The Musings of a young Druid....

[KageKeeper]

Folian S'pae seems to be communing with me more and more of late...

My dreams have been visited quite often by a large, black wolf. I am never afraid of the wolf and I get the feeling that he is trying to tell me something. I listen with all my being, but I cannot seem to hear what it is I am supposed to know.

The Wolf exhibits great patience with me and, to me anyway, there is almost a look of gentle amusement in his intelligent eyes...

Upon awakening, I often lay there remembering every little detail. It is so real and does not quickly fade away like so many other dreams do.

I just pray I can decipher the message some day...preferably soon.

[KageKeeper]

Another dream again last night...

The Wolf came to me once more. I received the distinct impression that he wanted me to follow him, which I did with a little trepidation in my step.

The Wolf took me to a Great Oak. An immensely grand tree, far larger then any tree I had ever seen before! I was amazed and could feel the warmth of welcome radiating from the Tree itself. I approached the Tree respectfully as the Wolf watched with a knowing grin upon his muzzle.

As I stood before the magnificent Tree, I closed my eyes and concentrated on the being before me. An image suddenly came to my mind of me reaching out and touching the Tree. I slowly reached out my hands to the trunk and as I did so, I opened my eyes. My hands made contact with the rough bark of the Tree and it felt to me as if it pulsated gently under my touch, almost as if it was a heartbeat.

Suddenly, and to my complete surprise, the bark became as liquid and my hands actually entered the trunk to an extent. Fearful I attempted to pull my hands out only to find they were firmly encased in bark! Before my ever widening eyes I watched as the now liquid bark started to flow up my outstretched arms. It was not an unpleasant experiance, however it was one I was not prepared for and as such it was very difficult for me to calm down and enjoy it. The bark continued flowing over my body, down my torso and to my legs and feet. Lastly, it started flowing up my neck and to my head. I struggled even harder to get free, fearful of being suffocated! As it reached my face, I closed my mouth and my eyes and held my breath, praying with every fiber of my being to Folian to protect me. The Wolf tried to send me calming thoughts and to let me know it was ok. I, however, was too frightened to listen. The bark finally finished it's journey and there I stood, encased in bark and prepared to die. I could  no longer go without breathing, and against my will I opened my mouth and took a gasping breath. Cool air filled my burning lungs and it was at that point I realized that I *could* breath and that the bark did not enter my mouth.

With palpable relief I opened my eyes. Looking down at my body I resembled a tree! I felt as if my feet were rooted into the ground and I just stood there in amazement for awhile before I tried to remove my hands. This time, to my relief, they came out of the trunk. I started to back away, in awe, and as I did I realized the bark, even though it was hard to the touch, was still in a somewhat pliable form and I was able to move freely with no ill effects.

At this point the Wolf sent me another image. This showed me in battle! Encased in bark and watching as arrows bounced harmlessly off me and swords pushed aside by my new barky skin. I knew, instinctively, that it would not last forever and care would have to be taken while within this form. Over confidence could spell disaster.

The Wolf followed me back to my bed, and as I lay down to rest once more, I could feel the pride radiating from him.

As he started to leave, I seemed to hear him say, "Well done my Child. Enjoy and use well this gift that Nature has bestowed upon you. You will have need of it before too long."

And with that he faded from view.

Upon awakening in the morning, I could feel, without knowing how, that I would be able to become tree-like. All I had to do was ask.

I smiled then and wondered what other wonders I would learn in my Journey.

Only the Wolf knows....

[KageKeeper]

The Wolf came to me once more last night. It has been many weeks since I have been lucky enough to have had a visit from him...

He bade for me to follow him once more, which I did, with not nearly the trepidation as last time for I knew he wanted to show me something important.

We walked for what seemed like a long time. I realized that I was starting to recognize my surroundings. We were in the High Forest! My home!

I was starting to relax and enjoy myeelf when suddenly the Wolf bade me to be stealthy and silent. Immediately I became wary and stooped into a low crouch behind a large rock. The Wolf was watching me very closely, with a look of anticipation upon his face.

As we crept around the rock and looked down the hill on which we were hiding, I saw, much to my horror, a group of goblins and orcs! They were so far unaware of us, but I knew one misstep and they would be on me in an instant. I scarcely dared to draw breath for fear of them.

It was then I noticed what they were doing. They were burning, destroying and reveling in the wanton destruction of the Forest. I could hear the Trees crying out in pain and fear as the flames licked their trunks and the orcs sharp axes bit deep into their skin. The animals were all frozen with fear as well, not knowing where to run and hide. Several of the orcs were firing upon all the animals with their bow and arrows. It was horrendous and shocking. With a start I realized that just over the next rise was my village, hidden away up in the trees. The very trees that these vile creatures were destroying for their pleasure! My family and my friends were in danger! There was no way I could get around the group to warn them as there was not time.

My shock over what I was seeing and my fear concerning my village turned to a cold fire of anger in the pit of my stomach. I had to stop them. I had to destroy the destroyers, the defilers! But how?

The Wolf spoke to my mind, "Open yourself up to Nature my Child. Nature always provides. Nature gives and Nature takes away. Trust in that always."

I slowly stood, my fury growing and building within me. It was nearly palpable. The hair rose on the back of my neck. I lifted my arms to the Heavens and called out to Nature for aid. As I did this, my rage burst forth from my hands and manifested itself into several powerful lightening strikes!

The destroyers were stunned as bolt after bolt hit home from a cloudless sky and blasted orc after goblin into a charred, smoking stump. I do not know how long I did this for, but when I was done there was just a lone goblin, huddling close to the ground in abject fear. I looked upon this beast with cold, steely eyes and slowly nocked an arrow to my Hickory bow. As I drew the bow back fully and aimed right at the goblin's eye, the goblin saw me. He saw Death coming for him. He was turning to run as I released my arrow. The goblin never took a step as the arrow pierced his eye and embedded itself deep into his brain. His last sight was of his executioner.

As I slowly calmed down and realized what I had just did, I heard the Wolf once more in my head,

"Well done my Child. You have passed this Test. Remember it well. Show no mercy to those that would defile Nature. Show no respect to those that have none. Never hesitate to come to the aid of someone in need. You are Nature's Guardian. You have done well."

With that, I awoke in my bed, covered in sweat. And I knew. I knew I could call the lightening forth when I needed.

I knew Nature would answer my call again....

[KageKeeper]

I was visited again last night as I slept, only this time it was different.

In my past dreams, the Wolf would alert me to his presense and I would awaken because of it. This time I 'sensed' that he was near and when I opened my dream eyes he was sitting there, on his haunches with his tongue lolling out of his mouth. A somewhat bemused expression on his face, I got the feeling he was quietly pleased with my progress.

Looking around I felt somewhat uneasy but I could not place the discomfort. It was almost as though we were being 'watched,' but I know not by who. Wolf seemed to be at ease so I put it down as a carry over from the events of the previous day, being chased by two irrate Ogres would do that to anyone I assume.

I sat on my bed roll watching the Wolf watch me, wondering where he was going to take me this evening. He did not seem to be in any hurry to go anywhere, nor was he in any hurry to show me what he wanted.

As I sat there, I began to reflect on the past few days. So much had happened during that time. During my time in Hlint I have made some wonderful friends. And not just Elven ones! Many humans truly have good hearts. This still suprises me at times as it goes against what I was always told.

"Humans are capracious. They take what they want without concern for the consequences. They want to conquer everything and bend it to their will." That is what I was always told. And truthfully, there are many that are that way. However there are many that are not. Jeran for instance. A very giving individual. He sacrificed himself to the Ogres last evening to save my life. Kahna and her brother Sand. Caring individuals, both of them. Celgar and his lovely Kira. Celgar may be somewhat insane, or so I have heard, and he may have tried to marry me to  Jeran, but he is a good person as is Kira. I chuckled to myself at the thought of the impromptu wedding and the Wolf perked his ears forward and almost seemed to be laughing as well.

I have also learned that giants aren't always an evil lot to be feared and hunted. There is one in Hlint, a half-giant, by the name of Klugger. He is a good friend to have! Very protective and strong! He and I have done business in the past and will do more in the future as he is able to mine, or as he says "Smash rocks" very well. He is honest as well. A very important trait to have.

Recently, and to my continued amazement, there have also been goblins, friendly ones!, in Hlint. I still have a very difficult time not raising up my bow and shooting them down. It is so ingrained in me that goblins are enemies of the Forest and need to be destroyed on sight. Yet, there are two, Squee and Vorkesh, that are decent enough individuals. Perhaps not the brightest things around, but I feel their hearts are in the right place.

This makes me wonder. Perhaps there is hope for all the races in the world? Even Ogres maybe? Although not the two that were chasing me last night! I shudder to think what they would have done to me should they have caught me.

Many people, humans and elves alike, are so very judgemental based on race. I am beginning to think it is not supposed to be that way. Perhaps the gods do not want us all to hate each other, but perhaps we are supposed to come together and work together as one to lessen the encroaching evil in our world.

I know that evil can never be destroyed completely. There has to be evil to have Balance. Without evil there would be no need for good. Good would have nothing to base it's principles on. And, I know that good can never be defeated. Without good there is no evil. Without life no death. It is one big cycle. Interesting...

As my thoughts came back to the present and I left my musings in the archives of my mind I smiled and refocused on the Wolf. He was staring at me very intently and I thought I saw a nod of satisfaction. Quite suddenly I was very sleepy again and I yawned hugely. The Wolf, in his way, bade me to lay down and rest.

As I did what he asked, and as I was fading back into oblivion, I thought I heard a distinctly female voice say, "She is making progress. She will be ready soon, I think."

The Wolf replied in a wolfish voice that I did not catch and all faded to dark....

[KageKeeper]

I have been doing alot of thinking lately. Mostly about the direction I am going and more so the direction I feel I am being led...

There have been numerous things that the Wolf, who I truly feel is Folian S'pae visiting me in my dreams, have said to me that have made me think he is gently guiding me towards a different direction and perhaps even a different god. This made me very depressed for a long while thinking I had done something to displease him. That I had earned his disfavor in some unknown manner. Folian S'pae is all I have ever been taught since I was a child. For as long as I can remember I have followed the Lord of the Wolves. I would not know any other diety or why I would want to change.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I could not be in disfavor. Folian still answered when I called for aid. He visited me and helped my abilities grow. He expressed how well I was doing and how pleased he was in my progress. So it cannot be disfavor. Why then?

Is there some grander scheme set aside for me? Has this been the intent since I was brought into this world? So many questions and I have no one to truly turn to for answers.

I wish my mother was still alive. She was a Druid and I am sure she could answer my questions much more fully. Did she follow the Wolf? Or did she follow She Who Shapes All?

For that is in whose directions I feel I am being guided....

[KageKeeper]

I experianced the most incredible feeling last night!

The Wolf visited me again. I always look fowards to sleeping as I never know when I am going to be graced with his presence.

As soon as I awoke I could sense that he was in a hurry and anxious and this set my senses into full alert. He bade for me to follow him and he immediately set out at a very fast pace. I started running after him and was having a very difficult time keeping up with him and I was soon winded and had to stop and take a break. It was several moments before the Wolf came back to see where I was and I could sense that he was very impatient and wanted me to hurry.

After I caught my breath we were off again and the same situation occurred, with me trying to play catch up to the sleek and fast Wolf. I began to get very frustrated and upset as I did not know why we were in such a hurry and I feared that my lack of speed would have a terrible repercussion. I tried very diligently to keep the Wolf in sight but more and more he started slipping from my sight. I finally had to stop once more on a large boulder and sat their unable to draw enough air into my already burning lungs. All the while trying to think of some way to go faster. I know that some spell weavers can cast spells to make one speedier, but I was not able to do that. I growled in anger at my own failings. The Wolf still had not returned. It had been several long minutes and he certainly should have been back for me by now. It was then I realized that he may not be returning. That the need may have been so great that he went on without me, his slower bipedal companion. Doing such left me lost and alone in a somewhat unfamiliar area. While I am never afraid when out in Nature, I was disconcerted and a little worried.

"If only there was a way I could go faster!," I mumbled to myself.

It was then that I saw in my mind a sight that was hard to believe. It was me, but I was a wolf. I concentrated on what I was seeing and tried to understand it. Was the Wolf trying to tell me something? Or was this just me wishing for something I was not? I decided to accept that it was the former and with dawning excitement I started trying to figure out how I could become something I wasn't.

I tried to force it by thinking really hard. Nothing. I did not know a weave that would do that and I was starting to get frustrated again. It was then that I saw an image, of me being calm and focused. Was this a hint? I tried, without much success at the start, to calm myself and try to enter a meditative state as I have seen others do. It was very difficult as part of me still sensed the urgency. Eventually, after long moments, I was calm and relaxed and at ease. When I reached that state, I concentrated long on what I wanted to do. I formed the image of a wolf in my head. Making sure everything was as it was supposed to be I gazed on that creature with my minds eye and fixed it firmly in place. Then, I attempted to pour myself into that image. As I did this, I could feel changes occurring. I was growing hair all over my body. My face elongated into a muzzle filled with sharp teeth. My arms and legs formed properly with claws at the ends of my four feet. I felt a tail grow from my backside.

Suddenly, my sense where assaulted with more sights and sounds then I had ever thought possible! I had done it! I was a wolf! I sat on my haunches and lifted my muzzle to the night air and howled with all of my being. Distantly I heard several other wolves pick up the cry and the night resonated with the mournful sound.

That accomplished I turned to the task at hand, which was to catch up and find my Guide. Finding his scent was not hard. Within moments I had pinpointed it and it seemed to race through the trees like one of my lightening bolts. I raced though the woods, amazed at the speed I could travel! Sights and sounds assailed me like they have never done before. To my right, I knew there was a small mouse huddled and frozen in fear at my passing, to my left I could hear the calming babble of a small brook. I tore through the night with unabashed speed, tracking my elusive prey.

Suddenly, I broke though the trees into a clearing. In the center of this clearing sat my quarry, on his haunched and his tongue lolling out of his mouth. I approached him reverently and I could see the amusement in his eyes. More then that, however, I sensed a deep pride in me. The sense of urgency was gone from him now. Realization hit me at that point. This had also been nothing but a test, if you will. And apparently I had passed. I grinned a wolf grin and sat down on my haunches and waited to see if anything else was forthcoming.

In my mind I could see me as a strong and powerful bear, a sleek and mysterious panther, a tough and aggressive boar and the tempermental badger. I knew, not being sure how I knew, but I knew I could assume any of these shapes. I also knew that it would get easier for me the more I did.

The Wolf howled long and loud, and with that howl I awoke in my bed. I could feel my new abilities waiting for me to call on them. And call on them I will. I have never felt the freedom I felt when I was tearing through the woods on all fours!

It made me wonder. What other shape could I assume...?

[KageKeeper]

I have still been visited by the Wolf occasionally although it has mostly been just visiting. I have gained some new abilities, however this time there was no test to attain them. Not sure why. Perhaps since they are similar to ones I have already done the Wolf does not feel it necessary.

I had a run in with a most unsavory mage the other day. He was traveling in our party as we were on our way to the Broken Forest to cleanse it when I noticed this mage, Murat was his name, killing some of the lions on the outskirts of Krandor. I took him to task for the senseless slaughter of the lions, which, if one avoided them, would leave a person alone. He sneered at me and basically stated that that is why they are there for. I was incredulous! I could not believe that this mage thought that it was ok to kill animals just because they were there!

I tried to explain to him about Nature and Balance and he did not want to hear anything about it. He laughed when I told him I was Nature's Guardian and told me to put it to the test by walking up to the lions and making friends. Now, while I may have been able to make friends, I told him that I was also not stupid and I do not approach an animal that is wild and aggressive just to have a chat. He laughed at me and told me he was working for some "greater balance." He would not explain to me what he was referring to. I told him he needed to beware of Nature's Fury and again he laughed. So I turned around and walked off after informing him that I no longer wished to travel with him

Everyone followed me, including the vile mage. One of the strange, sentient vines, followed me and it used it's ability to bring forth those black vines. Murat came into the area I was in and was besieged by the vines and was caught fast in the trap. True to what I said, Nature exacted her Fury and he was killed. As he died I heard his soul spout off some curse and I shivered at the apparent evil nature of Murat.

Upon returning to Hlint, I saw Murat's pale shade and I told him I had warned him of the consequences of his actions. I tried real hard not to sound gleeful over his death, but I think I failed. He said something about being very patient and very creative which I took to be a thinly veiled threat. I laughed because I knew I was smart enough to avoid anything he could do and I walked off.

It saddens me, however, that people are like that. There is no respect for Nature anymore and things are changing so much because, I feel, of the evil and uncaring in the world. Like, for example, the vines or even the aggressive animals. I think they react to the world and rise up to bring the careless down.

I hope things improve soon..

[KageKeeper]

I finally found Rhizome, the High Druid of Mistone last evening. Or did he find me....?

He took me to the High Forest, near Legodia's campsite. On the way up we came across another Elf who had gotten a little lost in the Forest and had been set upon by some of the beetles in the area. Rhizome and I helped defend her. Rhizome invited her along and she willingly came. She was a very nice individual and it was a pleasure to have made her acquaintance.

We sat in the rain and talked for hours about the Great Oak and Katia. I surprised myself with what I actually knew about the Great Oak. I thought I did not know anything, but when he started explaining, the information just seemed to come to me. Rhizome seemed pleased with my grasp on things.

After we discussed the Great Oak, Rhizome asked me some questions about what was troubling me and why I was so confused. I told him about my dreams and he agreed that the Wolf in them could be Folian S'pae. He also said it may not be. He also gave me some other possibilities concerning the other presense I felt as well as all the references to Nature.

While answering many of my questions, he left me with many more unanswered. I shall have to seek those answers out...

[KageKeeper]

More and more I have been assuming the forms that are available to me. More and more I want to experience what other forms I can take.

I look at the deer and long to flow into that shape, to bound through the woods, skipping and jumping here and there. I look at so many others and wish to feel what it feels like to be them.

There is another aspect to it as well. I think I would be more suited to helping in my duties of protecting Nature and keeping Balance. Who would ever expect that that small tabby cat lurking around a group of destroyers and defiles was really gathering information on future plans. Or what of the mighty dragon? Would it be possible to take on such a grand and noble beast? How much good could I do then? To see the looks of fear and dismay on a group of vile orcs and ogres intent on setting the Forest to blaze when a small, unassuming field mouse suddenly flows into a Dragon before their eyes? It would go a long ways to restoring the Balance and also help protect the Great Oak as Rhizome talked about.

This is of course only if it is even possible to do such a thing. I saw Rhizome shift into a much larger wolf then I last night, so I know I can take on more forms.

Perhaps, someday, I might even forget my true form....

[KageKeeper]

It has been some time since I recorded anything in here. Much has happened. Too much perhaps.

The first important happening occured several nights past. I was standing around Hlint with some of my dear friends, Celgar, Anna, Jeran, Ketzia, Pathfinder and others, just talking and having a good time when it started..

A wave came over me, very similar to what it feels like when I shift forms, and suddenly, I *did* shift! I shifted into a bear. I, however, did not consiously bring the change about. I immediately changed back, and my friends noted my concern and unease.

We decided we should visit the Vale in the Seilwood, so my friends escorted me as I was not really myself at that time. While traveling through the forest, we came across a MacCaw. Something I had not seen before. I stopped and spoke to it. It told me I should rest my mind and my soul. Then it...left. When we reached the Vale, I indeed did rest near the Temple of Aeridin. While I rested, I dreamed...

I was in a place of darkness, however not evil, just the absence of light. I was surrounded by what appeared to me mirrors. One mirror in particular caught my attention as it seemed to be flickering. I walked over to it and gazed upon it. I saw an image of bears, playing together and catching fish. This brought a smile to my face. Suddenly, I realized I was once again in the form of a bear, even though I made no choice to bring about the shift. I looked around in confusion and spied that MacCaw again.

Are you a bear?, he asked me.

Yes. And No., was my reply. To me it seemed I was both a bear and not a bear. The bird flapped away and the next thing I know, I am awakening back in the Vale. My friends all expressed concern over me, stating that I had disappeared. I assured them that I was merely sleeping and that they must have been mistaken.

Suddenly there were two bears in the Forest fighting each other. I approached and bid them to stop, but they did not listen. One killed the other and then turned and attacked me. Horrified I tried to empathize with it, but I could not. I decided to shift into a bear as well. As soon as my metamorphisis was complete, the bear stopped attacking me.

Why were you attacking me?, I asked.

I wouldn't attack you. Your a bear., the creature replied.

But you were! And you were attacking that other bear., I stated.

To which, the bear replied, Are you sure it was a bear? And with that, the bear faded from view.

Now, being even more confused I walked back over to the temple admidst questions from my companions that I could not really answer. The bird was there again and I asked for clarification. The only answer I received was that I should once more rest. A wave of weariness came over me at that point and I did rest.

I again dreamed. I was in the same place as last, although this time, a different mirror was flickering. Upon looking through the looking glass, I saw a pride of panthers playing. I again took the form that I was viewing and again it was against my will. I heard the flap of a certain bird approaching and resigned myself to answer more questions.

Are you a cat?

Yes. However I am not fully a cat. I retain my control and I do not give into the primal urges of this form., was my reply. I was proud of myself. I had thought that this is what he was looking for. I abruptly changed into a badger.

Did you have control of that? Are you a badger?, the bird almost sneered.

No, I stated, I am a Luna.

The bird turned and flapped away and I awoke again amongst much relief from my comrades who swore I disappeared once more. I was trying to figure out what was happening to me and I was feeling very scared and alone. My friends were trying to cheer me up and offer their support, and it helped a little. The bird appeared again. I once more asked for clarification and was once more told to rest. I did so and dreamed the same place with a different mirror flickering. Approaching I watched a pack of wolves hunt. Expecting the change, I was still powerless to stop it. The bird glided in and the questions started anew.

Are you a wolf?

No. I am Luna.

What's a Luna?

A Druid.

Are you a wolf?, the bird asked again.

If I choose too. I promptly shifted once more. This time back into the panter form and it was accompanied by a wave of nausea that almost made me lose the contents of my last meal.

Are you a cat?

I had no response other then stating I was Luna. The next question nearly floored me.

Was your mother a cat?, came the unexpected question. My mother died at childbirth. That is what I have always known. I informed the bird that I never knew my mother but was always told she was an elf.

To which he replied, Are you an elf?

I no longer knew what I was but I replied that that is what I always was.

Do you know your true form?

I replied, I used to think so, yes. Now I am not too sure. What if I have no form?

At that point, the dream shifted and I was shown Legodia's camp. Rhizome, the High Druid of Mistone, was there sitting underneath a tree. He could not see me as he did not answer my queries. The next thing I know, I awoke once more.

After explaining to my friends what I thought I had figured out, which was that no matter what form I was in, I was still Luna the Druid, I decided to travel to Legodia's camp and see if this was indeed the next leg of my journey. When we arrived, there was Rhizome, right were I saw him. Next to him was the MacCaw.

Rhizome greeted me and informed me he had been having a conversation with Dawn's Blue Wonder, which was, apparently, the birds name. I stated that I was confused and he offered to help. I retold my story to him, while he listened attentively.

At the end of my tale, he assured me that it was not possible to have no form and that part of what I thought he did not agree with. The part that no matter what form I take, I am still Luna. He gave me some examples which made it clear that he was right. When I am in wolf shape, I do think very wolfish. I bite at fleas and I long to chase deer. He informed me that Druids have lost themselves to their shapes before. Something I was not aware of.

Next he showed me a wonderous thing. He changed into this *huge* metal golem. However, he was not able to think for himself and he took orders from my companions and Dawn's Blue Wonder. It was not until the bird ordered him to release his form that he shifted back into his Elven shape. It was then that I started to understand. Taking on shapes is a great responsibility and could prove disasterous for not only the Druid, but anyone around as well. It is not to be taken lightly and should only be used when vital.

Rhizome then told me of some people who could take any shape. He said they were called "shifters" and could become kobolds, minotaurs or even great dragons! He then related the tale of a close friend of his who was a shifter. He would throw himself into shifting and little by little lost more and more of himself. Until one day, he shifted into a minotaur and attacked his good friend Rhizome! A sad tale to be sure.

I had thought that that is what I wanted to do. To be one of these shifters. Rhizome's story gave me pause however and now I am not so sure. I will have to think long and hard on it before I reach my ultimate decision. I still think I could do so much good.

Time will tell I guess....

[KageKeeper]

Things have been going well. My training continues and I feel myself growing closer and closer to Nature every day. I have also been spending a great deal of time talking with Rhizome. Since the night of my dreams I have seen him numerous times and he has shown me some wonderful sights on Mistone. We have some great talks. He is so wise and in touch with Nature. He has told me of the Great Oak and so many other things as well!

One occurrence to note, however. One evening, as we were in the Ranger's Vale in the Sielwood, a demon that we have both dealt with prior appeared and sent some of his small, doll-like skeleton's against us. We defeated them easily and began to follow the demon, which we learned later, was a Belker.

We tracked the Belker to the Red Light Caverns and we entered to find a slaughter had occurred. The goblin's bodies were torn and mangled and arising from the gore were more skeletal dolls. We sent them back to whence they came and pressed on.

As we neared the grate that leads to the second level of those smelly caverns, an image, a sending if you will, of an archmage Lich that we had encountered in the past appeared and seemed to indicate we needed to hurry and get to the bottom. He showed us an image of what awaited us. I recognized it as one of the numerous infernal demons.

Steeling ourselves we pressed on, through the second level where more miniature skeletons awaited, having been crafted from the grotesque remains of the goblins. As we triumphed there, we descended to the lowest level of the caverns and were almost imeediately set upon by more enemies. Suddenly we were in darkness. Panicking, I tried to find my way to the light once more. When I did, I got my bearings and noticed some strange creature. That is the last thing I recall.

The next thing I know, I am in Enzo's house and Rhizome and the lady from the Vale, I always forget her name, were standing over me. I stood up, but an intense wave of dizziness came over me and I would have collapsed if not for Rhizome's strong arms helping to ease my fall. As I sat there on the floor, I felt an intense throbbing pain in my right ankle. Looking down, I saw I had a burn mark. One which had, oddly enough, distorted my Wolf tattoo that I received when I started following Folian S'pae. It burned something fierce and it was all I could do to not cry out in pain. The lady left and Rhizome sat next to me with a grave and fearful look on his face.

He told me when I had been killed, by a demon no less, that another demon had appeared. Rhizome had spoke to this demon, before obliterating it, and it had told him that I was marked and accepted. He was unsure just exactly what that meant, and so it was, with great trepidation, that we approaced Aeridin's Healer for further information. As we sat in front of him, my ankle throbbing, I took comfort in Rhizome's closeness. Having a friend near me at this time made me feel much more safe and at peace.

The Healer informed us that the Belker and the Lich we saw were interconnected. The Belker was called the "Maker" and the Lich was bound to him. Being just a minor infernal being, the belker wanted to ascend through the ranks of the demonic heirarchy. To do so he needed support. His plan, apparently, was to offer five demons of higher power sacrifices. Individuals "of consequence", the Healer said, that would have their souls consumed.

I was the first to be chosen and accepted. There was a token showing the acceptance. I ordinary gold ring. I was told that if I did not keep it on me at all times, I would wither and die. I reluctantly took the ring from Rhizome, and as soon as it touched my hand, it...fused for lack of a better word, into my hand leaving a raised welt.

Rhizome was very concerned and stalwart. He made me smile in this dark time, and for that I am eternally greteful.

I know, that together we can defeat this demon....

[KageKeeper]

*looks at her worn journal with a critical eye before picking it up and opening it. After she reads it she writes once more*

It has been far too long since I have updated this and put down my thoughts and what has been happening to me.

A great deal has occurred in my life and the World since I last wrote here. I could not do it all justice at once, so I will try to update it slowly.

I have received a great deal of training from Rhizome in getting more in tune with Nature. He is my mentor and my great friend. He also taught me what love was.

I have joined a new group of like minded people. We are called The Vakhar. We are comprised of Rangers, Druids and Clerics of Katia, Folian S' pae and Aeridin. We still have our normal duties and training to do, but the goals of the Vakhar and mine are almost exact.

We tried to negotiate with the Satyr's outside of Vale. They cause problems for the pilgrims to Folian's temple. We wanted to see if we could work out an agreement with them. After several meetings, they decided they would not help us. Their reasons are not that important. The good news is that we were able to find a well hidden path the connects Katia's temple with Folian's. I had to fly over head and guide Enzo and Aralin through the trees. It is very think. There is also a cliff to climb up, negotiate and then back down. It will provide a safe avenue to travel though. We also do not need to mess with the Satyrs. It's a win win situation.

I made an enemy too it would appear. I am not real sure why either. When Rhizome and I were close, his daughter Brisbane seemed to take a dislike to me. Nothing I ever did was good enough. She continually criticised me. I am quite sure that if the Mother was upset at me, she would have let me know. But that was never good enough for Brisbane. For some reason, she still seems to hold a great deal of animosity towards me.

I am going to end this entry here. There is more on my mind,which I will write about soon.

And I will have to mention my newest friend....

[KageKeeper]

*Luna sits in a tree, her back against the trunk and her knees drawn up near her chest. She pulls her journal out and considers a moment before she starts writing*

There is still many thoughts I need to put in here. However, I want to write about someone very special to me.

One day, about a month ago or so, I was sitting on the platform in Hlint, amusing myself watching everyone scurry here and there with their supposed importance when a lovely Elf woman walked up and started talking to me.

She called me Sister right away and said she had been looking for me. Looking up at her, I could feel that she was of Nature, like me. We started talking. I learned that she did not have a name that she knew. She was told that there was no need for names which, while true, makes things a little more complicated when trying to deal with others. She told me I could call her what I will. She told me what others call her. Acacea, my dear friend, called her Barky. Nith, another good friend, calls her Long-Dove. It did not take long until I knew what I would call her. She was Sister to me, for that is what she was. We were Sisters in Nature.

Sister had many questions and I tried my best to answer them as best I can. She told me some of her past, which I found rather odd. She was taken from her birth mother as a babe and given to another to be raised. Apparently, this other woman was a Druidess of some importance where she was from. Sister was to be trained to take her place. I was somewhat horrified at some of the things her "mother" taught her. Such as the fact that she did not need a name. Sister also did not understand why the goblins and ogres and other creatures where constantly being attacked. I explained to her that there is no shame in defending oneself against someone or something that is intent on hurting her. She felt that there is good in everyone and that we are all a part of Nature. I confirmed that this is a correct belief and that more people should think this way. I explained to her, however, that there are many that will not wait for you to attempt to talk to them before they try to kill you. She saw this first hand when we went to Lar. I was trying to rest when a band of ogres ambushed us and attempted to end my life before I could get a weapon or a spell off. This horrified her. She was shocked that the ogres would attack and attempt to kill someone that was obviously unarmed and not a thread. It opened her eyes to what I had been telling her. She determined at that time that she needed to learn a weapon as she had never been trained with one. A friend gave her a bow and Sister started learning how to use it. Quite well I might add.

We have been practically inseparable since we met. Her and I are so similar in every way. I gave her my very first set of leathers that I had designed since the ones she was wearing were old and cracked. She only made one slight change to it. When we are both near each other, which is all the time, *Luna smiles happily to herself at this point* you cannot tell us apart. She even has a green hood like mine.

I have recently renamed her. She is my Soul and I am hers. I have taken to calling her Soul for that reason. She seems to like that name, even though she says she really has no opinion on what she is called. I wonder about that sometimes.

She told me last night she thinks she was born on Roldem. With it being overrun with Bloods demons and worse, it worries me that she will try to go there. I know she wants too, and I told her I understand her desire to do that. She told me she wants to find the woman that instilled in her some of the beliefs that she is learning are very scewed and incorrect. I offered my heartfelt desire to accompany her on that journey to help guide and protect her. She accepted gladly. We will wait until she feels she is ready to go, and then we will. The Mother and Longstrider will watch over us.

I thank the Mother and the Prince of Wolves that they saw fit for her to Flow into my heart. I hope she is near me for a very long time....

*Luna closes her journal with a soft smile and looks down to the ground, to where Soul is lying, sleeping soundly where she left her*

[KageKeeper]

*Luna opens her journal once more and stares at it for a long while, composing her thoughts. She slowly starts writing with a heavy heart*

My good friend Jacchri went me a message that he needed to speak with me the other night. Soul and I met him in the Ranger's Vale in the Sielwood. I am not sure if he was concerned that I brought her with me or not, and to be honest, I did not care. She shares everything with me. What I know, she knows.

I could tell Jacchri was troubled by somethings and as he began to speak it became apparent what it was. He told me that another friend of his, Brisbane, had spoke to him and others and had said some things about me. I of course asked him what he had heard.

He started by saying that Brisbane said that the fact that I use a bow goes against my vows as a Druid. This surprised me a great deal. My good friend, my mentor, and my direct contact with the Order uses a bow on occasion. I am referring of course to the High Druid of Mistone, Rilara and the Dragon Isles, Rhizome. I asked Rhizome about this later and he confirmed that there is nothing in our vows that prohibits us from using a bow.

She also said that the fact that I was in another organization, The Vakhar, also breaks my vows. Again I was perplexed. Rhizome knows I am in that organization, he has willing helped that organization in the past and he has never raised any concerns to me about being in that organization. I feel I represent my Order's interest for The Vakhar. It also allows for effective communication and teamwork with the Rangers and the various clerics of the Nature gods. I have no plans on leaving The Vakhar based on the opinion of one wayward druidess. I was interested to find out that Brisbane is apparently a leader of the groups of Satyrs in the Forest of Mists on Dregar. In fact, she called herslef their Queen. She was instrumental in having the Satyrs allow free passage to all members of Jacchri and Dorena's bonding ceremony. She also told Jacchri that the Satyrs denied The Vakhar's request for assistance because she told them too. Simply for the fact that I was a part of the organization. I questioned how she could be a leader for that group, yet question my right to be in The Vakhar. Rhizome, her own father, was not aware of her affiliation with the Satyrs.

The most incredulous and amazing claim she made against me, however, still has me shaking my head in disbelief. Brisbane told Jacchri that I, a true and just Servant of Nature, considered a deal with Fisterion to burn down the Sielwood Forest! I could not believe my ears when I heard that! Fisterion! I have never even met, seen and certainly never spoke to him. The only Dragon I have ever dealt with is the one that Called me to Hlint. Period. I was appalled and horrifed by this accusation. I have informed Rhizome of this as well. He told me it would need to be looked into. I offered him any assistance in finding the truth as I have nothing to hide.

Jacchri told me that there was much more that she said, but he would not tell me no matter how much I pleaded. He just stated that this needs to be resolved and urged a meeting with Brisbane while Rhizome is in attendance and mediates. I informed him that I welcome the opportunity to get this cleared up and stop these personal attacks against me. I do not want to feud with her. I never have. She has not liked me for a long time, and I do not really know why.

*she stops for a moment and sighs softly*

I wish my Mother was still around. I could really use her counsel right now.....

[KageKeeper]

*Luna pulls out her journal once more and thinks on more happier thoughts to write about.*

While sitting around the campfire one evening in the Ranger's Vale, Soul and I were talking about various things as we do so often now. She was talking about painting her face and what dictates her decision on how to paint it. That reminded me of something I had been thinking about for sometime. A new tattoo that I want to add on my body.

All my tattoos have meaning to me. My very first one I gave myself after my naming ceremony. Another represents the day I decided to follow the Longstrider. Yet another I gave myself after I became a Servant of the Mother. I also have a very special one that represents my mother, who I never knew, but have been told she died after my birth.

My next tattoo will also have a great deal of meaning to me, and ao to Soul. It will be a picture of a great oak tree, full of foliage. There will be a large wolf standing under the oak's boughs, standing guard. Some of the meaning in this tattoo is very obvious I think. The Oak represents the Mother, Katia and Nature. The Wolf is the Longstrider, standing in the shade of Nature and protecting Her. Katia and Folian S'pae are allies of each other and hence look out for one another.

The Wolf also represents me. As a follower of Folian and a Servant of Nature. I am safe under Her limbs, but it is also my duty and desire to protect Her and the Balance in all that I do.

The last meaning that I give this tattoo concerns myself and Soul. She is a follower of Katia, I a follower of Folian S'pae.  In the tattoo I am protecting and sharing my life with her, as I do in life, and she is offering me comfort and sharing her life with me, as she does in life.

Soul thinks that it would look good on my back. Nearly covering it in it's entirety. This will be the first tattoo I will be unable to give myself, so I asked Soul if she would do for me. She was very honored that I asked and trusted her so much to do that. She said she would as soon as she practiced drawing a bit. She knows how important it is to me, and I think it shows how much she loves me that she wants to do her best with it, which I know she will.

*Luna gazes lovingly at Soul, laying beside her. She reaches over and softly brushes some hair out of Soul's face smiling to herself when the Druid smiles in her sleep*

I can't wait until it is done....

[KageKeeper]

*Luna opens her eyes suddenly breathing heavily. She allows herself some time to get her bearings and and allow her eyes to adjust to the near total darkness. She looks over and smiles slightly seeing Soul laying next to her, deep asleep. What had caused her to so quickly awaken? After a moment of thought it comes to her. She had Dreamt again. She pulls out her journal and begins recording her thoughts*

It has been sometime since I have had a Dream. Now that I am fully on the Path, I just assumed they were not necessary. This Dream was slightly different then the others. There was no Wolf this time, but She was there. Who is She? I think I know, but am almost afraid to think it. What if I am wrong? She looks like me. Or perhaps it is more correct to say I look like Her. Her lips are the same shade as mine.

*She pauses for a moment and considers her Dream some more*

I was walking through the Forest that was my home, talking with the animals and smiling at the sight of a patch of Foxglove I saw.

*She glances at the shape laying next to her in slumber and puts her hand around a leather pouch worn around her neck and laying close to her heart. She softly smiles as she holds it, thinking of the honor she was given*

As I looked away from the Foxglove, She stepped out from behind a tree. She was radiant. Glowing and beautiful beyond imagining. I remember mumbling “Mother” as she approached and seeing Her smile at me. That smile filled me with such warmth and joy, but also longing. A longing to know more about this Lady before me.

She bade me to follow her, which I did. She took me to my childhood home. My Father and siblings where there, going about their daily duties. They seemed to not notice me. I recall feeling sad that I have not gone back and visited them much since the Dragon called me away. I have been in the High Forest numerous times since then, but have always avoided it for some reason. I am still not sure why that is. I love my family. I determined at that point that I would go visit them. Perhaps my Soul will go with me? I shall have to ask her.

We watched them for some time and I could not help but notice the look on Her face. One of joy, but mingled in was immense sadness. Eventually She led me away from my home, back to the trees where She had found me.

She  fondly reached out and touched my cheek and then turned and started to leave.

“Wait!”, I called. “I  know you, but do not know why.”

She turned back to me with a smile on Her face and replied, “You have known me your entire life and I have been watching you. When you are ready, you will learn more.” With that She continued walking away and disappeared behind the same tree she appeared from.

“But...who are you..?”, I whispered to the Forest.

As I turned to go, I heard the wind reply, “Come to me when it is time, my Heart. When it is time.....”

After that is when I awoke.

*Luna puts her journal back in her pack and lays back down, snuggling up to the still form beside her. As she slowly drifts off to sleep she whispers*

I will come to you Mother. Soon I will find you.....

[KageKeeper]

*Luna sits long and thinks hard before she takes her quill and sets out writing again*

We were standing outside of Hlint, talking and enjoying one another's company. Ceela, Yardislan, Lalaith, Iradril, Tha'Azail, Annun, Kavil, Owen, Aralin and myself.

One of us happened to look up and saw the Cobra in the night sky strike out at Xeen. A hush of concern fell over us and we continued to keep our eyes to the sky. A while later, it looked as if Xeen's constellation may have been crying.

We immediately started to discuss going to Karthy and making sure everything was all right. First, we decided to visit one of the Sister's, the Seilwood Witch. We rushed into the Forest but found her home to be empty. The Sister was absent.

While we discussed our next plans, Annun and Kavil ran to Blackford Castle to attempt to alert the Queen. They reported no success.

We decided to run to Port Hampshire and sail to Rilara to lend whatever assistance may be required. On the way, there was another Heavenly event. The Cobra and the Scorpian were facing off and we watched in horror as a single. bright and flawless star fell from the Heavens. As it neared the ground to the South, it burst into flames.

We continued on in haste, trying to determine who the single star was. Two thought it might be Toran, so they visited the Temple in Fort Llast while the rest continued towards Port Hampshire.

When we all arrived in Point Harbor, we discussed what we saw, but none of us knew enough to put it together. We ran into Ozymandias outside of Stone. I asked him about the single star and he said it was like a Diamond. A Flawless Diamond. Beryl.

We turned out sights on Stone and we rushed there quickly. To our horror, it was under attack. The forces of Blood were there and sacking the place. I fell to a dwarf mercenary, but was quickly brought back.

We saw demons and promptly retreated. We heard the sounds of a large army of forces approaching, so I took bird form and flew up high to see what I could see. I was shocked to discover a horde of hundreds and hundreds of troops and demons headed our way. Headed to Stone.

We decided that we should alert the nearby towns to the approach of such a force so we rushed back to Point Harbor. While several ran into the town to alert the authorities, I used the Roots to contact a Druid on Mistone and inform the Order of the situation. It was received with shock and surprise but with a promise that the word would be spread.

After Point Harbor, we rushed to the Wolfswood and alerted the Corp of Rangers there. The Corp was already aware. We rushed to Karthy and all was well there as well so we continued on to Lannisport, which we thought may be the next target. Shindaleria is a good friend to the Mother and I promised to protect her anyway I could.

Ozy was in Lannisport and had scouted out the way to Stone and told us how many we would face. We knew we had to do something, even if it was futile. Several others had joined us on our journey, such as Jade, Jennara, Rothnor, Bjorn, and perhaps others that I do not remember. We all decided to fight that day, to try to expel Blood from Stone and free Beryl's Temple from his grasp.

I sent a bird to Tha'Azail, who traveled with Owen and told them of our plan. They were not close, but opted to attack from the other side.

With grim faces but resolve in our eyes we prepared for a battle that none felt we would survive. We cast our spells, said our prayers and asked for our Blessings. We set out to Stone.

Upon arriving, we were again shocked at the devastation we saw before us and our hearts were steeled for what we had to do and our courage was renewed.

We attacked and were attacked relentlessly. We were sorely outnumbered by Blood's forces and beset with Demons. We fought on, cutting our way through the forces, the air was alive with Magic. My hair stood on end as I called down Lightening upon their heads. All around me, my comrades were fighting with everything they had. I spent my time healing the injured and swinging my sword arm.

The battle was long and hard, lasting for many hours. Suddenly, two sorceror's started slinging spells at us. My friends were falling all around me when I also succumbed to their spells. All was blackness for a while until I was once more brought back by my dear friend, Aralin.

Only two of our group survived the battle initially, Lalaith and Jade. Lalaith informed us she used a scroll she had from Plenarius to raise Aralin, a Priest, who in turn raised Tha'Azail, another Priest. Between the two of them, all the other fallen were raised up.

We looked around and were shocked at the amount of bodies that lay all around us. Lalaith informed us that only 4 of Blood's forces lived and they had ran away. We counted the dead. 50 were killed.

While we may not have retaken the town of Stone, we still felt good about what we did do. We did SOMEthing. Did it make any difference in the end?

I would like to think it did. Time will tell. For now, we need to unite and be prepared for the coming battles. For they are coming and will be on Mistone before too long.

There are also questions to answer. Questions such as, why did the movements in the Stars herald Blood's attack? Why Stone?

Where next......?

*Luna waits for the ink to dry and then she closes her journal with a sigh before laying back down next to her Ceela and watching the stars above her until she feel asleep once more*

[KageKeeper]

*Luna sits near a campfire and pulls our her journal and starts to write. As she writes, there are often times when she stares blankly into the fire for a time, and even chuckles out loud at apparently nothing*

Some weeks ago, myself and several friends and acquaintances were comissioned by Gaston of Port Hampshire to investigate some odd occurences involving a strange plant and a disease.

Through long hours of investigation, we determined that the plants had been altered during some ritual summoning ceremony. The plants grew and were much more sentient then usual. They were also deadly and believed to cause a person touched by them to eventually turn into a Rakshasha, a vile Outsider.

We went to Fort Hilm on Xantril and spoke to a Druid there that told us of an odd group of people that wanted to dig out among some ancient ruins in the Roughlands.

After arriving at the Roughlands and investigating a fake site, we found the correct dig area. Deep within, after battling many afflicted individuals, we found the site of the ritual summoning.

There were many of these plants there. They were tall and very strong. I made the attempt, with the guidance of the Mother to make contact with them and talk with them.

I was... *she stops writing and tilts her head to the side a bit as if listening to something. After a long moment she starts and looks around sheepishly. Seeing no one near, she continues writing* overwhelmed by the voices! There were..so very many. All crying out to me in torment. Begging me to help them..they needed a vessel to carry there spirits until a new one could be found. I was horrified. If I did not do something, they would have been destroyed in an unnatural manner.

I could sense they were not being deceitful and I could feel their fear. I did the only thing I could. I allowed them to enter me.

I hear them constantly now. So many voices that I cannot pick out just one very easily. I can almost hear one, when another intrudes on my conciousness. It is frustrating at times. They have told me many stories and showed me many paths.

I know I need to find them a permanent home, and I will. I need to make sure it will serve them well and vice versa.

And I need to do it soon I think....

*she puts her quill down, allows her ink to dry and puts her journal away. She frowns a bit as she lays down next to Ceela and mutters, "Any chance I could get some quiet so I can rest for a time....? Luna closes her eyes and does her best to sleep*

[KageKeeper]

*As she sits by the fire one quiet evening, Luna pulls her journal out and starts writing*

I saw Rhizome the other day for the first time in a very long time. It was so good to see his smiling face once more.

Ceela and I both spoke to him about things that were on our mind. His presense seemed to cause the plants some excitement as they were more distracting then usual. Rhizome noticed and asked me why I was distracted.

After explaining to him what had occurred and that I needed to find a permanent home for the spirits occupying my body, he nodded in his usual way and asked me some more questions.

After thinking for a little while, he suggested I go to the Grove of Awakening, where the First and Second Father's live, and see if the plants thought that an acceptable home.

I thought that was a great idea. Unfortunately I do not know how to get there. Fortunately, Rhizome has been there on numerous occasions and has offered to guide Ceela and I there.

While I do not regret helping out those poor plants and saving them from their fate, I cannot wait until they have their own home....

*she closes her journal and smiles slightly to herself before getting up and climbing through the branches of the Forest*

[KageKeeper]

*Luna takes a few moments and makes a quick entry*

Many were called and many arrived to help retake Roldem today.

We split into three teams lead by Plen, Syn and Rev.

Syn and Rev's teams were deployed at two different locations and attacked Blood's troops there. Plen's team, which I was on, was put at Grey Watch Tower. We protected the area from retreating troops of Bloods.

There was much fighting, many demons were killed as well as regular troops. We were confronted by Drezneb and Eon at one point. We tried to destroy them, but they escaped us. Imagine the blow to Blood's forces if two of his generals were killed!

Needless to say, we were successful today and Roldem is once more free from Blood! We struck a major blow to him today and I felt the Balance shift once more towards righting itself.

We will be victorious in this.

We have to be....

*she closes her journal and looks out over the trees*