The Inner Journey of Krysthalien Dawnstar

[Yllyrryon]

A Letter to Hanna
 
 **A falcon note is delivered to Hanna - it is written in Elven in an artistic flowing cursive**
 
 Hanna, my love -
 
 After our night together at Corax Lake I returned to Quantums house for meditations and prayer. Early the next morn I set forth, bound northward to where ever the four winds would take me.
 
 There I found Hawklen, resting aside the path leading into the Forest of Fog, towards the giants domain. I erred in pausing to speak with him, forgetting that darkness is usually near at hand with that one. Soon the drow Delmar was there. The mere sight of him angered me, and we exchanged harsh words, his remarks further fueling the flames of my anger.
 
 Thankfully, I refrained from taking it further. It was all I could do to hold back. I walked into the woods doing all that I could to restore proper balance within my mind. I took to the shadows and made for Vale, where I knelt in meditation just east of the village at the safe camp site there.
 
 Tobias - that silly elf we met while you, Tyrian, and I were speaking together - he met me and invited me to journey with him. Shortly thereafter a dwarf, Gravas, joined us and my spirits improved as we journeyed northwards, fighting giants and enjoying each others company.
 
 Later our group reached Dalanthar. A small mob was there, various groups of folk arriving from different parts, very chaotic. As ill spirits had returned to me, I did my best to keep quiet about a number of things going on there that did not sit well with me. Regrettably, I voiced my opinion of Kinai in the Fair Tongue, intending only for Tobi to hear this, but another named Wil, a druid whom you perhaps know, heard my utterance and immediately judged me, scolding me on the spot as if I had somehow committed some great wrong, saying something to the effect that how could some one who claimed to be so good could say such a thing.
 
 Wils judgement and words did not sit well with me, other than pointing out to him that he was the one making judgement, I held my tongue.
 
 My remark to Tobias, and not Wil, had been that Kinai cannot open her mouth without detracting from the sum total of the realms wisdom. I do not like her; she is confused to the point of insanity, and her recklessness does nothing but hurts those around her. I consider her a lost soul. After repeatedly trying to gently lead her from the course she has chosen, I have given up on her. Let her reap the harvest of her own error - perhaps she will learn that way.
 
 Part of the mob followed Tobi, Gravas, and I into the ore hills and the mines there. Constant chatter whereas I needed solitude to ponder and right myself. After Tobias fell to a Treant in the Sinister Forest nearby simply because the mob was not working together as unit, I knew that it was best to seek solitude once again.
 
 Many seemed to be troubled about my low spirits as I bid them goodbye.
 
 I write you to assure you that I am better now, having meditated for an entire eve. The stillness and focus has returned to my mind. And after sending this to you, my love, I shall embark on a journey through Dregar, alone - to places where I know I can practice my arts without the help of others.
 
 I am well and look forward to being with you soon. Holding you close; savoring your kisses; when we are together there is such harmony, such warmth, peace, joy and love. Truly I was meant to love you, to give you all that I can and more. Until soon my love, until soon.
 
 Devotedly Yours Forever,
 
 Krys

[Yllyrryon]

While lightly meditating on the sands of the Audiran beaches, Krys received a falcon note from his beloved Hanna.
 
 * A similarly flowing Elven script in the practiced hand of a scribe flows gently down from the grasp of a falcon *
 
 Please take to heart within, That Del'mar would stoop to such levels that would force you to sink to his. Please my love, take comfort that we are one and I am there with you always. I will never leave your side even when we are apart. Let those thoughts guide and comfort you as they do me, even when anger takes hold, when the world's chaos begins to weigh heavy on your heart. Remember Us and remember our love.
 
 I love you dearly Krys with all my Heart. I would do anything to ease your pain, to quiet the anger you feel and I do even understand your misgivings about Kinai. I barely know her myself as we have only met briefly but that she warns you of Daralith, lends more to her credibility. Although I glad you are being so cautious.
 
 The thoughts of your arms around me again, the understanding that resides within your heart. Your compassion and trust of me. You, Krys..are the one I have longed for in my eternity. When I think of our love. When I close my eyes and feel your arms around me. My thoughts, my hopes and my dreams become reality. I find the way to speak to others, the truth of the love between us.
 
 I have spoken with Omer, knowing that I have hurt him deeply, which was not my intention. The truth is though...the truth had to be spoken. I know right now he feels lost and alone, and all I can do is provide comfort I will always be his friend. What was between us though had to change though.
 
 In a moment of our hearts becoming as one. It was meant to happen that I would grow up and let go of the past and even some things I was holding onto. It does not happen all at once, it takes moments of perfect timing, but they do happen. I hope he too realizes this. So clear the path seems, but it just seems that way.
 
 There is an absolute truth though that binds our souls together, and that is I truly love YOU!
 
 Omer told me, if I was not so besodden with you. He would have asked me to marry him. It only took but a moment for me to reply to him. As I admitted to him that for once in my life. I know for an abolute certainty. I am where I am meant to be. I have never felt more sure.
 
 He could have tried to dissuade me, but I think he too realizes just how much I love you with all my heart and soul. You have me completely Krys and I would walk to the edge of this world and back again to face Corath, himself, If I had to, to prove that to you. But I know you would never ask such a thing.
 
 For An Eternity We Stand Together As One
 Hanna
 
 
 With a loving smile and look of fond reminiscence, Krys re-read the note several times, pondering his beloveds wisdom, and feeling very blessed to have found such a kind, beautiful soul with whom to share his love and his life. Looking out to the seas with a serene smile, he contemplated for several hours, focusing his mind solely upon thoughts of his beloved, how better to love her, serve her, and celebrate their lives together.
 
 Change continues unabated - objects of perception cascading over consciousness.
 
 For the past hours Krys had resisted this natural flow, holding Elohanna in the forefront of his consciousness during his meditations. Slowly rising from where he had been kneeling on the sands of the beach, the young warrior then prepared himself for whatever his journey along the Path had in store for him. Though other thoughts, feelings, and perceptions would come and go, Krys always held Hanna closely in both his mind and heart.
 
 Quietly he opened himself to the moment, and letting the four winds take him where they may, he headed south into the desert.
 
 Many days later, Krys paused for a few moments reflection, sitting on the benches overlooking Lor Harbor. Watching boats of all sizes come and go, Krys began to write in his journal in his native tongue, a soothingly fresh breeze coming in off the waters; gulls calling out to each other overhead.
 
 Anger. Hatred. DelMar defeated me the moment I let these take hold within my consciousness. I was most fortunate that only words were exchanged, and nothing more. Pride was involved as well afterwards, likely even before I erred, as I thought I had these forces of the mind well under control; yet in my arrogance I stumbled in my walk along the Path.
 
 Every battle is won or lost long before the first clash of arms.
 
 
 Truly, I find much solace in that Hanna is with me in mind, heart, and spirit even though we may be oceans apart in form at times. I love her more than words could ever say.
 Yet I shall never forget Eliharas lesson that the warrior treading the Path of Return stands alone. A lesson I learned deeply during the past months before I came together with Hanna. I found within my own heart a deeply abiding love for myself, an ability to accept all that found imperfect or undesirable about myself or my lifes experience - some how I learned how to truly love myself.
 
 
 With respect to Hanna, I love her deeply, I trust her and our love. She inspires me and I feel as she is always with me. By learning to stand alone I learned how to love myself. And in learning how to truly love myself, I learned how to truly love another.
 
 
 I believe that to some extent, each and every sentient being perceives that which we call the future with varied degrees of uncertainty. Yet the future exists only the imagination, all that we have is a series of momentary perceptions as the mind rapidly skips from one thing it perceives to another. Even the past is nonexistent - as any event in the past is open to as many interpretations as there are perspectives of it.
 
 
 I have digressed thus, merely to record my impressions for future reflection. The more I learn of myself and the nature of being, the more I am truly humbled.
 
 Vulnerability. I have been deeply hurt in the past by what I conceived at the time to be love. Wounds have healed into scars - I dont resist or deny any of these, but rather do my best to open myself entirely to each moments experience, that I may learn and grow. I have found that with Hanna, this sense of vulnerability, of fragility I have is nothing that I should resist or condemn myself about experiencing. It is simply there, and I have perceived some of its causes. When I keep my self utterly focused in each passing moment it vanishes altogether. And even though I am far from mastering the virtue of moment-to-moment focus of consciousness, I grow in trust of and love for Hanna simply by allowing this sense of vulnerability exist on its own terms. And as that trust and love grows, the vulnerability fades and old scars begin to vanish.
 
 Life experience is soothing, gentle, kind, and nourishing if only we allow it to be.
 
 
 Krys quietly reads over this contemplations; he carefully copies these writings, intending to send the copy by falcon to his beloved Hanna. Each and every passing moment he deeply senses how more and more they are becoming One. Each and every thought and sentiment he intends to share with her.
 
 Krys carefully stashes his writing implements in his pack and makes for the city gates.

[Yllyrryon]

"Like a million little doorways
All the choices we made
All the stages we passed through
All the roles we played

For so many different directions
Our separate paths might have turned
With every door that we opened
Every bridge that we burned

Somehow we find each other
Through all that masquerade
Somehow we found each other
Somehow we have stayed
In a state of grace..."
 Excerpt from Ghost of a Chance, Rush from album, Roll the Bones, 1991
 
 Krys had received his beloved Hanna

[Yllyrryon]

Like a million little doorways
 All the choices we made
 All the stages we passed through
 All the roles we played
 
 For so many different directions
 Our separate paths might have turned
 With every door that we opened
 Every bridge that we burned
 
 Somehow we find each other
 Through all that masquerade
 Somehow we found each other
 Somehow we have stayed
 In a state of grace
 
 - Excerpt from Ghost of a Chance, by Rush from album, Roll the Bones, 1991
 
 Krys had received his beloved Hannas most recent note while meditating in the Garden of the Minaret of Symphony, in the Alindorian woods - taking a brief respite from gathering work he had been doing nearby. Though oceans apart from his angel, he feels as if she is sitting closely beside him, snuggling in his arms. With a loving smile and with extra care he opens the note dropped into his lap by the falcon, the warmth of their love filling his being, and a deeply abiding sense of place and purpose filling his heart. His mindfulness gently embraces the thoughts, sentiments, and feelings Hanna has conveyed in the note as he carefully reads it and rereads it several times over for the rest of the evening in deep contemplation.
 
 My Beloved, Krys
 
 I wish to explain to you, to truly express to you, the way I felt before we embraced each other. I know you will appreciate the weight in which this weighs on my heart.
 
 I was resigned to live my life alone, I had convinced myself that I was truly meant to be my friends companions. I wanted to be to them their best friend. I wanted to be trusted as someone they could turn to when they needed someone and no one else would bother to listen. I was settled and content to be this one true friend. I was ready to bury within me all my own feelings and become to them what they needed most.
 
 No one has been able to get past the barrier I had placed, to see so clearly into my own heart, to understand my feelings, to feel my soul and touch it so intimately as you have by your own perceptions, devotions, intentions and generosity.
 
 I do not question your motivations, I do not fear you. I love you so much, I accept you completely and unconditionally as you are. Our differences are our strengths we bring to each other and bind us for eternity as one. I can feel you as no other, as I walk my path with you, wherever I go. When my feet touch the snow instead of flinching, I am blanketed so warmly the snow is fleeting.
 
 I can not express in words, what your compassion and devotion mean to me, and when I said I wish to have your children. I do! A happy home full of little ones to share our love with, to nurture, and to guide with the love that we share. I can already see them reflected in the joyous tears in your eyes as you hold them so tenderly and with complete adoration.
 
 You are so right my beloved, the future does exist within our imagination. The steps we take are only our perceptions of what will be. If this is true though, our steps together are just one way in an infinite number of ways we could have chosen to live, but that we chose to live them with each other is truly amazing and a gift from on high. You are my blessing my beloved. You are my perceptions.
 
 All My Devotions, All My Perceptions
 Elohanna
 
 --also enclosed within the pages are those of her own perceptions and thoughts copied also within her own journal for his recollection and reminiscences. --
 
 The mysteries held within the earthen cellar, the discoveries made, the feelings felt within my own heart. He understands as he walked along the path with me. Each step was made in collaboration within our hearts, never alone even when we felt the situation most dire. Never did he leave me alone for an instant. Never did he cease to touch my heart. Never did he stop loving me, but he commanded within my that I trust myself and know that my choices were just and true to who I am.
 
 Truly the lives we live are no longer seperate as they once were before we knew each other but are one in each step we take. Aeridin blessed us so immensely with love in abundance that I can never truly repay him for giving me the gift of life and in doing so guided me so carefully into my beloved's arms.
 
 I once thought I understood what I wanted and how I felt. My mistake was thinking. I feel it within me now, I understand truly. I thought I could walk my path alone, but that is not the way my path is meant to be. I was a child trying to play a grown ups game because I was too foolish to realize that love does not come from the mind, it comes from the heart. That to truly love and understand its complexities you have to give into it freely with all of your being. You can not be pushed into it, you can not be told what it is. You have to know within you. Without question, without reservation.
 
 Unfortunately this lesson took me far to long to learn as in the process of learning it, I have hurt to many lives. I only hope they may understand why I could not be with them, and to them I owe an enormous apology. I only hope that they will one day understand the choices that I made. I treasure them always for being so devoted and hope that they understand one day how confused I was. I can only now pray that the love I know truly they will one day feel as abundantly.
 
 Melanna you would love him. I know you would. May you rest in peace my dear friend and know that I will always hold you dear to my heart Sis.
 
 The young warrior writes to his True Love:
 
 Dead Eye, 11 Spring Dawning 1416
 
 Hanna, my Angel of Light -
 
 Throughout my contemplations of your most recent letter, my love, I have felt truly, deeply humbled. You are an absolute blessing to me, a priceless gift who has entered my life at the behest of the Lifegiver himself. So many mysteries there are in life - I sit here in wonderment and awe as I think about you, my angel, and as I contemplate our new life together as one. With each passing moment, each and every beat of my heart, each breath of mine, truly I know and sense that I am becoming closer to you, my beloved Hanna.
 
 In reading what you shared to me of your past, and how you perceived your life experience prior to our First Embrace, aspects of my own life very similar to yours came to mind. And I wish you to know them as well.
 
 Several months prior to that blessed journey through Dregar and part of the Molten Isle with you and a few others, in which a sparkle in your eye fanned flames of love for you that had long burned within my heart, I found myself sitting in a barren tunnel deep within the mountains of Firesteep. Myself and a few others had followed one of my dearest friends, a gnome named Abi, to that place to explore and test our mettle. Abi is kind and gentle, yet slightly eccentric in the most humorous of ways, and very much gifted in the Weave.
 
 We had stopped to rest for a moment, and having finished my meditation, I knelt quietly off to the side, holding my holy amulet and praying to my Lord for continued guidance and blessing throughout the rest of this rewardingly challenging expedition. True to form, as Abi is always surprising me in some manner, subtle or otherwise, he looked over to me after I had risen from prayer with a hauntingly serious demeanor. Krys - he asked - what do you intend to do with your life? As Abi speaks common with a marked drawl, these were not his exact words. Yet despite the depth of the question the answer was clear in my mind the instant he had spoken his query - To serve my Lord Vorax and to die well - I replied.
 
 This was all I wanted in life at that moment, and for a long time before that. Yet even then I longed for you deeply within my being. But in my mind you and our being together, let alone how our lives have come to blend into One Life, was but a dream. I had seen you many times, I had looked into your eyes doing my utmost to hide my longing for you despite the racing of my heart each time I was near you. I had believed you were with another, and that either the two of you had bound yourselves to each other, or that such would inevitably happen.
 
 To serve my Lord Vorax and die well. This was the sole motto of my life at that time, my reason to live, both a means and an end.
 
 Before I indulge my desire to share with you how deeply I felt for you for so long a time before that first evening we spent together after I had brought you those boxes of pecans you had asked of me, I wish to relate what I have just shared to that which you told me in your last letter about your life before our union, before the beginning in earnest of our journey together.
 
 Serving my lord, the Eternally Vigilant, always brought and still does bring a great deal of meaning and purpose to my life. But there was a void, an emptiness, that persisted until that brisk afternoon at Xoras tower, when, after we had disembarked from the ship from the Molten Island, you looked to me with your eyes aglow with joy and your smile brighter than the sun itself as I took your hand in mine. And you said -Shall we get lost together? Truly I was lost in your eyes in that moment and a great hope began blooming within my heart, that the dream of loving you I held secretly there for so long would indeed blossom into fruition.
 
 Soon, my love, I wish to share with you, either through written word or spoken softly to you as I hold you closely in my arms - something else of my past that what you shared in your last note brought to mind. Ask me of this next time we meet or else I can write it for you in the next note I send you.
 
 I have kept this note I write you presently for several days, always with the intention of adding more to it, which however has delayed my sending it to you. So much I have to share. Soon let us resist the urge to work or adventure and just sit together in the study of our home there in Llast. Perhaps we can prepare together a nice meal, enjoy it together with some wine, then spend the rest of the evening together in each others arms sharing whatever comes to mind.
 
 I wish to tell you of the moment I first laid eyes upon you. I wish to share with you plans I am making with close friends about a very vital movement we shall shortly begin, one which I call simply, Hope, or The Council of Hope. This project will fit nicely with our efforts against slavery, and the freeing of slaves and their rehabilitation.
 
 After you departed the guild meeting the other day, Rain showed me around the hall. I stayed in one of the sleeping rooms for several hours of prayer and a brief meditation before taking the portal for Dregar. I obtained for you several fire opals and a box full of peppermint, all of which I put in our chests there in Llast. After dropping them off there I pawned a number of magic items we were not going to use, then sailed for Mariners Hold to use the kitchen there at the Freelancers Tavern to make some almond and chestnut oils. My journeys brought me back here, to our secret place in the southern jungles, where I complete this note while pausing from gathering for our guild.
 
 Soon, my love, we will be together in each others arms, soon, and I long for that moment, when once again we will be utterly together that we may fully celebrate our Love.
 
 Until soon, my Angel of Light. Until soon -
 
 I am Yours Forever,
 
 Krys

[Yllyrryon]

The young warrior journeyed alone to Grelians mine on the Molten Island, determined to right what he had perceived as yet another grave and foul wrong committed by the scornful, irreverent villain, Hawklen. Swiftly and without a trace Krys moved through the shadows of boulders and ravines as he traversed the treacherous landscape without incident, finally arriving at his destination.
 
 Krysthalien: *quietly kneels in the shadows outside the mine entrance, keeping an eye on the surrounds*
 Krysthalien: *deeply focuses on the earth about him trying to get a feel for the ki flows underlying the rocks and soil*
 Krysthalien: *wisdom check*
 Krysthalien: Wisdom Check: 9 + 2 = 11
 Krysthalien: *with determination and focus, struggles to try to fathom the nature of the earths ki flows and composition*
 Krysthalien: *stills his mind utterly; just focusing and observing the earths patterns and flows of ki that determine its most fundamental features; contemplates on this deeply for several hours, abandoning his sense of time. continues to do this until night fall*
 Krysthalien: *wisdom check*
 Krysthalien: Wisdom Check: 4 + 2 = 6
 Krysthalien: **reaches down touching the rock and soil about him with the palms of his hands, keeping in the forefront of his mind what he has learned this day of the ki flows and patterns of the earth; then speaks quietly in utmost reverence, intently*
 Krysthalien: **focusing his thoughts and concepts deep into the flows and patterns of ki he can sense underlying the very nature of the earth*
 Krysthalien: **and so he speaks in utmost reverence* oh spirits o-th earth. o-late i took an oath t-honor ye as best i could every time i came w-others here t-seek yer bounty w'thin th-veins o-cobalt n' addy deep in this here mine
 Krysthalien: others among those who joined n this oath have posted word o-wots expected o-those who come here seekin yer bounty
 Krysthalien: and o-late i was true t-m-word in offerin th-finest o-ales, pourin bottles o-it o-er eacho o-th-veins we came t-mine
 Krysthalien: but one who came afterwords o-er whom i no control wot-so-e-er acted in shameful irreverance o-ye, threatin t-urinate on yer sacred veins instead o-givin honor n offerin as ye had requested o-us
 Krysthalien: **vividly brings to mind the fresh memory of Hawklen threatening to urinate on the veins of cobalt and adamantium within the mine nearby*
 Krysthalien: **offering these memories as part of his attempt to communicate with the spirirts of the earth*
 Krysthalien: this elf named Hawklen, he n his lass Kinai withheld from us all o-th ores we mined after givin proper offerins t-ye, e-en though we requested even splits o-this bounty, accordin t-our customs
 Krysthalien: Hawklen threatened t' throw into th'trash the ore we had mined after givin ye right honors
 Krysthalien: then in complete ' total irreverence o-ye he threatend t-strip mine th-veins o-this mine w-thout givin a single offerin
 Krysthalien: none o-this we saw b-cause we left after he threaten-d to trash th-ores we took after honorin ye properly
 Krysthalien: though he stayed here, clearly w-intent t-do more minin. His intentions he voiced b-fore we left he n his lass Kinai
 Krysthalien: i returned here t-bear witness t-ye o this fella Hawklens foul deeds, his slanderin th-spirits o-th earth n threatenin t-act w-thout reverence o-th earth, while robbin th-earth o-its priceless bounty
 Krysthalien: **pauses to vividly bring to mind the fresh memories of what transpired with hawklen threatening to trash the adamantium and cobalt ores, then threatening to stip mine the mines without making offerings to the earth*
 Krysthalien: reckon ye spirits know wot, if anything he did here irreverent o-ye
 Krysthalien: do w-th fella as ye see fit, but in partin i vowed ne'er t-assist him n Kinai again
 Krysthalien: and ill continue t-do m-all in honorin ye when-e-er im amongst any seekin yer bounty here
 Krysthalien: **still with his palms firmly on the earth throughout his prayer - doing his utmost to project his thoughts and the images from his memory deep into the flows and patterns of ki he perceives within and underlying the earth itself*
 Krysthalien: *wisdom check*
 Krysthalien: Wisdom Check: 13 + 2 = 15
 
 
 Krysthalien: **sits and writes a short note to Grelian*
 
 I am Krysthalien Dawnstar, member of the group who recently tried to remedy the cave in of your mine and the stirrings of earth spirits in the mine and around these parts. After we had entered the mines that day, a spirit of the earth confronted us and gave us two choices, either force our way to the veins or agree to honor the traditions of old in which offerings were given every time a vein was cut. We chose the latter.
 
 Kobal has posted notice of this along the approaches to the boats near Xora's tower. In my first return here after our agreement with the earthen spirits, I gave offerings of fine dwarven ale at the veins, along with words of thanksgiving.
 
 Yet one who followed in our wake acted in grave disrespect. This one is named Hawklen, an elf who is a priest of the foul dark god Shadon. His lass, Kinai, had mined each vein after we gave proper offering and respect. Hawklen refused to equally divide the ore amongst us, instructing Kinai to throw it into the trash instead. And this after threatening to urinate on the veins of ore in complete disrespect of the earth. After this we departed from him and his lass Kinai. In parting Hawklen threatened to strip mine these mines near your home without proper offering. He and Kinai stayed behind. I write to inform you of this elf who acts in complete disregard of the agreement that was made to honor the earth.
 
 None of us know what actually happened here after we left him and Kinai outside your home.
 
 Many times in the past this priest of Shadon has sewn discord and disorder throughout the realm, and he seeks to do so once again here. I am at your service if I may assist in any way; I live in Fort Llast, on Mistone at the address 117 there.
 
 In Respect and Service,
 Krysthalien Dawnstar, Servant of Vorax
 
 P.S. Ready able and willing to bring the villain Hawklen to justice. Will do so with word from you.
 

[Yllyrryon]

**written in Elven in an artistic flowing cursive*
 
 Bright Eye, 2 Autumn Dark 1418
 
 My Beloved Ely-
 
 Writing this to you as I sit on the benches overlooking Lor harbor. Should stop here more often as the view is wonderful.
 
 Just got back from Belinara - a successful expedition with Clarissa, Rose, Omer, and Nye in which we accomplished several things. We struck at the base of a clan of lawless woodsmen; fought some air genasi and elementals who threaten passage through some hills near an important fort there; and explored another cave we recently found in another woods knows as the Kuhl Forest. Afterwards we rested at a vast stronghold known as Hilm Castle. We would have continued onward, but Nye and Omer had to depart.
 
 Give Auhry my love and tell him I will be home soon. His coming into our lives was a true blessing, unexpected as it was. I will never forget finding our little elven lad hiding, shivering cold amongst the crates of our storage shed outside the house there at 118 Llast. It just feels so good and so right to have given him a loving home - even more so that he has come to call us his Mums and Da. He has stolen my heart, Ely - a dear son, and it means nothing to me that he is not mine by blood.
 
 I love you so much, Ely. I long for your sweet kiss and gentle embrace, to look into your eyes so clear and pure blue as the open skies before the Darkening. You give me so much joy and inspiration, my Angel.
 
 Until soon,
 Your Krys

[Yllyrryon]

Here is the concept behind Krys, he is aptly summarized in one of my favorite quotes:
 
 

Fast as the wind, quiet as the forest, aggressive as fire, and immovable as a mountain."
 -Inscription on a Samurai battle banner.
 

 
 As a monk, he is an expert stylist, having attained enlightenment thru mastery of battle in all its aspects - though part of mastery includes always improving.
 
 Though his insightful grasp of ki is substantial, presently he lacks the wisdom to transcend the illusions of form and time. His path has been one of enlightment through physical prowess; as such, he is well on his way to piercing a third fundamental illusion, that of distance.
 
 He has attained to great mastery and power over a short period of time, and is still a very young adult elf. Perhaps he will wisen as the years pass.
 
 The quote from the samurai battle banner contains vivid imagery of nature. This also reflects Krys background - his father being a scholar of nature in Voltrex. So Krys is very interested in and cherishes all aspects of nature.

[Yllyrryon]

Too easy to go about pursing what one wants to do, rather than what one should do - writing being one of these should-do things for me.
 
 Coreth Ka-Ali Dawnstar. My son. Marked with a silhouette of a dragon on his back. Born Nights Eye, 17 Spring Dawning 1421 in the Llast Tower. Both Ely and Coreth are doing wonderfully.
 
 Rael. A sacrilege to my faith and a blasphemy to my lord. What can a single elf do in the face of such power? Refuse to acquiesce to it, that is one thing. Oppose it each and every opportunity that presents itself, another.
 
 Even if what I do is a drop in the ocean, in the face of an overwhelming tidal wave, at least at the end I will know that I tried. The ancient wisdom guides us to look towards are own death beds. In looking back, what regrets would we have? Use this to guide present action. Not having done something would indeed lead to such a regret, hence action must follow.
 
 Need to meet with the fellows of Hope to chart a new course, as the sun has returned. Thankfully there is no need for development of hardy grains in the days ahead. Yet just as in childhood, when no one else took the initiative to be my friend, no one else is acting. Such experience is why I am not surprised at this.
 
 Nothing much more on my mind this day.

[Yllyrryon]

Dream Dance, 19 Summer Home 1423
 
 Between treks with my trusted comrades and other business, for nearly the past two years, I have scouted along the frontiers of the Forest of Fog in the following segments - Seawatch Fort to the hills north of Fort Rael; from those hills north along the woods frontier past Anvil, Prantz, and Sierra to the Bramble River and the road into the woods out of Rangley; from that road along the hills north of to where the forest moves across the border with the Succession Kingdom near Sky; from Sky northeastward along that border to Gardener, after which I followed the tree line as it meandered generally eastward towards Orcs Watch; the last segment was eastward from Orcs Watch and south of the Crow Feather Mountains and on to the coast of the Glittering Ocean, at least one hundred twenty five statue miles southwest of Sloren in the Sedera Kingdom.
 
 My maps are included hereafter.
 
 The Kingdom of Raels primary axis runs north-south. At the right time, a well trained and properly equipped skirmisher force could strike regularly into this axis all along its frontier with the Forest of Fog, disrupting movement of military supplies and units as well as trade vital to Rael. This is but one facet of our strategy to defeat our Lords enemy. May Vorax guide us in every step taken and word spoken in our service of Him and His Holy Legions.
 
 *Following this passage is an extensive account of what Rael forces Krys observed along the forest frontier and into the western verges of the woods; their location, composition, and apparent mission along with a lengthy list of additional information Krys seeks. Also, maps from his efforts are included in the pages following this entry, showing in detail the geography of the region noted.*
 

[Yllyrryon]

World Tree 14 Winter Night 1425
 
 Treks thru the Deep have revealed no sign of Deep Dwarves, let alone some war being waged by, for, or against them.
 
 Severe training, fasting, and meditation - alone in the Ulan Forest for some two hundred forty days have borne fruit: more insights into how the weave affects ki. Slowly but surely, I continue to move myself beyond the weave.
 
 I continue to regularly travel thru the Forest of Fog, hunting giants and keeping an eye on Raels movements there. It seems Folian and Vorax get along well, as I am always warmly received at Folians hidden temple there. It is a beautiful and peaceful place where I have meditated many times. Those at the temple know who I am and that I am a friend. Hardy and independent folk they are - and I am not surprised they have yet to take me up on my offers of general assistance.
 
 I stand alone. Solitude can be more painful than the most difficult of physical feats. It gets to the point where one can pay attention to or disregard anything that presents itself to ones mind. So questions presents themselves - what is worthy of my attention and what should I cultivate?
 

[Yllyrryon]

*Krys carefully pastes the following note from Ely into his journal*
 
 My Dearest love, as I read your most recent journal, I understand your Solitude as I feel your loneliness to. Surely you must feel mine and Coreths as well. We miss you dearly and I have arranged for us to come home soon. It is not soon enough though because I am not there with you now.
Coreth is growing strong and fast, his natural abilities to keep me on my feet constantly as great as yours to keep me on my toes. His birthmark also continues to grow with him, it covers half his shoulder now. I am still curious where it has come from but he doesn't seem bothered at all by it.

He is his fathers son in more than just appearance but in heart as well and I can see it in his eyes he doesn't quite understand why we must be apart. And I, I do not want to be apart any longer either.

I grow weary alone. I grow troubled in many things too. I fear in some ways my faith in Aeridin falters, it has, it had that is. I have not been as devout in my faith to him my love. I have in ways sacrificed my beliefs when the church needs devote followers the most.

The lifebringer has blessed us with a beautiful little soul to protect and when I come back home. I wish to rededicate my self to helping others in the ways I can. I will strive to help more the Angels, to bring the school back to life. There is so much I can do to help the towns who need it, and restore faith in the followers of Aeridin.

My heart aches to be close to you again Krys though I feel you always.

All my love unending,
Elly

[Yllyrryon]

//Posting these notes for the sake of reference.
 
 Milt-
 
 Is there any way I could get information comparable to Eds post on Clover in the following thread for the town of Fort Love, Dregar?
 
 http://forums.layonara.com/ask-gamemaster/148262-clover-rael.html
 
 Fort Love is northeast of Vale and south-southeast of Orcs Watch.
 
 My basis for this is as follows.
 
 Per this cdt, in previous posts, he has already extensively scouted the Forest of Fog.
 
 
 The information provided by these lore posts is such that a character can easily obtain either by visiting the place, or through research on it at such a place as the Great Library.
 
 For Krys, Fort Love by virtue of its location has great strategic potential, given Krys plans to oppose Rael. Please refer to the Map of Dregar available at the following link if you havent already.
 
 http://lore.layonara.com/MapsOfLayonara
 
 First off, Krys is going to take a very long term approach to opposing Rael. As part of this approach he is considering building a monastery in the Forest of Fog which would serve at least a threefold purpose.
 
 The first would be its overt basis - an elven master has come to the woods to teach; the monastery would be open to most all races, pending Krys approval of any given applicant. Logistically, my build of Krys is very powerful - as I have built him, I have also roleplayed each phase of this as a true living person, learning these things and incorporating them into his personal wisdom and world view. The Way Krys has discovered is most potent, and he is ready to share it with others. At the deepest core of his teachings will be the path of devotion to his lord Vorax, the Father of Battle.
 
 Ideally, the numbers of Krys disciples will increase so that small, swift, stealthy units of them will be able to form to support the operations I describe below. These commandos will also be highly magick resistant, Krys having passed his knowledge of overcoming the weave to them - Voraxian counterparts to Raels Allra monks.
 
 Voraxians and especially Krys comrades amongst the Brother of Battle will come to know of this monastery. At first it will be known only amongst the High Council and those privvy to it. Any Voraxian, monk or otherwise, who learns of it and who wishes to assist will not be turned away - but they will be admonished of the absolute need to maintain a low profile in these operations.
 
 Secondly, this monastic stronghold would reach out to refugees seeking asylum from Raels empire. It would seek not only refugees that have fled into the Fog, but also anywhere else - offering secure haven to all of these.
 
 Thirdly, it would be a covert base of operations for those actively opposing Rael. I have already alluded to this above, but I add to this in saying it will not be an exclusively Voraxian endeavor. Allies will be welcome at the base along side Voraxians.
 
 Now why is Krys considering the vicinity of Fort Love for such a monastery/base? Well at this point in time it depends in part on what you tell me he knows, and perhaps on what he finds out in the next episode of the cdq. But here are some things I see already.
 
 Krys considered founding the monastery in a remote part of the woods far from anywhere else. This would have an advantage of secrecy, but operations there or supply runs to the place might run afoul of the satyr. Should Krys find a such a far-removed locale in the Fog that clearly would not interfere with the Satyr or other natives, that may be his best choice.
 
 Please look at the map of Dregar, focusing on Fort Love. A road or significant trail already connects Fort Love with Oakhurst to the northwest and Sloren to the Northeast. That major trail might one day come in handy should allies to the north - Succession or Sedera Kingdoms perhaps, or factions therein - wish to support these endeavors.
 
 Take your pointer and move it in a straight line from Fort Love northeast to to the border of the Sedera Kingdom, on the coastline of the Glittering Ocean. Now trace the coastline going back south about 2.5 to 3 cm. From that point trace a straight line back to Fort Love, completing a triangular sector whose rough edge is the coast.
 
 From the cdq, Krys knows that all along the Fogs coastline various groups - mostly illicit - offload cargoes directly from ships without using ports or docks. See the following line of discussion.
 
 

[CHAT WINDOW TEXT] [Sun Jan 13 17:51:17] Klaasen: I would suggest that the activity you implicate funnels out to somewhere on the coastline
 [CHAT WINDOW TEXT] [Sun Jan 13 18:02:31] Clarissa : [Party] The forests range all the way to the coast right? Would you have any idea where a port on the coast might be? One only used for these Ilicit types of things?
 [CHAT WINDOW TEXT] [Sun Jan 13 18:04:24] Klaasen: Could be anywhere, really. My guess is it's not really a port. all you need are loading rafts to move cargo from shore to ship. Docks are just a nicety for you civilized people. *winks*
 

 
 The sector you just traced demonstrates that some 300 statue miles of coastline are within 200 statue miles or less of Fort Love and its vicinity. The point here is that Krys and allies could readily supply a stronghold there from the sea.
 
 Now take a look at the distance from the Fort Love vicinity to Raels secured territories. Should we ever get this far, guerilla forces that are able to move swiftly through the woods would move from the monastery and make temporary base camps closer to Rael territory from which they would conduct their attacks into that territory all along its north-to-south border with the Forest of Fog. Krys and allies will have studied the satyr, hopefully gaining sufficient knowledge to enable the guerillas to avoid them as the guerillas move thru the Fog - and also in establishing the temporary bases.
 
 As I have stated, our guerillas will have developed staging and retreat tactics enabling them to avoid satyr. To the extent Raels forces are unable to do this, they will face satyr. However - under no circumstances will we ever use tactics that draw Raels forces directly into satyrs. Please note this important subtetly.
 
 The monastery itself will be deep enough into the forest - it would be costly if not impossible for Rael to get to it. He would have to go thru an extensive track of satyr controlled forest.
 
 I am very enthusiastic about these ideas as a major developmental them for Krys. We have the fundamental theme of an out-of-the-norm Voraxian taking the initiative to act against one of the faiths greatest foes in Layonara. I have always wanted to develop a monastery, but until now, I have had difficulty incorporating that into my characters developments. This also emphasizes Krys love for the outdoors. In his development, Krys had spent a significant amount of time in the Forest of Fog prior to his choice to oppose Rael. He had left Sadinia for the Ulan Woods before Ozlo summoned him to Hlint, and the Fog appealed to and satisfied Krys desire to live in sylvan environment. Though he never claimed the Fog as home, this takes him in a significant step in that direction.
 
 My next pm/post will focus on what these notes specifically entail for the second and final episode of the cdq you, Milt, are running for me.
 
 Let me know what questions you have on this.
 
 Also, I am going to post these notes in Krys private cdt, for my reference mainly. But if you need to refer anyone to these notes, they will be conveniently available for them.
 
 Thanks again, man!
 
 Caveat -
 
 There is plenty of speculation in these notes. Much of this may not come to pass, and I accept that. Writing these notes has crystalized an idea of certain minimums, or waypoints, towards which Krys will work.
 
 1. He will strive to establish a monastery in the Fog, hopefully in the vicinity discussed above.
 
 2. At some point, he will add the refugee haven function.
 
 3. At the very least, whether or not the refugee haven is established before the end of this version of Layo, the monastery will be a watch tower, if you will, from which Krys and allies will observe Raels movements. Spies will go forth, entering Rael territories from the Fogs vast frontier.
 
 In the best scenario, no opposition to Rael will begin from the monastery until two factors are adressed. One, the best possible anti-scrying wards and protections are in place on and surrounding the monastery. And two, the presence of deep dwarf slavers in the Fog and their movements are well known.
 
 As to the latter point, a choice will need to be made as to whether to avoid these deep dwarves or to eliminate them. The latter likely drawing attention, Krys will not make such a move until the scrying protections are in place.
 
 No monastic disciple will be forced to become Voraxian. The Voraxian teachings will be offered to further their progress along the Path. To the extent the spy and guerilla functions swing into fruition, these will be prime opportunites to serve and practice ones prowess, learned from Krys, whether or not the given monk is Voraxian.

[Yllyrryon]

It is fine with me if you with to post in this thread, Milt, for the purposes of this cdq. I love this private cdt thread so I can conveniently post notes, etc. here!
 
 To-Do List, Preparation for Next Episode
 
 1. Discussion with Angela Swann regarding politics in Lor pertaining to Rael.
 
 2. Discussion with Storold regarding current state of affairs in Clover.
 
 3. Ooc, provide Milt with notes on Krys long-term charter of the Lampil Maiden, ship Captain Kashir, sailing from Port Hempstead. Gm involved - Praecurrere. Will edit this post to include a log.
 
 4. What does Krys already know about Fort Love, if anything, per the previous post? Perhaps this will be a good topic to ask Ekurt.
 
 Proposed Scope for Final Episode of this Cdq.
 
 1. Orcs Watch, interviewing the mercenary woodsman Erkurt. This is the starting point we agreed upon at the close of the first episode. So this is a rough fellow to whom Krys will pose a few questions regarding his ability to be a guide, his knowledge of the Fog. Perhaps offer trues or loot for information - instead of or in addition to the guide work. I am undecided at this point as to whether Krys will look for a guide, especially this fellow, or just go explore on his own.
 
 2. Travel to Fort Love. Begin to learn about the place, its people and leading personalities, its surrounds.
 
 3. Work through the triangular sector area described in the previous post. Perhaps rendezvous with Kashir off shore - or returning to some port to meet her, perhaps relatively nearby Sloren - exploring the coastline from sea. I am betting we may have to narrow this further, but its a start.
 
 a. The goal here will to be thoroughly explore the triangular sector, or at least part of it. This is alot of forestland and coastline, so I am open to whatever advice you have on this, and your ultimate decision, in terms of fitting into the in-game cdq.
 
 b. Krys will be looking especially for Deep Dwarf Slavers, and evidence of their activity or passage in or around this sector. Again that may be like a needle in a haystack but this will be on his mind. The main general purpose is exploring this sector.
 
 c. Who or what are the natives of this area? To what extent do satyr frequently range through here? Are they here regularly? This general theme can be described as trying to ascertain the nature of who or what are already there.
 
 d. Coastline exploration. Since Krys currently has that long term charter, I would prioritize this. Likely we are limited as to how close Kashir will be able to sail to the shoreline, unless she already knows these waters well. Assuming the limitation holds, we will sail as close as possible. Krys and company will do their best to ascertain from the boat prospective points of interest - perhaps also using summons if we have some that might work - I am thinking flying ones. Then use row boats to carefully approach points of interest. How we do this will depend on circumstances presented.
 
 I have run out of time, so please pardon mis-spelling and other errors. I will have to correct these later. Just getting my thoughts down.

[Yllyrryon]

Night's Eye, 3 Autumn Twilight 1427
 
 Clarissa-
 
 Something has happened to Ely.
 
 On my way out of the depths beneath the Thunder Peaks I had a terrible feeling about Ely`s safety and wellbeing.  Gut feelings like these I do not ignore.
 
 I fear for her and our child she carries.
 
 Hoping to find you very soon upon my return to Mistone. I will proceed directly to Llast. Seek me there.
 
 Comrades in Justice,
 
 Krys

[Yllyrryon]

Bright Eye, 9 Winter Deep 1428
 
 Editing Council reports, managing other Council business.
 
 Studious work in the tower is always a welcomed change of pace. Plenty of time to spend with Ely, Nemo, and the boys. I am here and they are safe.
 

[Yllyrryon]

**Krys attaches copies of the following letters into his journal**
 
 World Tree, 7 Summer Run 1428
 
 Dear Lady Angela,
 
 Not long ago, I learned that you are one of Lor`s leaders. As I have some questions pertaining to your city, I would be most grateful for a few moments of your time. Please let me know when and where we could meet at your convenience.
 
 Respectfully,
 Krysthalien Dawnstar
 
 World Tree, 7 Summer Run 1428
 
 Storold-
 
 I would like to meet some time soon to discuss your home town of Clover, in the Forest of Fog. I haven't heard anything pertaining to it since our conversation in Leringard. Please let me know when and where we could meet at your convenience.
 
 Respectfully,
 Krysthalien Dawnstar
 
 World Tree, 7 Summer Run 1428
 
 Sala-
 
 After we defeated the vampire Marilyn in that Silkwood cave, I obtained a vial of liquid from the body of the treacherous mercenary, Charles. I gave it to you, and to the best of my knowledge, you still have it.
 
 As vampires still continue to plague Ely and me, I would be most grateful if you would return that elixir to me.
 
 In Gratitude,
 Krys
 
 **Krys adds a short note**
 
 The boys are safe.
 
 Ely seems to believe the vampires were targeting her as part of some twisted plot to get me to become one of them. So little do they understand me; so little do they understand us and our love for one another.

[Yllyrryon]

Winged Trade, 6 Autumn Harvest 1429
 
 Offered to Tobi, G`ork, Hardragh, and others a bounty for the capture and delivery to me of Laura or information allowing me to find her - also, another bounty for the capture and delivery to me of Greenfield.  Will include Steel in this.
 
 Laura will know neither rest nor peace.  Her debt to my family is infinite, and I will collect upon it.

[Yllyrryon]

World Tree, 7 Spring Blossom 1434 - North Hampton, Vanavar
 
 Folks see an emaciated elf in hooded crimson garb stagger into town at dawn one morning. He seems to have an abundance of coin on him, purchasing a large quantity of various foodstuffs, including several bottles of fruit juices and milk, all of which he carefully packs into a large pack. He moves west down the shore line and makes camp within sight of the town.
 
 For months, the curious spy him training vigorously at dawn and dusk, the rest of his time spent either in meditation or prayer, or eating and drinking the large quantities of food and drink he occasionally acquires from the local market. With a quiet, polite demeanor, he keeps to himself and causes no trouble.
 
 On a brisk morning the astute amongst the townsfolk note the absence of the elf`s campfire and see that he has entirely packed his camp supplies for departure. The elf, now full of vigor and moving with purpose, is seen about the docks, negotiating passage for Audira. He boards a ship departing for that port shortly thereafter.
 
 The day is Winged Trade, 15 Autumn Dark 1434.

[Yllyrryon]

Bright Eye, 23 Winter Snow 1434.
 
 En route across Dregar, I stayed a few days near the crossroads of the valley north of Warrior Falls, near Dalanthar. Although the eccentric midget still paces those crossroads much has changed there. The trails northwards into the peaks are closed by debris and perilous slides of stone.
 
 Wrote a short note to my friend, Tharn Hammerfist of the Ulgrids, while I camped in the remote verges of that valley. Simply informed him of the decision I reached back on Vanavar regarding Vorax. No need to tell a soul what I gleaned from those years of purging myself as an ascetic hermit in that cave in the Broken Mountains there.
 
 The messenger falcons still soar through the skies, so my message should reach Tharn in but a few days`s time. Two copies I sent, one for Tharn himself and the other for posting openly in Vorax`s temple there.
 
 I post a copy of those notes herein for reference.
 
 World Tree, 21 Winter Snow 1434.
 
 To Tharn Hammerfist, Ulgrid`s Hold, Mistone
 
 Hail to you and with this missive comes my earnest wishes that it finds you well and prosperous along with all of your clansmen.
 
 After years of contemplation in isolated austerity, I have chosen to abandon the path of the gods. Freely I had chosen to follow Vorax out of my admiration of and gratitude towards you and your people. Though these sentiments remain strong in my heart, my childish zeal no longer abides, and no longer do I desire to obtain the favor of any god. I learned much from your faith that I will take with me to my dying breath and beyond, but I wish to attain to complete self-realization independent of the shackles of any religion.
 
 Furthermore, I must make this declaration openly. It matters not whether any know of my name or how I am judged on account of my integrity. So please post this with the other announcements in the temple within Ulgrids` Hold.
 
 Be well, Tharn, and may you always walk in wisdom and skill.
 
 Krysthalien Dawnstar
 
 Now on to Llast.

[Yllyrryon]

Having spent the last several days at home with the children and Ely, Krys pauses a moment to ponder the prospects of an upcoming trial of Aerimor, or even if one will ever occur. Watching Ely and their beloved little angels he contemplates the deep interconnectedness of all things, especially that of family. Aerimor`s murder of Ely and Jaelle may have well been an attempt to murder himself or these children. Krys thinks this as he nods to himself slowly. Hence both Krys and their children were equally victims of Aerimor`s heedless act.
 
 And if Ely had been one of the vast majority of living beings not bound to the bindstones? Lost forever. Krys tightened his jaw as a chill passed over him while he watched how lovingly and adoringly the kids played with their mother. And what if the soul mother has been nearby during Ely`s death? The same result - a loving and beloved wife and mother forever lost to those who need and cherish her the most.
 
 Ely`s selflessness had cost them all dearly; Krys even blamed that for the deaths of their unborn twin daughters at the hands of the vampires who had relentlessly tortured Elohanna after capturing her, causing her to miscarry the unborn twins. Had she put the twins and herself first, she would have heeded Krys` pleas for her to remain in exile until the threat was no more.
 
 Selflessness, although noble, can be carried to unfortunate extremes, just like anything else. And what happens when there is no more self to give?
 
 A large part of him strongly yearned to personally settle this injury Aerimor had inflicted upon him and his family. But recent painful lessons had brought him to understand that one must tread the path of vigilantism only after deep reflection, and then only with great caution and deliberation.
 
 In that moment he gained an insight into the plight of those who suffer injustice without relief or vindication.
 
 After hugging and kissing his wife and children he quietly prepared for a journey and departed swiftly.
 
 Many days later the crimson clad warrior was seen entering Rofirein`s temple in Vehl. After waiting about town for a couple more days, he was granted audience with one of the lead judge-priests. The crux of their discussion was that Krys, on behalf of his children and himself, as the husband and children of one of the victims, implored that the murderer Aerimor be prosecuted to the utmost extent of the law for the reckless murder of Krys` wife and his children`s mother, Elohanna Dawnstar. He also disclosed his understanding that the other victim, an elf named Jaelle, had been with child at the time of the murder and Krys had understood that Aerimor`s motive was some form of revenge against Jaelle; that his wife Elohanna had attempted to intercede, first trying to dissuade Aerimor and then when that failed, trying to defend Aerimor`s intended victim, Jaelle; Elohanna died in defending Jaelle. Prior to departing, he thanked the priest for his time and submitted his address for future contact and notice of trial, if and when the latter was deemed appropriate.
 
 http://forums.layonara.com/rumour-has/193132-trial-aerimor-lightbringer.html#post1040642