Letters from an Errant

[egoober]

[SIZE=16]Master Grythir,[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]I hope these, somewhat tardy, letters find you in good health, I am sending them via the temple so hopefully it will catch up with you before too long![/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]Some of these missives have lain in my pack for a good few weeks while I travelled, so I am sorry if several come at once. I shall try to keep a regular flow as my duties allow.[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]Much has happened since I left you that morning. My sojourn was interrupted by an interview with a Dragon! It started as a dream one evening, but I awoke in the town of Hlint.It would appear I may have a role to play in the struggle against Blood![/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]I’ve made some friends here already. The first person I met was a young elf by the name of Ireth. I say young but I suppose that she may be older than you and I together! However young she certainly is, full of spirit and curiosity. Irrepressible is the best word that comes to mind. Think of a kind, pretty, and well meaning teenage girl and you are fairly close. She’s great – stops me getting too serious! No, before you ask, it’s not like that.There is but friendship between us.[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]Elhara is another elf, although the strangest I have ever met. She talks more like a dwarf! Still, her heart is in the right place, and sheis a fine swordswoman - well, axewoman, actually.[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]There’s a public forge here in Hlint, so in the quiet moments I’ve taken up the hammer again. Just like old times with my stepfather.Strange how relaxing it can be to work the metal, although I find that I’ve forgotten so much of what he taught me![/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]I need to relax, as well. I am sorry to say that I have never seen so much violence in such a small space of time. Sometimes it seems that everywhere I go there is some creature eager to take my life, or the lives of those in my care. I confess that I have taken to carrying a sword almost everywhere I go. You know I prefer the staff, but so often now I need the protection of a shield by my side, and I rarely travel abroad without armour in my pack.[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16] [/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]I shall write again soon.[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]Your humble servant[/SIZE][/FONT]
[SIZE=16]Elladan Peters[/SIZE][/FONT]

[egoober]

Greetings, Master









I had to write to you to recount some of the last few days. I have been spending a great deal of time with my new friends Ireth and Elhara,but I find that many of the people here are helpful and decent. I still remember the lessons, and now they are more valuablethan even. You taught me never to judge another, and that lesson has served me well. Only the other day I met a Drow Elf by the main gates of the city.Inside, that is. We talked for a little, and left each other in good spirits.He seemed surprised, and pleased, that I talked to him as I would talk to anyother stranger on the road, and I was rewarded with the pleasure of a few minutes peace with a goodly traveller. I have met Drow, Half-Orcs, Half-Giants, Elves, Dwarves,Halflings and more besides. It has shown me once again that no one people stands above another, and that good souls come in all shapes. Thank you for that lesson. Being a “halfbreed” myself made it easier to learn, perhaps, but the truth of it shines hereabouts. For reasons I shall not bore you with here, a few travellers and myself had cause to enter the vaults of Hlint, and nothing could have prepared me for what I found there. Undead, and lots of them. I feared we would be overrun at first, but I cleared my mind, held the symbol high and defiedthem all! How they ran from us, the foul magics that held them in thrall gave way before us as Aeridin lent us strength. On of our new companions, Brit Forgeheart complimented me on my “strong magic”. I almost laughed! I had to explain that it was faith, not magic, and that I was not responsible for any it in the truest sense. Brit is a fine man. He seems troubled, but his is a mighty swordsman, and I could not ask for a better man to stand with. He has beenhereabouts for some time, and has promised to show us around a little. He made good on that promise the next day. He led us throughthe Seilwood forest down to the fabled Ranger’s Vale, and from there to the Temple of Aeridin. It was so beautiful I was speechless.A better antidote to the violence and corruption of the crypts I could not ask for. More later.

Elladan

[egoober]

It's been a week for strange conversations...

Firstly I had to explain to Brit that Ireth and I were friends, and nothing more. I've had my suspicions for a few days now that he is romantically inclined towards her. I think I put his mind at rest. I certainly hope so..

I wonder if she knows yet? She certainly flirts with him, but she is very young. Still, if they can find some happiness together it can only be for the good.

We have discovered that Blood's forces have landed on Mistone. I try not to think about the bloodshed that will come of it, but I do sometimes wonder what my part will be in the battles to come.  How will I serve?

[egoober]

My path seems to be linked with Brit and Ireth.

I am not sure why yet, but I shall follow where fate leads me with interest.

Ireth, nervously at first, told me that Brit had invited her to move in with him. I thought it was only a matter of time. Ireth seems unaware of how he looks at her, it is all I can do not to laugh out loud at times!

She took me to see the room. It seemed to be a nice enough place, just outside of Blackford Castle. She formally introduced me to Master Nossyla - a dwarven healer of some stature. It seems that he is a cleric of Dorand, but he seems nice enough.

We sat down and talked for a while; and  I slowly realised that I was being interviewed. Now, Ireth had suggested that I also rent a room in the same house and I had declined, but it seemed that she had suggested the same to Nossyla.

I explained that I had no need for a room. After all, I have few possesions; no need to entertain; and my needs can be easily met by a bedroll by the fire, or an occasional room at the Inn.

Nossyla accepted this, but went on the explain that he was offering more than a room. It was a place in his "family" that he offered. His arguments carried weight. We may only weather the coming storm if we come together to share our strengths. A tightly knit group can give us a power that the enemy cannot match.

After some thought, I agreed. So, now I have another family. If by doing so I achieve nothing more than helping Brit and Ireth live a fuller life, it shall not be in vain. They both seem to need someone to talk to, and your example seems to have made me a good listener!

[egoober]

Master Grythir,

I fear I have let too much go by since the last letter, butlife has been very full, and moments to myself have been scarce. Here attached aresome of then drafts from the last few days, they seem more honest that editing them together now:

Brit and Ireth seem tobe coming along nicely together. At times she babbles like a human teenager, it’s hard to remember that she is older than I. Brit is a quiet man. Strong, capable, honest and honourable, but quiet. They make a strange mix, bugt I think a good one, although Ireth is worried about the age difference! It is  amusing to watch sometimes, as her courts her…He likes to surprise her with “little gifts”, she only has to mention the desire to make a copper ring, and the chests upstairs are filled with ingots!

My own room is arranged now. Morespace than I could use, but a couple of  storagec hests, a small bed and a altar. What more do I need?

We travelled to Krandor, to enter the crypts there. Rumours came of great numbers of undead, and the lost ashes of a child’s grandfather.It seemed wise to marshal a sizable group for such an undertaking, so that is what we did…adding several volunteers from Hlint to our number. Some were familiar to me, others not, and there were some who made me uneasy.
Once we entered the crypts, things began to go wrong. The group quickly lost it’s unity, the air was filled with the shouts and thesounds of spells. Overpressed by several of the foul creatures, I sought to fend them off with the power of my faith. Sadly, I moved too slowly. I do not remember the blow, but I fell…..the world went dark, and I awoke in the void. It would seem I still have work to do, however, for I was returned to the land of the living, and hurried as best I could to rejoin my comrades.

To shorten the tale, the group was successful. Many times I had to hang back to protect the rear of the group which was left open. Howver, the crypt was cleansed, at least for a time, and the ashes were returned. Ireth and Brit seemed angry and left almost at once. I stayed to talk to some of the others.
One of there number had taken charge in some manner, and it was to him I spoke in the main.  He called me a fool – said that I had failed, and went on to explain his tactics.  It might have been better if  he had exxplained these before the fights! I could not make him understand that my life was of little value! If the quest was completed, the goals to which I had sworn myself to aid had been completed,what matter if I had fallen?  
I should not have been surprised that he was misguided, myearlier suspicions were confirmed as he openly declared himself to be a necromancer. I do not think he is evil, but he is truly misguided….Or is that the same thing, in some respects?

Ireth an Brit revealed that it was the actions of this man,and his companions, that had annoyed them. They had refused to aid my fallenbody, as I was a Paladin, and unlikely to care for them. And the called ME a fool! How little they know of service…
I shall write again as soon as I may Your servant
Elladan

[egoober]

My Dear Master Grythir,
Glad news came this week. Firstly, Ireth finally realised that she was in love with Brit! The silly girl was practically dancing all day! I could not help but laugh…






Secondly, and not unconnected, later in the week Brit asked her to marry him. She has accepted, of course. She has also done me the great honour of asking me to “give her away” if her parents are unable to attend the ceremony. Given the violence and death that I have seen, it gladdens my soul to see some pure joy in the world. Brit finally came around for the “talk” that he has beenintending for so long. He does not understand my faith, any faith, in fact. He was so full of questions; he quite stretched my talents as a debater. Really, a priest would have been a better choice to explain some things to him; the meaning of the golden leaf; how the Lifegiver’s energies can flow through the faithfull…..and so much more. He opened up to me a little. It would seem that he believes himself to be Evil. There is a darkness in his past that troubles him still. I shall not repeat it here of course, for it was told in confidence. I tried to explain to him that his actions define him – not the temptations that he resists; that resisting temptation could show he was a good man, not evil. He has been wronged, and part of him hungers for vengeance. I tried, and shall continue to try, to teach him the path to justice. To show him that vengeance hurts all, but that justice can heal. His love for Ireth has already shown him the truth that lies in the beauty of Life. Maybe more shall come later.

Then he asked me a question I could not answer. What of MY future?

It seems strange now, but I had given the matter little thought of late. I answered as best I could. I am sworn to serve. My life IS service.Given all that is happening around us, given the gathering of the dark that awaits us at Blood’s hands, what are the chances that I shall live to have afuture? Slim I fear. But that is the choice I made, and it is a choice I am happywith. Still, perhaps I shall prevail, and then who knows? Hearth and home? Love?Maybe. It would be nice to know mortal love before I die, Aeridin willing.
Yours,

Elladan

[egoober]

More news from Blackford,
It occured to me this week; What on all the planes am I doing with a room larger that my stepfather's smithy, when Brit and Ireth are cramped into a room sized for one?
I have decided to offer the pair of them my own room as a betrothal gift. It will suit them far better, and what need do I have for more than a bed, and room to read, pray and exercise?
Master Noss permitting, I shall take on their old room in their stead. Making the payments on both will prove difficult, but not impossible, I may just have to take better note of what funds are recovered when "questing"!
I shall speak to the twain this even...
Yours as ever

Elladan

[egoober]

Greetings Master, Well, Brit seemed well pleased with the gift of the room, although that man can be hard to read! Ireth was, of course, overjoyed. She has to be the most irrepressable woman I have ever met - she has so much life in her!
Nossyla surprised me a little. He refused to allow me to take on the payments for both rooms. He was only willing to allow us to "trade" rooms, with Brit paying the outstanding amount on my one. Not quite the start I had in mind for them, but at least they shall have the space.
Ireth, jokingly, suggested my true reason for the gifting was to prevent the noise from their chamber keeping me awake in the small hours! She has no shame....and I think none of us would change her for the world.
Your servant,

Elladan

[egoober]

What a day this has been!
It started as any other. The usual prayers, exercise, then breakfast.As an aside, I find that the exercises are easier than ever now; my blows are more precise, the practice blocks come faster, and the reposts flow swifterthan ever. More importantly, my mind is clearer and more focussed than ever.There are times when even in the thick of melee I can still feel the Lifegiver guiding my hand.
I am ashamed to say that I find myself using the sword more and more often. not so much for it's own sake, but more for the fact I can wield a shield with it. Still, when I travel in areas I know well, I tend to leave it behing, locked away. The staff still feels better in my hands, and reminds me I am more than just a warrior.
Forgive me, I digress.
I was working at the forge in Hlint, taking out some dents,and cleaning the armour. I had just finished the final polish on the new white,when I looked up to see a huge Orc stood beside me!
I am not ashamed to admit that, for a moment, I was more than a little concerned. However, this creature spoke in a not unfriendly manner - and the day I fear for my life within the confines of Hlint will be a sad one indeed.
He asked me if I was Elladan, obviously I replied yes. Then he went on to tell me that Brit and Ireth had changed the date of the wedding.They were to be wed today. They were, infact, already at the courthouse!
Something in his manner made me believe him, still I challenged him and he swore he spoke truly. So, I ran as fast as I could to the courthouse.
It was true. Luckily I could take a few moments, as the room was prepared, to clean up a little. Attending a wedding ceremony fresh from the forge is not quite the done thing!
The ceremony was beautiful, and moving. Ireth was resplendent in her dress. They swore their own oaths to each other, and were wed. I have to confess to shedding a small tear at the time.
As congratulations were offered, I ducked out of the back,and went to spread the word in Hlint. I managed to drum up a few of their friends to offer congratulations, and join them for a drink in the Wild Surge.For once, I even drank myself!
A happy day. No killing, no worries, just the simple joy oflife and love. It’s nice to be reminded of the things we fight to protect Yours,
A Very Happy Ellandan

[egoober]

My Dear old Friend

I think the events of today may show themselves to be of great import in the future. I know not in what manner but I shall not sleep easy tonight.
The beginning of things was ill enough. I was bound for the forge in Hlint, leading a pack ox of copper and tin for smelting. It was to prove fortuitous that my armour and blade were in the pack. As I approached the western gate, I spied a crowd gathered around something in the road. Coming closer, it became clear to me that this was Ireth, and she held in her arms the body of a young woman. Voices were raised in anger, and the middle of it all she sat and wept. I tied off the oxen as quickly as I could, and rushed to herside, asking as I approached what had transpired here.
It took a great deal to contain the anger from my voice, I confess I have become a little protective of the lady of late, most especially as Brit often entrusts her safety to me when he cannot be close.
What angered me more, however, was the body of the fallen Elf she held. Bruised and battered, a moment’s glance showed that she had been felled by many weapons, and by many hands.
From what was said, Ireth had come across the group there present in combat with a large cat The beast fell, however, as it fell its shape changed into that of Ly, the Wild Elf woman that Ireth has recently befriended. She was heartbroken.
I had arrived too late to be of any real help, young Ly was beyond what powers I had. As we talked, Britt came upon us, and went to Ireth’s side. Sensing that recriminations would achieve nought, and that justice for this killing could wait, we attempted to bring some peace to the throng, and itwas decided to carry Ly’s body to the temple in Rangers Vale.
We spoke little as we travelled. The enormity and injustice of this thing hung in the air before us like a spectre.
At length, we came upon the temple, and laid her body there.Ireth asked that I guard the body for a little while and left, swiftly. I satfor a little while in prayer and waited. Shortly, two others joined the sad meeting. One, Trysk, I had seen before, the other was unknown to me and did not offer his name. However, his demeanour was that of a grief-stricken lover.Tryst spilt some of his blood upon the maiden’s form, in what seemed to be a ritual of respect.
Brit and Ireth joined us, as did Ranewin. I knew that there was little I could do, but I was moved by the pain of those around me. I sat in prayer, and appealed to the Lifegiver to return the Elf maid to us – channelling my full strength in healing as I did.
After a moment, the shimmering spirit form of an elf appeared above the body, and asked why it was that she should return into the midst of so much pain. Looking at the faces of those around me, I gave the only answer I could; “For Love.” What surprised me was that as I spoke the words, I found that Ireth and I spoke as one.
The stranger whispered to her, in pleading I believed, whena change came over the spirit-form. Suddenly she was fair no more, but rank and corrupt, bubbling with green ichor and sneering from a twisted mouth.
From the corner of my eye, I beheld a black shadow. Iremember feeling that the sanctity of the place had been despoiled, then all was pain and blackness.

I do not know how long I laid there, but I came to with a winged being stood before us, and my friends and companions were struggling to their feet. The body of Ly was gone.
To summarise what we were told had transpired, a creature by the name of Dougal had slain us, and taken Ly’s body. Now, I was sure that I had heard Dougal’s name before, linked with that of Blood, but we were told he was the servant of the rising god Shadison – the Viper, who’s constellation is so high in our skies now. Ly, we were told, had been taken by him to a distant temple. Of course, we wished to recover her – but we were warned that there were powers far beyond us at work. I am proud to say that not a one of us faltered, and we found ourselves transported to the streets of Spellguard. Here,we were told, lay a portal to the temple, hidden in the cellar of a normal seeming house. It was with more than a little surprise that we noted our number had been joined by Sy'Ravenne and Thais.

As a group, we entered the house and began our descent. The creature had not lied, it was a difficult task. Many of the creatures who fought us used poison, and more than one I had to seek healing from it’s effects. Once, I fell truly – I was struck down by some strange child-like one as I gave healing to Ireth. Finally, we broke through to the temple proper.There before us was the body of Ly, and a dark-winged woman fighting with Dougal. I am afraid I allowed my feelings to get the better of my judgement,and ran into the fray, hoping to assist the winged stranger against what seemedto be a common enemy. Alas, I was outmatched by far, and Dougal swatted me aside as you would a fly.

Much of the rest is confusion. I have been told that Dougal left; that Sy was slain; and the winged creature raised me. Having done so,however, she demanded that bound myself in debt to her. Knowing so little ofher, this I of course was unwilling to do, but rather than discuss it with me,she struck me down herself!

I have been told that a debts of honour were exchanged while my body lay there. That Ly and Ireth offered themselves for the sake of Sy and myself. As you will understand, this sits ill with me now, as it was my duty to protect them. But, as you always said, “our own choices bind us, and no others can”. The strength of character shown impresses my still, and my resolve to be worthy is stronger than ever.

Still, questions plague me. Who, truly, was Dougal? What did he seek to gain, and what drew him to us? How will Ireth’s and Ly’s debt comeback to them?

By the time we returned, Ly was once again amongst the living, but she was not glad to be so. Did we do her a disservice? Could wehave known?

I still have much to learn, it seems

[egoober]

Old Friend, A few days of peace have passed, with little more excitment than the usual hunt for food and ore. Today however, I finally got to meet my new "adoptive sister" Sharhar. Not the best start, I am afraid.  Tell me, why do so many people react as though I have just told them of an ancient and enduring curse whey I tell them I am a Paladin?  It is not an affliction! It is a calling!  Have so many of my brothers in arms left a bad example? It seems to be assumed that to be a Paladin one must be devoid of humour, a blood-thirsty disciplinarian, with no social graces and poor personal hygiene? Or is it that there are just so few Aeridinite Paladins abroad?  Sorry, it seems to be a day for self-pity!  More soon Elladan  

[egoober]

Today was a dark day.   After rising to an empty house and completing the daily routine, I decided to head for Hlint. I often use these quiet days to smelt or work metal in the forge there, at times I can almost hear the voice of my dear stepfather all those years ago.[/i]I worked through until almost lunchtime and, having worked up quite an appetite, I decided to adjourn to the pondside and fish for lunch. Walking around towards my usual spot, I came upon Brit and Ireth in deep discussion.[/i]
It would seem that the Powers had been at work again. Brit had been told that by one of the Avatars of the Planes that Ireth’s debt was about to come due, and he must train her in preparation. That she was to be the ‘Chosen’ of Dougal. Even not knowing what that would mean, I still felt a chill run down my spine – and I was right. Brit continued to explain that Dougal’s interest was,well, intimate in nature, but accepting this was part of Ireth debt. [/i]
Just as my head was swimming with the injustice of it all, it was Ireth’s turn to surprise me. Without a word, she undressed before us, and changed into a stunning red outfit that left little to the imagination. Ireth has been my friend for many a month now, and nothing has passed between us in all that time save friendship, but the feelings that rose in me then where not those for a friend. Doubly, they were not the feelings one should have for another man’s wife. I was ashamed, and bereft of words for a moment,before making some stumbling compliment as I dismissed such feelings from my mind.[/i]
We talked for a little longer, when all at once I felt oppression in the air – the palpable sense of evil as Dougal the fallen appeared before us. He mocked Brit and I openly, sneering at my faith as “illusion”, before he snatched up Ireth and was gone. There was nothing Brit or I could do to stop him. I have met this man in combat once before, fully prepared and armoured, and been bested in the blink of an eye. Here I stood in my robes, with my staff. What could I have done?[/i]
[/i]
Brit and I stood there in the sudden quiet. I am ashamed to say that what little composure I had recovered had now been stripped from me, and I wept for the injustice of it all. How could I have been so selfish? My dearest friend’s true love had been stripped from his side, and all I could do was weep and rail against the world.[/i]
Brit needed guidance.By Aeridin, I[/b] needed guidance. There was nothing to be done here, so we resolved to seek out the Temple in Rangers Grove and I would pray there. Mayhap my head would clear and a  just path would show itself to me? I knew in my heart that there was nothing to be done, but Brit needed to be doing something - no matter how futile. As we left the gates of Hlint I paused, realising that this place of sanctuary had been stripped from us, and the town would never feel the same again.[/i]
We had made some progress across the Goblin Wastes, when we were approached by a slight woman, barely clad in forest green but covered in the marks of a whip. As she approached, she stumbled and fell. We rushed to her side, and I summoned the healing power the Lifegiver has blessed me with. It helped a little, as she stirred and coughed –blood and poison it seemed. A healing draught helped her a little more, and she was able to talk. [/i]
[/i]
She told us that Ireth was dead. [/i]
Even in our darkest hour, the Lifegiver can send aid. Coming along the path was the winged man who had aided us so well day before in the Grey Peaks.I knew him to be Plenarius, a talented healer, and so I beseeched him to help this woman. As we suspected, a strong poison was at work and he could do but a little, what healing he managed caused her great pain.[/i]
It transpired that she was Maurelle, “link” to Arborea,and Arborea was where Ireth’s body lay. She could take us there, and Ireth could still be saved.B rit seemed lost and confused, unable to take in the enormity of what was happening without his lady by his side. Still, it was agreed that we should goto Arborea, and that Plenarius would accompany us.[/i]
I shall never forget the sight that awaited us on our arrival. Ireth’s broken and battered body lying were she had fallen in the leaves. The tranquillity of this beautiful place, marred by this desecration of her life. [/i]
Maurelle[/i] could raise her, but only at great cost to herself. Dougal had done this, knowing that we would follow. Knowing that to raise her would weaken the defender of this place. But what else could we do? [/i]
Amazingly, her first words were to berate herself. She gave no thought to her own condition,her only concern was that others might suffer for her own failure. After much talk on Dougal and his plans for the planes, were turned by Portal to Hlint.[/i]
I seemed a strange coincidence that I had prayed for guidance to Aeridin whilst in Arborea, overwhelmed as I was, and upon our return to Hlint Ireth pointed out to me a Priestess of Aeridin. Having made sure that Brit and Ireth as well as they could be, and surrounded by whispered questions about the two of them, I went over and introduced myself. I am afraid I made a poor impression,  my speech was rambling and illdisciplined as I tried to convey some of what had befallen us.[/i]
[/i]
But what shall stay with me forever, are the knowledge of Ireth’s courage and self-sacrifice, and the sight of her scarred and beaten body as it lay before us[/i]

[egoober]

(journal entry) Maurelle's suspicions have proved to be correct. Whenever Ireth is injured, the same green posion flows from her wounds. When she is healed by magic, the agony that wracks her body is terrible. There must be something to be done. Hopefully, our attempts to contact Ozymadias Llewellyn will meet with success, and he may be able to help us.

[egoober]

Ozymandias came to visit us.
I am afraid I find the man detestable, but there is no doubt that he has great power and knowledge. If it were not for the great need,I would never be able to stand his company. As it was, I had to restrain myself on more than one occasion during our talk.
Despite all that, we learnt a great deal. About the origins of Dougal and his fall from grace as a Paladin. I never believed that I could feel sympathy for that creature, but in a sad way I do. If I had been in his position, could I have done any better?
Llewellyn is convinced that Blood’s forces will over run us, no matter what we do to defend ourselves. He believes that our only hope is to prevent Sinthar gaining full control of the planes through which he plans to attack us. Dougal may be a key to this. If he is killed, then his child shall replace him with an evil at least as great.
But if he, Dougal the Indifferent, can be made to care once more, then there may be hope. If Shadison’s hold on his heart could be broken, would that not be a mighty triumph for the forces of Life and Good?
Ireth commented that she could not understand what Dougal might be attracted to in her. We had explain to her that, aside from her beauty,she has a passion for life that call out to those around her, that her innocence is remarkable, that her simple joy in being must draw him to her…..
Can it be done? Can such a force of evil be brought back into the light? Perhaps it may, but where do we start?

[egoober]

I am sat here, re-reading my previous diary entry.  How could I be so blind? How could I let this happen to me,  for all my discipline can I not control my own heart? She must never know. He must never know. It could destroy them.  I shall stay silent. In time the pain will pass, and I can take some pleasure in her happiness at least  

[egoober]

This is foolishness, and I am fast coming to conclude that it cannot continue. I believe that the most honourable thing I can do now, is to leave Blackford and not return. Brit is more capable that I to defend Ireth. She has friends galore. Thinking I am required is nothing but pride on my part. There are other places on Mistone, or Rilara, where I could do as much good; where I could serve as well as I can here.

I shall leave soon, but first I have some promises to keep.

[egoober]

I am called to service. I am bound to serve. He who gave me life has need of me, an who am I to deny it?
I have a new focus now, and all must give way before it. My desires, hopes and idle dreams mean nothing before the flood of darkness that awaits us should I, and those like me, fail in our tasks. This, I understand now, is not pride: it is simple truth and I must bow before it.

I had decided to journey to Rilara for several reasons, butI had not expected the two to come along. Still, I could not refuse them, and was glad of the company. There is a part of me that hungers for time spent with her, no matter what form it takes – but that is unimportant.

He had journeyed long, and done much. I walked with Ireth ,Brit was a little ways ahead. A caught the barest glimpse of a shadow on thepath ahead. Mansized, it was, and evil radiated. For a moment I sensed it, and only for a moment. Ireth, however, stopped in her tracks, pale and afraid, yet resolute.
I knew it was him: Dougal Pococurante.
She spoke with Dougal, denying him, and then he was gone –just in time for Brit to return, unaware as ever and ready to vent his fury atthe wind. Then, we were alone no more – it was a visitation from another of thepowers. She was distressed to learn that she had missed Dougal, and began to speak with Ireth. Afraid he would lose her again, Brit fled.
Something in her manner made her trust this vision so, atIreth’s bequest, I went after Brit, hoping to bring him back to her. I found him in a field a little way off, pacing to and fro, hands clenched in useless rage. He was convinced that Ireth had been taken, and that there was nothing he could do.
I fear I was not kind to him. For a man who loves so strongly, it amazes me that he can have so little empathy. I told him that his wife was alone and afraid, and that he had left her so. “there is nothing I can do” were his words. I tried over and over again to make him understand that she needed his support. That sword were of no use, and she need to be held, and loved, and comforted. AND THAT WAS HIS JOB.
In time he was convinced, and returned to her side. For amoment I did not know what made me the more angry, his inability to support her– or the fact that his actions prevented me from being there for her; but, she needed him, so I sent him back to her.

When we returned Ireth was still there, as was the “Angel”,and she gave us news. Ireth is with child. Keaira'tynen had taken Dougal’s poison from her in order to save the child – the child that Dougal wants forhis own.
Of course, Brit accused the spirit of wanting to steal thechild, and at that, she left with a blessing.
The two of them had much to talk upon. And I had much to think about, so I left them to each other and sat by the riverside to pray. I do not know how much time passed before I opened my eyes and saw the figure before me. A huge manlike being, clad in armour, with an aura of power that washed over me. Menacing and yet beneficent. This could only be one of the Celestials.The guilt that lies in my heart betrayed me, and I was afraid. I thought that this was a judgement upon me and fell once more to my knees.
“Brave Paladin of Aeridin there is no need to kneel to me” it said. Brave? Here I was quaking in dread, and it called me brave! I asked ifI was to be judged, but no the being was here to deliver a warning.
He confirmed that the Angel, Tikvah'ulla, was true. Even theDevil Keaira'tynen was no threat. It seems that the need to defeat Shadison has made for strange bedfellows. Brit, however, was not helping matters: “Your friend..Brit... if he does not learn to discern those that help him from those that harm him he will do nothing but aid Dougal in gaining power” he warned.
I had asked what we mere mortals could do. “Protect the Child” was the answer.
I swore then and there I that would do so. While there is breath in my body, or my spirit can return to it, I shall protect her.
Ireth’s child has been blessed. She is “marked for greatness”.I never thought I could see a being such as this show fear, and yet when hespoke of what might come to pass if the greatness was in evil, he was afraid.

And now I am left. I cannot leave Ireth’s side. I have told Brit and Ireth of what transpired there, of what I was told. And I have told them of my oath. I almost wept before her as she railed against the unjustice of her fate, but managed to deflect her questions as to why
I shall stay true. There shall be no easy departure for me. Everyday I must deal with my feelings and push them aside, for I have a purpose. Something which is bigger than I; something far more important than my own happiness in this life. I shall not be found wanting. I will take what joy I can from this life where I can, and accept that the greater joy is denied to me. I shall heal. This is a part of what I swore when I became a Paladin, that the service comes first. To protect life is what I must do, it is who I am.  
But the child must be protected above all. The child, and Ireth herself. Or we may all be lost, and the coming of Blood may seem as a breath of wind before the coming storm.

[egoober]

Dear Master Grythir
It would seem that Brit and Ireth have decided to move to a new abode, in Fort Llast. They have decided that rooming in Master Nossyla's home, whilst pleasant, is not ideal to the needs of a forthcoming child.
Of course, given the nature of my oath, I shall be taking a room with them - at least for now. I have not spoken of this to Master Noss, but I don't think there is a need as of yet. If he needed my room to relet I am sure he would tell me,  and having a safe haven may prove useful in the future. I shall, instead, continue to save the little gold I do not spend on healing supplies to pay off the debt to him.
For now, at least, letters should continue top be sent via Postmaster Vale in Hlint. They are sure to reach me through him.
Your servant,
Elladan

[egoober]

Ireth and I had a long talk last night. We spoke at some length on the nature of her relationship with Brit. She is afraid, and feeling more than a little lost. Brit has had many problems coming to terms with the events that have transpired over the last few months, especially concerning the child,and I fear it has affected how he behaves towards her. He has become more controlling, stifling almost.
I suppose I should not have been surprised to find she mayhave been distracted by another: hard though it was for me to hear.  Kaiser is a rogue in many, even most, respects, but his declared feelings for her may be true. She is too confused to know how she feels. I think the attention excites her, and he encourages her to be herself, instead of being over protective. Of course, he could just be exploiting he weakness for his own ends. Much as it goes against many of my principles to almost encourage oathbreaking, I had to accept that the end of her marriage was a possibility. I told her that she had to be true to herself: that unless she was sure what she felt, and accepted that, she could not be true to anyone else. She must not rush into a relationship at the expense of her marriage,  neither must she live a lie.
Rarely has there been advice that was harder to give. A part of me was screaming to encourage her to leave, to run away with me. That given time away from these distractions she could learn to love me. By accepting these feelings I denied them. Nothing born of such treachery would amount to anything of value, and I must be true to her. I resisted temptation, and gave her what advice I could as a friend. I reassured her that I would support her when she needed me, even if she decides that Kai was for her. Rarely have words been harder to speak, but her happiness comes first.

I must confess, however, that when she retired to bed I tookup my quarterstaff and ventured into the crypts of Hlint. As I suspected, the undead had risen again there, and I purged myself by pitting myself against them, armed with the Staff, and armoured only by my faith. Strange to think that at one time these creatures would have filled me with dread, but this night they fell before me in numbers. I spoke the Lifegiver’s name to them, and they fell before me. Those that did not, succumbed to my staff. Catharsis can be valuable.

I feel more at peace with my own feelings now. Many hours have I passed in meditation on the subject, difficult as this can be sometimes as the mind tends to wander to less than pure thoughts! I know she is not the woman for me, and she will never feel for me in that way but I love her still. As time passes I feel I may be growing accustomed to that. Perhaps if I had felt love before, it would be easier, but the occasional tumble in the hay did not prepare me for this. Perhaps, one day, I shall find happiness of my own.  

Until then, my oaths and my service shall sustain me. As does your friendship “old man”
Look after youself
Elladan

[egoober]

Well it has been a busy few days. Ireth had asked me to accompany her to assist some friends in an expedition to the Berhagen Mountains. Of course I agreed, and we began the long journey to Fort Velensk– this first time I had been there. I was more than a little surprised to find that Ireth was more than familiar with the route, and quite capable of avoiding the more dangerous areas. Journeys like that one remind me what a talented scout she is, whether it be her elven heritage or a random talent, she can blend into the woods in a moment. In a sense, it was quite like the old times, when we first met each other outside Hlint, except that Ireth was far more confident than ever before. I feel that the trials she has been lately through have made her grow in many ways, and I sometimes wonder how Brit will cope with this stronger, more able woman she has become – if he has the chance.
Shortly after our arrival in Velensk, she introduced me the friends that we were to accompany. Angela I already knew, Nex Wintergaard and Jeran Valhaikor were previously unknown to me. Abigail Ruzz I thought I had met before. Actually we had met on a couple of occasions; most recently at the Lielon Masquerade ;she had struck me as a troubled soul. Each time we had talked, I had the impression of intense pain. She spoke without inflection; she took no joy in life. Each time we had met, either her will or my own commitments had prevented me from truly helping her.
This time, however, she was a different person. Given that Nex and Jeran had errands to complete before setting out, and Ireth requested some time to talk in private with Angela, Abigail and I were left together for several hours in Velensk, and we talked. Awkwardly at first, but soon we were talking freely. We talked of family, and history, and old pain; of love and loss; judgement and acceptance. It was amazing how easy she was to talk to once the barriers came down, she was the first person I have talked to about the pain of my dead family – of how my heritage set me aside from others. She talked of her heritage, and of how people would judge her for it. We are very different, but we have much in common also. Angela’s love for her has done more to heal her wounds that years of counselling could have managed.Once again, I see the Lifegiver’s hand in action around me.
Eventually, Angela returned, and the journey commenced, although by now Ireth was tired, and chose not to join us.
I shall not bore you with the fine details of the next few days. We travelled far into the mountains, were attacked many times by giants.I was hesitant at first, but grew in confidence as I grew to know and trust those alongside whom I fought. Nex aided with his magics, and I know that without his aid I would have been slain on more than one occasion. Jeran is a fine and mighty warrior, Angela fights with a speed and accuracy few can match,and Abi…Abi could seem to disappear into shadow and flit into sight again, striking where least expected. I tell you, her agility and grace would do a mountain lion proud! The truest measure of the new found friends came as we returned, however. In the driving blizzards I became separated from the others.For many hours I wandered the mountains alone in the driving snow, before finding a steep climb down to the valley. There I found them. Realising that I was lost, they had made camp and waited for me, for almost a full day. They risked much by staying there, and that spirit of comradeship shall not be forgotten.
At length, we returned to Fort Velenskand there Nex left us. Angela, Jeran, Abi and I began the journey back to Lielon,but the journey was not uneventful. We slipped past the lizardmen’s territory with little event, although Abi briefly was caught by one of the foul beasts.The Broken Forest, however, was a different matter.I swear the unquiet spirits that plague that place become stronger by the day.We were attacked in great number, some I held at bay by Aeridin’s will, but they seemed to resist even that as they swarmed against us. I fought side by sidewith Abi, attempting to keep as many of the fiends from her as I could, but at last I fell, overwhelmed by the sheer number of them. Once again, however, I escaped the clutches of the Soulmother, and was able to return to my friends sides.
Once we had cleared the Forest,the walk to Lielon was a peaceful one. At length we arrived, and chose to take our ease at the Arms there. I, perhaps foolishly, spent my last few coins on wine for Abi..I don’t think that she noticed I was drinking water as her one drink had emptied my purse!
It was a busy night, and soon the noise and crowds took their toll. Abigail and Angela were tired, as was I after a long journey. I offered to walk them to their home. They are more than capable of protecting themselves, but it seemed the right thing to do. Once there, we talked for short while before I took my leave. It was a joy to see the love in their eyes as they relaxed with each other, and an honour to be invited to share that personal space with them. That night, and that journey, shall live in my memory for a long time. You servant
Elladan