Layl Maaw, Sun's Journal

[Leshariel]

I am still laughing at my husband's daily incidents stories. He told me the other day he went with a group to the Dragon Islands and they found tree ents that were creating resistance.  He started then talking to every other tree he found on his way out... *laughs* He is so sweet...  

We went to some caves recently and he found some gelatinous creatures that attacked us. We defended ourselves, and at the end, we killed some of them. My Stone touched one of them and then he started wipping his hands off the rocks on the caves... *laughs warmly*.  He makes me laugh... I like that.

He surprised me the other day as he sobbed because he got insulted by some lady at Port Hempstead because he's not good with words.  Yes, he hasn't had an upbringing that allowed him to study, and he's had to survive all his life, but he has a good heart to help others. That's why he wants to learn magic, to be able to help others when he can. As I wipped off the tears from his cheeks, I caressed his face and embraced him warmly to show him that even when others don't understand him, I surely do.

After that, we ran out to Fort Vehl, but on our way out from Port Hempstead, he found his Master, Elohanna. She seemed distant, perhaps meditative. As he addressed her, our friend Aerimor got arrested by this lady who insulted my beloved one. How dare she! Just because they have money and lots of possessions, doesn't mean they can abuse their power.

Alatriel got enraged, and my Stone tried to prove his point and get arrested by.... running naked!!! Oh my! The situation was embarassing and tense at the same time.  This lady withdrew the charges and let Aerimor go, but not without a fight.  They will have their reward some day. As they lay down on their death beds, they will be accountable to higher beings for what they did, and they will sow what they deserve.  I believe there is a higher being, a supreme being that watches for justice.

I have been practicing combat techniques with my Stone, my beloved husband. The other day we went to the arena and boom! He knocked me down for a little bit as we practiced some combat moves.  *giggles*

Stone likes making traps to slow down or defeat enemies, so we lure them to the traps and ambush them. I often call my celestial wolf for help. He's been good in battle. I make sure that I sing my bard song to make him stronger as he helps protect us.

I have also been learning several spells that will be good in battle.  The other day, I ventured out with a group, and I accidentally casted the Balgarian's Horn spell and hurt my foes as well as my friends.... that was a wake up call... I could have killed them.  Aerimor's panther attacked me to defend his master... and it also defeated me. Somehow a waking experience that I need to be careful of how I use my bard spells, since they can be extremely powerful as I grow wiser. These spells should be used for good and to help defend, not to destroy friends.

I learned the hard way this time, and Stone did learn too that during battle we need to be fully aware of our surroundings. We ventured out with a group to a place with giants.  We ended up defeated, both of us. It was sad, but definitely a learning experience for both. I think I'll continue expanding my skills to make healing potions that I can use in battle. With my bard skills, these potions will be great to aid others during combat.

I have a strong desire to continue crafting instruments. I am so proud of myself! I made a Hickory bow for the violin the other day! I have a wide collection of Tambourines and Hickory Chimes. I long to keep making more and learning to use these instruments as well. My parent's lifestyle was one of music, performance and entertainment. I look forward to do the same some day as I continue developing my skills.  Perhaps I can write a song for my Stone when he's feeling sad.  I tried lifting his spirits with my song the other day and I saw a little bit of light on his eyes.

I have also met some interesting friends in this town. The other day, a female elf called Nemo helped me go mining. She was such a sweetheart! She handed me some flowers.  Such a young elf reminds me of myself when I used to travel with my parents as a young one. I felt so protected, so safe back then... until they got murdered that is.  After that, my life became one of survival and developing skills that help you dealing with others on the roads.  I keep reminding myself that not everyone has a good soul and have to watch for evil and trickery.  At times it's hard to identify friends from foes, and my Stone sometimes gets too close to strangers, so I always try to keep my weapon handy just in case they come to attack us as it has happened in the past.  I wouldn't want my beloved one to get hurt, so I'll stand by him and watch.

Be well!

[Leshariel]

Yesterday we ventured out with a group that was going to the goblin caves, or goobs, like my Stone calls them. *laughs warmly* He makes me laugh.  We almost lost one, but we quickly moved and he recovered from the goblin magic.  I often used my bard song to strengthen my friends and Dazed some goblins to help them in battle. I also helped healing a few of them when needed healing.  I used my bow and arrow to surprise goblins that were not on guard, and lure them to our front line figthers.

As we finalized our journey, I found an area that almost looks like a stage. Having grown with my parents as performers, stages are familiar to me. I stepped up there and danced and my Stone didn't seem to like it.  I told him I was dancing for him... but other males started tossing coins at me. While I didn't understand why they did this, apparently my Stone got offended. I saw some frustration on his eyes as he walked away. I can't stand hurting my beloved one, so I apologized to him and promised him that I wouldn't do that again. I love him so much! He's everything to me!

As we rested outside the caves, we started talking with the group and again, they addressed some issues with the use of power incorrectly in town. One of them mentioned he will issue an investigation about the incident with Aerimor getting arrested. My Stone explained to this powerful warrior that Aerimor was under this lady's magic influence and she made him punch his friend Alatriel, a female. After that, she then arrested him.  What type of evil use of magic and power was this display? I hope that justice is done.

I look forward to continuing my crafting, so I'll ask my Stone to go get some wood to make some instruments. I know it will be wonderful to play again.

[Leshariel]

Could I venture alone and get wood to make instruments?  I pondered on that and quickly headed out to try it on my own on the outsides of Port Hempstead. In the blink of an eye, I was under attack by mercenaries, a skunk, a wolf and even some deer joined the group.

My Stone told me the other day that he will write a play called "When animals attack" and will showcase all our ventures and encounter with wild animals. He's got such a sense of humor! *laughs*

As the blood pumped faster and the senses sharpened, I looked at the enemies and I managed to step back, arm my bow and quickly help my loyal dog on the battle. I sang my bard song to give him strength and quickly defended him from the enemies that were attacking us.  After all that unexpected fight, I retrieved some deer meat that will make a great roast for dinner. I know my Stone will lick his fingers and perhaps even the plate! *giggles*

I quickly rushed back with an ax to get some hickory but those nasty mercenaries kept shooting magic and desease my way and I had to run away before I fainted.  

I need to develop a strategy to get to the wood without causing too much commotion.  I thought of becoming invisible, but I have found out that my ax disrupts my concentration and the invisibility spell just runs out. That's frustrating, because then I become a target to any enemies nearby.  Perhaps I can relearn the Balgarian's Horn Spell and cast it on my enemies. I'm looking into learning the Curse song to be ahead on any attacks from these tricky enemies.  I'll continue developing more ideas to make it happen.  I really don't want to burden my Stone to get wood for me and carry it all the time, because it's so heavy!

It is a desire that I have to continue making instruments for my profession and also making my arrows more powerful weapons. I've failed over and over making arrows so far, but I'm not giving up just yet. With Stone's traps and his magic and my bard skills, my bow and arrow, we could make some day a powerful team that will allow us gather materials for his potions, spells and my arrows.

I'll continue learning, practicing and laughing at my Stone's jokes and stories. He's such a sweet being! I hope others learn that as well and see his goodness.

Be well

[Leshariel]

As I looked into his eyes, shortly after loosing him, I realized that there's nothing more powerful than our love. Even after death...

Stone and I ventured to some caves in Haven, with a group that was trying to help with a cave that was surrounded by guards. Zombies were coming out of it and one of them had a note written on their back.  Apparently some vampire was behind this and we needed to find out.

As we ventured inside the caves, my Stone fell.  My heart was devastated, the world stopped....My senses got sharpened, as my heart felt the burden of pain that is beyond my comprehension.  I cried over his warm body, holding his face against mine as I called his name.  "My love, my beloved"... My tears ran over his face as rain that brings life to a weak flower by the road. I embraced him as strong as I could, hoping that our love would help his sould come back to me.

He finally did.... as he rested, weak from his experience, I sobbed and hugged him as strong as I could.  I hope I never experience this again... I wished it was me this time who fell down, not him.

As we entered the caves, we found some resistance.  Some undead surrounded us and we saw something that we never saw before... undead that explode on fire!  As we ventured in, we found more and more of those. We reached a desk with some scripts and plans that we couldn't really read very well.  My Stone thought it was something to create a device or a bomb of some sort.

As we continued our journey into the place, we realized that there's more and more of these zombies.  We reached a place where a woman was crying and screaming. She was put there by this vampire and she seemed to be the source of power for this machine that would keep creating more and more zombies.  We tried to free her from the machine but it had magic of some sort.  

We decided to move to the next room and continue searching the place, since we had find some plans, scrolls and clues on how the machine works.  As we headed deeper in the place, more of these zombies came to attack us.  They surely were dangerous!

We found another desk with more plans, and we finally figured out how to free the woman from the machine so that no more zombies were produced. We headed back and after some seriuos effort and some magic, the woman was free.

As we headed out, we found some more of these flaming zombies.  At some point, one of them was close to me, and someone in the group called for lighting. After that... I blacked out.  Darkness surrounded me... quiet.

My Stone tells me that I fell but I don't remember anything but darkness for a while and I woke up back on Haven.  He told me he carried my body.  He got angered with the one who called for lighting, but he also mentioned that he also died on his own hands due to his own mistake of calling lighting in such a small area.  I guess we've had done mistakes ourselves.  

We all make mistakes and learn from them... I called a spell the other day that could have hurt my friends as well and I learned my lesson very well.   I guess this time this warrior was not as lucky as I was back then, as he fell defeated.

Next day, we ventured out with another group that were going to return a book to a dragon. I had never been so close to a dragon, so I went with them.  I can't recall the location where we went to, but I do know it was a place where elves used to live a long time ago and now it's a domain of darkness.  

We reached a gate watched by orcs.  The orcs couldn't speak well, but we managed to get in.  There was a dark elf within the group, her names was Illadril, and she took over the mind of the main creature and allowed us in.  *sighs* At least the dark elf used the magic to help and not destroy.

As we entered the ruins, we saw not one but two dragons. One in our group, called Twist, fainted as we faced the biggest mystical creature I've ever seen. I have to admit, I was a bit shaken by it's greatness. I held Stone's hand and he held me and helped me calm down.

After some interaction with this dragon, the group decided to keep the book and continue translating it.  The book was written in draconic and had some elven notes but they needed more information to decode the contents of the book. At some point a name was mentioned, that made the dragon feel angry. I would look into this name, since it seemed to be a key to this book.

Yesterday I ventured to get some silk at Silkwood. I've been able to cast invisibility on me and I can now gather all the silk I need to make instruments for my bard skills.   I also ventured in the caves and fought some cobolds that didn't like my prescence there. I called my dog and we got rid of them.  After that, I was happy to gather some copper to make arrow heads. I've been able to make a few already and I'm looking forward into making more.

As I headed out, I ran into Aerimor and finally met his brother Verideth. He was happy to have a fiance and he was looking for her. I handed out a blue rose that I had in my bag to hand in to her fiance. I think her name was Leshariel, and I recall meeting her at some point in Port Hempstead while I made some instruments. She shared some tips on how to use the equipment on the crafting hall to make the instruments. She seemed really nice.  Verideth was a bit hesitant to receive the flower for his beloved one. I think that he doesn't like to gather flowers because he might think it's killing them.  I'll ask him next time to see if he can explain.

Today, I was very excited as I gathered some wood and more copper on my own. My skills are improving and I find extremely rewarding to be able to make arrows that some day I will be able to use arrows more powerfully in battle.

As I crafted some cloth, I ran into Benjamin Poetr and Sala.  They shared some interesting information about a bow that makes arrows itself?  They mentioned Ferrit, who I met recently while shopping for rings and armor at the Angel's Guild. My Stone says it's a gang place, but I think it's more of a trade spot... still have to figure this out.  I hope the items they sell there were not stolen or so.  We bought a necklace that helps me hide from the spiders and also a ring that helps me craft instruments.

Sala and Benjamin explained that an enchantment rod can make the arrows more dangerous in battle. I will definitely look into that. My eyes got a bright spark of happiness and excitement about learning more about arrows. Mr. Poetr mentioned some arrows can heal the undead?? I didn't know that! I had been using all sorts of arrows... I guess I have to be careful and learn more about this.

They also gave me two names of arcane archers that are very powerful and live near the town. I will seek their knowledge and will find out if they would be willing to apprentice me into the art.  I have a desire to make this happen and feel that this could be the opportunity I have been looking for.  My Stone already has a mentor and I feel I'm ready to find one for myself.

Be safe

[Leshariel]

*written with deep sadness*  

His last words to me were

[Leshariel]

*written with deep sadness*  

His last words to me were 'I love you' as he headed out to the gnoll mines.  My Stone, my beloved has been missing for days. *cries as she writes this entry*

As we left each other, my hand softly caressed his hand as he walked away and smiled. He had that intense smile he always has when he is about to venture to new territories he has never explored. I could compare that with a youngest elf with a newly crafted toy, excitement and curiosity at the same time.

I crafted a few items, and as I was about to return home, I found Alatriel, and Aerimor and his twin brother Verideth.  This last one still has not found his beloved fiance Leshariel and I sensed some sadness on his eyes.  They were about to venture out to gather some materials, and I offered help, but then later remembered that I needed to cook dinner for my Stone as he returned from the mines. So, I headed back home and waited for my Stone.

Time slowly passed by. No signs of my Stone.  The food kept getting colder just as the night was getting darker and quieter.  The night became silent.  As I looked out on the window, I felt an unusually cold breeze coming into the house.  The soul stone that my beloved gave me, which I held on my pocket, was not changed, but I knew something was wrong.  My Stone would never leave me for this long.

Is he in danger? Has he being wounded in the mines? My heart falls apart of the thought of him being wounded and alone in such a dangerous place.  I must go and find out. Need some company for this, since the mines are a dangerous place.  I need to gather a group that will come with me and find out.

*holds Stone's soul stone against her cheek and whispers* My love! My beloved one.  Hang in there.  I'll get a group down there to rescue you.  *kisses his soul stone with hope that he will listen to her cry*

[Leshariel]

I have ventured out on the city and have asked a few familiar faces if they have seen my Stone. Nobody has!  I hope he's doing ok. I will venture tomorrow with anyone who is willing to help me find him. I'm sure a few hands will come handy on defending against any unwanted enemies.

Wait for me, my love! I am coming to help you!

[Leshariel]

I lost him. This time is forever. My Stone is gone.

I ventured out to the Haven mines to find out if my Stone was still there, trapped within those walls.  A few familiar faces helped on the search, while a few new ones volunteered for the effort.

We ventured in, cautious, due to the powerful creatures that live within the caves. We encountered some opposition from the gnolls. We searched. We looked for him, didn't find him.

We reached deep within the caves. At a bridge in front of a gate, we stopped. My hopes were low. Everyone would say that it was too dangerous; he couldn't make it here alone.

Verideth went through the gates as the others waited by my side. I prayed to any higher beings up there who would listen to my cry. Please, don't let my Stone be here. My Laenela!

As we waited, time passed slower and slower. I could feel my own heartbeat as I waited for any news.  Verideth came back saying that he saw the gnolls making some kind of ritual over a dead body. I asked him if the body was wearing blue clothes. That's what my Stone had the day he ventured into the caves. Verideth said yes, it was blue.

I fainted. Darkness surrounded me. I couldn't bear the pain of losing my Stone. He'd been missing for days. He wouldn't dissappear on me like that. As I recovered my strength, a new face called Elgon went in on animal form and sniffed the body. He confirmed it was him... it had his scent on the body.

As he gave me the horrible news, the pain caused tears to come to my face. I sobbed, and called his name. His last words came to my mind "I love you". His eyes were bright in excitement and I knew he was happy to go on one of his adventures. What went wrong?  Why did the Soul Mother not forgive him this time?

I mourn my loss. I wait in time for this pain to go away. My Stone is gone. I will not see his face again or his bright eyes again. My Stone! *sobs*

[Leshariel]

I have kept myself busy lately. I know my Stone would have loved for me to be happy. I'm still searching for that happiness after he departed.

I have crafted some arrows, new instruments for my song and some wood items.  Keeping myself busy helps me feel a purpose; Stone would have been so proud.

Many of the others have been very kind.  I spent some time with Alatriel, Aerimor and his brother Verideth. This last one mentioned his beloved Leshariel doesn't want to see him anymore. A love so strong should overcome anything, even his father's lack of approval for their love.

Verideth talked to me the other day. I had been disrespectful of nature and left some deer unattended while searching for wood. I will keep my guard next time and will make sure that I hunt these beings for food and clothing. He's right. My time wandering from city to city has made me get disconnected with my kind's traditions, way of life.  I need to share with more elves, reconnect.

Today, I ventured out to some unexplored area with Benjamin.  He was very kind to show me where to get wood.  It was quite an exploration, at least to me.  Later on, we found another group in Prantz, and we joined them. There was again Alatriel, Verideth and Aerimor and a few others. We were outnumbered by some gigantic mushrooms... I perished. They had this aura that made us dazed and we couldn't move. Alatriel also perished.

As I came back, the Soul Mother didn't call me this time. I was grateful. I have never seen her, but I've heard stories. She didn't forgive my Stone... didn't allow him to come back to me.

As I meditated on my death, Verideth had compassion and offered to go back and find my grave to pray and lift the sorrow of my soul.  I felt some empathy on his gesture. He is on his own way, mourning the loss of his beloved Leshariel as I am mourning my Laenela.  

We ventured out again and we found the grave. I felt much better as I meditated and prayed. After that, we headed out and he invited me to explore some areas with him.  I assumed this would be a good thing to take my mind of the latest dark events that have surrounded my life.

We found some interesting beings. We found a desert area with ant people. I had never seen those before! They were dangerous. There were some giant creatures in some cold freezing area covered with snow. One of them saw me and tossed a big rock on me. I was badly wounded.  Verideth came to the rescue and helped me go to a safe place and helped me heal. His kindness is refreshing during these times.

We ran into a Skald called Flynn. Verideth had told me about him. I have been very curious about this line. I like to sing and help with my song in battle, and I have heard that skalds have very powerful abilities when it comes to singing. We sat down for a while and he shared some interesting facts. I grow more curious about this and want to learn more about the northern ways.  He gave me some ideas to get started with the research and pointed me in the right direction.  He even offered to share some of his knowledge. His kindness touches my heart. I am very excited about this opportunity and smile more often now. Perhaps this was meant to be. The more I learn, the better I will be able to help others in battle much better and prevent others from finding my Stone's fate.

I can smile again... I find excitement on this new ways to develop my skills. I look forward to my trip to the northern lands to see their ways and learn more about them.

[Leshariel]

Interesting week has this been... I went crafting yesterday to keep myself busy and improve my skills.  I made a few instruments. Still making tambourines with no effort, but I want to continue crafting as much as I can to make me a violin and finally play.

I also made some rye and barley wort. Perhaps making it myself makes it taste better. I never developed a taste for grog as my husband used to drink, but the ale I tasted the other day was much better and refreshing.

On my way out of the kitchens I ran into Verideth. It felt good to see a familiar face.  He made me laugh as he assumed bird form and kept making jokes. He called me a pretty lady. He's so sweet. There's a darkness about him but at the same time, a purity of his way of living that I find intriguing.  He gave me a gift. Some boots that will help me perform my bard song. I wiped off my tears of happiness. It's been a while since I could feel happy.  I can feel the pain lifting off already.

I also ran into Alatriel and Aerimor.  Alatriel was wearing a wonderful dress. She's quite good on making clothing changes. Perhaps I can ask her to make me a nice dress some day.  She brought me some boots that also would help in battle. They were nice. She's so good to me.  It feels nice to have others being so good without asking for something in return. My heart feels peaceful.

Later that day we went into the kitchens and we ran into Flynn.  I told him about our quick visit to Krashin.  Interesting place. Everybody was so braggy, proud of what they do.  They live their life to the fullest, and only the strong survive.  It's interesting to live as if it is the last day of our life.

I shared this with Flynn and he agreed on this. I admire this way of life. After my Stone died, I want to take every moment to live life and not to waste it. Flynn agreed with this. I told him I want to learn from him.  He told us that he lost a friend today. He was meditating on this...

I mentioned that I was going to get copper and his eyes open wide. I could see a spark of excitement in there.  Exploration and combat seemed like a good lift to his spirit at that time.  He told us that he knew where to get platinum. I didn't know and Verideth wanted also to learn, so we decided to venture out for platinum.

On the way there, we found some resistance. Flynn gracefully used his skills to defeat his enemies. They were powerful. I am amazed of his use of fear to break down the enemies' will.  These powerful monsters ran into the walls, blinded by their deepest fears. It was just amazing to see how powerful this was. They didn't even noticed us there. We defeated them easily on our way to the platinum.

As we headed out, I thanked Flynn and asked him to meet again some time. I would love to see his skills in combat and learn from him. There's so much to learn...

[Leshariel]

Interesting times these are. I feel the darkness of my loss lifting very slowly.  I still miss my Stone, I feel him still around... but I know his love will stay with me forever. He would have been very happy to see the latest events.

I crafted a new instrument... a copper harp. I will continue crafting more violin bows, but I'm proud of having such a beautiful instrument in my possession.  I handed one of the tambourines that I made the other day to Keppli Quickhands in exchange for help mining on the caves.  Those caves are dangerous and the more help I get before coming in, the safer I feel. I also exchanged some copper with Benjamin Poetr and Alatriel for some goods that they made.  Perhaps some day I would be good enough to make full sets of instruments that I can sell as well. Stone would have been so proud of me on this. He believed in making money while helping others, and these instruments I'm sure will help other bards out there.

I went to the Guild and spoke with Ferrit about an order that Stone had made. She was kind enough to let me exchange the items, since he's no longer around.  As I stepped out of town, a bird found me, and it had a note from Verideth.  He needed help at the goblin caves, he was surrounded.  I ran to his assistance as fast as I could. He's been so helpful.

As I found them, some goblins tried to harm me but I sucessfully made my way out of their line of fire and fought them back.  I found Verideth with a couple others, Tod and Vanther.  This last one has a song that is comforting, I guess that monks have also that ability to sing and help others relax and meditate.  

As we headed out of the caves, a goblin ambushed us and it defeated me. I found myself in darkness.... I was hoping the Soul Mother would not find me and would forgive me. She did.  As I could see again, I headed to the caves to pray on my grave and lift the burden of my soul.  I found the group already out of the caves, and headed in invisible with Verideth, who offered nicely to guide me along the way to make sure I was fine.  He's so kind...  

He gave me a blue rose. I thought he didn't pick flowers so that he wouldn't harm the land... I assume it was already picked and he didn't have a problem with that. A blue rose? What does it mean?  Is he being friendly? I enjoy his company inmensely and owe him for his teachings about the woods and tips on combat strategies.  There's some sadness on his eyes but at the same time, a passion for life that I relate to.

I am thinking about finding Flynn again and talking a bit more with him about our outing the other day where he casted fear on those creatures.  I'm still thinking about that... I have no words to descrive the power of his song.

I will continue getting more copper, silk and hickory to continue expanding my crafting skills. This gives me also some practice on combat skills if a spider or a beetle come attack me when in the woods. I've been able to defeat the beetles when they get aggressive, so I am hoping that my skills continue improving as they are.  I've got to seize every opportunity, every moment. Give nothing for granted.

[Leshariel]

As I reflect on the last few weeks, I realize that I'm feeling much better, more determined to continue learning and enjoying life at its fullest.  Every moment counts, live it as if it was your last.

I found a very pleasant human Benjamin Poetr, who was heading out of the city for an exploration trip and a quick copper stop. I feel respect toward Mr Poetr, and I feel strange addressing him as Ben, but that's what he said he enjoyed the most, so that will be the way I will address him.  I enjoy his company, he is very knowledgable and I can continue trading goods with him and learn from his combat strategies.

As we were venturing, we found Hedessa, another pleasant human to be around.  She kept us company and mentioned she wanted to show me some beautiful places by Mariner's Hold.

As we got to the outsides of the city, a griffon attacked us. They inmediately went into battle, and I tried to help with my song. I realize it helped them well, because they defeated such a powerful creature sucessfully. They are very talented in battle.

After that, we helped a farmer figure out a mistery of what happened to his cows that kept disappearing. We found out that the griffon had been stealing them as we found one of his cows collars on the griffon's legs.  The farmer was sad, but he thanked us for the help. I hope he puts up a fence or something to help the cows not go that way anymore.  There are also lions that can be dangerous to the cows.

We kept exploring together and we found something amazing, something beautiful that made a great impact on my grief.  We got to a city called Stone, just like my Stone.  It was breath taking... beautiful. Gigantic waterfalls that fell to the ground with such power and then created a cloud that would disappear into the air as if they were being lifted to heaven. I felt peace... I meditated on this beauty and I felt like my Stone was whispering to my ear "I am ok, I am at peace". Tears of joy came to my eyes as I felt a burden lifted from my heart.

After I meditated, Hedessa told me that there was another place she wanted to show me.  It was right next to that city and it was called Sun Castle.  How amazing this was... Is it coincidence?  The castle was also beautiful, bright, unguarded. Ben mentioned he couldn't find an entrance to it. Perhaps the entrance is underground? That's what I thought.  

My body still shivers as I think about this amazing trip and what it meant to me. A Sun castle unguarded, next to the beautiful city of Stone. Is my Stone telling me he will guard me?  Is he telling me that he will be by my side always? I know he will. I know he wants me to be happy and so I will.  I have peace.

As we headed out to the docks to return from our exploration trip, we made a few quick stops.  At one point, Ben was chased by some strange giantic creatures I've never seen. One of them resembled a robot. I became overwhelmed with fear and almost died. Hedessa rescued me as I almost bleed to death as the creature started pounding on my helpess body on the ground.  I felt stronger and I ran away as they battled these creatures.  It was so fast! Almost a blur of what happened that moment.  At least they defeated these creatures and we were all unharmed.

We got closer to the docks and stopped by a ranger's station.  There was an underground cave and Ben went ahead and looked to see what type of creatures were in there. He said there were worms in there. That would be quite an experience, fighting giant worms.  We decided not to head in because it seemed to dangerous. As we rested, Hedessa showed us one of her latest learned tricks. She calls it a "water element". She poured some wine on the ground and there it was... a water creature emerged from it. It had some sort of trident on its hand and had no legs, just water... That was quite interesting.  

I really enjoyed the company of these two humans. I look forward to see them again and venture out exploring these continents. Their knowledge and abilities are helpful on defending ourselves from unwanted company.

*sighs and smiles*

[Leshariel]

Verideth asked me to join him on a raffle for donations to help the victims of the latest dragon attack.  I thought it was a good idea to see what this foundation is all about.  Besides, I find myself enjoying Verideth's company more lately.  He is funny, but can get very serious all of a sudden. He's often misunderstood but he has a good heart to help others when he can.  He has a passion for the land, to respect it and live on it in harmony with nature. I can respect that. There's a lot I can learn from him.  

We went to the raffle. I met some interesting folks there. Verideth's brother, Aerimor was there, with his female friend Alatriel. She makes so beautiful dresses! I've been exchanging goods with her lately to help her make rings and magical items.  

The auction was long and poor Verideth was initially upset because he did not win anything while others won several prizes. He then realized he was helping a good cause and he had peace.  I got a door prize, some gaunlets that will help me hide. These will come handy when hiding away in the woods.  I need to adjust them because they are a bit big for my hands now. I will see if I can find someone to adjust them for me... perhaps Alatriel can do that if I ask her, since she's good at making alterations.  Aerimor is also a good tailor from what I undestand. Maybe he can help as well.

The other day I was heading out to Silkwood caves to get some copper and I found something very interesting. A boy was fighting the deadly vines by Krandor. I stopped and watched to see if it was a trap. The boy seemed to handle these vines very well and he was very skilled.  Suddenly, Jharl, another bard that I met on the raffle who was serving drinks and also took over the raffle machine by the end of the evening.  He fought these vines and all of a sudden, he was surrounded by ogres. I quickly moved and helped him with my bow, but he did not seem to even sweat as he defeated all ogres and helped the boy get away from the deadly vines.

I approached Jharl and greeted him.  We moved to a safer area, where he told me an amazing story of how the Foundation was started. He i-s quite knowledgeable on the history of this place.  I complimented him on his song and he mentioned that Katrin can also sing well. As a bard, I feel we all relate to others who use music to help others.   I look forward to see him in battle using his skills as Flynn did that one time when he scared all the enemies as they ran away.  

Jharl offered a gift. He handed a gauntlet that helps me learn more spells. I am so grateful to him. He only asked in exchange that I bring any donations to the Foundation. I know I will. His kindness touched me and made me realize that helping others comes in different ways. This is one way to help others grow and learn new skills as well, so I will definitely stop by the Foundation and do what I can for them.  Doing as much as we can is also part of living life to the fullest. I will continue doing so.

Be well.

[Leshariel]

New beginnings, new attitude toward life.  I've changed my widow's clothes and started again. Life has a new meaning now. I have decided to continue learning to use my song to help others in battle. I have been practicing... making it stronger.

I ran into Keppli Quickhands today and helped her do some mining with copper. She had never tried it and she was happy to work on it. I showed her how I run into the Silkwood caves and run into Hlint to smelt the copper and quickly run back into the caves for more if I need more ingots.

I also ran into Ben Poetr today. Nice human. He gave me some materials to help him craft. He seems to need arrowheads and I needed to practice my crafting, so he gave me the materials so that I helped him make some arrowheads.  

His looks, kind words and kind gestures show some interest on me. Perhaps he has seen that elves are not as bad as he thought they could be. I hope my attitude can show him that there's good in our kind. War is over, no need to pick enemies on the way.  I hope that he can find happiness again and his confusion goes away. His love for his wife and babies will become stronger as he finds happiness on the small things that he and only he will find fullfilling. I can only hope he does... a kind human is worth sharing with and keeping as a friend.

As of me, my heart is happy again. I've found comfort in Verideth and his affection. He gave me a flower the other day and looks after me. I enjoy his company more and more and long for a close friendship. Is it wrong to ask for even more? I'm not sure where he stands on this, so I'll just continue seeking his company and helping him in any mining ventures he goes for.

He makes me feel alive once more.  His eyes show some spark when I speak to him. His smile shines bright when I hold his hand and squeeze it tight. Time stops when I see him for the first time after a few days. Don't know what to do but smile at him and greet him warmly.  He's been cautious I guess. He might think it's too soon to get together with someone who lost her beloved so recently. Wise, smart and well mannered.  That's like him.

[Leshariel]

Well.... I was right. He just needed a sign.

I changed my widow clothes for my old ones. I feel refreshed, renewed, more energized and alive.  Even my crafting is coming along much beautiful. I made a few more copper harps and some hickory short bows.  I managed to create a longbow, and it's very well crafted. It handles well in battle.  Perhaps I can donate it to the foundation.  I know they can put it to good use.

Verideth surprised me last week with a hug... he told me that I looked much better. My grief was gone and my face look brigther. He is right, I feel much more alive inside.  He asked me for company as he went north to Hlint. A bright spark on his eyes made him seem unusual.  I went with him as he teaches me about nature and his love for the land and I enjoy his company.

On the way, as we reached the forrest, he pulled me closer to him and tried to kiss me but pulled away.  He noticed my fast heartbeat and then kissed me gently.  We shared our hearts and confessed that we long for each other's company.  He sensed it but needed a sign.  As he held me close, he whispered to my ear "I will never leave you..." I felt his voice a bit broken, almost like his loss was hard on him, just like mine was.  I know each other's company is going to be good out in the woods or in those unknown lands where the enemies attack. I'm still hesitant because others might think it's too soon for me to find love again, but I think that love can fuel your spirit and I would rather fuel it with love than with hate.

I ran into Aerimor the other day and he helped me gather oak.  I broke many branches, but managed to create a few saw dust bags that I turned into sandpaper, which I'll use to make more bows later.  He asked me to not hurt the land with my axe.  I'm a bit confused by that.  I'm not sure what is hurting the land and what isn't.  Is making a fire harmful?  Is mining for metals the same? I need to talk more with him about this. Perhaps Verideth can share his wisdom on this.

Today, I was in Port Hempstead and met an interesting half elf, Mykah. He was new to town and I helped him with some items he needed to sell. I also showed him the Silkwood Forrest, where I usually go mining for copper and gather silk for my instruments and bows. We went to the goblin caves for salt and before we headed in, we ran into two interesting new faces Marcus and Melissa. They seemed to enjoy each other's company and seemed so happy! Tod Fellow was there too and he helped us with some unwanted goblin attacks.  He has become very skillful in battle.

Unfortunately, on the way in, Mykah perished. Tod helped him pray on his grave so that his sorrow would be lifted. I had to run some more errands, so I left but I might catch up to Mykah at some other time to see how it went.

As of my song, I'm practicing more and more to make it stronger. I've been developing techniques to reach all the groups I travel with and make them more powerful in battle.  I long for the day when it will be so powerful that my enemies will have to run away or perish in battle.

[Leshariel]

Quite a few eventful days these have been!  I went with a group of scouts that were called to help find out about some disappearances in the Dragon Isles. We found out that a woman in the shape of a medussa was behind it and she was turning people into stone to collect them. A few of us were defeated, including Verideth. Thankfully, a cleric was among us and help in those matters.  It hurt so much to see him defeated... reminded me of my past.  *pauses for a moment and drops the pen*

I sang as loud as I could when we found enemy creatures and against the woman herself. I sent my celestial wolf to help in battle.  We fought and we won.  We returned and gave the general the report of what happened with the dissapearances.

A few days later, I was going outside the city with Verideth and we found his brother Aerimor. Their conversation got heated as Aerimor accussed his brother of supporting deforestation.  Alatriel also got into the discussion, accusing Verideth of bossing others around and forcing his beliefs into others. I felt sorry for the two brothers and hoped for a quick resolution. Thankfully, they talked shortly after that and ammended their misunderstanding.  Aerimor later joined us to go to the gnoll mines. I felt an eerie feeling as I remembered what happened in that place *looks sad*.

We met a very interesting character, Sam. While it was amusing to go with her to the caves, at the very end, she questioned why I had a dust of one of the gods, the god of trickery. I just had found it on one of the creatures we fought.  I explained to her that I don't really associate or worship any gods but she kept insisting that if I was in possesion of that dust, I could be associated with him. I explained that I just found the dust on one of the creatures and didn't know what it was until I examined it, so it annoys me that just because I found it I am then linked to that god. Why can't others avoid forcing their worshiping preferences? Why they have to force them into others?

I went back to the gnoll mines with Verideth. We wanted to see if we could get in all the way and mine for iron. They have it so guarded! I can imagine how Stone felt when he perished there, because I did too. A group of gnolls ambushed me and I couldn't run away. Verideth tried to help but they ran into him too and he had to run to safety. Evil gnolls! It makes me angry to know that such evil exists and it's so close to where I was born.

[Leshariel]

Sadness and fear fill my heart today. I fear the worst with Verideth's brother, Aerimor.  He killed Jaelle and hurt Elohanna on a rage episode. He is not himself. His shape shifting must be taking over.

It was quite an eventfull day, that's for sure. I ran into Verideth and he asked me if I could keep him company to get zaphire on some caves to the north.  We sailed and found ourselves in a very cold place.  I followed Verideth, since he knew where we were going. It was an unknown place to me. I had been in town before... Krashin I recall, but hadn't ventured to the mines.

After being sucessful in the caves, and sneaking past some goblin riders that looked threatening, we made it out of there safe. I am so happy to be able to help Verideth as I learn more strategies on defeating or even fooling enemies and get away unharmed.  He has the ability to disappear on sight, so he lets enemies chase him and then disappears right on their eyes. By then, the enemies, who could be guarding a door or a safe passage, are out of their guard, and we sneaked past them. *laughs*

As we headed to the city, we found Alatriel. She seemed distant... she didn't make much sense. She cried as she told me about her miscarriage. I was shocked... didn't know how to respond to that. I comforted her and sat by her side. She began talking about killing a werewolf and a child called Zair? She kept saying something about saving the child by killing the werewolf. I offered to get some silver, as per her request, and let her get some rest.

As Verideth and I headed out, in Port Hempstead fields we found a terrible picture. Jalle was dead, Elohana was there too with a few others, and Aerimor's grave by the road. As we gathered some information, we found out that Aerimor was angry and attacked in blindness Jaelle and a few others. Elohanna intervened and ended up killing him. What a horrific situation!

Verideth was upset... perhaps concerned about his brother, while knowing this was just wrong. He asked Alatriel where he bound his soul last, and we headed to Hlint. I ran after him to help him any way I could.  

At Hlint, we asked anyone if they saw someone come from the direction where the binding stone was. Verideth didn't find anyone, while I got a few leads.  I told Verideth what I knew and we headed out East to where we were told. Verideth assumed animal shape and used his sense of smell to track the scent of his brother. We found him at Haven, in the shape of a feline.

I stayed back, scrared of what could happen, and I tried to hide myself in case Aerimor went angry again.  He was unresponsive, like dreaming with nightmares.  Verideth wanted to take him to a safe place, so he asked me to make them all invisible so that he could take him to a safe place easily without being chased.  I'm glad I could help. I could see the pain in Verideth's eyes. His own brother... *pauses for a moment* He wanted to find out what was going on to help his brother.  Verideth assumed a bear shape and carried his brother.

I left a note in Hlint.. as per Verideth's request, which said "FIND VERIDETH".  He asked me to write it and leave it in a door at Hlint.  I'm not sure who lived there, but I know he knew what he was doing.

We headed out to the south.  In Blackford castle, I lost track of them. I couldn't see them or track their steps.  They went in, but I lost them. I played my mandolin to calm my nerves... I know Verideth will do the rigth thing.

While in the castle, Alatriel and Silvia found me. I was surprised that they found me there. I asked them and Alatriel explained that she was on the way to where she thought Aerimor would head... their home. I didn't know what to say... I didn't even know where they went.  Alatriel asked where they were. I looked at her eyes and couldn't see if there was anger or love for him. Same with Silvia.  Would she hurt him? Would she protect him?  I kept silent and continued to play my instrument. They left and searched for them.  I just hope Verideth can help his brother come back to himself and leave the darkness that took over his mind.

Interesting note about Silvia... I ventured out recently with her on a group and she mentioned she doesn't sing anymore. Interesting... being a bard myself, I wouldn't think of not using my song to help in battle or defeat enemies. I also know of skalds who do sing, like Flynn.  So I wonder if it's because of her skald influences that she doesn't sing or if it could be for something else.  

Speakign of Flynn, I saw him singing the other day on the barns as we talked to a lady who threw fire at us because someone broke the sculpture on fire that she had on the front yard.

After this incident, I went with Caerwyn to a barn and tried to help a farmer with Rose, his ox.  Rose seemed sick, and we tried to help but couldn't.  I wonder if that could be related to the incident of the fire outside.  Could it be some evil involved?

[Leshariel]

I recently ran into Silvia, an experienced fighter and skald. She spoke of how becoming a skald changed her life, loosing friends and family and making her anger even stronger and more powerful in battle.  I felt a connection, I related to her words, since my anger has also been a challenge lately to control. Silvia took me to the fields and showed me how she deals with the enemies and makes them fear.  It was so intriguing to see how she would make them fear so much that they couldn't even move.

As I continued doing some crafting and running out for materials to work with, I ran across Jil. I've heard about her arcane archer abilities and she explained how she used her abilities in battle. Her words openes my eyes to a world I had seen before but long forgotten. I am intrigued by these abilities... perhaps some day I can learn from her and make my bow even a stronger weapon in battle, along with my voice.

Days later, I learned a new spell to make enemies fear.  I tried using it and screamed to a few goblins as loud as I could, but I ended up scared at the sound of my own voice. I experienced what they experience, a fear beyond words, almost blindness, that impairs every movement.  My wolf helped me be safe from the goblins that were attacking us and I ended up unharmed.  I need to channel my anger better to make this weapon even stronger.

I ran into Silvia and asked her about this ability. She explained to me that I need to learn to channel my pain, anger and negative feelings into a fearful scream that will make it stronger and powerful for the enemies. She took me to the fields and showed me how she was trained herself into becoming a skald.  She made me scream as loud as I could, she taught me how to make the anger even stronger. Her methods can be a bit questionable to anyone who might not understand, since she just kept making me angrier every time by making me see how powerless I seemed infront of the enemies that defeated my husband. She took me right there, to the gnoll mines so that I could feel the enemies even closer, face to face. I cried, I got angrier as my body struggled with my mind. I needed rest, I couldn't rest, all that mattered was to run into the enemies and channel that anger towards them and shout. I used my sword and slashed them open in anger, as I screamed and made feel what is like to feel pain... I kicked their dead bodies, ran into a frenzy as I felt my anger grow and the need to release it as I screamed at them.. and made them pay for their evil doings.

As I venture this new world, I realize that I'm becoming stronger. I can feel my song getting stronger, which will help friends in battle, while my shouts are also getting stronger and will make enemies fear and run away. I wish to continue this path and become even stronger to help others in battle and make enemies weaker as they come attack. If they wish to feel pain by attacking me, they will have it...

[Leshariel]

I have been crafting lately with very much success.  I made a few bronze arrows and some hickory instruments for bards, including a guitar and a mandolin. They were real beauties... their tunes filled up the crafting hall as I tuned them tested them with a quick song. *smiles*  I managed to make a few oak chimes too. I'm happy to keep improving my skills and ability to work with wood.  Before, I would just break the oak branches so easily, but now I can follow the grain well and I look forward to continue crafting with oak to make more bows as well as beautiful musical instruments.

I ran into Pristine and Wolflover, this last one druid.  I was looking for hickory when they surprised me with their prescence at the kobold camp outside Port Hempstead.  Pristine's abilities have been improving very much. I'm still in awe with the beauty of such a unique race and the agility and the strength that they have.  

Shortly after meeting them, Silvia showed up. I greeted her courteously and pretended to stun her with fear by accident... she deserved it for all that harsh words she said during our last meeting, which made me very angry toward her.  I pretended that it was an accident, but she knew... Once she came out of the spell, she cast fear on me... *laughs loud* I didn't see that coming.   I know now she's revengeful.  I had to run away to run some errands, but I'm sure she would have done more if I would have run out to the fields with her.  We'll see. *grins*

Running out of the crafting hall, I ran into a sick dwarf, laying on the gound on the city. I went to see what was going on with him, and apparently he had been fighting the skeletons in Vehl and fell sick from it.  As I asked him what was going on, a female approached us.  She pretended to search his bags to find some information on what could be making him sick and then I realized she was stealing his true.  As she tried to run away, I told her to stop and return his coin but she disappeared.  Filthy rouge thief!  I tried to help the dwarf but he couldn't even stand up and I couldn't drag him to the healer either. I tried to cast a healing spell on him but didn't work.  I couldn't stop thinking of that thief rouge...  shortly after that, Steel showed up and he helped drag him to the healer to make him feel better.  

As I continued running some errands, I ran into that rouge thief again while I was invisible, and wanted to stun her with fear to collect what didn't belong to her, but once more, she disappeared and ran away.  I'll keep my eye on her.  Her actions have told me of her evil nature and now she's made an enemy.

[Leshariel]

I ran into that female thief again... this time she changed her clothes so that she wasn't recognized. She kept hiding her face but I recognized her... the way she moved, her voice, her scent. It was her. She approached me and a group on Port Hempstead and pretended that she was a good person, innocent even and tried to make it look like I was accussing her falsely.  When I confronted her again, she pretended that she didn't know what I was talking about. She even tried to talk me down calling me a rich girl *laughs*. Only an ignorant thief could make that assumption and consider that an insult.  *laughs and shakes head* She confessed she was drinking, so I truly hope that she remembers my warning. I approached her, looked straight into her eyes as I approached her and face to face warned her to stay away from me or my friends because if I ever catch her stealing from me or any of my friends, she'll know a dark side of me that only enemies on the field have come to know.