Jillian Stuart - A Journal

[Alazira]

//Not actually posted in her journal.. just an entry of rp.

Sleep was sporadic. If there was any sleep at all. The accommodations were outstanding, the bed very comfortable, belly full of good food, quiet surroundings, dark except for the faint glow peeking under the door from the room across the hall, and by all accounts he was tired. But no sleep.
Instead his mind was reeling from the day's events. Did he have a good time? The best he could remember in quite some time. There were the awkward moments to be sure. There were a few queries regarding his intentions toward Jillian. One young man bluntly asked him if he was sleeping with his aunt. How do you respond to such a question? All he could say to the young man was that such matters were never discussed by a gentleman. He then asked the youngster his own question. Did he trust his aunt's judgment? He, of course, said he did and to that he replied. "Then trust her now." That seemed to mollify the inquisitor, somewhat at least, but he was sure the young man was there on someone else's bidding and wondered if it would it do the same for them. No matter. It was a good day. The best.
Still no sleep. It seemed like the long night would never end but finally he heard the telling signs of bustling from outside and when they didn't subside he took it as an opportunity to forego the failed attempt at sleep.
As he made his way from the room the first thing he noticed was that the room across the hall no longer emitted light and that the noises were coming from the main room. Abygale was bustling about making ready to start her day. He didn't want to startle her so he pretended to yawn and stretch.
(Abygale-spins about) "Oh It's you Riley. I'm so sorry I awoke you."
(Riley) "You didn't wake me Mrs. Stuart. I was already awake. Waited for someone else to make an appearance before I made mine."
(Abygale -- rolls her eyes) "You know young man you should leave the untruths to others of a more devious nature. You're a terrible liar. Why don't you just say you couldn't sleep? Come on now. Say it."
(Riley)"Okay Mrs. Stuart. -- softly clears throat - I could not sleep. Not a wink."
(Abygale-sporting a faint smile)"Really. Problem with the bed?"
(Riley) "No Mrs. Stuart the bed was fine."
(Aygale) "Then what? Oh my goodness. It wasn't indigestion was it?"
(Riley) "Oh no! Nothing like that. Far from it. -- puts on a smile - And I guess I better tell you before you pry it from me. Huh? Well....."
Abygale holds a hand up halting Riley in mid sentence, wipes her hands on her apron and pulls up two chairs and sits and motions Riley to sit in the other.
(Abygale)"You know It didn't take me very long to figure out you were an intelligent man. Please continue."
(Riley)"Ahhh. Well, it's yesterday. It was a fantastic day. It's been awhile since I had one of those."
(Abygale) "So a fantastic day causes you not to sleep? Why, do you think, is that? And remember you're a terrible liar."
(Riley-sighs) "Mrs. Stuart it's really about Jillian. I've told her all I know about me. At least I think I have --quizzical look by Aygale -- and she has reciprocated in kind. She has brought me here. Here to meet her family. An experience I shall always hold as one of, if not, the best I've ever had . -pauses"
(Abygale) "Please continue."
(Riley) "Ahh..... Well, she asked me once why had I picked her. You know, picked her to -- voice breaks just a bit -- court? -- Abygale turns her head to hide a smile and waves her hand for Riley to continue - Well --seems more confident as he continues to speak -- I told her that from the very first time I met her I felt different. Later I figured out what that was, and is. When I'm with Jillian Mrs. Stuart I...Well I feel complete. Like I told your husband last night I'm a better person for knowing your daughter. I know it may sound silly but those are the best words I can use. And yesterday, seeing how happy she was, I made up my mind I want to be that happy with her. Always. Problem is that I don't know how rapidly, or where, to go from here. We both agreed to see each other and to move at a measured pace. You know, let things develop as they will. But ....."
(Abygale -- holds up her hand for Riley to stop) " But you would like it to move a little faster. Riley, it's not silly and she is happy when she is here . But never so happy as I witnessed last eve. You are good for each other and Richard and I are happy for both of you . But you are right to worry about pressing her. She's her own woman and will not be pushed. But I don't think you have to really worry to much about that. You are both smart so it's best to trust your feelings and her instincts. --Rubs her hands together- And as much as I like talking to you about my Rose it doesn't help me get breakfast ready. Now. Don't think you get off free here and last night's fixing of the pump doesn't pave your way to this morning's meal. I need wood for the fire. You'll find it just beyond where you fixed the pump. Now off with you. I've work to do."
When he returns he finds Jillian helping her mom with the morning preparations. They exchange smiles and his heart beats just a bit faster. He places the wood where instructed by Jillian and then helps her set the table. Not long and Rick makes his way into the house. It's obvious he has been out working all morning. Easy to see where Jillian gets her work ethic. Good conversation and a hearty meal. It would be nice to stay.
But Jillian knows that can't be. Can't stay too long lest place her family in peril. A day here and there spaced out shouldn't bring attention to her family, but she dare not stay multiple days. Not yet anyway. They say their farewells and after the hugs and tears he hears from Abygale as they leave.
(Abygale --to Jillian as she jerks her head toward Riley) "Now you remember what I told you."
(Jillian --sighs) "Mother!! Okay. Okay"
They make their way to the docks and pay their way onto an outbound ship. It's going to be a long trip. The weather is nice and the sea has a slow roll. They find an out of the way corner and watch as the ship's crew makes their way about the deck making lines fast and unfurling sails. Jillian turns to Riley to ask how he liked the visit. She finds him fast asleep, still holding her hand. He didn't have to answer. She already knew. So she snuggles up against him and rests her head against his shoulder and joins him in welcome slumber. For you see, she didn't sleep a wink either.

//Originally written by Riley's player

[Alazira]

Upon arriving back in Mariner's Hold from the incident with the Corath acolyte, we discovered that the other half of the unit had not made it back yet.  After a few days of waiting, Beacon Stenson left to track them alone (by leaving in the middle of hte night).  I had intended tracking them, but was giving them a few days to make it back.

We followed the trail, which led us to undead.  Fairly powerful, zombie type undead.  As we fought thru them and followed the general feeling of evil, we found blood and weapons of the other Beacons.  We continued to follow the trail or weapons, blood, and evil gut feelings to a hidden Corathite temple.  It was filled with zealot Corathites.  One escaped through a portal, but for the most part, we emptied a Corathite temple one dead body at a time.  We were lucky enough to arrive in time to save Beacon Stenson and 4 others.  However, the Captain and the rest of the squad perished.  The Beacons we helped looked astonished that I made it in to them safely.  You could practically watch the respect for me grow on their faces.  I am under no disallusion that I am a better fighter than any who perished.  I simply do what Toran has always had me do, I pick my friends well and ask for help when it is needed.  This time, it was with Riley and Richard's help that I was able to get to them in time.

[Alazira]

I said yes.  He asked me to marry him again and this time I said yes.  The more time we spend together, the happier I am.

[Alazira]

I recently spoke with aden Delaveth and took the following report:  *this same report is turned into her superiors at the Shining Hand.*

Aden stated that he and other adventurers were hried to guard "JC Merkinson" (which is highly suspected not to be his real name) and lead him to the "Great Elven Halls on Mistone."  They met the man known as Mr. Merkinson in the Wild Surge Inn in Hlint.

Mr. Merkinson reportidely has the ability to shrink living things practically down to pocket sized and then have them grow again later at his will.  Mr. Merkinson convinsed the adventurers that he needed to shrink a wyrm and take it for academic study.

Upon arriving, Mr. Merkinson shrunk a skeletal wyrm, put it in a box and killed any who opposed his leaving with it (and thus now owns his own pet travel sized skeletal wrym).

The only other notable thing Aden was able to add was that Mr. Merkinson had access to ancient lore.

Additional adventurers present:  Charlie Poetr, Katelyn Poetr, Ty Reid, Rogg, Melodius, Micus, Stiletto, Krym and one other unknown female.

[Alazira]

I spoke with Melodius Widgeweaver and she reported the following:  *again, this report is turned in to her superiors in the Shining Hand.*

She was in Krandor Crypts when she found a harp in a pile of old smashed bones.  She took the harp with her.  Shortly after that, she was attacked by skeletal bats.  After a few similar attacks, she went to the Rofirein's and asked their help.  They "wiggled their fingers" and told her the curse on her was taken care of.

After that, she was attacked by "walking deaders" and a "finger wiggling deader."  Upon asking her for a better description, her description fits that of a powerful group of zombie type undead, including a magic using of the same type.

At this point she gave the harp to Fluer.  Fluer took the harp "to be destroyed or examined."

More recently, a note was left on the front of the place she works (The Silver Buckle Inn) that stated that anyone associated with Melodious of the Inn would suffer.  The owner's fiance, a mage of some repute named Elohanna, found a curse attached to the Inn.

Miss Melodious states that the following people witnessed her problems:  Aynndel, Andrew William Reid, Riley Alexander, and Emwonk.

For clarity on timing, the original incident with the harp happened months before she was involved in the other report I filed about shrinking wryms.

Supplimental to this report is one of my own.  I was in the swamps by the ore hills when my party was attacked by undead.  Ty Rein (Andrew William Reid's son) immediately said that these undead reminded him of the undead that had been bothering Melodious.  

They did fit the description, including a powerful mage undead with them.  Those undead were handled by my party (Riley Alexander, Ty Reid Breanna and Lemont Blair).  These undead, both the fighters and mages, are fairly powerful.  The mage is capable of casting what I'm told is called a "Hellball."

These undead are, in my opinion, the same type of undead we faced on Alindors.  Recently, when we lost Captain Percival.  I cannot be certain the source is the same, but the strength and type are the same in my opinion, as well as the opinion of Paladin Alexander's (as he saw both sets).

I will continue to look into the matter.   However, I recommend additional eyes and ears on the matter.  If both or all three incidents are related, then the Corathites are gaining power and need to be dealt with.  

I would appreciate a read-in on any oher reports that have been filed with similar circumstances.

[Alazira]

//not actually written in her journal, just an entry of rp written by Riley

The Asking

He had decided. No, that was it. He was going. He had the time and he had the need. It was time to inform Jillian's parents that he had asked her and she had accepted. And they had to hear it from him. It was time to formally ask Jillian's father's permission to marry his little girl. It's the proper and respectable thing to do. So he collected his kit and set off to let Jillian know he was heading to Huangjin. To see her parents. To formally ask for her hand. And would she please go with him.
(Jillian) "Huangjin? Now? For what?"
(Riley-smiles and takes her hands and draws her into an embrace) "Yes Huangjin. Yes now. And you know for what. After all it was you who told me that I was the one to tell them. Did you not? And we can't get married until it's done. Properly. And besides I think your family would appreciate the earliest notice. Matter of fact I'm sure of it.
(Jillian-buries her head into his chest and puts on a nervous smile) "Ah.. Yes. Yes I remember telling you. But now!? I've so much work. New students........ I'm very busy."
(Riley) "Love. When aren't you busy? Besides I've talked to the Commander about this already. She knows the truth of this task and she's indicated that the students will be fine without you for a short time. For a few days only. That's all. Just a few days. The voyage over. I do what I must. And the voyage back . But.."
(Jillian- leans back) "But what!? Out with it."
(Riley-Kisses her brow and smiles down at her) "But ... Once my work is done you know yours is just beginning. I cannot guarantee the length of stay after my task is complete. Then it's up to you to extricate yourself. I'm sure your mother, sisters, and who knows who will have a thousand questions for you. A thousand plans will emerge. Obviously we can't stay for very long. But still, it will be an issue."
(Jillian-buries her face in his chest again) "I know... Believe me I know. *sighs* Okay. Sounds as if you are set on this. When do we go?"
(Riley -- lets her go and steps back) "I've already booked passage. For both of us .... leaving tomorrow on the morning tide."
(Jillian-jaw drops) "Tomorrow!? I can't possibly be ready by .... *stops. Puts her hands up and takes a deep breath and exhales a long sigh and smiles* Right. Tomorrow."

The trip over was uneventful. Unless you counted Jillian's attempts to try and get Riley to stop the almost constant pacing of the decks as he rehearsed, and continually changed, what he hoped would be the sequence of events leading up to and including his asking permission. Finally she realized it was a lost cause. As soon as she was able to get him to settle it only served as a transitory phase to the next new version of the speech, or statement, or.... whatever. It had countless beginnings, middles, and ends. It never took form or flow. It was a ramble. Poor Riley. But hey! It was his idea. His timing. His insistence. But it was fast becoming Jillian's headache. She could envision Riley performing this disjointed attempt before her mother and father and they thinking who knows what. But... She couldn't say anything. Didn't want to say anything. The die was cast. Knowing this made her laugh inside but it didn't help the pounding in her head.
She awoke to the sound of the ship making ready to pull in to port. The ship's precision maneuvers at the hands of the captain, the passing of the lines and the adherence to orders by the crew were impressive to say the least. Of course she had witnessed this many times and for each time she always had the same reaction. But this morning was the prelude to an even bigger day. And Riley was nowhere to be found. She had looked everywhere. Above decks, below decks, the hold. He couldn't be found. My goodness. He didn't jump a long boat and go ahead without her. Surely not. And if he did ..... Well. He had just better not. That's all. She must have looked nervous ... or angry, enough to warrant the attention of one of the sailors. A grizzled and rough first mate sees her and ambled over.
(Sailor) "Hey der missy Jillian. Lookin fer yer frien?"
(Jillian - hesitatingly) "Yes. *then in a sterner voice* He didn't leave did he? And how do you know my name?"
(Sailor -- laughing) "Him leave. An leave you? Missy Jillian you is all I been hearing bout. All night. No he din left. He had to get buv it all he said."
And with that the old sailor jerked his thumb back to the main mast and skyward.
(Sailor) "Fool been up der since da sun come up."
Jillian rushes back to the mast and looks up. But no Riley. Was the old man toying with her? No..he wouldn't do that so she looks again and again but no Riley. She looks to the old sailor with this look of "Well! Where is he?" He chortles and waves her to him and points. She looks along his arm and finally sees him. He wasn't on the mast! He was far out at the end of the highest yardarm just sitting there dangling his legs below and leaning back into the rigging with his eyes clo ... is he sleeping!? By all that is holy if he falls he'll be killed. And if the fall doesn't she would for putting her through such an ordeal.
Riley paced all day. Words came and went. Some sounded good. Most did not. Problem was that the good sounding words never came in bunches. Jillian tried her best to put him at ease but the lack of clarity and conviction in his message troubled him. So he paced. After a while Jillian left him to his own and shortly after sunset she came and gave him a reassuring smile and a kiss on the cheek before retiring to her cabin for the evening. The pacing continued. So many words which individually passed the test but when strung together lost focus. When he wasn't trying to put together words he would talk to the sailors on duty. HA! Talk with the sailors. There was no talking with the sailors. It was more an exercise of him talking and them listening and nodding. And each time the topic of his talking would be Jillian. By the nights end they may not have known all about Jillian but they knew her name and that he loved her unconditionally.

Star time. That time in the evening and morning when it's not quite light, but not dark either. That time when ship's navigators and captains have a singular purpose. Break out the sextant and affix the ship's position by finding certain stars bright enough to be, and still be, seen. Their task is clear and certain. Then after expertise and finesse, the position is fixed. This morning was no different. They both came out and shot star lines. Were both confident in their results. But on this morning the Captain didn't follow the navigator below to verify the calculations. Instead he looked over to Riley. He'd been watching him the whole voyage. It was obvious the young man had heavy issues weighing on his mind. He thought, "Perhaps. Just perhaps he might be able to help. "
(Captain)"Hey der lad. I could'n help but notice ye ave a problem. Mebe I can help. Tis ... ah kinda mah job being the Cap'n an all."
(Riley --startled)"Oh! Sorry sir. I wasn't paying attention. "
(Captain) "At's what ah mean lad. Ye aren't paying attention. Ye aven't the whole trip. Ye got missy worried sick about ye and I'm a wundrin why ye aven't paid attention te her. Tis obvious she's sweet on ye. An ... Ah mean lad. Tis a voyage ere. Wit yer own cabin. Got her all by ye self an ye be puttin her off? Now lad iff'n that aint showing that a mans got issues. Then ah should be doing other line o' work I should. Now ... Ken ah help, or not?"
(Riley *sighs*)"Not sure anyone can help at this point."
(Captain *winks*) "Lemme give er a try lad. Cannae hurt. Can it?"
(Riley) "Right. It can't hurt. .... *deep breath* .... Okay. I've asked Jillian to marry me. She has accepted which makes me the happiest I've ever been. Ahhh. We are going to Huangjin and I'm going to tell her parents. Errr. Ask permission to marry her. And I don't know how to do it. The words are difficult."
(Captain *hiding a smile*) "Tis that all? *cough* Ah mean .. Aye. Quite the perdicumet . Now listen lad. Obvious ye hold dis lass to be dear te ye. Half me crew knows dis cause ye told em. *smiles* Ye aven't any problem talking to me crew bout her. Te perfect strangers ye open yer soul and spress yer feelings. But to her kin who ere bound te take ye in as one o' der own ye ave issues. Lad. Ye thinkin to much. Ye need te clear yer mind. What helps me is getting buv it all. Walk de riggin lad. Find ye a place clean outa de way and clear yer mind. Asides. I need ye to vacate the deck. Be busy soon an ye be in da way. Now off wit ye."
So that's what he did. The captain was right. He was thinking too much. Putting far too much pressure on himself for what should be a pleasurable event. It was peaceful aloft. Surprisingly quiet, considering the work being conducted below. Then the epiphany came. It didn't matter what he said. Just as long as he was sincere. The words would come, or not, at the appointed time. Just as long as he was sincere. With that realization he could relax. Still to excited about the upcoming events to sleep, but still, he could relax. So he closed his eyes and settled into the rigging behind him. Soon after he heard Jillian calling urgently from below. Was she was agitated with him being so high? Could be. He smiles and waves at her. Time to walk the rigging back down to her. Time to head into Huangjin.

She noticed something had changed. Riley effortlessly descended to the main deck, gathered her in his arms and passionately kissed her. Right there! Yes. It wasn't difficult to notice something had changed. However, at first, she didn't notice the applause and "Atta boys" coming from the crew as she was enveloped in a welcome dream. But when he released her her senses refocused and it was quite obvious they were standing in the middle of the deck with all eyes upon them. She felt her cheeks flush and with that Riley asked if she was ready. She nodded yes and so they were off.

He had to almost drag her along. For some reason she was slowing the pace. Far different from when she first brought him here. Then her feet flew at a skip as she described her childhood haunts. But not this time. She was nervous, he was at peace. The words would come, or not. Just be sincere.
It was early in the afternoon when they made it to the house. They arrived to a cacophony of happy children playing outside. Seems they had picked a good time for the visit. Yes. Good timing. The whole family. Yes. Good timing. Riley had to guide Jillian through the nieces and nephews now even more excited by the arrival their favorite aunt. But finally they made it to the door. Jillian turned and looked at Riley with that, "Do we have to?" look. To which he responded, "Yes. Yes love we do. Now in we go."
Jillian opened the door to her mother and one of her sisters bustling about the main room putting out place settings and putting up decorations. They both look up when the door opens and are taken by surprise to see Jillian and Riley standing in the doorway.
(Abygale- squeals ) "Jillian! Look Becka. It's Jillian and Riley. Jillian. How did you know!? Oh. No matter. You are here. You both are here. And that's all that counts. It's a girl!"
(Jillian *confused look*) "Mom? A girl?"
(Abygale) "Yes! Sandra? The new baby? It's a girl. Healthy. Has all her appendages. Has the cry of a banshee. We are so excited. Today is her unveiling. Surely you knew. Otherwise why would you be here? *Becka, Jillian's more observant sister, steps up behind her mom and cups her hand over her ear and whispers. Abygale looks past Jillian to Riley and her smile increases in size* Ohhh. Ahem. Riley. The men are out back. We've work to do here to prepare for the unveiling. Jillian you stay and help."
With that absolute instruction Riley smartly nods and makes his way to the back. Would be a wasted effort to try and say anything. He had learned that lesson last time. But inside he knew, he just knew, that Abygale and Jillian's sister knew why they were there. Was Jillian glowing? Was he? Oh well, how they knew was irrelevant. But they knew.

It was early in the afternoon when they made it to the house. They arrived to a cacophony of happy children playing outside. Seems they had picked a good time for the visit. Yes. Good timing. The whole family. Yes. Good timing. Riley had to guide Jillian through the nieces and nephews now even more excited by the arrival their favorite aunt. But finally they made it to the door. Jillian turned and looked at Riley with that, "Do we have to?" look. To which he responded, "Yes. Yes love we do. Now in we go."
Jillian opened the door to her mother and one of her sisters bustling about the main room putting out place settings and putting up decorations. They both look up when the door opens and are taken by surprise to see Jillian and Riley standing in the doorway.
(Abygale- squeals ) "Jillian! Look Becka. It's Jillian and Riley. Jillian. How did you know!? Oh. No matter. You are here. You both are here. And that's all that counts. It's a girl!"
(Jillian *confused look*) "Mom? A girl?"
(Abygale) "Yes! Sandra? The new baby? It's a girl. Healthy. Has all her appendages. Has the cry of a banshee. We are so excited. Today is her unveiling. Surely you knew. Otherwise why would you be here? *Becka, Jillian's more observant sister, steps up behind her mom and cups her hand over her ear and whispers. Abygale looks past Jillian to Riley and her smile increases in size* Ohhh. Ahem. Riley. The men are out back. We've work to do here to prepare for the unveiling. Jillian you stay and help."
With that absolute instruction Riley smartly nods and makes his way to the back. Would be a wasted effort to try and say anything. He had learned that lesson last time. But inside he knew, he just knew, that Abygale and Jillian's sister knew why they were there. Was Jillian glowing? Was he? Oh well, how they knew was irrelevant. But they knew.
Rick and his two sons in law were relaxing by the open fire pit that had a suckling pig skewered on the spit and roasting. It was being turned by the young man who had asked Riley the question about "Sleeping with his aunt." last they were here. Upon Riley's approach the men stood and they all exchanged greetings. He told Rick that Jillian was inside helping with the decorations and such. Riley congratulated the father of the new baby girl and commented on how the smell of the roast was wetting his appetite. Small talk ensued until, Jacob, the father of the new baby, mentioned that it was fortunate that the message got to Jillian in time for her to be here.
(Rick)"Never sent a message. Never know where she'll be. You know that. *to Riley* Not that I'm complaining, but how is it that you two are here? On this day? Coincidence?"
(Riley)"For this joyful day? Yes sir. It's just that. Coincidence. We, or I should say, I am here for another purpose."
(Rick *stands and the other two follow suit*)"Another purpose? And what might that be?"
(Riley *straightens*) "Well sir. I'd like to speak to.. *interrupted by the father of the new baby*"
(Jacob *grins*) "Dad... It's plain as the nose on his face. He's here to ask you if he can marry Jill. *slight laugh* Come on Sir Knight. That's it. Is it not?"
(Rick *doing his best to look serious*) "That true Riley? You here to ask for Jill? *notices that the young man turning the spit has stopped.* Jonathan! You burn that pig and your grandmother will have your hide. *the lad starts turning once again -- once more to Riley * Well!?"
(Riley *looks between the three men and once again straightens himself*)"Yes sir. True. But I'm here to do it properly. And.. And this doesn't seem proper ... right now.... Sir."

(Rick *puts down his drink and steps up to Riley*)"Then do it proper. *notices Riley looking at the other two* And don't mind them. They are family. Now do it proper."
(Riley *closes eyes just for a moment then opens them and shakes head yes*) "Very well sir. Mr. Stuart. I love your daughter and she loves me. I asked her to marry me and she said yes. But before any wedding takes place I needed to come here. To you and Mrs. Stuart to ask for her hand and blessing on our union. And so I am here. And I ask you for you and your wife's permission and blessing to marry Jillian. ... Sir."
(Rick *nodding his head steps back to Jacob and whispers something. Jacob nods and strides toward the house. Rick steps back up to Riley still nodding and now pursing his lips together pauses then throws his arms about Riley and places him in a rousing hug briefly then lets go and steps back*)"My boy. You have no idea how long I've waited to hear those words. They are music to my ears and sweet nectar for my soul. Son. The day you arrived here I knew you two were to wed. You are made for each other. Any fool can see that. And on this day of all days not only do we get to celebrate the coming out of our new grandchild but the marriage of my eldest. A grand day indeed. Oh good! And speaking of nectar. *Riley turns to see Jacob returning carrying a bottle* Riley. You know what this is? This is liquid ambrosia. I bought this the day Jillian was born. Did the same when Becka and Sandra were born. Those bottles are gone. This one remains. *smiles* But only for a short time eh? *Rick looks at the mugs they were using and frowns* These won't do. *hands the bottle to Riley and sets of to the house* I'll be right back."
Jacob and Michael step up to Riley, embrace him and welcome him to the family.
(Michael)"The ambrosia. A warning. Drink it quick like. *winks*"
(Jacob *grinning*) *Yea. Quick. We both went through this so take it from those who know. "
Riley nods and looks at the unmarked bottle. Bought it the day Jillian was born he said. He hears Rick returning from the house carrying four silver goblets. He steals glance at Jacob and Michael and he notices the slight look of shock and dismay. He smiles and shakes his head.
(Rick *as he's passing out the goblets*) "Here boys. A proper vessel for a proper drink."
Rick retrieves the bottle from Riley and takes his knife and pop's the stopper free. Smiles widely and pours a full measure of the liquid for each. Swirls the bottle about and exclaims that there's plenty left for the wedding day. Then he offers a toast. "That they always be happy, their children be healthy, and their trials be few." As they drink Riley feels the burning of the warm liquid running down his throat. "So that's why they said to be quick." He notices grimaces from the others, including Rick. He also notices the warmth spreading in his belly and the fragrance of the drink as it tickles and teases his senses. Then he raises the goblet to take just a sip. This truly is ambrosia. He closes his eyes, lays his head back, and breathes deeply to savor the amber liquid. Then sensing prying eyes slowly lowers his head and looks to his right. There in the door way stands Jillian. He looks at her and smiles still allowing the ambrosia to work its will. Then nods.

Jillian watched as Riley strode from the house. She wanted to be with him. To be there for support. But she knew better. She could not. Besides she was busy fending off Becka's and mothers questions. Sandra was not to be found. Obviously with the baby until the appointed time. She had been through this before. It was a big affair. A new baby into the family is a momentous event. And now Riley is here to ask permission to marry her? On this day? Thoughts of how this would be received eluded her. This was to be Sandra and Jacobs day to shine. Not hers. Had to put it out of her mind. Maybe Riley would put it off. Maybe? She worked in almost silence just nodding and saying "Hmm Hmm", "Yes" or "No" to the questions being put to her. It must be getting close to when Sandra would arrive. Please let her be here so that all eyes would be on her and the new one. So that the questions would revolve around subjects like , "What's her name?" or "Has she taken to feeding okay?" or "Ohhh she has such a head of hair. Did you have heart burn during your pregnancy?" Anything. Just stop Becka from asking these questions. Stop this hammer in my head. She hears the back entry open and heavy footsteps entering. It's Jacob. He has a stern look on his face as he crosses the room and whispers something to Abygale. Abygale stifles a gasp by placing both hands over her mouth. Wipes her hands off on her apron while stealing a side ways glance at Jillian and her sister, then leads Jacob to the pantry. After a short time she returns and continues to ready for the arrival of the baby with renewed vigor and a little extra spring in her step. Jacob must have left through the pantry's side door as she didn't see him but she heard him as she left. Becka's interest now turned to her mother. "Mother. What's happening?" No answer. "Mother!?" Still no answer. The door opens again. This time it's her father on a fast pace back to the bedroom. She hears the throwing open of a trunk and rummaging and remarks such as, "Blast! Where are they?" more rummaging and finally "AhA!". Rick emerges from the bedroom carrying a worn cloth sack that emits an audible "CLINKING" sound as he walks by. His focus was such that he never looks at Jillian. That's not like her father. Now she's worried. What's going on? She looks at Becka who looks confused. She looks at her mother who is standing by the table absent mindedly rubbing her hands on her apron. But she doesn't look confused at all. She looks happy. Not that mother wasn't happy but this was a look of total contentment. Of sheer relaxation. What the blazes is going on? She hurries to the back door and flings it open only to see her father, Jacob and Michael almost gagging and then there is Riley standing there holding a silver goblet to his lips. His head glides back for a moment and she can see his chest rise and fall slowly. Then he looks at her. Smiles and nods. She feels her mother's arms embrace her and then a whisper behind her. "Welcome to the fold Jillian Rose Stuart. .... Or should I say Alexander?" Then a gentle squeeze. The hammering in her head quickly fades but she knows that now her work was just beginning.

[Alazira]

He kissed me.  He as usual tried to mess it up and wanted to kiss me behind a house in Haven while people waited on us.  I however turned him down.  Later though, he did it right.  And it was wonderful!  I am so in love with Riley, I don't know how I ever thought that I might be in love with Lance.  The emotions are so very different.  I feel like an Ilsarian writing about love so much, but it is what is most in the front of my mind to write about.  Riley.  Always Riley (when it isn't Toran and my work with the Shining Hand).  I have to keep on target and make myself act like a normal person.  It feels silly to have most of what comes out of my mouth start with "Riley."  Maybe that will fade with time.  But for now, I am glad that noone gets to read this but me, or I'd feel rather silly.

What I have with Riley is so much more than I thought love could feel like though.  I've never felt this way before (even though I once thought I loved Lance).  Now I know why he was always so hung up on Ell, yet still felt something for me.  Had I known Riley then, I would have probably been the same way.  But youth taught it's lessons and now experience is teaching its.

I can't wait to officially be married and continue experiencing all the things that await me in married life.  I never thought I'd say those words.  I always sort of pictured me alone for life serving Toran and being thrilled about it.  But now, I can serve Toran, and not do it alone.  Riley never tries to stop me from doing my work, only asks if he can help.  I am lucky.

[Alazira]

I have been keeping busy.  It seems there are lots of reports of trouble lately.  The spot that I found most fulfilling and educative was the sand dunes in the desert.  In addition to snakes and walking sand, were ghosts.  It is the first time I came across something like them.  Our party was fairly large upon heading into the desert (five), but the magic using spirits were too much for the party.  We lost 2 and almost a third.  Riley and I did what we could, but it wasn't fast enough.  

In addition to making great company, Riley makes a good hunting partner.  I am able to handle more difficult reports with less likelihood of my death (though the soul mother did choose to visit me recently).  My only hesitancy on his hunting is that Ilsarians tend to follow him.

[Alazira]

Jillian stands next to Riley staring at the mall unassuming looking farm house and gulps, while fiddling with her dress.  "I know I'm a servant of Toran and not supposed to fear anything, but I fear that house."  Riley chuckles and pulls her into his arms to hug her.  "We don't have to go if you don't want to love."
(Jillian) "No.  We came all this way, we'll go in."  Jillian picks at her dress subconsciously.
(Riley) Jillian, love, why don't you put your leathers back on?  You'll feel more yourself and more secure."
(Jillian) "I want to look the part Riley.  They don't know me.  Ladies wear dresses.  I want them to know you are marrying a lady."  Riley squeezes her tighter.
(Riley) "Jill, they will love you.  I do.  Besides, you are a lady in rags, dresses or platemail."  Jillian squeezed him, then stepped away, took a deep breath, rolled her neck to the side and looked like she was getting ready for a fight.  Riley watched her antics and merely hid a smile behind his hand.  When she was finished, he took her hand and led her towards the house.
(Riley) "You look beautiful in that dress."  His voice was soft and filled with love as he said that and then kissed the top of her head.  Jill smirked.
(Jillian) "You'd say I looked beautiful if I stood here in a potato sack."  Riley nodded.
(Riley) "Aye.  I probably would, and would only be speaking the truth."  Time seemed to pass in snips for a bit.  First they were walking hand in hand, then up the path to the house and finally, Riley knocking on the front door.  It didn't take long and then the door was opened by a middle aged, dark haired, no non-sense kind of lady.  It was obvious at first, all the lady saw was Riley.  A wide, welcoming smile crossed her face as her eyes lit up with joy.  "Ben!"  And with that exclamation, Riley was no longer holding Jillian's hand, as Riley's hands were busy wrapping around the lady.  Ricley chuckled and accepted the hug and then set her back from him by her shoulders.
(Riley) "Mams, I'd like you to meet my fiance, Jillian Stuart."  He gestured to where Jillian stood beside him and draped an arm over her shoulders.  "Jillian, this is Sara, also known as Mams."  Jillian reached out a hand.
(Jillian) "Pleased to meet you ma'am."  Sara shook Jillian's hand and then looked to Riley.  
(Mams) "About time ye visited.  Haven't seen hide nor hair of ye since Zachary's weddin'."  Riley tried to speak and Mams just looked at Jillian.  "Come in then, so we kin get to know ye."  Jillian smiled and followed Sara into a modest, small, thatched house.  As small as it was though, it was neatly organized and clean, as if a mote of dust wouldn't dare get out of place in Mam's house.  Despite that, it felt cozy to Jillian.  Jillian sat where Mams indicated, which was luckily next to Riley.  Riley still had a pretty good death grip on her hand, as if he knew she needed it.  With her other hand, Jillian was fussing with her dress.  Riley broke the momentary silence.  "Where's Papa at?"
(Mam's) "He's in the barn.  Why don't ye go geet him?  He'll wanna meet yur fiance too.  Zachary should be out there too."  Riley obediently got up to follow Mam's instructions, stopping only to kiss the back of Jillian's hand for moral support.  Once Jillian and Mam's were alone, it took a few moments before either spoke.  "I'm guessin the most important question I have to know about you is simple.  Do ye love him?"  Jillian's eyes lit up.  
(Jillian) "That is also an easy one to answer.  Yes.  Yes, I love him."  Mam's nods and eyes her.
(Mams) "Ye accept his lifestyle?"  Jillian chuckles.
(Jillian) "Not only do I accept it, mine is almost harder to accept and he accepts mine."
(Mam's) Then gud luck to ye.  He's a special man who deserves the best."  The menfolk enter as Mam's says the last and Riley walks to Jillian and bends to kiss the top of her head before looking at Mams.
(Riley) "And I have got the best Mams."  The afternoon passed with questions from his family asking Jillian all manner of questions and Riley asking questions to get caught up with them.  By dinner time, Jillian was fairly certain Caleb (Papa) and Zachary liked her and Mams, if not like her, approved of her.  Over Mam's objections, Riley and Jillian slept in the barn.  The house was simly too small.  As was their habit, instead of sleeping separately as values demanded, or sleeping laying side by side (which values demanded against), they slept sitting against a wall, huddled together.  Riley objected at first saying it wasn't right, but as usual, he couldn't say no to Jillian.  They both woke with a crick in their neck, but happy to be near each other.  Jillian cleans up and dresses in her leathers.  Riley and she head hand in hand back to the main house.  Mam's sees them enter.  
(Mams) "Ye finally deciding to join us?  Still saying it ain't right you two sleeping in the barn together, but morning to you all the same."  Riley winces, but doesn't comment.  Jillian opens her mouth to begin the argument that they share much worse places than barns alone and that their own values is what has nothing happening, but just as her mouth opens to begin the argument, Riley squeezes her hand.  Jillian looks to him and sighs.  His eyes clearly asking her to behave and the moment passes.  They spend a happy day working to help Papa repair some thing that needed more hands to be done.  Much to Mam's despair, Jillian works side by side with the men.  Several times Caleb tries to convinse her that lifting heavy things isn't a ladies job, to which she simply, easily lifts whatever was in question.  
(Jillian) "Caleb sir.  I have spent my life in training.  I am very fit.  I train to run miles and miles in full plate armor, sword and shield.  Lifting this" she gestures to some rocks they are moving "Is merely another training exercise to keep me fit.  If it helps, think of it as a way to help me stay alive."  Caleb isn't thrilled, but he stops complaining about it.  A few hours later though, he brings her a straw hat and some aloe.  
(Caleb) "Ye nose, it is turnin pink lass."  Jillian smiles at him.
(Jillian) "Thank you Caleb."  Her smile seems to stun him a moment, before he speaks to Riley.  "How do ye get a thing done when she smiles at ye like that?"  Riley himself smiles.
(Riley) "by doing whatever it is she asks of you.  She is near impossible to say no to.
(Zachary) "He's spoiled ye, that one has."
(Jill) "He does, every chance he can."
(Zachary) "Don't ye be taken advantage of Ben."
(Jillian) "I try very hard not to."  Zachary nodes like he understands that.  By the time the second day is over, they've clear some land, fixed up the house and learned to get along.  Riley was applying Aloe to Jillian's burnt nose after dinner when Mam's came out of the kitchen carrying a decorated cake and singing happy birthday, headed straight for Riley.  The others joined in and Riley blushed.  Jillian watched, fascinated as he blew out the candles.  He looked directly at her when he did.  Knowing him, he probably used his wish to help her learn to duck.  Laughter, cake eating and present opening ensued.  Everyone was having a great time.  Mam's and Caleb had a new shirt made for him in blue.  The color of his eyes.
(Mams) "We weren't sure you'd show, but we were planning on mailing it if ye didn't."
Zachary and Prissy got him a new journal.  The journal was decorated (obviously by Prissy) and now had an ahnk covering the front of it.  On the front inside cover it said.  "To Ben.  Stay safe.  Visit often.  With love. Z&P"  They all turned to Jillian, except Riley, expecting her to have a present.  Jillian blushed.
(Jillian)  "I didn't know.  I didn't know it was his birthday."  The admitting of that, that she didn't know when her own fiance's birthday was, shocked her, but it obviously shocked his family more.  Riley tried to save it by standing and grabbing her hand.
(Riley) "She said yes, that is all the present I need."  But no one was buying it.  Plain and simple, they didn't understand how someone who loved their Ben could not know when his birthday was.  The evening ended shortly after that and was rather stilted.  Riley and Jillian walked quietly back to the barn.  Once inside, Riley spun Jillian into his arms and looked down into her eyes.
"They don't understand our life.  They don't understand how we are bound by more than passing frivolities like birthdays.  We are bound by more even that our love.  We are bound by our faith, our friendship and our understanding.  You may not know my birthday, but you know many other, more important things about me."
(Jillian) "We're leaving tomorrow and now your family surely thinks you deserve better."
(Riley) "You and I know better.  Besides, you aren't going anywhere.  They'll learn you make me happy.  Once they learn that, they'll have no choice but to love you."  Jillian fell asleep that night curled up in Riley's arms vowing to herself to be a better fiance.  She started making mental plans and decided she'd make a list of questions of things you should know about your fiance.  Riley woke the next morning to find Jillian was not in the barn.  He stepped outside and just watched as she did some practice sword work and footwork and practiced ducking while doing so.  This brought a smile to his face.  He joined her for her morning work out of push ups, sit ups, pull ups, etc. followed by a long job.  Neither said much, but the familiarity of doing it together was there.  Later that day, they said their goodbyes.  It was obvious his family still wasn't sure about her, but the more they saw Riley around her, the more they loosened up.  They said their goodbyes and headed for wherever Toran lead them.

[Alazira]

I saw Riley again.  We met by chance in Center.  He told me of William's fmly.  William is a student of mine.  he was visiting his family in Fort Llast and he came home to find the whoel family slaughtered.  one brother of his was able to be raised but the rest are gone.  Lance and Riley along with others, hlped William trak down he responsible parties.  All either saw trial and were executed or were dealt within thefield.  I worry for William.  He and I never see eye to eye aboutanything.  he has anger issues.  If he had anger issues prior to this, I fear for who he'll become with this tragedy.  We are nearing the end of the schooling, yet there is so much left to teach.  William needs more time ith Lance I think.  He seems to connect with him.  I have wondered if William dislikes me personally or females in charge.  I haven't seen him ih Daniella enough to know.  Either way, this won't be good for his phyche.  Toran help him.

After our talk in Center, we went t the desert.  It is one of my favored hunting spots thse days.  It allows m to fight undead and still challege myself to always learn and practice my fighting style.

I also find myself fighting undead up near Misted Village.  Riley sees how much a part of me fighting undead is, so he humors me and takes meplaces that I am sure to be able to do that.  I think he wrries that I get to involved in fighting hat I risk my health, but the truth is that Iknow what I am comfortable with and I als know that with him, he'll stop fightingto throw a potion on me, so why should I as well?

[Alazira]

I walked into a group a few days ago and couldn't believe what I was seeing and hearing.  This group of adventurers had met up with an undead bat that was self admittedly a liches familiar and were following its instructions to take magic items to the lich to make it more powerful.  That really was the story I got when I arrived.  Very few people even seemed to be bothered by this fact.  My only allies were Emwonk and Breanna.  Even Riley wouldn't trust me.  I had to distance myself from him because he was on board with the crazy plan.  I guess we have bigger differences in our values than I thought.  He kept telling me to trust him, but I know how mobs work.  If the mob thought the best plan was to give a lich the items, they would, without listening to reason and even just getting closer to the lich with the items it wants is crazy.

I thought seriously of killing the party.  It was the only way I could think to stop them from making the lich more powerful.  It wasn't long ago that I couldn't take a single innocent life, yet now I'm considering dozens.  I actually fear that if I thought I was capable of doing so, I might have tried that to prevent this lich from getting the items it wanted.

Most people just thought I was the crazy woman who wouldn't go along with the plan.  I don't understand how perfectly sane people think it is ok to talk to undead and do what they ask.  One of the first things I teach my students is that if an undead is talking, it is lying, manipulating or simply causing problems.  

When I saw the bat, I tried to kill it, but it wasn't killable.  At least Riley did try to aid me in that.  I wondered up until then how he would behave.  I just knew that I would die in the end of this, because there is no way that I could suffer a lich to live.  In the end, that outcome and thus Riley's choice didn't have to be made.

We came across some writings on the edge of remains, tombs.  The name one said aloud was one I had read about in my studying of undead.  It was the name of an ancient king named Amal Zul.  He was a king from before the bloodwar and the time of the dragons ruling the world.  He was viewed as a god by his people and they performed mummification rituals on both him and his servants to carry them into the afterlife (or this undead version of the afterlife).  A man named Arthenon raided the tomb and traded places with the king.  He is forever stuck in his half life, trapped in his tomb, until he performs a task and a ritual to undo the mummification performed.  He and his familiar were lured to the life or unlife as it were by greed and a lust for power.  Attacking him won't kill him (or his familiar as I had already learned).  To undo the mummification ritual, you have to gather his organs and put them back in and then resurrect him.  There was also a blurb in my readings about Zalagar Cinder was his nemesis and from the Pits and likely the task needing completed has something to do with him.

Once I knew the name and knew we were dealing with a lich, but another form of undead that can't be lain to rest without jumping through these hoops I was ok with jumping thru the hoops as it would be the only way to get rid of the undead for good.  So, through we went to get him from his sarcophagus.  When we did, he stated that his task to be completed before he could be lain to rest was to defeat Zalagar Cinder, who conveniently also had one of the organs that were needed.  It came down to a one on one battle between one of us and Zalagar.  I sucked up my pride and admitted I thought Riley a better fighter than myself and thus he was chosen as our fighter.  He won, and the portal Zalagar was trying to open here from the Pits was closed.  

I was worried about Riley when I had to make the choice.  To send him in where I knew I could take the risk was difficult, but I also knew it was what was best chance we had of closing the portal and keeping the army out of our plane.  It's one thing to fight side by side with someone you love, it's another to have to watch them do it alone.  It reminded me of the trials that Rofirein put Toran thru and having to watch Miss Daniella fight in a one on one combat for if not our world, our faith.

This whole trip was horrible.  I know Riley thinks I didn't trust him, but it's simply because I was raised, trained, and Toran called to deal with undead.  When dealing with undead, I believe my gut.  Talking to undead and doing their bidding is stupid and always will be.  The whole group doing it from the beginning was idiotic and they are extremely lucky it turned out not to really be a lich or they would all be dead and their magic items would have belonged to the lich.

People need to learn to not be so friendly with undead, to listen to the undead specialist when dealing with undead, or to generally not be idiotic.  Out of the more than a dozen people there, the only ones who were with me in it being a bad idea were two others, neither of which my fiance.  

I need to think on all of this.  I love Riley and the marriage is definitely still on, but I must say I was shocked when I arrived and heard he was on board with the plan.

[Alazira]

A bad time just gets worse.  I took Riley somewhere new to him and he fell to vampires.  I did as well, but the soul mother visited him.  I wish she had chosen me instead.  It made me think about Daniella.  She cries for Chaynce and I see that future for me as well.  Yet, I don't see a way around it, as Riley is part of my life now.

On the backside of that, Riley, Zakariem, SehKy and I went first to Misted Village, then to the Undead out that way.  I admit I was silent for a lot of the trip, but I still wasn't over the trip in the desert.  The desert trip reminded me of a time that the only one I could rely on was Toran.  To be fair, Miss Daniella as well.  It was a lonely time.  A time spent hunting crypts and doing things for the Shining Hand.  Most people don't like Toranites, but I long ago was over that.  I learned young that all you need is Toran.  My problem is, I went and fell in love and now I also need Riley.  Not need on the same level, but need all the same.  Riley now says he'd give up Keela and SehKy for me, yet that isn't what I want.  If I allowed him to give them up for me, he'd never forgive me, so I'd lose.  Ultimatums ca not be given, because the one giving it looses either way.

When he tried to silence me in the desert, I felt like he'd slapped me.  I can deal with a differing of opinions, but he tried to quiet me.  I felt more alone in that moment that I have since meeting him.  I know he feels bad, though maybe now what for, but bad that I am hurt all the same.  This whole thing is wrong because I shouldn't have to choose between my convictions and Riley.  I spoke with sehKy and basically told him that I would put aside my feelings and be civil to him because the alternative would be to hurt Riley.  Riley loves SehKy and Keela and seeing me at odds with them is killing him.  He keeps saying he'll chose me, but I wonder how much of him repeating that over and over is a reminder to himself that I am worth it.  

For the first time, instead of sleeping against a wall, he asked me to actually sleep next to him so that he could hold me.  I needed the connection.  I needed him, yet it is sad that our first time sleeping side by side has such a negative energy attached to it.  I wish I could get in his head.  He asked me to sleep in his arms and then sat up writing in his journal for a while until he thought I was asleep.  I write this now while he sleeps, so I should probably finish and crawl back into bed so he doesn't wake wondering where I am.

....

After a night's sleep in Riley's arms, it's obvious what I need to do.  I need to pretend to put this behind me until I really can.  I think Riley learned from this experience and we are unlikely to find ourselves in this predicament again.  In addition to that, I don't have it in me to hurt him anymore like this when I can prevent it so easily.  So, it's time to put my happy face on until I can really feel that happiness.  The soul mother visiting him taught me to value the time we have together.  So here goes for the happy face.

.....

Once he was asleep and forgot he was stressed due to sleep, laying in his arms was sublime.  No doubt he loves me.  He held me so tight.  He didn't want to let me go even in sleep.  Protecting me.

[Alazira]

A lot has happened since my last entry, even though it wasn't that long ago.  So we'll write chronologically.  First, Riley, SehKy, Keela, Micus and I were hunting undead and went a bit further than usual and ended up in ice spider land.  The spiders there are quick and lethal.  Keela, Riley, and I died.  Luckily, the soul mother passed everyone over.  However, it makes me nervous again.  I don't want to be like Daniella with Chaynce.  I'm going to make the wedding happen sooner.  So if the soul mother takes Riley, I will have every moment I can with him.  I think I might make it thru the wedding night without blushing the entirety of it now too.  *smiley face*  We've had a few kissing session.  Everything proper enough, but we are both getting more used to each other.  

Anyhow, after I died, I wasn't feeling so great so I stayed back while the rest went on.  They met up with Cillyna's ex, Alazira.  Riley came back talking of dresses and outfits.  He said clothes didn't matter, more the person inn them, but I bought a new dress all the same.  I didn't know for sure it was entirely proper.  It is a bit low cut, but Riley assures me that not only does it look good, but it was still proper for public.  Turns out part of the dress speak was him speaking of the wedding.  I think he is as anxious to move it along as I am.  

Commander Eagleheart put out a call to all with time to help the Shining Hand.  His idea was to make an auxiliary unit to help when we were short handed.  I showed of course, along with a long list of others.  Turns out we had another meat locker to deal with.  The situation reminded me a lot of when I joined the Shining Hand.  As the only Beacon present, the Commander asked me to lead the others.  They, if they want, will now be in that auxiliary group, because we simply don't have enough hands.  Anyhow, just like last time, we went, destroyed the undead, destroyed the thing creating the undead and returned back to Ft. Llast.  O yes, there is more to the story than that, but that is the short version of it.  And just like last time, I came back to the temple and was promoted.  It appears those rumors of me filling Captain Percival's roll after his death were true.  The Commander promoted me to Captain.  The honor is great, even if the position was gained thru a good man's death.  It'll be interesting to see how I interact with my men.  They are used to me among them, now I have to give them orders as well as fight alongside them.  

It seems my first task is Hector and William.  When Hector takes his Paladin oaths, he'll become a beacon under me.  If William can get his anger in check, he will as well.  I spoke with both after we made it back safely and the Commander left, and Hector seems to be in good spirits and seems to be working on his anger issues.  Either that or next to William, anything would look good.  William continues to insist that he does not dislike me, but he also didn't argue when I said I thought he just didn't handle women in charge well.  The death of his family is eating him alive, but he had anger issues before that.  He is the only student to ever make me lose my temper.  He needs help, but doesn't want it.  I told him to come see me if I could help.  Let's just say I won't leave the light on waiting for him.  I know Hector, who has lived thru the death of family, spoke with him.  However nothing is getting thru to him.  It seems to be worse since the Commander didn't give him an automatic pass into the Shining Hand when he takes his Paladin oaths.  His feelings are hurt, but it is simply because he has so much darkness in him that if he tried to fight darkness, he'd be consumed.  Despite it all, I think he is just a misguided young man.  

I need to find out what my duties entail with the new job.  This has been a near perfect week.  Being promoted and getting even closer with Riley.  Only downside I can think of is, what name do I use once I'm married?

Captain Stuart

[Alazira]

Busy Month at the Citadel

First Graduation Day.  Raelyn, Mari, Marin, Hector and William all officially graduated.  Each took their own paths and oaths, but we were all equally proud of them.  I suppose now that they have graduated, I have to break the habit of calling them "the kids".  I've seen or heard most of them taking advantage of not needing a chaperone anymore.  I'm glad they are learning their way.  Hopefully they learn their lessons without too many trips to the bindstone.  A second ceremony was held for Cormac not long after that.  He shocked us all by asking for an extension for joining the Toran ranks where he requested.  I guess we will see how that works out.

A paladin named Kian has been assigned to me.  He wishes to join the Shining Hand.  I took him to what I deem "the meeting room" in the Citadel and explained to him what was to be expected, how we were different, darker than normal paladins; how if you don't keep yourself grounded, you may just become the monster you were hunting.  He seemed to take what I had to say to heart.  I also had a few brief lessons with him.  Things that were either passed down to me or that I learned the hard way.  He again seemed to listen and learn.  I wish all my students were so obedient.  We've set up to have future lessons.  He seems to be good with women leaders, which is good as it is my division that is short on men at the moment.  Hector was officially named Beacon Bael at his graduation, maybe Kian will follow in his footsteps.

A few weeks later, it was finally time for Riley and I to marry.  My whole family made it since we held it in Huangjin.  I can't tell you how nice it was to have them there.  My dad walked me down the isle.  I remember commenting to him on how beautiful it all was as I first saw the room.  The Priests and I'm sure my mom were busy folks to make it look that nice.  It was something I'm not likely to ever forget.  But then my eyes found Riley.  He looked wonderful in his dress outfit.  It fit him, well.. perfectly.  He's come worlds since the fashion disaster he was when I met him.  From there on out it was repeat after me stuff, which come to think of, I ad libbed a bit.  Then Riley sang.  I swear I could strangle or hug whoever thought it a brilliant idea to have an Ilsarian raise Riley.  His singing was so an Ilsarian thing to do, yet also sweet.  A few off key notes, but who hears those at a time like that?  To be completely honest, I half wanted him to finish.. so that he'd kiss me.  That eventually did happen and we had our first kiss as husband and wife.  I could have let it go on forever, but thankfully he had some sense left in him.  Back down the isle we went and out came our guests.  First Keela brought us our wedding present.  Dozens of roses, but among them sat two emerald amulets that were set in what could only be termed a Toranite way.  It had Honor, Valor, etc. engraved on it, but it was also nothing short of lovely.  They even got a Priest in Llast to consecrate it for them.  Mom and Dad and the family came by.  But also theire was Samantha, Daniella, and her date Commander Eaglehart.  I wouldn't swear to it, but I think he approved me leave for the honeymoon.  I assured him that I would hold up business as usual and that the marriage wouldn't change that.  Jared showed up, he even stood as Riley's best man.  For propriety, I should probably call him Beacon Stenson, but to me he is my friend Jared.  He made it clear he wished it was him that was my bridgegroom and not Riley, but he made no scene.  It was humorous how everyone told Riley he better treat me right, but no one was worried on how I'd treat him.  After Jared was gone, the Stargazer clan was next.  I was so very happy to see Cillnya, Myla and Lance.  I understood Ell was there as well, but to be honest, I didn't see her.  Myla was her usual self.  In other words, she was pure trouble.  Luckily, that day her mayhem was directed at Cillnya.  I am happy with Riley, but seeing Myla reminded me of the old pain.  Leaving Lance's house when he married Elland thus spending less time with Myla, was one of the most difficult things I've ever done.  I view her as a daughter.  I helped raise her for over a decade and she doesn't really see it that way.  Ell is her mother. That cuts deep.  I didn' tlet it ruin my wedding day, but it has been on my mind a lot since then.  It's not something I can fix either, merely something that will forever hurt.  I remember when she used to come to me for nightmares.  Now she comes to me for nothing.  Anyhow, Mark also attended the wedding.  I like him better in the role of guest than Priest.  I think he got to enjoy it more.  Riley and I were left to ourselves to start on honeymoon after that.  It was wonderful and more than I knew to expect, even with older sisters telling more than I should have known.  I think I understand now why Commander Eaglehart thought I might need some time off of work.  Dragging ourselves back to the land of the moving took all of both of our will powers when we'd rather stay in each others arms.

Life is moving fast, but in a very positive direction.  Toran will it, I'm a happy woman.  I get to have my cake (my faith in Toran and my service to him) and eat it too (Riley.)  I spoke with Riley.  I'm going to leave my last name Stuart.  It's been my name professionally for so long, and my dad has no sons.  I just can't bear to give it up.  It doesn't seem to bother Riley at all as long as he gets me.

[Alazira]

I feel off.  I think I might be pregnant.  I'm nauseous and tired and everything seems to have a stronger scent.  With each of my sisters, this is how they knew.  Riley is going to be thrilled, but I don't think I'll tell him yet.  He'll tell me I can't do my job.  I'll just be more careful.  I told Commander Eaglehart that I would do my job despite being married and here I am six months later pregnant.  I just got a promotion.  How does it look for the captain to not be able to go out with her men on missions for the better part of a year?   I might be able to hide it for a few months, but Riley knows my body well by now.  He'll notice the weight gain.  I'll change the style of my armor.  Lucky for me, he just said not long ago that it was a little too close to my body and he was likely to find himself jealous.  I cannot fathom telling Daniella.  Her response is flat unpredictable.  It's strange.  I'm not scared of actually being a mom.  Between my sisters, Myla, Riley and a good nanny, I can handle that.  It' the pregnancy.  I'll be out of commission and I don't like that feeling.  I suppose I should learn to sling rocks or use a bow, because that is all Riley is likely to let me do.  

Things to Do:
Re-design clothing and armor to hide it as long as possible
Get items to make a tea to settle the stomach.
Find a priestess that won't tell anyone to consult
Find a suitable weapon
Make invisibility potions

I will love the child, but Riley and I talked about waiting as this wasn't the best time for me professionally.  I was taking the herbs.  I didn't want to have children just yet, mostly because I wasn't ready to carry the child.  I guess that is what happens when you enjoy being a newly wed though.  I can't regret that.

[Alazira]

I spent a day relaxing and reorganizing at home.  Apparently that is too out of character.  Riley knows me too well.  No matter how much I tried to reassure him, he knew something was up with me.  He took it very well.  He didn't attempt to go chauvinistic pig on me, which was good.  He agreed with me that it Is early yet to tell anyone else.  I figure that we'll play that by ear.  So far the tea is keeping my stomach fairly steady, though I feel tired all the time.  Riley took over the job of finding me a bow and teaching me the basics.  I don't and won't like it, but even I must admit that there will be a time that I won't be able to fight in the front lines.  I know it's still early, but Riley and I did agree on a name if it's a girl.  Abygale Silool Alexander.  Abygale, because that is my mom's name.  Silool, because that was his nanny's name.  Silool was the closest he ever had to a mother.  And Alexander, because that is what is right, even if I haven't changed my name over.

Marinus and William have taken to being mother hens of the group.  It's wonderful to see everyone banding together.  They have among them (the former students) organized the gathering of supplies for their jewelry.  Now they are working on lion skin bags and a few odds and ends, like weapon enchantments and spider boots or bronze shields.  I am so proud of them literally taking care of each other.  Riley is making potions for them from the knuckles that William, Marinus and I gathered.  I made some the other day, but as any fighter knows, potions go quickly.

[Alazira]

It's too obvious I'm pregnant to try to hide it anymore.  But unlike I feared, it hasn't kept me out of the field and away from doing my job.  I went to Katherian recently with Riley, Kian, and Raelyn to look into some murders.  After some investigation and deaths by two Shining Hand members that were already there, we tracked it all back to a den of Vampires who had managed to blackmail a gnomish alchemist into making a potion that made you young again.  However, it also made you strong and with a need to kill.  We took care of the den, including someone even burning down the place.. with us in it.  Luckily we made it out in time, killed the vampires, but their hired hand was stone bound and made it out via the stone.

As for my personal life.  Things are going well.  Riley hasn't been around much lately, but I know he loves me.  He didn't even bat an eye at a VERY pretty girl in Katherian... unlike Kian whose jaw hit the table.  Speaking of Kian, upon completing the investigations, the Shining Hand offered him membership.  He's now assigned to my group.  Slowly getting a group of men that I know and can train to do things my way.

The students are doing well, learning lots, and it's good to see.

[Alazira]

I got word from Kian (a young man I was asked to train who is interested in being an Undead Slayer). In his note he said that he had gotten orders to show up to Kitharian and investigate some murders and asked if I was available to help.  Riley came with me, so arrived on the docks and practically stumbled over Kian and Raelyn.  The most recent murder victim's body was on the docks speared thru and hanging from that spear.  It had been chewed on, parts of the body missing and the bite marks looked human.  We spoke to a few other Beacons who had been looking into the murders.  They seemed to have a bit of attitude and if I am to be honest, I was not pleased with them and had planned to speak to their commanding officer.  I asked them to take care of the body and get it off the spike while we moved forward in the investigation.  

From there we went to another location that a body was found, but the real information was found when we reached the local tavern.  We stood out like a sore thumb.  It sounds like the start of a bad joke, "Four Toranites walk into a bar."  However, that is exactly what we did.  We stopped to talk to a Halfling, who after a bit of pie bribing told us about a local working girl group who were prettier and younger than the other groups and whose boss was bigger and meaner.  This was important because each of the victims was a married man who was cheating on his wife with prostitutes.  It was what they all had in common.  One of the working girls was present so we sent Riley over to talk to her (figuring he fit the profile of the victims best we had with us.  He was married at least).  He chatted her up and she brought him into the back room.  The entire time Riley was talking to her, I have to admit I found the scene hilarious.  The idea of Riley going to a working girl, well, it was humorous.  I do have to admit, the girl was Beautiful with a capital B.  Kian turned to look at the girl and his mouth dropped to the floor.  I slapped him lightly upside the back of the head to remind him that 1) we were there on business and 2) that she was a working girl.  Anyhow when she took him back to her room at the inn, I followed and stood outside the door listening.  I wasn't leaving Riley alone with anyone who we thought my have some information on the murders.  Next thing I know, the girl is running out of the room straight into me and Riley is hollering to stop her.  I grabbed her and threw her to the ground, but she was strong.  I mean really strong.  It isn't often I find a woman who doesn't do what I do in my life who is stronger than I am, but she was.  Luckily Riley joined me and between us we managed to hold her down until Kian knocked her cold.  We tied her up and then before our eyes she changed into an old lady.  Rae found a vial that had broken when she tried to use it with Riley, and after checking it out, it appeared that it was some sort of anti-aging potion but that it needed blood to complete it.  

So, we went back to the docks to see her boss and instead came across the dead bodies of the other two Shining Hand members.  Rae and I ran to them and began checking their wounds, which were clearly dead.  We both tried praying to Toran to bring them back to us, but there was some kind of vileness that was making that impossible.  Just then we were attacked.  A group of street thugs tried to take us out.  Despite the fact that I know that at least Riley and I were using the flats of our blades, trying NOT to kill them, only one lived and that was after Riley healed him.  Lucky for us, he was talkative.  He gave us all kinds of information, including where we could find the trouble and the password to get into the building.

And on we went.  Rae had to leave, so it was just the three of us from there.  We got in, but we fooled no one.  They attacked and we put them all down.  Vampires.  Lots and lots of vampires.  We kept searching and exploring.  In the end we put down dozens and dozens of vampires, found one living and one dead working girl to save, and a gnome who made the potions under duress because they had his wife (who was dead).  Among the dead vampires was the leader of the coven and his female cohort and a man I don't know much about, but would bet was soul bound and that we will see more of.  Before we made it out, someone set fire to the building.  Our exit was more a rushed exit of seeing to getting the living people out and trying not to burn ourselves.  I grabbed one of the working women who was shrieking hysterically and threw her over my shoulder with ease and carried her out the door.  Obviously your body can do things when it gets in that mode.  I was worried about dying inside the building with the baby inside me.  I don't know that I moved faster or was stronger at any time in recent history.  

In the end, everyone who was still living made it out of the building.  The gnome was mentally not doing well though.  He loved his wife very much and her death seemed to snap something inside him.  Kian was officially accepted into the Order of the Shining Hand and given orders to be in my unit.  The bodies of the two dead Beacons were taken to Ft. Llast and given a proper burial.  

I was happy that I got to take part of in this investigation because it showed me that even pregnant I could get my job done.

[Alazira]

//Written by Riley's player

LITTLE KICKER

The time was close and as much as Jillian wanted to stay active it was too much for her. Her back was racked with pain almost constantly now and even though all throughout the pregnancy she carried herself well these last weeks were miserable for her. But she never complained, well maybe just a little. Always faced the day with a smile and her only complaint was that she thought she looked liked a dancing cow. Never! She's radiant and beautiful even on her worst day. But regardless of how I see her it's time to go. Little Kicker will demand an audience soon and we must be prepared.
We had talked about where the birth should take place and after short discussion we both decided that it should be at her family home. What better place? Her mother and sisters are there and will want the very best for her and the newborn. And the temple is close by should anything go amiss. So we packed and headed for the docks and caught the next ship to Huangjin. The voyage over was uneventful. That is unless you consider Little Kicker noticeably assuming a lower posture to be uneventful. Jillian's back was now on fire and I knew she wouldn't be able to complete the walk to her parent's house without many rests. So I paid a one of the young seamen to go out with the pilot long boat and deliver a note to her parents. The ship's Captain was the same as when I came and asked for her hand and he told the young sailor to make haste or in his words, "Prepare for a thumpin", if he didn't go there straight away and not only deliver the note but offer his services. Another three hours crawled by as the ship made it's way into dock and the gangway was across. But even before that we could see that the young man avoided the Captain's wrath. There on the pier was Abygale and Richard. They had with them an ox drawn cart filled with straw. Both appeared to be calm. But I'm sure that their stomachs were turning. Mine was falling and tumbling uncontrollably.

At first Jillian refused the cart. She kept saying she wasn't infirmed and could walk but Abygale wouldn't take no for an answer. And it was good that she did. At least Jillian could be somewhat comfortable, kind off, as the cart rumbled along the path to the house. When we arrived Jillian's sisters were already active. When Sandra saw Jillian she sent her son straight away to fetch her midwife. Thank Toran for that as neither of us really knew what to expect and things started to move rapidly. Almost immediately upon entering the house Jillian gasped and her legs buckled as she doubled over in a shot of pain. A copious amount of fluid covered the floor where she stood. I was on the verge of panic. Jillian had the look of bewilderment. Abygayle just smiled and weighted the room with confidence which calmed us both and said that we got there just in time. The pain passed and Abygale slowly led Jillian to her room. I tried to follow but a look from her sisters and a gentle hand on my shoulder from Rick kept me from proceeding further. It was at that time that the midwife arrived and hurried into the room with bag in hand. And the waiting began.

"You know. It doesn't make the time move any faster if all you do is stare at the door. And before you ask it's only been a few minutes from the last time you asked. ", Rick said. I give him a muted smile and try to look away but every noise that comes from within the room demands my attention. What are they doing?, How is Jillian?, How much longer?, are the questions racing through my mind. There is increased commotion from within the room. A muted scream and Abygale's voice urging for someone to push. Push what? Quiet now. Then it starts again. What in all the hells is going on? I look at Rick. He smiles and tells me it's alright. Soon now he says. How can he be so calm? Then from the room I hear, "There's the head! Push child! Push! Almost there. Just a little more. One more child, just give me one more good push". Then silence. Followed by sobs and soft crying. I stand to head to the door. Is something is wrong!? I must know.

I take a step toward the door and it swings open. Sandra steps through the door smiling and wiping away tears. "It's a boy." she announces. "Jillian is fine. The baby is fine. We ... are fine. Give us a few minutes and you can come see her and your son".

A son! I ... I have a son! I feel Rick's hand on my shoulder. "Welcome to fatherhood Riley. Look. *he motions to the door* They are ready for you. Go see your wife and say hello to your son". I rise and make my way to the room. Or do I? I don't remember taking the steps to get there. I was just there. And what I witnessed was beyond all I could ever have imagined. Jillian propped up with pillows holding our son in her arms as she cemented the bond between mother and child. Tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. Tears streaming down mine I'm sure. I make my way over to her side and kiss her gently on her cheek. "You are amazing." I say. And I take the first real look at who she has been carrying for all these months. "He's beautiful." I say. "No. Handsome. He's handsome." she corrects me. Of course. Handsome. Our handsome son. Richard Alexander. Welcome to a confused world Richard. And I lean down and gently kiss him on the head. Welcome to fatherhood Riley. Don't mess it up.

[Alazira]

Richard is nearly five now.  Time has certainly flown by.  It won't be long before we are earnestly teaching him how to use a sword.  Riley is wonderful as usual and life in the Shining Hand is.. well.. as normal as life in the Shining Hand can be.

The reason for this entry is to write out and thus work out my thoughts from a recent trip I took at Daniella's request.  She has made friends with Lord Siphe.  He was once a General of our enemy and is now, according to Daniella, her friend.  She states that he is an honorable man and has good intentions.  She is concerned for his safety however, because she does not have the same feelings for those who would inherit his title if he were to perish.  

So, my job was to simply accompany her on her next trip to visit with Lord Siphe and give my opinion of his second in command.  It is a good thing that Lord Siphe having a good opinion of me wasn't necessary, because almost from the start he decided he did not like me.  I can't say that it particularly offends me.  He is military to his very core and although I was raised military, all the time I have spent in the Shining Hand and doing what must be done instead of necessarily what the military would do has taken it's toll on the finer points of my manners.  It is what it is.  

In the end, it did not hinder my ability to get a read on Nijau.  His actions almost completely mirrored mine.  It wasn't long before I was fairly certain that his feelings for Lord Siphe were similar to mine for Lady Daniella.  He trusts him and would give his life for him in a moment.  I was given the opportunity to fight along side him, and that cemented my opinion.  Lord Siphe doesn't have to fear his second in command taking him out of leadership, Nijau may not agree with all his decisions but he will do whatever he is told and will trust Nijau to the end.  I think he is mostly just afraid of how we will affect his people.  If they teach us, will we teach them our bad habits?  

Besides that, Lord Siphe had lots of information to share with Lady Daniella.  The stories varrying from Corathites attempting to corrupt the Toranite temple that is being built there to a story of a dragon named Shadorixkly and  how in service to Molvaren, Lord Siphe had to leave behind his whole army.  The Dragon possessed creatures that were near impossible to fight because you couldn't see them even if you knew they were there.

I need to find Daniella and tell her my conclusions.