Daniel's letters to father and mother

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A single tear slides down and comes to rest on the end of his long mustache as Daniel stares into the pond.  Clutching  a crumpled note to his chest, Daniel sighs and recalls the words written there.  “There are things I must do in Dregar.  It will be some time before I return.   Drawna”   A spasm of pain crosses his face and he rises quickly to his feet.  “Nary an explanation or expression of true feeling in it” he says frowning.  Daniel begins pacing a slow military march back and forth for a time, letting the comforting routine of it sooth his heart and nerves.  As he walks, his thoughts slow and he repeats his promise  “Always and anon, I grant her freedom to go where she wished, never didst I cage her spirit and never would dwell on its capture.  For sooth, I believeth that in time she wilst return to me of her own free will or not at all, mine Lord Protector willing”.  Smiling at that thought, Daniel places the now crumpled note with another bit of paper, this last bearing strange flowing script and a crude drawing of a ring, a ring of twisted gold and blue stone.   The script reads “E ils el ceela ameanir aey Drawna” Tucking both ito his left breastplate  Daniel says softly,  “Aye, I shall hold mine heart's desire in her for that future day.”  

Threas, Decilar 19, 1404

Dear Mother and Father,

I must confess to a poor spirit whilst writing, for mine love, Drawna hast left me to journey in Dregar for a time.  But for the constant presence of Mine Lord Protector, my heart be empty of joy for her absence.  Further poor showing in field of battle, reduced mine life by another thread.  Grim news indeed, but fear not, over half of mine life remains still.  

I labor at metal crafting of late and lessons in elvish continue.  I must laugh at mineself for my elvish be poor at best and soundeth like the utterance of an orc even unto mine own ears.  The All Seeing take pity on Captain Rain's sensibilities in the matter, for he be a most patient instructor.   Of the crafting, mine labors wield me arrowheads and naught else.  I was able to sell some of mine work to the Freelancers for a fee so mayhap twas time well spent.  

I met the sister of a dear friend the other day, Tarrna Falcus be her name.  She is a daughter of Toran and as such she be welcomed as a sister and friend.  Praylor faileth to mention her afore and after I spent the day with her I knoweth why – He fears for her virtue, for her purity wilst attract all manner of scoundrel.  As is mine duty, I will protect and nurture her until the day she canst defend herself from such miscreants.  

Brother Jaleel hast been strangely absent of late.  He confessed to mineself that he had fallen in battle several times and that some half a dozen of those fellings, the soul mother claimeth her portion.  Such tales saddened me further, for without his counsel and sharp wit, I wouldst be prone to all manner of foolishness.  Still, one must accept the inevitability of one's final rest with the All Seeing.  To deny the soul mother her right is to deny the life served itself and wouldst lessen the value of both.  

The light dims and mine thoughts stray so I will bid ye both farewell.  Lord Protector keep ye from harm.

All my love,
Your son, Daniel
 
//got a note from Drawna, she's going away for a time.   Got waxed showing Tarrna around Mistone and lost a thread that makes 4 down 6 left.  Worked on a commision for the Freelancers to make copper arrowheads.  See this thread: http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=29465&posts=3&start=1

Also had a brief in game session with Rain in elvish.  I don't have my notes here, but learned teacher, hello, and thank you in elvish.  plug plug plug away at it

I think I will have to cut back on the Layo cool aid for a while.  All I can taste anymore is Layo flavors and I need to re balance my personal life a bit.  

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Satari, Jenra 21, 1405

Dear Mother and Father,

I writeth with a joy in mine heart.  I hath been accepted to the Angels, a guild based in Krandor and led by Kyle Pandorn.  Sooth it be more of a family, than guild, and I am most glad that it is so.  Mine first task – work copper into shields and mayhap armor.  It be most tiresome work and my skill be poor in it.  I seeth many forays to the Red Light Caverns and Sielwood for copper.  I attempted to work bronze, but all mine work was for naught.  All burneth in the forge fire to ash.  Still, mine determination to be of use to my new family is undaunted.  I will work harder.

Elvish continues to elude me.  Mine tongue be a clumsy instrument in its crafting of tense and verb.  Some words I hath learned:  

Anirilln – Thank

aey – you

anilnyriam – teacher

Tis slow going, for this elvish slips and flits bout mind and ear and I forget almost as much as I learn.

 I learned a bit about Miss Jennara, Heart of the Dragon and Knight of the Wyrm, the other day.  I founeth her and Mylindra, Jaleel, and Praylor at the benches.  I made tea for all and we spoke of manner things afore we maketh a journey to Sielwood.  One topic was guilds and membership to such.  Brother Jaleel feeleth such alliances art a conflict with the vows of the faithful; Miss Jennara feeleth a bit different on the matter and stated that she belonged to a guild herself!  Twas a statement that easeth mine mind and quieted Brother's lamentations.  We had sharp words one to another on it, but in the end, an uneasy truce in the matter came about.  I pray to the Lord Protector that Jaleel accept in time mine feelings on such matters.    

I see by the posting in the Wild Surge Inn, that another year hast past.  By mine reckoning, I be some 24 winters old now and have spent 4 years of mine life in Hlint.

All my Love,
Thy Son, Daniel

//self explanatory I think.

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Mulnari, Junar 2, 1405.

Hlint, Mistone

Dear Mother and Father,

Ye pardon's for the length of time since mine last letter.  I hath been most busy working the forge on behalf of mine new family, Illvacla eo El'Wilmlayla, Angels or In'Darsus, as Rain informeth me.  That be our guilds name.  Most fortunate for me that I learneth elvish, else its pronunciation be impossible.  Other elvish I hath learned:

Omealw – Friend

Omealwla – Friends

To say hello friends – Iracce omealwla

I learneth the words, but as the snail crosses the path.  Alas, I hath not the life span of an elf, and despair of ever learning its mysteries in full.  

I must mention an act of kindness that hast befallen me.  Friend Drogo, Omealw Drogo, gifted mineself with the enchantment of shocking on mine sword.  Whenst I strike, mine enemies feel its bite.  Twas a kindness I shan't forget.

Friend Dalan, and another Warrior, Jako, hath joined our family.  I am shamed to admit, both surpasseth mine own meager skills some two fold in metal work, but I wilst press on in the application.  

Naught else but the forge for mineself.  I wilst seek out some adventure soon, afore mine spirit despair of caverns and smoky forges.  

Mine heart lieth quiet in mine chest.  No missive from Drawna and I hath not seen Brother Jaleel in o're a month.  I pray for them both, may the Lord Protector keepeth them both safe.  

Most shocking of all, a female warrior of the bow, an Ellis, sought to 'take' me bodily to be her mate.  Captain Rain, saveth me with his quick thinking and a concealing spell.  I feareth no man, but Drawna scorned be mine death, to be sure.

All mine Love,
Thy son, Daniel

//work work work work work work.  ok it pays well, but oh for some adventure!   The guild did make a run to Haven once or twice so that was fun.  Smelting is almost to lvl 6, almost to level 2 in weapons and armor.  Tinkering lvl 5, and carpentry lvl 2.  Sad, but true.  I need to boost my strength and intelligence with some items.  Time to spend some of that guild gold.  
edited to correct guild name and meaning.

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Daniel pulls a bit of parchment from his pack and dips his quill in ink:

Mulnari, Seplar 23, 1405

to do:

Deposit guild money's with Rain or at guildhall
transfer armors to chests at Guild Hall
Gather clay for ring and amulet molds
Make ring and amulet molds

“that be enough for a weeks work methinks.”  Daniel sets the quill aside and gathers his tools and equipment and sets out for Krandor from Hlint.


//sometime that evening about the time of the hangings


Daniel kneels to pray in a secluded spot close to Haven Castle.  The scent of possies and daisies scent the air while slow currents swirl in the nearby pond.  Stone hovers protectively in columns on either side of him as he begins his prayer, “Vigilance be mine shield, protect me from a squalid past, knowledge be mine weapon, in which I carve a path to an enlightened future.  Lord Protector, I swore an oath to thee obey mine superiors, yet the heart be rended most sore o're the executions in Pranzis.  Captain Duval calleth for restraint and temperance but I feeleth  thy priests art suspect of collaboration with the," he pauses and swallows hard,"ruler of Pranzis and I canst not fathom thy design in this.  Grant me thy wisdom or failing that, thy peace so that I may know thy chosen path. “  Closing his eyes, Daniel remembers Freldo's laughter at most everything and Jharl's admittance of a Xeenite lover.   Most important of all, he recalls  their character, kindness, and goodness.   Tears flow as his shoulder's hunch in grief,  “Farewell friends, “ he whispers to himself, letting go.  Opening his eyes, Daniel sees a wonder,  as he prayed a small red rose grew up between the daisies right in front of him.  Nodding to himself, Daniel gently plucks the rose from its spot.  “Thy sign Lord Protector?",he asks as he glances upward,"thank you,” he whispers in reverent awe wiping the tears away.  “I knoweth not what will happen this day, but I accept thy will, Mine Lord Protector.  I see it now, mine heart hast held naught but bitterness for that do..general and pride in mine own doings and that must change afore I canst truly understand thy justice.”    

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Carefully dipping a rag into a mix of vinegar and water, Daniel carefully removes the dirt and blood from his equipment.  Laid out on a chest in 138 Krandor, he takes stock of his belongings:  an enchanted iron longsword and shield, an oak longbow with some two dozen bronze tipped arrows, a pair of gloves, a couple of rings, old green boots, bear cloak along with a plain belt, battered golden plate mail, a bag of various tools,  and a spare set of robes in Angel guild colors completes his small pile of possessions.  “It be not much for show for 5 years of service but mayhap those gifts art of the heart and mind” Daniel ponders a bit on this thought and smiles, “Aye, that be the way of it.”  Snatching up his well used sword and shield quickly he goes through some combat routines.  The blade and shield an extension of his will and they move through space in fluid movements.  His calloused hands grip both firmly yet with the flexibility to parry and slash in but an eye's blink.  As he comes into a defensive stance, shield at the front, sword poised for a mighty downward  slash, a letter is dislodged from his gear.  It floats gently to the floor, wherein Daniel bends and picks it up gently.  Frowning he mutters, “Wherefore didst I forget this?”  He opens the seal and reads:

Sunra, Decilar 1, 1405

Milady Drawna,

How I miss thee so, tis been many months...


Tears fill his eyes and he quickly reseals the letter, forcing back a sob.  “Nay, I will not pine o're that which cannot be helped, she will return or no, in her own time.” Daniel sighs and places the letter back in his pack, to be delivered as soon as he is able.  He quickly repacks his gear and heads outside, whistling for Bessie, his ox, “come along old girl, we hath ore to mine.”

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A small collection of thoughts on paper, stuffed together along with lists and letters lies stuffed in a cougar bag.  A newly written note lies on top.




Tunar, Febra 3, 1406

Wondrous news, Milady Drawna hast been spotted in Mistone!  Captain Rain spoke of meeting her most recent.  *Daniel pulls out the ring made by Mercas and a red rose* It hast been o’re a year now, love, since thee left,  I wonder if thou even remembereth me?  No matter, *a pained look crosses Daniel’s face*, what tales shall thou tell, what adventures hast thou had?   I be most eager to heareth such.  

Master Kyle and Milady Ferrit hath new member to our family, Cole Pandorn.  I beheld the child some days past whenst Kyle gaveth Ferrit some respite.  Tis a handsome baby and most welcome.  Sooth, I feeleth the uncle role in his life.

Elvish words and phrases- compilation to date

Anirillan : Teacher

Anirilln aey : thank you

Iracce: Hello

Iream ilma aey:  How are you?

E ils el ceela ameanir aey : I am in in love with you.  (painstakingly gleaned from books and Rhynn’s notes from Kaya //exploring the past  for a very specific purpose)


To do:

Findeth Drawna.

Asketh her a question.

Giveth her this ring.

Mine ore and practice smithing

// 11th level now,  Spend most of my time, mining/smithing Trips to Dregar for materials for the guild.  Elvish goes very slowly.  I figure with Int bumps at 12th and 16th lvl I can request the ear then. The Int bumps will have the added benefit of helping Daniel Craft and he needs all the help he can get.  Daniel will probably be in his 30’s by then and maybe even retired.  NWN 2 will probably come first.  He he.  That is if he lives that long.  ;p

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“She be here, but hours ago” a near frantic Daniel crawls among the stones near Haven Castle, “her scent be here, but wherein canst she be?”  Sighing Daniel sits down and slowly calms himself by breathing.  In slowly, out slowly, his breath flows from his lungs as his troubled heart slows.  After a few moments, he stops and ponders the wherefore of his distress.  “She be near enough”, he thinks to himself, “that will sufficeth for now.”  another thought intrudes,  “Bah, tis been over a year, since we set eyes one to another, she hath forgotten mineself.  Perchance the wiser course wouldst be to forget her or try to.”  The last thought provokes a pang of regret immediately.  Daniel focuses instead on what he has seen the last few weeks to divert himself.  The Pandorns, Kyle and Ferrit had a baby boy, Cole.  Darsus' twins have grown rapidy into toddlers.  Dalan remains unchanged as the stone he onced live in, stalwart and true.  The  engmatic Mercas, the stern yet friendly Dora, the straight forward Elgon, and the rarely seen Jako.  All of them be mine family in a sense, but something be missing.  Daniel pulls himself forward and stretches out above the water of the pond and  looks down.  The crows feet and laugh lines are a bit deeper, the mustache as dark and thick as ever, drooping over his cheeks.   The nose, a bit crooked from repeated breakings and healings.  Grey – green eyes that stare back and regard him with a bit of mischief and self mocking mirth.  A plain, common face of a warrior who has seen twenty seven winters.   “I be not a Knight yet and hath no little ones of mine own.” That thought  intrudes, regrets both and unbefitting for a Potentiate of Rofirein's  and as such should be banished from the mind the faithful, but yet..  they remain.  

another page of crumple parchment is added to the stack in the cougar bag.

Satari, Mar 21, 1406

Mine thoughts be troubled, but herein be an accounting of the past events.  First, mine parents hath passed beyond mine ability to visit them.  They be interred in the family plot in Luck.  Some disease brought by the cold conditions. *tears wet a spot on the page and the writing is less neat*  Mine eldest brother, Stephan hast taken over the family trade and maketh it very clear that I shouldst stay away for a time.  I believeth he fears my connections in Hlint and wouldst seek to undermine his new authority.  Bah, he canst have it.  His heart be of Deliar, all coins and wealth, not Honor and Duty, hence it suiteth his nature.

The Church remaineth silent other than Captain Duvall.  I fear for its existence under Broegar and Pranz's new administration.  Twould seem to die the wimpering death instead of the roaring one of a True Dragon.  Further,  there be talk of a rebellion. To be branded heretic be not mine aim, but if it bringeth and end to the twisted justice of Broegar, I be most interested in it.  The Lord Protector be merciful upon us.

Newly dragon called continue to invade Hlint.  Miss Melanna, Muriel, Isendel, Rihana, Maple *chuckles to himself* , and many others.  Twould seemeth that some other task be required of us, though few seem to give direction to its beginning.  May that knowledge be granted soon.  

Mine elvish studies proceed.  New words I hath learned:

ils – I am

wela – done

tymilaelv – praying

fitting mayhap, for sooth it be a time of action not prayer.

To do:

Letter to Captain Duvall, requesting a meeting of the faithful and a initiation for the Knights of the Wyrm in Velensk.  Further to request all Knights of the Wyrm ceremonies to be held in Velensk until such time as the Temple in Pranzis be reclaimed or a Temple be raised in Roldem.  

Strengthen mine sword arm and smithing skills.  

Forget mine Lady Drawna.  *last is scrawled in hastily*

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Daniel eyes the molten bronze critically, looking for the telltale signs of an impure balance of copper an d tin such as bubbles or an uneven color.  “good, good” he mutters to himself nodding as the metal alloy slowly cools into ingots.  Next he carries the 4 dull brown ingots to the tinker device, selecting small clay forms made earlier, he loads them and the bronze unto a tray and seals the device.  Immediately a large bellow of smoke and steam erupts from the top and a shocking jolt of white fire leaps from the controls and blackens his hand.  “Blasted device!” Daniel curses loudly and quickly places the scorched digits in a cool bucket of water.  A quick bandage and some herbal salves ease the burn.    Eying the device with some apprehension, he checks it for damage, amazingly, it appears serviceable still.  He unseals the tray and checks the contents which remain intact as well.  “Rofirein be praised tis a wonder of gnomish engineering.” is heard as he reseals the tray door and waits as the the device whirls and sputters its way through the process of molding arrowheads.  A low humming is heard as the tray pops its seals marking completion of the process.  Daniel knocks the clay from the newly minted arrowheads and heads for the fetchers booth.

Once there, he pulls a bundle of arrow shafts made earlier and a cougar bag of stirge feathers.    He prefers stirge feathers for their bright red color.    Matching shaft, feather, and arrowheads takes a bit of patience and time, but soon his pile of arrowheads dwindles to none and the pile of arrows grows.  Smiling in satisfaction, Daniel cleans up and heads out of the craft hall for more materials.  

a recently purchased parchment folder is tucked inside Daniel's pack.  Inside it are all the letters Daniel sent home, recently recovered from his parent's home in Luck along with several crumpled yet readable bits of parchment.

Tunar, Mai 24, 1406

I wilst pen mine thoughts herein as mine brother Stephan hath made it clear, that he wishes for no contact.  I hath decided to let go of mine love, Drawna, and focus instead on mine work.   The birth of Cole, hast diminished none of Lady Ferrit's salesmanship.  Sooth, her vigilance and diligence in guild sales surpasseth all of  the rest of the guilds efforts of late.  By way of thanks, I hath been turning a bit of mine time to making arrows for her and Rain's use.  


Whilst on a recent trip to Berhagen Mountains with the guild, I met someone whom I feeleth a connection to.  I will leave her name unwritten, but she weareth no shoes to be more in touch with her goddess.   We spoke but briefly outside Velensk, as I looked into her eyes, I beheld a faith, that I be shamed to say, I envy and yearn for in mineself.  I wilst seeketh her again whenst I can to explore this feeling of ..*pauses* interest.  


//apologies to Drawna, Its now a 1 ½ years gt since Daniel has seen her.  We can have a spat when you finally make it back to Layo.  This will now turn into a journal as Daniel's parents have died.  Crafting skills are slowly improving.  Wood Crafting : 4, Tinkering/smelting : 7  Armor/weapon smithing: 3.  Limiting factor continues to be getting enough material to work with.

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“I must get to Hlint!” Dora sobs as she runs past me on the road in the goblin wastes.  “What hast happened, pray tell me?!!”  I ask as I follow.  She heeds me not but continues her crying, her normally stately poise dissolved hunch - like in grief and death, for her form bears the mark of recent falling.   We come upon Kyle and Rain, and Ferrit some moment later near the temple of Ilsare.  All look distraught and sad.  “Elgon.. is DEAD!” Dora bursts out, “I saw the soul mother take him the final time.”  A collective gasp and cry arise from the group.  None know how to respond.  Milady Ferrit, ever the practical one, remarks that we knew this day was to come.   Sooth, tis so as Elgon lived his life always on the edge of danger.  “How did he fall?”, asks Rain.  “To giants in the cave at the Forests of Mist in Dregar” is the answer from Dora through her tears.  

I feel mixed emotions at this news.  I remember earlier thoughts on my own death and reaching the conclusion that a life not truly lived is not a life worth living.  Mine Lord Protector would not welcome warriors whom shirked from danger or failed to perform their duty.  Elon would stand proud in front of his god for he had always done what was needed!  I remember the last few weeks getting to know him, a mighty warrior and a steadfast friend, nay ..a brother.  I have sworn to seek out and aid Lance in his training, his care, and be his welcome.  I will do this in memory of my brother Elgon.  Veew faa Elgon, mine brother.

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Freas, Oclar 20, 1406

Mine thoughts art at once joyous and somewhat despairing. I hath recently fallen and supped with the soul mother for the fifth time, twas in pursuit of Estibana, so it be worth the sacrifice, methinks.  We succeeded in restoring the avatar of Shindy.  *runs his hands lovingly over  a curiously made shield*  A fitting gift. *pauses to reflect*  Mine old shield, lost in the forest north of Hlint, hath not the same quality.  Mayhap a bit of paint to honor Mine Lord Protector , sooth the substance of it wilst remain the same.  

No missives from Drawna, no word, nothing.  Mine heart remaineth hopeful for her safe return from Dregar, yet reality be mine heart yearns little for her of late.  I hath seen little of  the Priestess of Grannoch. In a chance encounter, a months past, she telleth me that mine attentions art strange to her as I spoke of mine admiration for her devotion to her goddess.  The Gold's patience and wisdom aid me in this.  

The Angels art mine family and hath been tasked with a tremendous order.  Some twenty large  iron shields, commisioned by Lady Katrien.  Perchance a war be in the making?  Mine old shield wilst be added to this order as well as any iron I be able to wrest from the ogres of Haven.

//an ending to the Exploring the Past quest with a 'to be continued'.  Hopefully, Daniel will still be alive to attempt the next.  The DT was probably way overdue.  Daniel has died about 7 times in the last two weeks.  You can only tempt the soul mother so many times before.. well. I heard Lin'da speak of being around long after Daniel is gone.  Maybe truth spoken.    

skills: wood crafting to 4, tinkering and smelting almost to 8.

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Daniel kneels in prayer and lifts his face to a cloudy night sky, “Mine Lord Protector, I thank thee for this gift .”  Remembering, Daniel pictures the large and graceful Tera sitting somewhat nervously on the ground.  Her long hair cascades across her shoulders as she regards him with a mix of disbelief and hopefully..the start of something more. Taking her hands into his, Daniel searches her eyes,  “Doth thou knowest what love be?”  He says to her.  She offers no reply but a curious look, so he answers with what come to his mind first,  “The gently touch of a mother's hand to babe, spring winds on freshly bloomed flowers, and the soft moonlight  on thy eyes.”  Daniel's recital continues for some moments before he thinks to himself “Fool of a man, thou shalt frighten the poor creature to death with thy pleas of good will and love.  Looketh at her, she hath the visage of a deer in bow sight; trusting, yet filled with fear of the unknown.    Sooth, mind Lady Ferrit's advice and go slow.”  Daniel relaxes and leans back, but still unable to tear his gaze from the strength he sees in her eyes.   Tera blushes at the attention, obviously unsure how to respond, her first instinct is to flee, so she replies “I must go, I am unsure of everything but my devotion to Grannoch, please, I must think for a time.”   “As thee wish, Miss Tera.  I wilst be the gentleman and bid thee good night” He bows to her and watches as she gathers herself and half runs into the night still clutching the mixed flowers he has given her.  

Returning to the present, Daniel notes the presence of Rain, Kyle and Ferrit some few feet from his location.  “Mayhap they heareth mine recital.” Daniel thinks to himself and nods smiling.  He goes out to meet them.

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Freas, Febra 27, 1407

Melancholy hast settled into mine bones of late, but there be a few patches of light.  First be the birth of Anirillan Rain and Sonya's triplets.  Twas a happy occasion, yet a bittersweet sadness filleth mine heart.  I holdeth baby Elgon in mine arms until both of us slept .  Elgon hath two sisters as well, Serissa and Eloana.   Lady Sa'kura fell ill that day but thanks to the blessings of the All Seeing as administered by Sister Serissa, she recovered.

*smiles to himself* Another bright spot be Miss Tera.  Her faith be as strong as the stone she favors.  Remembering manners, I hath enjoyed her company a few times in searching for topaz and once with Miss Jennara into the Battle Fens Cave.  She remains focused on her growing abilities in Grannoch and I feareth I be but a distraction from her faith.  Sooth she has not refused mine fumbling attempts of affection, yet she remaineth cool.  *scratches his head and sighs*.

By way of letter, I hath learned that a rift exists between Toran and Mine Lord Protector.  I requested more details and wilst remain hopeful and patient.  Brother Praylor remains mine brother always.  I grow concerned for the faithful.  If Law be all that we stand for what of mercy?  *shakes his head*  Nay, tis that foul Broegar's doing to be sure. I sense his hand in it.   Patience be the mine for now.   Captain Duvall hath yet to speak on it.  

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Tunar, Apreal 3, 1407

A crumple piece of parchment is shoved on top of the parchment folder, it has been painstakingly smoothed and written up with neat merchant like script.

Rumors flourish amongst us the followers of the Lord Protector.  Mine poor wool head canst not keep up with all of them so mayhap a listing wouldst help:  A change in the alliance between Toranites and ourselves, a reported theft in Velensk temple, the death of the queen reported in some mysterious paper 'the voice' along with strange wagons at night, rumors of magical compulsion, and lastly many of mine brothers and sisters reporteth a summons to Prantz by the Church.  *sighs and shakes his head* This humble warrior knoweth not what to think.  I asketh Mine Brother Praylor for his thoughts fearing rejection and recieveth only affirmation.  He be mine Brother still and for this I be most grateful.  He too spoke of disobediance whenst asked if ordered to disavow mineself - He spoke true heart on it and said he wouldst not follow such an order.   Sister Mylindra feareth for all followers, her gentle heart torn by these foul rumors and speculation. Sister Serissa speaketh openly of rejecting this new dogma, yet accepting the punishment for such disobediance.  Dark day indeed if her words proveth true and she be taken from the faithful.   I hath no words of comfort to offer any of these, only more questions.  

Velensk Temple offers mineself no real answers or solace,  so I travel to Fort Llast and pray therein, Sooth I feareth rejection by the local priests, but was tolerated.   I be comforted some, but mine faith still be in Mine Lord Dragon.  I canst not believe mine whole faith be changed with the stroke of some clerics pen.   More information will hopefully be forthcoming soon.  Brother Reus of Velensk seemeth to try and bring word to us, but they be too few for mine taste.

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*another parchment is added to the stack.
Sunra, Jular 22, 1407

Several months hath passed and this melancholy lingers still as if rooted in the marrow of mine bones even as the days grow longer and the growing season peaks.  Good news lightens it a bit and here be an accounting of some of it.   Frindo Merrick – Pandorn , born almost a month hence to Jenna.  I hath yet see either yet from all accounts mother and son art doing well.    Rain and Sonya's children groweth as daisy's in the meadow, upright and beautiful. I held little Elgon in mine arms for a time the other day.  I saw in his youthful eyes the promise of a brighter future and couldst not help but smile.   Four months old almost.  Lance and Omer, the newest members of the Angels learneth their new trades at a pace,  methinks.  Lance gifted mineself with several cougar bags made my his own hands.    Tis a good thing, truly.  All hands able to work art needed in these times.  

Mine skills as a warrior progress albeit slowly.  Master Kyle noticed mine increased skill and gifted me with a fine suit of iron plate, made by his own hands.  Along with mine shield and sword, I truly be a knight esquired.  Lord Protector if such be thy will and such ceremony canst be held soon, I wouldst like very much to be a full Knight of the Wyrm.  

Mayhap there be a bit of light in mine heart after all.  Recently as I sat in contemplation near Haven Castle, insight be granted unto me in the form of a thought.  That thought be that whilst Broegar's machinations hath moved the Church to emphasize law o're goodness, by no means doth he control the substance of our faith.  So the true problem be one of perception, naught else.  By continuing our true and faithful followings of what the Lord Protector stands for, we , his followers in Mistone, couldst turn the the tide of perception against Broegar by our example.   A happy thought that, yet, mayhap something more concrete may be called for.  I wilst continue to pray on it and seek the All Seeing's will.


So, despite mine dark and somewhat dour mood, the height of summer bringeth mostly glad tidings.

//made 12th during Rain's CDQ for Arcane Archer.    Int point, toughness feat (12 hps) and greater improved power attack. I was looking for greater improved critical in longsword (was told by a close friend who's a gm for Gen con that it should be there), but didn't see it as an option.  Lore,  discipline, and healing ate up my meager skill points (3 per level – sucks being a wool head).   Skills in armor crafting: 4th, weapon crafting: still 3rd  , Tinkering, Smelting : 8, wood crafting :5   Some troubling news from the Church, yet with thought I think I've gotten a handle on it and a good way to approach it.  

[cbnicholson]

Daniel looks to the growing pile of letters and writings and groans.  He carefully straightens them up and organizes them before adding another.  

Freas, Oclar 13, 1407

Summer hast flown by and autumns colors blanket the ground and trees.  Twould appear to mine untrained eye that this perpetual cloudiness be a bit less.  Perchance it be but mine foolish wish for it to be so.  Of late, very little news.  Miss Jennara did task mineself with finding a new seed.  Twas made more clear in Hurm at the behest of a bard from some castle, I remembereth not.  What striketh mine mind  most be all the adventurers that turneth out to listen.  Twould seem that the seed I be tasked to find, be one of four hidden at Firesteep.  The mass of all that was there split into two parties.  One – tasked with retrieval of the seeds and the other with their protection.  I stood undecided for some time afore I noted Drogo gathering to his own druids and Brisbane.  I sought guidance from Miss Jennara and be told that restoring the forest be the same as restoring balance.  I replied that I wouldst aid the druids and swore to aid Drogo in any way I could.  

Our trip to Firesteep be most eventful.  Waylaid by madmen, I fell but didst not sup at the Soul Mother's table.  Master Quantum, reviveth mineself after Drogo, the one I sworeth to protect, carried me to the coast.  Firesteep proveth the most difficult and ardous place I hath yet to visit.  Tis the home of the temple to mine Lord Protector's ancient enemy and for good reason.  Whilst a barren landscape of ash, lava, and fire, there be still life there.  Wondrous fruits and mushroom grow therein and I gathered some  for the Angels crafting.  Most treacherous  be the climbing in such a place.  Narrow crevasses, great heights and falls.  All requireth nimbleness and agility that canst not be had in heavy armors.  Mine poor battered plate spendeth most time in mine pack and I be forced to scuttle about as a crab outside its shell.  Twas a terrifying experience to one used to such protections.  In the end, twas Master Ozymandias who foundeth the third seed or at least one whom he kneweth.  As for the fourth seed, twas taken by a mighty Balor whom offered to ..negotiate with our parties.  The Balor flew off afore he couldst be attacked by the more militant of our numbers.   We madeth our way off the molten isle without further trouble in the form of battle.  Rumors of differing purposes between the druids and mine own church however..  //more to follow

Other events between mineself and Miss Melanna. *sighs, then continues writing*  In a recent foray to the mines for iron twould seem she be driven to proveth that the ogres of Haven art a peaceful group.  I holdeth it true that she hath met a single ogre who be so, but to say to that all of the brutes be worthy of redemption - tis a thought that bedevils mine mind.  Sooth, mine experience hath always been that those whom dwell in th e mines be of a violent mind and nature.  Suffice to say, always the ogres therein striveth the to 'break my bones' or 'smash me flat'.  Never hath any offered tea and polite conversation.  Still, in the interests of keeping peace between us, I listened to her story and gaveth her some credence.  I also apologized for mine own blood lust in those caverns.  Its shameth me to admit, but I sought the life of two of the brutes for their kin's foul ambush.  That be not justice but vengeance and truly hath no place in the heart of one whom wouldst follow the Lord Protector.  

[cbnicholson]

Freas, Jenra 27, 1408

Daniel paces back and forth in Cole Pandorn's small room.  Angry blotches of red irritated skin have appeared on his belly, underarms and neck and show signs of spreading.  A small pile of aloe leaves bear witness to desperate attempts at a cure.  While soothing, they seem to have done nothing to abate its spread.  Daniel seems almost oblivious to his current condition; however, as he paces back and forth in the small room.  His once carefully tended golden plate armor sits in a corner with a thick coating of soot smeared all over it from the fireplace - a mark of his grief and anguish that goes beyond any physical malady.  The tower shield bearing the symbol of the Lord Protector lies heavily scratched yet still recognizable in another.  The soot coating and scratches were placed there by his own bleeding hands earlier that day after Daniel returned from Velensk.  As he paces, he mutters of betrayals and laments at ever becoming a knight.  His eyes bear the marks of frequent rubbing and crying, but he has passed the point of tears and have the look of one whose very heart has been ripped from his chest.  

As night passes to day and to night again, small plates of food remain uneaten in front of the door, the pacing continues, thump. thump. thump. pause. thump. thump. thump. pause. The sounds of his pacing march out the minutes to hours then to days.  After three days a thud and a snore is heard from the room.

//rp to find out what happened in Velensk after Daniel emergences from quarantine sometime later this week.  His armor is black with soot now, but still recognizable as his.  The shield as stated is still visible Rofirein but is heavy scratched and chipped.  He will initially be very gaunt and sickly looking when he emergences.  The most notable feature will be the absence of all mirth from his eyes.

[cbnicholson]

Daniel awakes from a long sleep and immediately starts scratching the angry boils on his arms.  "Egads!" he exclaims as he catches sight of himself in a small portion of his shield. "I looketh an absolute fright" and he does.  An angry festering rash now covers almost all his body and the absence of food and little water has left his lips chapped and bleeding.  "I hath seen ghouls that looked better"  Daniel mutters grinning into his reflection, cracking his lower lip causing a drop of blood to fall and stain his tunic. Hearing noises from outside the house, he gathers unsteady legs and makes his way to the front door.  Jako and Kyle are in discussion about a missing Rain. "Rain be here?  I thought he be untainted by this malady." Daniel asks the other two.  Kyle replies that Rain was there, but has left again.  "But wilst he not spread this sickness to others?" Daniel asks. Kyle nods slowly, yet seems unsure of himself.  Daniel notes the absence of boils on Kyle. "Sir, thou art healed?  How canst this be?".  Kyle slowly smiles and explains that a cure had been found and that he and Ferrit were cured by Plenarius, but that the great druid has left again to help others.  Daniel feels hope returning to his being once again.  His stomache suddenly growls fiercely, reminding him he has not eaten in many days.  Spying a caserol near the door, he siezes a spoon and eats nearly all of it up.  As he finishes he notes a the presense of a green clad figure in the yard, several feet out, who appears to be placing items on the grass.  Daniel looks at Kyle and they both make thier way out the front door.  Its Drogo leaving berries and nuts and honey.  "Omealw Wmeve, anirilln aey, but I canst not eat another bite"  Daniel waits for Drogo to move away a bit, before he advances and scoops up several of the offerings.  Despite his full stomache he take some of the raspberries and stuffs them into his mouth, more to comfort his friend than out of any real hunger.  "My thanks for this, Drogo, thou art a brave and true friend."  Color slowly returns to Daniel's face as the food settles in his belly.  "Ahh, I feeleth much better" Daniel says attempting to smile as a wave of dizziness nearly makes him swoon. Daniel fakes a yawn and grabs the doorframe to steady himself.  "I be a little tired yet, pray excuse me."  He makes his back to Cole's room falling two times in the going bursting several boils on his arms and thighs.  A fever suddenly rises in his face, turning it a bright red and the strongest wave of dizziness descends on his mind.  Daniel flops to the cot, eyes open staring up as his breathing comes to an almost complete stop with a final tortured whisper  "mine lord prot.."

[cbnicholson]

Plunging down deeper and deeper into a soothing darkness, yet tinged with golden light, Daniel comes to a stop in his descent and marvels at how he feels. No angry boils and blisters cover his arms, his head is clear and his thinking remarkably straight for one that is nearly dead. He looks about it the dim gloom and sees not far off another figure, lying prone.  As he wills his feet forward the image ruses towards him.  As it get closer he makes out the shape of..Sister, lying silent, unmoving.  Daniel closes his eyes unwilling to believe such a thing would come to pass and hears a woman's voice. "Oh my!" and "Daniel!" comes through.  Vague sensations of movement and more of the that gentle voice, sometimes his mother, sometimes another, always commanding him to drink, chew, and swallow.  A slow burning starts to creep up his skin and in his delerium he sees blisters popping on his bare arms and legs.  The burning turns to an insistant need to itch and as his hands instinctively reach for those places - another force, a pair of hands smaller than his own, stop him with inhuman strength. "No, don't do that - I'm trying to bandage these boils."  a command in that mother's voice is heard.  The food and drink do their work and drowsiness starts to set in.  Sleep claims his mind for a time as he feels a presence lift him up with surprising ease...

Daniel awakes to a nearby humming, a sort of sing song with no particular rhymn or reason to it other than propel the singer, a bright eyed half elf, into even more motion.  His mind, can't quite make it out, she appears to be waving a wand of some sort at of all things - chests.  As his vision clears further he recognizes Ferrit.  "Milady, how long?  how?" the questions draw no response, so preoccupied she seems in her straightening.  Looking down, Daniel sees that he naked but for a strip of bandage covering his private area.  He blushes in the knowing that Ferrit must have been the one to clean him up and put him here in her own son's cot.  Daniel makes a hasty grab for his robes, placed neatly on a chair next to him.  His movements draw Ferrit's attention where his words did not.  "You stay right there and don't move!" she orders grinning at him.  Dan's grab is successful and he covers his nakedness despite her order.  "Twould seem I owe thee my life once again, Lady Ferrit" he says gravely,"that be if Master Kyle does not kill mineself for endangering thou once again with this sickness." he finishes with a frown.  "Shhh" she replies walking to the cot's side.  She pulls out several packages of foodstuffs and a canteen of water.  "Eat, drink, you haven't had much in over a week." She regards him cooly and she makes him take several bites of delicious roast and bread.  "slowly, or else you'll.." the words barely escape before Daniel feels a rumbling in his stomache.  Moments later , he wipes his lips and ruefully looks at the mess he's made.  Ferrit sighs and rolls up the rug, placing it a corner.  "Here try these" she offers him some small biscuits and they stay down.  A Dizzyness overtakes him and he sleeps again..

"Ferrit!!" Kyle's bellows echo from the front of the house.  I can make out faint scuffling and an occasion cursing in Elvish from Rain.  There's a brief silence then a thud.  Rain curses again in elvish.  "Kyle?" he says and Kyle groans.  "I'm sorry, Kyle.  Here hold still" the sounds of a bandage being applied comes from the front of the house.  Daniel tries to stand and weakness shoots up his spine, causing him to fall.  Summoning his will he staggers up and into the main hallway.  There he sees Ferrit, carefully barring the front door.  He can hear Rain and Kyle both pleading to be let in.  First one then the other as they argue about the plague and whether one or the other should enter.  Daniel settles the matter by slowly walking to the door, pulling his key and locking the door.  As he twists the key it catches and breaks off.  "Blast it all" he mutters then looks at the handle.  "138" is imprinted on the piece he still holds. "A bit of luck , that" Daniel says to himself examining his handiwork.  He reached two fingers gently down and grasps the bit still sticking out.  A firm yet gently tug and the key falls out of the hole.  Daniel swoons from the effort of concentration and staggers back a few steps.  More footfalls are heard outside.

"Praylor!" Kyle somewhat muffled cry is heard through the door.  "You're back?  ...the cure?" Footsteps are heard coming towards the door and Daniel steps back, his mind reels with dizziness and all he remembers is a pair of slim arms breaking his fall before a gently thump onto the carpet.  Some moments later a the cool lip of a canteen is pressed to his lips and he swallows as the fluid enters his mouth. "yes, drink it all Daniel." Ferrits voice tells him and he does.  As the fluid settles into his stomach the dizziness recedes.  The light seems brighter in the main hall and as Daniel looks up he sees the familiar face of his brother, Praylor Falcus, smiling at him- the holy nimbus of Toran shining about him.  "I be delivered by thy hand, Brother?  This be the cure?" Daniel asks.  Praylor, Kyle, and Ferrit nod.  Daniel looks to the ceiling and mouthes a silent prayer of thanks to the Lord Protector and to..Toran.


//felt like writing .*shrugs*

[cbnicholson]

*Daniel sighs as he cracked open a slightly musty set of parchments, dipping quill to ink, he begins writing with a shaky hand*

Threas, Mai 12, 1408

Twould seem mine plate hath another portion of woe.  Upon leaving Krandor for the first time in weeks, I sought out Sister Mylindra and found her in much the same condition as mineself.  It angered me to see her lying upon bare stones with naught be a cloak and few blankets for a bed.  I pressed what trues I had on my person into her hands and bade her to buy a bed as soon as she would be able.  I then sat next to her and we spoke for hours. It seems that she was left alone after contracting the plague as well and had nearly succumbed to its power before Draden and Praylor found her and administered the cure.  Once again , twould seem I owe the agents of Toran more than a mere thanks.  With great sadness, I learneth of another trajedy that hast befallen those I know -  Sa'kura, wife of Barion, fell and didst not return. Mine body weakened but mine spirit strong for friends, I attended to her wake for a time and offered what solace I could to Barion.  Mine tears flow to often of late.  Some good tidings, peace be made with another that day.  Sister Serissa and I reached an agreement of sorts.  I wilst submit to the summons for violating Edict 33 and she wilst be mine counsel in defense.  May the Lord Protector see justice done and mine honor restored in  full.

[cbnicholson]

((In a small park near Haven Castle, Daniel pens his latest entry))

Freas, Seplar 20, 1408


   Tis with bittersweetness that I must report dining with the soul mother for the sixth time.  It be on a recent trip to Dregar's Forests of Mists with Sister Mylindra, Brother Draden, Lady Tyrian, Anrillan Rain, and Lady Tegan.  All went well in the cave therein until in our parting, we met Seteece and Voon.  After giving our hellos and farewells, they departed ahead of us to the forest, to seek out more adventure in less hunted parts. Lady Tegan, whom hast to that point been our aid and counsel, thought to join with them and so left our ranks.   Whenst we arrived back to the forest, we rested and prepared to fight our way past the giants.  I noted many numbers of giants, some three times the norm.  Afore good sense couldst shake mine battle lust, I engaged.  Hawk falleth first, quickly followed by the rest of mine companions.  As I slew one of the many giants that surrounded me, I experienced a moment of insight in the giants patterns of movement and fighting style.  Afore my new found revelation couldst be put to good use, a giants club ended mine thoughts and the searing agony of the soul mother's kiss rendeth mine soul.   I awoke some time later in Pranzis under the light of the bindstone.  Rain's weavings of concealment alloweth mineself to reflect at graveside a short time later.  Shaken and in need of reflection, I leaveth Dregar's fields and forests and returned to Hlint.  May the Lord Protector grant wisdom unto me.

   Of the Angels Guild, there be but a few points to address.  Firstly, Lance Merrick hast not returned from his trip home.  I must pray and hope that he wilst return to take up the sword in his Uncle Elgon's place.  Miss Jenna surely misses his company and another , Elohanna, an elven wizardress, newly befriended by the guild, maketh mention of him often.   Rain's instructor, Jilseponie, Miss Jil I calleth her, hast been made a member of the guild as well.  Her many talents and strength be an asset unfathomed by some, but I knoweth the truth of it, and be glad to calleth her friend.   Of mineself and Dalan, we both art granted full guild membership with voting rights as of last meeting.   May the Lord Protector grant peaceful fellowship to all.

   Of Justice and the Lord Protector, there be little to mention other than mine hearing on the charges of edict 33 be scheduled for one month hence.  //  http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/calendar/event-view.asp?eventid=2525&year=2006&month=11 //  Milady Ferrit hast threatened to burn the courthouse down if it goes ill for me.  ((shakes his head and laughs)) I wondereth at such loyalty displayed for one such as I, a humble potentiate to knighthood.  Most, if not all, members of the Angels wish attendance to speaketh on mine behalf.  Verily, I knoweth not if mine authority be such as to grant them their wishes.  I shall have to petition the court for such permission.  May the Lord Protector see justice done.

   MAF, bah mine wood head canst not recall what the letters stand for, but suffice to say MAF be active once more.  Twas a meeting of former members and new in Krandor at the behest of Miss Rhynn that leadeth down this path.  We sought and found an relative of Alvin M'asty.   He spoke of the emisary that cometh from the area south of Himlad.  Suffice to say in our mobish manner, we travelled to and fro from Port Hampshire , only to be lead to a battleground wherein our first two clues lay.  One be a painting of a court in session, the other clue be a name, Imjam, a local baron, south of Himlad.  We art split into two groups due to the size of our following.  Miss Rhynn leadeth mine own group and Jharl another.  I wilst pray that Miss Rhynn hast successfully fought her inner demon of anger.  Her wit and determination must be the beacon that we follow now.   Mine one concern be Yashilla, a Tide of Mist, whom maketh pretense to merely travel with us , but methinks hangs on to learn more of Estibana.  MAF hath small dealings with her in the past, and she be rejected then.  At that time, I asked all to  hear her testimony.   In our most recent meeting, I sought her out with confronting words to seek truth from her.  Such folly be mine to pursue, for I found no truth of purpose in her words.    I scarce canst fathom the mute acceptance she be granted now.  I wilst watch her most carefully henceforth.  May the Lord Protector grant insight and courage to Miss Rhynn in her newfound leadership.

(a small heart is drawn next to the following paragraph in the margin and forcefully x'd out)

   Ah, mine heart.  More painful than any soul mother's feast be the longings of the heart.  Her mystery, wit, and  power enspell mine very soul until I canst not stand to be near her.  Alas, I be but an insect beneath her boot.  Insignificant and unworthy of her attentions and so mine love whilst be a secret one, kept forever hidden and revealed to none, lest mockery and shame follow for such seeking.    I wilst strive to be a better warrior for her sake , so that perchance someday, she wilst see me with new eyes.  

   I believeth love to blossom in someone close to mineself.  Sister Mylindra and Brother Draden hath spent much time alone together and occasionally I wouldst see a glance between them.  If such be the case, I wouldst be the first to celebrate for such love be truly blessed. (smiles)  May the Lord Protector grant wholesome hearts desire to those who do his will.

   Anrillan Rain teacheth me some new words in elvish these last few weeks.  They go mostly as farewells.

veew fa – goodbye

veewleviran – goodnight

and le – no.
May the Lord Protector grant his blessings to the bringers of knowledge.


((pausing to reflect, Daniel kneels in the roses and offers the following prayer))

Vigilance be mine shield, protect me from a squalid past.  Knowledge be mine weapon in which I will carve an path to an enlightened future.   Mine Lord Protector, hear thy servant, show thy true majesty in  granting mine pleas.  They be not for mineself, but for those that struggle to do thy will.   Grant wisdom unto me to do thy will, peaceful fellowship to the members of mine guild,  justice in the church, courage and insight in leadership for Miss Rhynn,  love for thy faithful, and thy blessings to all who pass on their knowledge.

((Daniel finishes his prayer by carefully transcribing the Knights code into his journal))

By the Insight of your wisdom we seek the best ways to observe the law.
By the Strength of your love as a shield we protect the innocent.
By the Might of your will we drive back those who seek to overthrow justice
By the Light of your soul we bring light into the darkness, law and order to chaos.
Our Duty to serve in fairness and integrity.
Our duty to serve through good judgement and generosity.
Our duty to serve through faith and true Justice
Our Duty to serve as champions of law and order against injustice and evil
Our steadfastness, our hearts and our souls are with you Great Dragon.
Into the light of your love for the people of this world we step, to follow the path you set by your Will.
To bring Law, impartial judgement and order to the world.


//lots going on lately.  The mysterious lady in Daniel's life..she knows via tells.  Otherwise, the knight's code is here for reference as well as an act of devotion on Daniel's part.  If you wish to attend the hearing scheduled and are someone known to Daniel, send Mixafix a message.