A Penitent Mind

[Aniril_Telin]

Faucon found himself kneeling in supplication within the antechamber of the Temple of the Triumverate, his course in his own mind clear. For the past few days, a surreal sense had overcome him the mind of one devastated by their own actions. rising, he gently paced his hand over his heart giving one final sigh of acceptance. With a steady pace he made his way to the armoury assembling two armour forms and a small chest between them.

With measured and practiced hands he placed both his combat armour and his dress armour on the stands taking care to ensure they were both polished to perfection before shrouding them with a black gossamer cloth. With equal care he placed both of his blades in the chest, storing his silver blade for the first time since he had taken it up nearly four years ago. In the defence a woman whom he had never met from a necromancer what seemed like a lifetime ago. In an even and tempered motion he shrouded the blades and their scabbards with another of the black cloths before closing the chest.

After releasing a breath to further fortify his course, he placed the rest of his trappings of combat alongside the chest covering them as well before folding his Triadic vestments and placing them atop the chest leaving a single bronze cloak pin atop them. Two scrolls he had set aside were recovered by resigned hands leaving one with his equipment before departing the Armoury to seek a messenger to deliver the other.

A Knight's Oath

Thou shalt believe all thy church teaches
and observe all its directions

Thou shalt defend thy church.
Thou shalt defend thy country against all whom
oppose it without cessation and without mercy.

Thou shalt respect all those whom are weak,
the poor and the innocent, and shall constitute
thyself a defender of them.

Thou shalt defend that of any charge unto death.

Thou shalt never lie and remain faithful to thy pledged word.

Thou shalt never brandish thy weapon in anger nor for evil purpose.

Thou shalt perform scrupulously thy feudal duties,
if they be not contrary to the laws of the gods.

Thou shalt be everywhere and always thy champion
of the right, the good, and the true, and forever the
foe of injustice, tyranny, and evil.

Thou shalt fight fair and in honourable fashion.

Thou shalt be generous and give in largesse to everyone.

As he departed the temple calling on a runner to take another scroll to the LaCroix estate he pulled a small satchel over his shoulder, having not spoken a word other than to direct the messenger, he makes his way from the city flooded with memories of his elder brother and the words he had imparted to him before he had left his home for Impiltur.

The voice echoing in his mind as he walked the still streets of the evening in simple traveling garb making each step more weighted than the last.

'To a Knight, courtesy involves more than merely following rules of etiquette.' The words were meant to encourage his younger brother though the trepidation was evident in his face having been through so many trials at the hands of their fathers rivals, the scars still fresh on his back from the latest extortion ploy gone awry, Nicolas offered his youngest brother a warm smile as the walked toward the stables where a modest coach had already been prepared. 'It is
also an attitude, a way of presenting himself to the world.' He continued once he was sure he had regained Faucon's attention.

'A Knight carries himself proudly, maintains self-control, and accepts ill- mannered behaviour with grace.' Faucon looked to him quizzically at this, Nicolas offered him a nod knowing he has had his share of ill- mannered behaviour thrown at him. "So, I should not speak back at an aggressor brother?" The much younger brother was still barely a man and full of frustration Nicolas could only offer him a continuation to his advice. 'A Knight follows social customs to the best of his ability. He is polite and deferential to friends and strangers alike.' Faucon looked dubious to the claim but nodded, his fascination with the Knights had always been the best way to distract him from rash action.

A much older Faucon winced at the memory knowing his first failing had been in this, like the past had returned to reprimand his actions, and perhaps it had. Receiving a curious look from a guard, he simply offered them a nod before departing the district, making his way toward the portal to the surface. His mind still tormenting him for his grievous failing, like a lash he deserved and a burden he would be left to bear.

The coach lurched slightly as they left their home, Faucon could not help but look back to see the manor slowly dwindling into the morning fog. "What of the peasantry brother, surely a Knight being a noble would not be beholden to them as well would they?" Faucon's voice almost cracked as the cart lurched striking a slightly protruding root, Nicolas gave him a wry smile before speaking slowing the cart slightly for ease of conversation and allowing the nag that pulled it to find a comfortable pace. 'Well little brother, that's an excellent question' He offered his younger brother a bit of bread from a small basket he had prepared which would see them to the next village before continuing.

'A Knight considers the feelings of others and takes care not to offend them. Yes little brother even the lowliest urchin is worthy of a Knights consideration.' he chuckled a little giving his young brother a gentle pat of reassurance before speaking on turning the reins with an expert hand to round a bend keeping the coach rolling smoothly. 'A Knight always demonstrates proper manners, shaking hands with friends, expressing gratitude for favours etcetera. A Knight keeps himself immaculately groomed, bathing regularly and wearing clean clothes. Something you would not be done harm to do yourself from time to time you know.' Nicolas again offered his younger brother a warm smile and a soft chuckle at the scrunched face he received for the comment.

'A Knight speaks tactfully and kindly.' He continued as Faucon bit into the bread stubbornly at the light jest. 'A Knight never knowingly insults or slanders another person, even his greatest enemy. If others engage in insults or slander, the Knight simply walks away.' Faucon swallowed his bread stiffly wishing to speak, "But brother, why wouldn't a Knight tell an enemy what a horribly evil thing they are?" Nicolas simply shook his head at this before elaborating. 'A Knight has no room for prideful boasting brother you know this, and should not let pass their fellows should they themselves instigate such.' Faucon nodded to the statement in thought, "I will remember that brother, because it would detract from the honour of the Knight and diminish the respect of those around them correct brother?" Giving Faucon an almost surprise glance, Nicolas nodded to him, 'Yes, that is exactly correct, you actually have been paying attention to your studies.'

The roads and paths of Sundren felt eternally long on this night to Faucon, he paused resting a hand lightly against a lamp post considering his memories, the volatile arguments he has seen across the valley perpetuated by his fellows and even on occasion himself weighed on his mind. Had he upheld any of the lessons his brother had tried to teach him over the years they were in each others company? Setting his jaw tightly he began again his long course across the city intending to spend most of the following day upon the roads as well. His mind continued to race, flitting across the events of the valley and his travels outside of it over the past year. Eventually they continued to wander back to a much more distant past.

They had taken a room at an inn when replenishing supplies as the road had seen little repair, the road had been harsh on both and they had agreed to rest in a bed this night rather than pushing the course on. "There were many soldiers below brother." Faucon spoke without prompting as they were situating the small room to accommodate the two of them after having taken a meal in the common room of the small establishment. Nicolas paused in his task to look pointedly to Faucon on the subject. 'Behave with dignity brother, a Knight refrains from emotional outbursts, excessive eating and drinking, foul language, and other boorish acts. While many may drink, doing so to excess brings dishonour and poor judgement.' The young man stopped in his own chores blinking a little at the stern warning. "Yes brother... I shall." Nicolas lent only a stern nod at the point, though never spoke on the subject again.

The following morning found both siblings in better health and spirits though Faucon remained meek around his brother well into mid morning as they had returned to the road, the potency of his brothers words still reeling him. 'Honesty' Nicolas stated flatly as they had put considerable distance between themselves and the village. 'A Knight always tells the truth as he knows it. He may decline or withhold information, but will never intentionally mislead anyone, even to his enemies. A knight may ask permission not to answer a direct question, but if pressed will tell
the truth he may however, frame his answer so as not to reveal vital information.' gathering an apple from their newly replenished supplies, he handed it to Faucon before retrieving another for himself. 'This is important Faucon above all else I can teach you, you must never forget this. A Knight is bound by honour and deception is the widest road to villainy one may ever find.' Having nearly began to eat his apple, Faucon paused. "Even if it would save the life of another, brother?" Pained Nicolas looked back to the road. 'Yes Faucon, even then...'

[Aniril_Telin]

A Penitent Mind pt2

The winding roads lazily left the the sparse forests and hills of Cormyr behind as they began passing into the Dalelands after a weeks journey. The great canopies alight with a multitude of colours and the songs of the birds sang like a holy choir. Faucon looked on this in awe, "I would wish this beauty on our own lands brother," He began speaking drawing Nicolas' attention from the road briefly, "I promise you we will see such a peaceful land in our own home as this with as great a beauty."

Nicolas offered his young sibling a smile and a slight shake of his head, 'Be vigilant of your words little brother, for a Knight doesn't make promises lightly, but once he gives his word, he always keeps it.' Faucon turned from where he had been leaning to view the world around them with a wry smile, "a promise then? What of marriage brother, you have been courting the same woman for three years now, is it to light a promise to be made?" His intent to tease his older brother was well revived but as always Nicolas had a retort on the subject which continued the lesson. 'As a marriage vow is a promise, a Knight cannot consider a divorce. The only exceptions to this is if the spouse commits an evil deed, abandonment, and the like, then the Knight can divorce.' the younger of the pair watched his brother for a brief moment before speaking again, "So, then you do not know if you love her enough to dedicate the rest of your life to her, despite her charms and beauty brother? Best be cautious lest she decide on another for the waiting brother." Nicolas could only smirk slightly at this, 'Eat your apple Faucon...'

Not long after their conversation on the coach, they had stopped to rest the old nag that pulled them along their long path and stretch out their legs. Having found a couple of sturdy branches the pair had been practising their swordplay in a light hearted manner with joy and laughter when Nicolas lost his footing. Faucon pressed the advantage on his brother, "Ha, do you yield?" he demanded with the same light hearted tone they had shared, while sparring. Nicolas smirked accepting his brothers offered hand to stand looking down at what he'd tripped over. "What is it brother?" Faucon inquired while returning the branches to the wood and off the road where they might interfere with a carts wheel.

'Valour' Came his brothers response who had taken a knee and drew a cross in the air as he voiced the word. Curiously, the young man joined him to see what he had found, and responding to a motion from the elder of the two, he helped unearth the partially buried shield. "What meaning has this brother?" Faucon inquired as they lifted the plate of steel and brushed off the moss to look upon the crest. 'A mark to the fallen little brother, look there, an obelisk.' he pointed within the shaded boarder of the glade and patted his brothers on the shoulder urging him to join as they investigated. Carrying the old shield, Nicolas leaned it against the small shrine to the fallen, touching his hand to his heart.

'A Knight demonstrates unyielding courage in the face of adversity.' Nicolas began to explain without further prompting from his younger brother. 'No danger is too great to prevent him from fulfilling a promise or completing a mission.' The continued explanation was done in tandem to working back vines and branches to reveal the small stone shrine which had several copper crests depicting acts of courage and military depictions embedded into it, long since corroded to a mottled green. 'His commitment is stronger than his fear of pain, hardship or even death.' with the area cleared, he pulled Faucon gently to his side pointing out the symbolism in each of the depictions. 'A Knight's valour is particularly evident on the battlefield. He regards war as a noble enterprise and combat as an opportunity to glorify his patron.' Looking around the area for any other markers of conflict, Nicolas resigned the notion of finding them without a through search looking to Faucon, 'There are many places in this world giving honour to the fallen for their acts of heroism, we offer them our prayers and respect and tread lightly on such hallowed ground should we know it. Come little brother, let us leave this one in peace.'

The image of the dark skinned wood elf's unconscious face reeled Faucon as his mind was drawn closer to the present, the Castrum softly alight with the first vestiges of the dawn. Pausing a moment, he looked accusingly at his own hand, seeing a young boy, who could barely have seen a dozen winters, Faucon approached the young urchin reaching into his satchel and taking out a small rolled parchment bound in a red ribbon with three small charms on a chain dangling from it. 'Do you know the way to the Triumverate young man?' His inquiry snapped the attention of the boy, who nodded cautiously to him. 'Good, take this missive to them, and make haste. Seek also a meal, and rest there.' The boy opened his mouth to speak as Faucon thrust the letter into his hand, grabbing the boys other hand and placing five golden stags on his palm. "who d'you think .... oh, tha's a lot fer a letter mister must be real importan', what say I don't jus take yer money and ditch th' letter?" Faucon offered the youth a small smile and a single word before departing. 'Faith'

With steady procession, he marched up the hill toward the tower which housed the only point of access to the city, shouldering his satchel once more to adjust it's placement Faucon pulled open the heavy door entering the halls still replaying the horror of unveiling what he felt sure was another Drow slipping it's insidious form into that of the noble elves of the valley. No beast but a simple proud fool, with nothing to gain in his posturing but rebuke. Faucon closed his eyes as the magic of the portal enveloped him, the scene of the event s playing over and over again in his mind. Insistence in the voices that were around him demanding no one act changes the spirit of a person but a lifetime of good or ill. Slowly opening his eyes, he began his decent from the tiers of the lower side of the portal, the single stroke of his blade like a crushing strike on his very soul. As if his single act cascaded in so many arching lights striking all around him, the fact of the Elf's survival does little to comfort him, as he is once more assaulted by his memories.

'A Knight attacks an enemy without hesitation,' Nicolas had begun making a habit of imparting his lessons on Valour when they would stop to rest the nag, eat and spar keeping their skills sharp and bodies healthy on the long journey to Impiltur, 'continuing to fight until the enemy
withdraws or is defeated.' With a flourish, Nicolas sent Faucon's block wide but rather than pressing him, he stepped back from his brothers now broken defence. 'Whenever possible, a Knight chooses the most formidable enemy as his primary opponent.' He continued the lesson parrying his brothers renewed assault with ease, his words unbroken and measured movements conserving his strength while Faucon winded himself flurrying blow after blow at Nicolas' patient defence. 'Powerful monsters, a giant, a dragon, or the leader of an army are the enemies of choice to the knight.' with a single powerful stroke, he knocked the training blade from Faucon's hand setting down his own to take a drink of water from a small table they had set for the purpose.

After retrieving his blade, Faucon rejoined his brother accepting an offered cup of water setting down his own blade. "What determines a worthy foe for a Knight then brother? I though they were to strike down any foe regardless of origin if found villainous." Nicolas nodded to him after lowering his own cup to speak. 'Honour' he began, 'A Knight shows mercy to the repentant, and refuses to inflict undue suffering, even on the vilest evildoer. A knight knows his blade is a weapon of great power, guided by the will of the gods and honour demands he respect this responsibility and only use it when there is no other alternative.' Faucon having more fully caught his breath pondered this statement a time before continuing his inquiry while aiding in gathering their rest area back to the coach. "But there are many tales of Knight taking duels and other Challenges of honour unto themselves or others those tales always speak of the Knights blade, how is this not a contradiction?" Nicolas pulled hard on the last of the straps securing their belongings before responding as they returned to the road.

[Aniril_Telin]

A Penitent Mind pt3

'A Knight accepts all challenges to duel given by those of comparable status and power,' he began as the coach lurched forward and they began their trek once more having passed through the wood, they would soon be taking a ship from Sembia and their long road would be coming to a close, Faucon hung one each of his brothers words, as he would not be remaining in Impiltur. 'A challenge from an arrogant youngster or a drunken warrior may go unheeded you see, as they would not be honourable as they would not be equal to the challenge and thus it would dishonour the Knight to do combat with them.' He waited for a sign of understanding from Faucon, who nodded to him to signify this before he continued, their course had led them through the waning forest and nearer to the coast. The smell of the sea while feint at this distance was a profound change from that of the dense wood. 'A Knight conducts himself with integrity regardless of circumstance,' he continued while fishing out some bread from their supplies breaking the small loaf in half and offering a share to Faucon. 'He behaves in a morally sound manner even when he's by himself or when no one else will know of his actions. It is an admirable act to comfort a dying friend, but an act of honour to comfort a dying enemy.' Faucon paused in thought to this, his brow furrowed at the notion, "But what if the Knight is the cause of the enemies death, how would he comfort them?"

The valley is always cold, the deeper chill of autumn biting through the early morning as Faucon walked the length of Pioneers way. Once more the vision of that stroke played in his mind, the elf had moved behind him, but he'd not looked to see if he held a blade or not, it didn't matter, determination had made Faucon blind to reason. He shook his head at himself in shame as he passed the farms along the path their barren stalks bending low preparing for the long winter months. 'a lifetime of evil deeds make one evil no single act taints a soul.' The voice in the back of his mind made him chuckle darkly at his own failings. A single stroke of his blade pulled at the last moment to spare the life of an evil being that they might find redemption did not change the lack of armaments. Ensuring he was healed did not bring comfort to the man as he passed what was once Tyr's fork, the statue once proud now lay in ruin.

Pausing to offer a silent prayer before the statue, he pulled his satchel over his shoulder once more pulling tight his gloves against the chill of the north wind, shivering at Auril's biting seasons, he pressed on. Death before dishonour an adage spoken to nearly every military force through the annals of time. The wind and his failings drew a tear ad he bore north, bound for the keep and a steady vigil need not pass him by the second wind, though the surrounding wood offered more protection from the weather. An old man, sat at the side of one of the northernmost farms as the knight shrouded in disgrace passed, a single tin cup beside him. He plead for coin and without thinking it over Faucon obliged with a handful from his coin-purse without offering either the man or the cup another glance, a heavy scarf bulled op against the weather, like a hammer, his memories struck him blow after bow.

Sembia sprawled along the coast like a lazily sleeping beast, the din of trade and bustling people danced in a cacophony with the heavy scent of the sea. Scantly clad women stood in many places along the streets causing Faucon to redden, Nicolas laughed a little at his brothers discomfort driving the coach on slowly through the streets to the stables which had been arranged in anticipation of their arrival. "What is this place brother? a den of temptation, why would we wish to pass this place to reach Impiltur?" The young man clutched at his tunic as though ensuring he was properly dressed would dismiss the vision of indecency before him.

'A challenge like that of the field little brother.' Nicolas had rejoined him after settling accounts for the stable. 'come' he beckoned to Faucon who scurried to his brothers side at the call. 'The ship is waiting for us, and the tide will not hold forever little brother.' Faucon gave Nicolas a nod as they made their way to the docks, drunken midday brawls spotted the sides of the road, as merchants plied their wares between them. Spotting one such brawler who wore a crest of a Knight Faucon turned to his brother inquisitively. "I thought you had said a Knight does not participate in such boorish things brother?" Nicolas hurried their pace slightly before responding, some contempt in his voice for the man, 'That is no Knight little brother, a Knight dies before compromising his principles, betraying his liege or faith, or
abandoning a protected charge.'

The vessel that had been hired for the purpose of ferrying him across the sea came into view as they reached the cities docks, a small schooner rocking gently on it's moorings the rigging slapping the masts in a bell-like rhythm as though beckoning it's crew and passengers to board. 'A Knights defends the weak. Obeys all just orders from his superiors without hesitation or question. An order that is considered unjust, in that it disobeys the will of the Gods may be challenged or disobeyed.' Nicolas turned to face his younger brother, 'This will be as far as I may go with you little brother, once aboard the ship you will be on your own. Faucon lent him a concerned look but his own determination held true giving Nicolas a slight smile and a nod. 'I have something for you little brother, that you may always remember during your schooling.' He handed Faucon a small book which outlined many of the lessons his brother had shared with him in its own way.

[Aniril_Telin]

A True Knight

A True Knight is Honourable

A True Knight must accept responsibility for the one thing that is within his control,
himself.

A True Knight must always keep their word, realizing that a person who's word is as
good as their bond is held in high esteem by all.

A True Knight must never speak harshly or critically of a Brother or Sister, unless it
be in private and tempered with the love we have for each other. Always speaking to
him or her for the purpose of aiding him to be a better Knight.

A True Knight must always rely on his or her instincts and those lessons taught to
him throughout the course of his Knightly career when deciding right from wrong.

A True Knight Shows Excellence

A True Knight must commit to excellence, and seek the highest level of excellence in
all aspects of his or her life.

A True Knight must always excel in his education, putting forth his best effort in all
his school works.

A True Knight must always excel in bearing, keeping his or her attitude and conduct
above reproach. He or she should always be aware that it is through their bearing
that our Division be judged by.

A True Knight has Courage

A True Knight must have the courage to stand up for those principles which he or she
believes are right, especially in the presence of those who oppose the cardinal
virtues of the Knighthood.

A True Knight is never afraid to defend their own rights and those of others.

A True Knight shall always stand to defend the rights of the weak, the oppressed, and
the downtrodden.

A True Knight is Loyal

A True Knight shall always remain loyal to the Order of Knighthood.

A True Knight shall, at all times, remain loyal to his brothers.

A True Knight is Generous

A True Knight shall be generous with his time, always endeavouring to share his
knowledge and experience with the younger Knight.

A True Knight shall always offer to help and assist whenever the need should require
it.

A True Knight shall demonstrate his generosity anonymous and by example, placing
the needs of others above his own.

A True Knight is Well-Spoken

A True Knight shall not engage in vulgarity.

A True Knight shall always be heard speaking favourably about the Order of
Knighthood and his kingdom in general.

A True Knight is Discreet

A True Knight shall maintain all confidences reposed in him.

A True Knight shall not engage in any conversation that demeans any woman in
particular, or women in general.

A True Knight shall not engage in slander, realizing that that which is unseen is
unknown.

A True Knight shall keep to himself those things which are seen, but may cause
physical or emotional damage to another.

A True Knight shall keep his relationship with his lady private, and not hold their
relationship up to public scrutiny.

A True Knight is Pure

A True Knight shall not, in any manner, bring shame upon himself or Knighthood.

A True Knight shall not consume anything that hinders their fighting ability or
thinking ability to the point of being useless to the land in which they serve.

A True Knight is Wise

A True Knight shall endeavour to use the tenets of the Knighthood and the lessons of
life to prevent foolish actions.

A True Knight shall always hold the tenet 'Think twice before speaking once' as the
basis for all his or her dealings with others.

A True Knight shall always attempt to apply practical knowledge to all of the
situations he or she faces.

A True Knight is Courteous

A True Knight shall always take the time to display those courtesies which we all are
entitled to, remembering that familiarity does not serve as an exception.

A True Knight shall always attempt to make others feel welcome and appreciated
when visiting the Knight's Lodge.

A True Knight shall be patient and understanding when working with a younger
Knight or Squire.

A True Knight shall respect the fact that others have their own opinions, and not
require them to adopt his own.

A True Knight is Just

A True Knight shall not value himself above others or feel that he should be singled
out for special treatment.

A True Knight shall refrain from judging others based on outward appearances or
characteristics.

A True Knight shall treat all people with fairness and honesty, regardless of their
station in life.

A True Knight shall, when asked to, mediate a dispute between two Knights, judge
fairly, honestly and without malice, taking into consideration the effects of his
decision on his fellow knights and the Knighthood.

[Aniril_Telin]

Waking from Silence pt1

The night breeze danced through the ruins of the Arbiters Stand tussling debris from the old castle around like a bored child pushes their toys while deciding what to do. Faucon continued his penitent prayer, barely aware that his meagre supplies had been depleted nearly two days prior. In a combination of prayer, dehydration and malnourishment, the approach of heavily plated boots didn't register to the man. General Dryn Stonewhisperer kept his distance, his heavy grey beard weighted for the purpose of limiting unwanted movement hung heavily over his armour. The older Dwarf still in physical prime yet showing his wisdom and age to those who would look upon his countenance, measured the human's demeanour not wishing to interrupt his prayers. Frowning a bit as he took in the sight of the Paladin, a man who had always accorded himself in pristine appearance, now threadbare and sickly in his desperate search for absolution.

Watching and waiting, the old dwarf's mind raced through the possible situations that could find this man is such a state. In his interactions with religious reconciliation, the dwarf had never personally witnessed a penitent driven so dangerously far past the limits of their health. While contemplating this thought, a short distance away, Faucon ceased his prayer. The Knight's gaze suddenly fell, downcast, he slumped to a knee. Jarred from his thoughts, the dwarf hastily jerked forward, concern written on his expression, relaxing as he notes the man had caught himself allowing for a more casual approach. The night air added resonance to the heavy plated boot fall of the dwarf as he crossed the old weathered flagstones of the ruined castle. Echoing into the night, any casual observer would have been assaulted by the sound, the dishevelled Knight however gave no indication of acknowledgement or awareness to the General's presence.

Faucon's hand clutched at his collar where his holy symbols once hung, his eyes pleadingly fixed on a stone in the wreckage which was once the proud defence of the keep. The dwarf's approach halted a moment as he followed Faucon's gaze to the stone on the wall where recently and carefully the single word, 'Faith' had been etched. Kneeling beside the empty satchel he removed his right gauntlet setting it upon the ground, the dwarf fished through his own provisions, transferring clean, fresh water and salted meats within Faucon's bag. In the distance, another form appeared, a much younger looking dwarf than the General approached the two men. Heavy boot-falls once more echoed through the night as the new arrival joined them. Surveying the scene before him, Brunus Ironbreaker's one remaining eye met the gaze of the General and the two dwarves shared a silent greeting, as the General placed both water and meat aside for Faucon to eat and drink readily.

"Funny, ah remember when this place was whole." The younger battle hardened dwarf remarked idly while he briefly glanced around the destroyed courtyard of the castle. "Who's tha' brother?" His idle question levelled to the General as his gaze had returned to Faucon and Dryn. 'Faucon De'Ombre, one of the triad,' came the hushed response from the older dwarf his voice kept low in an attempt not to disturb the man's devotions as Faucon had once more returned to prayer. 'It seems something has greatly troubled his mind,' the continued explanation came in serendipitous time with a gesture from the Knight as he drew a triangle in the air unsteadily closing his latest silent prayer. With eyes glazed by fatigue, Faucon turned to look upon the pair who had joined him, if he recognised the General no expression to the fact betrayed him save evident defeat.

With a brow raised, Brunus looked the human over curiously before speaking, "ye found him like this?" The question somewhere between query and observation the General answered dutifully, his concern still on the man before him, he offered a single nod, 'just as you have, aye.' the younger dwarf returned a moment to look over Faucon once more, "and how long ye' been here?" his questions continuing to probe for understanding of the situation, he looked once more to the General. Faucon's return to his prayers gathered the pair's attention for a brief moment before the older dwarf responded, 'under an hour brother,' came the response his tone still softened in respect for the man at prayer. Looking once more to the Knight, the General removed his left gauntlet placing it beside him, 'I feel duty bound to renew his strength,' his explanation was followed by action as he placed his hand upon the ground and began to chant.

A whirl of shimmering green slowly and gently rose from the ground encasing Faucon, like a gentle mist lifting from the hills at dawn. As the cocoon encompassed him, Faucon closed his eyes, the energy of the Terran spirits began to revitalize him. The pallid tone which had come to his skin from lack of adequate nourishment subsided and his eyes became clear once more in recognition of his surroundings. The heavy sound of the chant reverberated through the stone of the ruins granting a semblance of life to each and every stone. As the chant comes to a close and the old dwarf beseeched the spirit of the stone to lend Faucon aid to shoulder his transgressions and continue his work in the valley, Brunus cast General Stonewhisperer a questioning glance as the cocoon continued to rejuvenate the man. "Shouldn't we move him somewhere?" the question fell against the sound of the lightly grumbling din of the stones in the area. As the old general lifted his hands from the ground, he tuned his attention to his fellow dwarf, 'I would have him move himself brother,' his gaze turned then to regard Faucon once more, 'if such is possible.'

As he returned his gauntlets to his hands, while the whirling energies subsided from Faucon, Dryn waited patiently as the man slowly began to regain his senses. Several times, Faucon opened and shut his eyes attempting to focus, with a brief survey of his surroundings, he took note of the provisions which had been provided, lowering his head in thanks to the dwarves. Attentions swung around after the brief recovery of the Knight as yet another joined them within the ruins, a human dressed in rough garb and a simple hat approached.

'Days be blessed good people,' called the man in greeting, his scarred face turning with a garish smile, his cheeks lifting exaggerating the deep old wound which had claimed an eye. The newcomer lifted a hand in greeting noting Dryn and Brunus pointedly, 'and two dwarves,' the notation drew Brunus' attention from the recovering Knight briefly while Dryn held his attention lending Faucon a smile with his greeting, 'Hail, Faucon De'Ombre,' the Knight returned the warm smile in greeting and recognition however any voiced response was cut off by a bawdy comparison of appearances between this new human and Brunus.

Still slightly dazed, Faucon noted the man removing his hat and speaking with Brunus though the dwarf appeared barred and braced in place. A stout barrier between the two humans, the younger of the two dwarves widened his stance slightly glowering at this new arrival and appeared less than amused as the man made a crude comparison of familiarity between Brunus' appearance and his own. Dryn maintaining vigilant watch over Faucon for the moment paid them no heed as the Knight once more made a mark to the three in the air, far more steadily and assuredly than he had before.

'Where the hell did you lose your eye?!' the man's demand caught Faucon's attention briefly as he had began taking in his surroundings more thoroughly. 'Drow vile blade, some two-hundred an ten years ago' Brunus' response was flat and to the point. The mention of Drow suddenly caught Faucon up, his hand reaching for the hilt of a sword that was not there, eyes scanning the area in a hyper-vigilant tension. If Faucon's reaction had caught the scarred man's attention he gave no sign of it as he continued his questions. 'Whatcha' doin here fellas?' an anxious gaze hastily surveyed the area as a hopeful thought escaped the man, 'looting?'. A moment was spared as the man looked over each of the three in the ruins appraisingly, realization cutting of his continued inquiry as he spoke, 'two-hundred and ten years?!' the echoed time spat forth with a curse in astonishment, 'you're kidding me right?' the disbelief evident in the lowered tone with which the man now spoke. 'I am not,' Brunus' flat response offered no welcome to this vulgar human as he continued his matter-of-fact explanation, 'and we be helping this man.' his gesture to Faucon barely parted his gaze from the scarred face of the man as he spoke.

Lingering thoughts slowly find their way to the surface, the man blinks a bit at the concept before speaking, 'you ar' two hundred an' hey mate not even m' well, you are shorty, can be.' The jarring broken thoughts were followed by a sincere nod of acceptance from the man, 'I...I think it's alright.' The mans scarred face lit up at a thought slightly a certain shine to his remaining eye. 'So, about the loot, rescuing, can I join?' A near palpable lust for riches began to seep from the man, 'did you find something interestin'?' As the man drew nearer, he jabbed a crooked finger at the air to the side indicating the inner keep, and sole surviving structure of the stand. 'There used to be an armoury there!'