears open . . .
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Well Journal, time really seems to fly. I have been keeping myself pretty busy, mostly with crafting. Haven't done much adventuring of late, unless you count taking young children out to the woods, its quite the learning experience. *She smiles* Sharyn will be 9 years old soon even though she tries to act like a teenager and I wonder where all that time went? And on those occasions, I pick you up, and sit before the fire, and slowly page through the many entries and look over the different items left within your pages. Time goes by so fast when you are not looking. Sharyn's movements through the woods is getting better, her aim with the bow is . . . improving . . . Her knowledge of the elven, dwarven and animal language is doing beautifully.
I was out gathering corn a week ago, or trying to in Fort Velensk, and I noticed that everytime I got to the stalks, they were already picked clean. Then I noticed an invisible person collecting outside of Port Hampshire. I figured, he needed it more than I, so I let him to it. About that time, a large ant spotted me that he had disturbed and it came after me. My first arrow imbued with flame, toasted it and my next couple arrows put it out of its misery. I got cut a couple times and the invisble man (Introduced afterwards as Rain Darsius) healed my small wounds. He asked about my fire display and when explained he said he had thought about becoming an Arcane Archer himself, but he was too busy at times to pursue it, but the biggest hurdle he couldn't make was finding someone to tell him about it or tell him what was need to get there. To make it short, Ferrit and Kyle showed up, the corn was for them, Rain now had time. Along the way to his house in Krandor, I found that he isn't really much different than I. We both have ranger and wizard abilities, we both have dire wolves for companions and we both have the same familiar. We sat and talked for a long time about Arcane Archer abilities and what one should know to train properly. But I had to let him go as his twin 6 month old's were probably waking up and were going to need a lot of attention. They are so cute.
I have taken Sharyn with me a few times to the kitchens in Lorindar to help me make pies and meats, and Ireally enjoy the slow rides with her, she is so open with me and we just talk the trip away. And upon the return trip when we start hitting the city limits, I walk the horse while she rides and hands me foodstuffs that we made to hand out to the poor and the hungry. You should have seen the confusion on her face when I placed 2 coins at the bottom of a pie before baking it. Just wait and see, I told her. When she saw a poor mother hand out pieces of pie to her children and saw the coins there in the bottom and the tears of joy streaming down the womans face, Sharyn smiled and had one of her own tears form before she wiped it away. She looked at me with such pride in her eyes and I just smiled back. Now she always wants to help. No one has said anything to me about doing this, so I will continue doing so.
One day I was walking to the craft house with a load of mohogany for arrow crafting and saw a bunch of men and women crowded around a small fire. They said nothing and smiled nodding thanks when I dropped two large branches upon thier fire. Sorry Yard. Thats three less scroll papers your not going to get.
It is pretty rough looking here in Pranzis. I've decided to make this my main home where I can help these poor folk. They need someone to help them as the local governments are undergoing many changes and they just don't seem to have the manpower or the time to care for everyone. Oh, I do not know all that is really going on behind the scenes, but I see what I see and will do what I can to help. But it is late and I should do Reverie and finish before Daren gets up, well, that is if I can tune out the snores . . .
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Dear Journal,
Today, like many other days, you make plans to do something but then a bird lands upon your shoulder and changes everything. Sometimes a good thing, sometimes . . . an amazing thing.
I arrived in Pranzis early this evening, and I was going through my chests to take some mahogany to the crafthall and make some assorted items for donation when I heard a tapping on my door, not a knock, but a tapping. Upon opening it, a very flustered bird flapped its wings in my face as it landed on my shoulder. Honora needed my help at Exodus Stonecutters house . . . She was there with Ash Willow. I made haste down the street and after Ihit the door once with my knuckles, Honora had the door open and was ushering me in . .
Ash is in labor with child! She said partially with nervousness. I never asked if she had any experience with deliveries before, but she had someplace important to be at and didn't want to leave Ash alone. So I told her I would stay. And it also appeared that this was Ash's first time also. So quickly looking about the room and a few questions later, I had asessed the situation and within a few hours new life filled the room. Things were a bit tense on the third child as I saw feet attempting to come through first, but Ash stayed steady enough for things to turn around and it all came out fine.
I must say though that I believe I was in the presence of something not heard of in the lives of elves. For Ash had TRIPLETS! Something that is so rare. If this portent is of something great to be happening, I hope the children do themselves well as they grow and mature.
Nepp, her husband, apparently was away, so as she rested, I went out and brought back some milk for the children and some sillk cloth to wrap them and keep them warm. I know she will do well by the children, though I do worry that three babies will wear on her. The feedings, changes, diapers, milk, clothing . . . I hope Nepp will be there to help . . . I recall as if it was yesterday . . and I only have Sharyn . . they have three . . oh my . . I offered any help I could give and was very sincere about it, all she had to do was ask . . but the experience has quite worn me out and I think I'll go into Reverie a bit early this evening . . . Now I know how Daren felt when he delivered Sharyn . . . to watch life spring forth from the womb. Now I have seen it from both perspectives and I feel blessed. What a wonderful feeling . .
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Dear Journal,
I had a most distressing yet confusing dream, if it can be called that. I travelled with others along a "Dream Path" of sorts fighting with dwarves, attending a wedding, and playing with children til I came to what I thought was the end of the road and stood before a mirror. At first it was cloudy, but as I stood before it, a change slowly occured. I stood there looking at myself. My reflection stood proud and tall, my bow and an almost empty quiver of arrows on my back. I looked as if I was a conqueror, a great leader. But then behind my reflection, the background came slowly into view. There behind me at my feet and spread out far and wide was a swath of bodies bloating and rotting in the hash sun that beat down. I could see the heat waves rising from the ground and the corpses, carrion birds circled in the sky. Then I looked back at my reflection, she seemed to be staring directly into my eyes and she spoke . . . "Am I you?"
In a whisper with tear rimmed eyes, I said "No." It couldn't be. There was such mass destruction and the look on my face . . . That can not be me. I will fight for my life, my family and for my friends, but what I saw there . . . was . . . Oh, I do not know how to describe it. I do not know if the dead there were friend or foe. If it was friend, I would sooner give my own life than to have thiers taken. If it was foe . . . Blood thirst? Is that what I saw in her eyes? Was the dead to represent a path of destruction and death I have left in my wake of waking life? I am so confused . . . but I had to note this down, every detail. Maybe something will come to me later. I'll leave space below to insert any thoughts at a later date. But now . . *Shake her head with sadness* . . . perchance to dream again.
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Dear *Yawns* Journal,
Yes, I'm a bit tired, haven't gotten much reverie of late. I keep seeing the dream over and over, but nothing new has come of it. Maybe I'm dewelling too much over it. I'll just put it aside for now . . .
Rain sent me a bird yesterday. Apparently he and a group wereout adventuring and looking for supplies for thier guild and could not find the rye they needed, probably for rods, and the note asked if I knew where they could find some. I sent back a reply to have them meet me in Saudria (They were in North Fort). Well, Rain read it wrong and came himself to Saudria (Chuckles) then we waited for the others to arrive. Passing through the oaisis and surrounding areas, Rain fell to the giants. I think he was standing up on the rock where he fell to be the same height as they, but they knocked him from his perch, dead.
Afterwards we stopped at Dalos lake and we trained a bit more on his Aracane Archer skills. From the cliff above I had him concentrate on a school of trout far below. After burning through many arrows, and a small boost of a cats grace spell, he was able to reel one in. He has the ability, now to see if he can find it within himself.
Afterwards I invited him to the house, showed him the remodeled work. He was a bit amazed at seeing I had a working oven, he thought it was like the ones in the inns, but I had shown him how it worked and he thought that was better than building a campfire everynight. Then Goldwin sent me a bird (Came down the chimney, poor thing) telling me he had the upgrade for my yew hunter bow finished. So Rain left, he portalled back to Mistone and I went to meet Goldwin.
He was talking with Lia, who said she was looking for adventurers to follow her into the abyss, she is going after something there, not sure what. But she asked if I would join her. I told her I would think about it. I have heard horror stories of the place and I am not sure if it is something I wish to venture into yet, but I would like to do some research on the place first before giving any acceptance.
I have been cooking more of late and handing it out here and there in Prantz. I have started collecting coin for the rebuild of the homes that was destroyed in the war. I can see that it is going to be a long, long road . . . . there is so much to do. *Yawns again* I think I'll slip into a deep reverie journal . . . I'll leave the dreams for another time.
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Dear Journal,
What an Interesting day yesterday turned out to be. The Lich that has been plauging us for the past few years has finally been laid to rest. Permanently! And it was Daren himself who laid the final blow! It turned out the Lich was separated into two halves by our intrusion in what we thought was the destruction of the orb. You might say, a good side and a bad side. We reunited the good side with his past love to reconcile differences qand in return, he gave his life to help put the halves back together again. Basically we killed them both, they joined in the phalactery, and that, we destroyed. But the orb is still out there . . . somewhere.
The party was quite relieved that it was all complete and we all went happily to our homes . . . that is, except for the trouble we ran into. Daren was walking, I on my horse as we strode through the last of the Serpent Mountains. I summoned Glacia, my familiar, to cast an improved invisibility for me to pass undetected past the clan of bugbears that resides atop the mountain. Daren had cast a greater sanctuary upon himself. Well, me being on horseback, I passed into the Blackhills first and waited for Daren to catch up. As he rounded the last bend into my sight, he had two of the bugbears chasing his pink-colored self and he was bleeding and hurt so bad I knew that another blow from them would lay him low. MY spell was just wearing off as they passed me, so I drew my bow and let fly at the one towering over Daren. As it turned to me, I fired at the second then turned and drew them away far enough for Daren to get to relative safety and heal. It was a good plan until I realized they were not going to give up on me. I urged Symphony into a run, and with the training I gave her, we sprinted ahead, stopped, fired a number of shots, and continued doing so around the hill until I met back up with Daren, who by that time had healed and protected himself . . . but the bugbears wanted nothing with him. Daren stopped one, but the other shoved past him still coming for me . . . so I continued leading him on with arrows taunting him. I could then hear Daren yell for me to turn around and bring him back, but at that moment, I had taken careful aim and plunged a final arrow into its head, leaving it lying in the dirt. Dinner for the firedrake that resides atop the hill there.
Afterwards, he complimented me on how I handled the situation and I replied . .if it wasn't for Symphony, I would not have been able to stay ahead of the creatures. He scoffed, but I knew they could run faster than I on foot. I was proud to have completed such a maneuver as he said, but Daren seems to have no patience with horses. I guess that maybe I was deserving of all his praise, but I know I have to give some of that to Symphony, she had the speed. I brushed her down good and gave her some oats and an apple for her hard work, then Daren and I headed of to bed after the long day we put in. It was quite a while before I slipped into Reverie . . . .
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Dear Journal, Today I met up with Rain again on his training to become an Arcane Archer. He has the drive, the gumption, an eagle eye and after a few hard lessons learned these past months, the intelligence of its uses when travelling with a party. His marksmanship has improved greatly . . . especially after I had him shooting fish from up upon a cliff side. He was frustrated at first, but after some calm instruction he actually pulled a few from Dalos Lake. Heh. But today he really surprised me. We were fending off Golems in the Berhagens and he was slowed. And they easily caught up to him, but as I kept thier attention long enough for him to pull away, he set up in a good area and helped me turn them into rubble. He put himself into a safe zone and still helped. We were a good team out there and I would fight beside him any day. With his combination of spells and ranger abilities, I think he would make a great Arcane Archer, and I told him so. Later in the eve I went to Michaelis trial and he has quite the task set up before him. It looks as if we'll be making a pretty rough trip and he will need more help. I'll ask Daren to see if he can help. I'll ask others but the final decision is up to Mich. The party will have to be well balanced if he is to succeed.
So, other than that .. not too much else has happened. Sharyn's 9th Birthday is coming up soon. She is becoming quite adept at the bow now . . . she skins her own hides and has tried her hand at tailoring. She doesn't do too well at some parts, but I I help out when I see it is getting to her. I just hate to see her fail, but then, it is also a way of learning. We still cook together and hand out meals to the homeless wandering in and outside of Pranzis, though this new Lord says that the problem is not there, makes me wonder. Sure, the town may look clean, but something just isn't right. I just can't put my finger on it. But if things start looking like they might get . .difficult . . . I will send Sharyn back to Blackford. I'm sure Uncle Garnet will love to watch over her while I look into things.
*She puts the quill into the bottle of ink and leaves it there and leans back in the chair. She stares at what she has just written and thinks about the people of Pranzis/Prantz. She thinks she should keep a sharper eye out.She stretches, puts her journal away and rises fom the chair and walks to the window gazing out at the dark-grey sky and sighs* I really miss the stars . . . *She murmers and quietly goes into the bedroom and glides carefully under the sheets as not to disturb her snoring husband. *She looks at him and smiles, then leans over kissing him on the cheek. His snores temporarily stop, long enough for her to fall into Reverie.*
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I attended the supposed hanging in Prantz. I hung to the rear watching Boergar and his helpers. It went as expected. As I expected. Not creating martyrs but making himself look like to be everyones best friend. If he was that just and forgiving, why did he kill many people and storm the city? It really angered me to watch and see the peoples responses . . . matter of fact, I'm still angry now. Too disgusted to write anything else . . . *She drops the quill into the inkwell, slams the journal shut and walks off into the kitchen to fix some dinner.*
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Dear Journal, Where has the time gone? Boergar has ingratiated himself into the local populaces graces, though something seems to be missing. I can't quite put my finger on it. Daren has been quite busy of late. I don't see too much of him, at least not as much as I would like, but there are others out there that require his Goddess' ministrations and I can't deny them that. At least he has a calling to follow. Mine is my quickly growing daughter who just turned 11 years. She has become quite proficient with the shortbow and is trying the longbow now. Her steps have quietened greatly in the wood. She was able to reach out and touch a deer though it bolted. She is able to get close enough to squirrels to feed them, but the deer are still a bit skittish. She is doing so well. She recognizes many tracks and can follow most unless they run over hard ground. She travels with me on occasion these days, though I do summon Kreeg and Glacia to keep a wary eye out for any dangers and we all still have fun. I do not go anywhere I can handle on my own with her so as to ensure her safety. And yes, she gets bored easily but I keep the different excursions short and varied until she matures a bit more. *She looks about the empty rooms, listening to Sharyn's breathing as she sleeps and wonders how Daren is faring. Is he safe? Is he eating or working himself into starvation as usual? Starvation . . . she thinks about those homeless outside and in the surrounding areas of Prantz. She should rise early and take out more food to them, some blankets too, the air is a bit chilly in the mornings. She sighs and sets the quill down, closes the journal and puts it away. She walks quietly into Sharyns room, gives her a kiss on the forehead, then crosses the hall into her own empty room. She climbs into bed, hugs his pillow and slowly falls into a meditative state.*
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Dear Journal,
Things went well, (I hope) with meeting the Prantz Council. So now I am currently waiting on thier decision. Yard and Daren were there for support, of which I greatly appreciate, but I did get a feeling from the council members of a reluctance to my proposal. I just don't understand why they don't want to help the folk there as Lord Boergar stated he wanted to help at the hanging. I sopke with a few farmers today about setting up temporary shelters on thier property while thier homes are being rebuilt. At least this way, those staying in the shelters can help out in the fields and in the re-building.
I was in the Wild Surge today and this . . woman . . . walked in with her ox. I saiid something to her about animals being around food and such, and she made it sound as if I was harping on her about it, even though I was polite the whole time. Anyways . .
Goldwin has asked for some cats Grace Scrolls. Made 7 so far, I like a good challenge . . oh .. someone is at the door . . .
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*She yawns and stretches as she reaches for the quill and dips it into the ink. She pauses for a moment over the parchment, thinking, then begins to write*
Dear Journal,
It is late, Daren snores in the next room and Sharyn sleeps quietly so I thought I would take a quick moment to note the past few days events. I have been training Rain Darsus for some time in the matters of becoming an Arcane Archer and he has been doing so well. Then, through a montage of incidents Rain was asked by who he called "The Pheniox"; to, I guess, redeem the barbarian tribe he had some sort of connection to, by destroying a number of large worms plaguing thier lands. Now I can not go into detail on alot of this, as it has to do with personal informatin on Rain's part and I do not like to probe where I was not invited, but I offered my assistance in the matter and with good friends we stayed the course and completed the appointed task. Rain seemed much calmer afterwards and still fostered hope that family members, previously thought lost, may still be alive. During all this, his skills with Archery against the beasts and diplomacy with the tribes, had shown me that he is most able to carry on as an Arcane Archer. So to this end, to show him how proud I was, I passed on to him my Mahogany Longbow of the Hunter that I increased its power mightly twice over. It sat in a chest collecting dust and I thought what better way for it to continue to serve in Rain's hands.
On another matter and as a reminder, Sharyn will be turning 12 in a few weeks. I must think of something different for her birthday gift this year.
And still no word from the Prantz Council members as of yet.
*She sets the quill in the ink bottle, leaves the pages open to dry overnight and climbs back into bed next to Daren who murmered in his sleep at her movements. *She reaches out and moves the hair out of his eyes and kisses him lightly on the cheek before snuggling in close, holding him and slips slowly into Reverie with a smile on her face.*
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Dear Journal,
Well, the past few days have been interesting, but there were only a couple things of note. First Sharyn turned 12, oh she is growing up so fast. Where does the time go? Daren and I took her out on a picnic and during that, she asked when she would be able to start adventuring with us. I just looked at Daren knowing the types of creatures we face and knew that it was something she shouldn't be facing, but then he gave me a knowing wink and told her thta she couldn't go on all of our treks, but we would take her on small ones from time to time, maybe starting in goblin territory. Well, she just beamed at the thought and that was pretty much the topic of her conversation the rest of the day. I'll have to teach her how to make her bow stronger and make a stiffer leather armor. I must say, even if she handles things well, I'll still be a nervous wreck. I'll have to make sure Kreeg stays close to her. My little girl . . .
And secondly . . . I was talking with Rain the other day and he was telling me about the guild he was in. He said he had no one really skilled in Foodcraft and Elgon was thier tinkerer (May he rest in Peace) and after Itold him of my various skills he wondered if I would be interested in joining, with his guild family's acceptance also. I mostly wander about and craft for myself and maybe an order here or there, basically crafting just to increase my knowledge. I wasn't expecting to be accepted so quickly. Most of the Guild family are already great friends and a few, and hopefully new friends for those I just met. It looks to be alot of fun.
Still no word from the Prantz City Council. A few of the local farmers I spoke to earlier have sectioned out an area for the shelters to go up upon approval. They have such faith in me, I hope thatI can live up to that. Well, I should get back to cleaning up the house . . . spring cleaning and such. Daren has so much stuff . . . heh . . . so do I.
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Dear Journal,
Well, it's been a busy year, a few things of note to mark.
Joined up with a group to look for some 'seeds'. not sure exactly what they do, but from what I have heard they are to be held and used by druids and bards. But then there are churches that are demanding thier followers to bring these seeds in to them. I know of three folk who are being accused of treachery because they did not turn the seed into thier church. Power and politics . . . when will these people ever learn? Anyways, this group I went out with, we split up into two groups. Mine was to open the way safely to seeds that were known to be in the Firesteep mountains, so that others behind us could safely look for the seeds. THAT was a fiasco. They pushed ahead of us a number of times, and one young man kept falling. Brisbane was in charge of the group to help find the seeds and I think Ozy was doing the same. One never knows with him what is on his agenda. So, we are deep into the mountains and next thing we know, Brisbane and Ozy are gone. With Brisbane I would expect that. She has a bad habit of getting upset and walking out on her party when I have traveled with her before. I am surprised that others continue to let her lead them. As for Ozy, we caught up with him later, but just before a Balor or some such appeared and got the last seed we were looking for. Maybe if we had all stayed together as a group, we might have been able to get it, but maybe it wasn't important enough to Brisbane and Ozy that we work together to accomplish our goal. We broke up shortly after that and nothing more was done on it to my knowledge.
I was heading north through the outskirts of Port Hampshire when a dwarf went running past me with 2 griffons on his tail. Never thought I would see a dwarf run from such an easy challenge. Two things went through my mind at that moment. One, possibly his life being lost and second, if he was able to evade them, they would catch another unwary traveller. Not good form on the dwarfs part I must say, so instantly I drew my bow and launched an arrowtoasting a few feathers bringing them both down. His only explination was he was in a hurry to meet up with someone in Fort Velensk.
Found myself in Point Harbor with Rain and a few others. Went to Bear Island for some minerals. When we got back, a shade or wraith of some type appeared. Basically it saidthe ritual wasn't completed. Not sure if it was someone being tortured, or if it was an evil ritual or what? But we wandered about trying to figure it out, but the thing disappeared and it could not give us a direction nor a place to actually look. So, the others all gave up and left.
A couple weeks later a group went through Hurm and apparently disturbed a Black Dragon or two. In retaliation, the dragons spread some type of disease. Most of the guild I am now a part of was affected and they stayed within thier homes under quarrantine until a cure is found. Good thing they didn't come into more contact with others or it could have really spread.
Walked into the area north of Hlint and found a young woman sitting almost naked near the gate. She wouldn't speak. I combed the area, to be sure she wouldn't be bothered by anyone, but shortly afterwards Iwent back to check on her and she was dead. The local church refused to hear my calls for help, and when Iarrived back to the body, Ifion, Daren andI watched the body disappear. Most odd.
I heard from Daniel Poetr that Barions wife, Sa'Kura has passed from this world. That poor man has seen more than his share of loss. I went to his house for a wake and offered Daren's and my condolances. Now he is left to raise his daughter on his own, but with all the good friends he has, there will be plenty of support.
Found a way where I can help Daren do something now instead of him always helping me. He has started scribing clerical spells onto parchment. So, there are alot of ingredients to collect of which I have started doing . . . he has seemed quite . . lethargic? . . of late. He disappears at times and when he is about he rarely wants to adventure about. I think he has felt the bite of the Soul Mother of late. Her grip on him has been getting tighter andI think he worries about leaving us. I so wish I could help there.
Heard nothing more from the ruling council in Prantz about my petition. They are so slow. But through others I have heard some interesting news . . .
And lastly, a most important occasion is here. My baby girl has turned 13. A teenager now. We have taken her out as she asked and thank Daren for putting stoneskin on her. The goblins trained thier arrows mostly upon her and that put quite the scare into her. A good lesson learned hereI think. She didn't get hurt much, but feeling the arrows hitting her and bouncing off had quite the effect. From that, she has concentrated deeper into her training. She was quite proud when she found one goblin with one of her arrows in its chest. Of course as was I. I think she has a better understanding now of what her parents go through when we travel and that makes her much more careful. She can now get close enough to deer without them running off, and they even take food from her hands. I could never quite get that far and it makes me proud to see her progressing better than I did at her age.
So, the year has been busy, the sky is still cloudy all the time, dragon sightings are numerous and life still goes on.
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Dear Journal,
First, my apologies for my writing to appear hastily written as the days events were a bit infuriating, but this is somethingI want my daughter to learn from. And the day went as such . . .
I just had to write the occurances that happened yesterday, not only to remind me of the types of people out there, but also in the hopes that Sharyn will learn something from this.
First, I was asked to help assist make a run into the Haven Mines for some Iron and Platinum. There were a few folks there that were sort of . . . green . . . to adventuring. Daniel Poetr headed up the group and things went pretty well. Afterwards, Daniel left and the .. green . . folk wanted to go for topaz near Fort Velensk.
On our way there, we passed through the battle fens. Instead of following the wall to Velensk, one person stealthed his way though the middle of the swamp stirring up the locals. Someone alsohad a summoned creature following us. Then I got filled with quarrels as I had the lead going though the area. Looking back where they were coming into the swamp area, they had spread out instead of following the wall. There were lizards everywhere. Just as my life force was about to run dry, I was able to stagger into Fort Velensk, someone started healing me, but that was counteracted by quarrels from 3 lizards that followed me into the area. I whipped my bow back around and filled them with arrows while being healed at the same time. When we finally all gathered back together, I was NOT happy.
So then we went on to the cave to the north. As they prepared spells to enter the cave, they got the attention of a band of bandits, which they didn't seeem to notice or care about and were going into the cave anyways. I didn't want to be followed in and get pinned. So, I cleaned up and saw more looking down on us from above. I told the group to stay off to the side, I would take care of them so as not to waste thier spells and potions, but as I was taking care of business, here they come. So after they brought down the whole rest of the camp upon our heads and we cleaned up the area, they had to rest and heal once again.
Inside the cave, we took out the first two sentry posts with no problem, but thenI guess the scout wasn't working fast enough and they started pushing ahead, then the ogres must have organized and we were being hit from three sides, everyone scattered. Couldn't form up and protect each other. I saw fireballs taking out single targets. Seeing that everyone was running, I let fly a hail of arrows and got most of the ogres attention and drew them all to me, leading them on a merry chase through the cave to the entrance, leading a number of them outside into a nice ambush. I buffed a bit and went back in for the two adventurers left inside. We took out the 4 ogres standing guard and joined with thier friends.
No, I was not happy, it could have turned out much worse. They were impatient and quite unorganized compared to the run through the Haven Mines. many of them could have been killed so easily. I guess some folks don't value thier life so much. Maybe someone should set up some classes for new adventurers. Luckliy we had no deaths, but if things had gotten worse . . .
. . . Like in the Sielwood where the Forest Render lurks . . . took 2 folk back to thier stone there after the last fiasco . . and saw five grave stones all in a row.
Sharyn, Your father and I will teach you combat strategies and common sense in battle and from situations like this hopefully it will save you alot of pain. Just a lesson to be learned. ~ Mother
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Well Journal . . its been interesting and for you Sharyn, lessons learned.
I was travelling backthrough the serpent mountains with Rain and Daniel as they were escorting me from Dalanthar and we reached the last mountain to climb where the bugbears guard the mountain pass. Rain and Daniel were invisible, I was stealthing my way along . . (Glacia my familliar got excited over a dire boar and wasted my spell) . . and I was half way up the mountain when I heard a "Hello";. I saw Hawklin speeding past me under whatI percieved to be a haste spell. As I watched him go past, I saw the bugbears sweep in behind him, following. Great, I thought to myself. I got over the pass and made it to the Black Hills where a bugbear stood guard. I saw Rain nearby and he indicated when asked in sign how many there were and he said he saw only the one. I, being on horseback (yes, as usual. She has kept me out of harms reach so many times) quietly put a little distance between us and fired away, leading it on . . . I trotted back a bit and fired more, Symphony well trained in the tactic, then Rain appeared behind shooting, thus confusing itand we dropped it.I wandered about the area, making sure there were no others. I guess it wasn't good enough. No sooner did I make it to Corax Lake, that I got ambushed. With just a last tiny bit of lifeblood in my veins, Symphony was able to pull me away out of reach. I ran far enough away but within bowshot and put it in the dirt. I could have strangled Hawklen for that . . . what if it was someone younger or not as sturdy that was ambushed. I confronted him later and he had the "Oh Well"; type attitude. "Stuff happens"; he says . . I wanted to stuff something all right . . . but luckly some giants nearby interrupted us and he left as I turned my attention to my friends and the battle before me. Rude, inconsiderate . . Grrrrr.
Been to the Rift a couple times. The last time was a ladies day event. Lin'Da, Alantha, Angela and I. It was fun, but tough . . . I'm sure I didn't do half as much as one of them, but it was a great experience. Now I know them from dealings and speaking briefly with on occasion, but I do not know them that well. Its like . . I do not know what to say. I felt like I was going to a newcity and met new people. Maybe if we go on more trips, if I get invited back, things will get better.
It has been quite some time, but I put aside some of my archer training and worked on my Rangering abililties that I was able to advance my skills there. And through that I was able to stretcha bit of my time with the Soul Mother after much contemplation.That above all else makes the journey more satisfying giving me mor etime to spend with my family. Family . . .
Sharyn will be 14 years old soon. She is a young woman now. And she seems to be finding her own way. I think she will take up the Rangering, following in my footsteps, butI am not sure if anything else. She does enjoy the archery, but lately she has taken a fancy to listening to the bards spin thier tales either in the Freelanceers or the Arms. She sure does like Freldo's stories most when she can find him telling tales and Kat's wonderful music. She travels with me to the crafthall now, watching me work, though I do not let her touch any of the equipment. SomedayI tell her. She just smiles and nods. She does well with the animals now . . . she can tame a deer or a hawk. And her skills with a bow have improved. I am so proud of her. She babysits for friends and neighbors and is good with little children, its good to see her with other children.
And the other family . . . The Guild I am in consider themselves a family. Well, the family took quite a beating today . .andI felt helpless, thoughI tried. We went into the Forest Giant caves after minerals. Things went well until we hit the lowest level. First a spell of some sort hit Ferrit and dropped her in her tracks. We backed away after she was sent to her bindstone and we helped her get back to her stone. She suggested we could still salvage the trip by finishing gem collecting. Well, it appeared the Giants were waiting on us. Most of the party were turned into pincushions. Iwas able to invis myself with a potion when things turned bad. I tried saving Kyle, but he passed just asI was ready to pour a healing potion into his mouth . . Then I went to Daniel and I was able to revive him and he drank an invisibility potion and headed out. Then when I turned about, poor Rain took a mighty blow thatI found out later that the soul mother took another strand from him. One more and she keeps him. It was not a good day.
Well, it is late and I have been waiting on Daren . . I think he will be late again getting in, so I will go tuck Sharyn in and meditate until he arrives.
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Dear Journal,
Well, I finally heard from the Prantz council, though the news was both good and bad. Just to bring you up to speed, firstI will say that a few things will be left unsaid for personal reasons so, that being said . . .
Honora, Daren and I heard about a trial happening in Prantz. We sat there through two of them. The first, a woman was being tried for theft of goods from a supply wagon. She claimed the items were hers sent from a relative of who had ... passed away. She was to be sentenced 10 years in a work camp. She had 3 children who would have become wards of the city (Boergar) thoughI spoke up and offered to take the children. I was asked if I had a license to operate a daycare/orphanage of which I said no and the replied I would have to obtain such if I wanted to operate such business. I said I would apply.
The second was a man, a previous royal guardsman for the royal family of Prantz before its fall. He served for many many years. He said that we was taking folks to the grave site of the royal memeber he served and with shovels plant many flowers about the area. The guards there stated he was inciting a riot, the shovels, weapons. He was sentenced to hang.
I found out shortly afterwards that the man was hung publically. The woman mysteriously disappeared with her children,and was a cause of frustration to the city guard. I recieved a notice from the council denying my request for shelters to be built for the war-torn inhabitants of the area in and outside of Prantz. But in turn I was granted a license to operate an orphanage in Prantz of which I purchased a building and is now known formally as The House of Hope. It needs to be cleaned up a bit, furniture placed, reapairs done, a bit of paint here and there andI should be ready to fully operate soon. I have collected some funding to take care of most of the costs, but I think I can swing it.
Sharyn is so full of ideas and she wants to help, she keeps tossing ideas out to me from out of the blue (Then thinks of the gray skies). So, now I must think up ways to let others know about the orphanage for adoption opportunities and to collect donations for monthly operation fees and upkeep, food, clothing and the such . . . most of which I can make up myself, so journal, it is time I laid this quill to rest for a short time
*She cleans the quill, stoppers the ink bottle and fans at the written words to dry at the big desk in the corner. She leans back in her chair in the low candle light and ponders.
//OOC Personal Reminder ... many details left out as such information may be hazardous/incriminating to the family's well being if this journal was read by the wrong persons.
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Dear Journal,
Its been a while, but the work never seems to end. The construction of the orphanage has finally been completed, the stores built up and children filling the halls already. The building took quite a bit of work as it replaced a merchant shop that had been partially destroyed in the takeover of the city, but as I know woodcrafting quite well, it was just a matter of time before it was all restored. Sharyn, bless her soul, went out and collected many foodstuffs to help fill the food cellarsplus skins and cotton for us to turn into blankets and clothing. I built many beds and other furnitures for the rooms and now I'd like to find some toys for the different ages.
AFter the dust had settled down and everything settled into its routine, I took the children out for some exercise and enjoyment when the weather was halfway decent. Watching Sharyn with one of the little ones one day brought back memories of myself cradling her. She saw me staring at her off in my own little world and she tossed a small doll into my lap breaking me from my reverie. When I looked up at her we both laughed. I think she would make a wonderful mother someday ... someday ... no time soon I hope. She just turned 15 years not too long ago. She is getting some of her fathers attitude too I believe. She gets defiant at somethings and I know she is hiding some things from us. I have been watching her somewhat and she seems to spendsome time with a young man that stays here at the orphanage. He is quick with his hands and moves like a spider. Quite the sham artist I think. He also bears watching.
Speaking of watching, I think I have been spending way too much time with the orphanage and not much at all with Daren. Between my work and his, we do not seem to spend as much time together lately. I'm going to have to remedy that. I'll need to get more help for the assorted duties at the orphanage. Honora said she would help, maybe a couple more. Handling 20 - 25 children is quite a busy task. Keeping them fed and clothed AND occupied is not easy. Maybe I can find a bard that can help with the entertainment. Between storytelling and songs that in itself should give thier overactive imaginations alot to do.
In other things ... the guild appears to be doing well, though they do not get many orders in the fields they hired me for, but I do my best. I achieved a new level of understanding in Tinkering the other day and it just makes me want to press on with with it. There is so much more there I would like to do, but it will require more dedication. Rain Darsus was visited by the Soul Mother a ninth time a while back. So he has held back on many of his outings. I could see the hurt in his eyes everytime the other guild members went out, but now, he has found a new way of joining them and helping at the same time. He and Kyle got horses and Rain seems quite enamored with his.
Been doing a bit of traveling with a few others and found myself in Kings Landing with a bit of a mystery. But there is still much to learn. Other than that, not much else has been happening. Time to go check on the children before bedtime.
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Dear Journal,
Things have been progressing quite well with the House of Hope. I am almost full and can hold only 25 children at a time. I think now that things are getting into a routine that I should make a post about adoption. Kyle and Ferrit are both quite helpful. He has been making beds (More sturdy than what the furniture merchants sell) and she has been donating skins for clothing and blankets. Lex'or has donated food and a few others have donated coin.
On the children side of things ... Honora has been teaching the older kids some self defense moves and discipline from her teachings as a monk. And Freldo wishes to make a few instruments and wants to teach the childrensome music and song and hopefully something educational. I myself have been taking them out on occasion but most of my time has been on the rebuilding of different parts of the building ... and watching Sharyn.
She has been spending time with a young man who will not give his name and seems to have some rougish tendacies. She has snuck away with him at different times just to roam the city or the ouskirts, with me following of course. He seems a bit enamored with her so he keeps out of trouble, but I notice that he is teaching her things. As long as she doesn't get up to no good ... well, I hope we have taught her better than that, but with his influence ...
Other than that ... not much else happening .. I had a bit of time to write ...
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Dear Journal,
Yes, its been quite a while since I last entered anything. The House of Hope has kept me quite occupied That and a few other things but that is neither here nor there. There have been many changes going on and so many things to do, Honora felt I needed a break and sent me home. Heh ... gotta love that woman. So what do I do? I come home, cook a bit, organize the crates and end up sitting at Daren's desk writing. Yes, Sharyn is out with that young man again. Since she turned sixteen a few months ago she has been trying to assert her independence. She gets that stubborn streak from her father who seems to be around less and less of late. Not sure what it is he is doing .... church business I suppose. He has been working at something but I haven't got wind of it yet. I followed Sharyn out with the little rogue a few times and I think I have nothing to worry about. Her actions and reactions tell me she at least knows what she is doing and keeping herself from getting into any trouble. I think he got her too close to danger one time that put quite a scare into her. She has picked up a few of his tricks and is becoming quite deft with her fingers. I do not like where this may lead but I know I can not run her life ... then it wouldn't be hers. I hope that any values I tried to instill in her are still there. I watched him try to move in on her, pull her into a kiss that she obviously didn't want. I was about to show myself but she used her knee to keep him place. I could almost feel his pain as he crumbled to the ground. Then she gave him a piece of her sharp tongue and her fathers attitude. I left at that point asI saw she has everything under control.
I received a missive from Mich. I met up with him in Haven Castle and he had an item for me. A yew longbow. It seems Kharl Drake has been taken to the Soul Mother permanently and that he wished I have his bow. I didn't know what to say really, I just stood there fingering the bow thinking back. Kharl was my guide when I first arived on these shores, he showed me many things. He was also the one that introduced Daren and I together, though it was not done intentionally. And we stayed friends. I will miss him.
Other than that, nothing new really happening. Just busy busy busy. So busy ... Oh I did speak with Daren about something. In less than 2 years we will have been married 20 years. He agreed to my thoughts on renewing our marraige vows. I just wish Ayla was here to perform the ceremony. But we have time to think about it more. Well, I should get a bit of reverie done. A vacation would be nice ... a break ... right ... *She chuckles as she puts the quill and journal away.*
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Journal,
I sit here quill poised, but unsure of where to begin or what to write. World wise it has become a darker place, and more dangerous. Dragons are being spotted again, rumors reach my ears they are coming out of hiding now that Blood has been defeated. Teskies begin to clear, oh how I have missed seeing the stars. Most prevalent of the dragon sightings of late is the Black Dragon that lives near Hurm. It is one thing to sneak past orcs, gnolls, bugbears and madmen ... but a dragons eye-sight and hearing is so much keener. So why do I go on about this? Sharyn, my baby girl is no longer a baby. 19 years, plus and so independent. Yeah, like her mother, I have to smile at that.
Work at the orphanage has kept us all pretty busy. Freldo teaching music and telling his tales, Honora teaching discipline and self defense when she isn't working for the city, though I think her term there is over, not sure. Myself, I arrange outings when I am not ... repairing walls, furniture, the roof, gathering and cooking food, mending clothes and bed linens, cleaning rooms (Though some of the children help) getting candles, hauling water and when not doing all that, I join up with friends to help keep the country in some kind of order. Well, except for our last jaunt across Alindor and that business with the Barons and baroness'.
Why is it when someone wants an opinion on a magical problem, they base thier decision on answers from those that know little about the weave? The others put one portal into another andcaused a great rift, a rip in the weave, which threw us into another plane and the only way we could get back out alive was to accept to do something for Mist in the future. That there is what makes me deny to follow any God or Goddess. They are so cold-hearted, greedy and self centered, all they acre about is thier own goals and to the bloody blazes with thier worshippers. I have ~never~ seen a god/goddess do something for the good of thier worshippers, and no they do not supply the access to the weave. I follow none and I can touch the weave throug hmy wizard training and ranger abilities. So did I agree to the terms set forth by the Mistite? Of course. How else was I to get back to Layonara and my family? Regular animals tha twere not regular, dark all the time, a Mistite that seemed to have control over a headless King bryant, and the place just kept going on and on and on ... So when she comes a-calling on the payment of her help, I'll just take it as its handed to me and move on.
Daren is away a lot, but between the guild, the House of Hope and Sharyn, I have plenty to do to keep me busy. Though I do miss him so much at times, things are just not the same. maybe it is the getting older thing, maybe. Our 20 year anniversary has come and gone and another on top of that. We were to celebrate but ... maybe on our 25th. Time changes many things.
Hlint has changed so much over the past number of years, the area a bit more wild, the town more closed in. Many folk have migrated down Port hempstead way. The ships bring in new folk every day. Some of them . well ... someone dropped a Slaad tongue into the well and a little girl was poisoned. They say it was an accident, and it was something thier diety would approve of, but what fun is there in killing children? if it was my child that was poisoned, I do not care what belief they are following. I would put an arrow into them and petition the soul mother to keep them, never to let them return. What is this world coming to when killling children for the fun of it is allowed? And what makes this god, Shadon I think, any different from Corath? And where are the good gods to keep this from happening? What about the little girls god? Where were they when this happened? Why did they not prevent it? The Gods be damned then! And others wonder why I do not follow any diety ... it is because of stupid irresponjsible acts such as this and the lack of ... the lack of ... morals and common sense, grrrr ... the laws governing here are a mockery of the justice system. Why even have laws if they are not going to do anything about the law-breakers and evil roams freely? *The page looks as if it has been wrinkled and written too hard upon, a few water stains mark the page*
*The following entry is made on a new page, the writing neater and steady.*
Moving on ... Sharyn has moved on ... she lasted maybe another year hanging out wit hthat young rogue, but he suddenly disappeared and Sharyn says she does not know wha thappened, yet I think she has an idea but is refusing to tell me about it. There is something in her eyes .... After his disappearance she hung around the orphanage more, then as time passed her mood became lighter and she helped out alot more. She is quite handy at fixing the office locks and cabinet door locks and she is much surer in her actions and I can tell it will not be too much longer before she wants to head out on her own. I know I want to be there to help guide her but if one wants to be out on thier own, they have to learn thier experiences for themselves firsthand. But she'll be able to still stay here with us. I will not force her out, but I will expect her to save her coin so that someday she will have a place of her own. Soon journal, I will be giving you into her hands to read before she goes out on her own, so maybe she can learn a few more things to make the right decisions out there. I can only protect her so much, but her independence is showing more and more.
I hope that all I have written here will serve her as a guide, thgat, and all the training I have done with her, the travelling we have done ... Do all parents have that feeling deep inside that wonders, "Did I tell them everything they need to know to stay safe?" I'm still going to worry though, aren't I? I thnk that at that point, a new chapter in my life is going to begin and thus a new journal will be created. Kids ... speaking of which, I think she just walked in the door. Til later then ....
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*Jil sits behind Darens great desk, and it dwarfs her small frame, her head tilted back as she just stares up at the ceiling, her journal open before her, the next entry unwritten as of yet. Memories fill her mind from the first days she set foot upon Layonara, meeting Daren, getting married, delivering Sharyn, the many adventures she has been on, the adventures of raising a child, the child growing, learning, becoming independant ... during those times time crawled. And she looks back now and it feels as if time flew by. Did I miss anything? Did I do most everything right? After some time she dips the quill into the ink and writes:*
Dear Journal,
I feel as if I just said hello to you for the first time not so long ago and now here I am saying goodbye. You have been a comfort, a confidante, a teacher, a keeper of secrets and stories. And now with this final chapter in this part of my life, you will be shared to spread knowledge then stored away.
Before I move on to closure I have one more adventure to speak of, one I think is more important than any other I have wrote.
A short while back I was with a group in Prantz about to listen to a Rofie Priest about to give a grand proclamation. Before he was to speak Yard spotted a strange man making his way to the front. Seeing the assassination for what it was, it was deflected, but the priest was hit in Wyleth's stead. We took chase. After much investigations we found the poison used was of a rare sort and proceeded to create the antidote. We found our way Vandavar (?) in the desert where a rare snake could be found. Arriving there we were attacked by the most colossal of scorpions. Someone mentioned trying to be empathetic towards them, but they were attacking us, and my heart was racing. Yes, I was scared ... and I said "There was no way I am going to try it on them!" Well, I said that for 2 reasons. One, I was scared. I had never seen anything so huge, and my party mates were just ants to it. Secondly, I have such little skill in that regard. After killing them, we found a house of a man who created them and held the one snake we needed. When asked if we did everything we could to avoid killing them, (And I said Yes) another party member whispered my earlier comment and the man heard her. So he chose me to enter a den of snakes to retrieve droplets of poison from its fangs.
Jennara Creekskipper, a good friend of mine, was of the Rofernite temple and the Head Priest was the one poisoned. Seeing the man gave us no other option in getting a sample (And I suppose me being responsible for the current predictament) I agreed to go in. The place was wall to wall snakes and the one I needed was at the far end of the room. Unfortunately, the snake didn't take very kindly to me, though I did get the samples needed, I was poisoned myself. But Jennara needed it for the High Priest and she is my friend. I staggered out the door falling with weakness and handed the vial to her. In the end, the antidote was made, I got one and the priest got the other. I did not do this because of honor or great courage, but since I was partially responsible, I did it as a friend for a friend. Yes, I would give my life for a friend if it was to serve a greater good. At least I hope that is what I did it for, though we will not know until the priest decides to speak out once again. Soooo ... anyways ....
I spoke with Sharyn the other night, a few weeks after her 21st birthday and she wants to adventure on her own, to learn lessons that life has to teach, to help her grow in ways I can not teach her myself. And though I do not want to let her go, I know I must. I do not do this out of a lack of further teaching skills nor to increase my hold on her, I do this out of love for her.
I asked her in what direction did she think life would take her, what were her plans? She just shook her head and shrugged, as any normal teenager would do, and said that she would follow the path that I first took, enjoying the woodlands and wildlife and yet she does not feel that taking things head on (like her mother) in a fight is something she is ready for. The young man she ran with for a time had shown her a few things, but she did not elaborate, nor did I press her for it. We all have our private thoughts and they should be kept that way. I told her that she should move back to Blackford and she would be able to come and go as she pleases, though I would like for her to earn her own place eventually, though who knows what the future will hold.
So I told her that after one last entry she would have you to read. To know my thoughts, the joys and the heartaches, the fear and elations. To possibly learn from you the ways of this land and its peoples, to do a better job than I in preserving Layaonara's way of life.
So to you Journal, this here is good bye. And to you Sharyn, I love you so very much and if you ever need anything or need someone to talk to, you will always have me or your father. And if not us, seek out your friends. Your true friends will never guide you wrong.
Your Loving Mother
~ Jil Valhaikor