In search of knowledge

[scotcar]

I have secured a room in the Leilon Arms Inn, providing much needed storage space.  The fellow boarders are very friendly, in their own way.  Merchants also set up stalls there, where I managed to purchase a fine ring, belt and gloves.  My next task is to examine them to see how they are made.

Kai and I also went mining.  As there were only two of us we avoided as much combat as possible.  Kai broke both of his picks and we really had little return for the effort.  Still, it provided me with an insight into how to tackle the mines differently.

[scotcar]

What has come over me, have I become depressed because of what is happening to Brit?  I must be depressed, because the following actions, although funny, are not consistent with my nature.

The beautiful Shelu, a man called Pyyran, a dark one and an elven maiden was talking outside the Hlint merchants.  The dark one required an item to be identified, which I did with ease.  I do not trust them, but still will be more friendly towards them.  We were talking in general, except for the elves that were talking in elvish, a bit rude for the human Pyyran.  He is interested in learning the language though, but I spoke only in common, rarely does the elvish language pass my lips.

I made some jest regarding elves, and this maiden took it poorly.  My next comment was to Pyyran, telling him to learn orcish as it has better curse words.  The maiden called me a demon, well said that anything could be under the hood, even an orc.  She then went on about keeping the balance and not killing orcs and so on.  By this stage, I was convinced that this maiden needed some educating on the realities of life, and told her so.

She said that orcs would only attack because we raided them!  I had enough, telling her that the best use of the orcish language is to lure females and their young out of hiding so that they can be butchered and by killing the young first, the females could be dealt with easier as they would be so distraught.  Shelu then asked if I actually spoke orcish and I clearly stated I did not.  The maiden, turns out to be a druid, pulls out a knife and lunges at me!  By that time I had cast invisibility, easily avoiding the attack.  It was amusing to see the young maiden land face first on the dusty road.  She was furious, so to drive her further into a rage I promptly threw a stink bomb at her, being careful to avoid hitting dear Shelu with the resulting vapours.  The druid stormed off, then Shelu dispelled my magic.  I did apologise for my behaviour to Pyyran and Shelu, the latter was most amused by the event.

I was a little sheepish about it all so I went to look for the druid, wearing a disguise of course, to ensure that she stayed out of trouble.  Alas, I could not find her so I hope she stays safe.  I did run into Ireth though, and she said something so I told here that I would spank her.  I fear that I have been around Kai too much

[scotcar]

All is well!!
Ireth has been healed, well at least the poison has been removed from her body.  Brit and I have reconciled, he even game me a metal helm that I can wear under my hood.  I am most pleased with it, although I may lock it safely away so it does not become damaged.

I heard there was a meeting in Fort Velensk to do with the alliance and decided to journey there with Shelu and Barion.  Others joined us along the way, the journey itself was not very eventful, until we were ambushed in the fens by lizardmen.  Barion and Shelu work well together and we quickly killed all of the beasts.  The meeting had not started and a great number of people were sitting around talking.  Ifion sang some ditties for us, he is a great sport and a fine bard.  Not that I will ever mention this too him!  I left before the meeting started, rest called me.  

[scotcar]

Mindflayers in Hlint!  A group of us were attacked by the beasts and flying eyes as well.  We banded together and with the aid of Moreken travelled to their lair to battle them.  At evert stage eyes attacked us, but we were well prepared.  In the dungeon we encountered umber hulks, earth elementals, spiders and mind flayers.  We battled on, losing Pyyran to an earth elemental.  Luckily a priest of Toran was there to raise him.  Onward we went, into the depths of the dungeon, there we came across some fearsome beasts that slew most of the party, I was only about to save a few from certain death.

One beast, a brain devourer was most problematic, I exhausted all my spells on the creature with little effect.  Nor could the weapons of my comrades affect it.  We summoned beasts to battle it and I fled to read my notes on the animal.  When I returned, it had been slain, and members of our party were attacking an altar.  Knowing nothing else I prayed to Aragen, which appear to annoy the creature.  My strong faith was like a weapon, striking it.  My prayers ti Aragen were answered, my comrades were restored (it was claimed later that it was all an illusion, I do not believe that)!  We fled the tunnel; I was exhausted by the efforts and was carried out.  (it was a great GM quest)  

Our battered group returned to Hilnt, enriched by the experience.

[scotcar]

A mining trip gone wrong.

Jet, Brit, Kai, Natalyia, a goblin and Ireth ventured all the way to the bottom of the Haven mines.  I collected many gems (Brit carried most of them for me) during the trip.  We were in sight of the entrance when some ogrillians attacked, slaying both Brit and Ireth.  I only survived though the use of an invisibility spell.  I also turn Ireth invisible but she kept attacking.  Once she starts, she can be very single minded!

I returned to Hlint, hoping that the shades of Brit and Ireth could be found there.  Brit was there although Ireth was not.  We returned to Haven to watch Sy stumble out and collapse, chased by some minotaurs.  Apparently there may be a portal down there, a group lead by Brit and Ireth were going to investigate.   I returned to the temple, to see what I could find out.

[scotcar]

For days now I have been carrying around a package for farmer Part.  The blasted thing weighs me down and takes up room in my pack.  So a journey to the Thalos River was in order.

Reaching Port Hampshire after a long and uneventful trek, I was surprised to see Master Noss at the docks.  Apparently he was pondering a trip to Rilara and as I needed to see farmer Part it seemed logical that we should travel together.

Whilst travelling through the forest of Rilara Master Noss cautioned me not to wander far, the forest could be a dangerous place he said.  As if to reinforce his words an elven ranger stepped out of the gloom and fired a barrage of arrows, several glancing off Master Noss’s amour as he calmly walked up and engaged the elf.  Magic missiles shot from my hand, causing the elf to cry out and allowing Master Noss to end his pain with that powerful hammer of his.  What drives an elf to attack too peaceful travellers is unknown to me.

Farmer Part was happy to receive the letter, giving me some coins for my trouble.  He is a good man, although there always appears to be something causing him some angst, especially those scarecrows.

With my task finished, Master Noss took me on a tour of Rilara, through groves of chestnuts and into foul swamps.  As a precaution, Master Noss bid me to become invisible while he requested that his God provide him sanctuary from any fell bests that we came across.  With a towns walls in sight, the destiny of our journey, an angry cry whet up from a troll shaman who charged through the swamp towards us.  The shamans cries attracted a further two trolls, and we fled for the gates, reaching them just before the trolls.

Once inside, I thought we were safe until a lumbering hulk threw me aside and charged Master Noss.  Hammer rose and fell, the power of Noss’s God beat down on the creatures and troll and dwarf blood ran freely.  My prayers to Aragen were answered, some of Noss’s wounds closed, alas more were torn open by the trolls.  He was forced backwards and there were still no sign of the guards.  With a bellow, one troll fell to Master Noss and the others fled, we were safe.

Leaving town, our trek continued onwards until reaching a beautiful lake where cranberries grew in the fertile soil and catfish could be seen swimming in the shallows. We had collected the nuts and fruit along the way as Master Noss said they had some useful properties.  

We caught ship back to Port Hampshire, being glad that another trip to Rilara would not be required for some time. Disembarking, we began the long journey back to Hlint.  Just south of Fort Hope a shadow fell across the road, signalling an attack from the local gryphons.  Master Noss set about with his hammer while I fired arrow after arrow into the bellies of the beasts.  As the last one crashed to the ground, I felt the love of Aragen flow through me; I had reached a new understanding with my God.

Hlint was quiet, Kai, Ireth and Ariel were sitting on the benches near the pond, chatting and enjoying the sunshine.  Ireth stood, beckoning me away from the others, a look of concern on her face.  We must maintain a ruse she said, the pain inflicted on her during healing must be acted out, else He will know something is amiss.  Although a little hesitant with the ability to maintain the act, the only path was for me to agree.  A little relived, Ireth and I joined the others who had not appeared to miss our presence.

A tingle moved up my spine as I reviewed the new knowledge Aragen had provided me.  On a whim I entered the graveyard and called to an unsettled spirit, whom answered in a form of a zombie.  Apparently the spirit had been murdered by goblins and needed closure.  Guiding the zombie through Hlint to the Red Light Caves was an easy task, there the zombie extracted it’s revenge, slaying many goblins before fading away.  Gladdened by aiding a spirit in that manner, I walked to the campfire to rest.

[scotcar]

Summoning the zombie is becoming a habit that must end.  Although useful and I truly believe that it helps to rest the poor creatures soul, there have been some negative reactions from people to his company.  Hopefully, Aragen has not been displeased with my actions.

Sitting in the sun in the goblin wastelands, invisible of course, the breeze was very pleasant although someone was killing goblins on the hill above, quite distracting really.  Master Noss walked over the hill on his way to mine greenstones.  We greeted each other, while waiting for Lan, who was going to help me mine some copper.  Sounds of fighting came from the caves and we raced in to find Lan slaying the last of a group of goblins.  Stupidly I had forgotten my picks and ran back to town with the jests of my companions still ringing in my ears.

Angela was talking to the others when I returned, so the natural choice was to form a larger group.  Apparently she needed to blow off some steam.  We managed to collect a fair amount of copper, until I broke both of my picks.  Again the others teased me mercilessly as I mined, it was quite amusing.

Hlint was quiet, and the smithy empty, allowing me to concentrate on smelting.  Just as my skills were increasing Kai, Ty, and a few moments later Ireth appeared.  They kept on disrupting my smelting although the company was pleasant.

With the new copper ingots and a trip to the Leilon arms to retrieve some of my moulds completed, it was time to make some rings.  Two rings came out exceptionally well, one of which I will keep and the other I will sell, if there is a market.

Not a bad day all in all.

[scotcar]

Ireth and Brit are to have a child!  What joyous news!  They are both beside themselves with happiness at the prospect of looking after a daughter in nine or more months.  Trysk joined us (Ranewin his beloved was also there) and Brit remarked that he may want to go and hide, so I turned Ty invisible, then Ranewin invisible so that could have some quite time!

Brit commented how he wished to be invisible as well and I granted him that wish.  I think that Brit was getting up to mischief with Ireth as she kept yelping in surprise.

To celebrate we went mining for copper, which Brit allowed Ireth and myself to smelt afterwards, improving my technique.  During the mining trip I healed Ireth and she cried in pain.  It was very convincing and for a moment I thought that I had truly hurt her.  Remembering our recent conversation, it then occurred to me she was acting.  I felt ashamed that I have forgot such an aspect from a friend.  Brit and I had a short discussion regarding the summoning of undead.  In his view it depends on the purpose of the summoning.  I don’t know if he really understood the point of the question.

Some stored moulds proved useful in making two rings, although they were of ordinary quality.  Working gems is truly a pleasure.

[scotcar]

Pendar sat down on the bed of the small rented room in the Lelion Arms, pondering what had happened over the past few days.  Groaning slightly, he stood up to stretch stiff muscles, and run a hand though his hair to comb it into some semblance of order.

Tiredly, Pendar walked over to the writing desk and sat down, collecting this thoughts and putting pen to paper.

These last few days have truly been put into service of Aragen.  The work put into crafting is starting to pay off, with the results clearly seen.  Gathering resources is the hardest part, however by using the right reward, be it coin or other items, others can be persuaded to gather materials for you.  I had convinced one person to mine ore for me; as a result he brought back over 50 ore samples.  They took some time to work and I now have a fine stockpile of copper.  I also made a deal with that same fellow where he provided me with a number of boxes of skeleton knuckles, in return I gave him a number of healing potions.  It was a fair swap all round.

My travels have taken me to a dwarven fortress, an island of bugbears and the crypts in Krandor.  In each situation a task was completed.  I even ventured deep into the High Moores with a small party to assist in a task, learning much.  My healing abilities have proven very useful, saving many people from certain death, while they battle evil beasts.  Only rarely do I become involved in hand-to-hand combat, that is best left to others.

Slowly I am collating the location of resources, asking fellow adventurers where they have found specific items, then proceeding to collect samples for myself, where possible.

I had added some interesting items to my resource collection, some graveyard dirt and black mushrooms.  At some stage I will need to collect some spotted mushrooms, however my recent trips to Stroans crypt have been less than enjoyable.  During one adventure, two of our party became trapped behind a door we could not unlock, with the bodies of a further 4 of our fellows.  The second time I was chased in by a huge skeleton that then proceeded to kill a pixie familiar, trapping a elven mage behind a door.  Luckily my pixie familiar was able to open the door, freeing him.

One other subject of importance is the collection of magical spells.  So far, I am only focusing on the simple ones I can cast, however as my abilities increase I hope to collect more.  I will then learn to scribe the spells so I can share them with other spell users, in return for new spells of course.

My other task is to produce some studded wolf armour.  I have also noticed a number of clerics using swords.  Maybe if I can make a sword Aragen will allow me to use it.

One last subject of note; Ozy.  He has offered to teach me knowledge that Aragen may not approve of or even know, dark teachings that may corrupt.  What a temptation, new knowledge, but at what cost?

Pendar sat back in thought.  Some guidance is required on this.  But who to ask?  Maybe in his prayers to Aragen an answer will be revealed.  

[scotcar]

I had the joy of running into that foolish elven druid whom wishes to kill me because of the joke I made about killing orc children.

Glenn and another fellow were there; both put themselves in harms way to protect me from the idiot.  Such a feral beast she is.  I must admit that some of my comments did not help, but teasing her was so much fun.  Even Glenn and the other fellow were amused.  That woman pushed me over and pulled a knife!  How rude!

Ireth passed by and came to my defense as well, such a lovely person she is, even if she did say that I have a strange sense of humour and that I should shut up.  I am surprised that a druid, an order reputed to be calm, wise and just, could ignore the evidence that the others put forth.  Ireth left in frustration, as did Glenn.  The other fellow just kept himself in front of me, although I did not wish him to be harmed on my account.

She lunged at me, a brief struggle before she fell (well, I pushed her over really), striking her head and falling unconscious.  So I healed her and she cut me!  Well, it was barely a scratch.  The fellow was amazed that I would care about someone that had openly stated that she would kill me.  Still, I believe that there is time for her to gather knowledge and grow as a person, although it could take a very long time as she is an elf.  She even has less regard and more prejudice to other races than I did.  Now I understand how rash I was.

A bird sent by Angela alighted upon my shoulder, with a note requesting my presence in Fort Lhast.  She followed me to the gate; threatening me that once I was out of the cage (Hlint) I would be hers to kill!  All the time I had not drawn a weapon on her.  I was still trying to disengage when Angela arrived wondering why I had not responded, immediately coming to my defense.  Then a rather dark looking man arrived, observing the situation and making inappropriate, although humorous, comments.  One such comment was that he also liked killing children.  This enraged the druid further and she threatened that he was next to die.

Soon Abi, Ranewin and Angela were telling the elf not to be so stupid, that I was a good friend and not a childkiller.  I joked that they were ruining my credibility and the dark stranger was making comments so amusing that I struggled to keep a straight face.  Angela tried to disarm the druid but failed.  Rane left as she didn’t want anything further to do with the conversation and I departed, with my happy druid shadow to do some crafting.  

Luckily I was able to lose her on the way to the craft house, and returned to the ladies in time to journey to the mountains near Fort Velensk.  Fifur and I then went to the Direwood caves, a new experience for me.  I returned to Fort Velensk to rest and plan the trip back to Hlint to work the gems I had on my person.  

//It has been a while since I had laughed as much as last night.  Some of the comments by Shadoe (Bryantiza) had me in tears and I couldn't type.  Thanks to all people who put up with the situation.  Poor Pendar has an enemy, but he also realises how many good friends he has.

[scotcar]

I have been so self absorbed that I have not recorded the most important event of the last few days, that druid must have upset me more than I thought!

While in the mountains, with a group including Ireth, we experienced a marvellous sight.  An avatar of the Gods, or so she claimed, greeted us and spoke directly with Ireth.  The avatar was beautiful, although terrifying at the same time.  I swear that Kai was tying to find a way to lure her into his bed!  I suppose that she did have a pulse after all….

Ireth nearly wept when the avatar told her that Dougal was dead and the debt abolished.  She is safe. The child is safe.  Brit is safe.  At least for the time being.  There are repercussions associated with that creature Dougals death.  He had the potential to be an agent for good, to help stop Bloods invasion.  Alas that chance is now gone.  Sadly, the child Dougal was minding will become another victim of Ozy in his quest to close the portals by killing the children.  The battle continues, but what will be the next front?

[scotcar]

Tried to make some studded wolf armour and failed.  If more wolves attack me in the future I will collect the hides so that I can try again.  Also managed to talk to Faile the druid about that young feral druid.  Faile is somewhat bemused by the entire situation and believes that the young druid requires some educating.  I cautioned Faile not to relate this conversation to the druid and to act as if it did not happen.  Fifur was there and thought the entire episode was very amusing.  He even suggested that I change my name to "Pendar the Child Slaughter".  My response that my name will become "Pendar who will not heal Fifur" did not sit will with him so he shut up.

Fifur and I went to Haven, before Fifur got drunk and fell asleep.  I was forced to make my way back, slaying a number of ogres.  Now I can stand toe to toe with those in the mines and win, at least if the odds are one on one!

Lan wanted my help in the goblin caves, which I provided.  Just before climbing to the second level I cast many spells of protection on myself, expecting a goblin ambush.  Alas there was none, so Lan continued on towards the exit.  I turned to leave, only to hear a noise behind me.  About half a dozen of the creatures had snuck up on me.  With all the spells of protection wrapped around my person, I battled, without being hit.  There was a cry and another mob of goblins charged into the fray, several staying back to shoot arrows at me.  Soon all the goblins were dead and I only had a small wound to show.

Lan had also been ambushed but had dealt with the beasts appropriately.  We parted ways and I left for my room in the Leilon Arms.

[scotcar]

The craft-house was deathly quiet, the only noise the soft murmur of the post master and Johan discussing the health of his wife.  It appears that Johans wife has not improved, it is a shame as they are a pleasant couple.

A soft yellow glow from cooling copper bathed Pendars face as he reflected on recent events.  The hood typically warn by him had been pulled back, showing a young pale face.  Grey eyes watched as the copper solidified in the moulds, forming arrowheads for further crafting.

Pender sat down against the crafthouse wall, pulling out a simple journal and a raven feather quill to record his latest thoughts.

Milstone as whole was becoming more familiar to me he wrote.  The length and breath of the content has been traversed, either alone or in parties, with new companions and friends resulting from successful adventures.  The knowledge gathered along the way is invaluable, providing insight into the lay of the land, different cultures and other going-ons on Milstone.  My skills in crafting have also improved greatly.  At this point Pender looked down at the studded leather wolf suit he was wearing, a labour of many hours, but well worth it.  

His face clouded as he recalled one particular day, the day death visited.

Milstone has become dangerous, whilst returning to Hlint from Krandor, a man in blood red and black armour cut me down, not even breaking his stride.  I had never met such power in a being before.  Awaking in Lelion, I headed to Hlint again, only to be ambushed by that foolish druid who appears intent on my death.  I had no intention of fighting her, and then He appeared again, killing her wolf companion as I fled.  Running into town raising the alarm, adventures gathered to hear the tale of what had occurred.  Other adventures recently killed by the man stumbled into town.  The druid accused me of bringing Him here!  I was in shock, declaring my innocence.  Such a vindictive and evil creature she is.

A group rapidly formed to take battle to the man in Blood red armour.  It was carnage; I doubt we even scratched him.  Then he was gone, as simple as that.  I claimed that it was Blood, who else would have such power in both the magical and martial arts.  Others were not convinced.  Still the armour and the weapon matched his description.

Then hope.  Later that day whilst crafting, Jacc relayed information to me that an alliance of powerful adventurers were successful in some important and dangerous missions.  Much old knowledge had been rediscovered.  But even in this journal, I would not record that discussion lest the journal be lost.  I will relate everything to the temple though; the content of the conversation needs to be kept.  Jacc did confirm however, it was Bloodstone himself that we faced that day.

How dare she!  That foolish druid has posted a warning note in the inn, defaming my name!  I responded, demanding that she cease this foolishness.  Considering the wars that have been thrust upon us, infighting such as this is pointless and dividing.  We need every able body to help, the fear she breeds could cripple us all.

Closing the journal, Pender stood and looked at the set arrowheads.  Cracking open a mould, a close examination showed that they were serviceable.  Picking up a bundle of arrow shafts, Pender walked towards the fletching table, a satisfied smile on his face replaced the frown of moments before as he anticipated working on his new skills.

[scotcar]

With a pop, embers exploded, chasing each other skywards.  With a start, Pendar looked up from putting some finishing touches to a suit of studded leather armour.  Cautiously peering into shadows thrown up by flames from the fire, he relaxed as a second explosion of heated tree resin showed what had caused the initial sound.  Watching the second flight of embers, Pendar considered the past few days.

Ireth and Brit have gone their separate ways, the though brought a twinge of sadness for his friends.  How should he react?  Ireth still frequents the town when not tending to her baby….but not Brits baby.  Celestial forces had interfered, turning the foetus into a planner being.   Had this been the last straw for Brit?  But Ireth indicated it was not going well anyway.  Sighing, Pendar recalled the day he told Brit that marrying a elf could bring pain to both parties.  But the love had looked so strong…

And now others were courting Ireth.  Kai, that paladin Remeil or whatever his name is and probably Mith….Mith he tries so hard to be dark but still the light can shine through him.  The child must be protected, but who or what is she?

Pendar stared into the fire, eyes glazing over while he analysed his thoughts.  Master Noss indicated that a paladin would break his vows, killing an innocent.  Who and why?  Don’t trust anyone Master Noss said.  Who was the one you trusted the most here…Brit… but he has gone.  The Barbarian islands, cold and dangerous, Master Noss warned Pendar not to go there…But how could he not?  Should he go there, what would he say?  Would it make a difference?  What could be learned there…

Stirring the fire, Pendar thought about his last conversation with Shar.  Had he failed in showing friendship to Brit?  Where was Shar?

And Ranewin, what curse does she have?  Would the Arcane Alliance know?  Pulling a scroll from a leather pouch Pendar slowly unfurled it.  I do notn trust this group and maybe Ranewin has already found an answer.  Still, maybe it is time to find out more regarding this Alliance.  Slowly Pendar chanted the works scribed on the scroll, sending a message to an envoy of the Arcane Alliance hoping that it would not be a mistake.

[scotcar]

Townsfolk quickly went about their tasks, Rodlem has fallen and fear was creeping across Milstone.  From shadows cast by the inns roof, Pendar watched the young druid walk out of town.  Even though he was invisible and the danger from the druid was not that great (she had even apologised for tying to kill him) it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Leaning against the inn wall Pendar opened his journal, flicking through the pages.  Most of the recent content contained notes on working hides and travel to new parts of Milstone, Rilara and Dregar, but there were some interesting passages he wished to review.

A trip to Leilon had exposed Pendar to a party looking for magic circles.  One member of the party relayed their experiences so far, providing new knowledge.  Further involvement in their cause would be a positive experience Pendar felt.  It also provided links to the Arcane Alliance, links he could trust.  Pendar still felt a little cautious regarding that organisation, even as he fingered the scroll detailing what was expected of him.  He would need to read the scroll again to make sure he understood it all.

Shifting his weight, Pendar glanced about pondering the next entry: Ifion is not just a bard. Pendar was certain of it, as the bard had called on divine powers to heal in the goblin caves, claiming it was an innate ability.  He had also observed Ifion by Ilsares temple acting suspiciously.   Would he be a follower of Ilsare?  She and Aragen do not get along well, but still the two of us do, even if we rankle each other for fun.   Tragically, Blood has also attacked Ifion’s home; his parents had lived on Rodlem.  Still, this behaviour should be investigated further.

Turning the next page, Pendars quick reactions caught a neatly folded letter placed between the pages.  Brits letter….  Closing his eyes, the contents flashed inside his head.  Brit was run out of town, called a barbarian and he was confused about why Ireth left him.  Sighing, Pendar opened his eyes, at least he was alive he thought.  Maybe a journey to the Isles to bring him back was warranted, although it would be very dangerous.

A breeze blew dust stirred by the passing people between the buildings, rustling Barion’s hair as he watched the pond deep in thought.  A slight frown creased Pendars forehead, it was not fair for Barion that Shelu was away so much.  Still, when the temple calls…

Closing the journal, Pendar recalled the last few items of interest.  Ireths child has already grown up, and their friendship had been repaired to some degree.  She had also received a letter from Brit and was glad he was safe.  She is living with a new man, although Pendar was not sure whom, as long as they were happy.

Sy is seeing Annun, Kavils ex-lover.  A meeting between Sy and Kavil had gone well enough, even though it was by chance precipitated by Pendar calling greetings to the two of them.  A most difficult circumstance.

Lastly, the truce between the young druid and Pendar had been reached.  Luna and Jacc had aided in this, still she needs to become wiser about the world and the journey they took as a group surely helped this.

Smiling Pendar recalled the greeting Acacea had taught Justain: “I am a little piggy”, convincing him that it means “I am a Paladin of Toran”.  Pendar was about to explain to him exactly what it meant, however the way Acacea looked at him and knowing that Ireth is not fond of Justain, Pendar instead told him that it means “I am a mighty Paladin of Toran”.  He was most pleased and I could barely keep a straight face and Acacea beamed with a smile that went from ear to ear and had skipped away happily.

Still with the smile on his lips, Pendar hefted his pack, full of skins for crafting, some kindly provided by friends.  The smile quickly turned into a groan as the weight settled on his back.  Once the skins hides had been worked, he would need to collect some more silk and bronze.  Ah, the joys of being an adventurer and gathering knowledge for Aragen.  Whistling softly, Pendar headed towards the crafthouse.

 

[scotcar]

Sunlight bathed Pendar as he sat, turning a mineral emerald in his hands, mesmerised by sparkles of green light.  This is it, he thought. With this gem I can purchase a house and set up a library to store the knowledge that I collect, including spells from the agreement with Mith.  The hours of mining had payed off in more than one way, a second set of studded wolf leather lay on the grass, a product of many days labour.  The studs produced from ore that he had mined.

Time spent working hides was starting to pay off; Pendar was becoming more competent although luck was having an effect.  If he had been more careful cutting out patterns and using oils there would be a greater collection of items for both use and sale.  Still, Abi had helped with her advice in tailoring, something Pendar was grateful for.

Memories of the past few days drifted though his mind, the adventure to control the dream circles including dying at the hands of a demon, only to be raised at a later time by a party member.  Neither Angela nor Trysk would leave his body behind, what loyal friends he now had.  That adventure had come at a high cost.  Many died, sometimes more than once.  Pendar still recalled giving healing potion after healing potion to one of the fighters being squeezed to death by a magically summoned giant hand.  Luckily the spell wore off before the fighter perished, but the look of pain on his face still haunts Pendars dreams.

A second death at the claws of a gryphon chasing a fleeing dwarf also came at a cost, both to Pendar and Ranewin who raised him.  The pain on her face was terrible to behold after she returned life to his battered body.  Still, her comments perplexed him.  For a priestess of Ishare, she seems to be unwilling to give of herself to others as she once had.  Granted she had given much, suffering as a result but to withdraw her love of others to protect herself may mean she is drawing away from her God.  Although the faiths of Pendar and Ranewin were different and the respective gods not friendly to each other, he still hoped that she walked in her gods love else she may become forsaken.

Another memory of recent days came to Pendars minds eye, that of Ifion whispering a prayer over the body of Glug, a giant that had gone mining with them.  One word still haunted Pendar “Aragen”.  Ifion had been praying to Aragen.  The bard who could inexplicably cast healing spells was praying to Aragen.  Could Ifion be a priest of Aragen?  If so, why does he hide it from another follower of his god especially a fellow priest?  Tapping his chin thoughtfully, Pender was determined to spend more time with the bard to uncover his secret.

Wrapping the emerald in an oilskin, Pendar put it carefully in a belt pouch.  Standing up, he glanced at Fifur’s house across the pond.  Smiling to himself he recalled visiting the dwarfs abode and conversing with Shelu (such a beautiful elf she is) and Fifur. Pendar did not quite believe the story of the cow falling on Fifurs fathers head killing the hapless dwarf, it seemed too improbable, still unusual things do happen.  Sure Fifur is a little too rash, however Pendar enjoyed his company even if it put them in situations where they may both die, such as a recent mining trip to Haven.

Shaking his head at Fifurs story, Pendar started walking towards Sielwood forest.  It would be a perfect day for a walk in the cool shade of the trees there, maybe he would run into one of his ranger friends to show him some more forest lore, to supplement what his mother had shown him.

[scotcar]

Pendar carefully folded the parchment, placing it on his desk.  After returning from travelling around parts of the Dragon Islands and southern Mistone with Jacc, Tyrsk, Angela, Aries and a thief that did not like dwarfs or spell slingers as he put it, Pendar had found a letter from Connor.  "Well, what is done is done" he said.  The first steps to join the Arcane Alliance had begun, now it was just a matter of time as to whether he would be accepted or not.
With nothing better to do, Pendar picked up the cougar bag he had crafted, stuffed a number of pelts into it and headed off to the crafthouse in Hlint.

[scotcar]

‘So much has happened recently, both joyful and sad’.  Pender stopped writing, laying down his quill and resting a hand on his flail as footsteps echoed in the cavern, receding again after a few moments.

Pesky kobolds he thought, relaxing his grip on the flail Pendar picked up the quill again and continued writing.

‘Brit is dead; his frozen body was found by a ships captain and buried at sea.  A tragic end for a dear friend.  The reality had taken some time to sink in and informing Ireth had not been easy.  Still, that chapter of my life is over.  Rest well dear friend.’

‘Ireths case had been heard and appropriate punishment was metered out.  She is a free woman although she is obliged to serve in a local orphanage for a period of time.  My letter to the court did not arrive in time although I do not believe that it would have altered the course of judgement.’

Pendar looked at his shield resting against the wall.  ‘The emerald sale provided some coins and two items of interest, a fine shield and a holy pendant that will require some study before it is of use.  Recently I managed to enchanted my flail with holy fire, a great boon in battle is has already proven.”  

‘Aragen has also increased my knowledge of things magical, allowing me to cast a new level of spells including balls of fire.  I still have many spells to research and Mith is helping me with this in return for magical inks and parchment to write upon.  In ways, he has become my default mentor in things arcane.  Possibly he does not realise this yet.’

Water dripped, plopping into pools of water, scattering small blind fish and beetles to hide in nooks and crannies. Watching the falling drips Pendar pondered the one unanswered question, Has the Alliance accepted him or has be been rejected?  Only time will tell.

Packing his writing equipment away, Pender then stood up and picked up one of the cougar pouches he had made.  Slinging it over his shoulder he headed towards the caves entrance and another day to be spent crafting.

[scotcar]

Plop....
Plop....
Carp darted away as stones landed amongst the school.
Plop....
Ripples expanded in circles from the point of impact.
Plop....
Pendar sat in the still of the morning, tossing small stones, shattering the glass like stillness of the pond's surface.
Plop....
A tear rolled down his cheek.
Plop....
Thoughts in turmoil crashed about in his mind.
Plop....
Sighing, Pender felt around for some more pebbles to throw aimlessly, to shatter the stillness, to prevent from thinking.  To stop the pain.  

All his life people had left him, yet he knew that they were alive...hoped that they were alive.  His parents, his first love.  The presence of his god helped to fill that void, although making new friends was not always easy.
Plop...
Loosing friends was harder.
Plop...
First Brit and now Sy.  Dear Sy, one of his first friends in Hlint.  Although Sy and Pendar had gone down separate paths, a recent journey together had shown that the bond of friendship was still strong.
Plop…
Another tear.
Plop…
Sy, why did you have to leave, why did you do it?  I will miss you Sy my friend.  I wish I had your strength and your easy manner.
A smile crept on Pendar’s lips as he recalled the last time he saw Sy.  To tease him, she started to take off her armour so that she would be naked in front of him, to embarrass poor Pendar.  He turned away and closed his eyes so that he would not see.  Now Pendar wished he hadn’t had done so.  Not because he wanted to see her naked, rather because it was the last time he saw her.  Had he have known, Pendar would have spent every moment that he could with her.
Lying back on the soft grass, Pendar watched the new dawn colours, orange, red, blue and yellow.
Rest well dear Sy, and may Aragen watch over you and ensure that I never forget the knowledge that your friendship brought.
Closing his eyes, tears rolling down his cheeks, Pendar remembered the two friends he has lost.  Friends he would not see again in this world.

[scotcar]

Pendar sat by the fire and reflected on the past few days.
Ayla has also fallen.  Although not a close friend, Pendar admired the strength of her faith.  Now she has gone at a time when as much strength as possible must be mustered.  A terrible blow.

Gathering material and crafting had taken up much of his time recently.  Midnight had also commissioned Pendar to produce a certain scroll, a task that took a little more effort than first thought, still it was completed successfully.  Not only was the scribing a useful experience Midnight also promised a nice sum of money for the scroll.  Now basic inks were almost trivial to make, allowing them to be produced on mass for Mith in return for new spells. Once Pendar has mastered all the most basic of spells, the next level of ink would be required.  Still, that was not a difficult task, rather just time consuming.

Harvesting oak for scrolls and arrow shafts was the most difficult of his tasks at the moment.  Pendar smiled as he recalled the first time he produced arrows with oak shafts and bronze heads.  Working the oak had proved very worthwhile, even if it was high risk.  Either he had to fight undead or spiders and beetles.  Neither prospect was much fun.  He also had a small collection of bronze studs for making studded armour.  With a few more pelts he could make some cougar armour or even some black bear armour.  Maybe that should be his next task Pendar thought.  Then again, the oak shafts also need to be turned into arrows. Maybe once that is done the pelts can be gathered and worked.  So many things to do.  

There has also been a number of new visitors to the town, young adventurers seeking fortune and glory, often running into trouble with some of the local monsters.  Guiding them had also taken some time and was rewarding in it’s own way.

Pendar leaned back against the trunk of a tree, watching the stars overhead, glittering in the night sky.  Such a beautiful night he thought.  He also wondered if his parents were looking up at the sky that same night.  Or if she was….why had she gone without saying goodbye?  Where has she gone?  Sighing Pendar closed his eyes, remembering the face of a beautiful young elvish maiden.  He would never forget her….never…