The Journal of Sallaron Tempest

[LordCove]

The first several pages of this book are many crumpled, torn and worn sheets of paper, attached to the book by a slight thread.
They detail, some roughly and some descriptively, the exploits and trials of Sallaron Tempest.

"Notes of Sallaron Tempest" -  [url]http://forums.layonara.com/development-journals-discussion/105354-notes-sallaron-tempest.html

Compacted of course, they describe events before Sallaron arrived in Hlint, his unfortunate luck which lead him to be homeless, turning to petty crime and thievery, his being taken in by a small Thieves guild....and his betrayal by them, when he discovered the source of their revenue came from slave trading. It describes his near death at their hands, when he tried to free the slaves, and his dissapearance into the woods there after.

Of particular note are some of his exploits...

His role in the tale of Goblins and Golems....the foul essence contained within magic tubes which turned folk into undead creatures, and his success at translating the scrolls which lead to the restoration of his allies.

His time in solving the Mystery of the Black Pearl....attempting to infiltrate a gang of pirates, although he was barely aware as to the true purpose of the mission, and narrowly escaped with his life.

It details many exploits of the Explorers of Mistone, an organisation he founded many years ago, and most notably, there discovery and attempted exploration of a Secret, hidden dungeon on Rilara. He has penned a note here, swearing he will return to bring down the keeper of the dungeon.

A long piece of literature describes his attendance in the Battle of Pranzis....holding off the invading Blood forces during the final battle which shook the world.....and the emergence of Broegar as the new, "temporary" lord of Pranzis.

It also describes repeatedly his attempts to locate Illegal slave smuggling, and to free slaves captured. Most sadly mentioned, was his failure to free the slaves of the Black River Pirates. His arrival was too late, and the Pirates had slain all there slaves, leaving Sallaron enraged and guilt-ridden for some time.

Most recently, and penned in an angry form, tells of " A little Town called Haven"....which it seems he spent much time their, attempting to persuade a council not to steal the emotions of their villages so that all could be "safe" and "well". The event turned badly it seems, as it describes storming the Mayors mansion, killing his guards, and practically torturing the Mayor. His words seem to hold a woman known as AnnaLee partly to blame for the killing, but does not explain how.

Furthur described are small events, but containing the names of those he has befriended and trusts in the years past....and shows the mans love for nature, and crafting of fine goods....but ever present in his words, is the wish to redeem himself in someone's eyes....perhaps his own.

[LordCove]

I met a lady the other day in the Wild Surge Inn....and I curse myself for not remembering her name...seems I'd drank a little too much. But I recall she told me a tale which affected me more than I thought. Seems she and her family were captured by slavers, and she was able to escape, and now seeks to find her brother....who she believes may still be alive and in slavery. That is the purpose of this journal of mine...to remind myself of what is important. I will keep my eye out for her, and render assistance as I can...as I somehow feel, responsible for this. If I were to find Gillen and his Slave traders were responsible....I would never forgive myself.

My line of Bows and Crossbows will hopefully be released soon....allowing a much stronger draw of the bow than normal. I save now for two things.....An advanced crafting kit....allowing me to make much more quality goods.....and a home. How I long for a home of my own.

A few recents excursions I have accompanied the Druid Kyoro. A strange and interesting woman....her beauty and power is matched only by her fury at the destruction of nature and its animals. She is well attoned to the balance....and yet....I believe there is much she must learn.....as I must.....of just how deeply the balance goes.
I will keep my eyes out for Rhizome again....at what point must we strive to maintain the balance, when that which we mean to save.....seems so determined to destroy us instead.

[LordCove]

Omer has been very useful lately....the ingredients and resources needed to complete my work are rare and....ridiculous. Grave dirt....of all thing! Having to delve into some of the darkest places on Mistone, combat unspeakable, undead things.....only to grab a handfull of dirt. Seems pointless in some aspects....although I've gathered a few mushrooms and Bodaks teeth people seem to need so badly. And still....there I am....being pushed to the front of the fight.
" Remember, I aint no Frontliner. " I keep saying.....do they listen. No....they hang behind, protected by spells and wards,whilst I fight for my life...and recently enough, I keep failing. Im gonna have to practice some more fighting skills.....if only to keep me alive.

A few excursions to Dregar with Janice has topped me full of Silver ingots....which, through practice, I intend to turn into Silver arrows....which should keep those undead at bay. Had a few close calls, and a nasty run in with a drake which, of course, ended badly....but all in all, the practice is good for me.

[LordCove]

It's time. I've pulled the old poster from the chest and replaced it on the wall, and sent my letters far and wide. My replies came quick....and every one of the old Explorer's have agreed to the return, save Roy. The bird returned, the message delivered, but no reply. Who know's where he's wandered off to this time.
So we are ready....myself, Xandrian, Pyrran, Godim, Buppi and Cymeran. I am convinced that, as us all being older, wiser and stronger, we would fare better ourselves, but have decided to recruit some other's also to be safe. Shamur is certain, the man's skill astonishes me and will certainly help back Xan in the front.

And this time, I delve wiser than before. Whilst showing Kyoro the tower, we had the fortune of bumping into a local wizard, who told us a little of the history. The tale itself seems a little hard to believe....Katia roaming the lands in human form?! Falling in love with a Silver Dragon?! It sounded like a fairy tale, but the more she spoke of the "Children of the Metals" the more it made sense. The dungeon was filled with Golems and Constructs of all kinds, vicious and deadly. But Kyoro's words keep rining in my ears.
" Do you -really- want to go down there? "

Truth be known, I'm not so sure anymore. But something bids me go anyway....like I'm being pulled down there, as though Im "supposed to go"....and it's becoming rather disturbing.

On a lighter note....Ceilith has done well. Seem's some elves out by Saudiria had been keeping an eye on him, and have nominated him leader of their group. Took some convincing to get the the other parties of Elves on our side, but once Ceilith killed a Giant Chieftain with a single shot, they certainly made their minds up quick enough.

* A little scribble here, where it seems he may have wrote more, but decided against it*


Explorers: http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/photos/photo-thumbnails.asp?albumid=499

[LordCove]

* Sallaron sat under the tree in Hlint, a journal and fine quilled pen in hand, whilst the stray cat curled in his lap, purring and twitching softly. Occasionally he would glance to the benches and the road, just to see who was passing, but kept himself focused on his work. Furrow's appeared in his brow often, as he seemed to know what to write, but couldn't find the words*

Iron Hills....a deadly place. Seem's I've been there more in the past few days than I've ever been in my life. First time of course, I was so lost I didn't have a clue where I was, and took me a few days to make it back to Hurm. The second time, was with gracious invite from Honora, Freldo and Galen. They showed me some of the "less trodden" paths in that area, and how to deal with what could be found there. Freldo and his gold lust...ha, makes me laugh.

I headed for Karthy to rejoin Captain Hai San and his pirates for another attempt at freeing some slaves. Seem's however, it was time for the slavers to hit back. They raided Karthy that day, slaughtering many, and it was only through "divine" intervention, so I'm told, that many of us escaped. And to then find our misson was "not" to free slaves, but simply to recover some "relic" from Bricket the Journeyman....well, that topped it all. I did get to meet Kobal Bluntaxe, a fierce bloody warrior. Strange thing is....I thought he was dead.

*He pauses for a long time, lost in thought, and when he begins writing again, it is with a small frown*

Something disturb's me lately. I don't know the whole of what it is....but I feel it, in the air, hidden in the shadows, waiting to jump out when I least expect it. I feel I'm being warned about something, but it's so vague it scares me. I've taken to wandering alone a little, help's me clear my thoughts, the more I explore with people, the more conscious I am of "its" coming. There's only one who banishes the thoughts, her wit and smile seem to push back the chill that comes over me....even though she's as difficult to read as a Draconic book.....*a few lines are scribbled out*

I was disturbed to hear of the death of Janice.....seems strange that such power fades so quickly. There were time's I thought she were invincible.....but seems the soul mother pays particular attention to those with power. I thank my star's I'm not worth her notice.

[LordCove]

*Sallaron hunker's over the bench, quill in hand, candle light dancing around the room, running a shaking hand through his hair as he writes*

So much can happen, it seems, in so short a little time. Kyoro, my feelings for whom have been scribbled from these pages several times. I didn't dare admit to myself....even on paper. By Folian that's pathetic!
She's gone anyway....couldn't stand the barbarianism of city folk. And with her a piece of me.     *more was scribbled out here*

...Beli has returned....seems after many years of servitude the monastery was let him go. Was good to fight along side him again.....seemed like old times. I'll see if I can get him on anymore Explorer ventures.....speaking of which.....

*here an obivious effort is made to write cleanly and precisely*

We did it. With most returned for the second attempt, save Buppi, Roy and Cymeran, we tackled the Well of Eon once more. Was several years had passed since we last set foot there....but we fared well. Pyyrean scouted the way, and a good eye, if only his feet reacted as fast. Shamur and Xandrian were our wall....relentless. Then came Godim, throwing spells left and right....and Sala and Serissa....with healing spells at the ready.
We fought our way past deadly books, leeches, flaming sword's and past the guardian, Eon's rememberance. It fell...and we recovered that which had sealed up in the cursed place...the Scion of Balance.
I have it now...packed away safely till it should be needed. If only Kyoro could have seen this....  *more scribbles*
I know not what it does....but seem's right I have it....like thats what I'd been searching for. Seems even more fate was luck that I got it....it was open for all to take.
I'll keep it safe for now.

Feel bad though....Serissa lost her weapons and sheild....seemed one of the foul thing's we attacked down there was a rust monster. I've offered to arrange an expedition to Firesteep to recover some Adamantium, but seem's she has other ways of retrieving it.

And so....with the Well of Eon's conquered, the Explorer's have turned their eyes to North Dregar, to North Point....where fiercesome Minotaur's plague the town.....and a deep cave is where they call home.

Explorers:  http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/photos/photo-thumbnails.asp?albumid=499
Sallaron's : http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/photos/photo-thumbnails.asp?albumid=472

[LordCove]

And yet again....following those bloody rumour's as I always do....I found myself in Raven's Watch, being recruited to save a Captain of the Guard and recover some boots from an old cave. Something about the whole thing had me spooked to start with, as though I were missing all the fact, but I journeyed with other's and trusted them. Later, a whole bunch of Voraxian Dwarves showed up, seemingly looking for some "recipe" needed to cure the Broken woods, and they assisted us along the way.
There were a lot of familar faces, Pyyrean, Shamur, Beli, and some unknown's, but we fared well, cleansing the cave, recovering what we needed, and beating a hasty exit.
Returning the goods to some woman in the Leilon Arms, we received a whopping 20000 True for our efforts.....which is what raised my suspicions instantly. No sooner had she left, than Rhynn and Lin'da began screaming about Illusionists. Turn's out, the lady who payed the whopping sum was one of the seven sister's, and we had just returned from looting "Selian's lair". What the hells were we thinking?!

Well....I hope the recipe "fixes" Broken woods....the place has been cursed for too long now. And poor Pyyrean....accused of being a thief....again. He didn't even accept any reward because of Lin'das accusations. Although.....I don't think he realised how much we were being payed.

And now....yet again, I'm about to spend my great saving's on new Adamantium chain and a new set of leather armour. Seem's just as a new home is in reach, I must spend more on equipment. I've even decided to buy a horse, save me running across Rilara all the time.

I look forward to the next Explorer's venture. We have become a force to be reckoned with....each of us now reading the other's minds in battle, making our tactic's deadly to the enemy. One day....I see we will all make our way to the Far East.....where only the bravest of souls go....and there explore land's seldom seen by the eyes of man. What a bloody great day that will be.

[LordCove]

*Sallaron collapses into his bed in the inn, exhausted, barely able to drag his journal and the quill pen over to him. Propped up in bed, he begin's jotting in it wearily*

Well, I've been working non-stop for days now.....Cornoil, milk, Sage, flour....even made and sold one of those Mighty bow's of mine for a fine profit. After buying a suit of Addy chainmail....my account was empty....but was well worth it, few hit's even penetrate the mail. But I'm filling it back up.

I spoke with Shamur some days ago.....was interesting. He asked what I had planned for the Explorer's in the future, and so I told him of my plans to try and make us an official guild. He was a lot more interested in the idea than I thought, offering to pay half the price of the house we would use as our Guildhall. I was so relieved....seemed I would be working for years before this dream of mine came true. I've priced the house's in Pranzis....around the Haft Lake district....and need to make only another 20000 True before we go and buy one. Then of course, there is the matter of decorating and lay-out. Thankfully, I'll be able to make most of the furniture myself....which should save us a tidy sum.

Then....to speak to the Explorer's to see who want's in. I already know Shamur, Pyyrean and Cymerran are interested.....but I haven't seen much of Godim lately. I'd like the old mage to be in.....since he's been with the Explorer's since the very beginning....and wouldn't seem right at all for him to not be in. Then, once I have the initial 4 members, just the matter of Officially registering us. Will take a few meeting's before we work out exactly what we stand for and what our main goals would be.....but is certainly an interesting time.

I headed for Karthy for a few days, sneaking around the back alley's to see if a chance would arise to spring free a few slaves....but the Guard's around there now seem to have been doubled. It's likely they know my face now....I've bugged and troubled them enough for that....but don't mean I'm gonna be giving up. I keep my ears open....hoping to hear of some Slaver's den hidden somewhere in Karthy. If I find one....by Folian I'll prepare well and free the lot of them.

And as a last note, I had a fun night at the Freelancer's. Had a bit too much to drink, and after some persuasion from AnnaLee and Pyyrean, ended up telling of the taleof the Explorer's recovering the Scion from Eon's Well. A little while later, a man came in, said to be from the Friend's of Hurm, recruiting grand adventurer's to negotiate a truce with the Dragon Black Plague, so trade routes could be opened. I said nothing, but knew what it meant. Some fat cat merchant in Hurm's obviously planning this, trying to get the Dragon removed so he can rake in the True. Only problem is, some of the have "agreed" to this. Bloody madness....if they fail to kill or negotiate with the thing, Hurm's going to feel the brunt of it....again, and the town will likely not survive.
I've decided to attend this quest, against my better judgement I might add. If it fails.....hundred's, possibly thousand's could die. I have no intention of speaking to or engaging the Dragon....but will take the Scion with me. If it makes one move, utter's one word against Hurm, I'll use Katia's Scion and bring the whole bloody Crypt's down about the cursed thing....myself included if need be.

[LordCove]

*Sallaron sit's himself on the bench before the fire, pulling out his journal and a fine quill pen. He glances about the room with a wry smile and start's scribbling*

It's done. I sit now in my new house in Castle Raxwell, split fairly between me and Shamur. It's much larger than I had thought, thanks to Milly the Estate agent showing us around, me and Shamur were able to view and pick which best suited us, though I still owe him around 30k for it, which I've just about raised already. The place has a huge kitchen, meeting room, living room, storage room, even what seem's to be an area we could convert into our own personal tavern. There were three bedroom's, one each for me and Shamur, and after some persuading, we've given the Third to Pyyran. The place is only partially decorated....but still looks well.
( Note: See Shamur about all the bloody animal head's he's mounted on the wall's)

The Explorer's assembled again for the raid on the Ruin's of Madness.....it started well, as always, we worked well as a team, putting tactics and skill to good use. One particular group felt the fury of the Scion....blasting them to dust before they realised what was happening. But there was something unusual when we faced the cheif....it seemed nigh invincible, and we fought and hacked the damn thing for so long, that re-inforcement's were called and we were assailed again, causing several of us to fall. Making our way out from that point was deadly....though we took the Chief's head. At one point, one of the Shaman's approached us precariously, and I took it upon myself to try to speak in Animal to the thing, perhaps get a clear way out of the Ruins. I should have known better to threaten the thing....it spat at me and cast some spell....the next thing I knew was darkness, and being raised again on the cold stone floor.
From then the way was pretty clear, and battered and bruised, we made our way to North Point, the chief's head in tow.

At this point I brought up the guild.....and we now have some firmly involved. Shamur of course, Pyyran, Cymerran, Sala....although Serissa and Xan are already involved in one. Valaria left before I could speak to her, so I'm determined to catch her and get her in with us.....she's becoming as powerful as she is beautiful. And Godim....like always, arrived late, and vanished after the deed before I could speak to him.

Heroes of Change:
I did a little digging into this Pier Krogel of the Friend's of Hurm. I had my suspicions about him and the true purpose of his idea, but seem's they were misfounded. He has a reputation for making deals and negotations with small trading businesses, primarily Dock Fraternity's and low-funded trade guilds. Seem's strange that he has suddenly leapt from small business ventures to arranging such dangerous and lucrative things such as Dragon negotiating...but other than that there seem's nothing to confirm my suspicions. Still, after the last "incident", I feel sure Selian or some aid of her's will be waiting to snatch the damn Cauldron from us once it's out the Dragon's reach.

And finnaly, I've somehow fallen in with a group of bloody misfits. I don't know why I continued adventuring with them, but it's certainly going to stop. They seem to relish in the whole "blood bath" thing, cutting and desecrating corpses and slaying anything in their path. It sicken me....and I'll be disassociating myself from them.

*Sallaron snap's the book shut and locks it in his chest, then wander's out the house, heading back to work*


Explorer's of Mistone....( and other places )
http://www.layonaraonline.com/forums/photos/photo-thumbnails.asp?albumid=499

[LordCove]

Taking me bloody longer to raise these Guild fee's than I thought....and even when they're paid, I'm gonna have to save again for that cursed Advanced certificate. I swear, seem's all I do lately is work.

Well, I accompanied a fair sized group to the Den of the Black Plague. I've never been so scared in my bloody life. After nominating Ozy and Kobal as our speaker's, we made our way down the moss Crypt's, the Frontliner's hacking their way past thing's I aint even seen in my bloody dreams. Eventually, we came out into a large underground swamp area, and the booming sound of heavy footfall's almost sent me running back there and then.
A Dragon.....as close to me as my front door is now. It lead us to a another cave where it's master sat.....and I remember falling back, practically hiding behind people as it spoke to Ozy and Kobal.
Seemed quite impressed with Ozy, he of the Silver tongue. We made a bid for the safety of Hurm, strange since we had been made aware previously that the Friends of Hurm had no legitimate connections to Hurm at all.....but the Dragon accepted for regular tributes. Then we bidded for the Cauldron, the only reason I went down there anyway. We were denied, the bloody thing admitted it would NEVER give it up. I'm kinda at a loss now, as I think Drogo was too.

A few of the Explorer's went wandering off, found some Limestone Caves ( where we found a Diamond!! ), the Dungeon of Lost Soul's, and the Den of the big creepy crawlie's.....no one fell at all, a feat we were all well proud of. We've decided to make a trip to this Rift, mainly of course since we heard the Diamond's can be found there, and Diamond fever seems to have gripped us since we handed Shamur his fairly won stone.

Well, back to work again for me. True to be made.....as always.

[LordCove]

*Sallaron collapses onto his bed at home, dragging his journal and quill out, jotting quite happily, sipping on one of Godim's Cherry Lambic's by the table*

Well, 75k True is in the bank, ready to be paid to the authorities for the Guild. The thing that clinched it, a final delivery to Rhynn, a bloody huge order of Sage, CornOil, Wheat flour and Hops, two boxe's of each! I swear, my back's gonna ache for weeks after carrying that around. One final thing to do, I now need a mere 35000 True for my advanced certificate.....and then, I'm retiring!
Yes, at long last, I can bloody retire from all this work. I've become self sufficent, got my home, a Guild, and I can make anything I would ever likely need myself. I'm looking forward to spending some time simply lazing around Hlint or the Guildhouse, or wandering off across Dregar sight seeing. I'll never retire from adventuring just yet of course, too much left to see and do.

Found some interesting sight's with the Explorer's last time, we even ventured into Firesteep with several others, and finnally got Shamur some of that Adamantium. God's, the grin on his face whilst he was mining, like he was a kid with a whole, brand new toy. Some of the Explorer's had expressed an interest in trading, though thankfully, I think they were more concerned with crafting for themselve's than opening any kind of a shop, so hopefully we'll be arranging more venture's to get them the thing's we need.

Been spending a lot of time with Val as of late, and I must confess, I'm becoming quite fond of her. She never laughs, never smiles, never makes jokes....at least that she's aware of.....and at first, she seemed too distant. But lately, I've seen a laugh in her eyes, a smile in the way she nod's slightly all the time, and humour in the simple, logical answer's she seems to have for every occasion.

"How did those giant's wander down here?" I'd shout, backing away from the oncoming giants charging toward's us.
" With their leg's. " would come the short, to the point reply. I almost dropped my sword for laughing.

A few of my friend's I think have noticed, but thankfully, they seem to respect me enough not to openly ask me or bring attention to it, knowing fine well I'd be all embarressed. Never was good at that sort of thing. Thank Folian for Good Friends.

Been bumping into Arkolio a lot lately too, the guy seem's to have a girl in every court with that silver tongue of his. Seem's he and Eghass are thinking of opening up some kind of "non-lethal Weapon's shop". Thankfully Eghass never took the time to learn a little Thieve's cant, and Ark managed to explain "exactly" what the shop would be doing.

Explorer's are being dragged off to some Goblin encampment soon. Who know's what to expect when we let our feet go loose....just hope I'm around afterward's to fill another page in this book.

Oh....and Geldar.....I hadn't seen him for year's. Seem's he's been away for a long time and only just returned. Gonna have to drag him off with me for a hunting trip some time.

[LordCove]

*Sallaron sit's on the couch, casting impatient look's at the door and mumbling to himself occasionaly. After becoming a little restless, he pull's out his journal and scribble's in it a little to take his mind of things*

Damn that Pyyran. The last few day's for me have been bloody peace and comfort. And then to come home and find this!

I've paid the True, and retired from work for good. No more dragging good's back and forth across Mistone, no more spending endless hour's in the kitchen's grinding and milling, no more chasing customer's for order's and dropping off deliveries. It's funny, now I've retired, I'm seeing endless post's on the Trade wall's of people looking for what I used to provide....CornOil, flour and such. Surely someone must realise the profit to be made and set up their own business. But....I'm not concerned.
Same day I retired, Val got herself some new Amulet, and we ventured into Sielwood to bless it. Never been to any kind of ceremony like that, and even though I couldn't understand a word that was being said, was certainly peaceful to witness.

Anyway, a few day's of peace and relaxation had passed, till I've come home and found a warning on the walls, asking us to check our lock's and possession's. I did a quick check, and couldn't find anything missing, but before I went to bed, I found a note from Pyyran. Seem's he's allowed some folk's into the Guildhall one night, and as far as the note say's, "thing's went bad". I'm reserving judgement of course, may not have been his fault at all, but still, letting group's of unknown folk's just wander in here.....

*grumbles a bit, pausing in his writing, casting another impatient glance at the door*

Anyway.....coming up.....Toga party. Can't wait for that. Going to get someone to make me a bloody good one.
See Godim and Cym.....I'm wanting these Rod's I got turned into enchantement's of some kind or other. May as well put them to some use.
What else.....oh yes, 6ft of rope......ready for Pyyran coming home.

*chuckles to himself a little, snapping the book shut*

[LordCove]

Something's wrong. I'm growing bored, restless....lounging around the Guildhall all day and doing what are routine trips's to the desert's for silver. Snapped at some folk's the other day for calling out to me....don't know why. Just suddenly felt angry over something. Drinking a bit more than usual too...not that I'm seeing that as a bad thing, but that's maybe's why.

Accompanied a few folk down for Silver, lovely lady Kali, Krys, that Zup guy and another person who never spoke and wore a creepy helmet all the time. We descended into the caves...but, they wer'nt ready for what was down there. Kali fell, and I battled hard to keep the giant's from the rest of them. Afterward's, with no hope of ressurecting Kali, I dragged them out the caves and left them in Saudiria, sick to my stomach.

Thought packing in work would be a breeze, some quiet time for myself.....but it's not working out that way. Keep remembering the early day's, when there was just me and Igrio, roaming about the wood's, aimlessly really. I swear, thinking of those day's....at the time, I thought I had it rough, now, it seem's I had never felt so alive struggling to survive day after day.

Bumped into Gak the Half-Giant a bit back. Of all the people....he saw right through me.
" Youse not's look's well's Sallawon. Your's head's be sick?"
For a blumbering Half-Giant, he's pretty intuitive. Took him down to Berhagen for a little hunting trip, he had a hell of a time chasing after Giant's roaring "Gak smash youse alls!"

I've grown fonder of Val....which, of course, is when the ground fall's out from under your feet. Friend of mine mentioned she spend's much time with a Hardragh guy....probably why she's so distant with me. Second time this has happened, and I'm left standing again. Seem's lately, I feel I'm wasting my time with....almost everything.
Stopped cooking, woodworking, stopped tinkering and Alchemy.....seem's I've stopped altogether.

*with a miserable sigh, Sallaron closes the journal and tosses it onto the bed before curling up into a restless sleep*

[LordCove]

What the hell am I doing! Am I getting worse....or better?

I fessed up to Val....told her how I feel.....more fool me, but I needed to, was making me sick. Or so I thought. She told me she wasn't sure how she felt...no surprise of course, considering how she keeps those emotions of her's pent up. But, I got it off my chest, and for a while....I felt better....
...but then it crept back....that dull, uncaring feeling in my head, where I just want to forget everything and dissapear somewhere.

Bumped into Val and that Hardragh guy....thought it would bother me seeing them together like that, but it didn't.....I've said my piece to her, and that's about all Im going to do....so I bit my tongue and invited the two off to the desert for a little mining. It ended with me storming off, leaving Val and Hardagh. At the time....I blamed it all on his killing spree in the cave's, killing the bat's just to spite me and my almost druidic ways....but now I think back, I was looking for something to lash at.....and he made a perfect target for me. Anyway.....I stormed off and left the two alone.

Returned a few days later with a new group, Ceilith, Rain, Tegan....who kept putting me in charge! Don't she know me at all!....and a lovely little lady called Kinsai....I think we hit it off almost immeditely. Anyway, we all trouped through the desert for awhile, but I returned home to the guild.....

....that's when I found Pyyran's rabble hanging around outside the Guildhall. I kept trying to chase the bugger's, but they weren't listening. I had a sneaky suspicion Pyyran might try and bring them back in, so I waited by the door. Soon as he walked in, I was on him. Told him to bugger off and take his rabble with him, and if Fred turn's up, I'll have some name's to give him. Later I realised this wasn't exactly nice of me....not the type of thing I'd usually do or say at all....but strangely, it made perfect sense to me.

[LordCove]

* The writing here seems barely readable, the hand writing it either very sick or very drunk*

Right......stuff's happened...things....usuall stuffs....

Met's llottsa new peoples....can't remember namess....lots....went places.....didss stuff

Firesteep.....wentt there....oh bloody joyss....Hawklen.....bloddy moron....undertaker....tiried to charge me 10000 Truess for raising me......and Tegans bloody paidis him!! Getting Tegans some food stuff....was nice of er....

Crazy exploring trrippps into desert.....big, huge bloodies giants....someeat to do with....
  * the whole section here appear's to have been scribbled out at a later date, although there is a crude map showing the location of a secret passageway in the Anarouch desert in Dregar, although it makes not mention as to where it leads*

What ewlse.....oh....went places....lottsa peoples again....lotsa names....Abi...Krys....Zup.....Honora......

Oh...Kinai....poors lass....all confusesds and stuffs....work's to hards at cooking.....gave her bit stuuffs....
....Val....went places.....dids stuff....stills likes but.....nothing......

Oh....and Pyyran.....tinks im drinkish to much.....infactss....everyone tinkss Im drinkings too mcuhc.....bloody moronss.....

[LordCove]

*Sallaron sit's on the end of his bed having just awoken, an ale in his hand, watching with a mixed sense of worry and curiosity as his hand shakes uncontrolably trying to take the top off the bottle. Eventually, after much fumbling, he manages to pop the cork and down's much of the ale inside, letting the fine liquid pour down his throat, and breathing a relieved sigh as the bottle emptie's and he tosses it in the corner.

He clamber's to his feet, rubs a hand through his greasy hair, and drag's himself to the desk, slumping into it and glances in the mirror. Dark shadows hang under his eyes, and it seems they have sunken a little more into their sockets. His nose and cheeks are red and puffy, his face a deathly pale. He glares at the reflection a moment, finding the sight of himself uncomfortable, and reaches for another ale, this time taking a few sips.

It's only when he reaches for his journal and quill, that he realises his hand has stopped shaking. He glances back into the mirror, and is startled to find a tear in his reflection's eye, trickling slowly down the reflection's face. With slow, deliberate movements, he move's his hand to his cheek, and realise's its his own....

With a sudden burst on anger, he knock's the ale from the table and throw's the journal to the far end of the room, where it hit's the wall and slides down, dissapearing somewhere behind his bed. But something escaped, and slowly flutter's about the room a little before settling at his feet. Wiping away the tear with a scowl, he reaches down and picks it up.

Several pages, bound by a small thread, had escaped his journal. "The notes of Sallaron Tempest" printed on the front, Sall flicked through the papers briefly, pausing over word's and phrases he could remember writing long ago. How simple those days had been, he thought, and a brief smile came to his face. A gleam appeared in his dull eyes, and an idea swept over him....*

[LordCove]

*Sallaron sat by the end of the bed, staring at the bulging backpack that rested on the stool in front of him. Once again, though he had done so many times, he checked it's contents, nodding to himself contently when he was sure he had everything he needed. He took out a fine quill pen and wrote a few hurried letters, sending notes to and letters to those he thought should know, then went to grab his journal. With a frown, he stared over at the side of the bed where his journal had fallen, hidden underneath. For a moment, it seemed he would drag the bed aside to retrieve it, but with a slight grin, he shrugged and left it there, out of sight and out of mind.
A flood of names and events came to him, which he felt he should really jot down, if only for his own sake. People who had tried to help him, and he had returned the aid with backlashing and hurling insults, shouting at them for interfering. At the time it seemed only right he should say such things, but now....he felt a little guilty about it all.
It was an unusual feeling, locking his chest's and leaving behind the standard things he would carry around. He placed several things in some of the chests for those he knew would find them....one, which he struggled to part with, but knew he couldn't take with him. The other....something he wished for but seemed could never have.
The chest containing his ales and brews caused him a moments pause, and he frowned and glared at it angrily, almost as though battling it. It was all in there, everything from the Layonara Hotel, the WildSurge Inn, and the last of what he had bought from Rhynn....he had stashed and locked it all away. He felt fine about it now, alcohol still ran in his veins from the Toga party, but he knew in the morning....oh how he would long for it, and he practically tore his gaze away and headed out the house.

It was but a short walk to Lorindar carrying the pack with him and he felt the strain, lack of exercise and too much ale showing. When he finnaly approached the docks, out of breath, the Ship's Captain glanced up from his clip board and nodded as he approached, though still keeping count of the numerous bags and boxes currently being loaded aboard the ship.
" Evening Sall......got yer letter. There be a place on board for ya."
Sall nodded slightly, looking up at the fine ship, it's flag billowing in the wind, the sailor's humming and singing tune's as they lugged cargo back and forth. He dropped his pack to the floor and pulled out a small bag of True.
" How much then?" he asked.
" Well, that depends, " the Captain said, glancing at something behind Sallaron with a raised eyebrow. " Forty True fer you, but if yer bringing yer mutt, I want an extra twenty."
Sall frowned and turned around to find a grey wolf stood behind him, looking at him expectantly, it's tail wagging in excitement.
" Igrio? What the hell you doing here?" he muttered
The wolf barked a few times, creeping closer to Sall and nudging his leg. Sall knelt down and scratched it's ears, the animal seeming to love the attention and rolling on it's back to be scratched. A wide grin spread across his face and he turned back to the Captain.
" Fifteen true....the mutt can stay in my quarter's and I'll keep him out your way."
The Captain considered a moment, then shrugged and gestured for them to get on board. Just as he reached the gang-plank, Igrio trotting happily behind him, the Captain called out.
" So Sall.....just so I know....I'll be headed back from Arabel in a few days. If ya wanna book a return trip, might save ya some True."
Sallaron glanced down at Igrio a moment, who seemed to read Sall's thoughts and bound on board, dashing to the prow and leaping on two legs to stare out to sea. Sall looked over to the Captain and shook his head.
" No thanks mate....For now it's to the East.....and it's one Bloody way."

[LordCove]

* Streaks of sun filtered through the dark clouds when Sallaron returned home, stood at his front door. Igrio, seeming equally pleased to be home, barked a few times and dashed back into the wood, Sall watching him go with a smile. Instantly, he went to his room, dragged his bed aside, and recovered his journal from the back of the bed. With a wry smile, he immediately began scribbling in it*

And again, it seems so much can happen, in such a short time. In truth, I didn't expect to be home so early, only been gone a month, but if Folian send's my feet here....guess there's some reason. And there was, a letter from Pyyran, a rather urgent one.....so, I cleared out my little camp outside Arabel and came home on the next boat.

Not a drop of Alcohol has passed my lips since that Toga party....and the first few days without were a nightmare. I never realised it had such a hold on me....and looking back, I'm glad to be rid of it. I feel it stunted me....and have embarressed myself infront of many of my friend. There's much I must make up for.

But of this first....I must make mention. Gillen....the evil little bastard who dealt in slaves and left me for dead all those years ago. I spotted him in Karthy by chance, and me, Shamur, Godim and Val pursued the bugger across the land, till at last he stayed at an Inn near Lannisport. We snuck in, and convinced the Inn keep to give us a room.
I knew what I was doing that night....I sent Shamur to move Gillen's horses away, and left Godim and Val in the room....and crept down the hall, looking for Gillen's room. I was going to kill the sod in his sleep....of that I had no doubt....one strike and it would be done. But seem's someone else had an interest in him...and caught off guard, I was held at knife point and took to the kitchen, where a man named Mint told his story.
Seemed Mint knew Gillen was into slavery, and he wanted the Account books so he could bring Gillen to justice. We made a quick deal, I track Gillen and find the book, the slaves would be freed, and Gillen would be mine to deal with as I wished. Seemed like a good deal, so I agreed and told the other's.
But....I couldn't drag them into this. Gillen had to die....and no way would Val forgive me if she saw it....so....I left them there, Godim and Val, sleeping soundly in the room....and me and Shamur left the inn and waited for Gillen to leave.

We tracked him to his little hideout, listening outside for some time. But eventually, I couldn't take the waiting...knowing the bastard was sat in there drinking ale and laughing. Myself and Shamur stormed the place, burst through the door, and were immediately attacked by the Slavers. We made quick work of them, but Gillen escaped out the door, and just as I was about to give chase....I saw them....the room was full of slaves, looking weary and lost.
I paused....I bloody paused!  Chase Gillen and finish the bugger off.....or free the slaves and see them to safety. It should have been a simple decision to make....but it wasn't. Eventually, angry with myself....I stayed to free the slaves....knowing my chance of vengance was gone.
But something was amiss....the slaves wanted to return to their "Lord"....and when Mint turned up....ransacking the room for his book, it became clear.
They weren't really slaves....they were Serf's who had been illegaly sold into slavery....and would now be returned to another, legitimate form of slavery serving their Lord. I still offered them the chance to be free....but they huddled around Mint like he was their bloody saviour.
And the worst....he wanted me to "escort" them back to their Lord. He wanted me to deliver these slaves back to their owner....and he would show me where Gillen was! Vengance or not....I swore I would never assist a slaver again....and so.....I left....left Mint with his Serf's....and left my last chance to finish Gillen off.

[LordCove]

......anyway, now that the whole business with Gillen is done.....what am I missing?

Oh yes....I'm free of the drink, and have things to make up for. Spent over a month with Igrio, wandering around parts of Belinara. Mainly of course, I kept to the path from Arabel to Fort Mitrix....but on occassion's I was able to bump into other adventurer's and wander that little bit furthur....seeing thing's I never thought I'd see. At first, I was terrified, not thinking I'd be of any use and hanging back with my bow.....but slowly, my confidence built up....the gleam re-appeared in my eye's....and before I knew it, I was charging into battle....albeit cautiously. Funny how....being in such mortal peril....such fear for your life....can suddenly make everything seem so simple.

I haven't seen much of Val since I came back.....and am wondering where she's getten to. Several times I've been tempted to just go wandering by Corax lake and the Forest of Mist's, which is usually where I bump into her....but, I'm trying not to. Looking back, I think I maybe's chased her a little too much....and I'm gonna try pulling back a bit. I've told her how I feel....she know's.....it's blatantly obvious anyway......and I guess all I can do is wait.....see how she feels. But....of course, she's an elf.....I'm just a man......how long can I possibly wait?  I keep remembering back to the Toga party, all I wanted to do was hold her hand or grab her for a quick dance....but....without the " Yes Sallaron.....it's you" confirmation, I feel I'd be pushing her....and that's not what I want to do. So....I'm gonna keep my mouth shut....continue on doing what I do....or what Folian sends me to do.

Anyway....the reason I came back.....Pyyran and his letter. The guys had one too many encounter's with the soul mother, and seems time's getting short for him. The Coup de Grace....the finest Rapier ever made by man......how he's spoke of it in the past, and now, finnaly, he's set events in motion to find and recover it. Well.....if he think's I'd be useful tracking the thing down....so be it. I owe him enough to try at the very least. So.....off I go to Lar.....ready to freeze my butt off again!

[LordCove]

So....met up Pyyran at Lar and he told me and Yardislan the full tale of the Coupe de Grace. I recognised this Yard from somewhere....cant remember where, but remind's me of the time the Festival of Light's got cancelled...so must have been there. Anyway....some dwarf made the Rapier, and we fell into talking to an old man in the Inn who used to have it. The guy was a drunk, and I felt a little uncomfortable, wondering if that's what I had looked like only a few months back. Anyway....we did a little talking, got some information out of him....and that was that.
But, when we left the tavern, Pyyran got a letter, annonymous and all. Gave him some riddle which hurt my head trying to work out, but Yard pieced it together. So....we all headed for the Crypt's at Shoufal ( how exactly the riddle pointed us to there I don't know?!?! ) and....er....well.....began riffling through some of the Coffin's out the back. I felt a little uneasy about it, but Pyyran didn't seem to mind. Some were trapped, and despite me pointing out what such a bad idea it was....he opened them, and out jumped some pretty nasty bugger's. Anyway....he found a Rapier in one.....just not the one he was looking for.
Seemed a bit disheartened, but I smell more to come in the wind. Why would someone send an annonymous letter and drag him down there for no reason. More to come I'll wager.

Also....I'm back to work, albeit part time. Gonna fill a few order's for Rhynn and Tegan, if only to put a few more True back in my account. Seem's I'd spent more than I though on ale's the past few month. Bumped into Kinai too, and she's still dreaming of dancing in Shadow's and having trouble with the men. Funny lass.

And....Val.....bumped into her outside of Hlint. We got to talking a bit, told her I missed her and such. She nodded ( of course! ) and said she wanted to hear all about my adventure's in Belinara.....on our date! Date! That's what I'd asked her month's back...what they call it in Pranzis....a date!! And......she's said Yes!!! Well....of course, round about that time, my mind stopped working and my mouth sealed up. All I could manage to articulate was "When! Bloody hells When!!" to which she replied "soon"
Needless to say, I was in a bloody good mood for the rest of the week! So happy....and so confident....

....that I've arranged an Explorer's expedition to Firesteep! Feel I've been a little "too cautious" as of late, and the trip's across Belinara have certainly taught me a few things. When together in full force, fully organised and prepared, the Explorer's are a bloody force to be reckoned with. I've not dared arrange much too dangerous, for fear of losing friends on the field. But maybe's I'm being soft, not having enough confidence in them....and in me. Well.....let's test it!