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**Daimondheart** · 01-03-2011, 04:08 AM

Always Raining

Why does it rain so much here? It seems like every time I go out, I get caught in the rain. My head is on fire and my sinuses are terrible. I have to constantly turn my head to keep myself from sneezing all over these pages. I should be resting in a warm room in a warm bed to give this cold a chance to pass, but the fact the inns in Sundren are always full and I can't get a room of my own for the life of me makes that impossible. Oh well, at least the innkeeper is allowing me to spend the night in the common room. I can think of worse situations. Come the morrow, ill or not, I must find a room of my own. I need to recover from this and I can't keep lugging my travel pack with me everywhere!

On the plus side, I've at least become familiar with the city and even managed to procure a suitable set of spectacles for my eyes, though the frames are a touch too small for my face. It was just my luck that horse stomped my old pair to powder during my travel with the caravan to get here. I can see well enough without them, but reading becomes impossible lest I literally stick the tip of my nose to the parchment or squint my eyes horribly! I long for the day when my sorcery will allow me to be rid of the need for glasses, but I haven't untapped the spells for that yet.

I'm starting to wonder if I should have come to Sundren. Perhaps I should have stayed in Waterdeep with my brothers and sisters? No, no, what brothers and sisters? There were only a handful of us still true to the faith when I left, and those still there were contemplating about finding another deity. At the rate things have gone since the Unwriting, I may be the only follower of Ao left.

It happened again. I wrote his name and it vanished from the page as soon as I wrote it, leaving naught but the impression of my pen. Why is this happening? Why, Ao, are you doing this? Why did you reveal yourself to the world only to erase all written records of you years later? I want nothing from you. I expect nothing from you. I just wish to honor you for the majesty that you are.

Am I a fool?

**Daimondheart** · 01-03-2011, 11:14 PM

Moving at the Right Pace

I began my search anew for an available room, though my back has seen better mornings. Even with cushions, the lounge chairs in the common room of the inn were not very pleasant for sleeping. After purchasing and swiftly devouring a small meal, I set out from the Sundren Comforts Inn and checked all the districts once more. As expected, no vacancies anywhere. Though I had wanted a room in the city, beggars can't be choosers. I will have to try elsewhere. Hoisting my pack onto my shoulders, I left the gates of Sundren and made my way south down the Pioneer road.

I decided to head nearly all the way back I originally came and try my luck at the Second Wind Inn. Upon arriving, I spotted a small gathering around the fire but didn't take time to greet them. Perhaps it was rude of me, but finding a place to stay takes priority. I entered the inn to find several others occupying the bar, but I again moved passed them to speak with the innkeeper directly. Once again, no vacancies. While Sundren's attractiveness may be a boon for the city, it's certainly making it difficult for new arrivals like me to get settled!

Frustrated, I swiftly departed the inn and stormed down the path until I realized I had to pause a moment to consider my next move. After some though, I decided Port Avanthyr would be the most logical choice. A bustling port must have plenty of rooms for sailors and new arrivals, and the distance from the city is about the same as it is from the Second Wind Inn. My destination set, I followed the road back north until I reached the fork and turned back down south west. Thank goodness the Legion keeps the roads well patrolled for bandits and other unsavory sorts.

Hours later I found myself walking down the hill into the squalor of the port. The sounds of the port took me back to my days in Waterdeep that seem so long ago. My spirits felt oddly lifted despite the filth. It was almost like I had went back home. A faint smile on my face, I walked deeper into the port and began asking for lodging. I was directed to the Menacing Mariner and began to head in the pointed direction, but then I spotted the lighthouse high on the bluffs. My smile widened and I just had to take a detour up the path to the building.

Once I neared the top, my breath was taken away as I took in the vast ocean that stretched out endlessly before me. My body was buffeted by the chill winds and I loved every second of it! Deep down, I just knew this was where I was meant to stay. Still smiling, I jogged back down the path and swiveled through the buildings to reach the Menacing Mariner on the docks. I quickly pushed opened the door, bound over to the innkeeper, and asked for a room. He nearly fell backwards, surprised by my sudden entrance! He blinked several times after steadying himself and gave me a confused look. I repeated my question but this time more slowly.

"No room," he responded.

I was crushed. With a dejected sigh, I ordered a mug of Ale and carried it over to one of the tables in the back corner. My entrance probably garnered a lot of attention, but if people were staring at me, I hadn't noticed. I just slowly sipped my ale as I pondered where to go next. Sestra seemed the obvious choice. I'd have to head north up the path, again, make my way west then south, again, ask for lodgings, again, and, most likely, find none available, AGAIN!

I sighed and reached into my pack to draw out my glasses and you, journal. After twisting the tiny frames onto my face, I prepared to scribble but paused as I heard a chair move. I looked up to see an old man sitting down across from me. "Greetings Lad," he said with a crooked but warm smile. Before I could say anything, he suddenly took my right hand in a surprisingly strong grip and shook it vigorously. "The name's Jack, though most call me 'Old Man Jack.'"

I stuttered at his forwardness and how openly friendly he was to me, a complete stranger. "J-Joasem," I responded with little thought.

"Hm... funny name. Oh well, pleasure to meet you, Yoah." He continued to smile as he released my hand and sat back in my chair.

The shortening of my name made me shirk, but I couldn't stay angry. Jack was just too friendly. A smile finally touched my face again and I nodded back to him. "Likewise, Jack."

Jack nodded back in turn then fixed me with a scrutinizing look. "You seem to be in a bit of a rush and disappointed rather easily." He then nodded his head in the direction of the innkeeper and looked back to me.

I sighed at the reminder, leaned back in my chair, and drained the last of my ale before responding. "I've been running all over Sundren trying to find a place to stay. No luck at all so far. Every inn I've come across is filled."

Jack nodded his head in understanding. "Sundren has been seeing a lot of visitors as of late. Not sure what's going on that's different from usual. Lot of rumors floating around." He began to tap his chin as he stared off into the distance, quickly loosing himself in his own thoughts. After a minute of waiting, I cleared my throat softly and he blinked himself back to reality. "My apologies, I tend to drift off now and then," he explained with a smirk then tilted his head. "I got some advice for you though. A little something I tell every greenhorn new to the area."

I lofted my brow in curiosity. "What's that?"

"Be patient. I know you're rushing to get settled, but you should always take the time to learn as much as you can about everything."

I politely smiled and nodded as he spoke, even though this was a lesson I learned long ago.

"You got to move at the right pace! One that leaves everyone and everything you cross scribed in your mind. Not only do the memories last for a lifetime..." Jack then paused and leaned forward to fix his eyes on mine. "But the memory that others have of you will last for even longer."

That last sentence left me in silence. The memory that others have of me. Jack had no way of knowing, but he touched on a subject that I, my bothers, and my sisters in the faith had pondered many, many times.

"Hey, you all right, lad?" Jack suddenly asked.

My line of thought broken, I smiled to Jack and nodded. "Thank you for the advice, Jack."

Jack gave me another curious look but said no more on it. He slowly rose to his feet, his back creaking faintly as he straightened. My right hand, hung on the back of the chair, reached to lightly touch my back as I recalled the pain I had there when I woke up earlier. The sight of him reminded me of my inevitable fate as a man and what would soon come to pass after. "Take care, Yoah, and good luck." He offered another toothy smile before waving and departing, leaving me to my thoughts.

Moving at the right pace, eh?

**Daimondheart** · 01-04-2011, 06:40 PM

Home?

At last I've found a place to stay, though I'm both relieved and nervous, journal. Where to begin? Well, after several more ales in the Menacing Mariner, I decided it was time to get moving. I didn't leave Port Avanthyr right away though. Perhaps it was a bit of what Jack shared with me, but I wanted to explore a little more before departing. Silly, I know what with my current situation, but I couldn't help it. It felt too much like my old home back in Waterdeep, and, deep down, I hoped I might be able to find another place to stay.

Of course, I had no such luck. Rather than finding a place to stay, I just found some odd . Carrying messages this way and that for both commoners and corrupt city officials. Nothing truly fascinating but I at least got some stags out of it. Well, one odd job wasn't really fascinating, but it allowed me to meet an unfortunate soul. His name was Ghelworg, a scruffy looking man that the mayor something-or-other (I can't recall his name or even his proper title for that matter. Just another corrupt official exploiting the people with ridiculous taxes.) wanted me to ask to stop loitering around the docks.

It was a simple enough task and I found Ghelworg standing nearly right outside the door of the town hall. Well, at least I assumed it was Ghelworg. He matched the description but didn't look at me when I called out his name. Since he was facing the sea, I assumed he was lost in a day dream of some kind and decided to walk up right in front of him. He wasn't startled by my sudden appearance though and just looked up at me with kind eyes.

I couldn't help but smile a hint at those eyes and kindly asked Ghelworg to move along. He didn't respond though and just kept staring at me with the same look. The smile faded from my lips and I tried again, but all I got was a blank stare in return. I almost became angry then a thought occurred to me. This time, very slowly so the movements of my lips could be seen, I asked him if he was deaf.

Ghelworg nodded in response and so everything made sense to me now. Pity took my heart and I reached into my pouch and handed several coins out to the man. Speaking slowly once more, I let him know they were for him and wished him good luck. A smile came to his face as he accepted the coins from me. I still wanted to do more for the man and slowly asked if he needed any help. He pulled a book from his coat and showed it to me. The flowery title giving away it was a romance novel. He then opened it up and pointed to a stamp marked on the inside of the cover that revealed it was overdue. He then reached into his pocket and withdrew a map of Sundren. After steadying it on the book, he pointed to center of the map, indicating Sundren City. I nodded and accepted the book from him, glad to be of service. The book now safely in my pack, I waved goodbye to him and left, not wishing to bother him any further on behalf of mayor what's-his-name.

After that, I thought it was time to leave. Several people had asked me to deliver messages to people outside of the port and I still needed to find a place to stay. Pack on my shoulders, I made my way north-east back the Pioneer Road until I reached the first fork. I then turned west and followed it to Sestra. My fears of my trip to Sestra from earlier proved to be correct. As soon as I entered town, I began to ask around for the whereabouts of the inn. I was surprised to learn from several locals that Sestra didn't even have one! I could understand a small village lacking such but a town this big? A very disappointing discovery to make after such a long walk. I spent little time to bemoan my bad luck, though. It was getting later in the afternoon and nightfall wouldn't be long in following. With sore feet and a pack that seemed to keep getting heavier despite my diminishing food supply, I set out on the Pioneer Road once more.

I passed through the Exigo Trading Post on the way back, taking a moment to have a meal and purchase a small amount of supplies. I had to be careful how much I spent for I had no notion what a room would cost me, assuming I ever got one! I then followed the road further north through the city of Sundren itself. Though I had little hope, I tried all of the inns once more but no luck. Still no vacancies. I side tracked to the Entertainment District to deliver Ghelworg's book and paid the late fee with no complaint. It was a small price. I then passed through the city and once more my feet followed the road, this time north to Aquor. If I couldn't find a place to stay there, I didn't know what I'd do.

The temperature turned colder as I made my way further north. In the dim light of the setting sun, I could see the twinkling of thousands stars drifting down from the sky. This was, of course, snow, journal. You'll have to pardon my feeling poetic at the moment. I smiled faintly at the beauty around me; my spirits up lifted though my sore feet made it painfully aware I was still on the ground. It wasn't much longer until I took my first steps into the city of Aquor, and I was utterly amazed.

The city was a sight to behold with the snow slowly drifting down to kiss the ground. The buildings were designed well, both pleasing to the eye and to last through the years. New hope began to fill me, then I spotted it. Up on the hill, dominating the entire landscape, there stood a Thayan enclave. I shivered at the sight of it, knowing many of the tales surrounding them. Slavery, experiments in vile magic, and more unspeakable horrors.

I wanted to turn around and leave immediately, but the sight of the moon in the sky halted me. Too late to be traveling on the roads alone. Like it or not, I had to spend the night in Aquor. Taking a deep, calming breath, I strode forward into the city and once again began to search for lodgings. It wasn't long until I found good and bad news. The good news? I learned that one room had become vacant recently at the only inn in the city. The bad news? The only inn was located within the enclave.
And so here I am journal, sitting at my desk in my room inside the last place I wanted to be, but what other choice did I have? Where else could I have gone besides Aquor? Should I have just returned to Sundren City and made do until a room finally opened up elsewhere? And with all these people constantly flowing into the land, what chance would I have had getting a room before someone else? No, like it or not, staying here is my best option. Once I'm settled, I'll be keeping my eyes open for another place to stay, but this room is my home for now.

I am worried though. I am a sorcerer after all and wizards are known for looking down on us "naturalists." Whether it's jealousy over how we can so easily tap into the arcane or their belief that all sorcerers are reckless, power hungry fools; it's rare for a wizard to show any respect to a sorcerer. And they know I'm a sorcerer. They must! I saw the arcane symbols I had to step onto to get into the enclave and felt the magic peering into me, searching for anything that might be a danger to them. I also saw the looks many of them and their knights gave me as I passed through the hall. They know what I am.

I think I'm safe for now. While I certainly don't like Thayans, I won't give them any trouble if they don't give me any. I should just stick to my room whenever I need to rest and stay out of the rest of the enclave. The less noticeable I am the better. I wonder if I should let my hair grow long. The less hair you have, the higher your position among Thayans. So if I let my hair grow long, that should give them the impression I think I'm lesser than them. That should keep me from running into trouble with the more haughty members. At the same time, I don't want my hair to get too long and have them trying to enslave me or something worse. Shoulder length would be best, I think.

Well, enough worries for tonight. My feet are killing me, my spine feels like it wants to be ripped from my back, and my eyes are closing on their own. A quick warm bath and many hours in bed will do wonders for me. Goodnight, journal.

**Daimondheart** · 01-05-2011, 06:52 PM

First Blood

I remember when I first came upon the Gates of the Sunderer as I traveled with the caravan. One of the hired escorts began telling us the tale of how Mundus, the now deceased founder of Sundren, called on the aid of the wizards of Thay to destroy the smallest mountain and create a path into the valley. At the time, my reaction was a mixture of awe and disgust. Then later, as I sat within the walls of their enclave, I found myself trembling to be so close to them. These wizards were able to turn an entire mountain into dust, while I can barely start a camp fire with my magic.

It was those thoughts that had me want to try something drastic. I recalled that back at the gate there was trouble with bandits. At the time, I had no desire at all to get involved. There were (and still are) plenty of Legion soldiers and battle ready adventurers roaming the land. True, I've trained plenty of times alone with both magic and sword, but I never desired to use them for more than necessary self defense. I never wanted to intentionally put myself in danger.

But my entire world has changed since the Unwriting began. I'm unsure of my faith, unsure of myself, in a fascinating but still unfamiliar land and now surrounded by potential enemies that have powers that dwarf my own. I wanted to test myself and so I made the journey back to that great gate. I learned the rough location of the bandits, waited until night fall, and made my way though the narrow pass past the gate.

I already walked this path before and recalled well the trail off the path that lead up to the side of the mountain. I was certain this was where the bandits must have made their camp. Once I located the path in the dark, I cast several wards of protection, and then girded myself for battle in my Myrmidon armor. The armor is unique in design in that it lacks a cuirass to cover the wearer's torso but that's the point. It was designed to protect as much of the body as possibly without hindering the use of your sword arm, which made it perfect for my fighting style. Long sword in my right and now shield in my left, I made my way up the path in the dark.

It wasn't long until I spotted a source of light at the lowering peak of the path. I crouched low and began to slowly creep closer and closer to the fire, my armor proving a boon once again as it lacked clanking plates. Two figures came into view before me as they crouched before their fire. I halted my progress and remained perfectly still. I watched and listened to everything around me. The fire crackled and the crickets chirped as the wind whistled and howled against the mountains. Everyone noise became so distinct in that silence and my ears drank it all in.

One bandit, a human male with a shaggy black beard tended to the fire as another stood watch at the edge of the path looking down into the valley. I couldn't see any of his features in the light, but I could see the shape of a bow as well as an arrow already knocked in his hands. The two spoke to each other as time passed and it didn't take long for me to deduce I'd found my quarry. I still waited though. I could only see so much from my vantage point and wanted to make certain there were only two of them. Time passed but I heard no other voices.

My heart pounded in my chest and I forced a lump down my throat. I should have run. There were two of them. I was outnumbered. But I didn't run. What's more, I wasn't afraid at all. I was excited, and that upsets me even more as I think on it. Why wasn't I afraid? As soon as there was even a hint of danger, I've always run before. Now I willingly put myself in danger and I'm not afraid at all? What the hells is wrong with me?!

The wind began to swirl around me and I felt a wet drop touch my skin. My eyes still focused on my prey, I could hear the approach of the storm. The rain came down harder and the sound of the rain filled my ears. The two bandits began to curse as they rushed to collect whatever they had been cooking over the now drowning fire. Then the thunder roared.

I sprinted from my crouched position and dashed up the hill, my boots slamming into the dampening earth. But no sounds from them could be heard as the deafening thunder continued to sound like a battle horn! An unheard scream wailed into the night as my right arm sprang forth, sinking deep into the back of the first bandit. A flash of lightning revealed the side of his horrified face as his head lurched backwards in response.

In all my life, I never felt so alive.

I twisted my wrist, pulled back, and yanked my sword arm to the right, the blade tearing through his back right side, mixing blood with rain as it broke free of flesh. I slammed my shield arm into the dying bandit and knocked him out of my way as I drew my sword back, the left side of the hilt hovering next to my right ear. My eyes fell on the remaining bandit, dimly illuminated by the nearly dead fire.

Caught off guard, he stared at his fallen companion in shock for a moment, and then reached for something on his belt. I charged forward, my right boot kicking the ash and wood of the fire into the bandit's direction. Another flash of lightning revealed the horn in his hands. He brought it to his lips as I closed the gap and blew with all of his might. But the thunder's roar was louder and drowned out the call of the horn. The man then cried out as heated ash leapt into face, the horn falling from his grip. His hands reached up to brush away the stinging ash as my sword found his stomach. I could hear his moan as he lurched forward onto my sword and brought his face right in front of mine.

I am shocked that I am writing this down now journal but truth is truth. As the bandit stared into my face, his eyes wracked with pain as his bile poured from his stomach, I couldn't keep myself from smiling. I was smiling.

I leaned back, lifted my right foot off the ground, and then kicked the bandit off of my blade. He tumbled backwards so slowly until he reached the edge of the trail. His arms flailed around in the dark as he teetered for what was left of his life. But he lost balance and vanished from my sight. I stepped forward and caught a glimpse of him bouncing down the mountain side until the darkness swallowed him. I went to turn away, but lightning flashed once more and I was able to see his prone body staring lifelessly up from the valley floor.

I was still smiling.

The deed done, I took one cursory look around at what was left of the camp. I found a small stash of stags and took it for my own. Then, finding nothing else of use, I drew my hood over my head and knelt down to wipe the blood from the long sword. I then sheathed it and made my way back down into the valley. Save for the storm, the road back to Aquor was eventless.

And now, here I am. My armor and weapon left in a heap in the corner as far away from me as possible, leaving me to ponder what had just happened. Where is the innocence I should have loss? Where is the guilt I should be feeling after killing one of my fellow men for the first time? And why am I so excited?

**Daimondheart** · 01-06-2011, 01:16 AM

Empty

I spent most of the day in the Sundren library. Now that I'm settled, I thought it was time that I learned as much about the city-state as I could. It's history, the local organizations, the dangers, etc. I can't remember a time I became so engrossed in my reading, but I never wanted to cut myself off from the world so badly before. The memory of what I'd done haunts me even now. Well, not so much what I did as how I did it. They were bandits, after all. Villains who preyed on the weak. Sundren was a better place now with their deaths, even if only a little.

Yet, the way I so ruthlessly cut through them and how much I enjo-*Ink Blot*

I just had to get away from it! That sensation so wrong to feel with what I'd done. That isn't me! Unfortunately, the library isn't open all day. The last one to leave, I shuddered as the librarian closed the doors behind me. I didn't want to leave. I didn't want to go back into the world, but I had to.

I made my way through the streets to the trader district. I had made up my mind to join the Exigo Syndicate. When I first entered Sundren (and before I realized how difficult getting a room would be), I took a walk around all the districts to see everything. I was fascinated when I entered the guild's building and saw all the golems and machines. However, I arrived too late. Captain Tidestrike, the man in charge of hiring, had already retired for the day. I would have to wait until tomorrow.

After that, I just began to wander around. I visited the temples and the tailor. Ran into some people and spoke with them about something. I can't even remember at the moment. I was just trying to stay distracted from the growing urge to fight again. I feel so empty and hollow now after what happened. Yet somehow I found myself back in the sewe-oh, my mistake. Sundren's underground water works or whatever the hells that legion officer tried to tell me.

Anyway, I was back down there, casting wards and girding myself in my armor. Two spiders and several lizardfolk fell to my sword but not before sinking several arrows into my flesh. I made my way back to the entrance and rested to treat my wounds. After I was finished, I got up to leave when a wizardly looking man suddenly stepped through the doorway. He blinked at my light spell and complained about the brightness and asked why I had it cast. I pointed out the darkness rather curtly and we ended up having a short argument about light spells and my armor leaving me exposed or something. I can't remember all the details though I do recall exchanging names with him, oddly enough.

After we wished each other well, I made my way out of the sewers and left the city. I passed through a camp outside the city and overheard a group talking about destroying something. I stayed and listened out of curiosity, but the gathering diminished shortly after my arrival with only one person even acknowledging my existence before leaving. As empty as I feel now, should I feel surprised at being ignored by so many?

I then wandered the Sharahan hills while slaying many goblins, then doubled back to Viridale Forest where another goblin and a gnoll fell to me. The battle was tough though and I would be no match for greater numbers. I retreated back to the Legion camp. I saw that night was falling, so I began the trek back to Aquor. Upon reaching the border, I made my way towards the enclave and passed through the halls to my room without fear. Without anything.

I feel so empty, journal, and I don't know what to do about it. I miss the family I no longer have. The brothers and sisters in faith that are now gone. What should I do?

**Daimondheart** · 01-06-2011, 01:59 AM

Brighter, Truer

Brighter, truer than the sun in the morning,
Dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid;
Stars of the East, the horizon adorning,
Stars of the West, guide us the night we bade.

Hail the blest morn, when comes the true Creator,
Down from the regions of glory descends;
Humbly we go to this one who is greater.
To He who controls the paths of all ends.

Say, shall we yield Him, in costly devotion,
Fragrance of Faer�n and offerings divine?
Gems of the mountain and pearls of the ocean,
Myrrh from the forest, or gold from the mine?

Vainly we offer each ample oblation,
Vainly with gifts would His favor secure;
Richer by far is the heart�s adoration,
What else our overgod can we allure?

Hail the blest morn, when comes the true Creator,
Down from the regions of glory descends;
Humbly we go to this one who is greater.
To He who controls the paths of all ends.

Brighter, truer than the sun in the morning,
Dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid;
Stars of the East, the horizon adorning,
Stars of the West, guide us the night we bade.

**Daimondheart** · 01-08-2011, 12:45 AM

The Elven Warrioress

I meet an interesting person today journal. I had just passed through the Legion camp nestled on the border of Viridale forest and stopped to ready myself for battle. I just can't help it! Ever since that night, I try and try to keep myself away from battle, but I keep finding myself wandering back into danger. I'm not reckless, mind you. I always have the sense to retreat when it's obvious I can't win, but I just can't stop this hunger for blood shed! I have to kill something every day. Why is this happening? What awoke within me when I killed those bandits?

I'm sorry, journal. I'm getting off track. Where was I? Oh, right, the encounter. Anyway, I had just finished casting a ward when an elf suddenly emerged from the path leading back to the camp. I jumped in surprise and she shivered for some reason and asked me what I was doing. I stuttered at first and told her I was casting a spell on myself. She then narrowed her eyes on me and said she didn't understand magic.

I was caught by surprise again. An elf that doesn't understand magic? While I've seen very few elves with my own eyes, I've read and heard much about them. Why, one text I read on magic was written by an elf and he boasted how all elves have a natural connection with the arcane and will always have a better understanding of it than any human. Yet I now meet an elf in person and she says she doesn't understand magic?

I explained my confusion to her and she responded by saying she was born among the forest, not among books. Again, surprise. While magic has certainly been studied, researched, tested, and recorded, it's as natural to our world as the trees in that very forest and has been so long before the records of any history. She said that ring didn't ring true to her though for she was one with the forest. Those words brought a memory to the surface and I asked if she was a druid. She shook her said and explained while she did follow the god Silvanus; she followed his path in a different way.

An unusual number of people came and went as we continued to speak to each other at the forest border. One, a Hin woman, briefly entered the conversation and insisted on calling me Jack since she didn't know my real name. The wood elf's reaction was rather comical when I explained to her Jack wasn't my real name and the Hin was just being forward. After the Hin and a passing Legion soldier moved on, we introduced ourselves to each other and I learned her name was Maiavin.

I began to cast my spells once more and Maiavin asked me if I knew anything about a rogue goblin in the area. Recalling a task I had been set to, I asked if she meant the poisoner. She did and we decided it'd be best to travel together. Once I was set and girded in my armor, we set out into the forest. My familiar, Vabbi, crawled out from his usual resting place in my cloak and skittered along the ground. At the sight of him, Maiavin whistled and this great boar came tromping out of the woods! She began to speak to the boar and called him Astald, the two seeming to have a bond similar to Vabbi and me.

The four of us continued on though Vabbi stayed behind me. I never allow him to go directly into battle. While he is a tough beetle, his presence alone is enough to aid me thanks to the magically bound between us. Astald, on the other hand, stayed in front of Maiavin, ready to defend against any attacker.

Maiavin noticed tracks leading off the forest path. Thinking it might be our quarry, we crept along the math to follow it. We came upon a gnoll wielding a giant mace. As soon as it spotted us, the beast charged with a snarl and Astald went to intercept him. It was no contest though. The gnoll raised its mace and slammed it down into poor Astald's skull. Blood and bone splattered in all directions as the poor beast fell! Maiavin growled and lunged at the gnoll with a vengeance and I followed suit with my sword. Her swords struck true to its heart while I cleaved downwards into its head. The creature's eyes lolled backwards in awkward angles as its head split open and it slumped backwards into the pool of its own blood as we both withdrew our weapons from its corpse.

Both our eyes went to the fallen Astald and I found myself apologizing to Maiavin for her loss and for being unable to do anything. I'm a sorcerer, not a priest. I don't have the power to restore life. She shed no tears though. She simply took a deep breath, praised Astald's valiance, and said perhaps Silvanus would save him. I said nothing but was surprised at her nonchalance. I had thought the two shared a deeper bound than that. Or perhaps that's just the way she is due to her upbringing. I'd rather not make a judgment against her when I'm still ignorant to many things.

We moved on deeper into the woods and came upon the first of the Mossfield forts. However, I noted something wrong as soon as we got there. Bodies of gnolls and goblins lay strewn across the ground. Battle had already come to this place. We moved forward cautiously and were surprised to find a single axe-wielding man fighting the gnolls and goblins on his own! However, he was outnumbered and we rushed to his aid.

But a giant gnoll suddenly appeared from the center of the fort, backed up by two archers! The fighter and I went in to meet the giant gnoll head on while Maiavin rushed past to deal with the archers. The monster was surprisingly strong. Even with the two of us standing toe-to-toe against it, the gnoll was dodging our attacks with ease and taking little damage. As I blocked one blow from the monster with my shield, I glanced over and spotted Maiavin with a deep wound in her side. One of the archers was down on its knees, hugging its belly in a futile attempt to stop the flow of blood from a wound, but the other was bearing down on her with arrow after arrow!

The stranger was holding himself well, so I pivoted around the giant gnoll and suddenly charged at the archer. Its attention focused on Maiavin, it didn't see me coming as my blade skewered through its side! I then ripped my blade out; side stepped and pivoted around to lop the head off the one Maiavin had brought to its knees. Maiavin retreated to the side to tend to her wound with bandages while I charged back to the aid of our comrade.

Both the warrior and the giant gnoll now bore the grievous wounds they had traded with each other. I dropped my sword and shield and attempted to grapple the brute from behind, but he shook me off and I tumbled to the ground with a clatter. It turned its attention on me now and began to bring its mace down! But it suddenly lurched backwards as the fighter hacked into its left side with his axe and Maiavin, recovered enough from her wounds, skewered the beast from its right! The pincer force from the three blades made the gnoll sickeningly split in half at its torso, upper half falling backwards and lower half falling forward.

The three of us, panting with exhaustion, rose to our feet. The fighter threw his axe into the beast's head and offered his thanks for our aid. His eyes spied something on the creature's belt and he reached down to take a piece of parchment as he retrieved his axe. I couldn't see what was on it, but it must have been valuable as he said Maiavin and I could have what was left on the beast, which was a fair lot! The full plate armor the creature bore was still intact and a large sack filled with stags hung from its belt! I asked Maiavin if she wanted any of it, but she wasn't interested as her attention was focused elsewhere.

The stranger started tending to his wounds as I collected the gold and began to remove the armor. After securing it, I spotted a strange looking totem. Realizing this fort must be a Mossclaw village; I took out some parchment and made a rubbing of the symbols upon it. I had just finished when Maiavin suddenly whispered a warning. More gnolls had come. The three of us tensed as we recovered our weapons.

Night had already fallen but it now became so dark I could barely see anything with my eyes. Maiavin seemed to have no trouble navigating the dark while the axe warrior and I stumbled after her through the primitive structure and the underbrush. It's fortunate she was with us because I couldn't see a blasted thing in the darkness and I'd forgotten to cast a light spell in all the commotion! The sounds of howling, doggish whimpering, and snarls assaulted my ears as Maiavin went to work on the gnolls in the pitch black. I finally stumbled upon her and the warrior dealing with a gnoll and lent my blade, though the beast fell as soon as I struck, already dead.

**Daimondheart** · 01-08-2011, 02:34 AM

Two Worlds

I cursed and cast a spell to light up the area, and was surprised to find a fourth person now standing with us! He revealed himself to be a cleric of some deity as he and the warrior had a brief exchange over the difference of divine magic. The cleric offered to heal Maiavin's wounds, but she preferred to bandage herself instead. As she tended to herself, the cleric and the warrior decided to depart and bid us farewell. Maiavin and I decided to do the same once she had bandaged herself. Three could barely handle the gnolls; two would've been suicide.

We had some trouble getting back to the camp. Maiavin could hear the sounds of two off the path and wanted us to take care of them so they wouldn't ambush the next travelers. However, there was a third gnoll she couldn't detect due to the terrain and I took a sound blow to my shoulder. Fortunately, I carried a strong potion with me and quaffed it as soon as we put the monster down. We exercised extra caution on the way back but the trip was eventless. Once we entered through the gate, we made out way to the campfire. I undid my armor and tended to my wounds as Maiavin tended to hers. We then spent several minutes sitting quietly around the fire.

Maiavin and I began talking and topic of my desire to join the Exigo Syndicate came up. She didn't seem too pleased to hear that. She said the Exigo take the forest for granted and don't replace what they take from it. She began talking about the delicate balance and, while nature can care for itself, there was no harm in giving it a helping hand. I saw the truth in this and said I would remember it once I was within the syndicate. I then suddenly got an idea and suggested that Maiavin should join the Exigo. Who else would be better to help them understand the balance? She smiled at the idea but said she couldn't for she had already promised someone that she would join some druids of the glade. I understood her need to keep her promise.

The wind suddenly picked up and I felt myself being yanked by the collar as my cloak took flight in the wind! Half chocking, I just barely heard Maiavin ask me if I'd been to the glade. Glade? What glade? I managed to grab my cloak and wrap it around my waist to keep it from billowing in the wind just as a strange man wearing the head of a dead wolf on his head walked up to the camp.

His name turned out to be Kyle and apparently he and Maiavin were already acquainted. Ironically, Kyle suddenly mentioned his desire to visit the glade because he wanted to trade with them. Maiavin wasn't too keen on the idea and as they talked it over, another elf approached our camp wearing a fancy pair of spectacles. She introduced herself Panieng or "Pan" for short.

You know, I've noticed something a little odd about Sundren people, journal. They are far too open here! I mean so many times I've barely exchanged words with people and right off the bat they either give their name or want to know mine. I'd like to get to know a person a little more before I give away something important like my name. Then again, I've been caught off guard so many times by this forwardness that I usually end up giving it anyhow.

Back on topic, Maiavin agreed to lead Kyle to the glade so long as he promised to be on his best behavior. Maiavin invited me as well because she wanted to show me something and also invited Pan. I stood up and the four of us made our way back into Viridale woods, and I was surprised to see morning had come already. I hadn't realized how late it was when we came back from the Mossclaw territory. I asked Maiavin if we were going to be entering the dangerous parts of the woods, and Kyle chimed in saying all parts of the woods were dangerous. I then clarified my worry and he assured me we had nothing to fear as long as he was around. Needless to say, Kyle was confident.

Maiavin began leading us through the thickest underbrush in the forest I had ever seen. I had actually tried to pass through the direction once and wound up where I started. Maiavin was just amazing though! She wove through the forest with ease, her keen eyes spotting landmarks I'd have never noticed. In short time, we came upon a glade in the wood and I was astonished at what I saw.

The area was beautiful and filled with lovely fauna and flora. I was even shocked to see a lizardman there! Unlike the ones in the sewers, this one didn't attack though. I pointed out my surprise at this and Maiavin pointed out she was just as surprised when she saw an orc peacefully talking with some humans at one of the camps on Pioneer's Road. I blinked at that and asked her if she was certain it had been an orc, and she said she was certain. That didn't make any sense at all. Humans peacefully treating with an orc? Orcs are evil!

I didn't have long to think on it though as I continued to follow Maiavin and the others, then spotted the most colorful and enormous bear I had ever seen! It would’ve been as tall as a giant had it stood on its hind legs! Its fur was a rainbow of colors and I could've sworn I saw white dove feathers enmeshed in its fur, too. Maiavin explained this was the guardian of the glade. Kyle tried to approach it, but the beast let out a warning growl and he backed away quickly. Maiavin commented it was probably the wolf skin on his head.

Maiavin continued to guide us along the path in the glade and we approached a giant fortress built into the treetops! This was the Ranger's Outpost and I think Maiavin's home. At least her reactions upon reaching it implied such. We had to make our way up a long stairway to reach the top and sight from up there was amazing! You could see for miles in any direction above the trees. I could even spot Sundren City from way up there. There were buildings up there, too. A meeting hall, a bar, and I think even an inn. I didn't get the chance to enter the last building. It was all very well built.

I realized then what Maiavin was trying to show me. Progress and nature don't have to be at odds with each other. The two can work hand-in-hand and create something far more beautiful than they can alone. Already now my mind began to fill with new ideas and inspirations I would love to introduce to the Exigo Syndicate once I became a member.

We entered the bar together for a rest though Kyle was becoming frustrated. No one (save the bar tender) wanted to trade with him. Maiavin warned him earlier the druids and rangers would only trade with those that were affiliated with the glade, but that hadn't stopped him. Kyle soon forgot about it and started about the tribe he was going to create. He changed into his "chieftain" outfit and explained how he was going to form a nomadic tribe in Sundren, the Winter Beast Tribe. The title he had given the tribe got me thinking and I asked if he was one of those Icewind Dale "savages."

That turned out to be a poor choice of words, though not in regards to Kyle. It was Maiavin I had insulted. She asked me what I meant by "savage" and I said wild, barbaric, all brawn and no brain. Essentially what I had been led to believe about barbarian tribes from Icewind Dale. However, she took my words the wrong way and thought I was talking about all tribes in general, whether they were barbaric, druidic, or elvish. She later asked to speak with me alone and told me her grievance with what I said. I explained what I had really meant but my words still hurt her because many would use the word "savage" to describe wood elves.

I apologized and said I never meant her any harm and certainly didn't think of her as a savage. She accepted my apology and explained that after a hundred years of spending time with humans, she still didn't understand our world and didn't expect me to understand hers. She then apologized in turn for over reacting, and I told her it was all right. I understood how she felt. I then suggested perhaps the two of us could help each other understand the other's world. She said that was a fair idea.

At this point it was nightfall again. It's amazing how quickly time flies. Maiavin suggested it was time to go but couldn't guide us herself. She asked Thanus, a shaman we met earlier in the bar, to guide Pan and myself out of the glade. Kyle had already departed. She then left but it then started to rain and I was tired. I told Pan and Thanus I would just stay the night in the outpost and leave in the morning. I bid them goodbye and they departed. The rangers were nice enough to give me a bed, though it could be softer. Still, tired as I am, it won't make much of a difference.

I have to say Journal; I'm coming to like Sundren. The beginning has been arduous and I'm still worried about many things. All the same, it's been quite the adventure. For the first time in a while, I'm looking forward to what tomorrow has to bring. Goodnight.

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