Memoirs of a lore keeper

[Xerina]

Research log: Entry 1

I arrived in Hlint today a bustling human city and the people are not the most friendly I have met. Perhaps it is to be expected being a frontier town such as it is. I encountered a brownie of all things in town named Amra. She was quite friendly and helpful and offered to show me around town and where I can find replacement gear.  This place lacks a sense of history but I think there are many stories in this place if I can just dig them up. I spent much of the afternoon interviewing the local town folk and a few adventures.  I learnt little other then that since the full moon the local crypt has acquired a new occupant some type of ghost or shade and the grave keeper wants someone to get the essence of it somehow.  Their might be a bit of history down in the crypt but I’m not facing any thing like that alone at least not yet.  But I’m sure the cemetery will contain some historical clues of the towns past illness plague anything like that that killed off allot of people in a short period of time. Failing that it will at least yield a genealogy of the town’s families and I can use that as a base to start more research from.

The town’s quartermaster also asked me to collect goblin ears for him. I’m not sure what the man was thinking I surly don’t look like a goblin hunter but if I should encounter some in my research I will get their ears.  I also met a man named Reef and an elf whose name escapes me and my note appears to be missing on him. Anyway we had a nice long chat about gray elves and his father who is heart broken, but I was never able to find out why. I appear he thought the gray elves a myth but that if they do exist they might be able to help his father. I don’t think they can and I told him as much.

We were invited along with a group on the way to the goblin caves. Together we descended in to the goblin cave outside town and I was able to get 2 ears for the quartermaster as well as some extra pocket money.  The group was most interested in the history of a goblin fight that took place many years ago between the wood elves of my village and a tribe of goblins invading the Ulmbree forest. They were most inspired but the recounting of the valiant wood elves and their superior tactics. Most of the group later headed into the Sielwoods in search of a necklace that the inns’ bard lost. We were able to recover it rather easily with the aid of a half giant named Klugger and some others. I’m sure Klugger has some stories to tell if he could tell them.

I also met a goblin in town named grovel who appears to be a run away slave from the drow, and wants to be a hero or some such. He was pretty scared and unsure of him self not at all the way of a hero. Reef said that a few goblins had become heroes around here, Something I will have to look into. (This paragraph is circled and has an arrow indicating that it should go up with the first mention of Reef)

After returning to town and speaking with the bard who rewarded everyont that helped most of the group left to sleep or do their own thing. A few of us a lady named Mara and a wizard Headed to Fort Llast and the brownie Amra joined us. We talked to many people in Llast and helped the wizard and Lt of the guards out, and we were also invited to join a larger group on the way to the mountains, by a drow lady we met outside Krandor. I was expecting to go to the Greypeak Mountains possible in search of the horse trainers lost oil, but instead found my self on a long journey the length of the continent or at least it seemed that way. We traveled not to the grey peaks but to the Berhagen mountains past Fort Velensk. Once their the group proceeded to fight giants and even struck deep into one of the giants cave lairs.  On the way from the mountains I was struck by an emerald golem like creature and awoke back in Hlint.

I Hlint I met Rayenoir while in the crafting house. She had found a pack badger. I noticed the badger had a note about its neck, so reading the note we discovered the badger was suppose to be going to Port Hampshire. Mara arrived and we decided to escort the badger to the port, even though Rayenoir discovered the badger was caring something to do with necromancy and were against delivering it. Mara and I explained that not all necromancy is evil it’s all part of the weave, and we finally set off. All along the way we were beset by little imp like quassiet’s (sp?). Shortly before Fort Llast the badger became terrified and no one was able to calm it and get it to continue, Mara suggested that I sing to it. As nothing else was working I relaxed my control a bit and it appears to have been a bit too much.  Apparently as we were traversing the Sielwoods near the Zhainge river, I was over came by the little beasts and some vines that attacked from out of the trees.  When I awoke sometime latter Mara and Rayenoir were talking to a demon and the badger was gone.  I never did get a clear understanding of what happened while I was unconscious.
I achieved a great deal of geography knowledge first hand instead of the maps and books I had read. How ever I was not able to learn a great deal of history or new lore. I must apply my self and be more focused in the future.

Also she was awoken several times and with the badger actually had control and that maybe part of why I have no memory of the demon.

[Xerina]

Research Log entry 2
22nd Winter Night
I again join a small group of adventures, this time we descended into the crypt in Hlint in search of the essence that the grave keeper wanted. I also used it as an opportunity to do some preliminary research on the history and genealogy of Hlint. Our group then traveled to the Sielwoods in the employ of the Hlint bard who again lost some of her possessions in one of the many caves and was seeking adventures to retrace her steps. That bard could use a good history lesson she never seems to learn from her past mistakes. After returning to Hlint our group split up and we all went our separate ways.  While compiling my notes from the crypt and woods I was invited to travel to the southern mountains again.  I agreed and we soon set out. Around Krandor I was separated from the group while I stopped and discussed some history and theory with a clerical type follower of Aeridin.  I was unable to catch back up with the group for while elves travel light and require little sleep compared to other races, my curse limits the speed that I can travel and the group had entered the mountains before I reached Fort Velensk. I tried to reach them but was unable to traverse their trail for more golems had migrated down into the valley blocking my progress. So I returned to Fort Velensk and got more acquainted with the fort and its people. I also harvested some of the local plants.  After a great deal of time the group returned to Fort Velensk and decided to travel on to Dreger but I was forced to take my leave as I did not have the currency to procure passage aboard the ship.  It was a long weary as well as dangerous trip back to Hlint alone, but with the blessing of Ilsare I made the trip with only minor injuries.  While not a total waste of time the trip drained much of my strength so I will compile my notes and call it a night. At least she was quiet today.
I have been working on the witches book and theory about song magic.  I am starting to develop a cohesive theory but how I can test it is yet to be discovered. The cleric I met suggested I find a bard known as Ozymandius. Perhaps I will search him out.

[Xerina]

Journal entry *date is scratched out*
*several pages are covered in a neat flowing script in a unknown language, it looks like it might be a spell or song*

*In an irritated hand with shaky lines showing anger compared to the prior entries and vastly different then the preceding entry*
While reviewing my history notes from the time of the Elves Retreat to Voltrex on a bench outside the smithy in Hlint, reading quietly to myself several passersby kept interrupting me.  Some such as a dwarf named Skullcrusher or some thing very near that, a friendly helpful sort was interested in the war aspect and I suspect stopped because it was a call for retreat, and as he said in battle there is no retreat. I’m not sure how wise that strategy is, but I readily admit that dwarves are fierce in battle and are better to have on your side, then against your side.  Some just stopped to listen or her about elves. * scribbled in the margin as a reminder* I must attach the notes to this entry at the bottom.

I also finally met Ozymandius the great bard everyone kept telling me to find, or at least I think it was him. He said there are four of him.  A rather odd individual to be sure.  He is claims to be at least 2000 years old and professes great knowledge.  I am not convinced of his great age for there are a few things that don’t quite fit that amount of age but I don’t know enough to know if it is his knowledge of the histories I have read that are wrong or don’t match.  More important then his age is what we spoke of. It was a most thought provoking meeting. Now if I could only decide how much of what Ozy said is true, and how much of what I think he said was actually said.  I left Ozy thinking that I had allotted to think about, but thinking about it latter realized he really didn’t say much.  At least I have some hope and know more of the options before me. He indicated that the witch can be slain, the curse lifted, or that it is possible for the two of us to kind of merge and become a single entity more powerful then I am alone. I hate her but I must admit that she can be useful when she wishes to be. As history teaches us it if foolish to let emotions rule us and to discard a possible ally. And yet she is the cause of nearly all my problems and loss. She has cost me my entire family and my love, which is not easy to forget or forgive. Ilsare teaches love and I have been touched by her and try to follow her teaching yet this is beyond her teaching.  I felt like it was all just a test to prove my worth with Ozy. But to what end I am not sure. He spoke little but said much often provoking deep thought and reflection, much more philosophical then I had expected. Everyone speaks of his knowledge of history and tales, but I found him much more introspective and philosophical. He also is very conceded and arrogant. I hope to have a chance to talk to him more after I have a chance to think about what I gained today. I must also look into these people he mentioned and the teachings of Master Yoriko, in some place called Tibium. And he mentioned Melezaphei Hilliraname, and her daughter Eldarwen. After Ozy vanished with my mind reeling I sat in the inn for awhile as the head ache that started while talking to Ozy continued to grow, until I blacked out. I don’t know how long I was out but I woke up in east Hlint outside the crafting house with a bard named Ashley Songwind standing over me. I guess she was going around with him, and he gave her a new flute, luckily he didn’t ask me to play it, She has all the musical talent. I explained that at times I lose time due to a curse that affected me as a child, much like losing time due to drinking far too much. He said he understood that, being a bard I thought he would, drinking for free in inns as they travel the roads entertaining. Having no idea what they give up in power for their desire to be famous and perform new original stories and songs. The power is in the old stories and songs. *annotates in the margin* “I really must compile my notes on song theory and magic.” Together Ashley and I Traveled to some kobolds and thinned their numbers and collected at bit of gold in the process.

*Notes attached to the page*
Concerning the elven Retreat to Voltrex in 334
334
Elves are nearly defeated by the humans and exile themselves to Voltrex. They Begin to regroup and re-establish dominance between families. Many Elves stay behind on the main continents to protect the forests in whatever way possible. Elf and human war ends.
In the year of Unending Sorrow 344, the Elven Court made its pronouncement of Retreat. After hundreds of years of war with humans, discussion, debate, and reflection, the Court realized that the population explosion of the humans, coupled with the declining number of elves, placed the elves and all of Layonara, in grave danger. Although unspoken, the Retreat also held its roots in the inability of the elven elders to overcome the wrongs committed against them by the other races. It also offered the opportunity to seek happiness in the truly elven realms.
This decision ordered the elves to evacuate their homes and civilizations, to Voltrex. Several sailed across the sea to Voltrex, now ruled by Queen Amlaruil. Others who could not bear to leave their lands chose to stay in the High Forest, on the northern edge of Milstone. A very few elven of elven-friendly communities opened magical gates to Voltrex or the High Forest. (One such is the portal to the great library) and a handful of elves chose to stay in these communities instead of obeying the call for Retreat.
To humans, the retreat was a great mysterious disappearance, as the elves quickly and quietly left the areas around Milstone and then Dregar. By the Year of the Unknown Fates 355 the Retreat had reached its peak. Elves along the coasts were known to take passage by ship west, to the lands of Voltrex. While small enclaves remained dotted along the landscape, but they never spoke of the Retreat, the disappearance of their kinsmen to N’Tel’Quessir, the non people.
All elders either followed the Retreat or chose to journey to Aryvandor. Those elves who defied the Retreat were the young and bold, still rash and rebellious by nature. Some were held by an inexplicable love for short-lived humans. A few others believe in the past glory that was Ovdear, and are trying to regain that unity and glory.

*italics* No elven council or ruler has decreed and ending to the Retreat. Weary of Mortal affairs, exhausted by warfare and care, the Retreat offered elvenkind a hope of lasting peace in a land beyond mortal reach. Elves withdrew by portal and ship and far-faring magic westward to Voltrex. Yet now no more ships sail... The Retreat has ended. All those Fair Folk who wished to leave have left. The High Forest and other traditional holds stand largely abandoned. The elves are still here- and some are returning. They are coming back east with ready sword and wisdom in the ways of humankind. *italics*

*tucked in between the pages is a torn piece of parchment written in a elegant flowing script much like the unknown language script. Written over and over*
I am Seere e’ Cormron I am Seere e’ Cormron I am Seere e’ Comron
*followed by what appear to be two songs or short poems.*

E’yaare, iire i’giliath nae winya,
Seldarine rakte, noste quantaala,
Ar’ onemte ont i’ndor en’gwaith ron harnaya
Valyae en’ilya gwaith tuuluva sen
Samne yassen ondo, salque ar’ orn.
Herien tel’iluov, ilya dethole kirma haarn.
Selarine, Tor’ ar’ Seler Tel’Taur
Tyare rallak urnu niite talar;
Olve tyulusse, thon, brethil, ar’ tathar.
Ron karne alda ar’ sira, salque ar’ orn.
Duin ar’ etsir, loeg ar’ brilthor,
Nan’ riena kelvar nae i’ maltanin Mallorn.

*and a transulated song in both elvish and English*
Come by the hills to a land where fancy is free
And stand where the peaks meet the sky and the lochs reach the sea
Where the rivers run clear and the bracken is golden in the sun
And the cares of tomorrow must wait ‘til this day in done

Come by the hills to the land where life is a song
And sing while the birds fill the air with their joy all day long
Where the trees sway in time and even the wind sings in tune
And the cares of tomorrow must wait ‘til this day is done

Come by the hills to a land where legend remains
Where stories of old stir the heart and may yet come again
Where our past has been lost and the future has still to be won
And the cares of tomorrow must wait ‘til this day is done

[Xerina]

Research log: Entry 4
It would appear the witch is good for something at least. I found that today I knew how to fashion basic musical instruments. Something she observed yesterday when Ashley Windsong made her a flute. This is exciting and offers an endless realm of possibilities.  What else might I be able to recall from her memories later. I actually found that I am somewhat skilled at alchemy also, I have been saving up components and I acquired several stink beetle glands and a fire beetle belly and was able to forge choking powder and alchemist fire from them.
I met a militant druid named Luna today. She takes her role of woodland protector almost as seriously as my village druids. Something I didn’t expect to find outside of Ulmbree Forest let alone off Voltrex. Luna assisted me in gathering some spider silk from the sielwoods, and the head of the red light goblin chief, for that dwarven trader in Hlint.  Though another actually slay him and was on her way back out of the caves depths as we were fighting our way deeper in.  
In between we discussed some ancient elven history. Ancient from human stand point, merely the distant past for an elf. It still amazes me that where for us it has been a few thousand generations upon this land for us elves has been more like a million generations for humans and a hundred thousand for the dwarves. It makes us believe our history is more pure more true and honest then that of the other races. And perhaps it is ours is handed down once from one generation to the next while in the same period the humans will have past down their stories over 100 times. How can it remain true like that? Elves write little down for history for we out live what we wrote it on what book can last as long as an elf? But still as I said how can a human keep his history true in a 100 retellings over the life of an elf, yet we have told out history perhaps far less often, but still over and over in a few thousand generations. Our stories have less variance and less variety between tribes, again lending support that ours is more pure. But is it truly?
It might seem a pointless philosophical question to most, but as a historian and lore keeper it is of up most importance to me. The accuracy of the details and history are what separate history from legend and myth. How can we learn from our past if it is being slowly changed to wash out our errors and make us more glorious? If a point is changed the lesson lost then the failure will be repeated against and the lesson must be relearned. We would be far better if we would learn to stop embellishing our stories and making them entertaining and keep them true and educational. Keep the lesson learnt. Why must we fight and strive against each other? Many clans and tribes change the story to make it more heroic or make them seem to have played a larger role then what they did. Each act alters history and while at the time it is known to be a boast or exaggerations in a generation when those that were there are gone, it is remembered as truth and history is on its way to becoming a myth, with the truth lost in the mists of time.

[Xerina]

Entry Log 5&6

Today I ran into Ozymandius again. He was feeling better and agreed to answer more questions. By which he meant test me farther. We again spoke of many things mostly the philosophy of history and its accuracy. Seems to be a common topic in Hlint for nearly everyone has a comment on it in the streets when told I am a historian, more so if I mention I seek the truth of history not the lies that are often passed down. Even the most barbaric wood bound forest protectors are willing to wax philosophical on the topic with great vigor and self righteous importance. Often proving my point without ever understanding it in their attempt. They think they understand and try to justify their ends and explain why the task is impossible or how I am just as biased or jaded at the writer who died 2,000 years ago that lived thru it. While everyone is slightly biased and driven by purpose, I must believe that I detached by 2,000 years and unhindered by a redrawn conclusion as well as having more information and accounts then that writer, and being guided by a wealth of facts and knowledge have a better chance of learning the truth and in doing so increase my understanding and wisdom. Knowledge is worthless without understanding and understanding is worthless without truth. Some have even argued that there is no such thing as truth, only facts and that the facts will be a different truth to everyone based on their bias. That is stupid truth it truth, and not subject to moral interpretation or cultural bias.  But I digress from the true topic at hand the discussion with Ozymandius. While most was philosophical and enlightening as well as more intellectual then the street philosophers, it was not truly very interesting or relevant other then what I gained in understanding of the topic, Ozymandius, and myself.
After speaking to him I again returned to the great Library to search for some information on Arenski who Ozymandius holds in great regards and respect. I discovered who he was and why Ozy respects him but truly the library held little information. While there I took a great deal of time to research a bit more of the prior topics namely the Tol’Eflor, blood, magic, Eldarwen and master Yoriko.

During this research trip I found what had always bothered me about our recorded history, again because I was able to detach myself from it and not make it personal or try to read it with a biased belief jaded by the fact I had read or heard it many times. Being detached and open allowed me to apply what I have been learning from Ozymandius. In doing so I came up with this story outline from the Book about Blood in the great library.
1)   Tol’Eflor
    a)   Created the elves
    b)   Called the gold dragon

2)   Chromatic dragons appeared following the wake of the Metallic dragons
    a)   Chromatics waged war on the metallic and the Tol’Eflor
    b)   Dragons created other races as fodder in the war between them

3)   Sinthar Bloodstone rose to power during the war
    a)   Blood believed that the Chromatics came because the metallic were here
    b)   The metallic were here because of the Tol’Eflor meddling
    c)   And as such he fought against all those seeking to destroy or control his homeland

Now for most this is nothing new it’s the excepted history rarely questioned. That’s to bad because there are a great many holes in this history and even more questions. Only part of which Ozymandius answered or knew the answer too.

If the Tol’Eflor created the elves then called the dragons why? Were the elves charged with a duty they failed or neglected or were incapable of? Or were the dragons called then the elves created because the dragons failed. Why call dragons instead of creating a new race? Were the Tol’Eflor and dragons allies where ever the Tol’Eflor came from? Why did the dragons answer the call? Why did the dragons create other races and why the races they created? How did the dragons command such power?

Why or how were the chromatic able to follow the metallic’s?  Why are they at war endlessly? If the Tol’Eflor are gods or near gods how can the metallic wage war on them?

How was a budding mage created by the dragons able to grow in power so fast? How did he command power to threaten his creators and those that called them as well? How did he come to control an army and wage the battles without losing? Why did all the races find him traitor to them all? Why did the metallic demand his banishment and not death?
Were they unable to kill him, so instead sought to banish him? How did he establish bloodwells for power connecting to the plane of the lost? Did he or does he have a pact with the soul mother? What is her role in all of this? A hundred questions come to mind about the soul mother and her possible role in this war as well as other wars and the god wars.

Some questions were answered most were left with only a tidbit of information given, enough for me to follow to learn the truth. For Ozy admitted that the book is a copy of one he wrote and is around 80% true.  What I came away with and it seemed to please Ozy somewhat that I was able to distance myself and see thru the gaps and lies in the history. Is that Blood is CRAZY. He is completely insane and always has been, that’s not to say he is not brilliant and a remarkable general and leader. It only states that he is crazy and as such many perhaps most normal methods of reason will not work with him. His logic and reasoning are vastly different then that of a “normal” person.

Blood did not lead an army of the races against blood he opened rifts to demonic realms and called forth demons and led them in war against the dragons, Tol’Eflor and their allies, i.e. the other races. Hence he was his own army fighting for no one but himself. He betrayed all sides including the humans and the dragons that created them. The logic is clear here for him. But it is flawed yes it all started with the meddling of the Tol’Eflor but without that meddling no elves, no dragons were called, no humans were created. Then he would not exist would have no homeland and no reason to fight. He owed his very existence to the forces he fought.

Well I am going on a bit here, and too many questions are still unanswered. And I have allot of crafting to catch up on, so I will spend the rest of today and tomorrow crafting so no entry tomorrow.

I must remember the prophecy though. Ozy wants word of it spread. I am not sure I agree with him but for the moment I will honor his wisdom and wishes regarding this matter. Though no one I have spoken to since seems particularly interested.

Portion of the prophecy of the black blade. (Blade that somehow still binds the Tol’Eflor here even after the elves failure)
The black blade/blade of shadow
The black blade or blade of shadow is but a metaphor that the one that is the blade will indeed have a blade named thus. But only in the hands of this person that the true blade speaks and aids.

[Xerina]

Journal entry 7

Well today was not a total waste I have decided to codify some of my thoughts on the theory of harmonics I have been researching and pestering everyone about with little to no head way. But I know I am right I don't know how I know but I know. Oh and I talked to a nice man about the soul mother and bargaining for a soul back. And I met some Halflings today and showed them around Hlint and Fort Llask, curious little group they were. Oh yes my notes codified and solidified in a nice logical fashion more or less.

The history and theory of song magic.

Have you ever wondered how it is bards can cast magic? They don’t study magic like a wizard nor do they function the same as a sorcerer. Their selection of spells is very limited and mostly based on sound, illusion, and persuasion. Their magic is more like an extension of their ability to perform and entertain. But why and how?  

I has developed a theory after being cursed by a being called the song witch. The witch had more magic then the bards of today, but she died over a hundred years ago and was ancient when she died.  No known records exist of this branch of magic even among the gray elves. Or at least they are not talking about it if it does. It is possible that it was a magic based on the magic of the dragons, the Tol’Eflor or perhaps the witch came from another plane or world.  Evidence found in the witches house hint at an elaborate system of magic based entirely on sound and singing. While the vast majority of the witches writings and books are in an unknown language that has yet to be translated what has been leads to many questions.  

Did the song witch have to memorize her songs in advance like a wizard? Was or is it a lost branch of magic or a sub branch? Are bards less now then they once were?  My theory below.


Harmonics Rules
First what is Harmonics?
It is the study of the physical characteristics of musical sound.

Second How does sound work?
The air vibrates infact everything vibrates at a certain pitch, that is why one can shatter a crystal glass with a pitch perfect instrument of voice. By studying the harmonics relating to sound, music, and the vibrations of certain words most especially words of power, and combining them into a flawless peice of work you can bring about a result fromt he resonance effect. If I can vibrate your ear drum at the right pitch and frequency it will overload on stress and shatter causing deafness. If blood flows at give frequency then with sound I can clot it and close the wound, perhaps even call a soul back from the grave. and so on and so forth.

Harmonic magic, practiced by Spellsingers, was a separate school of magic. Although Harmonics magic worked very much like the other schools of magic, with one major difference.

Harmonic magic was performed rather than simply incanted. This made the casting time longer and removed much of the offensive ability of the magic. Leaving them to rely on defensive and augmentive magic. They also had access to healing magic and resonance magic. Resonance magic allowed them access to the limited offensive magic at their command. It was the power to amplify sound to the point of causing deafness or creating a shockwave that would knock an opponent fromt heir feet as examples.

To learn Harmonic magic, the Spellsinger learnt Harmony. This prerequisite allowed the Spellsinger to perform the basic abilities required to use Harmonic magic, as detailed in the skill description below, and it allows the Spellsinger to build a progression of up to nine levels of spellsongs. This progression was built in the same manner as other spell progressions. Harmonic magic did not affect the status of primary and secondary schools of magic, and harmonic costs did not change if the spellsinger also has other types of magic.

Rather than spell books, Spellsingers used songbooks. In order to use any spellsong, the Spellsinger had to use a Harmonic spell slot of the appropriate level and have that spellsong available in their songbook. Songbooks were created in the same manner as spellbooks. Costs were the same as a spell of the same level. Typically the spellsingers carried an instrument and the crystals or gems were inset within the instrument.

A Spellsinger must have had all spellsongs written down. This written form of the songs did not have to be carried once the song was fully learnt. The Spellsinger’s performance must match a song from this written record, but small variances are allowed to enhance the performance. A Spellsinger may have had more than one written song for a spellsong in their songbook.
 
Spellsingers must have created an original song for each spellsong they wish to cast. A spellsong must have intelligible lyrics with at least four lines per level of the spellsong and the name of the spellsong incorporated into the song. The name must come after the required lyrics, but extra lyrics can be added to the end for artistic purposes. The song must take at least one second per line to perform. A song can be longer for artistic purposes. The song and lyrics must relate to the magical effect. Some artistic modification of the spellsong name was allowed so long as the name was still clear.

The entire performance of the spellsong should be reasonably musical, harmonious, and poetic. It should substantially match the song as written in the spellsinger’s record. Some variation is allowed, as with any sort of performance, as long as the performance is reasonably smooth and appears correct. Speed singing, poor accompaniment, poor vocalization, or clearly fumbled words will invalidate the spell. Spellsingers could create and make use of Harmonic crystals. Crystals that worked much like scrolls holding a spellsong to be unleashed latter.

Why then are bards diffrent today and in my opinon less then they were? Its simple. As bards developed they became proud and embelished their songs and music breaking hte law of acceptable variation. They altered more and more of hte core straying farther and farther from the core of Harmonics and more into performing and focusing on mundane spell casting. They lost contact to the pure harmony of magic and the music of life. With hands free and components not required spellsingers were in tune with the very essence of magic, perhaps the raw essence that forms the weave, the magic of the Tol'Eflor and creation. Unrestriced by the limitations of hte weave they could sing the very music and harmony of creation, birth, life, death, and healing.

[Xerina]

*This account is set down in the book of journals in a 3rd person account and a hand seen elsewhere in the book but not that of She’Spar. The script is a fine script with odd shaping of letters and sentence structure at times. Almost as if common is not a language the writer is comfortable with, or it is written with a heavy accent as sometimes is encountered with a planeswalker*

*Tossing as a nightmare engulfed her weary mind, the cursed one lie on the hard bed of the inn called Wild Surge. Usually relying on the reverie, it is odd for an elf to truly sleep and dream. A nightmare tormented her, wracking her mind, as this night sleep she was claimed by.  An eerily weird eldritch song weld up within her pulling her deeper in toward a light, as she tossed and turned in the bed. Growing it swirled and pulsed with a magical pulse seeming alive, the maw of a living thing set to devour. Struggle against the draw she did, but futile did it prove to be. The maw drew her in, her last resolve shattering. Gone was her will to fight. Possessing the mind of another know the thoughts and actions thought they be not her own.*

"...Arrogant fools! Thought they banishing me to this forsaken plane would lead to my untimely demise! Little know they of the ways of the Black - Darkness embraces those who embrace it with all of their soul.
Dare to try to harm me in this place, who would? Me, Ra-Karx, the Usurper!
The time for my return will come, and blood of those fools will fall like rain! First things first though - plans to be made, all possibilities accounted for, as my strike, when it comes, must be decisive, must be remembered by all with awe and horror!

This cavern. Unusual even for Abyssal planes it seems. A place of Power, I'm certain, I can feel magical forces swirling around me, clashing, combining, and separating again. Yet, this Power seems dormant, asleep? No, awake, watching, yet without any traces of love of hatred - completely indifferent, alien.
Lake of molten lava surrounded by ice pillars – strangest of coexistences absolute opposites. Dancing flames above the lava surface - golden and red, crimson and black, shift and form figures, which reflect off pillars as runes of power. Dance of fire in a circle of ice - the force ready to unlock its secrets to one who can understand the signs, one, who can shape them to his bidding. Yet, is there a purpose? This something that may be tamed or is it just manifestation of raw forces of Chaos?

Time flows here differently. How I know is unknown but I feel time racing by beyond this pocket dimension. A fortnight gone here and few centuries out side here and I'm getting closer to understanding. The Power that lingers here seems to be able to communicate with a focused mind, communicate through visions, daydreams, strange pictures that I can not completely decipher.

This cavern seems to be a place of creation, a forge of sorts. One strong enough and daring enough to try to control the force of Chaos may attempt to create an object, a reflection of his own soul frozen in time and cast into a solid matter.
The temptation is strong, yet I'm wary - there's something in those visions. I don't fully comprehend, something about price. Price for turning a small piece of Chaos into solid, unchanging matter - into a representation of Order.

Last vision was clear - price to be paid is inability of the creation's owner to veer off the chosen path, the path being followed at the moment of creation. It suits me just fine, as I have been seeing my path clearly for quite a while, and am content in walking it to the end. Although, it brings up a question - why would chaotic force require something like this? Why would it require someone to make their life seemingly more orderly? To make
a person sacrifice some of control over their own fate and thus to became more susceptible to random events around him? Perhaps, I guess I'll never know for sure. So, the decision is made - I'll attempt the ritual tomorrow.

The mind and soul locked on a single focus - the creation, the shaping of wild power around me. Black threads of negative energy and golden ones of divine power spiral into a single column-like helix from the ceiling down into the center of the lava lake. Blue-white sparkling cones of cold from the ice columns join the helix at the bottom, where it touches the lava surface. Excruciating pressure of opening the mind to prying tentacles of Chaos boiling around me, and, at the same time, trying to hold concentration on the task at hand. Then vision of a vague elongated shape emerging from swirling mist. Then - darkness.

As my senses slowly returned to me, I can now see what I have forged. No, not forged - conjured. An elegant sword suspended in the air in front of me. The gold plated hilt resembles head of a demon with inky black eyes that seem to stare into the darkest regions of my soul. From the demon's mouth spouts the obsidian-black blade, engraved with seven runes, which emit crimson glow that engulfs the whole blade. As I stare at the runes, the meaning of the signs unveils itself to me:
The first - face contorted with pain - plague.
The second - whirlpool - doom.
The third - roaring dragon - fear.
The fourth - serpent coiled around dagger - malice.
The fifth - bleeding eye - torture.
The sixth - chain - slavery.
The last, the seventh - cracked skull - death.

I close my hand around the hilt and take the weapon. It feels not just like a suiting blade for a Darkwalker as myself, but like a familiar tool, almost an extension of my own self. Then I hear the voice. Voice coming from nowhere and everywhere, which seems to fill the whole chamber around me.

"Conjurer, you have given birth to the instrument of ultimate evil. The tool of raging death and destruction is in your hand. Your fate is linked to the sword now, for it is a mirror of your own soul."

Even before my consciousness can fully comprehend what has been said, my inner self already formed an answer, or is it my creation speaking through me?

"The choice has been made. The gates are open, my path lays straight before me."

Brief silence follows, and then words - "You have spoken, Conjurer. So be it."

So, it is done. An artifact created. How it will affect my life remains to be seen..."

The maw again appears as the figure she mind rides with raises the sword above his head and strikes the lake of lava.  As the figure the Darkwalker steps into the maw.

Severed the possession is, shocking the cursed one awake. With a scream to curdle milk and freeze blood bolting upright the cursed one awakes.  Shrieking free is the Darkwalker coming he is. Passing out the cursed one leaves me free.

Question I do where did the maw open to and where did the Darkwalker it takes? Ra-Krax a name I knew once. One I hoped to hear again never. Revenge his goal be. Control of the sword be required to open the maw to home world of his. Control I think he has not yet. Plan also he must his revenge. Learn ways of the sword and control he should. The Darkwalker brash he may be, foolish he was not.  Against me also revenge he would seek should my life’s existence be made known to him.  Blame me for his banishment he will. My fault it was but purpose I lacked. Knew not to who I spoke when the high mage appeared in his skin. Gave his book of magic I did, sealing his fate.  His book also will he seek once it was in my woodland home. Now know I not where it lie. This cursed one must either give way to me or work with me and fight me not if to survive we are.

A note I must leave for her. Awake she will again and fight for control we will. Unless her trust I might with easy surrender win.  A gamble both way, and much is at stake. Make her understand the cost failure will bring. Fear of the Darkwalker instill in her I must.  Write down this night I will for I saw it all trapped in the corner of her mind. Perhaps that was the point of the drinks that odd bard kept giving us. A distilled memory each was like.  Until the waters of the river Styx and essence of a plane beyond the planes imbued we did.  Even that drink of death afresh was a memory, the curse song in liquid form it was. Then after the drink conscious the cursed one was. Conscious and aware of us in a new way. Feel her looking at us, watching us she was. Watching in her mind. The drinks brought on the awareness of the planes perhaps opening the maw in the cursed ones mind. Lacking experience she was, unprepared was her body. Sleep cursed one again the Darkwalker is free.  Find him we must, seek him and his destruction we must. Let the sword exist we cannot allow, destroyed it must be.

*With the last line written Seere stood, packed Seh’Spar’s bags put her books in the satchel and strode from the inn room, thru the inn and out into the predawn gloom. Seere gathered the instruments from the ox Seh’Spar kept tied down by the barley field, readied the weapons, and started a hum a grim tune.  The few people in the streets at this time of day took a single look at Seere and thought of better places to be as she hummed the eerie tune awakening child hood fears in those she met. Many of the people began fearing drow in every alley or a rogues blade in every shadow, almost all decided to find some light and a shelter until dawn, so it was that Seere left the town of Hlint unobserved and began the work she had thought finished centuries ago.

[Xerina]

Journal entry 22

Today I arrived back in Hlint after an extended absence. Must was spent back in the singing forest and my late uncles tower. I have been looking into the history and prophesy Ozy left me with. I have passed the prophesy out as I traveled as he asked long ago, but I know not if it has done any good.

I have also continued to research song magic or harmonics, as well as the odd dream. More recently I journeyed with a group thru the Grey Peaks and met a fell end against a large group of Ogre. I did meet a few stalwart adventures that offered to assist me in returning to the spot I fell to reconcile the soul.  With their aide we made it back to the spot I fell and then on to Lar before returning to Hlint.

I also meet a sea elf that does not appear to speak any of our known languages. I really must brush up on some of the lesser used languages who know what history she may hold.