The World of Layonara
Character Development => Development Journals and Discussion => Topic started by: OldBear on June 08, 2006, 03:05:27 PM
-
[SIZE=13]A lone figure sits at a table with an unfinished ale next to his left hand. In his right hand is a quill that he is[SIZE=16]laboriously attempting to pen with so thatanother might be able to actually read it.[/SIZE][/i][/SIZE]
[SIZE=13]It was a cold winter night with a large full moon just rising over the horizon. You know the kind of night, when the sky is so clear you can see for miles and the winter winds come snarling down out of the mountains. So cold, that it takes your breath away, as soon as you step outside. So cold that the winter wolves are denned up for the night instead of running through the glade. It was the type of night when no one in his or her right mind would be outside.[/SIZE] [SIZE=13]It was just that sort of night when my stepfather told me how he had come to find me. I must have been about ten or so at the time. It was one of those rare nights when we stayed at an Inn instead of in our wagon. He had said goodnight to my stepmother and had polished off an ale or two. We were alone downstairs finishing some odd bit of crafting. For the life of me I don't recall what it was. Anyway I have decided to jot down some notes in this jjournal in case anything would happen to me in this strange new land.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=13]My Life as told by Dalan Stoneaxe:[/SIZE]
It all started a long time ago in a place far away from where I sit and write. This tale starts with a dark and stormy night many years in the past. The north winds howled out of the mountains with a bitter cold that chilled a person to the very marrow of their bones. The wind whipped a cold dry snow along the road and into one’s eyes making travel near impossible. Imagine now that an old wagon, being pulled by two oxen, is coming over a low rise. The wheels of the wagon creak with the chill of the night. The wagon follows a nearly forgotten dirt track that leads through the foothills of a lonely mountain. Huddled together on the seat underneath several threadbare blankets is a half-elf male and his wife, a human female. They are hoping and praying that they will make the next village before full dark sets in. As they cross the rise, they come across a scene straight from the lowest depths of a hellish nightmare. Before them on the road is a small pile of dwarven heads piled in a cairn. Their beards have been shorn from their chins. Other heads are stuck on the end of broken spears jammed into the nearly frozen ground. Numb with the sheer horror of it, the couple begins to move the bodies to a nearby ravine where they can pile some rocks on top of the torn and mutilated bodies to protect them from further abuse by wild animals.
Suddenly, they hear a fierce cry ring out. It is almost like the sound of a bear cub when it is angered. Moving two bodies, which seem to have gone down together, they find a squalling male dwarf child. Tightly grasped in his hand is a tiny axe made of stone. It is obvious that several dwarven families were traveling together down the road when Orcs had attacked them. Anything that would have given any identification of the clan name of the group had been removed when the bodies had been looted and mutilated by the Orcs. Not knowing what else to do, the couple took the young dwarf with them on their journey. They decided to name him Dalan after the grandfather of the human women and Stoneaxe for the axe they found grasped in his hand. You could say that I grew up in that wagon, but in reality, the entire outdoors was my home. My stepparents traveled from one small town to another and from one homestead to the next. They carried in their wagon a few trinkets and items that most farmers couldn’t make themselves. They would repair items for the villagers, mostly tin plates and cups. In the floorboard of the wagon, hidden in a very cunningly concealed cabinet, were a few jewels of low-grade value and the tools and molds for making rings and necklaces. My stepparents would also occasionally take a special commission for the making of a twisted gold band for use as a wedding band. I know little of why they chose this lifestyle. But from what I gathered over the years from while they thought I was sleeping, they were for all intents and purposes hiding from their families. My stepmother evidently was from a prominent merchant family from someplace. My stepfather had been an officer in some type of military command, but I never learned which one.
Evidently, an officer under his command was from a family that had wealth and connections. This so called officer framed my stepfather for something he didn’t do in order to get him removed from command. Once he was out of the way, he was able to step in and take my stepfather’s position. By the time this underling was done, all of my stepfather’s friends and family and turned their back on him and had completely shunned him. It was about then that my stepmother ran away with him. A druid that they knew and trusted in a hidden grove married them. My father always called mother “Sunshine” because she could warm his heart on the coldest of days. My father became known as the “Grey One” because he normally wore faded gray leathers and a cloak of elfish blue and gray. They never really told me where they met just that the wagon was our home now.
From my stepfather I learned the use of the bow, sword and of course the axe. From my mother I learned to appreciate life and manners. I know to speak of manners and a dwarf together in the same breath is very unusual. But she felt it was important, especially since I was an orphan. She always said that with good manners one could hold your own with anyone regardless of their position in society. They also taught me a little about blacksmithing and gem cutting. However, I never did get the hang of cutting gems. We were our own little world, the three of us, always traveling from one place to another. We never spent more than a night or two in any one location.
With a large yawn the dwarf caps his bottle of ink and cleans the quill tip. "I will have to remember to write more in the next day or so" he thinks to himself.
-
PLEASE NOTE: For the sake of the reader, Dalan’s writings have been translated into a much better form of common then he actually uses. In fact much of his writings are in the dwarven script and not in common at all. Where necessary this translator has used more modern common and certain phrases are translated into common as well as this author can, but not all translate completely. A rather tired and somewhat dirty dwarf sits at a table drinking Iron Hammer Ale. He looks a bit thin and drawn, almost as if he is not entirely there. From his pack at his feet, he draws forth a small journal, a pot of ink and a recently sharpened quill. Rubbing his aching head, he begins to write:
Today was not a good day at all. I have been trying to aid ole Johan at the crafting hall, but he is going to be the death of me yet. Though the way I feel, I may have died twice already today seeking his bear pelts.
On the good side, I have been spending some time with my fellow cousins. There is a growing and strong dwarf community here in Hlint and elsewhere. With their aid, I have explored much of the land neighboring Hlint and several of the Forts beyond. Exodus, Beli and Thorkain seem to be the oldest and most experienced of the dwarf clan. It is by their leadership that I have learned as much of this land as I have. It is also with them that my battle skills have grown. We have killed gnolls, ogres, trolls and other enemies of this land that has adopted me. I find that while I can use a battle hammer with some skill, it is truly my dwarven war axe that I love. It is beginning to become a part of me, almost an extension of my own right arm. I have commission a new iron one from Exodus’s brother, Axeodeth, and have gathered the funds to pay for it once it is completed. The sound as it slices through the air; the feel as it strikes my foes completes me as no other weapon as before.
Interesting enough, an elf often travels with the cousins. He speaks not a word of common but only his own tongue. He goes by the name of Drogo and appears to be a druid of some sort since he often takes the form of an immense cat. I find myself enjoying traveling with him since we seem to share a love of the forest. For me it reminds me of my travels with my stepparents. It is with him that I am relearning some of my forest skills and developing new ones as well. His friend, Demetri has done some translating for me. In fact, we have agreed to begin to teach other our own languages. So far he has taught me thank you, welcome, hello and a few other stock phrases. It is a lovely but difficult tongue for me to learn. I am sure it will take a long time for me to learn. I used to hear my stepfather use some elvish phrases to some of his customers and being half-elf himself he had a good founding in the language from his father.
There have been many others that I have met in this land. One, a lass named Sa’kura, can almost drink like one of us. She needs more training however since she was the first of us to quit the other night. She was very helpful to me in getting started here. To my shame, however, I was trying to gather spider silk with Beli when I unfortunately cost her the life of her pack ox. She was indeed furious with me, but she seems to have calmed down a wee bit this past day or so. I suppose I should mention here that when I arrived I asked Exodus what the dwarf nation here most needed in the way of craftsman. I have thoughts of making glorious weapons for my cousins. He laughed and told me there was a need for a tailor. A dwarf tailor I said? Swallowing my pride, I began collecting cotton and leather pelts. I am making progress. To-date, I have made some simple robes and a set of padded armor. I donated them to the relief effort for the war stricken lands. The biggest hold up for me is collecting spider silk to make thread. The spiders are none to fond of allowing me to gather their silk. I am used to being alone, but have quickly learned that I cannot collect silk without the aid of others. This is a new idea for me having grown up with no one but my stepfather and stepmother.
Well the hour grows late and work waits for no one. I had best get some rest while I can.
-
A hastely writtn note in a journal, it was obviosly written in a hurry and when tired.
I thought it best if I write down some notes of what has been going on the past few days before I forget. I have journed with many these past days, all true and vallent folk. Demetri is still working on teaching me elf and I work on teaching him de dwarven language. We have decided to start with the alphabet of our respective tongues.
I can't say enough about my new axe. Daily it feels as if my skillgrows with it. It fits myhandlikea well crafted glove. I have begun to look for another axe weilderwho might teach me some of the tricks of itsuse and someone to spar with. It is hard totrynew moves onthe golbins, kobalds and now ogres in thearea. Mistakes there tend to cost me plenty in healingpotions.
Salleron and I have journeyedsome together of late as well. He makes bows and I am working on bow strings. We have worked outadeal, but it will take some time for me to deliver a box of bow strings to him. Beli, another good friend and couz has made a deal with me tosupply him with elderberries. He makes barkskin potions and I will supply himwith the strange looking berries.
I best be a gettin to bed. I have spent de entire day craftin cloth andleathers and canna keep me eyes open. I willtry to write moreduring the day on......
the note in the journal ends with a small stainof ink as if the writer had fallen asleep and droped the quill on theparchament.
-
In the corner of the Freelancer's in Port Harbor sits a dwarf drinking a fresh brewed ale by a new friend AnnaLee.
I thought I might jot down a few notes while I be drinkin this new ale. Well made indeed and the type that will stick with you a bit. Hard to say, however, which is better the ale or this fresh baked corn bread. Hmm!!!
Been getting to use me new axe a lot lately. it seems to fit me hand like a well tailered glove. I haven't seen one this well made since Ole One-eyed Granite was a workin. Reflects for a bit on his past. Now there was a dwarf. We spent what was it three? no 4 winters in the village where he served as the Master Blacksmith. Me folks wanted me to learn me native tongue and to get a chance to see how I like using a weapon beyond a longsword and bow. Master Granite taught me the language as I served as an apprentice in his forge. Spent most of my time fetchin and keepin the fires well fed. He made me my first axe and started my teaching in the art of axe work. Smiles It was him that taught me that an axe was more then just a weapon or tool to be used. It is an extension of my arm, a part of my life. It was he that started me on my life long journey to make the axe a part of myself. As he was often saying, one can never truly master a weapon, but if ye get off yer lazy butt ye might someday at least come close.
Well looks like some friends of Miss Lee have come in and she is waivin me over.
-
From the top of a small hill overlooking Sielwood forest a small campfire shines. The flames dance in the low breeze that blows over the top of the hill and a dark robed dwarf. He methodically cleans the traces of fresh blood from his axe, the results of a misguided ban of goblins contesting his path through the area. Dangerous enough normally, tonight he gave full vent to his rage and anger upon them. Upon completing his work on the axe, the dwarf sat and watched the stars for a while thinking of his mentor, teacher and friend Elgon Merrick. After time, he dug into his pack and removed a small journal, quill and pot of ink. He commences to write: It has been too long since I have written here and now I have picked a time of greatest sorrow to pen these words. Still I have been reminded only to painfully that we do not pick our time of leaving this world. I have lost a true friend, companion and teacher today. My mentor Elgon Merrick has died this day. From what I have learned he was struck down by a band of giants in the Forest of Mists. I have always known that there was history of hatred of the dwarf clans towards the giants that inhabit this plane. Now I know personally of the hatred that flows through our veins. They have plucked one of the best from our side and they shall pay dearly for it. I have not some of the traditional rituals of the dwarf clans to follow being raised as an orphan. So I have created some new ones to fit my purpose as well as those of my stepparents. I have made for myself a dark robe of mourning and a hood to cover my head and face. I shall think of Elgon each day as I begin my work and dedicate each item I make to his memory. This night I have vowed two things; first to continue my studies and crafting to make Elgon proud of me in the shaping of the wood, and second, I have committed myself not to just learning the skills of the axe but to truly master it. I vow that no more shall die at the hands of a giant if I can prevent it. My axe shall bring fear to my foes and swift death to those who seek to bring harm to the ones under my protection. A wise old man once stated that, “Revenge is a dish best served cold.” My anger shall be as the winter blizzard as it storms out of the mountains bringing ruin and destruction to those who have killed Elgon this day. It will require much planning and work to master my skills. My revenge will not be swift perhaps but it will be final and complete.((Written in something red and not exactly looking like ink))This is my vow upon my life and honor. The journal falls to his side as the dwarf stares into the flames. His eyes are cold and icy and a grim look of determination has replaced the earlier rage evident in his face.
-
Leaning up against his pack, with a rabbit on a stick roasting over a small fire, a dwarf pens his thoughts:
Well tis been a time since the death of my teacher Elgon and the days have begun to run one into the other. I strive to increase my crafting skills. Just the other day I made a crystal rod for the holdin of a spell of de second level if I understand de elders correctly. All I know is dat dey need em so I make em. In fact, I have now made two of dem for the guild. I still work on me arrows and bows and keep the guild coffers full of the oak shortbow that so many of the militia use around dese parts. As a result, me axe work as suffered a bit of late. Though.... he muses with his thoughts for a bit.....
I did get in a fair bit of axe work today. Mind ye dey weren't dem foul giants but almost as good. Seems Rain needs a fair bit of topaz so Daniel and I went to a cave outside Fort Velensk to mine de gems. There be plenty of ogres to practice on today. Daniel took along a priestess with us. It seems he be a bit taken with her. She be a good warrior even if she seems to fight with her hands which seems passin strange to me. But she do know de healin spells and came in handy on more den one occasion. She be a good un and we will have to see how me friend fairs with her. He ain't said he likes her but de way he kisses her hand and talks to her gives me thought.
A brief grin crosses his face then a more solomn look overcomes him. Do the man good to find himself someone to share his days with. The other night we were talkin how fast dese humans lives do race across the face of the world. Course a nice dwarf lass around here wouldn't hurt me feelins either. Still would be a distraction from me craftin and me axe work. I still haven't found a master of de axe for further trainin so I attempt to recall what I was taught as a wee one and observe those around me. Of late been handlin my woodaxe like it be my war axe. Takes longer to chop de wood but be good practice.
Sniffs the air, ah me rabbit be done and de bread I made yesterday and sat on dat hot stone seems to warm as well. Time to eat! Uncorks a bottle of Firewood Lager he laid up a month ago and begins his repast.
-
Sitting at a table at the Wild Surge Inn with most of three bottles of ale and a large roast gone sits a dwarf with pen in hand.
T’was an interesting day today and I thought it be best if I jot down some random notes so I don’t be forgettin in me old age.
First off, I was standing not far from de inn here when a lady came up askin about Daniel. Her name was Ellis and she said she was betrothed to him and had we seen him? She also mentioned something about being de best archer in de land. Puttin those two things together makes me wonder about her sanity. Still will be fun to tease poor Daniel a bit about her. Not to much however. Forgot to mention de last time wrote about Daniel how good a warrior he be too. Was a couple times when we was facing down dem ogres that we had to stand back to back. Dere be few that I have met that I would trust like I do him. Takes a big piece of worry off me mind standing in de middle of a fight knowing he is guarding me back and that I only need watch what coming at me. Let’s me swing me axe with full force and not wondering will I need to protect me back any moment. Another swig of ale...
Another thing I wanted to remember is dat the other day me good friend Sa’kura found out she was with child. Lot of that goin around dese parts since Rain and Sonya expected more children too. Anyway back to Sa’kura, she was de one I first met in de crypt here in Hlint. T’was with her help dat I was able to buy me first war axe. I can still remember going to de inn afterwards. She drinks her ale as good as any dwarf lass me have seen. Over the past year we have become pretty good friends. She be married to a man named Barion, a stalwart fellow indeed and seems to treat her right. Not dat she can’t take care of herself on her own. She be a right good warrior and one ye not afraid to have at yer back. She seemed a bit upset and learning the news but on our way to her house she smacked a few bugbears and some mercs and said she felt much better afterwards. We been meeting in de kitchen here at the inn often as she has been given me some pointers on me bread and roasts and *smacks his lips* given me a pie or two as well. I know it be strange me cookin and all but it seems to aid with making sandpaper of all things. Anywaz, it beats burnin food over a fire all day long.
The grin leaves the face of the dwarf as he begins to write the rest, it is more the look of a scholar writing an important treastise on some event....
Anyway de main thing me wanted to note down today was about dat wizard’s tower overlooking the Thalos River. I have seenit a few times but always looked locked up tight and sorta run down. But today, something new came up about it.A lady by de name of Jade Willow had heard some rumors and stuff about dis tower. She invited my friends Drogo and Praylor and myself to join her. Another couz me hadn’t met yet named Argos came along as well. Along de way a couple of other folk joined us including that new young mage Omer. We got to de tower all right, but for some reason only de original group of us could make it past some type of protective ward on de doorway going up de steps to de second floor of the tower. Once we were up there, it looked pretty barren to me. Jade was moving along de walls and stompin on the floor. Light above, if she didn’t find a trap door in de floor along the far wall. Well of course, we had to go de hole and see what was down there. We ended up below de ground in a old musty basement. As we walked along we ran into some of dem giant ants like dey got outside Port Hampshire and some scorpions de size of big dogs.Next we fought some stuff dat lied in wait on deground. Black as molasses and twice as thick it was. Very hard to kill but Jade for some reason dinna seem to have a problem with them. We moved past dem and met something out of a nightmare. It had to be 10 foot in diameter and looked like a big tear drop on it’s side with the large part all mouth and teeth. We managed to drop a couple of dem in their tracks but not without dislodging some of de ceiling in de fight. Couple times someone got trapped under some rubble for a bit.
We decided tokeep movin a bit deeper into de bowels of de tower. The workmanship looked very old but in general steady enough to keep goin.Gulps the last of his ale....I thought those strange creatures were bad den we met some leaches. Now I ain’t talking about yer ordinary ones like ye see in de river. Dey was as big as me and if dey got ahold of ye secreted something that kept yer blood running until ye could heal de wound or bandaid it. Took a bit of fierce fightin but we finished them off too. The group thendecided to go a bit lower so we went down some stepsbutran into de coldest air and some kinda undead creature. We managed to dispatch em, but decided that to go farther without a cleric and someone good with lockpicks was not de smartest thing we could do. De group decided to leave so, of course, we had to fight ourway back up to fresh air. I don’t mind sayin it was a relief to get outside again. I am still bit sore where dat leach got me in de side. Hmm well dat be about all me know about de tower and me ale isgone so best head to bed. Going to have to listen to de gossip around town to see if anyone else been out to dat tower.
-
Sitting at a desk in a house in Krandor, Dalan pens some random thoughs in his journal:
Dere has been a lot happening of late and me not sure where to start. I guess I will start with de good news. Sa'kura had her babe, a wee thing with hair lke her mother and a grip of iron allready. Her name be Abigail and she is an absolute jewel. Sa'kura had a few errands to run and I got to hold and care for her for a few hours. Been a long time since I held a wee one and she was as good as gold. Almost made me a bit misty eyed caring for little Abbie. Must say I am very happy for her and Barion.
As for meself, my axe work is getting better. I have been getting some practice in de Haven mines of late. I have taken to traveling down to mine iron by myself. So far, if I take it easy and go slow it seems to work our well. I think I have found someone who can make me a true war axe of addie but will have to see yet as to de price. As for me crafting I have now made oak Bows of the Hunter and continue to supply oak short bows for the Haven Militia.
In fact, I was going to go get some iron last night when I met up with Lance. And dat leads me to me strange news. I had heard some strange rumors and stories of friendly ogres in the mines. Well last night a strong willed lady name Mellana was leading a group into de mines. Lance was going to I sort of tagged along. Neither Lance nor I could believe our eyes when she found some of de ogre rebels as she calls them. Dey were actually sort of friendly and talked. The one who did de best talkin was called Glurgle or something close to dat. In fact he actually aided up fight off an attack of the hmm regular ogres? Anyways they talked for quiet a while. I tried to see if could get some minin rights to the plat there but no one seemed to care about dat idea. Glurgle did seem to like me idea, once I showed it to him, of wearing an armband so one could tell de friendlies from de ones trying to break our bones. Dalan shakes his head at the thought and downs the rest of a bottle of ale....And here I though the giant purple worm was strange that I saw. But to think we were actualy talkin to friendly ogres.. hard to believe it is.
That trip also lead me to some bad feelins as well. I have journeyed often with Praylor and count him as a friend and even more a stalwarth warrior whom I can trust me back to in a fight. He has talked often of Toran but yet didn't try to push it down yer throat. I have met other's of dat faith including Sindor and even those of our guild. They are all good warriors and good folk. Well me have to talk to Praylor now to see if they are the rare ones. I met one last night who I believe is a paladin of Toran. Tyrian by name I do believe, and a more rude arrogant thg'rgI have never met here. The old dwarf phrase me weapon master taught me came to mind last night. "A halartth la urwa az thur'k pour'ra urtha kurark rurhte" It suits him perfectly. Still we had just met so I should give him de benefit of the doubt for now. But me gut says I am right.
Well tis time to sharpen me axe so best be puttin dis away.
-
A force of nature? No, a grief stricken dwarf who is blinded by rage and tears,travels through the land heading toward Hlint. Those creatures who stand before his path be they troll, ogre or other menance to travelers fall beneath his axe. A grim laugh escapes from beneath his helm as his foes fall. "Ye shall have an honor guard to make any warrior proud my friend!" A sob of grief slips out before he turns to strike down another ogre on the road to Fort Llast. As he stands before the gates to Fort Llast, he exclaims "I vow to you Sa'kura that should Barion ever need help with Abbie I shall be there for her." One to giants now one to trolls, my retribution shall turn their swamp into a nightmare for them.
-
Sitting on a couch in a house in Fort Llast the dwarf sits chewing on the end of his quill. Finally he begins to write:
Lots been going on of late. I have started to get a hold of me grief over the death of Sa'kura but the littlest thing seems to set me off. The other day Eghaas and I finally took our planned trip to Karthy. We had fun explorin and even got in some fishing. Our route took us past Fort Hinlad and I managed to find some ripe appples. T'wasn't untill I took a bite of one that I remembered the last time I picked apples. It was for Sa'kura so she could make a pie she needed. That was a good trip, but it was one that was suppose to include her too. Shakes his head she would have enjoyed it too.
Then today, Rain calls me to de center of the room and in a most serious tone tells me the group has a "grave" concern. The first thing dat comes to mind is not that I am in trouble but Sa'kura's grave. Tis funny how certain words trigure a memory. The good news is however, dey were not upset with me work. In fact, they were happy with it and made me de chief woodcrafter for the guild. I am a full member now. I can scare believe it. I figured it be a year or so before I could pass the test they had proposed for me. I won't let them down. I will past what they had proposed as a test in less then a year from now. De guild needs those mahogany bows!
I also did something the other day that I am not sure how will turn out. I have not been able to find Barion. Me thinks he is in mourning or is at their other house nearPranz. I thougth about it long and hard and finally sent a message by one of dem special birds. I included a letter to little Abbie should Barion decide to give it to her when she be older. Dat girl is so special, but me afraid I will hardly get to see her any more. Barion will probably avoid Haven and she will be raised elsewhere. I sure hope I get to see her again.
-
High up on the mountain overlooking Haven sits a dwarf with his quill in hand. The wind blows a lock of hair back from his forehead but does little to dry the moisture around his eyes.
I don't have much time to write, but I wanted to record me meetin with Barion today. We ran into each other in the craftin hall in Hlint. I had been sorta fearin this day, but Barion dinna seem to hold me ta blame for Sa'kura's death. We talked a bit and I guess little Abbie being doing good. He said dat when she hears a dwarf she smiles. A wry smile crosses his faceHe even offered to take me to see her once a week if I wanted. Course I jumped at de chance. I guess she be livin in de same hidden village that my dear friend Sa'kura grew up in. I can hardly wait to see her. I think I best be lookin for some type of gift for de wee lass but I no be sure what to get her.
A brief time passes as he chews on the head of his quill. I wonder what Sa'kura was like at dat age? I bet she was a handful and de prettiest .....The writing ceases at this point as the tired dwarf closes his journal. He loudly blows his nose and wipes his eyes. Maybe more tomorrow he thinks.
-
Walking into Hlint is a figure dressed in black leathers and cape wearing a dark colored light chainmail. He carries a staff, a recent treasured gift to him, and heads for the Wild Surge Inn. Inside, he pulles back his hood from his face and warmly greets Doria. Taking a table in the corner, he orders an ale and pulls forth his weathered journal.
Tis been a pleasant few days I have had. This new suit of panther leather's that Lady Ferrit made works well. And the staff from Eghaas is just the thing for walkin through the woods and travelin from place to place. A lot has happened to me lately. Recently I went with my fellow angels to a cave out past Haven. No one seemed to have a name for de area or the cave. We fought some strange creatures almost like giant insects they were. They were sort of an umber color and made such a confusing sound. More then once I found myself wanting to attack my friends instead of them. Fortunately no one was hurt by my axe. Dalan reaches down to his side to pat his axe head once. It gave me a good chance to work on my swings. I have been trying so shorten up on the stroke of the swing but increase the actual force with which I hit. Each day that I use the axe seems to increase my skill with it. It be a pure shame it doesn't seem to work so well on the undead. We ran into a bunch of them down deep in the cave. I had de strangest experience. From what I can tell I fell to some priest's spell. I felt like I was drifting above my body. Fortunately Lady Dora brought me back. Later I was told I appeared to be dead and only the gift of her god was I recalled to my body.
Anywaz, the real reason I wanted to jot down some thoughts here was that I met up with Barion again. He was on his way to see little Abbie and invited me to join him. It was wonderful. She must be about 18 to 20 months old now. She didn't seem to walk anywhere she could run. And if she wasn't running she was a climbin things. She pure wore me out tryin to keep track of her. It was grand! She reminds me so much of Sa'kura almost as Sa'kura was reborn in her daughter. I had carved some simple blocks out of oak for her and painted them some fancy colors. She surprised me how she could stack em (grins) and throw em. Bounced one right off me nose she did. We spent the day playin and I read to her a bit later when she finally started to settle down. I left in the afternoon in order that Barion could have time with her too. I should have left sooner but dinna realize how fast the day was going. I am hoping it didn't bother Barion. I dinna mean to keep her to meself. It has been a long time since I was someplace where I was around children for a period of time. I couldn't belive how big she has grown since I saw her last. Sa'kura would be proud of her.
With those last words, he puts his journal away and picks up his mug of ale.He offers a a silent salute to one who is not there saying "She be a good one lass ye can be proud of her."
-
A cheery crackling fire illuminates the night. In the background the chirping of crickets and the other normal sounds of the night can be heard. Above his head Orm has just risen in the eastern sky, his supper finished, Dalan pulls forth his journal from one of his many bags and pouches and begins to write.
Not sure exactly where to start. Been gone for a week or so from Hlint and believe it or not I be almost looking forward to me return. I thought I best write down some brief notes as to what I have been doin.
I had a couple of trips with Eghaas lately. I dyed some leathers up and a bit of chain and now have a nice light weight outfit to wear in de woods and on the road. It doesn't have de protection of me armor but it works well for most things. Wearing that and with my staff that I got as a gift from Eghass, I make a right travelin dwarf. We must make quiet a sight the two of us walkin down the road and talking. He is so slender and me, well I ain't never goin to pass for no elf whether me hood up or not. Chuckles to himself We seem to make good traveling companions. I had de best time just walkin and talkin about nothin much at all.
However, I haven't put up my armor just yet. I managed to get in some good axe work a while back. I was up by Fort Velensk and aided some getting topaz and then put down a bunch of dem undead in de woods around the cave. Nasty sorts they be. Me friend Erk was there and was a good group we had. Eghaas must we rubbin off on me. I was even thinkin to meself Aeredin be proud how many we returned to the great cycle dat day. If I keep up with dis however, I have got to get some silver worked into me axe. De fire is nice but a wee bit of silver wouldn't be bad neither.
An den dere is some good news too. Heard tell on me way back dat Lady Ferrit and Kyle had their second childe. Sounded if mother and childe be doing good. Glad to hear it I was. Dey good folk and always glad to offer a helpin hand if one needs it. I haven't seen Kyle yet, but I bet de buttons be poppin off his tunic due to his pride in another healthy childe. Between dem and Rain and Sonya, dey can start dere own guild in another generation or so.
Speakin of children, went with Barion again to see little Abbie. My she has grown. She and de other littles have started playing hide & seek. Barion showed me de basics of it. T'was fun watchin him to try to hide from dem littles. Give em a few years, and we can start dat game for serious. Tis time I start using some of dose ranger skills me stepfather passed on to me. I could lead dem a merry chase through de woods and it be good for em to learn it with someone safe and not a orc or such. I had a good time there all and all. Little Abbie's smile sure can brighten up yer day. She has got a giggle that sure do twist me heart up in knots. I look forward to seein her again soon.
Well I best be puttin this away. Been gone a bit and with one good push, I can make it back to Hlint. Need to get back to work, I do. Been gone to long and have a long way to go in me craftin.
-
Had a real nice day today. I went with Daniel to get him some oak and on the way we ran into Lady Sonya. She decided to come along. It was more fun then anything collecting the oak. The spiders and beatles were dispatched without any real effort do to her spells and Daniels sword. We split up afterwards and Daniel and I went on to Leilon. We had a real interesting talk. It has been a while since Daniel and I could just sit and talk. It pains me to see him suffer with love like the way he is. And since I have no real good experiences in that area, it is hard for me to offer him advice. Hmm not that I don't anyway....offer him advice that is. But the fact remains, it was nice to just sit and talk with him.
On another note, I feel like I made a bit of a breakthrough on my axe work. It seems like I am getting more damage out of my swings. I am not sure if just a bit stronger from chopping all de wood I need for my crafting or chopping all those ogres and giants. I know I have a long way to go, but it felt nice to have a feeling I had made some improvement.
The other thing I should note is that Eghaas and I made it out to see Abbie. It was great to see her and to watch her with Eghaas. It appears she has two adoptive uncles now. Still, I am glad Barion has worked out a deal with the soul mother and will be around a lot longer to raise her. Being an uncle is one thing....a father is an entirely differant matter. Not that I wouldn't do anything necessary to aid either Barion or Abbie. I owe Sa'kura that much, and frankly Abbie has me twisted around her little finger. I am hoping she don't figure that out for a few more years however.
Well best be going, got work to get done.
-
In a house in Fort Llast sits a dwarf before the fire. On his lap is his beloved axe that he is sharpening. When he finishes with the axe head, he polishes the handle with a special oil for wood that he has made. He whispers to himself, "You have done well my beauty. Those desert giants stood no chance against yer sharpness." After he finishes caring for his axe, he opens his journal and begins to write....
A lot has happened in the past few weeks.I have traveled twice to Dregar to explore the lands outside Pranz. Tis madness in Pranz itself, what true dwarf would issue orders like that regarding weapons and especially the axe of a brother dwarf. Anyway, I traveled with Erk and Silverhand into the cave in the Forrest of Mists. Pats his axe We did well there, and many of dem giants fell before us. My vow to make them pay for Elgon's death is finally starting to come to pass. Later, I traveled with a group to Saudria? I am not sure of the spellin of that desert city. I have found that the giant kin that live there are not so fierce as those of the forest. In fact just the other day I traveled alonethe road in and out of the town a bit as I explored the countryside.The giants I met there were no match for me axe.
Speaking of my axe, I obtained from Lady Ferrit an enchantment for her. It is sometype of magical liquid silver that I applied to this beauty Pats his axe again. I have been told that this will cause even more damage to the undead. I have yet to have an opportunity to try out this latest power. I hope soon to test the enchantment. As my friend Eghaas says, "theundead should be returned to the great cycle". I hope soon to send many back to the great cycle or whereever dey may go as they fall before me axe.
Dalan pauses for a bit as he thinks what else he should note.
Ah I should also write about my last visit to see Abbie. She is a true vixen. When I arrived at her village, I figured I would have to wait a bit since it was the time she normally has her lessons. I stuck my head in de door just to let her know I was there, when her teacher laughed and said "nope no sign of her here. If ye can find her, don't worry about bringing her back until supper time. It is too late now to start with what I had planned for today, but tell her to be here an hour earlier tomorrow."
I figured if she wasn't at her lessons like she was suppose to be then she had lit out for de woods and was hiding there someplace. I slipped into the woods near her house and began to look for signs of her tracks. I wasn't doing to good, I must admit. She is so light on her feet that she leaves no real sign of her passing. That was when I cheated a bit. I took some broken pieces of pecan from by food bag, and bribed a squirel for information. He gave me a good idea where she was. I headed that way, and sure enough, she was up in a tree chatting away with a old mother squirel and robin. I have to tell ye, I just stood there and watched her. I dinna have it in me heart to break up her happy time with them. So I just settled down beneath an old oak and listened in for a bit. It took a bit but then Abbie noticed me beneath that tree. She almost made me heart stop the way she dropped down so fast from the tree and ran over and gave me de biggest hug. She scrambled up on me lap and demanded a treat. Of course, I been keeping some in me bag ever since I learned she had a bit of a sweet tooth. Once that was over I aksed her what they hadbeen talkng about. It plumb amazed me how much she had picked up from my previous visits when I talked to some animals with her. So we continued our private lesson for a bit more. I am guessing she will outpass me soon. She is a natural when it comes to conversing with the animals. I mean I can do it, but it is more a sense of what they observe and a bit of their emotion. Abbie seems to be more one of them then I ever will be. I suppose I should tell Barion about the lessons, but it never seems to come up and when I think of it, we aren't together. Oh well, I can't see why he be upset. Well I have have to be up early so I best put dis quill away.
-
Sailing back to Leilon from Fort Velensk, Dalan pulls out his journal and tries to write a few words while the ship lies becalmed. Fortunately it looks like a storm front might be moving toward the ship and hopefully they will be able to sail before the storm. Since nothing is grumpier then a wet seasick dwarf.
Went to see Abbie alone yesterday. She was happy to see me but kept asking me about her da. Where was he? I tried to explain that a good friend of his was missing and he was searching for her. I am not sure she really understood me. All she knew was that she missed him and wanted him home for a visit. Other then that she appeared happy. Her ability to talk to animals is astounding for one of that age. I watched while she tried to talk to a tree snake. Not one that was poisonous at least. She got rather frustrated when she couldn’t make the s’s that she needed to be understood. Frankly, I have never had much luck trying to communicate with them anyway. I just told her to give it time and work more on the rabbits and foxes for now. I also got her to promise not to try a wolf or bear until I was around. I do hope she remembers that promise.
On a different note, it finally arrived today. I met with Master Kobal Bluntaxe in Velensk today. I felt like a little kid when he handed me a wrapped package. I could barely contain myself as I knelt and carefully unwrapped the package. And there she was, the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. An adamantium war axe made by Master Kobal’s own hand. It fit my hand like no other axe ever has. The balance was incredible. I feel like I could swing it all day. I swept through a few moves with it and I felt like it was cleaving the very air around me.
Once I settled down a bit, Master Kobal asked me on what enemy I would blood this axe. It is very important in the dwarven traditions to blood the axe carefully. A weapon of this caliber deserves a truly strong foe. It wouldn’t do to waste her on a boar or spider. I have been thinking about this since the day I ordered the axe. I have narrowed it to two, but am undecided on which. I have decided that it should be either a giant of the Forest Mist Clan that killed Elgon or a troll of the clan that killed Sa’kura. Either one would be appropriate. Part of my problem for now is that I have yet to come up with a suitable name for such a lady as this axe. Dorand’s hand has surely blessed Master Kobal in the making of the axe. But now I need his aid in finding a suitable name for her as well.
Looking up he sees the sails begin to billow with the wind. He carefully puts away his journal and even more carefully wraps and stores the axe that was lying across his lap as he wrote.
-
On a small hill outside Hlint sits a dwarf before a carefully banked fire. The faint glow from the coals would barely provide a casual passerby sufficient light to notice that the dwarf is frowning as if he is deeply concentrating on some vexing problem. Finally with a sigh of frustration, he pulls from his pack a small journal, quill and ink. He pauses for a moment as to gather his thoughts and then begins to feverishly write down his thoughts in the journal.
I have decided to marshal my thoughts here in de hopes that it will aid me to come to some decisions. Sometimes seeing in writing what de problem is brings a solution to mind. Least wise dat be what I am praying for this night. Being without kin or clan, I am unsure of what or how to prepare a ceremony to honor this axe. Truly Father Dorand must have blessed Master Bluntaxe when he forged this axe. I seek to honor that blessing as well as name a weapon that Father Vorax would approve being wielded by a dwarf. This axe sings to me in a way no other weapon ever has. As I see if I have three problems to solve regarding my new axe, though one appears to be taken care of. They be:
1. Who should I invite to de blooding of me new axe and it’s naming ceremony;
2. What foe should be honored in shedding it’s blood first on me axe; and
3. What shall I call this new beauty of mine?
De first problem turned out to be de easiest of the three. While I gave it some thought, the answer came to mind without much soul searching. I have decided to ask three to join me in this matter. Seeing as how I have no real kin or clan to accompany me, I have turned to my three most trusted friends. Though as I thought about it even more, they represent much more den friendship. The first I thought to ask be Daniel. He by means of my joining the Angel’s Guild has become sort of an adopted brother. We say we are family and they have become like that to me. All of them are and I hate to slight any of them, but Daniel has become de closest of them to me. Smiles to himself, Even if I do call him a long legged jackrabbit. I cannot image him not being there at this ceremony. I have decided that he stand for my new family since I have no real one left. My parents died without me knowing them and my stepmother is long passed away as well. My stepfather hasn’t been seen for ages after her death and I have no way to reach him.
The second companion shall be my friend Eghaas. I have come to enjoy and treasure are journeys together throughout the land. He brings a quiet wisdom to any discussion we have and is a kindred spirit even if he be an elf. I am sure we are quiet the sight as we travel down the byways around Hlint each with our staffs. He will represent the unknown, the future this axe will face as I travel down life’s pathway.
And then there is Erk, not the least by far and not slighted by saving him for last. He has been a great aid to me in considering my questions and the answers I must have to make this ceremony truly meaningful. He shall represent the dwarven clans as we have become in away from those who frequent Hlint and the lands surrounding it. As Daniel is the immediate family, Erk is the greater clan bound to me by ties of blood and friendship.
Using these three as feeling of rightness about it. The four of us represent in a way the four major elements, the four major points of the compass, a symmetry that feels right to me. It answers some unknown drive within me to perform this ceremony.
The second problem started out easy but quickly became a trap for de unwary. I had thought about the axe before it was delivered, but Master Bluntaxe brought the second question to a head when he delivered the axe. He asked me what foe would blood the axe. What a question! It is an important one, which foe’s blood shall first be shed with this axe. It must be a worthy one so as not to shame the axe and it’s user. It was easy to decide on two foes, but the narrowing from that has caused me two nights so far of very uneasy sleep. I have cried vengeance on two foes, either of which may prove my downfall. The first was the giant tribe of the Forest Mists. It was they that killed my mentor and friend Elgon Merrick. The second is that of the troll clan in the Ajar swamps who killed my dear friend Sa’kura. I must say my head hurt pondering this question far beyond the worse hangover I have ever suffered from too much ale. Finally last night I was fortunate to have Erk stumble over me on this very hill. We talked far into the night. He did not provide answers to me but instead many questions. It was those questions, which assisted me to define the problem and come up with a solution to it.
One of his questions is has vengeance been started or even completed on either foe? Has either been honored or had some sort of tribute to them? Would that make a difference to me? As I pondered those questions, I decided that Elgon has had some vengeance. I slew the clan chief deep within his cave in the Forest Mists and took his head. The guild plans to call our new hall, Merrick Hall, after Elgon. It seems while my hatred for the giants has not ended at least there is some sense of rightness and retribution having been completed.
With Sa’kura it is a different matter. I have no doubt that her husband Barion sought some sort of retribution for the trolls. He and I have never discussed the matter and in fact other then their daughter Abbie, we have not mentioned Sa’kura. I felt it was not in my place to do so, nor did I want to bring up bitter memories for him. I have scouted the troll area but not had many dealings with them since her fall. Erk asked me why do I care so for her memory. It was a hard question to answer. She was one, if not the first, who aided me when I was first dragon called. We shared similar interests and I often wondered if she didn’t have some dwarf blood in her in the way she could down ale at the inn. She went out of her way to make pie for me, and while I love pie, it was the fact she cared about me and thought about me more then the actual pie that touched my heart. She touched a spot in my heart that I didn’t know was void until I met her. I don’t mean of course the romantic holding of hands, but that of a true friend. It was her that trusted me with the care of her daughter Abbie; she who has now filled my heart as if she was my own daughter. It was Sa’kura who called me Uncle Dalan as she spoke of Abbie. It will be her memory that I will tie to this ceremony as a tribute to her and her kin. His eyes blaze here A troll shall be the first to fall before this axe and its clan shall rue the day it was forged.
Which brings me to my third problem. What shall I call this lady? He pats the axe as he thinks for a moment. I want the name to have meaning. I have a feeling this axe is something special. I got that feeling on board ship that night when the storm approached. I could see lightening dancing in the heavens. As I held this lady, the stormed pulled me as if it was calling the axe to be part of it. I talked to Eghaas about a name and he mentioned Storm Cleaver if I felt like using something from the storm I was recently in. There was something about that name that just didn’t ring true to me for this axe. Perhaps just calling it a cleaver bothered me? Erk and I talked last night and he suggested if I decided to blood it on the troll clan, I could name it Trolls’ Bane. The name sounded good but still seemed wrong to me. I have thought of Storm’s Fury and Lightening Strike. I even considered calling it Lady Sa’kura, but I would hate to have those who didn’t know her think she was an old battle-axe. I am going to have to ponder the name more I think. I am sure that when the time is right the true name of this axe will come to me.
Dalan then puts away the journal and carefully wraps the new axe before placing it in his pack. Laying back he studies the sky before drifting off into a restless sleep.
-
Dalan sits on a large rock not far from the cornfield at Fort Velensk. Leaning back against the boulder, he begins to pen the following words:
Much has happened of late, so in no particular order of importance, I thought I should jot down my thoughts and impressions. First a few days ago I was in Hlint when a young came running up to Capt. Garrett. She said a man by the name of Daniel had sent her seeking help since a large strange creature had been sighted in the depths of the goblin caves. It had been seen slaughtering goblins. Of course Capt. Garrett thought this was a fine idea, and while I might understand such a reaction, I was worried what would happen if it decided to venture outside by the gates of Hlint. When I described Daniel to her, I quickly determined it was my friend who might be in need of assistance. It took some persuasion, but Capt. Garrett finally agreed to double the watch on the walls in case a problem arose. He refused to provide any men to go and actually investigate the problem. When I arrived at the mouth of the cave I found that Lady Rhynn has also been told and I joined her and a group of others. We descended downwards and met nothing unusual until we found Daniel and those he was guiding. Pushing on we found a slumbering creature of the foulest breath. I will not comment on the suggestions and actions of some of the party except to say I wondered if they were trying to commit suicide. Finally Lady Rhynn performed some sort of act of magic and had us slay the creature. Frankly I would have tried to talk to it, but since the other’s blades were already chopping large junks of its hide away, I figured the event had gone beyond the stage were words might be of any good. The creature was killed in short order. Then Lady Rhynn managed to persuade a pixie friend of hers to drop down a deep narrow hole. I must say he took his time going down but was back up in a flash. I didn’t hear all of his report but it sounded as if a large membrane covered the area. She proceeded to establish an elaborate set of warning and explosive runes about the hole so to give warning to her if any more creatures arose from the lower depths.
The next major event of late took place in the crafting hall in Hlint. Erk was aiding me put the finishing touches on a new staff I had made. We were working in one corner when in came Jade the new finance of Barion. While I worked, she and Erk struck up a conversation. They hadn’t been talking very long when she informed Erk that she was redoing some clothes. She went on to say she had been sick in de morning and that folk thought perhaps she was pregnant with Barion’s child. I nearly dropped the staff at a critical place in the work when I heard that. I knew that the rumor mill was saying he had decided to marry her, but not this. I will of course not say anything to Barion, as it is not my place and our only real connection is his daughter Abbie. Still, I couldn’t help to wonder about this woman. First a whirlwind romance with Barion and then she might be pregnant even before the wedding. Was she just after his money? She was starting to sound like a common…hmm trollop I guess is the best word I can write here. How would this strange woman being around affect Abbie? Barion is well off financially as far as I gathered from Sa’kura. I know he owns two homes and is an excellent craftsman. Was she just after his gold and figured getting pregnant was be the final closing of the trap she has laid for him? I am afraid only time will tell if she is pregnant, but I am concerned greatly. I wasn’t before so much, but her casual announcement to two strangers leads me to wonder about her.
Speaking of Sa’kura, Eghaas, Erk and I visited where she fell this night. Erk needed some thistle so we went by the site of her death. I have not been there since she fell. I took a few moments to lay a bouquet of red roses on the ground where her blood stained the soil. I offered up a prayer to Dorand and whatever gods Sa’kura followed to be with her and Abbie. I must say that killing the troll who tried to interrupt my prayer gave me a great deal of satisfaction. I am trying to follow the suggestion of Daniel not to let revenge color my world, but I felt no shame this night putting an end to many of the troll clan.
With these words, Dalan closes his journal and leans back to recall some of the special memories he had of Sa’kura.
-
Sitting before a campfire, Dalan opens his journal again, this time to write a brief note to himself and possibly two others. He has to stop to resharpen his quill since he broke the tip in his anger only moments before.
Ah I thought it best to write a brief note here and to get some of de anger out of my system before I go talk to some folk I know. One be Barion the other a cleric of de dragon god. Neither of em be here at de temple in Velensk so I will now look elsewhere. Daniel let slip today that some villainous foul mouth liar be passing slanderous statements about him. He be afraid that this will harm him when he takes his knightly trials in a month hence. He doesn’t want me to say or do anything, but I cannot stand idly by while such slander is spread. Imagine de nerve of some low life scum calling Daniel a coward. I have known Daniel since I was called here by de dragon to aid in the battle against Blood. A truer knight I have never heard of. He is a brave man. Willing to put himself in danger regardless of the risk to save another. I can’t say that I know a more noble and yet gentle heart in all de land. He has worked hard to get to the point where he could apply to be a knight. It be his life’s dream and now some scurvy bilge rat is out spreadin lies and half-truths about him. I would like to give em a piece of my mind I tell ye or better yet a piece of my staff rammed up his…well ye get de idea. Anyway I figure I will be traveling a good bit this next week since I promised not to look up dis lore master Rastern or whatever his name be.
With that Dalan slams his journal shut and strides off into the night to find someone to explain the truth about his friend Daniel and woe to any foe that wanders before him this night.
-
Sitting at the inn in Hurm, Dalan decides to jot down some thoughts about the events of the past days in hopes that it will help clarify a few things in his own mind and sooth his anger a bit.
Not sure even where to start, but I got to do something to calm down. Lot has happened recently. I dropped by to see little Abbie and found out she had gone to de wedding of Quantum and Serrissa. I missed that which is a shame but I ended up high in de mountains and a sudden storm came up trapping me in de pass. Abbie was full of questions for me. Primarily she wanted to know more about dis lady Jenna who was holdin her da's hand at de wedding. I told her dat I really dinna know her and dat she should ask her dathat. Frankly dinna think I should be de one to tell her dey planning on gettin married, that she might be pregnant, and that she had been calling one of me best friends a coward.
That's right I finally found out from Daniel that there had been a problem and a misunderstandin and that it was she and Barion sayin Daniel was a coward. Boy was I furious that it went on so long. Figured Barion was a good man and if he had questions about something he would go to de source to find out de truth. Guess what dey say about love makin a man a fool be true. I did promise Daniel not to say anything about it and to let it be put to rest since he and dis Jenna got it worked out between themselves. I still don't trust her and will have to keep my eyes open, if nothin else to protect little Abbie from her new stepmom. Almost sounds like one of them fables about the wicked stepmother.
While I was at de village, I heard from one of de teachers that Abbie be starting to learn her letters. I figure next trip to bring her a small quill, ink and a journal so she can have a place to put down her thoughtsand a place towrite out any questions for me. Ponders for a moment I think I best look for one of dem ones for girls dat has a tiny golden key so she can lock it up. Me thinks she like dat. Protect her privacy a bit more too.
The only other thing is been gatherin plat with the guild. We had a good trip the other day, no one got hurt and brought back a large load of ore. I made arrows with my share. Others are using it for shield rings or so they said. I also made me first mahogany short bow the other day. So far made 3 staffs and a few arrows too from the wood we brought back a month or so ago. Nice thing about dis last trip is that I got in a lot of work with my axe. Not the new one yet, but my old one. Can't seem to gather all three friends at one time to do the ceremony. I am hoping Daniel be available now while he waits for de results of his knightly trials. Especially since it appears things not goin good with him and his lady friend Tegan. He doesn't want to talk about it, but I can see in his eyes he be hurtin.
As for de others, I have seen a bit of Erk and Eghaas since we been fishin some together. Been right nice it has to do that. Was also a good chance to gather crannberries for Eghaas. It seems he can make some essences that I will need for a bow I want to make. I figure be 2 or 3 months before can try it, but nice to know have some of the stuff I need all ready done. Eghaas and Erk been good to have as friends. We can talk out problems when necessary but can do stuff together in silence when de time is right for that too. They be good sort to have as a friend.
Well I am still worried about Daniel, still mad at Barion and Jenna, still worried about Abbie, but it is late and this writin seems to have taken de edge off my mood. Course the ale here has helped a bit too.
With those final words written, he packs up his stuff and retires for the night.
-
On board a ship bound for Leilon, Dalan decides to take a moment to jot down a strange meeting.
It all started out fairly normal. I got a note from Daniel about a trip for some topaz at the cave outside Fort Velensk. I figured even if don't use gems, it would be good practice with my axe. I got to Velensk a bit later then planned so I headed on to the cave. When I arrived a strange dark clothed figure was accosting Miss Tilli. This bothered me so I politely inquired what he was doing. Course I did have me shield and axe out and prepared dependin on his answer. He promply informed me he was talkin to Miss Tilli. It was about dat time that Daniel and a Christine? not sure of how she says her name, came out of de cave. I kept my distance because with Daniel in front of him it seemed a good idea to be flanking the man? creature? whatever he was. Seems like his name was Smithers or something close to dat, couldn't quite hear him. The bottem line was he said he could smell death? It seemed strange to me and not sure I fully understood what he was saying. It also seemed like he was lookin for an apprentice. Once Miss Tilli and Daniel started saying prayers for protection this fellow sure seemed to back off quickly. He said it appeared dey were allready taken so he was leavin. Good to see hm depart I must say. He made my skin crawl. I also did something I don't do often, I offered up a silent prayer to Dorand for aid. Now I often do that when I am crafting, especially when it is something new I am trying. But this be the first time in this type of situation. I must say I did feel better after dat. The rest of the day went as normal we got the topaz, I got to practice me axe work and we returned to Velensk safe and sound. I did give upme share of the gold to Miss Tilli to donate to her temple. I do belive her prayer and blessing helped drive the fellow off. I figure I best be makin a donation to Daniel's temple and to Dorand soon as well. Well it looks like were just about in port, so will close here. Strange events indeed!
-
Sitting in the inn in Pranz Dalan decides to write some more about his study of the axe.
Well Journal I decided to make a brief note of events today. I was travelin with Lady Ferrit and Kyle today along with others of my friends. For some time now I have been impressed with Kyle's mastery of the blade. While I prefer me axe of course, one can still learn a lot by carefull study. Whether it be how animals move through the forest leaving little in the way of tracks, or a wolf pack chasing its prey, there is much to learn from pure simple observation. Kyle has several moves which if modified a bit for my size and axe I thought might work for me. Well, it appears my study has finally paid off. Kyle has used type of spinning attack on several foe at once. Not sure how well it works when dat sword is flying above my head, but so far he has never hit me with it. I been thinking that when we are attacking the giants for instance the same move on their kneecaps would be good. Might work with dem goblin swarms to. I have been workin on such a move on de tall grass around Hlint where it be private and no one could get hurt. I have now decided it is time to start using if for real against those dat seek to harm me friends. Anywaz we will soon see if my study of Master Kyle has paid off. Best be goin for now, since de dawn is not far off.
-
At the table in Dora's house, Dalan makes a few notes of recent events.
Well the move I have been studying of Kyle's seems to work pretty well. It lets me hit many foes at one time, especially when dey are trying to surround me. De downside is, that I can't hit any of em with as much force as I am used to. Worked great on de goblins, not so good on de giants. But not bad at all today when I was traveling with Erk on bugbears and bandits. We got some garnet for Erk and gold for me. I didn't use it much but right after Erk hits em with a fireball and dey don't know what is happening, I followed up with dat move of Kyle's.
On another matter, went and saw Miss Abbie de other day. She was just plum full of questions about Jade and her da. I did me best to avoid answering any of her questions, other then I said I would do my best to be at de wedding if dat would make her happy. She was getting abit serious about it so I distracted her with me present. Seein a package for her sure took her mind of dat Miss Jade. I had gotten a bit of silk and wrapped up a journal for her. I got one of the trade folk to make it for me in Port Hampshire. Twas made of leather dyed dark blue. Den I melted a bit of gold down and had a scribe use de gold to inscribe her name on de cover of it. Abigail Firesteed it said in big gold letters. I gave her a supply of quils and ink for it too. The merchant made it up just like I wanted. The cover comes together and there be a gold clasp that locks. I gave her two tiny keys so she could keep her thoughts private like. The smile on her face when she saw it was worth all de gold in the bandit cave.
Well I best be going, I am behind if me schedule of making crossbows for Bloody Gate.
-
After trudging over the hills and valleys from visiting Abbie, Dalan stops for the night. He quickly sets up camp and puts some water on to boil to make a soup of the dried meat and vegetables he has is a special bag. While the soup heats up, he begins to write in his journal. I have been gone longer from Hlint this trip then normal. But it has been a while since I have seen Abbie wanted to spend some time with her. I also had some thoughts in my head that I needed to ponder a bit. The traveling time has been good for me to just think as I walk. But I do wonder what I have missed this time while I was gone.
Abbie was a delight as usual. T’was good to see her again. I took her up in the hills to continue her education a bit. We got a bit farther from her home then I figured and into a new area for me. I didn’t tell Abbie, but I got us a might bit lost. I wasn’t worried but didn’t want the folk in the village to worry either when we got home later then planned.
Actually it worked out pretty good. We looked around until I found a game trail. From there we just followed the deer’s tracks to where it had been watering. It was a small creek that was spring fed from the side of the hill. Once we found that, it was just a matter of following the creek downhill. Along the way I was able to point out some different tracks and tell Abbie how to recognize them. Once we found the stream it fed, we took a break and did some fishing. There were some trout in the stream and some early blackberries on the hill nearby. All and all it made a pretty good supper. We even managed to catch some extra trout for a lady in town. Seems her husband and two children died a few years back of some type of disease. I think it has affected her mind a bit; she talks a bit funny at times like they were still alive. But she is a pleasant enough sort and seems lonely. When Abbie gave her the extra fish we caught, she just broke down in tears, thanked us and went inside the house. The next day we talked a bit before her lessons and I managed to get a pretty good idea of her arm span without her knowing it. I am thinking she might be old enough to learn to use a small hickory bow and some target arrows. I will have to talk to Barion about this the next time I see him. Anyway she pouted a bit about going to her classes, but I promised to get back sooner next time and that seemed to brighten her mood up. So I walked her to her lessons where I gave her a big hug and left for Hlint.
I feel a bit bad about the time I have been gone from the Angels. I have tried to work on my woodworking skills while I am gone, but of late I have been pulled in three directions. I have a responsibility to the Angels, one to Abbie and now one to the dwarf clan as a whole. I met a few days back with Master Kobal. I had just finished making more heavy crossbows for Bloody Gate. I had planned to drop them off at the normal spot, when I ran into him. We had a long talk. Our conversation only confirmed what I have been feeling for some time now. The dwarfs in our area are not blood kin for the most part. Yet we have become bound together in a way I would not have ever imagined possible. We have forged a new clan. We each look out for the other and help the other whenever possible. Erk is a great example. He and I are like brothers now even if we do not share a common parentage. When we finished our conversation, Master Kobal bestowed on me a great honor. He confided in me a secret place of the dwarfs. Now I can leave my bows and other materials for the aid and protection of the clan in a place not subject to public examination. I have decided that I will not even write down the locations or what this secret place is. I can take no chance that this journal might fall into the wrong hands and be used wrongly. I have sworn a most solemn oath to protect this secret. I shall not betray this trust!
Some how I will have to learn to juggle my duties to all three. I allways wondered how a juggler kept three or four balls up in de air all at once. Seems like I am going to have to learn real soon.
Noting that the soup was bubbling away and ready to eat, Dalan slices on some fresh wheat bread from a carefully wrapped loaf and begins to enjoy his supper.
-
Sitting on the deck of a ship bound for Leilon, a dwarf sits drinking ale with the widest grin on his face imaginable. Quill in hand with his ale balanced between his legs so as not to lose it as the ship rode the waves, Dalan writes:
Ah what a wonderful time I have had the past day and a half. I met up with Erk in Hlint and then met a clansman new to Hlint by de name of Hrothgar. He asked Erk to help him reach Ulgrid, the city of the dwarves beyond Stoufal. Erk agreed and when asked if I would join them, I quickly agreed. We had little trouble reaching the city actually. A few giants sought to delay us, but between our axes and Erk’s spells, we quickly dispatched our foes. Hrothgar had some business dealings with a dwarf there. I dinna pry into it, so I really am not sure why he needed to travel there. For me just seeing the wonders of the city and the underground docks again is well worth the trip.
We got back just a tad later then I had planned, but Eghaas dinna appear to be upset and said he had been delayed by weather a bit anyway. That’s right journal, for dat was the day I have been waiting for. Erk, Eghaas and I had planned our trip to the Ajar swamp to pray for Sakura’s soul and to dedicate my new axe. All went as planned. We reached the place where Sakura fell and I placed red roses on the ground and made my usual prayers to Dorand to be with Sakura in the afterlife and to protect her wee daughter Abbie. I then dedicated my new axe to always protect the weak and helpless. My axe will always be used to guard those under my care and those traveling this land from evil and danger, and most importantly to use it always to protect dear Abbie. This axe shall be a force to reckon with some day to those who seek to end the lives of my companions and friends.
That being done and the dedication finished, I name by axe “Tempest.” As the rage of the storm lashes the sea, so too will this axe lash out to protect the weak and helpless. It will rage about my foes to guard those under my care. I then requested my friend to allow me to properly blood my axe in the dwarven manner described to me by Master Kobal. Bearing only it, I strode out into the swamp to face a member of the tribe that had so cruelly struck down my dear friend Sakura. Was it chance or fate? I will never know for sure, but I met a foe truly worthy of Kobal’s work. It was a troll larger then most I have seen there. I will not write much of our fight, except to say I was truly tested that day. The axe was a piece of art as much as a weapon. Finally, with a blow to its right knee, the troll bent over in pain and I was able to strike the head from this creature and bring about the end of its foul existence. From there, the axe being properly blooded, my friends joined me and we left the swamp. A few crazy trolls tried to stop us but met there fate at the hands of my friends and my new axe. I am truly honored to have friends like Eghaas and Erk. My only regret was that Daniel was unable to join us. But the time seemed right and I could not wait longer to properly dedicate this axe, my lady known now as Tempest
-
Sitting in a small tavern Dalan slowly drinks his ale and shakes his head. He is clearly upset but more in a sad relieved way a parent often is when upset with a child but yet glad they are not seriously injured.
I have been vexed with Abbie before but not like dis. It seems she took a friend out in de woods a couple days back and dey were attacked by spiders. I thought I had taught her better sense den that in the woods. When she first saw the signs of them she should have headed back to the village. Then I found out she had lied to Lady Jenna to go in de first place. She of course is grounded. She wanted me to try to talk Jenna into letting her go with me since I can’t be there that often. I told her no, yes be nice to go but no way would I agree to breaking her grounding. She didn't seem to surprised by my answer to that, but she seemed tofigure out how upset I really was when I also told her I wasn't going to show her my new axe or tell her about my naming of it.She got a bit teary eyed then and said she would behave. Time will only tell.She hasgot to learn a bit of common sense and dat one has to live with the results of their actions. She did the deed, now she needs to pay de price of her folly.
And folly it was. The poison from the spider made her pretty weak for a few days. Fortunately the village healer was close by and was able to help her. I can hardly handle it when I think how close she came to dying and ending up in spider’s web to get all soft and squishy before the spider drains them. I made it clear to Abbie how they finish of their prey. Her face got a bit gray, but if she is going to move about the woods, she has to understand the dangers of it too.
I told Abbie I would be back to see her when I heard from either Barion or Jenna that she was behaving. I den went and paid a visit to the spiders. I killed off a few of them, but it would take a major undertaking of the village to track all of them down and their egg sacks. I also took a load of wood back to Miss Trudy. I told Abbie that I redeemed her promise for now, but that she would be chopping and collecting wood next time I came. I figured she was too weak yet for it, but when I get done with her she will have some blisters on her hands. My guess is Barion might give her some blisters elsewhere, but dat be his business.
Dat does remind me however, I need to talk to Barion. It wouldn’t hurt for her to have a small axe for chopping wood and perhaps for self defense. Her knife is fine for small jobs but not for traveling in the woods with. I don’t want to step on his toes, but if he doesn’t care, I might teach her a bit about the safe use of an axe.
It makes me sick to think how close we came to losing her. I don't know what I do if I lost Miss Abbie. De guild is family, but she is getting to be more like a daughter to me every time I see her or think of her.
-
On the hill outside Hlint overlooking the badgers and the goblin camp is a small bed of coals, the remains of a campfire. Leaning against a rather large pack, before the coals, sits a lone dwarf. His cape is pulled around him to ward off the chill of the night. His hands are cupped behind his head as he stares at the sky wishing the stars would come out from behind the clouds. At his side lies his new axe, “Tempest.” In the stillness of the night, Dalan whispers to her. Never have I used such as you. Truly Dorand’s hands blessed Kobal when you were forged. The giants on Dregar are already learning to fear your rage; the rage of the mighty storm itself. While I have used other weapons, nothing seems to fit my hands as the dwarven made war axe does. It is time to dedicate my life to the way of the axe. While I am not a child of Vorax, surely he will not turn his face from me for choosing such a weapon. Dorand has blessed me as a craftsman in the working of wood, but the axe not the hammer seems to fit my hand. From this time forward, it is you Tempest that I will use to smite my enemies. My other axe will be kept for ordinary matters, but it is you I will strive to master though it may take a lifetime of learning. For truly it is said one never stops learning the ways of the axe.
Dalan then reverently kisses Tempest before carefully placing it back in a silk lined leather case.
-
Sitting in the ramshackled town of Hlint and drinking his own brew, Dalan thinks about the events of the past two days.
T'was an interested couple days journal that I have just had. I have met a new dwarf lass by de name of Grena. She, Zergon, Canius and I ventured toward Lyr to try to obtain an oil for someone in Fort LLast. I haven't traveled dat way in years, not since I died in the attempt. Well de ogres and joined up with various of de mountain giant clans and have heavily fortified the passes on the way to Lyr.
We decided to make de attempt with the idea we would turn back if necessary. I dinna telll em of my dream ot venture to Dorand's gand temple dere, figuring we not be able to make it. Still I thought it was worth a try. Well dat Grena a right good fighting lass but she be a bit reckless and belive it or not she had no healing potions. I gave her ten of me light ones and ended up using a large number of my other ones too.
Smiles at the thougth of fight It wasa right good battle. Tempest chopped through them like water. They got in plenty of good hits however and Grena fell several times bleeding all over de ground. Fortunately I got to her in time each time she fell. She bounced back up with nary a complaint. Believe it or not we managed to make it all de way to Lyr. We were warmly greated by de defenders at de gate as dey were leaving on patrol.
We climbed up high beyond de clouds den to the actual city. Never have I been up so high. T'was a sight I will never forget. It was almost as good as finally getting to kneel in the temple of Dorand and praying before his alter. I am going to have to make dat trip again soon. There be something upliftin about being his his temple in a city of dwarfs.
Dere be only one regret I have. By de time we got there, I had to use what meager funds I had with me to buy a couple healing potions and had nothin left to buy a banner of Dorrand with that they sell dere. Believe it or not, I couldn't find a bank neither. A couz in the inn said he would help me but den got into an discussion with the waitress and never came back. We finally gave up and use some magic to hide and run back to Fort Llast. We just dinna have enough potions to get Miss Grena safely back if we fought our way out. T'was a shame, would have been glorious fight.
-
Well dis may be a bit strange, but I have decided to start writing a bit more regular. It seems civilized folk often write down dere ideas and thoughts in a journal of some kind. So journal, I have decided to try to be a bit more civilized den I have in de past.
I will try to write down a bit more of what going on around me, my work on de various crafts and other odd ideas dat pop up from time to time.
That being written he pauses as he tries to think of something to write. Hmm dis may be a bit harder then me thought. Well I guess should note dat I am now making mahogany staffs, arrows and short bows. I hope to make some long bows of de wood soon. Jako and Daniel said dey got some wood for me in Krandor so heading dat way when get done here.
De big thing with dis civilized stuff is BATHS!!! I hear tell dat folk take baths more often den every full moon. I don't know what is wrong with dem. It can't be healthful at all. Still I met a nice gal by de name of Treana. She be no dwarf, but she be nice to talk to. She sort of hinted that I might want to try once a week or Dorand forbid daily. Why in bloody blazes anyone would want to take a bath every day is beyond me. I mean I wash the grime and blood off and keep me armor clean so it don't rust. When I ask other folk they all just smile and say I might want to try it. Got no idea why, but if it be for civilzed folk Iguess I could try it. Shakes head Well maybe a bit anyway. Just don't seem natural.
Well enough for now, I got to go get dat wood. Then later got to get to Ulgrid. Seems a couz in Lyr needs some plans to aid a fellow clansman.
Hmm dat reminds me; clansmen. I have gotten meself a family without really knowing it at de time. The Angels guild all seem to be family dese days. Ellohanna is becoming de sister I never had. Rain de older bossy brother. Kyle and Jakode strong silent types who leads us often in battle. Ferrit de wise woman of de group. Dora our spiritual leader. Daniel de close brother and confident I never had growin up. Den there be Sonya, Jill, Ran, I don't know dem as well to fit them into a niche in de family but they be good uns and family nondeless. And den dere be my adopted niece Abby and me friends Eghaas and Erk. Dis place no matter its faults and the dangers we face has become home.
-
Well Journal much has happend of late. Recently I traveled to Dregar to aid some others fight back my hated enemy the orcs. Erk was there. Things dinna go as well as I would hope. He cast a spell on me to make me invisible and I thought several others were going to go with me to attack some archers on the cliffs above our forces. I asked our leader at de time, Jin, it dat was all right. I thought he indicatedI should go, but I found out later he dinna hear me. Long story short, I managed to end up on de cliffs, killed one archer but dere forces surrounded me and I fell. I played dead for a long time before I was able to use as strange dust I had found. It kept anyone from seeing me and I was able to slip back to join our forces. I learned a valuable lesson dat night. Make sure of de plan and personally talk to de leader before venturing forth. T'wasa good idea, just poorly executed on my part. Still it was really de first time I have been involved a large group tatics and I learned a lot.
After de battle, I headed out to see little Abby. I have made her a small hickory bow for her to use. The draw is designed for someone her size and weight. I made some target arrows for her and some real ones to use when she learns how to properly use it. With Barion's permission, I also began to teach her and some of the other children how to use some weapons. In Abby's case, howto use the new axe designed for her that Barion made. She has much to learn, but took to her lessons with a vigor and zeal of her youth. Perhaps her encounter with the spider was a good thing afterall. Least now she has an idea why dis weapon training is important for her survival in the land around us. Things have changed for de worse with the weather changes. I can only pray that by the time she is old enought to venture from her village, that matters have gotten better.
-
Sitting in his newly furnished room at the guild hall in Port Hempstead sits a dwarf at a desk. His eyes are red and blurred. His door is locked as he just stares at a note lying on the desk. He has read the letter probably from top to bottom a dozen times and still can't believe he received it. If he would trust someone to even touch it they would see the first line that says "If you are reading this letter, then it means I am dead." It goes on to state this is the Last Will and Testament....
Dalan just sitts there in shock. "What happened Erk? It was not that long ago we traveled together. Your magic was powerful and your hammer was handled with strenght such that Vorax would be proud to call ye one of his. I can't believe yer truly dead! I know I told Silverhand and he could scarely believe it neither. We both are going to try to find out de truth of this matter. Still I have dis terrible feeling the letter be a true one and ye have gone ahead to Vorax's hall."
Dalan reads over the letter once more. "Of course me friend I will see to yer final wished. Hmm I guess tommorrow I start looking for Quantum. Dere is a lot to do and putting it off won't make it easier. I wonder where Varka is dese days too."
With that, Dalan moves to his bed and lies down thinking of his past adventures with his good friend Erk. He finally drifts off into a very uneasy and restless sleep.
-
Well Journal it has been my sad duty to start informing Erk's friends of his demise. I have found it very difficult to tell them that he is dead but that I have no idea what happened. Each time I tell them and I see the shocked look on their faces, it brings the pain and anguish back that I had the first time I learned of the news. I finally found Quantum last night. He was Erk's friend as well as landlord. I showed him the letter so that I might make arrangements to pick up the personal property. It was while we were talking that I learned some news of what might have happened.
It seems that a new dwarf ranger by de name of Grena Rockbasher, was in Port Hempstead when an unnamed hunter came into the city. He was bearing the body of a dwarf. It was hard for her to see the body, but it appeared to be wearing a bright red robe, though she couldn't say for sure how much was dye and how much dried blood. It seems the hunter was in the Battlemarch swamps and saw flares of light and what sounded like fireball explosions. He crept up to investigate and saw a couple of lizardfolk scurrying deeper into the swamps dragging some of their companions. On the blackened ground was what appeared to be the last stand of a dwarf mage. The scorched bodies of some lizard folk lay around him. Others appeared to have had dere skulls smashed in by some type of blunt object.
Now I can't say dat de body be that of Erk. The timing is about right for when I got the letter and de rough time of death. Erk was fond of some new red robes he had and he used a warhammer and fireballs as his main weapons. Miss Grena really dinna get to see the face of the dead dwarf, nor did the hunter go through the robes or any bags that might not have been stolen by the lizard folk. Me next task will be to track down de Capt. of de Guard who took de body. Then I will have to find where it went and make arrangements if it indeed be Erk. He was a true follower of Vorax so I guess it be best if we can get him buried in Ulgrid at de temple there. I know folk have asked about a ceremony to honor his death.
I know I be scared to go to de guard right about now. In me heart I am afraid the body be that of Erk's. Yet I keep hopin it is all some sort of mistake and dat he be alive and out dere someplace.
-
Well tis been a while since I wrote here. It seems the night captain of the guard who took Erk's possible body had the local temple put a spell on it to preserve the body till identification should be determined. Problem is, the guard captain then went on some leave due to a family emergency someplace on Dregar. Not only that, they don't know when he will be back and he is de only one who can authorize me to see the body. So I check back periodically to see what is happenin, but so far no luck at all.
I have been busy lately helping friends gather ore and gems. There have been a lot of trips to Dregar to venture into the mines. I also made an oak shield for sale the other day for a customer of Ferrit's. All of this means, that I haven't been to see Abbie in way to long of a time. I have been feelin pretty guilty about that.
I think I have found a way to make it up to her however. I have made her some very special arrows. They aren't the hunting and targeting ones I have given her before. These are a mixture of arrows with bronze and iron tips. They are sized for her bow. The thing is these are not for hunting. They are to be used only for protection in times of danger. The arrowheads are designed for maximum damage and I was very carefull in the fletching of them. I used the finest feathers I can find and made her a special quiver to hold them in. The leather case is dyed a dark blue with gold stiching on it. On the inside of the quiver just at the top seem is her name.
I will have to spend some time with her explaining that these are never to be used for fun or just hunting. These are you might say war arrows. They are used to kill when it is a matter that your life or a friend's life hangs in the balance. I am not sure she is old enough for them, but they might have prevented her from almost dying from the spider's attack had she had them that day. The world is a dark place these days with no sign of change any time soon. The village is safe for now and in a very protected and hidden place. But evil is stalking the land. Someday soon these arrows may mean her survival if the worse should happen. I could never live with myself if she died because she didn't have what she needed to survive. I owe Sakura that much and more.
-
The lone figure slowly walks around the room and then down the long hallway to his room. There he places his axe carefully on a specially designed rack by his bed. He opens a bottle of his own brew and takes quill in hand.
Well Journal tis been a most perplexing few days around here. I just finished my patrol of the guild hall. All is quiet and the doors and windows are all shut and the wards in place. I be not too sure where to start to write of these past few days, so methinks I will start with today and work my way backwards.
Dat blasted night guard who took the body of what I thought was me friend Erk, finnaly arrived back from where ever he had been. Dis means I finally got into de temple to view the body. Ye can't imagine me surprise when I saw dat it was not Erk. De dwarf was dressed close to how Erk did, and what in de world this poor soul was doing in dem swamps we will never know. I said a brief prayer to Dorand for who ever lay dere, but I have to admit I also said thanks to him dat it wasn't Erk. I do know, if Erk ain't dead yet, I will kill him for de worry he has put me through. Though, if he no be dead why did I receive his Will when I did?
I also have had a de chance to use Tempest a fair bit lately against the giants. The guild has needed ore and gems in Dregar, and I was fortunate enough to go with them on several occasions. The last time was hard on me however. T'wasn't the giants that were de problem, however, twas this dwarf lass Grena that was. I got to admit she be a pretty one and she swings a mean axe herself. She got to learn some control though. She wades into dem giants like dere be no tomorrow. I am afraid she going die some time like so many of me friends with her recklessness. But she got a powerful hate for giants and drow. She near tried to tear down de temple in Austria when she thought it was a drow temple. I tried to tell her no drow inside, but she wouldn't listen. Finally Beli had to stun her and we carried her away and out into de desert to calm down.
Anywaz, her chargin into dem giants wasn't de problem. She took it into her head to act like de two of us were married almost. She was callin me sweatie and tellin me what to do. Beli kept laughin at me and askin when de day for de wedding was. I dinna know what in de world to do. I must admit I was sure flustred. Though thinkin back on it a bit, she be a fine lass. One could do a lot worse den her. Still I would like some say in de courtin process. Even if de attention was a bit flatterin and very surprising, she caught me plain by surprise. De worse of it was after we returned to Pranz she said Ferrit put her up to it and it was all a big joke. Ferrit denied bein in on it, but Beli acted like he knew all about it. Made my head hurt it did as to what had happened to me and who knew about it.
Den last night de real strange thing happened, I ran into Shar. I been helpin her a bit with collectin ore and such and teachin her a bit of our tongue. Somehow I must have mentioned Grena to her. Turns out de two of dem are friends. I can't recalll if I said anything about takin a shine to Grena before found dat out or not. I am goin to have to walk real careful like for de next few days while I figure out where I stand on dis idea of courtin someone. Sure don't want to hurt Grena if not interested in more den bein friends. She do be one nice lass however.
Me thinks that Shar might not recall much of de conversation cause Erk came by. He had dat pale look about him as ye do when ye die and de bindin takes hold. Long story short, she was nursin him and he asked her to marry him. De lad got so sense of romance in him. He did it on de road and before me and another dwarf I know named Gil. Shar must like de lad cause she said yes and dey stood dere starin at each other for de longest time before dey left.
Finally I did get back to see Abbi for a brief visit. Twas on my way to help get ore a few days back. My she has grown. I gave her de special arrows I had made. She seemed to understand how important dey were and dat not to be used except in dire need. I pray she never have to use em, and dat if she does, she used em right and not for fun.
Well I best go make me final rounds here at Merrick Hall before I retire for de night.
-
Sailing home from Hurm, a dwarf sits beneath the shade of the sails and writes in his journal.
I could scaresly belive me eyes today Journal. I walked into the party at Groshin's place and dere was Erk sitting as smug as you please drinkin an ale. I got to admit, I feel to me knees in disbelief and praised Dorand. Den when my wits were about me I chased him about de room tryin to strangle him.
Erk had no idea I had gotten his will and has no idea why it was sent out. He promised me he would look into de matter promptly. I strongly suggested he do dat since if it happens again and he be alive, I promised dat I kill him meself! Turns out he had been to de great library, whatever in de world dat is and ran afoul of some elves and others. I guess I missed de story but he said he fill me in some night.
Other den dat was a pretty good day. We drank some wiskey and ale and then went out and killled some giants. Mined ore and gems and had a right good ole time. I do believe I have reached de next level in me axe work. I be no master, but I don't feel like a student any more either. As me friend Kyle said, "tis always more to learn, more to master." Still I do feel a bit proud havin gotten dis far.
Dere was only one thing that got me worried today. It seems like someone got dere eye on Grena. I best be decided if I am goin to be courtin her or not. If not, den not a problem. But if I am I best get de move on before some blighter moves in on me and takes her away before I even get started. Dat is is he be interested in me at all. We talked a bit the other night, and I do believe she is. Still best not to take her for granted neither.
Looks up. Hmm port be in sight best close for now.
-
A dark room with a single candle barely providing enough light to tell that someone is sitting in the shadows. Alone with his thoughts and his grief, a few private tears may be leaking from his eyes. A few words are penned upon the paper before him.
I found Erk de other day only to now have to bury him. Dis time dere be no doubt he is dead. His will arived today by bird. The body has been seen and verified that it be my friend. Now it falls on me to handle de arrangments and his last wishes. I hope Dorand grants me de strength to see dis through.
-
Sitting at a table in the back of the guild hall sits a dwarf with quill in hand writing in a small journal.
It has been a rough few days. Erk's death has hit me pretty hard. I am afraid I have maybe takin it out on me friends and dat my temper is loose. For instance, I was sittin before de reflectin pool here in Port Hempstead de other day. I kept think about Daniel movin away and retiring from de guild; dat lead me to thinkin about Elgon and Sa'kura dying, and now Erk. I was so wrapped up in me thoughts, I dinna even notice someone approach me till little Abbie gave me a hug. I sure jumped at dat, me dagger was half way out of de scabbard when I realized who it was. Poor Abbie, I am not sure what she thought. I tried to manage a small smile but not sure I pulled it off. I had just been thinkin of her mother's death and dere she was standin in front of me. I had plain forgot de letter from Barion sayin dey were movin back to Haven. We talked for just a short bit when Barion came and got her. Frankly I be shamed to say it, but I was glad he had. I was no fit person to be around, especially not with a young lass like Abbie.
I decided I had best leave de area and go to where folk are quiet so particular about yer manners. I wandered over to Fort Vehl figuring some cheap ale couldn't hurt. I was smart enough, however, to stop outside of town to sharpen me dagger. Probably good thing too. A young lass stopped by de side of the road while I was workin on me weapons. I was mutterin to myself and she was sort of talkin to herself as well. Turns out we was both talkin of Erk's death. She had met him briefly and was one of dem with him when he died. To say I was surprised was to put it mildly. I charged over to her like a bull with a red cloth in front of his eyes. I dinna have no weapons out and wasn't goin to hurt her. But some young tough must have thought so. So while I was trying to talk to her about Erk's death, he kept interrupting and askin what me intent was. I told him to close his mouth and keep his trap shut. Yeah I know not de best of manners, but he riled me de wrong way. He was still wet behind de ears and couldn't have been dat long since he was nursin at his mother's ......
Anwaz I counted to ten, like Daniel had suggested instead of brainin him to shut him up. Somewhere along de line I did calm down enough to tell him trying to learn about me friend's death. He made some more comments so I invited him over to de arena if dat was what he wanted. He didn't oblige me. Lookin back, I should thank him. He did get me mind off Erk's death for a bit. He started headin off and sort of yelled back a comment that if he wanted to he would come out of de shadows to get me and I would never knew he was coming. Leastwise that is what I thought he had said. I talked to de lass abit more while I tried to calm down. Her name was Kinai or something like dat. I will have to find out for sure later. She left and I settled down to think a bit.
The more I thought about it, I decided dat de young fellow was goin to get himself dead if he kept talkin like he had to me. Who knows de next fellow might not be so understandin like me. So I dusted off a bit of me ranger skills and followed his tracks through de woods. T'wasn't all dat hard to do. I found him outside Port Hempstead in de field talkin to the same lass I had been. A light rain had come up and made me job even easier. I snuck through de shadows of the forest edge and managed to get up right next to him without him even knowing. Dinna learn his name however. The first thing he knew of my presence was when I whispered into his ear "that he ought to be more careful about who he threatened and dat he wasn't de only one who could sneak up on folk." I mean, I was only tryin to help de babe. I left him with his mouth open. I am not sure what affect I had on him, but I sure dinna hear no reply coming back.
Anywaz, the lass had told me a bit about de dragon who killed Erk. Seems it be a mighty red un. I decided I needed more information so I headed toward de crossroads where de Stormshack be. I was in luck. Dat bard Master Ozy was holdin court dis night. During a beak in his stories I asked him about de dragon. He gave me de correct name and told a long rather involved story about two who had defeated him. T'was interestin to note dat the two that have were both dwarfs.
I will have to think through what he told me and me notes at de time and write down more here later. Took one of dem over a decade to make a hammer that did the job once of defeatin de dragon. I figure I am no hero out of legend, but, Dorand be willin, I got about a good 200 years left iin order to take my revenge. I can wait a bit to do it right. Well time to make be rounds.
With that Dalan closes his journal and begins to make his nightly rounds of the guild hall. As he walks he begins to contemplate what it will take for someone like him to revenge Erk's death. Least he figured he has time to study the ways of the dragon. There is nothing to say that a dwarf has to take his revenge right away. He can wait as long as it takes to do it the right way.
-
Sitting in his room in a chair about two sizes to large for him sits a dwarf penning a letter to a young child. He takes his time carefully crafting his letters in hopes she will be able to read his words in the common tongue.
My Dearest Abbie,
You will never know how much I cherish your gift of the flowers and the cherries from your mother's tree. You have brought me out of the despair of Erk's death by reminding me that life grows up anew all around us.
I found the gift when I got home. I ran into Eghass after he escorted you home and he told me you had stopped by. I had been out buying some supplies because I have to leave town for a few days and will not be able to stop and see you before you have to leave. I promise I will come to visit you soon in Haven and I pray this letter will make up for my absence in some small part.
Knowing your father, I am sure you are grounded again. Believe me, he is right. Port Hempstead is in general a good place to live. But it is not your hidden village. It is instead much more like the forest lands. There are safe paths to walk and quiet groves of peace. However, Abbie, there are also places like the spider grove.
I am not sure you are old enough to understand this or not. In the forest you faced wild beasts. Many were kind many were not. But in general you could tell them by sight and knew them to react according to their kind as set out by nature's hand. Also while we can share some of their thoughts, they were not intelligent as man is. Here in the city, you cannot tell good from evil by a glance at the person. Here the rabbits and spiders wear the same face and friendly smile. There are those of an evil nature that hide beneath a friendly looking skin, but like the spider they lie and wait to snare someone in their web. Falling into their hands might lead to a fait some would consider to be worse then death. As you grow older, I think you will understand better what I mean. Until that time, think of the city as a forest where one must be wary at all times. Use a guide till you learn the safe paths. Stay out of the areas where snares and webs will bind you. As you grow wiser in the ways of the city as you have of the forest, you will learn to recognize areas where traps may be laid and where you may feel safer. However as in the forest, you must still remain alert for the hidden dangers, the animals moving off their normal hunting grounds because of fire.
And like the forest lands, some forests or cities are safer then other. Haven is a good place to live, but one must be wary. There are dangerous places close by and often the dangers breach the city walls. Keep your wits about you and watch your surroundings and please don't go wandering off alone. Neither your Da or I need more grey hairs then we all ready have.
I hope some of this makes sense to you. I often forget your true age and think of you as older then you really are. Just know that I love you and don't want anything bad to happen to you. You remind of things gone past and the hope and joy of the future. A future I want to share with you for many years to come.
Your Uncle,
Dalan
-
After Dalan seals the letter to Abbie, he pulls out his journal and begins to write in it as well.
Ah journal my darlin Abbie squeaked by again. Eghaas told me how he ran off a man who was attackin her and Sonya. He figures he was lookin for coin for drinks at a tavern and not a slaver. Still, it made my heart stop hearin what happened. They were on dere way to see me and must have gotten lost. I just wrote her a letter telling her how the city and the forest are not all that differant. I hope she understands what I mean.
I have been down in the depths of dispair lately over Erk's death. I think it hit me harder this time then last time when I thought he was dead. I just wasn't sure if there was any reason to stick around here and that perhaps Daniel had the right idea. Then I came home and found Abbie's gift. It was some flowers she must have picked from the public gardens and some cherries from her village. There is only one cherry tree in that village. It is the one where Sa'kura is buried. It was planted after her death I believe and has shaded her grave and now produces cherries for us to remember her by.
It was then I realize that while death surrounds us every day, so does life. Death is the past, life is the future. It is for the future that we live for. I need to look forward and not dwell on the past. Abbie is a true blessing to this ole dwarf. Her life, her spirit gives hope that good will win out and that life is worth living.
Erk would not want folk dwelling over his death but to embrace life and its challenges. Today is a new day and tomorrow will bring another. For Erk, for Abbie and those others that have gone on to a new challenge, I will look forward to the new day.
-
Sitting before a fire on his favorite hill outside Hlint, Dalan notices that people just don't travel the road like they used to. The goblins are patrolling closer to the road, but so far haven't mustered up the courage to mount any sort of attack. Course, killing the last bunch of scouts who bothered him, might have had something to do with that.
Well Journal I am just about to Hlint. It has been a long time since I have traveled this way. For the life of me I can't figure out why Barion has kept that house in Haven. It is so far from anything, and now it is an island in an even more dangerous pool of wicked creatures. The gnolls are getting stronger and smarter. It has to be only a matter of time before they make a major strike against the town. I just hope that Kit and the militia are up to de task before them.
Not much new happening to me except Grena. She is the most wonderfull lass I have ever met. There is something about her that warms me from the bottom of me feet to the top of my head. Today for instance, she saw me and ran up and gave me de bigest hug. She felt right good in my harms she did, but I canna tell if it be friendship or somethin more?
The only other thing new, is that I seem to at times be able to focus all my skill and training into one very precise strike. It almost explodes out of my inner most being as a focused attack. It seems worth trying to increase the frequency of it, but so far it has escaped me.
Ah I suppose I should also write why I am out in this foresaken land. I am on my way to see Abbi. For the past year or so I have been teaching her a word or two of the true tongue. But now that she be a bit older and a lot closer, I am going to see if she wants to learn the language of the dwarfs. I know she calls me Uncle, but I been wonderin if I could make it more, legal like. Make her my adopted niece and all. It would help if she could learn the true language. I am hoping she will want to learn it. There are some things that common just don't covey well. Someday I hope to take her to see the clans in Ulgrid and it would be nice if she could be introduced to the clans and respond to them as a proper dwarf-kin. Course I can't tell Abbie about de kinship part till I get Barion's blessing and figure out how to go about it doing it too. Still tis something to plan for, be nice to have a true niece and all.
-
Well Journal, I missed Erk's funeral today. I feel bad about it, but I know Erk would have understood. The reason is a bit complicated.
I met Barion yesterday and had a long talk with him about Abbie. I asked him first off if I could teach her me language and to dat he readily agreed. He did ask if de other children could come as well. I couldn't hardly turn him down, but we don't normally teach just anyone our language. I will have to see if dey put much effort into it and try to cover some things when Abbie and I are out walking.
The next topic was a bit harder since I really don't even know if it can be done. I have no real kin, except the guild but that be a bit different. Abbie been callin me Uncle so long dat I feel like she is part of my family. I want to see if I can maker her dwarf-kin I have heard of it but not sure how it works. Barion has a bit more reservations about dis. He said other then his memories, Abbie is his only connection to Sa'kura. He don't want her thinking that I am replacing him. I told him I would never try to take his place. He was her father and it wouldn't be proper for me to try to undermine him. With that being very clear, he agreed I could explore it further. I suppose if nothin else, I could make her my beneficiary in case I died.
I figure next I need to contact Varka or Kobal and see if dey have any ideas. I don't want to adopt her as me daughter since dat would be wrong with Barion livin, but would like for formalize it some ways so Uncle be more true. But dat might not be possible, I will have to dig into de dwarf laws and customs in these parts a bit further.
Anyways, so after I talked to Barion, I met up with Grena. We went to the Stormshack. I had been dere earlier looking for Grena when ran into Acacia and Jenna. Acacia has a tiny glass unicorn named Diamond. From what I can tell, Diamond is alive and once was a full size one but her horn was broken off and stolen. Acacia recovered it, I think? But she hasn't been able to restore Diamond back to her original self. I introduced Grena to them and we chatted for a bit. Somewhere along de line I ended up holding Grena's hand. Still not too sure how dat happened neither, but it was nice.
From dere we went into the Ire Mts and the desert beyond. I gathered some gems I needed and Grena got some herbs she wanted. We kept going and came out on de old trail to Spellguard. Since we were to close we went on to Haven City. Dere we split up and I stopped to see Kit. Seems my bows have been popular with the militia and I wanted to make sure dey were holdin up all right. She said dey were, but dat a patrol was running late and could I stick around. She was worried de gnolls were buildin up and planning an attack. I sure couldn't tell her no and figured if I missed de funeral, Erk wouldn't hold it against me looking down from Vorax's hall.
The delay did give me time to see Abbie before she went to bed. I mentioned de language lesson to her and told her to think about it overnight. If I was going to do this, I wanted her to agree to give it her best. She was most solemn for her and said she would give it careful consideration. I almost broke out laughin at how serious she was about it.
After she went to bed, I went back out to de walls. Turned out one of de patrol had sprained his ankle bad and it had slowed them down. Nothing happened of note, so I returned to Port Hempstead today. I figure I will have to ask Grena how it went and do something private later in Erk's memory.
-
Sitting at a table at the guild house eating a late lunch, Dalan decides to update his journal.
I ran into Barion today and he appeared to be in a good mood. I have asked a lot of him lately regarding his daughter, Abbie, and I didn't want him to think I was interferring in her life. I decided to go ahead and mention something to him that I had noticed. Fortunately he took it in stride and I think he probably either knew about it or suspected my information.
The thing is, on a couple of occasions when Abbie didn't think I had seen her, her hands started glowing. Though I suppose it is possible she hasn't noticed it, but that would surprise me as observant as she is. The glow itself, never lasted very long and wasn't too bright. Knowing her mother, I suspect that some mage abilitiy is starting to develope in her as she gets closer to the age of womanhood.
Barion and I didn't have time to discuss the matter because someone was approaching him about business. I left it that if he didn't know anyone else, I was sure Rain and Sonya Darius would be glad to test her at least. I didn't offer them for teaching, since I hadn't talked to them, but I knew their daughter had started to become a friend of Abbie's. He nodded and said thanks and that he would look into it. Like I said, he didn't seem to upset that I had mentioned it anyway.
-
Well Journal I got an interesting note today from Sonya Darsus. Seems she has seen or heard about little Abbi's journal that I got her. She would like to make two of em for her children. If I read de note right, dis going to be a effort several of us from de guild. Makes sense actually, I wonder if dere would be much a market for such a thing?
Anyway, she wanted me to make some oak paper for their journals or diaries or whatever dey will be called. She is a sweet lady and I am somewhat caught up with my work, so I sent her a note back saying that I would be glad to do this for her. I had some good cured oak in the chests, so I went over to the craftin hall and made up a bunch of sawdust. I then headed to the kitchen and baked up a big batch of paper for her. I took extra care with them since they will be used for writing instead of my normal sandpaper. Anyway I got a nice big bundle of paper for her, I just need to find her to deliver it. I haven't seen her or Rain around in ages. Well I best be going to see if she be at de house in Haft Lake.
-
Returning from the craft hall with an armload of oak planks for Kyle and the guild floor, Dalan checks the sales room as he goes by. All is quiet within the hall.....for now!
Well Journal one of our worse fears came to pass. There was a robbery today at the guild hall. So far based on our inventory, not much was stolen. I can't help but wonder if dis was a dry run for de thief. Will he be coming back to walk off with more items and those worth a lot more den what was stolen. I have decided to try to sleep a bit more during de day so I can stay up at night and patrol de halls. Normally dis place is pretty quiet late at night and I just partrol once before bed checkin de doors and windows. Now I got to check de floor too. Using a rat to burrow up from below was somethin I would have never thougth of. Though I am not entrirely sure de thief didn't sneak in de front door with someone else when our attention was diverted.
I missed a part of what happened yesterday, cause I had a delivery to make. I know one of de folk somehow invovled, but I want to talk to her personally first. Based on our travels, I be confused how she would betray me trust in her. I figure later I will do what me stepda used to suggest, make a note of all dat ye know and den sleep on it. Often it will help sort out de truth and what course of action to take.
-
Up on the hilltop overlooking Haven City there is a small fire. The sun is just starting to set and children can be seen down below being called in for supper by their parents. The cows are quietly grazing on the grass and the dogs are sitting watching their charges. Only one traveler from Spellguard enters the gate and he scurries through town as fast as he can. Sitting on a rock with his journal propped up on his knees, Dalan writes:
I can hardly believe how long it has been since I have written on dese pages. Much has happend, but tis hard to write when so much time as passed. I will try to cover a few of de highlights of me life for me should I ever decide to look back on dis time of my life.
Probably de most important thing to happen to me personally happened a while back. I ran into Miss Grena in Port Hempstead. She mentioned she needed some things from Pranz so I asked if I could go with her and I would provide a lunch for us. I had done some cookin de night before and early dat morning. I had a fresh roast of deer and some fresh baked wheat bread. She agreed and said she would provide de ale. Bless her heart, she had some dwarf's head ale that had been just tapped. Dat lass can sure brew up a good batch of ale. I took her to a spot that I have sort of come to like. Tis a wizard's tower dat seems to be usually vacent and overlooks de sea not to far from Pranz. We went up to the top of de tower and had probably de best meal I have had in ages. Though de food was all right, t'was the company that made it so special. We watched de sun set over the sea and was a sight to behold. We ended up talkin de whole night through and dinna leave de tower till the sun was about to rise. It was a night I won't soon forget.
I finally got a hold of Quantum and met him at his house. He showed me Erk's room. T'was passing strange to be going through another's personal chests and papers. In the time he has been here, Erk has accumulated quite a library and stock of potions. I had no idea how much stuff he had. I took a few items of potions of some kind to examine so that I could find out what it was. I figure Jako could help tell me what dey were and what dey were used for. There was some leather armor that could be used at Bloody Gate. There was a supply of dried oak that I belive he was going to take for the rebuilding, but it never got there for some reason. I figure now it be better for me to make it into planks and crossbows. The crossbows and a lot of the stuff I will deliver to that place I do not mention for pickup. T'was what Erk wanted and I know they will put it to good use.
Let's see what else should I note here? Hmm I did make me first compound mahogany shortbow yesterday. Tyrian had bought a bow from me but said she wished it was a compound one. Well I been workin hard and finally got it completed. Now I just got to find her. I think I know two others who want one like it so will be doin a lot of mining in de next week or so.
Finally, I got a real scare de other day. Some dwarves were passin through the Stormshack and told me dat a little girl named Abbie from Haven City gave them a real start. Turns out she saw them enter the Gnoll's Cave and followed them in. She did such a good job of sneakin dey dinna even see her till she let out a shriek when a gnoll's head landed at her feet. Fortunately, she dinna get hurt and dey dinna kill her thinkin it was a goblin or a gnoll welp hidin behind a rock. They got her home to Lady Jenna safe and sound.
I stopped by de house today. There she was scrubbin the floors on her hands and knees. Of course, she was grounded once again. I gave her a hug and said I was glad she was safe and sound, but dat I was mighty disappointed in her. I had sent her dat letter saying how she had to be carefull and to stay away from dat place. I said I was sorry she dinna think I knew what I was talkin about and perhaps she should consider whether I should waste me time tryin to teach her stuff if she wasn't goin to listen. She wanted me to take her for a walk so she could get out of de house, but i said nope. Ye knew de rules and if yer goin to be actin like a child den yer goin to be treated like one. I told her about de new bow I had made, but I also told her dinna think she was hold enough obviously to be handlin such a weapon. Maybe de next time I had one she would be ready to see it. I did give her some nuts I had found that don't grow around Haven. I figured she might want to share em with dat squirrel friend of her's dat she calls Chippy.
With dat, I left and came up here. I got to decide whether it be safe to be teachin her more like I have. She was good enough to sneak out and in de cave, but not good enough not to give herself away. Next time it might be a gnoll who sees her or someone in de slave trade. I love dat girl, but she do worry me something fierce.
This journal entry is set before Abbie finds Chip on the block.
-
Sitting in his room, Dalan has a bit of a dazed look on his face.
Well journal, I figured out what to do with all dem essences dat Erk had. I am going to contract our mutual friend, Beli and see if he can help me. He be pretty good at workin dat stuff. I figure if he would help, we could turn over de completed potions instead of just de start of em. I figure I will send him a message by bird and try to meet some time in Krandor.
What I really wanted to write about however be last night. I had been workin hard all day in de mines on Dregar. I was tired and hungry when I got back to de guild hall so I thought I take some supper up on de battlements outside de main square. It is usually quiet up dere and de breeze can be nice. I had just filled up me canteens when I ran into Miss Grena.
Well I figured I couldn't let dis change go by. I had collected some hops for her brewing on me last trip to Dregar and some flowers dat I thought she might like. So I gave her everything. She must have liked de flowers cause she carried dem around de rest of the night. I invited her to join me and she said yes. She had a few bottles of ale she had just tapped from de keg and we went up to have supper. Wouldn't ye know it we were half way up de steps when it started pouring. She is a good sort. Instead of getting angry she laughted and we ran for de guard room above de gate. Dere were no guards dere so we sat and ate supper in there while de rain poured down.
I had some fresh smoked trout and rice wrapped in parchament paper. I gave her dat while I ate some other stuff I had smoked a bit earlier. We drank her ale and just talked. T'was an even better night den de one at de wizard tower outside Pranz. I find I can be open with her. She mentioned her temper but I said dat gave her a bit of spice. To many folk running around 'fraid to say what dey think and bein all polite like. She is like a fresh spring breeze wipin out de stench of the large city.
I think she had a good time too. We ended up teasing each other a good bit. T'was nice. She gives and good as she gets and had me hopin a time or two. I find myself thinking of her while I am working. I stop what I am doing and just seem to stare off into space as de vision of her comes into me head. Or I be fighting with de giants and think, I wish Grena could be here too, she would enjoy dis fight.
She seems to like me company anyway. Just wish I knew if dere was de potential for it being more den that. Dere are days when the sound of settling down with a fine lass appeals to me. One would never be bored with de likes of Grena, I know dat! We make a good team too. She be a great brewer and she seems to like me cookin. Hmm well who knows what might happen someday. Though when she could have her choice of about any dwarf male around, tis doubtful she pick me. Oh well tis nice to dream.
-
Well Journal some interesting news and some sad news that I thought I should write down.
First de sad news, Abbie found her friend Chippy de squirrel. A man had caught him and some other game and fixed em for supper. From what I gather, Abbie saw dis and was about to attack de fellow when she saw his family. Dey were starving and he caught de game in order to feed his poor family. T'was a terrible thing for Abbie to witness and it probably made her grow up a bit faster den she was ready. De world can be a hard place. She lost a friend and some children survived for another day or so. I hope she gets through dis all right, she was pretty upset when Eghaas brought her home de other night.
Now for de interesting news. A couple nights ago I was talkin to Eghaas and de Stormshack when Grenna appeared. I tried to warn her but she went ahead and gave Eghaas some ale. He handled it like he always does, poorly. I am sure glad he just gets quiet and is not a mean drunk. He passed out by de fire for abit and then later got up and went inside to sleep if off. Grena and I sat dere most of de night talking and sharing her wonderfull ale. We must have had a few cause at one point she fell off de log it looked like. When she came back up, she sort of leaned up against me for support so I sorta naturally put me arm around her to help hold her. We must have spent a couple hours talking like dat. T'was right pleasant it was.
Den the next day I went to Stone and helped clean up de rock blocking de entrance to the temple. We got a lot of stone mined and moved. Kyle and Ferrit were dere and Rain showed up too. His horse was a big help pullin a cart full of broken rocks. When we got done, I headed back to the guild hall and took a long soaking bath. I know a bath! But me muscles were sore and it felt actually pretty good. Later, guess who showed up looking for Hanna? Yep dat is right, Grenna. We talked to Hanna and her new boyfriend Krys. He seems like a nice chap and I think he really does care for her. It was getting late and dey wanted to be alone ye could tell and I was tired. I walked Grenna outside and we talked a bit there too. Somehow, she ended up giving me a hug and I sort of held her for a bit. I was tryin to decide if I should try to kiss her, and had half leaned in, when she up kissed me on de nose. Well I gave her a quick peck on de mouth to sort of say goodnight and I think, not sure now, she gave me a longer kiss. Frankly dat whole part of the night is a blur to me. All I know was t'was a wonderfull moment and a great kiss. She left after dat so I went over to de reflectin pool and spashed water on me face and neck. I was in such a daze.
I am not even sure who kissed who really. I do know, I thnk I am fallin for her in a pretty bad way. Most of de time she seems a bit reserved and I figured tis cause of losin her family like she did. No new attachments to get hurt by. So I figured nothin much will come of it, but then she talks of gettin out her shovel. Dat is a long story in of itself. But has to do with a joke taken seriously by Sharnar and how she got her man. Banged him over de head with a shovel. I can't figure out whether to be worried about gettin hit on de head or not.
-
The snow is lightly falling over Port Hempstead. For once, as the lanterns are lit, the city is fairly quiet and peaceful and actually pretty. Inside the guild hall in front of the fire, sits Dalan writing in his journal. At his feet half asleep is a large wolf, "Swift through the Forest." Both are full and contented at the moment.
Tis been a bit since I have written here and thought it be good to jot down a few thoughts. I haven't had time for a trip to Dregar recently, so I have had to take a bit of a break from my woodworking. I thought instead to work on some of the other skills that need improving. For instance, when de time comes to make yew sandpaper, my cookin better be a lot better den it is now. So of late, I have been gathering sage, corn and wheat. In fact, I made me first pie the other day, a rhubarb one. According to Lady Lee, it wasn't too bad neither. I am sure ye was being kind, but she dinna pitch it either but she and her son went ahead and ate it. She might force it down to be polite, but I don't think her son at age four would have.
Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find Grenna to share a piece with her. I am hoping it is just she has been away or busy and not a result of our last night. Though I am startin to wonder if I rushed things and upset her a bit. I also haven't been able to find Acecia either. I know how she likes pie and thought be nice to share a piece of my first ever pie with her too.
I have also been workin a bit on my tinkering and the making of arrowheads. The platinum ones are pretty easy these days but no luck workin silver ore to try those. Ideally should be workin on addie for arrowheads but dat ore is so hard to get and any we do find should go to Kyle for armor. I did make me first mahogany short compound bow about a week ago. As soon as I can get de plat, I got an order for another one. It just takes so much ore to make the cams. I also managed to make a mahogany longbow too. Pretty soon I should try for a mahogany crossbow. We got several of the light crossbows so no need for them.
The days seem fairly routine of late. But there be nothing wrong with that. Tis sort of nice to have a routine and a place like dis guild hall to actually call home. I even get to see Miss Abbie more these days. Her da has been bringing her here for lessons with Rain. His daughter Sarah is taking lessons with Abbie and they are often here at the hall in the main room. Though I have got to remember to get Swift here to the forest on those days. He had hurt is rear paw about two weeks ago and was healing up here at the hall while I was out for a bit. I got back and de poor wolf was a mess. Them girls had combed his hair, and tied tiny pink bows and ribbons all over the poor guy. He looked so ridiculous. I know dey dinna mean any harm by it, and he was to good natured to snap at them. But I know he hated it. Took me a good half hour to get dat stuff out of his fur. They had used some of dere hair stuff on him too to make him all shiney and to get some of to stick up around his neck. Anyways I tried to make him understand that I won't leave him alone again around de girls. I am not sure he understood me, but he seemed calmer at least.
Well time to make my rounds again, so I best close for now. Do hope I see Miss Grenna again soon. Funny how ye start to miss folk when ye get close to em.
With those final words, Dalan closes his journal and puts away his writing equipment. As he got up, Swift did too and the two of them made the rounds of the guild hall checking the floors especially where the patches were from the break in.
-
Waking rather refreshed but a bit unfocused, Dalan gets up and goes over by the tub to splash some water on his face. His bellow of outrage would have been heard throughout the guild hall. There in the mirror was what once was his face but now was something to be never seen outside his room.
"I am going to skin the hide off those girls when I get my hand on them" he growls. Then the absurdity of it gets to him. He chuckles, "they did get me pretty good. Now I know what poor Swift must have felt like."
He slowly begins to unbraid his hair and beard. Wincing every once in a while when one of the knots they made binding the flowers in his beard catches and pulls. "Not bad enough dey did this to me," he exclaimes, "dey turned me helm into to a flower pot." Will take me forever to clean de dirt out of it so me face don't get muddy when I sweat."
"I could tell Rain and Barion what Sarah and Abbie did, but dat just get them scolded and they think of some other mischief. What worries me is that they got past me lock and that I dinna wake up while dey did this. Dere has got to be magic afoot." Dalan ponders the situation for a bit then "OUCH! dat hurt" undoing dat last braid and removing a small pink bow from his hair.
"They have got to learn de responsible use of their magic. It had to be magic dat got them in here and kept me asleep. Hmm can't go in house, it might get back to dere folks too soon. I wonder if Lady Lee or even better perhaps Lady Rhynn could help me. A small ilusion perhaps, like making them look like they were two pimple faced boys of about 13." He grins "dat might do the trick! I will have to give it some thougth, I can afford to wait a bit and let de dust settle down before I teach them a lesson in de use of magic. Besides I may be gettin old, but I can still out sneak Abbie."
-
A bemused look is on his face as Dalan sits in his room and ponders what to write.
Well Journal, I am not sure exactly what to right yet. I haven't caught up with Lady Rhynn yet to ask her about an illusion spells to use on dear little Miss Abbie and Miss Sarah. But I figure I got lots of time and want to set up something a bit public for their lesson.
I finally found Grenna the other night. Turns out she was not mad at me at all. Well not much anyway, I get the feeling she felt like I should have given her more then a light peck and so she hauled off and kissed me hard. That night was such a blur to me, I wasn't sure what had happened. She had been gone back to where she grew up and hadn't seen me before she left. Well I gave her my last piece of my first ever pie. She seemed to like it and we sat at the fountain here in town for a long time talking.
I don't really recall how it happened, but before de night was over she was snuggled up next to me with my arm around her. It seemed so natural and like a good fit. Sort of like she was suppose to be dere with me. It got late so I walked her back to her room at the Scamp. We talked there a bit too, but no need to write those words down.
I see there being three or four ways we can go from here. One, we never see each other. That don't seem to likely an option. Two, we stay friends and nothing more. Three, we stay friends and a lot more, but not tied down; we sort of enjoy each other when we want but no ties. Fourth, we committ to one another only whether dat be marriage or not. I sort of started mentioning this to her, but under the circumstances, I felt it best I leave so that we could think dis out calmly and not rush into something we might regret de next day. Or she regret if I am being truthful.
She said she was going to be gone again for a while but told me where. I wonder if I should write her a letter setting out what I think be our choices and let her ponder it a bit? That might be a good idea. I suppose dere be someone I could ask, but will have to think on it a spell.
Dalan closes his journal and just sits there with a sort of dreamy vacent stare on his face wondering what to do.
-
Sitting on a large rock on the island in the middle of Corax lake, Dalan checks on his trout cooking on a fire before him. Figuring it needs more time, he pulls out his journal to write of the past days.
Well Journal as normal, not sure where to start. Been a very busy past few days. While at the guild meeting, I found out that I had been volunteered as one who might cut mahogany planks for the rebuilding of Stone. Course Ferrit was right, I was glad to help. It is good experience for me taking on a project that size. They figure they need about 100 planks. So far I have cut about 45 of them. The first ones went faster since they had some sandpaper allready made. I went through that and now I have to make it up as I go. After each batch of planks I make, I sweep the floor and collect the sawdust. I then go make more sandpaper and start the cycle all over. I do get out of the workshop occasionally to go collect more gum and sand. And then there was the dance lesson.
Oh yes, sis, Miss Hanna that is, dragged me to the hall to help with dance lessons for Miss Abbie and Miss Sara. She found a few other boys their age to help. The girls picked it up pretty fast, but I still have two left feet. I never was too good at dancin, but I got lucky as was partnered with sis. She is so light on her feet and dancing with her makes anyone look good. I am just glad I dinna step on her feet none. She has got her wedding coming up and hate to have her limping around with a broken foot.
Speakin of her wedding, she and Krys want me to stand up with her on her side of the fence so to speak as part of her wedding party. Krys has some of his friends standing up with him I said fine, but no dress or skirt. If tradition requires it I mght, might I say be willing to wear a kilt just for Hanna. I ain't never seen someone on de bride's side not wearing a dress, but it ain't going to be dis dwarf that is for sure.
Stops to check the fish and adds some butter to the rice heating up in a small pot.
Then there be Abbie. It was her that wanted the dance lessons. It seems there be this "cute" boy who asked her to the dance. Now I was all set to cast this illusion on her when she was in someplace very public. But she is at dat ackward age now, a bit gangly and head over heals about boys. I just can't do it to her. It would hurt her so to be so embarrassed in front of some boys now. I think instead, I will show her the spell and tell her how I was going to have it cast on her at the public fountain when all the folk would be around for the spring fest. I think telling her what I could have done, will get me point across just as well. I will also have a long talk to her about privacy. For instance, what if I had been takin a bath or been naked in dere on de bed instead of just taking a wee bit of a nap? How would she like it if I snuck into her room while she was changing clothes? I be guessing the embarrasment factor will get across to her that way. Especially if I ask her how she feel if brought a boy along to aid me when we entered her room uninvited.
Well my fish is just about finished, but I figure I should write why I am here anyway. I got word last night that Hanna was out this way last night. I have been trying to track her down since that last night with Grenna. I figure Sis is in love and maybe she could help me sort out my feelings. I don't seem to feel the way she does. She is so bright and happy makes the sun seem dim by comparison.
We had a long talk. When we got done, I had much to ponder. In fact I have spent dis entire day thinking and fishing. Lost a few fish due to the thinkin, but t'was worth it. All dis courtin ideas and practices seem awefully complicated. I know Grenna was just joiking when she told Shar to just hit de guy she loved over de head with a shovel and drag him home, but that does seem like not so bad an idea. Quick, bit of headache depending on how hard she hits, but over and done with and ye know where ye stand.
*Long sigh* Well I do know dis, I can't imagine my life now without Grenna in it some way or fashion. I figured dat half a loaf be better den none, and I would for now be glad for any crumbs she toss my way. So if she just want to be friends, so be it. I hope and pray for more, but she got to decide what she wants. Whether it be friendship, or companions with or without being married, I want to be part of her life. De question is now, how in de blazes do I find out how she feels? And if she wants only to be friends, who is going to pick me up from de tavern floor after I get drunk for a week?
-
Written in rather a shakey hand is the following note:
Well Journal I went and done it! I found de strongest and wisest raven around dese parts and begged him to carry a message to Miss Grena. Cost me a whole loaf of fresh bread and some other sparkling items.
I told her I thought we needed to decide what each of us wanted. To be friends or more. I hope and pray tis more, but I finally decided that I be happy with any crumbs of her life she would share with me. Now I got to wait to hear back from her or she returns from her trip home.
I have no doubt dese going to be de longest days of my life.
-
Sitting in the kitchen at the Freelancers, Dalan sits on the floor with bags and bags of sawdust all around him. He leans up against the wall and pulls his journal from his pack and starts to write:
I thought I write a bit here before I start up again. Quill has asked me help in cutting about a 100 mahogany planks. I have been spending most of my time cutting planks, making sandpaper and then starting all over again. I am a bit over half way done now I figure. I am going to have to work extra hard this week since I took a big part of last week off from this job.
Sits back and reflects a bit on the prior week.
Ah it was a good week too. Rain and I took Cole and Abbie on a trip for five days through the woods and the desert. We worked on tracking, finding food, archery and some other skills. Abbie did a great job, especially with her bow. She has a good eye and I can tell she has been practicing. We did a big loop around the Haven area. Poor Cole, Rain was showing off how he can make an arrow catch fire. He has a great aim, but scared a skunk and it got poor Cole dead center. That poor kid had a terrible time getting the smell out.
About the second night out we had an unexpected visitor. Grena paid us a call. Abbie must have heard her coming into the camp while I was cooking supper. She snuck around behind her and jumped her. That fool girl has got more bravery then sense some time. She should have alerted us all first. Lucky thing it was Grena and not some gnoll scout. Course I am not so sure what the scout would have done with 90 pounds of screaming girl wildcat on his back. I do know I dropped de skillet an had me axe out, faster den I have moved in a long time. Rain had an arrow knocked as was ready to fire faster den I thought possible too. Well it turns out it was Grena just making sure she had our camp and not some gnolls.
We had a good laugh about it and then sat down and had supper. I was dying to know if she had gotten me letter yet, but I dinna dare ask her in front of everyone. Dere are some things Rain just don't need to know, not to mention Abbie.
We did manage to slip out of camp later that night to talk a bit. The stars were out for a change, must be the desert weather. We sat and talked a bit, stared at the sky a bit, even did some snuggling. Funny thing is, I never got around to askin her about the letter and she never really mentioned if she got it neither. We just sat and talked and had a wonderful time. Frankly, I don't think I could rightly say what we talked about now. It was more a night of a warm glow deep inside me.
I do think that vixen Abbie has some idea how much I adore Grena. She kept sneaking glances at us when she thought I wasn't looking. Course she has got no room to move on this one. I kept seeing her give Cole them looks to. Poor Cole, I think he is about to get ambushed by a young lady when he least expects it.
Well I best get back to work now, these bags of sawdust not going to turn into paper without some help.
-
I had me a few moments, so I thought I write down some thoughts to help me keep pass some time. I am too tired to go back to work, but not yet ready to get to sleep.
Dere been no word from Miss Grena for a bit and I still don't know how she really feels about us or for dat matter if dere is an us. I find myself pacing a lot wondering what she is doing and what she is thinking of. I didn't have this much trouble learning to use my axe safely. Oh well I got no choice, I can't force her to write to me or tell me what she is thinking.
Maybe it is that frustration, or maybe that it is just woman in general, but Abbie is been getting mighty strange lately. Was over Haven way so I stopped to see if she was around and wanted to go for a walk. She said yes, but had to get cleaned up first before she could go. Cleaned up? "Whatever for I asked her?" She just smiled and said she be out soon. T'was almost an hour later before she came out in some type of frock. I got know idea what she was thinking. I had figured we were going into de woods and work on tracking.
Only thing she could be tracking in dat garb was a guy. I hate to think she be getting that old allready. Course the looks she was giving Cole did worry me a bit. More for Cole's sake however. She had that predatory look a lioness has before she jumps on an unsuspecting deer. I do hope Barion and Jena have talked to her about men folk. It sure ain't any of my business, but I would sure hate to have to kill some guy who tried to take advantage of her. On the other hand, might not be much left of him after either Abbie or Barion got done. I think perhaps dis be a good time to go on a long trip, say till Abbie turns 16?
-
A loud yell of frustration echoes across the valley outside Port Hempstead. Dalan has just finished reading a letter that had arrived by a bird messenger. He stomps back and forth across the valley reading and rereading the letter.
If anyone was close enough they would hear him muttering,
"Darned woman why couldn't she just write and tell me how she felt? I can't tell from dis bloody letter what she wants for us!! Dis part here makes it appear she enjoys me company, but she don't say if she wants to be more den friends. How is a dwarf suppose to know what to do with something like this?"
With these words he shakes the letter to the heavens in frustration.
"I got no real idea if she loves me or not. She says I be special. What de blazes does dat mean? She says she enjoys me company. Well I enjoy de company of an ale too, don't mean I want to spend de rest of me life with a mug of ale in me hand. Well not most days anyway. I swear if I live to be as old as an elf, I won't understand what goes through de mind of a woman!"
As he calms down on about the fourth trip across the valley, he smiles to himself.
"Well at least now I know she got me letter to her and she dinna come out and tell me to take a hike. So dere must be some chance for us having a future together of some kind."
Dalan carefully folds her letter and places it beneath his armor near his heart.
-
By a fire in the woods somewhere close to Fort Vehl sits a dwarf watching a young lass asleep. He smiles and pulls his journal from his pack.
Tis been too long since I have written here and dere is so much I should say. There was trouble with Sara recently and fortunately Swift and I came along before she was too badly hurt. Still she had a pretty bad bump on her head and I believe a slight concussion. The boys chasing her had a pretty good scare, so I am hoping they will think twice before going after her again. Swift nipped one pretty good on the back of his leg as he was runing away and my axe sheared the feathers from the cap of another. The sight of a dwarf in full armor with his eyes flaming and Tempest crackling with power should put de fear into 'em. She be all right now and I managed to get her home in one piece without further injury.
It did set me to thinking. I decided it was high time I went and talked to Barion about Abbie. She just turned twelve and it be time I talked to her about Sakura. I been dreading this, but she got a right to know what happened and how I failed her mom. Well I went and begged him to let me take her for a trip to where Sa'kura fell. He wasn't too happy about it, but I told him it might make her feel better about the ambush she led a party into. It wasn't her fault, and from what I hear, even an experienced scout would have probably fallen into de trap. Sounds like they came from a old trail and didn't come from the direction that Abbie was traveling. Fact is there was no sign of them till Abbie stumbled onto them.
Anywaz, it took a bit of arguing, but Barion finally agreed to the trip. I had never showed Abbie, Tempest or told her the story of it's naming. I figured I take her to where Sa'kura fell dat last time and tell her the story of Tempest there since that is where I dedicated and blooded Tempest. I assured Barion that I keep a close eye on her and that I had just been there. The trolls clan that used to be there and been pretty much wiped out. The ones that remain are from a differant and much weaker clan. The will-o-whisps there are more of a danger dese days.
We were about two days out of Haven, when Grenna and Jin stopped by. It was good to see her. We had a chance to talk, and I will write of her more later. They spent the night with us and Jin got started talking about Sakura. Was sort of bitter sweet hearing them, but brough the memories of her back in full force for me. They traveled with us during the day and spent the night. They left, headed in a differant direction the next morning.
We got to Port Hempstead without any problems and Abbie did real good leading the way. I let her run and see her friends while I picked up some supplies and such from my room at the guild hall. Later that day, we headed for Fort Vehl. Abbie got turned around once, but caught it right away so we made it there just at nightfall. By mutual consent, we made camp in the woods a ways out. That town is no place to take a young lady into during the day, much less at night.
As we sat down for supper tonight, I warned Abbie of the dangers we would face the next day. I told her of the mercanary/bandits in the area. I dinna go into that I wasn't to sure they dinna get involved in slavery, but told her no sneakin off alone. I asked if I could trust her to keep watch during the night. We would sleep four hours on and four off. This area be too dangerous not to keep an eye out. She seemed real honored dat I would trust her that way. She also mentioned that how could I trust her after the ambush. I tried to explain it could happen to anyone, but I am not sure she believed me. I figure it going to take time to get the death of that father out of her mind. I hoped when I toldl her about her mom she wouldl better understand what I mean. I also dinna tell her I am a light sleeper in the woods and most likely I would wake at any stirrings. I also dinna mention that Swift had caught up to us and would be awake all night nearby keeping watch too. I figured she needed the confidence booster.
Well today, we made it to the swamp. We only saw one will-o-whisp and no trolls. I took her to the place where I found Sakura lying dead that fateful day. I took some roses from my pack and split then with Abbie. When she asked me why, I almost broke down completely. I knelt at her feet and told her "love, this is where your mother fell defending someone the last time. It was here she died." She gave a big sob and grabbed me around the neck and started to cry. We stayed there a bit without talking, just holding each other. I told her I thought it was time she knew the whole story about what happened that day and the story of my axe.
It was getting late so I told Abbie we needed to get out to dry land and find a safe place to camp for the night. She didn't want to go, but finally left we me. We walked out of there hand in hand, with Swift roaming ahead looking for danger.
Tonight, we built a fire and ate our meal mostly in silence. After supper we talked.
At this point Abbie lets out a small moan and Dalan puts his pen down and goes to check on her. He covers her up again and just stands there staring at her.
-
The time for the first watch is over. An internal debate rages within Dalan's mind and heart. Should he wake her or let her sleep? Still, she felt trusted to stand watch, to let her sleep would probably send the wrong message to her, especially at this time. Letting out a low howl and a few barking sounds, he lets Swift know it is time to protect the pack. He then wakes her up for her watch. He will later write of their conversation before he settled down to sleep for a bit. It went something like this:
Abbie, I canna say what be going through yer mind right now, but I feel I got some idea. Ye see, I lost me folks, both of dem when I was such a wee lad, that I dinna even know them. I was raised by foster folk, wonderfull folk, but they were no family and no dwarfkin. Ye got to remember ye got a da that loves you greatly and cares for ye. Don't lose sight of that fact and whatever ye do, don't lose yer conection with him. Tis far too important and it will only get more important to ye as ye grow older.
Yer ma and I were good friends as ye know. I was leading off de group dat day, taking the brunt of the troll charges while de others used dere bows or came in from de side. We had thought we had finished them off and had moved to de mouth of the next valley to rest, when I discovered yer ma missing. I hurried back, but she had seen someone coming to join us that we dinna know about. The two of dem were ambushed, something like ye were dat day. Yer ma was a good warrior and keen witted. But no matter how good ye be, bad things happen. It ain't right, it ain't easy but it happens. No one got control of dis life and we got to learn to handle what happens. To dis day, I question what if I had been wee bit faster or a bit more observant? Did I miss a group that set up de ambush or did dey come later after hearin our earlier fight with dere clan. Yer ma took on one of dat clan's beserkers. Dey were de big ones, towering over us normal folk. He may have killed her, but he dinna live long afterwards. Her last stroke must have got em good, cause his dead body was lying next to hers.
Ye have seen dis axe of mine and heard me call it Tempest. What ye don't know is how I named her and where. I took some friends of mine, dat dwarf mage I mentioned before Erk and another elf ye have met named Eghaas. We went to dat spot I showed ye where yer mother fell. Dere I prayed to Dorand and Vorax both to aid me protect other travelers in dese lands so an innoncent might be saved next time. I named her Tempest for the mighty storm's rage that my rage at these foes might be used to save others. I dedicated her to yer ma's memory I did Abbie lass. Then as I was finishing my prayers a giant troll appeared out of de swamp mist that had been gathering around us. It was one of dem big berserkers like killed yer ma. Ye see Tempest hadn't been blooded yet. She had never been used against a foe, and her like a miracle came the best foe I could think of to blood her proper like and to honer yer mother.
Well we went at it I tell ye. De fight was long and hard, but in de end I took de trolls head. Ye know tis strange, but not long after dat dis swamp seemed to lose some of it's dangers. Oh, dere be de will-o-whisps now that have moved in and the occasional troll, but nothin like it used to be. I have often wondered if dat was the last big protector of dat clan. They keep pretty well hidden dese days, and I have always figured dey moved away or deeper into de swamps. All I know is dat I haven't seen one dat big since.
I used to think that wiping out de clan of trolls that killed yer ma would make me feel better. It don't lass. Nothing can make dat ache within ye go away. It get better with time, but de loss is with you. Yer getting to be such a spittin image of her that I end up rememberin the good times now, not her death. I just take it a day at a time, I when I used Tempest it is to remember dat it is to protect those I care for, not revenge, not hate. Oh I still get mad at trolls and giants, but it don't control me dese days. I control it.
I know ye blame yerself about dat ambush. Oh don't look so surprised yer da told me about it. But lass, I doubt from what I heard that I or anyway would have discovered it in time. Dey had plenty of time to set it up and their backtrail was from the other direction. Dere was nothing for ye to see in time to warn folks. I canna tell ye de feeling she have are wrong. But use dem to make yerself a better tracker, a better scout. Use it as a lesson as to what happens and recall that no matter how good or experienced ye are, ye can't prevent everyone from getting hurt. Hurt is going to happen no matter how good ye are. All ye can do is to strive to prevent as much as possible, but no one be perfect. Dere will be days when yer dead tired and ye want to drop de care and say ah it is safe no troubles here and drop yer guard. That be the time to recall what happened in the ambush and why ye must keep up yer guard in de wild all de time, no matter how safe it looks.
Well I have given ye a bit much to think about and dis ole dwarf is tired. I am going to try to get some sleep and will let you think on what I said in peace. Dere is some hot tea made there by de side of the fire if ye have a mind for it. I stuck one of dem apples there too. Keep a sharp eye out lass, tis not that far from the swamps we be.
-
Dalan sits on a bench inside Hlint writing a note. Beside him is a young Raven eating some bread crumbs that Dalan has torn up for him. Looking at the Raven, he conveys the thought that it won't be much longer before the message would be ready to go.
My dearest Grenna,
I recently ran into my friend Lance, He told me that ye learned I had fallen in de cave outside of Haven and of yer rescue attempt or was it a suicide attack? He said ye were crazed and lead an all out attack on them gnolls.
Truly I be honored to know ye and to love ye. I wish ye be a bit more carefull, however, and trust in me own skills a bit more. Though lass I must be honest twas a close thing for me and it did me good to hear of yer rage directed at them cause ye thought dey had gotten me.
Well in fact dey did hurt me bad. I must have been out a long time, for when I awoke, I was covered in blood, much of it me own. I managed to push off the bodies of two dead gnolls who had fallen on top of me. With de aid os some healin potions and a invisibility potion, I managed to get out of de mine and make it to Lady Jenns's house. Fortunately she and Abbie were at home. If I understand dem right, I passed out on dere doorstep. I suppose it was either de lack of blood or de lak of yer fine ale. Me thinks twas the lack of ale.
I guess I must been out of it for about two days, cause I woke up lying on a cot with me wounds bandaged and a powerful thirst. Lady Jenna would only give me water or fruit juice. Bah de juice wasn't even fermeted. It took another two days before dey would let me up off dat cot. I finally got to leave dis morning and hiked to Hlint here when I know some of de raven clan here. One of de young ones, has agreed to take dis letter to ye. If ye have a bit ale handing, please give him a few drops, he as got de taste for ale but not de head for it. Hmm reminds me a bit of Eghaas it does.
Anywaz I now be fine. De wounds on my right side be healin well and de bump on me head from yer shovel is now finally gone. Must have beed de rest and all does healing type potions dey used on me. I truly be sorry for makin ye worry so. T'was a group dat I dinna know well and in tryin to protect one of de youngsters, I got meself surrounded I did. Not a smarth thing to do at all.
I hope dis letter finds you soon so dat ye can stop worrying about me. I want ye to know I love ye and dat no gnoll going to take me away from ye. Besides, I finnally got ye to let me know ye care about me. No way going to let ye off de hook dat easy. Yer stuck with me now lass.
Yer servant,
Dalan
-
Sitting on a crate in Lenigrad waiting for a ship, Dalan pulls out his journal and decides to jot down a few words.
Well I haven't written here in while. I have been too busy since Hanna asked me to cook up most of de food for de wedding. We figure we need at least fifteen loaves of bread, that many roasts and at least that many pies. My Grenna is making the ale for the wedding and she has made a good start of it.
Speakin of her, I have seen her a lot the last few days. *Rubs his ribs* The first time was at de Scamp in Port Hempstead, I was baking a batch of bread when she came up behind me while I was taking out a loaf. I had just put it away when she wacked me a good one on de back of me head and den started to pummel me ribs. Turns out she got me letter after I fell in Haven, but thought it was sent before I fell. Was she mad! She chased me around de kitchen like a bat out of hmm the deeps. I got bruises on me bruises. She finally settled down and started cryin. I guess dis whole time she thought I was dead and gone. We made up and den put it behind us. Other den the bruises while she was mad, the makin up was pretty nice.
Den we met up in Dregar while I was coming home with hops and chestnuts for her for her brewin. We had a long talk and some nice hugs and stuff. We came back to Port Hempstead and finished our work. We then sailed to Lenigrad here. She had stuff to drop off at her guild. I got to use the barracks room. Dey had a bath and some clean clothes I could put on. De pant legs had to be rollled up a lot, but it felt good to be clean. We settled down on a sofa in dere visitor's room. We talked for abit and she leaned up against me. It felt so good holdin her tight and talkin. T'was the most relaxed I have been in a long time. Bit too relaxed I guess. Last I knew, she had fallen asleep listen to me heart beat and I was out no long after. I woke up a bit stiff and sore dis morning, but it felt so right holdin her like dat.
Dere be no doubt in me mind. She has captured me heart entirely. I canna say I know what our future holds, but I will never regret knowin her. Me Grenna is one special lady.
Well me ship is ready to sail, so I best be going. I got more bread and pies to make for de weddin. I want de food to be perfect for me sis, Hanna.
-
Sitting in the Wild Surge Inn at Hlint, Dalan waits for some bread and pies to finish cooking.
Well t'was nice of the inn here to let me use dere ovens. I have been roasting and baking for ages it seems. Hanna's wedding dinner is going to be de best I can possibly manage. So far I got all de roast done. We have got venison, pork and bear meat. Thought it bit strange but Hanna specificaly requested bear. Me thinks that perhaps Kyrs favors it.
I have also made her corn, rye, wheat, rice and oat bread. I figure I still need to make about five more loaves of bread and about dat many pies. I have made rhubarb, apple and blackberry pie for her dinner. I would make others, but not sure where to find any other fruits.
While I was at it, I made dinner for Jenna, Abbie and de rest of the kids. Something be terribly wrong dere, but I am not sure. Jenna and Barion must have fought or something, cause dey asked me to take de kids on an outing. When Jenna came to get em, I could tell she been cryin. Her eyes were red and a bit puffy. She said something about chopin onions, but I pretty sure dat was for de kid's sake. Anywaz the next day I was still in Haven gettin wheat. So I came to Hlint made up a big dinner with roast, bread and pie and deilvered to dem. I figure a break in feedin dem kids be good for Jenna. We dinna have time to talk, but I do hope all be well. She seemed sorta sad at de time.
Well it smells like me apple pie is done. De wheat bread should be shortly so I best put dis book away.
-
Sitting in his room at the guild hall, Dalan decides to pull out his journal and write a bit before bed.
Figured I should write a bit before going to sleep tonight. I got just about all the baking done now for Hanna's wedding to Krys. It should be a good time. I do hope Grenna makes it back from her trip with her guild in time. I do miss her. Tis been a while since we been able to talk and hold each other tight.
I have also been too busy to go see Abbie too. Saw Sara today sneaking out with some food. I figure she and Abbie are probably meeting up with some boys and going to have a picnic some place. Dey are sweet kids, even if dey are full of mischief. Rain says Abbie been doing right well with her lessons. I know Sa'kura be proud of her. Heck, I am proud of her. She is a good kid with a good heard on her shoulders and a good heart besides.
Tis a real shame about Barion and Jenna having problems. I haven't got de whole story, but I gather they havin a real hard time of it right now. I do hope dey work it out. From what little Sara said, it sounds like Barion has been gone a long time now and Abbie I am sure is missin him.
I think I should take de day off tomorrow and go visit Abbie. Maybe we can get some fishin or huntin in. That should cheer her up a bit.
Well best get to de bed den so I can be up early. Tis a long trip to Haven.
-
Seated on the benches at Hlint, Dalan takes a brief rest before setting out once more for Port Hempstead.
ABBIE BE GONE! I got to Haven today and Jenna said Abbie has been gone now for couple days. She seemed upset, but I canna tell if it is cause Abbie be gone or if has something to do with her and Barion. I canna say that I was real polite when I found out she knew she be gone but hadn't done anythin about it yet.
I tried to pick up her trail outside of Haven, but she be awfully good dese days at coverin her tracks and de rain we had I am feared wiped out any tracks she might have left. Still, I know de way she would normally head for Port Hempstead, so I thought I check de spot she often has camped at. I should get there yet this afternoon. If de sign be cold then I will head back to de guild and talk to Rain and Sara. My guess if anyone know somethin, it will be Sara. I am also hopin Rain might have some idea of a tracer spell we could use to find her.
I canna say I am particularily upset with her as much as I am worried. It don't seem like Jenna had much time for her and I got no idea what Barion be up to. I find it hard he would just up and leave her, so I suspect de church has got him on some important errand. I am sure dis has all been hard on de lass. I just want to find her and make sure she be all right. She be good for her age, but she is still no match for many of de creatures and evil things floatin around dis world.
I got to admit, she got me plumb scared. I got to find her before somethin terrible happens.
-
Sitting on the docks at Fort Vehl, Dalan fumes and curses in dwarf barely under his breath. He is obviously extremely angry and Tempest his stitting across his lap as if daring anyone to approach him.
I see to be one step behind Abbie all de way. I got to Port Hempstead only to find no sight of Sara. No one I ran into as seen her for the last day or so. I can't find Rain, so I got no idea if he knows where she is or not. I headed out of the city and made a wide circuit around town, I picked up what looked like a trail of someone who was trying to watch another person. I couldn't tell if it was Sara and Abbie or not.
I decided to head out to the Stormshack, where I got a bit of a break. It seems a ranger was coming toward town when he saw two lasses heading toward Fort Vehl. They were doing a fair job of moving through the woods very quietly. The elf said he was impressed with there sikll based on their obvious young ages. He is pretty sure they dinna see him.
I got here to Fort Vehl and asked at the temple about the girls. I thought perhaps Abbie was hoping to find Barion there. I couldn't get a straight answer out of one of the young human guards. He mentioned a young lass spending the night in jail and then a jail break. I tried to get more out of him but he told me it was church business. De lad has no idea how close he came to having his head removed from his shoulders. Dere is no way he could have stopped me, he was so wet behind de ears he might still have been nursin for all I could tell.
He kept sayin his superiors were in an important meetin and couldn't be distrurbed. The thought of Abbie being in jail with de scum of Fort Vehl as got me blood a boil. I have seen Grenna try to tear a temple to de drow down with her bare hands. I figured to use an axe and speed matters up. But since she not be dere, I left with a spit on de floor and sayin how little I thought of de idea of jailin young lasses under age with scum of Vehl and no wonder de church going to pot with ideas like dat. Must have shocked de guard a bit, he turned white den red with anger. I showed him Tempest and offered to step over to de arena if he wanted. He took one look at me axe and turned a bit white again. I said I was no wee lass not even 15 to lock up, and turned and stomped out. I wonder if dat temple door going to need to be fixed. It bounced pretty hard when I slammed it.
I came on down here to de docks to cool down. One of de dock workers wandered by and for de price of an ale said he had seen two young lasses board a ship. He thinks t'was for marinor's Hold but wasn't sure. I figure if dey went to Port Hempstead, dey are all right. If not, den must be headed toward Marinar's Hold since dem be de only two ships dat left port about de time Abbie got herself out of jail. Goin to have to ask her how she managed dat.
Hmm, looks like me ship loaded and almost ready to sail. I best be boardin her. Wonder how many of Vorax and Dorand I could get to help me tear down de jail here?
-
Sitting before a small fire while his supper cooks,Dalan writes in his journal once more.
I must say I am truly learning what the sailor's mean when dey say that a stern chase is de longest one of all. I feel like I am getting close to Abbie only to find I have missed her by a a day or two. I left Marinor's Hold and checked de area outside of the city. When dere was no sign of her, I decided to try de farms. One of the farmers had needed help years ago with his scarecrows and I thought perhaps he might know something. Turns out Abbie had spent de night with him. He thought she might have said something about visiting some rangers.
I got to the ranger's grove only to find she had left de day before with a patrol. Dey were pretty good about giving me directions on where the patrol was headed. I met up with dem on dere way back to camp. Turns out they wiped most of a bandit gang out and then escorted Abbie back to Marinor's Hold. Dat would have been good news but a young one mentioned Abbie had talked about going to Dregar. My heart nearly sank down to me big toe and he thought of trackin her there with the way dem giants have been of late.
I hightailed it toward the hold and the Freelancer's where they left her. I figure I would stop to eat and rest here for an hour or two and den push on through de night. The good news is a raven showed up a bit ago with a letter from her. Said she was all right but needed time alone to think. She figured de woods be de best place to do dat. I wouldn't mind it but the woods in Dregar be de worse place I can think of for a young lass like Abbie to be wanderin around in. Best I can tell is dat I am now about a half day behind her. If I push through de night, I can hopefully hit de Hold before day break.
I hate to stop to cook supper, but out of trail rations and I be bushed. I don't think I have slept more then 4 hours a night de past week. Gettin too old to keep up dis kind of pace. Besides in two hours, de moons be up full. De clouds bad and can't see de moons, but things seem a bit brighter even so. Wouldn't do to break me fool neck chasin Abbie down in de dark.
I still got to figure out what to do when I find her. I will not consider anythin but findin her. Part of me would like to tan her hide so she canna sit for a day or two. De other party of me figures she must be hurtin bad inside and needs dis time alone desparately. I might just shadow her and keep her from any major harm while she moves about, dat is if I can catch up to her in time. I be pretty sure I can still outsneak her and keep a cold camp so she don't learn I am watchin her. Time will tell. Well dis rabbit done and if going to get me eyes a rest at all, I best eat now. I be getting to hate trail rations, but best pick up a bag of em at Marinor's Hold. Sure won't be able to build a campfire if I do find Abbie. She wouldn't miss dat no matter how carefull I be.
-
Dalan sits alone in his room with his feet soaking in a basin of water. He chews on the end of his quill as he thinks about what to write here and in a letter to Grenna.
Well to make a long story short, I have dun tramped over a large part of Dregor looking for Abbie. She wasn't dere, which explains why I cunna find her. I had tracked her as far as the Freelancers where someone reported to me she bought de use of a portal. Based on what she had told dat young ranger, I figured she gone on to Dregar. I must say she had be worried sick being there.
I spent I don't know how many days looking for signs of her, but no one had seen her. I finally decided to come back to de guild hall to resupply when I found a letter waitin for me from my dear sweet Grenna. Turns out Abbie ran into her and Grenna being de dear lass she is, took her under her wing. She has been stayin with Grenna at her guild house and doing a few small trips with them.
Grenna suggested I leave her be for a bit, so I guess I will. Nere is to smart not to follow Grenna's suggestions. *rubs ribs* Nor to good for me health.
I guess I will send Abbie a letter saying how glad I am to know she be safe and with Grenna and for her to let me know if she wants to visit some time. Meanwhile, I guess it be best if I stay away for de time being.
I figure to send a letter to Grenna too, tellin her how gratefull I be. I would offer her some money for expenses, but dat just make her mad I be afraid. Instead, I guess when things settle down will make her a grand supper and take her on a trip some place. Dem Farstriders sound like right good folk aidin in de care of Abbie. Figure it best I tell her to thank them for me as well. I be glad I did have time to make dat meal for Grenna to serve dem before all dis started. Perhaps some day I will get de chance to actually be de pack she runs with.
I suppose it be a good idea to tell her how much I miss her. Tis been a while and I miss our talks around de fire or at her guild house forest. I been feelin like somethin missing and couldn't figure out what it was still I started thinkin of what to write. Den it dawned on me, tis her that was fittin an empty place in me life. With not seeing her, dat void coming back. I hope what ever botherin Abbie clears up soon. I miss dem both somethin fierce!
-
If someone would walk by, they would see Dalan sitting on the ground with his back to a building in Lenigrad where he can watch the docks. At his sides lies an emty whiskey bottle. His hands and feet are a bit numb and he has trouble grasping the quill. It is still a ways to dawn and there is little or no traffic yet on the docks.
Well I gone and done it now, me guess. Had a nasty row with Grenna last night and me whiskey be gone too. I figure Hanna none to happy with me neither. I canna say I am rightly sure how dis all happened either.
It all started out with me gettin de letter from Grenna saying Abbie be fine and with her da in her old village. I quit lookin den and decided to end back to Port Hempstead by de way of Hurm. Dat was me first mistake. De ships no longer be running regular like and I guess I missed de last one leavin for a bit. By de time I could get someplace else to catch a ship, Hanna's weddin was long over. I canna face her. I gave her me word I be dere and den I wasn't. I feel plumb awful about it. All sick and torn up inside.
For some strange reason, sittin on de docks here helps de pain subside for a bit. Course I suppose dat is just cause me feet and hands go numb and don't take much for me mind to follow. Sort a pleasant stupor it be. Me second mistake was letting Grenna catch me at. She gave dis whiskey to warm me up a spell. Not me fault she gave me four whole bottles of de stuff. Must say de first bottle did warm me up all nice inside. But den I got to thinkin again and got all upset. Told her was movin to Raven point. I figure I can live dere alone and not have other folk relyin on me no more.
Made sense to me it did. Grenna seemed to get all hot about it. Said I had a duty to Abbie. Dat I was runnin out on her and Hanna both. I said allready hurt Hanna, no cause to do so more by stickin around. She had a point about Abbie, but at dat point wasn't to interested in admittin she had somethin dere. Besides Abbie got her da. Barion been actin bit upset dat she so close to me anywaz. And when she was alone, tis Grenna and her pack who took care of her and she went with, not me. Me third mistake was probably telling Grenna all dis. Never did know when to keep me mouth shut.
She said somethin dat riled me fiercely, though not sure what it be now. The good part of the second bottle might have had somethin to do with dat. So I got up and left and headed for de docks. Even managed to catch a ship sailin for Raven. To bad dinna see Grenna board. She gave me a right good piece of her mind she did. Said she was leaving dis mornin early to fetch Abbie home to Haven and if I was any sort of hmm dis she say man, uncle, not sure rightly, but the general drift was I ought to go too. She turned her back on me, and reboarded de ship. Wouldn't talk to me on de way home. When she docked told me off again, and said if I wanted to come best be here dis morning. Too bad I dinna ask her de time she was leaving. Been sittin out here de rest of de night waitin. Near half froze I am and me last mistake was not buying more whiskey before de tavern closed down for de night. Still I figure dis way canna miss her.
I sort of like dis cold feelin. Nuthin seem to hurt so much. I figure when I dun got Abbie home, I might move to Raven Point. I got to wunder however how much whiskey and kegs of ale it would take to get me through dere winter. A small cabin on de edge of town shouldna cost dat much. Dat way dis cold feelin stay and maybe I won't hurt so much inside. Life of a hermit don't look dat bad. No one gettin hurt and i bet ye get used to bein alone after a few years anywaz. Hmm dat ship over dere loadin cargo, best go check to see where it be bound.
-
Sitting alone in a corner of the ship sits Dalan writing in his journal. As far away as possible on a small ship stomps Grenna back and forth.
Well I caught her gettin on de ship today. At first she looked happy to see me, but den she realized I must have sat out side drinkin in de snow. I should've brushed de snow off me beard and tried walkin a bit sooner. Me feet were a bit numb and I sorta stumbled up de ramp to de ship.
Hey, I tried to tell her I was sober, but dat beltch dinna help me none. T'was more dat I hadn't eaten since de mornin before and dat much whisky has a strange affect on me stomach. She just glared at me, said glad I decided to come see me kin and stomped off.
I do see her lookin at me when she don't think I be lookin. But for de life of me I canna tell what be going through dat woman's head. I am here and I will help take Abbie home. Beyond dat Raven Point soundin better all de time.
She can be mad all she wants, I am going to go dere soon as dis trip be done. A dwarf got to do what a dwarft got to do. T'was nice of de captain though to share his bottle with me. Going to make dis trip a bit more passable I think.
-
Well we got to port without killing each other. She kept yellin at me to stay out of de captain's spirits. Thing is, I barely touch a drop of it, more to ease de hangover den anythin. But I figured, why tell Grenna; it gave her somethin to yell at and least she wasn't ignorin me. So I just kept me mouth shut and kept waivin de same old bottle around. Though she was right about one thing, I was pretty down about way things been goin lately.
On de way to Abbie's hidden village, we ran into some slaver's. Must admit did me body good to forget about me troubles and let me axe fly. Dere was one lass about Abbie's age and had her spunk too. We are up on de hilltop scouting em, when I saw her spit in de eye of one of the slavers. Dat slaver shouldn't have used a whip on de lass. We hadn't decided yet if pass them by or not. Grenna was urgin a fight, but I wasn't sure of dere numbers.
I have got to get ahold of myself. When I saw dat whip hit de girl, I went plumb mad. I can't recall lettin me rage go like dat since the day Sa'kura fell to de trolls. I forgot all about sneakin down or waitin for dark to try to rescue the slaves. I charged down dat hill like a grizzly defendin his territory. We burst amoung dem slavers with axes flyin. Got to give Grenna dis, she fights with de best of dem and wasn't too mad that she dinna get to kill her full share.
De poor lass, however, was dead. De slaver had cut her throat. T'was the last smile he ever had since Tempest took his head off at de shoulder's in one stroke. We buried de lass up on top of de hill along with some of her clan folk, De rest we lead to freedom to a nearby town. I hope dey make it all right. Hate to leave em, but we got to find Abbie. Leastwize now dey got a chance. All de way to Abbie's village I kept seein Abbie's face on dat dead lass. I kept thinkin it could have just as easily been Abbie captured when she was out roamin alone.
De other thing I kept thinkin about, was would de lass be still alive if I had waited till nightfall to strike at de slavers. It would have been safer by far for dem if we had come down from de hills, taken out de sentries and freed de slaves. Den maybe de girl and de others of dat clan be still alive. It seems like lately I am not doin to good in de decision areas.
I have decided to leave de bottle alone, but Raven's Point lookin better and better all de time. I don't trust me reactions lately. If I be dere, den can't hurt no one but meself. Safer for all I figure.
We're a couple days out of de hidden village now. Found us a nice campin place here by a small lake. I got de fixin's for making some bread on de stones and de lake looks like dere be some fish in it. I got to go now, Grenna be tellin me I should bake some bread and cut it up for supper. I wanna go fish and den decide. Looks like a bit of a fight brewin, but de fun kind. Neither of us be real serious just lettin off a bit of steam. De kind where when yer done, makin up is so much fun!
-
Dalan sits at a table outside Pranz at Barion's home. He is making some quick notes while Grenna and Abbie finish packin up their packs.
Well Journal, I must say I have had a pleasant time lately. Grenna and I met up with Abbie and Barion not far from dere village. Grenna and I were discussin supper a might vigoriously when dey arrived. My how Abbie has grown. She near cracked me ribs with her hug and I got to admitt it did me soul good to see her again.
We had a real pleasant trip back toward Pranz. Abbie and I often took point, and while we couldna talk much there it was like old times. The two of us in de woods ghosting along, markin the trail and lookin for stuff. We managed to visit a bit when we stopped for breaks and a couple nights de two of us sliped off to do some fishin and talkin. It do seem like she got things worked out in her head and with her da. I be glad of dat. Abbie needs a father these days, and no matter how much I luv her, I am not her da.
When we got to Pranz we headed out of town to Barion's place. Grenna and I restocked and repaired some gear so we could head out early dis mornin. But then last night, Abbie found a wee bird outside on de steps. De bird was near wore out. But de bottem line is dat somethin has happened to Sara. Dat be Rain and Sonya's girl. From what we can gather, she be on her way to Marinor's Hold, and I am none to sure tis a voluntary trip. Course it could be another of her pranks too, but it dunna have dat feel. Abbie is holdin up well, but I can tell she be afeared for Sara. I dinna tell Abbie, but I had a recollection of dat girl dat died at the slaver's hand. So dis mornin, before dawn rises, we be headin out. Dat is as soon as Grenna and Abbie get in here. I tried to get Abbie to stay, but she would have nothin to do with it. I would have left when she was asleep, but den she probably would have followed and dat be even more dangerous for her.
There is a small note that follows in the margin and written so be hard for most folk or even a dwarf to read it.
Dis search for Sara means goin to have to postpone me trip to Raven's Point. Do hope to get dere before winter sets in. Lously time to build a cabin.
-
Dalan opens a chest in his room and pulls out a small journal. Blowing the dust off of it, he opens it and quickly pens a few notes.
Tis been a long long time since I last wrote here and much has happened in me life. I would write more of the past year or two, but dere be no time. Some type of criminal group as marked me dear niece Abbi for death. I know not all de facts, except dat she testified at some kinda trial that was then postponed. Dere is now a price on her head to keep her from tellin more at de trial.
Me dear friend Tegan sent me a note of warning that was shortly followed by Abbie's note. De birds must be flying think here in town. I be packin up supplies and headin out as soon as I can leave a note for me guild mates. I hope dey might hear who be behind dis. Me axe is sharp and I got no problem removin a few heads of those who threaten me girl. I dunna care how high up dey be!
-
Somewhere deep in the forest, Dalan sits before a dying fire and scribes just these few words...
Well Journal,
We found her. T'was a long search through many a forest path, but Barion and I along with Brian and her close friend Huntemara finally found Abbi. She was well and hiding in a place I will not mention in case she should ever need it again...Dorand forbid! The important thing is she is alive and well...now to just keep her that way.
-
Sitting in his room at the guild hall, Dalan ponders the past day's events and the wonder that has filled him with the greatest joy he has ever known.
Well Journal,
Tis been long since I have written here. Frankly dere has not been much to write about. I am slowly getting back into the routine of things. I have been making bows for Kit in Haven, arrows for Abbie and my friends like Eghaas and me brothers and sisters here in de guild. So couple days ago I decided to take a bit of a break. Before I could go, however, Kyle asked me to go get some plat with him. So de two of us went into dem moores and into the center of the troll cave. Been long time since dere and was good to work along side Kyle. He is a wonder to behold when he is fighting. After dat I caught de last ship out of Marinar's Hold and spent de night dere.
I was up before dawn and went fishin along Thorn river. Caught me some nice fish too. While I was there I dug up some clay to make more arrowheads. All in all t'was a nice morning and I dinna think things could get much better. Is dat an understatement! For who should come along as I was leaving but me own Grenna. We talked for a bit and den decided to just go explore.
T'was a great afternoon. We fought some giants and some trolls and ended up in Stone by late afternoon. I haven't been dere since we worked on rebuilding de temple dere. We worked our way down to de lake and spotted some fish jumpin off a small island.
The waster felt pretty cold so we built up a safe fire and then swam to the island. We caught one large mess of fish. I couldn't believe how many we got. We then swam back and dried off after I cleaned de fish. We spent de next few hours sittin by de fire and cuddling more and more. Me Grenna leaned her head on me shoulder and I had my arm around her while we talked. T'was the most wonderfull way to watch the sun settin over the mountains.
We talked of many things, but mainly how lovely de village of Stone was. There be something about de high mountains and the waterfalls dat captured me. I mentioned that dis be a quiet spot to retire to and run a small cosy inn. Grenna even agreed with me to my surprise. I began to think we did have a future together.
As night wore on it sort of got kinda nippy and snow began to softly fall around us. It was somethin right out of a dream or poetry book. The fire snapping in front of us, the snow softly falling, the love of my life next to me; what more could a body want den that? I was soon to find out!
In front of us was an old tent probably left by some camper or fisherman. I mentioned dat the trail up the mountain to de village might be gettin slick and we should think about headin out and then in passin I said or we could camp out in de tent. Grenna just hugged me tighter and whispered that she thought the tent sounded best. She plumb took my breath away right there.
So I got up and dug out some blankets and an old fur I keep for winter campin and made us a real nice snug little den in dat tent. While I did that, Grenna built up de fire to warm de side of the tent with some rocks to reflect the heat toward de tent. Thing is, we dinna need no fire to keep warm dat night. We had explored all day. That night, we did some more exploring without having to go anywhere. T'was the most glorious night of me life!! We have been close friends, but now I have no doubt dat I have found the luv of me life, the one I want to grow old with, to spend my life with for however long de gods grace us. It was a night of wonder and mystery.
We got back to Port Hempstead the next day late. I found I couldn't keep my hands off her. We were walkin down de lanes holdin hands like two kids. Everything seemed new and wonderfull to me. We dinna need to talk really, it was just enough to be together. We met friends and smiled at each other but dinna share our grand adventure. It was enough that we knew.
As all great and grand adventures it had to come to an end. Grenna had to go to her guild and I to mine. This day I will be in the kitchen all day I think. All that salmon and fish has got to be cooked. I promised my luv some hickory smoked honey salmon for supper and I shain't disappoint her.
-
Sitting at the inn in Krandor, Dalan empties his pack on one of the tables. Digging far down into it, he finds a well wrapped journal. Borrowing some ink and a pen, he begins to jot down some random thoughts while drinking a locally brewed ale.
Well Journal tis much to write about this day. I know tis been years since I have written here, but time has a way of slipping past one. Besides dere wasn't much I wanted to write about. But now matters have changed drastically in me life. I have a family who might some day wish to know more about me and so I take up me pen once more.
First of all de joyous news. I am a pappa. Grenna and I had twins just hours ago. She and the young ones are safely asleep in the home of Ferrit and Kyle. I have cleaned up the floor where they were delivered and all is back to normal in their home but for the small dent in the floor where me head hit when Grenna hit me in de jaw and knocked me out cold.
No I am not drunk. We have the most beautiful twins dese eyes have ever seen. After a hard stuggle, our daughter was born. Dat was when Grenna hit me. I missed part of the delivery after that and woke to find her in the process of giving birth to our son. I have been saying prayers of thanks to Dorand and Vorax since the birth. Primarily that my dear sis, Elohanna was there to aid Grenna. I am 'fraid that without her I might have lost one or all of them. But her firm but gentle guidance got us both through the delivery.
She asked us what we were going to name dem, and I was a bit of a loss. I had thought about a boy's name if we were so blessed but had never even dreamed of twins.
I had thought that Galan for a boy would be grand. The G from my dear luv Grenna and the rest from my name seemed a proper way to start our family. As for de girls name, I asked the light of my life. She said he wanted her to be a proper warrior lass and could we name her Varka after the best of our race. Well tis a bit unusual, but I thought dat it would be proper as well. I then proposed that we give her a middle name of Hanna for me adopted sister Elohanna and Abigail after Sakura's child and me adopted niece Abigail. To me delight Grenna agreed dat would be a proper name and a good way to honor Abigail's death.
Aye, I have not written about my dear Abbie's death. She lies now in a peaceful slumber along side her mother, my dear friend Sa'kura. Her death took me hard and not a day goes by that I am not reminded by something of her or her mother. In fact, dat was my chief worry about being a parent. Will I fail my children as I feel I failed those two? I been told dat the fear is nonsense, but it is something I am afraid will haunt me all my born days.
Still life goes on and with the birth of my daughter, I feel like a bit of my Abbie has come home to me as well. Looking back on this note, I notice I failed to mention that Grenna and I got married. Not soon after I stopped writing here, Grenna did hit me with her shovel. She gave me a good wack on de back of my head. In fact I carry a scar where she got me. By her clan's customs, we were married right then and their. She had staked her claim of me by doing so before witnesses and hitting me on de head with a shovel. I never did ask her what happened if de male objected to the staking of the claim. As for me, I dinna care since I had been chasing her meself for some time. I was right glad, once I woke up, that we were married by her customs.
We have decided once we found out she was pregnant, that we should have a ceremony to make it more formal like by the ways and customs of those that live here in Port Hempstead. Not to mention, it would be a grand chance for a celebration. Now, we can combine it with a celebration of our children as well. The current plan is for a ceremony to be held at her guild hall and the reception at mine. The Angels have a great big large room at de back of the hall that will be perfect for a reception. Dere even be a few extra rooms with beds for those that have a few to many ales. We haven't decided on a date yet. We had thought to wait until closer to de time of her birthing. We just hadn't expected her to go this early. Still the wee ones are strapping good size and healthy to boot.
Well I best be going. I have got to find Ferrit. She and Kyle have graciously allowed Grenna and I to share dere house in Krandor till we can find a place of our own. De problem is, I ain't sure which room she met for us to use. Right now we are using a couple of old pallets I found and some of my spare cloaks to make a nest of sort for us to sleep on. I need to find a proper bed and make some cradles for de twins. *Rubs his jaw* I do know one thing, we are not going to try to match Rain and Sonya on de number of children we have. First of all I don't think I can take de stress and second of which, next time she might knock me out for a matter of days not an hour or so. That luv of mine packs a mighty hard punch. Oh well, I will try to write a bit more often dese days in case someone wants to read about me life in de future. Ye never know Galan or little miss Varka might be interested in their parent's past.
-
Sitting at the guild hall, Dalan takes a few moments to remove an old journal from a chest he keeps there and to pen a few words.
Well Journal,
Tis been years since I wrote here. Me and Grenna got the two most active twins I ever did hear about. As I tell me friends, dey take after dere ma. Course I say dat when she is not in ear shot. I prefer to keep me teeth.
We gettin along good, me and Grenna. Tis been grand watching the kids growin up. We finally got time now to get back to our own lives a bit. I have managed to get to the guild and travel a bit with dem. Been to Thuder Valley now twice to fight. Was good to get de ole axe back into de swing of things. Made a couple of bows and some arrows. Don't seem that I lost me touch with de wood.
I do need to get out and gather some stuff to make pies with. Been way to long since I made me Grenna a fresh pie. Did manage to gather a few pecans, but still short for a pecan pie. 'Fraid she will be stuck with rhubarb. I know she prefer apple, but just dinna have de time to travel dat far for de apples. And dat is if I can still recall de way dere.
Well regardless, I wouldn't give up dese years with her and de twins for nuthin. She was de best thing to happen to me dat I can image. Hmm I can smell Ferrit makin supper for herself here at de hall, which means I best me moving me arse home before she wonder's where de blazes I have been. Tis me turn to care for de wee ones tonight. Not dat dey are so wee no more. I swear dey growin llke weeds. Oh well, will write later, I hope when I get more time.
-
It is late at night and a small fire burns in the woods not far from Port Hempshire. A lone tent is set up and two small figures toss in their dreams. A tired dwarf sits before the fire writing a few notes in an old battern journal before retiring for the night. An old wolf bask in the heat of the fire, but ready to keep watch over the tent during the night.
Well Journal,
Tis been a long day. I took de twins today to give de missus some breathin room. We done hiked de forest and I showed em some trails and signs. Dey seemed to pick up on what I said pretty gud. I figure we can hike more tomorrow den hit de city by late afternoon. I want to get dem each a fine handaxe from de guild. It be time dey start to learn how to handle one. Den if dey don't tear up de place to bad, we can have supper in de city and campout in me room at de guild. If I get em up early the next mornin we can be out of de city before traffic gets too much and dey get into trouble.
Me Grenna sure seemed to like de pie I brought her back. I need to get back to makin em more. Tis strange but suits us, she makes de ale and I make de pie. Comes from dem days of makin sandpaper I guess. I need to get back to it dere be somethings I want to learn to make and I be ready to start workin with yew iffin I can find any. Hear tell darn near impossilbe to get.
Well tis late and I best get some sleep. Dem kids of mine will be up before sunrise with me luck.
-
Sitting before the fire after the twins have gone to bed and Grenna busy cleaning the latest head of a giant for a kickball, Dalan pulls forth his battered journal and jots down a few notes:
Well Journal,
Things been going good of of late. Kyle made de twins each a right nice axe. Tis perfect for dere hands now but yet got a bit of extra haft on it for dere growin. Grenna went out to collect some heads of giants for kickballs. She came home mutterin somethin about dem not being to willin to give em up. Oh well, she needed de excecise, she been gittin bit soft of late.
She been gettin tricky too, blast dat woman. She put a new fangled lock on dem last batch of barrels she made ale in. Or I should say on de tap. She left on her trip and I thought I'd have all afternoon to me self. Have a few tankards, polish up a bow for de twins to learn on and in general have right pleasant day. Instead it took me near all afternoon to figure out how to work dat lock. I got it done, had me one mug of it, before I heard de twins coming. I barely got dat lock back on and back in me place before de whole family came in. With a bit of luck she won't know I been in dat last batch for a month or more. Oh well, it was worth de work. I swear no one makes ale like me luv, Grenna. I be a lucky man we got together, not dat I will tell her dat to her face, she got me nailed down good without lettin her know it too.
Well I best be gettin back to dese bows. I be using a short bow form to make one to fit de kids. Galan is a bit taller den his sis so got to adjust it for him next. Varka's be dun 'ceptin de last of de polish. Figure dey be hard on de bows and might get let out in de weather till dey learn better. A bit of xtra was on dem bows might be aidin dere life span. Dat or until Varka uses it to hit her brother. She be growin to be more like her ma every day, bless her heart.
-
Tis late at night and Grenna and the twins have long since gone to bed. Dalan sits before the fire and stares into the flames. Lost in a world of memories, some fond and others too painful to share even with the love of his life, Grenna. Finally he lifts the quill to the journal lying on his lap and writes:
Well Journal,
T'was a day I will not soon forget. I received a letter from a Lance Stargazer inviting me to call on him at the OrcBasher Guild regarding the death of Barion Firestead. I heard rumors he died while I was out of de area, but this confirmed it. Puzzled, I dug out me formal mourin clothes, dusted dem off a bit and paid me respects. De lad was right nice, he looked around and found a bottle of gin to offer me. Dinna tell him had no real taste for gin, but de offer was nice and I dinna want to offend him.
Seems as if when dey were goin through Barion's effects, dey found a letter I wrote to Barion years past, shortly after de death of me old friend Sakura. I wrote to tell him about how his wife died and attached a letter to dere daughter Abigail for when she came of age. I recall Abbie mentionin it to me, so me guess is he found my letter to her when she died. Readin that letter brought back de memories of both of dere deaths and almost more den a soul can bear. I got out of dere as soon as I could, but I did leave a pouch of de gold I had on me for a memorial to Barion. He was a right fine man and his passin will leave dis world a bit darker den it was before.
Den de world proved to me dat it continues on, I ran into Wren Thendore. I told him how Grenna and de twins were doin. We even shared a laugh about Grenna and her locks. I still say it wasn't me fault dat I drank dat one keg of ale. Twas me birthday and I had a terrible thirst. I dinna know de keg was for her guild mates. I swear I dinna! I even told him how she chased me out of de house with her broom beatin de dust off me back and swearin to her I dinna know.
Though lookin back dat was a quiet night and day at me ole fishin hole. Gave me time to make Grenna up a pie and some of dat smoked honey salmon she luvs. Bless de twins, not so sure she would have let me back in de house after only a day or so, if dey hadn't been such a handful while I was gone. Some day, when dey grown, I should tell em how dey saved me.
We got talked a bit after dat about Sakura. I was back in de Hlint area not so long ago. Dat tree where I first held Abbie when Sakura just had to get some place for abit is still dere. Now of course it be way large and probably won't last many more storms. Dere be so many memories dere of both of dem and in Haven too. Me friend, Eghaas would call em, bittersweet. Tis a good thin us dwarfs don't cry or de pages of dis journal be soaked. Well I best be gettin off to bed.
After Dalan finishes writing, he just returns to gazing into the fire. If dwarfs did get moisture about their eyes, one might have seen a drop or two well up in the corners of his. But of course we all know that dwarfs don't get emotional or weepy about the loss of old and very dear friends.
-
Sitting in a kitchen while a pie bakes in the oven, Dalan writes a bit in his journal.
Found dis journal in the bottom of me pack beneath some rope. I plumb near forgot I had it with me. I been lost for so long. Woke up today outside some castle like building, Castle Hiln I think they called it. I just sat dere, no idea how I got there or what I been doin. When blast my soul, along comes Ferrit, all bright and sassy as usual and does guide me home.
My de wonders. The guild hall got all redone after some big flood. It now has a library and an upstairs, The folks done good when dey redid it. It was truly walkin home the way I was treated. Sad times too, heard ole Benny boy went up and got himself killed. Knowing him it was some grand adventure or a silent decision to slip away into the night all peaceful like for one last walk. Hard to tell about that lad, Nearly beat him when we first met with a shovel or was it him going to hit or be hit, Time does dat to an ole dwarf, de memory starts to go dey say. Still he was a right good leader of the guild for a long time. As I walked the halls I thought back to de days I was active dere and all dat I have missed since.
Speakin of missin, I got Grenna dear's favorite pie in de oven bakin. I ain't rightly sure how I goin to explain me bein gone for so long, but I sure be hopin de pie will least get me in de door and keep me head on me shoulders for a bit. I do miss de twins and her. They must be a sight. And I am sure she will be a sight for sore eyes. Tis been so long since I dun see me Grenna. Just wish I could tell her why been gone to long, but I got no idea just another scar on me neck and up under de hairline.
Well best get de pie out before it burns.