Daniel's letters to father and mother

[cbnicholson]

//this is little more than a pared down dialogue between Ferrit and Daniel outside the guild hall in Hlint.  I had just returned with Emie from the High Forest with a small load of oak.  I had wished to dialogue this out as the following entry will be, but I do not have the time.  As it is, it contains some good background information on Daniel, Benjamin , and Ferrit.  I will trust to providence that it's in the spirit of the server to post such an entry.  Enjoy.

Emie Meadows: Daniel I will wait inside

Daniel Poetr: Milady Ferrit, tis a good thing I ran into you.  *nods to Emie*

Daniel Poetr: I made these the other day and thought .. well, I know thy need for arrows.

Ferrit Pandorn: *smiles* It's always good to see you, Daniel

Ferrit Pandorn: Oh?  Arrows!  Oh, goodie!

Daniel Poetr: *smiles back* aye.

Daniel Poetr: and more potions?  where shall I keep them all?

Daniel Poetr: *chuckles*

Ferrit Pandorn: I hope you are using them to stay alive!

Daniel Poetr: aye, but I just fell gathering oak.. no harm done, Miss Emie helped me recover and the soul mother.. she did not await me this time.

Ferrit Pandorn: I don't trust that Jennara.  She'll lead you into death just to prove a point.

Clarissa: *waves*

Ferrit Pandorn: Hi there.

Daniel Poetr: What? *seems taken aback*

Ferrit Pandorn: She's a fanatic, and I fear her.

Daniel Poetr: How so? *looks confused*  of all the Knights , I trust her most, Milady.

Ferrit Pandorn: Oh, I'm sure her honor is not to be questioned.  But her judgement in when to fight and when to retire...

Daniel Poetr: *looks interested in what her opinion is and listens* hmm?

Daniel Poetr: So far all we have done is speak at length of what constitutes our faith.

Ferrit Pandorn: I just think she would rush headlong into any situation where she feels she has the right of it.

Ferrit Pandorn: Good, I'm very relieved to hear that.

Daniel Poetr: no mad rushes to battle or retreat from such.

Ferrit Pandorn: I will worry a little less, then

Daniel Poetr: *grins* although my blade languishes in its scabbard, she has given me much to think upon.

Ferrit Pandorn: I see

Daniel Poetr: and I now understand wherefore I was made squire and not a full knight.

Ferrit Pandorn: I am much relieved

Ferrit Pandorn: All of us have been very worried about you.

Daniel Poetr: for you see, I believe that love be the way, but knoweth not the proper ends as Miss Jennara explains.  Why the worry, milady?

Daniel Poetr: mine sorrow has left me and I.. *sighs*

Ferrit Pandorn: We don't want to lose you, Daniel.  You are very dear to all of us.

Daniel Poetr: *looks intently at her and nods* mayhap so, but I feel as if..bah..

Ferrit Pandorn: As if?

Daniel Poetr: *clenches his jaw* as if I am near useless anymore.

Ferrit Pandorn: How could you possibly think that?!

Ferrit Pandorn: I depend on you to be in that front line keeping the monsters away from me.

Ferrit Pandorn: Kyle cannot do that alone, and Jako...well, Jako is still learning

Daniel Poetr: *sighs* and Master Kyle cannot?  *looks at her sadly for a moment* I have had this feeling for some time, milady, and I..

Ferrit Pandorn: No, he cannot.  You are the reason he has seen the soul mother so little.  I would have both him and you alive.

Daniel Poetr: I don't know what to feel anymore.  I feel as if I have gained everything and nothing at the same time.

Daniel Poetr as Emie steps through the door of the craft hall: thy pardon Miss Emie.. Here *hands her some oak branches

Emie Meadows: You keep what you need

Emie Meadows: Thanks for your help

Daniel Poetr: my thanks to you Miss.

Emie Meadows: Take care and stay safe

Daniel Poetr: aye thou as well.

Ferrit Pandorn: How can you feel you have gained nothing?  Is it because you have not found a wife?

Ferrit Pandorn: You must keep trying.  Will you leave the training of the next generation to Benjamin?

Daniel Poetr: There will never be children of the Poetr name Milady.  Mine brother may spawn an entire village of bastards but he will never claim any of them.

Ferrit Pandorn: Patience, Daniel

Daniel Poetr: and I.. have not the heart left to love another.

Ferrit Pandorn: Love comes when it will

Ferrit Pandorn: One of the advantages of being a man is that even very old men can have children.

Daniel Poetr: aye, but even if another finds me even as an old man. What then?

Daniel Poetr: tis not simply a matter of sharing, milady.  Whenst I love , I love completely, and mine affections art rejected by the one I would give myself to. *hangs his head*

Daniel Poetr: nay, they will be no more Poetrs.

Ferrit Pandorn: Then that person will love you as no other, and will have your children.  If, gods forbid, something should happen to you, the guild as your family would help raise your children

Ferrit Pandorn: Don't give up so easily, Daniel

Ferrit Pandorn: Love is not easy to find and keep in this tumultuous world, but that doesn't mean it is not worth seeking

Daniel Poetr: Mayhap I could adopt one of the younglings from Miss Jennara's orphanages. I know not.

Ferrit Pandorn: Look at Quantum and Serissa.  I would never have thought of either of them as the marrying kind, much less to each other...

Daniel Poetr: *seems lost in thought, but listening to her words, he doesn't seem to agree by his body language*

Ferrit Pandorn: Yes, adopt a child to love.  You have more than enough love to go around.

Ferrit Pandorn: I am confident you would not slight him if you should have children of your own body.

Daniel Poetr: *his face contorts in a flash of pain* and leave such when I die.. Nay, tis better the child be left to its playmates then suffer the loss of one who would love them again..

Daniel Poetr: I do have one request milady.

Ferrit Pandorn: You could follow Barion's example and pay a family for the child's upbringing, visiting often

Ferrit Pandorn: What is that, Daniel?

Daniel Poetr: Do not allow Benjamin to enter the guild, his heart is ..not right and he will bring only pain to the guild family.

Daniel Poetr: I do not know what happened to him during mine absence, but I am powerless to fix it.

Ferrit Pandorn: There is no question of that, while you live.  Die, and in our grief, we might seek the lesser Poetr.

Ferrit Pandorn: Perhaps he will change in time.  I have.

Ferrit Pandorn: I was in prison, charged with robbery and murder when the Dragon brought me here, Daniel

Daniel Poetr: I know the place he sleeps, tis close to mine Sister Mylindra's room.  It angers and gives me hope that he would dwell so close to her.

Daniel Poetr: *looks shocked* thou?  I can not believe such.  nay never!

Ferrit Pandorn: It's true

Ferrit Pandorn: Kyle is still my conscience.  That JennaJade would be long dead but for him

Ferrit Pandorn: I had no family, no "upbringing"

Daniel Poetr: You , who nursed me from deaths door?  a murderer? *furrows his brow mightily as if trying to see if the sun is dark*

Ferrit Pandorn: I earned my keep in a robbers' gang by doing whatever needed to be done

Daniel Poetr: *he stops frowning and tries to imagine such a life* *int check-10*

Ferrit Pandorn: I was small and good with locks, so I could get into a fine house and let the others in

Ferrit Pandorn: *smiles, remembering* I was a great pickpocket

Daniel Poetr: I see, a thief or thief's pawn then..*his eyes hold no judgment towards her* you did what you had to..I understand.

Ferrit Pandorn: I did whatever I needed to do to survive, Daniel, and it was not "nice"

Daniel Poetr: and you think that Benjamin may be able..to fight the shadows in himself?

Ferrit Pandorn: The night the Dragon called, we had raided a merchant's home and had been surprised by the guard.

Ferrit Pandorn: A guard was killed as we tried to get away, but we were caught anyway

Daniel Poetr: *nods, encouraging her to continue her tale*

Ferrit Pandorn: Fight them himself?  Maybe not

Ferrit Pandorn: I did not begin to change until Kyle took an interest in me and began teaching and protecting me

Ferrit Pandorn: Love can work astounding changes, Daniel

Ferrit Pandorn: Even for one who had no idea what love is

Daniel Poetr: I see.  *his eyes are guarded* I shall cling to some small hope for him then.

Ferrit Pandorn: My hope for Benjamin is that love will somehow reach him

Daniel Poetr: but pray continue, you were in prison?  What happened next?

Ferrit Pandorn: I don't know him well, but I sense that he feels completely unloved, and unworthy of being loved

Ferrit Pandorn: They threw us into a cell until morning, meaning to haul us before a judge.

Daniel Poetr: *smiles* there was a time, when we were very close him and I.

Daniel Poetr: *listens* sorry.

Ferrit Pandorn: I curled up in a corner and went to sleep--no use thinking about the future.  There wasn't going to be one.

Ferrit Pandorn: I awoke at the feet of the Dragon.

Ferrit Pandorn: I'm sure that the rest of my fellows are long dead.

Daniel Poetr: *nods*

Daniel Poetr: so the dragon's call pulled you from prison milady?

Ferrit Pandorn: Yes, it did

Daniel Poetr: and you never faced the judge for your part in the crimes committed?

Ferrit Pandorn: No, I didn't

Ferrit Pandorn: Nor will I, for there was no excuse for them.  I would be sentenced harshly.

Daniel Poetr: *a mighty battle seems to be taking place in his head, finally he smiles* we should attempt to clear thy name, milady.

Ferrit Pandorn: No way

Ferrit Pandorn: I have no name to clear

Daniel Poetr: How so?

Ferrit Pandorn: Ferrit is not my real name--in fact, I don't even know my real name

Daniel Poetr: Thou art Ferrit Pandorn, no? *regards her for  a moment* *wis check-4*

Daniel Poetr: *shrugs* as you say.

Ferrit Pandorn: I just know that I was not related to anyone in the gang, and that someone else must have cared for me as an infant and toddler.

Daniel Poetr: Lord Protector forgive me, but I could never condemn you for your crimes, nor shall I speak of this to anyone.

Ferrit Pandorn: Ferrit is the name I gained for my size and stealth

Daniel Poetr: *nods*

Ferrit Pandorn: Thank you, Daniel.  I trust you with my life in this.

Daniel Poetr: but surely allowances must be made for those children who fall under the sway of such things.  Tis not right to condemn them for the actions of those that led them astray.  *looks at her and smiles* Mine life for you or Master Kyle, you know this.

Ferrit Pandorn: Such children grow up to be robbers, highwaymen and worse.  I was a woman grown when the Dragon rescued me.

Daniel Poetr: Mayhap the dragon's calling and Master Kyle be the blessings you needed and fate provided.

Ferrit Pandorn: Yes, indeed I do think so

Daniel Poetr: Then I shall not dwell on it.  My thanks for thy story and candor Milady.  Know that I think now that if any can help mine brother, it may be you.

Ferrit Pandorn: *smiles* Thank you, Daniel; I will do whatever I can.

Daniel Poetr: but remember the callousness of thy earlier training, it dwells in his heart, twisted and full of shadows.. He truly cares for naught but his own selfish needs and wants.

Ferrit Pandorn: I understand that well

Daniel Poetr: even unto the pain of a beating he mocked me and my faith, for such has become so foreign to him that he cannot see love, much less feel it.

Ferrit Pandorn: Poor man!

Daniel Poetr: and so I released him and healed his hurts, he ran ..laughing and mocking me the whole way. *sighs*

Ferrit Pandorn: You are too close to the original hurt, Daniel

Daniel Poetr: He does have a weakness Milady.  His true love be magic of the arcane. He had some small talent in it when he was a child.

Ferrit Pandorn: I see.  And was that strongly discouraged?

Daniel Poetr: aye, by mine eldest brother, Stephans drinking and squandering of the family business.

Ferrit Pandorn: Hmm, I begin to wonder how it is that you turned out so well?

Daniel Poetr: *smirks* quite literally he drank the family wealth and well disposed of it much the same way.

Ferrit Pandorn: Then who gave you the values and courtesy you hold so dear?

Daniel Poetr: *shrugs* my father and his duty and the family man at arms, Jack, a retired soldier of Mistone.

Ferrit Pandorn: But they failed with two...

Daniel Poetr: aye, mayhap.

Ferrit Pandorn: I begin to understand Benjamin a little better

Daniel Poetr: Stephen, last I visited, would have nothing to do with any of us.  He covets his bottles of Bock.

Daniel Poetr: more than any familial relation.

Daniel Poetr: Benjamin seeks to fullfill his lusts in Leilon.. look for him there.

Daniel Poetr: Now with thy leave, I must go to mine prayers Milady.

Ferrit Pandorn: Fare you well, Daniel

Daniel Poetr: Farewell Milady Ferrit.  *bows

[cbnicholson]

Daniel sighs and addresses the closed door, hearing her ragged sobs coming from behind it, “I cannot lie to you in this, but  ...if you should ask for marriage I would.. agree.” He pushes on the door and finds it locked, “Melanna?” he says questioningly as he jiggles the handle loudly.  “Please open the door,” his voice sounding hurt and frustrated.  Suddenly, the lock clicks open and then the door is bursts open, as Melanna, in full battle dress with flaming great sword on her shoulder dashes forth and pushes past a surprised Daniel. “Hold,' he cries, but she continues out the front door.  He follows as quickly as he can in his distress, but in her anger she out paces him.  

Running now to keep up with her, he yells to her retreating form.” Melanna!”

She pauses momentarily, “What?” sounding grumpier than her usual.

“I did not lie to you.” he says simply referring to her inquiries as to marriage and his feelings towards her.  

Her voice softens as she replies, almost out of earshot, but sounds sadder for it “I know, I wouldn't expect you too.”  She lengthens her stride suddenly and she quickly outdistances him heading into the wild hilly regions south of Llast.  

His last glimpse as he attempts to follow is her entering the valley of the Storan's Crypt.   “Egads, NO!” he cries as he enters the valley, hastily calling upon the protections of helmet, belt, and amulets to shield and ward. He watches in horror as she enters the Crypt unwarded and vulnerable to the undead within. “Melanna!!” He screams hoarsely, guessing her intent now and wishing feverishly that he could take the truth of his words back.  Keeping the presence of mind to realize his danger, but not caring for his own life, he follows her inside and down the hall after offering a prayer for protection to his Lord Protector.  

As he enters the crypt just moments after her, he hears the familiar wail of the soul mother and feels the malice and evil that pervades the place as clearly as the sweat the springs to his own brow.  His head hangs for he knows by that wail that he is too late, but a new resolve fills his limbs with purpose.  “They will not feast on her, these of Storan, not while I still draw breath.”  Daniel rushes the first skeletal warrior he sees and delivers a mighty overhand blow, nearly breaking the magical bindings of its bones in one blow.  The electrical enchantment of his sword finishes the task as it sparks outward and the warrior crumples into a heap.  The snarling visage of a Bodak turns in the gloom towards him and he sees what it was standing over.. Melanna's body.  
Ignoring the closing skeletons, Daniel springs forward, desperation giving his limbs extra strength.  His first blow lands squarely across the monster's torso scoring a deep cut and the back blow nearly severs its right arm.  Seemingly unfazed by his best attack routine, the Bodak regards him and the fell power of death sweeps outward.   Daniel’s limbs temporarily freeze as his heart skips a bit under that gaze, but with a snarl, he shakes it off and renews his attack routine, scoring another mighty blow, finally severing the monsters right arm.  The Bodak recoils from this latest attack, stepping back a few steps.  Daniel makes a grab for Melanna's booted leg and turns to run, knowing himself outmatched by such a creature, much less it and the horde of its fellows now rushing the doorway, as he does so the Bodak's gaze falls upon him once more.  Shuddering under the magical assault, Daniel staggers and drags Melanna clear of the crypt.  He stops and gently lays her body out on the ground, noting the frost marks of undead touch upon her arms and legs.  He turns and faces the doorway, knowing his death is certain if anything emerges after him, but remembers that if any undead were to escape the confines of the crypt it would be a black mark on his honor.  

Moments pass and his feeling of apprehension lessens considerably as no undead emerge.  Sighing, he sheathes his sword, shoulders his shield, and wraps her body in his spare cloak, taking the time to smooth her red locks and close her eyes, still wide with the shock of her final death.  The look of such upon her face, causes his stomach to convulse and he turns quickly to vomit forcibly upon the flagstones of the crypt. He gathers her now shrouded form and walks out of the valley.


As he emergences from the valley, Brother Lyons and Kuuk await at the road.  Wearily, Daniel hails them,” Brothers!” as he puts down the body of Melanna.  The grief still fresh and the faces at once sympathetic and curious, Daniel sobs as he removes his helm. “She's dead!”  

“Who is this?” Brother Lyons asks.

“Melanna Jin'Daern,” is the emotional reply as fresh tears flow in a mix of guilt and sadness.

“Squire Daniel?  How did she fall?” Knight Lyons commands of him.  

Remembering his duty, he reports grimly “the last time.. to the bodaks.. I found her there.. I took her body..and fled.”  

Lyons simply replies with a “Hmmm” as he turns to inquire of Kuuk. “Can you help her friend, Kuuk?”

Daniel interjects, “Tis no use.. her soul has fled the final time. I heard the wail”

Kuuk starts a bit at that and shakes his sadly, “I'm sorry, no.”

“Then we must pray to the Lord Protector to guide and protect her,” is Lyons calm reply as he kneels beside her body.

Looking vaguely uncomfortable Brother Kuuk softly speaks his mind “I wish I could do something....”  

Daniel's plaintive wail is much more forward as the past moments finally come to focus in his mind.  He looks skyward and screams the question “Why!” Realizing his shameful act of doubting his lord's will, he quiets and kisses her forehead, joining his voice to theirs in heartfelt pleas to the Lord Protector. “Lord Protector, please look after the soul of Miss Melanna Jin'Daern,”

Lyons prays to which Kuuk adds “May the All Seeing light your path.  

Daniel's own prayer sounds suddenly inadequate to his ears but he utters it anyway through tears “Her blood and mine art one, Lord Protector, pray take her unto yourself.  Let her soul not wander aimlessly in the soul mother’s realm.”

Lyons continues with “We trust your wisdom.  Your will be done. “ He pulls his ceremonial Knight's Claw from his pack and invokes its magic, calling forth the blessing of the Lord protector “May the blessing Rofirein placed upon this sword, the Knight's Claw, bless her and her brother now and forever.”  He places the sword back into his pack and turns to Daniel, “Squire Daniel, will you be able to find your way safely to the temple in Velensk?”

“Aye, She is mine sister by the old ways, brother... I shall care for her,” is Daniel's reply as he gathers her up once more, his eyes bright.

Lyon's begins to pull on his armor and turns to Kuuk, “We have the Lord Protector's will to do inside Storan's.”

Kuuk gives Daniel a last look before acknowledging Lyons order,” I'm so sorry for her loss.   Rofirein will protect her on her journey.  Safe journeys friend.”  

“Aye, Justice will be hers tonight; you have my word on that.” Lyons declares.  

Daniel nods grimly and starts walking. “My thanks, Brothers.” he mutters as he begins his journey north.

**walks to Leilon, carrying her body

Daniel enters Leilon his mind filled with last moments with the woman in his arms, his heart in turmoil.  As he approaches the inn, He spies Eghaas coming through the door.  

Eghaas notes the shrouded body and a flash of red hair as well as Daniel's face ravaged by grief. “who is that?”  “Melanna, she fell in Storans.”

Daniel continues walking now towards the docks and spies Miss Hanna, a look of pure shock and horror marring her elfish features.  Sighing, Daniel gently places the body on the ground and removes the portion of cape that covers the face.  

A sharp keening cry erupts from Hanna, “Oh God, Noooo!”

Daniel pauses in his movements to regard her quietly knowing not what manner of reaction he expects from this slight, yet wise Elvin lady.  

Eghaas kneels next to him and straightens her hair.  “Why?” he asks looking at Daniel.

Guilt causes fresh tears to fall to Melanna's breastplate. “It was my fault, I told her the truth and she..could not accept it”  He turns to regard Miss Hanna as she sobs, her head bowed.  Daniel shuffles uncomfortably but knows he must ask this woman, this self proclaimed sister of Melanna's, her thoughts as to his intents. “I thought to bring her to Velensk.. so that mine Lord Protector could take her soul unto him, what do you think , Miss Hanna? Be that wise?”

Eghaas Treebringer, “what could she not accept?”

Daniel takes up Melanna's hand, showing thorn marks recently healed on both and says simply “ That I could not give mine heart to her completely, friend, But that I would marry her if she asked of it.” With his free hand, he smoothes her hair again.

Eghaas half stutters uncharacteristic of his usual directness and logic, “It is....not...” as if trying to come to some conclusion.

With a soft curse directly solely at his own tormented heart, Daniel says simply, “In the end, she dies as all do… alone, for I followed to slow.”

Questioning now, Eghaas asks, “Followed too slow? What do you mean?”

Daniel makes no direct reply, but instead tries to assuage his guilt by clutching Melanna’s still form as hot tears cool quickly on her breastplate, “Forgive me, Melanna.” After a few moments, Daniel remembers himself and makes reply, “We sat together for a time at her home…and talked.  She wore this beautiful blue dress. But I could not lie to her of what be in mine heart” Even his grief, the image of a white hair and blue eyes comes unbidden to his mind.  With a sigh, he dismisses the image.  

As if trying to put Daniel’s words and the form prostrate on the ground together, Eghaas utters her name, “Melanna...”

Eghaas begins to pray, “May Aeridin guide your path Melanna in the Great Cycle. May you rest in peace.”

Looking to the near mute grief of Miss Hanna and hearing not a reply to his inquiry, Daniel hardens his resolve to do what he feels is right and states loudly, “I must take her to Velensk.”

Eghaas, so full of questions, asks, “Was she of the faith?”

Not entirely certain how to respond, Daniel begins to wrap Melanna in his cloak again hoping some inspiration will strike him to answer Eghaas’ question.  His only thought is that if the greatest gift one can give to another be the gift of self, then Melanna deserves this gift, he replies, “Her blood and mine co mingled, aye I will do this.” Quickly, he stands and almost sways with exhaustion.  His body’s natural fortitude asserts itself and he steadies.

As he stands, Elohanna puts her hand on his arms and pleads, “Let me come with you?”

Daniel searches her face for anger and finds only grief.   He nods, “She should have all those that cared for her with her at this time.”

Eghaas is quick to add, “Would you like me to accompany you El?” To which Elohanna simply nods.


As the trio approaches the docks, several are already there.  Among them are Clarissa, Aeryn, and Krysthalien.  Snow falls softly, but the wind is biting and cold from the north.  The three are discussing some business as Daniel walks past, bearing his burden, his head low.

Krysthalien asks Clarissa a question before noting the presence of the three newcomers, “We wantin them mush-rooms eh clarissa? fer th' polishin oils?” His question goes unanswered as the spell singer, Aeryn and Clarissa take note of the mood of the other group.

Krysthalien, still not noticing and intent on a reply from Clarissa utters, “eh?”

A bit more observation, Clarissa, takes in the scene, noting red hair and shape of Daniel’s burden she asks “Daniel, What’s happened?”

Daniel seems not hear the words, but stops and regards them with red eyes.  

Elohanna finds her voice and cries out in her high Elvin voice, “She's gone!

To which Clarissa replies, still not sure of what has occurred, “Who's gone?”

Mantra like and quietly, barely heard above the wind Daniel answers, “Melanna, she has fallen for the last time. I am taking her to Velensk.”  He walks toward the captain and sets her body down to converse with him.  He pauses, and then addresses the captain holding a bag of true.  Behind him the others continue their questions. “This woman must be kept whole and we must sail direct to Velensk, Good Captain, here be the true for such a voyage.”  Daniel’s whole demeanor demands nothing less than a yes and the Captain takes the true and starts yelling orders to his crew.  Daniel turns to those gathered on the dock, “We will morn our sister in Velensk.  Any who wish to join us?”  


Clarissa replies,”Oh no.”

Krysthalien now grasping the situation looks to Daniel with concern as he shivers in the cold air.  He also spies Lex’or approaching the dock and his face saddens.  Aeryn shakes his head, obviously never having met Melanna, but sympathetic to her friends loss.

Elohanna follows Daniel and kneels down next to Melanna crying, “My sister.” Is all that is heard.
 
To which Clarissa responds from the dock, “Your sister?”

Her question goes unanswered as Lex'or walks directly to Elohanna and speaks, “Hanna? What happened?”
 
Eghaas answers simply, “Melanna, she...” as Lex’or joins Elohanna on the deck of the ship, kneeling beside her.

“Oh Hanna, I’m so sorry for you.” Lex’or whispers to her.

Noting the sudden increase in activity of the ship’s crew, Elohanna nods and says,” We must go... I can't keep Daniel waiting. I am sorry.” Lex’or feeling unwelcome hangs back.
 

Hanna, Eghaas, and Daniel watch as the crew gently takes Melanna below and places her upon the cut ice originally bound for Point Harbor, but now commissioned for Velensk.  The others stay on the dock waving their farewells.

Krysthalien steps forward before the gangplank can drawn and hands Hanna a handkerchief, ”Irama, selala.  Hanna accepts it with a thank you and wipes some tears away.

Stepping forward Clarissa invokes the All Watching, “Toran guide her soul to a better place” She shouts across the water as a tear slides down her face.

Daniel Poetr offers his hand to Miss Hanna, “Come.”  Hanna takes his hand trembling as they walk to the railing.

Krysthalien continues addressing Hanna from the dock in the elfish tongue as they sail out of sight, “E lairilcc tymila ane sa cemw oem aeym oilccal laelaanam.  Sa anireyviranla illw tymilaamla ve ameanir aey illa amacc.”

After an uneventful journey to Velensk, Daniel takes up her heavily shrouded body and makes his way to the Temple, stopping to thank the good captain for his service.  Eghaas and Hanna follow quietly.  He pauses at the entrance and sets her down upon the grass.  Kneeling next to her, he opens his heart to the Lord Protector in prayer, “Vigilance be my shield, protect me from a squalid past, knowledge be my weapon, In which I will carve a path to an enlightened future.  Is this thy will, mine Lord?  Do you accept this woman as thy own?  Grant unto me the wisdom to do thy will.” He listens with his mind and heart for a time and receives no reply as the others join him.  Eghaas looks at him and the still body of Melanna with sorrow.

Elohanna kneels beside Melanna gently stroking her hair as she to pray to Aeridin.  Daniel turns to her, for the first time seeming uncertain, “What say you Miss Hanna, shall I bring her into the temple?”
 
Elohanna, looking up from her prayers to Aeridin, “Please Daniel of all the Gods who would grace her... Rofirein would. She was a protector. “
 
His face openly concerned, Daniel states, “I receive no guidance in mine prayers, but aye I will finish what I have intended.” He gathers Melanna into his arms and staggers as comes to his full height.  Eyes fixed in front of him he enters the temple.  The rest follow respectfully with Miss Hanna kneeling in front of her sister and the altar.

Pleading to a god not her own, Hanna beseeches, “Please see her soul safely. I know I have no right to ask. Please guide her spirit and protect her.”

Daniel lays her at the foot of the Great Dragon, carefully arranging her body with Great Sword clasped in both hands on her breast, “Pray take her as thy own.  Grant unto her thy eternal care, my Lord Dragon, for in life she lived as any who served thee in deed if not name.  Veew Fa, Melanna.”  He waits for a time for the priest to come, as he does so Omer steps through the temple doors.  Omer steps forward and kneels next to Hanna, taking her hand into his.  Hanna tears flow anew as she feels the warmth of his grasp.  Seeing her reaction, Omer pales but remains at her side his eyes showing true loss as much as any there.

With a sigh, Daniel stands and turns to them, “I have done all I can for her. The Rest be up to the Lord Protector.”  Kneeling in supplication before Hanna, Daniel pleads with his eyes to be understood and perhaps forgiven. He half whispers, “I would have loved her as best I could and been her husband for the time we both had left.”

Omer remains quiet lost in his own memories as are the others present, but Elohanna speaks her mind, “He will grant her grace won't he Daniel?” she holds her hand out to him and his heart breaks anew, “Please say he will?”

Daniel looks back at the body then back to her, “I do not know for certain Miss.  As I have said, I have done all I can for her.  Brother Lyons and Kuuk both prayed for her soul as well...”  He swoons having taken virtually nothing in to drink or eat in nearly a week but water.

Elohanna hugs both Omer and Daniel tightly and says,”Freldo...Lillian...They have to know.”

Daniel nods in reply, “Aye, when the priests prepare the body, it will be available for visitation for a time… then let all her friends know.”  He looks into her eyes for anger, hatred at what he sees as his own fault and finds only compassion.  

Elohanna responds to his look and voices her feelings, “I do not blame you Daniel. I could not. We must tell her friends though.”  She finishes with a gentle hug and Daniel feels some of the guilt if not the sorrow leave him.

Daniel pauses before expressing his gratitude, “Thank you Miss Hanna for that.  I pray she be at peace now. Aye, we will make her death known to her friends.  I will remain here for the time being to ensure her burial.”  He rises and makes his way to the holy font, to cleanse and prepares himself for more prayer.

Elohanna watches him walk over, “I should go...”

Daniel turns and nods again,” Part of mine duty as blood brother, Miss.  Farewell.”
 
Elohanna walks back to Omer and Eghaas.

[cbnicholson]

The doom that befalls us all eventually has befallen mineself.  Whilst patrolling Sauderia I fell to the giants therein and suffered the soul mother's touch for the ninth time.  Let this entry be my will for my final encounter with her.  I have asked Tegan to adminster my wishes and have placed a copy of this entry in her hands.  *grins a bit* although I have placed almost all of the below items with thier new owners already.

First, the shield given to me by the Keeper will be passed to Miss Clarissa, paladin of Toran, may its protection serve her well.

Second, Diamond Ring of Bull's strength to be given to Dalan Stoneaxe by way of Jako whom I have entrusted it to for now.

Third, the Heart of the Healer, to be given to the one who holds my heart now and forever, Tegan.

Fourth, All True in my bank account and possession are to be forwarded to Miss Jennara to use as she sees fit for any relief efforts.

I wished to be buried with the Knight's Claw and armor, so that I may be ready to serve upon my arrival to the Lord Protector's Domain.

Anrilln Aey, Faceelaw for watching over my affairs in my absence.


Thy Daniel.

[cbnicholson]

Satari, Mar 28, 1413  
 
  It would seem some small joys remain in my world despite the nearness of death.  At the last venture into the Haven Mines with Milady Ferrit, Friend Jako, Friend Dalan, and Anrillan Rain, I felt a sharpening of mine mind and the  ten years of tutelege under Rain in Elvish seemed to coalesce in my mind to a better understanding of the elven tongue and heart.  Now I must seek out the loremasters and prove my knowledge of the fey tongue.  
  I recently spoke at length with Miss Jennara as well and she expressed her confidence in my ability to fullfill the role of a Full Knight of the Wyrm.  Strangely enough, her faith in my abilities makes me content enough to not pursue the matter further.  All of us are but learners of lore and wisdom for our time here in any event - If I must remain a squire until the end of my days - so be it. With these words, I rededicate my life and its purpose to helping those in need.    
 
  //Daniel makes 16th and finally takes his required Int point for 12 Int.

[cbnicholson]

//exploring the past II  We have succeeded at freeing ourselves from the rift our own stupidity created but at what cost?  We are now divided and owing a debt of honor to the Lady of Doom, Mist herself and for what - shards of glass!    Mine Lord Protector, grant me your insight, for I feel the common will of the fellowship breaking but lack good words to sway the doubters other than to rely on chaotic nature of Mist herself to swing the other way. *places the quill to his lips and seems to reach a decision*  For my part, I will stand with those that wish to continue, for once started down, some paths cannot be left.  *smiles wryly* It may come to pass that "My life for Alindor" will be by oath as well, by choice or no.

[cbnicholson]

Satari, Mai 14, 1416

Three years have past since I last set foot in Hempstead or Vale.  I leave the village well guarded by my young apprentice , Eric, may the Lord Protector keep him and his charges safe.  I return to combat the growing rumors of evil within the church and the lands that surround.  May mine Lord Protector grant me his strength of claw and scale in these trying times.  I still view the guild as family, but have severed all monetary links, including the disposal of mine keys, but one.  Hers I will keep next to my heart as always.  

I was most glad to meet with allies and friends upon my return.  Clarissa has done exceedingly well and I am deeply proud of her continued dedication and compassion.  Dalan, my dwarven brother, I met with in Vehl this very day and sought to aid the Good Captain of that town.  We succeeded in our task with a minimal loss of life.

Claw and Scale unto mine final death.
Daniel Poetr, Knight Errant of the Wyrm.

[cbnicholson]

*Daniel sits by the small pond near Hempstead, parchment and quill laid before him as he pens his last farewell to Tariana*

Daniel's Farewell

Tariana, the Great Dragon's Chosen
A fair lass unto death you shall be.
The dark moth's flame, drawn by thy grace
Mine brother's wife all to see

Sooth, loved by both, dear Sister
but by only one possessed
The light to mine brothers darkness he calls you
and so thy patience stressed

Thou bore Benjamin a son, the gift of life for life
so that the Poetr name wilst not fade with age
Cruel mother of souls cut thy strand at last
and let fly to our Lord's sheltering wings.

*Daniel calls a hawk to him and addresses it to his brother* "Fates be kind, Dear Lord Protector, fates be kind.", he whispers as the hawk takes flight.

[cbnicholson]

Mulnari, Apreal 2, 1432

Glad tidings come unto me Great Dragon in the form of Lady Treana.  I had not thought a simple favor between friends couldst grow to a love I feel now, but such is so.  We are engaged to be wed, her and I, yet I looked inward as always to be sure of my own intents.  Do I seek solace in my advancing years?  Assuradely, Lady Treana has given me home, hearth, affection, and her companionship, but with some condition.  Her traditions, she calleth them the old ways, sooth, I be no stranger to such things, but these practices I must follow test my mettle.  No longer may I offer those female friends close to me an embrace of warmth, but instead but politely shake hands lest I violate my vow of engagement.  

To the matter of the ceremony itself, Master Kyle and M'lady Ferrit revealed to me the trickery involved to test the heart.  Both Treana and I must pick another of the fair sex to kiss the other come the union day.  Mine, A'Tulsaiir na'Biirisa, has been chosen.  Ferrit forbid Master Kyle from the role, but gave her blessing for Cole, thier son to do so.  Young Cole has accepted this task, but I wonder if I or he know the full extent of the test?  Even as I pen word to paper, I ponder Treana's choice and worry the end of mine quill at it.  For what if she chooses Faceelaw?  To feel nothing at such a kiss wouldst mean I be truely dead, methinks yet to evidence any emotions meaneth a breaking of the union.  

To this end, I spend much time in Addison's tomb, praying openly to mine Lord Protector for his strength and wisdom.  For if any know my heart it be he.

Daniel Poetr,
Knight of the Wyrm.

[cbnicholson]

Daniel gently places the key in a kitchen chest and leaves as quietly as his plate armor will allow.  As he hears the door lock behind him he says quietly, "Veewfa, faceelaw.  My thanks for thy trust, but it is time to let such things go."  Walking the short distance back to Treana's house, Dan sets to work on a hand crafted iron shield, painstakingly painting Rofirein's crest and chiseling runes into its surface."Into the light of your love for the people of this world.."

[cbnicholson]

Danael approaches Benjamin in the Hempstead craft hall, "Brother, I would have words with you in regards to my beloved." He says angrily.

Benjamin hearing the clank of his brothers armor, turns slowly and his hands slip to the hilts of his blades unconciously, "Yeah, what about it?  She's alright ain't she?  I mean, she's a little more scatterbrained then she was before, but I really can't tell the difference myself." He replies with a smirk.

Upon hearing this expected reply, Dan explodes into action, pushing forward and gripping the front of Benjamin's tunic with both hands, effectively pinning him against the tinkers furnance.  The hot surface raidiates heat which washes over them making them both instantly sweat. "Thou left her there with those animals brother!  Further, thou did not tell me of her plight!"

Benjamin's cool facade turns to one of bitterness, "What shoulda I have done, Dan?" His words dripping with sarcasm.  "I ain't no hero, on thing I could do was slink outa there and save my own arse!" Benjamin replies, his left hand quickly drawing a dagger and pressing it point first into Danael's armpit, "Now let me go, before I do something we both regret and I'll try ta explain my thinkin some."

Danael regards him for a few moments, feeling the prick of the dagger in his armpit, "Very well," he backs off a step letting his brother escape the furnace's heat.  "Explain thyself, but no lies!"

Benjamin takes a deep breath and resheathes the dagger, "What woulda ya done, had I told ya what happened ta Treana, big brother?  Rushed off and got yerself killed that's what, ain't it?!"  He asks rhetorically.

Danael seems taken aback, pondering Benjamin's words, then nods.  "Aye, I would have, as you say, rushed to her aid.  Would you not have done the same for thy Lee?"

"Sure, I woulda, but I woulda been smart about it, brother.  Ya know Storold was plannin a rescue attempt, doncha?  Iffn I hadn't heard bout a woman bein found near North Point and investigated it myself..I woulda told ya myself when he was ready ta go.  Till then, wasn't a dang thing either of us coulda done other then get ourselves killed..Ya ken see that can't ya?" Benjamin searches his brothers face for acceptance of this fact.  "I do care about ya and maybe even Treana..a little..not a lot, but I ain't stupid either.  Them darkies woulda killed ya outright."  He shrugs and waits for Danael to digest what he's said.

Nodding in agreement now, Danael's features turn from restrained anger to grief, "Aye, I se thy reasoning be sound enough.  Forgive my outburst, I beg."  Danael offers a hand which is ignored by a scowling Benjamin.  "Treana wilst be some time before she be whole again. I fear the possibility of her bearing our child.  The Dark ones used her, brother, in the foulest of ways." He says his voice trembling.  "She can barely stand mine touch, and it pains me to see her so."

"Look, I did what I could, Dan.  I know yer a good man, ye'll find a way ta bring her around.  Now iffn yer done with yer righteous anger bit, bugger off..I got work ta do here. "Benjamin turns and goes back to loading the furnace with clay.

Danael sighs and turns to leave, his anger gone now, only grief remaining, "Brother, how canst thou be so cold?" He asks softly before leaving the area, not expecting a reply.

"Because nobody give a rats arse what ya feel, big brother..only what ya ken do fer em."  Benjamin mutters as Dan leaves the craft hall.  "That's jest the way it is."

[cbnicholson]

*Daniel's long legs bear him along the road between Hempstead and Hlint and back again, his face agrin with joy, his thoughts racing*  She be with child, my beloved!  Praise be the Lord Protector for granting mine prayers! *His simple thoughts are revealed in his light step and beaming face as he makes his patrols*

[cbnicholson]

Mine daughter has arrived into this world!  Praise be the Lord Protector!  Treana bore the ordeal with the discipline that rivaled any knight, I be most proud of her. Melanna Min Poetr be perfect in form and sound. Love of Promise, or somesuch as Treana speaks, I must confess her old tongue confuses me at time.  
 Alas, as the weeks have gone by Treana's spirit seems to fade somewhat as her motherly instincts come to fore.   M'lady speaks of retirement and I must confess a certain fondness for the idea myself for I too wish to see these days fullfilled and my own flesh and blood come to fore in health and happiness.  I shall set aside these instruments of war for good I think.

Last entry of Danael Min Poetr, Servant of the Lord Protector,

Sunra, Jular 15, 1436.