Eleanor - Fragments, Records and Notes

[MedalOfValor]

Letters to family

*Clean, milky white envelope addressed to Robert Ford, Daggerford Guard, containing a letter of credit for whole 500 gold coins and a folded note stuck next to it. Upon unfolding it, few sentences scribbled on a piece of high quality parchment would reveal themselves. Regardless of a very poor handwriting, resembling that of a child, the words send home are still legible.*

*The first three words are written in ink, however a nasty blotch follows them. The author attempted to transform the blotch into a drawing of flower. The rest of the letter is written in charcoal instead.*

I send money *blotch of ink* with a letter of credit Robbie, use it in a bank, the coin is for our family at home, bring it to Granny or Marianna over your break. Those coins are my squire pay! You see I am well and lucky and Triad looks over me, as I always told you. I have become a squire to Lady Head Watchknight Sveta Asperan. I hope you and Jamie are well, I love you and miss you all, girls the most. Will send some more coins in time, our support combined should keep them fed and happy for a while, but make sure father doesn't know. I keep you in my prayers, may the gods protect you and guide your steps.

Ellie

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Prayers

~To the Triad~
Prayer for Grandmaster Arkaine's soul

1. I kneel in front you my Lords, my beloved Triad, humble servant with my simple words, to ask for aid. Not for me, but for one of Helm's servants, Grandmaster Akraine. I beg you to hear me out.
   I know little of death and what it does to a being's soul. He says we loose piece of our soul each time we die, and if that's true, if he indeed died many times, then his soul must be shattered and wounded.
   I felt the rage, anger and the unspeakable depth of loss over his fellow squires and over his own inability to protect them. There was fear, we all fear, even the braves of us. His wounded heart and soul driven with rage pushed him into something, I believe, he fears the most. Only with your help my lords he can avoid the corruption of the remnants of his soul.
   I beg you to help him braid together the strands of himself he has left, strengthen them, show him the light and the joy, help him remember the feeling that filled him when his squires were returned to him.
   Guide him, so the blind anger which he things excuses his actions does not drove him over the edge of a heated vengeance as that is not the way of Helmite to conduct himself. Help him be a better judge of his own actions and of the wrongs he committed. I beg you, my beloved Triad, to provide him with understanding and inner peace and your ever healing love.
   I pay to you on his behalf, as I saw firsthand how broken he feels, how that pushes him to do things that are not within the teachings we receive.
   I beg you to forgive him and aid him, so he does not go astray losing his holy purpose to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
   I humble myself in front of you my Lords, hopeful, compassionate and determined. I offer you my deepest devotion, my heart and my soul.

***

~To Other Gods~
Prayer to Helm for Grandmaster Arkaine

• Lord Helm, I stand before you, humble and honest servant of Triad.
  I pray for you to see one of your honorable followers, Grandmaster Arkaine, struggling with his duties due to his soul's torment.
  Protect him, as his is your own, protect his shattering hear and soul so he may serve you to the best of his abilities.
  I beg to notice him being in dire need of protection, guidance as well of your love and forgiveness for failing in his duties.
  
  I also thank you form the bottom of my heart for sending your servant Lady Sveta Asperan my way. I am most grateful of that gift and I swear not to waste that opportunity.

***

Thoughts

Dame Asperan wants me to work on my writing so here I am, writing gibberish down. I still fail to see why do I have to make my words look pretty on parchment. Isn't it enough that they are legible? Still, I will obey the order.
The Head Watchknight offered me to stay which will allow her to keep a closer eye on my training and progress. For now I'm working on my posture so I can wear a full plate armor someday. The very armor that belonged to Dame Asperan not so very long ago. That only adds to the list of things I'm really grateful for. I have to keep the place clean and prepare meals. It will be so easy comparing to what I remember from home. Especially given that the Head Watchknigh is a really tidy person. So unlike my siblings.

I found another evil paper containing a forbidden, evil spell that makes dead people move. Like the previous one I gave this one to Lady Telia Navra. She said she will give it to Goddess of magic as all magic belongs to her. I hope that means it will get destroyed by Mystra so no one will make the dead move.
The Head Watchknigh managed to have her spar with Brother Ameris, she won this one however the duel was... how to say it.. balanced? It was exciting and educational to watch. Later on Brother Ameris won in a duel against the Hoarite Tegeus. He should have used his spear, but given that Ilmateri priest wasn't using his weapon of choice, that seemed only fair.

I also had my first friendly spar yesterday with another newcomer to the city, Ilmateri and former militia woman, miss Reine. Despite my lack of experience in fighting I managed to win this time. I guess my frequent trips to the graveyard to chase after zombies in order to destroy them plus the exercise regiment paid off. I am yet to learn how to wield a sword but the club will do for now.In order to complete my training for that day I had to take my leave, so I didn't see the duel between mister Crow and the Head Watchknight. I wonder how it went.

[MedalOfValor]

Eleanor's written thoughts can be seen left upon her drawer scribbled upon, and accompanied by a note

The title of Lady is one reserved for nobility, however addressing a woman of high stature as Lady is generally acceptable. Dame is the title of a female knight, a title one day you will hold. When addressing a person by their title address them either by their family name, or their given name followed by their given name. For example, Dame Asperan, or Dame Sveta Asperan.

The phrase 'Writing gibberish down' was a flowing continuation of a previous sentence and could have been paused by a comma, rather than being broken by a full-stop. It is not simply gibberish I wish for you to write. I will speak with you at dinner about what I would like for you to write about.

There is a level of formality I will expect in writing to important figures, tidy handwriting and articulate structure will be required in that regard. First impression upon such documents are vital. Leaving your letter with the possibility to be dismissed, or taken with less regard due to poor handwriting will be a disservice to your aim in sending the letter.

When addressing someone by their title alone it should be lead by 'the'. The Head Watchknight offered... or Head Watchknight Sveta Asperan offered...

There were a few cases where you neglected capitalization of in reference to the gods, and a few sentences could be restructured. overall I am impressed.

Be sure to remind me of this over dinner. I have something for you in regard to it.

*Finding the parchment in the early morning the girl rewrites her text while preparing a light breakfast for herself and Dame Asperan. Once preparations are concluded the young squire wakes the knight. After short meal both women leave the residence for a morning training session.*

[PiaMango]

A journal of thoughts

*As dinner is served upon the table by her Squire Sveta retrieves a leatherbound book, setting it beside Eleanor's placemat. The pages contained by the journal show to be blank as it is opened. As Sveta takes her seat opposite her Squire she speaks.*

"I wish for you to write your thoughts within this book, marking each entry with the date. Write of your thoughts, ambitions, hopes, ideas, opinions, people you meet, anything that comes to mind. For me to guide you Squire I need to understand what is going on in that mind of yours. Leave every second page blank for me to make comments upon your entries. Now, will you lead us in grace."

[MedalOfValor]

*Elly regards the book for a moment, then a smile shows on her features.*

"I will do so, head watchknight!." *Young squire says with the usual dosage of enthusiasm audible in her voice.*

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Thoughts

10th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Living in a city is so much different from the life in a village in many terms, work, customs, routines and so on, but mostly because so much is happening everyday. Lady Navra took few of us with her to some remote location to save Brother Ameris and Commander Eldarian - whose last name escaped me - from some curse that left them both mumbling in a mud like little kids. Luckily Dame Asperan managed to help them, channeling the will of Helm though a magic paper.

All this evoke a need for a call to arms, and I am far from disagreeing with Brother Ameris on this matter, more so I have to enhance my training so I'm able to assist them in whatever action they chose to take against the evil dwelling in that crypt. That being said I'd better get to it right away.

11th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Being unable to sleep I caught up on my reading. Stories and poetry left by Head Watchknight for me to read through. Knowing very little about poetry I find it challenging, its meaning vague and hidden seem to mimic a foe that tries to deceive you, showing something entirely different from what he really means. Nevertheless I managed to find one I like and oddly enough, understand.

1. 'Hope' is the thing with feathers
   That perches in the soul
   And sings the tune without the words
   And never stops at all
   
   And sweetest in the Gale is heard
   And sore must be the storm
   That could abash the little Bird
   That kept so many warm
   
   I've heard it in the chillest land
   And on the strangest Sea
   Yet, never, in Extremity,
   It asked a crumb of Me.

I can feel the fatigue and the pain from the training regime. And the evening training with miss Reine. Yet still I am unable to fall asleep even after a long prayer. Dame Asperan words ring in my head. My mentor requires me not to search for love during my squireship, but to search for it later on. As if that was some rich and important experience to have. I disagree firmly with that statement and yet the whole discussion leaves me somewhat confused. Obviously, a knight should know the meaning of love. The love that binds family, siblings, friends and comrades, but is it really that important to know the other kind of love? The one that can bring confusion, can prove to be a distraction form once chosen path and duties? My great-grandmother once she married stopped pursuing her dream of becoming a knight herself, settling for being a local priestess in small, remote village far from anything worthy of mentioning. She never, of course, regretted her decision having a good, honest life, but when I think about that, it doesn't seem right. A knight need to stay focused on her goal, on her path laid in front of her by the gods. Duty once taken cannot be discarded for a sake of some romantic silliness. That is simply wrong.

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*A routine begins to form in their training. Every second morning after breakfast Sveta partakes and acts as a personal training for Eleanor in intense weight lifting exercises focusing on strengthening her shoulders, arms, and core muscles. Each other morning is focused upon sword play, using blunted training swords Sveta would leave the occasional bruise on Eleanor to mark her mistakes. She emphasizes the importance of footwork and channeling her whole body through her sword, often making a fuss if she sees Eleanor in an improper stance/grip. Sveta would then often leave Eleanor to her own training if Sveta herself didn't have any specific tasks for her in mind. During the evenings when she returns home Sveta would actively engage Eleanor in conversation seeming to enjoy her company. When their conversation dies out after dinner Sveta would most nights make them go through a short sparring reinforcing what was taught in the morning, after such Sveta would often retire to her private quarters to read/write letters/read in the comfort of her bed. A note is left upon Eleanor's drawer, she may get the idea that this will be the common inbox for Sveta's note for her*


Squire,

I do hope you will be able to attend the tournament I am hosting the day after tomorrow. If you will be able to make it I have a request for your assistance in running the betting of the event. It will be simple enough, simply taking names, who they're betting for and how much. Endelyon will be able to do all the calculations in how much the winners will receive. If you are able to help out be sure to talk to me about it tomorrow.

You will find the first draft of my opening speech for the tournament with this note. I would like to hear your thoughts upon it. I hope to make it more uplifting without dragging on for too long.

Helm's guidance,
Sveta Asperan

*Young squire scribbles a short remark under the speech prepared by Head Watchknight*

I'd add a short prayer to bless everyone. Other than that it is very neat.

OOC: Poem belongs rightfully to Emily (person).

[PiaMango]

To her Squire

*After a long day attending the Spheres festival followed by a draining field training exercise Sveta heads out after supper bringing a wagon under the setting sky eastward. Collecting the dire boars carcases she returns under a starlit night. It is not till late that Sveta returns to her residence, however before setting to bed she writes within Eleanor's under candlelight leaving it open on her drawer for her to find in the morrow.*

13th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Squire, perhaps my words came at a misunderstanding. Love and care for our friends and family affirms our beliefs in acting with compassion and empathy. It is a force that can bring understanding between foreign beliefs. Before our next training exercise with Reine I will need to talk to you both about what it means to wield a sword and to be a knight.

The other side of love can be as much an inspiration as a distraction, and you will have the freedom as allowed by the oaths you chose to swear. Some knights devote their lives to celibacy as purity in upholding their ideals they live by. However that in itself can lead to inanition, which is a disservice to your duty. Again, it will be to your liberty.

There are a few books of poetry that I lent to a friend these past tendays. I would wish to hear your thoughts upon the messages they convey. Do not view the meaning of poetry as an act of deception but rather a freedom of interpretation. A poem need not necessarily mean the same to each and every person, they can even grow more in meaning than the poet had originally intended.

Last evening after you departed for the night Reine confirmed her acceptance of the Cadetship. You will find training alongside another of similar skill of a great boon. I can see a bright future in you both. Circumstances however have since risen, we will need to double both yours, and Reine's training. Your swords will be needed in the battle which is to come.

Pack for travel on the morrow, we are journeying south.

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

12th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

My days are filled with exercises, training sessions, reading, writing and evening discussions with Head Watchknight. Having always been busy but also surrounded by chaos, I take pleasure in the way my live seems to be organized. Every morning starts with light breakfast and prayers either at home or at the Ilmateri chapel. Then there is training which is followed by work either on the local farms or with some other errands. More training or shopping and preparing dinner. Quiet time in the company of books, chores around the house just to tend to another part of the exercise regime later. Serious talks during supper shared with Dame Asperan, evening prayers and some time to think before bed. All this gives me the feeling of purpose.

The tournament came, evening of hard, a bit frustrating work. Despite my wish to watch the fights, didn't have much chance to do that, being to busy with taking note of the bets and coin given to me. Yet that was the duty to be fulfilled and the cause was all I needed to feel motivated. In addition to that I met Lady Lafayette and to my surprise she heard about me and even express a wish to speak to me at some point. Makes me wonder why someone of her esteem would want to speak to me. I suppose I have to wait and soon enough time will tell. At the end of a very exhausting evening we managed to collect around 150bags of coin.

Later today another charity event will take place, called Spheres where glass spheres filled with coin donated during Highcoin will be thrown over the harbor, to shatter during the fall. Once that happens poor citizens of the poor district can collect the gold, they find. However unusual that tradition may seem to me I think it's nice in its own way. Different relief efforts are focused on different outcomes, and besides does it really matter in the end, if the overall goal to make the poor less poor, the unhappy less miserable is achieved?

Some part of my head is still occupied with the vision I had. I don't think it was a dream as it felt too real. I believe I have to share it with Head Watchknigh during dinner. Maybe she can make anything out of it.

13th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

The Spheres were conducted without much of a trouble. However before it started many voiced their concerns about safety measures, crowd control and so on. Together with Head Watchknigt and Watchknigt Ghrim we patrolled the streets to make enure anyone's safety. The moment the spheres were released into the air was a memorable one.

Later on Ghrim, miss Reine, me and Dame Asperan went on a training session. Listening to the lecture and observing every singe movement made by those more advanced was very educating. Two big boars were struck down on our way home which gave me an excellent idea about what to make for dinner. During which I told Head Watchknight about my vision.

I realized also, how much wards granted by allies help during fighting. I met Dame Erza, Heartwarder the other day and she offered me some blessing of protection together with mister Tegeus. Wards made me so much more resilient and stronger, but once they were taken by some hostile shaman all the power was gone. A lesson to remember.

During my usual training session in the Hilltop ruins I ran into a mage in a devil or demon form. I don't know the difference to be honest. He or she questioned my faith, suggesting that if I don't know for sure that I am Triad's chosen I may have been used by some evil deity. The mage asked me also to learn about my faith and its orders more as I didn't know about the Hall of Justice in Waterdeep. I intend to find out however, what are those Justicars.

14th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Met Lady Erza again, she was kind enough to grant me some of her goddess blessings on my way to the forest. This day was filled mostly with martial training given I had really good luck with finding company, first with mister Tad, who took me with him to hunt Trolls and Gnolls. Later on I met mister Corvus and mister Marvel. Despite mister Corvus'es grumpiness he is a good person, warded both me and mister Marvel, whose weapon of choice is a crossbow which he calls Mathilda, so we could manage against the overgrown dogs. In the late afternoon I had a chance to fight against hordes of xsvarts with some randomly met group, that dispersed rather quickly after we got overrun. Closing training for the day was again with Head Watchknight and miss Reine. I wish Reine gave herself a bit more credit and time to get back to shape. As well as accepted the fact that good equipment is a must during either training or real fight. But I guess her ilmateri point of view on that matter complicates the situation.

Dame Asperan told us during the training about a sentient sword that the Everwatch was in possession for a while and which is connected to to Abel and by extension the the lich from the visions. This whole situation seemed rather complex and complicated, at least form what I gathered while listening to Head Watchknight's story.

[PiaMango]

From the Just Knight to her Pupils

*Over the past week Sveta would notice a change happening in her residence. Not longer does it look so austere and spartan due to few simple, yet elegant small flower vases filled with different kind of bouquets, a new colorful, woolen rug placed in front of the door. But most of all, the homely feeling seems to be caused by the ever present smell of homemade food. The little pantry attached to the residence has been filled with necessary supplies. Every meal prepared by the young squire however simple and unrefined tastes really good. There is always breakfast and lunch bag prepared for Sveta waiting for her in the morning. And it is virtually impossible for the young girl to let her mentor skip dinner if she has any say in the matter.*

*After finishing transferring the sacks of food for the soup kitchen into the temple of Ilmater the Head Watchknight returns to her residence, thanking her young recruits for completing the task set upon them. She retires briefly to private quarters, returning to them in a casual plain top, her masculine figure more apparent than normal. Sveta's demeanor seems to take match to the theme of her casual attire.

While the smell of boar filled the house as it was prepared she speaks with her recruits. Her tone is light as she speaks to them about topics such as the cat Silvyr, the battle with its flees that ensued, of the sparring with Cecilia the day prior and as always complimenting Eleanor's cooking. It seems the bulky Dame's love for a good hearty meal is one of the few things that rivals her passion for swordplay. That being said she would gently encourage the addition of some flavours, herbs, spices, and compliments, specifically mushrooms.

As dinner is set Sveta pulls the pair away from the meal to speak. After their long day of travel the smell of the dinner is probably fresh in their mind and stomachs. She hands them each the blunt training swords they have each grown familiar with over the past tendays. Sveta standing before them with her own, some sternness returning to her demeanor.*

“There were a few things I wished to speak with you both on. The first, etiquette. I believe all three of us grew up in rural districts where social graces were not the norm, however that is not where we find ourselves today. We stand not only as representatives of our faiths, but of the Everwatch Knights also. I wish for you both to keep a mind on your choice of words while you are out representing us.

That does not mean I wish for you to refrain from jests, merely to reserve any negative, blunt comments about anyone if stating them will not achieve any good. There are times and places when social graces will be required, and there are times and places for when they will not. This house here is one where they're not. I would prefer for you both to refer to me as Sveta, only while within this house.

Next I wish to talk about what it means to be a knight. As a knight I devote my life for a better realm, one in where peace, order and liberty reign true. My arms are drawn in conviction of upholding those ideals so others need not. I fight so that the people of the realm have the freedom to dictate their livelihood, so long as it does not harm another's. My duty is as much as it is to our gods as it is to the realm and its people that we stand wardens to.

It is through the oaths we swear to that we stand bastions to those ideals, taking stands for those who cannot. The weak, the injured, the oppressed, it is our duty to take upon their battles to ease their suffering and ensure justice is met, tempered with compassion. Holding a noble heart in knowing right from wrong, and the drive to stand up for that is one of the greatest attributes a knight can hold. Eleanor, I was impressed with the passion you stood up to the Grandmaster HalfOrken. It is your actions that led to atonement being made by the Doombringer, and the lives of four squires returned.

The heart is as much the greatest virtue of a knight as it is their greatest vulnerability. This realm is rife with vile creatures, worshipers of the undignified gods, those who would see to harm the way of life of others, uneasy political tensions, long forgotten rituals and artifacts that were never made to see the light of day. All these and more stand in position to create conflict to the ideals we strive for. There will be pyrrhic victories, there will be those who will attempt to corrupt that heart. Reine, you have experienced what it is like to lose companions in battle, it is something that no one of this world should have to experience. But that is the reason why we stand as knights and darraign ourselves in martial training.

It is then our duty to steel our hearts so that the pain we endure does not taint our souls. However in that there is a careful balance, we must be careful that the heart does not grow cold, distant from our ideals. A cold heart can lead to the abandonment of compassion. We must then ensure our hearts are kept warm with friendship. It is our duty to defend the realm of men, too often we need defend it from itself.

In the hearts of all men there lays the ability to sin, for many these lay dormant however there are those, many who unbeknownst to us struggle against their hold every day. It is saddening to see souls fall victim to their unforgiving sins. However all hearts also hold care, love, and empathy, often suppressed by their sins. It is our duty to outreach to those qualities and redeem lost souls. Hewing order without tempered mercy is against the ideals we stand by. We strive for freedom, many lost souls simply know not they have a choice.

Next tenday I will speak of glory, pride and the balance of order and freedom.

But now, I think your minds are upon the meals that are growing cold awaiting you. However they must continue on waiting for there is a reason why I gave you each your training swords. There is a battle to be won for the privilege to eat.”

*As Sveta finally comes to a close wit her speech some lightheartedness returns to her voice and posture as she takes a defensive stance against her recruits.

Since their first week of training Sveta's expectations seem to be growing much higher of the aspiring knights. However her demeanor doesn't become stern or unfriendly, rather the opposite. Often she now sets challenges against her trainees with a comradery tone to them, the loser often having to repeat the exercise*

[MedalOfValor]

*Throughout the day two couches were brought into the residence placed near the kitchen. After a long day of paperwork, organization of the soup kitchen, and preparations for the war that is drawing near Sveta returns to her residence in the late evening. She seems relieved by the sight of Eleanor and of the meal to come. In their casual conversation should the greatsword be mentioned Sveta would state that she would pay for it, so long as its price does not become excessive. While reclining on the couch reading through her mail a particular invitation catches her attention.*


"Squire, do you know how to dance? You've been having trouble with your footwork, it might help with that. You might think it silly, but there is a careful grace in dance that helps you become self aware of your feet. That and I'm going to be in need of someone to accompany me to this wedding.

I wonder if the Red Wine Dragon will be attending."

*Ellie rises head from the journal to look incredulously at Sveta*

"Dance? Erm.. No. Not much. Do we really have to go Head Watchknight...?" *The young squire stares at her mentor for a pregnant moment with a pleading expression* "Fine... I will learn how to dance, but can you first help me with those letters of credit for my family?"

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Thoughts

15th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I am truly happy that miss Reine decided to go with Everwatch's Cadetship as it will provide me with many options for a joined training sessions. Given that our skills are more or less on the same level it is indeed educational to practice with her. We also received our first mission from the Head Watchknight. We are suppose to buy supplies for the soup kitchen in Beregost and secure their delivery. Sounds simple enough and if we are able to receive some protective blessings from either Brother Ameris, mister Cromis or Lady Navra than we will be more than fine I believe.

Temple of Ilmater has a new member, a street cat. The little beast was flea-ridden so I helped Brother Ameris take care of that problem. Malnourished as the monster is he didn't lack the fighting spirit during the whole procedure. Luckily the mission was a successful one regardless of few biting marks and human heads infected with the parasite along the way. This little fur ball will survive, it just needs some good care for the time being.

Later on Lady Lafayette visited the temple which led to a duel with Dame Asperan which Head Watchknight won by a small margin. That occurrence gave me an opportunity to conduct an official introductions and make acquaintance with the woman I heard a lot about. Head Watchknight believes that Lady Cecilia can teach me a great deal of things especially because she herself aspires to become a Triadic Knight. Aside from matters of faith and knighthood the beautiful young knight is suppose to teach me something about etiquette as I am obviously lacking any knowledge of. I can't help feeling that all those pretty words, niceties are too close to half truths that can lead to lies. I do understand the need for some degree of politeness but being blunt helps staying honest. I believe that truth born from boldly spoken words sets us free and is able of making us aware of things that we would normally miss. And that being said I really didn't want to offend mister Cromis by saying that he is gloomy and grumpy due to his old age and loneliness. I merely spoke about what I think is a fact and I got scolded for it by Lady Lafayette and Head Watchknight. Oddly enough Hoarite seemed amused or...something along those lines. We ended up sparring together. That forced me to revise my view about his age... He may be old but he is strong as a bull. And despite his harsh surface he is a good teacher. There is more to that man than meets the eye. I landed on my rear too many times only to feel the bone in my arm break during the last fall. The sound it makes so familiar, carved in my memories with a jagged blade of words spoken by my father. The pain that never got to be really forgotten. I anticipated the rage to come, but it didn't. I looked at the Hoarite whose sword's tip caressed the skin on my throat and I didn't feel anger or shame. Not even fear, but the same feeling that filled me when I tried to calm down the Grandmaster. He could have left me like that, do not tend to my wounds but he did. And I do not think that was only for show.

Those two men, so different from one another, yet similar on some level. Both driven, faithful, stubborn to a degree that can be dangerous at times. Serving two entirely different Gods. The harsh, hardlined appearance that they produce either to shield themselves or for some other reasons wearing them down. However when I look at them I choose to look past it. I choose to see them both in an entirely different light. I wonder if they even remember...

An important discussion took place between me and Head Watchknight regarding me getting a puppy at some point. If that happens I will call him Cromis and make him the happiest puppy alive. So help me Triad.

16th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I had a odd encounter yesterday where I met a tiny little being called Deacon, that is apparently a dwarf sized down by some powerful spell. Reader Laitae says that he is very dangerous and the way he appears in front of others is simply to deceive them. To give her credit I think everyone able to wield magic powerful enough or good martial skills can be dangerous. But to assume the little fellow would be dumb enough as to attack her in the middle of the city is simply an overstatement.

Together with Reine we managed to fulfill our orders and bring supplies for the soup kitchen back to the Gate's where they got stored in the Ilmateri Temple for the time being. Getting to Beregost wasn't so difficult, having been warded by Brother Ameris we could fight the goblin threat on the way with very little risk. Using the smile I seen so many times on Heartwarder's lips I got us a nice amount of food supplies and some kitchen tools for a very good price. Our luck wasn't so good when it came to haggle for a wagon and a horse. Owner of the stables was very quick to sold us an old horse, that from the very beginning decided that he does not like Reine one bit and the feeling was mutual. The journey home was difficult, not only did the horse cause trouble but without the protective wards it came too close to serious injuries once we got ambushed by a pack of goblins. When we arrived at the Gate's we met mister Ivan, so I jumped at the opportunity to ask him about the horse's condition. He suggested that the animal simply needs proper rest and that should help with its rather nasty behavior. Reine and Head Watchknight with help from Watchknight Ghrim took care of the supplies while I took, now legally mine horse to one of the farms. I asked the farmer I help around if I could leave the horse in his stables. After some discussion and a little payment he agreed. I feed and brushed my new friend trying to find him a better name than Demon or Hell's stallion. His stubbornness and grumpiness reminds me of someone. I think the horse solves the matter of me getting a puppy any time soon.

17th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I wished to buy a certain pair of boots, mostly due to the magic rune enhanced in them, seeing Head Watchknight being rather fond of similar pair. Sadly the minimum price was way over my budget limit. I'd just move on, trying to find something else within my capabilities but when I came back few days later to the stall asking for a price on a sword the merchant said something very peculiar. Apparently the boots were bought by an elf of name Kaienrai who wished for me to get them. I still seem to have troubles understanding why would an elf, that never ever met me, buy me something so expensive. I must find him and thank him for the beautiful gift. The question is... Where do the elves live? Forest?

I'm going to be Head Watchknight's plus one to some wedding. Would say that Heartwarder's wishes will come true in regard of me attending some party. As for the dancing, why are you testing me so hard my dear Triad... Never had much interest in that, I do know one or two fold dances, as or the village kids do, but I really don't think it's what I need for the fancy wedding.

I need to finish my letter to Robbie and girls as it is well past midnight. I should really start going earlier to bed because it is getting difficult to wake up at dawn... And now that I have to check up on horse Cromis on my way to training it the morning doesn't really help.

***********************************

Letters to family

*A white envelope addressed to Robert Ford, Daggerford Guard, containing two letters of credit first for 2000gold coins and a second for 3000 gold coins. Beside those another letter is attached. This time ink-written in a slightly better handwriting.*

Dear Brother,
Thank you for your letter, let me congratulate you on your promotion! I am so proud of you Robbie, I always knew you deserved more. You see now? We both managed to get somewhere despite our past. There is more.

Do you remember the days we spent at the temple learning to write and read? We had though we are so educated then, but I guess we both learned the truth soon enough. I'm sending you 5bags of gold. Two bags for food and so on, but the other three bags are for something different entirely. I need you to find a teacher for the youngest of our siblings. Christina and Adam are still very young they have time to learn, Martha and Kathy need it even more. Let Granny help you with this. As for the twins, do you think you could take them to Daggerford to live there? There are old enough to work so it's not like you will have to spent all your pay on them and besides I will send you more soon. Granny won't be able to tend to them for much longer so it is our responsibility to somehow make a better arrangement.

If what you say about Jamie is true and he will in fact be better at this merchant apprenticeship than at being a guard then let him. Thomas may be better fit for duty, you will have to asses this on your own tho.
I can't take the youngsters here, I'm not living on my own yet, maybe once I reach knighthood, but that may be years away. But I will help you Robbie so I want you to think about my proposal. They deserve better.

I know I'm putting you in a tough spot. Believe me. But I also trust you know what is best and what our responsibilities lay.

I love you big brother, may the Triad guide you,
Ellie

***

*A white envelope a addressed to Elza Willington, Wayfork Village Wayfork Village north of Trollbark forest in Western Heartlands, house 19 containing a letter written in ink*

Dear Granny,
I'm good, I became a squire to helmite Knight, Dame Asperan. I'm learning and I work hard so I could assure you are all taken care of. You don't have to worry about me. My letter will be short. I sent Robbie five bags of gold, part of it for food and other supplies another one for kid's education. I want you to help him finding a teacher for the youngsters. If he agrees to my proposal he will take the twins with him to Daggerford, they are old enough to work and you won't have to keep an eye on them too.
Is father taking care of the rest of our land or is he too drunk to do so? If the latter then please arrange for someone to plow the soil and let it lie fallow, let it rest. You will have enough coin to buy your food.
I know its hard for you and the little ones, once we figure out something with Robbie we will take the kids too.
Tell them I miss all of them and I love them very much.
I couldn't be more grateful for your help Granny. Take a good care of yourself. Write me if in need.

May the Triad give you strength and protect you and the kids.
Love,
Ellie

[PiaMango]

Lessons in Footwork

“Miss Castillo is the head of the Sword Coast Commercial Exchange, Crow the head of the Lightbringers society and holding high ranking political administrative positions. They're both influential people and potential sources for contracts. It would be rude for us to decline the invitation to their wedding, and I would like you to make a positive impression upon them."

*Ellie sighs rubbing temples*
"I'm not good at making best impression on such important, educated people. I still am just a peasant in many ways... So I don't think that me going there is really a good idea. Maybe that would offend them."

*Reclining back on the couch a soft smirk is apparent on Sveta's face*
”I've seen you reading through my book collection. Does the opportunity to live through one of those romanticized tales of nobility for just an evening not interest you in the slightest? It's to be held in the Duchal Palace after all, not many get the opportunity to be invited inside its ballroom. You'll do fine, I'll be there with you. No doubt Telia and Ameris will be there too.”

*The young squire lips curl into a half-smirk.*
"I'm interested in being a Knight because of the values they stand for, not the political games and tales... But I see your point Head Watchknight."

*A pleased look enters the Knights face taking note of the smirk, her bulky arms showing as they cross back resting behind her head*
”I've found over the past year politics is a strong part of Knighthood, well at least in my leadership role. Think of the dance as a training exercise in footwork and etiquette. As I mentioned earlier there are reflections between footwork of dancing and swordplay. In swordplay your footwork must come without thought. Your focus should be upon assessing your opponent's posture and movements, anticipating their attacks and searching for vulnerabilities to take advantage of. Your thoughts cannot be focused upon your footwork in battle, they must come fluid in dodging and absorbing the impact of blows, then transitioning thoughtlessly into following through in seizing those weaknesses. Your footwork must become instinctive.”

*Sveta rises up from the couch carrying on speaking her lesson as she makes her way to her drawer, retrieving two sets of socks. She tosses them down spreading them apart as corners of an approximate half meter square.*
“Much the same can be said for dancing. The footwork must come natural, should you wish to keep your partners toes unbruised. There are basic steps to be learned but when you pass that there is a lot of reading of the leaders movements, and adjusting to those without second thought.

Common, it'll be fun. I'll show you the basic steps of the common formal dance.”

*Motioning Eleanor over Sveta stands with her feet just below one of the socks. She slowly counts out 1... 2... 3... showing her the basic steps. Front.... Right... Together... Back... Left... Together.*
“This is the basic box step. Now you try.”

*Eleanor watches her mentor movement closely, expression that of a deep focus. The girl nods head before rising from the chair she was sitting in, to try and mimic Sveta's steps. After few slightly clumsy attempts she grasp the general idea.*
"I feel really dumb doing this. I can feel that I have the same amount of grace as a zombie"

*Sveta would continue to count out the rhythm for her pupil to help her along*
“Nonsense, my little lion holds more grace than that. Keep your posture formal, remember you're an aspiring knight now, not a peasant. Eyes up, let the flow of your feet come naturally. It'll be easier to feel once there is music and a partner to follow.

Hold, I'll take lead. Place your hand in mine and the other on my shoulder.”

*Sveta's chest is help pridefully high as she take the lead, offering her dancing partner a warm encouraging smile. She counts out the rhythm once more to get them started. The soft smirk returning as she speaks*
”I expect ten push ups for every time you maim my toes. We'll have to get a dress for you tomorrow, something modest. A light grey, silvery, dress to match my navy suit.”

*Following Sveta's lead seem to be a bit troublesome for her young squire especially when the steps become to complex to follow at moments notice. After many tries she would still appear clumsy in a sort of a charming ugly duckling way...*

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

18th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Cleaning the vacant house the Head Watchknight found and designated for the soup kitchen isn't an easy task. I'd say that rat trap has been abandoned long time ago. Nevertheless it should be soon ready for placing some furniture, stoves, and such. The sooner the better, given the amount of questions I get from bystanders, those people really need this to work.

Between this, training sessions and dancing lessons I find very little time to read, write or to take care of horse Cromis. He is already feeling much better, however his mood hasn't improved as much. Hopefully this will change with time, proper diet and rest.

19th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Opening of the soup kitchen was a success. Given the close proximity to Flaming Fist headquarters there were no disturbance or ill behavior among those that came to eat there either in the morning or during midday. Without doubt we will need more hands to help here, I was so caught up in work: preparing meals, serving meals, cleaning, offering kind words and other tasks that I entirely forgot about that damned wedding. Once the realization hit me, the whole ceremony had started around two hours ago and I was simply too exhausted to go.. In the end I fell asleep in the kitchen.
Head Watchknight will be very displeased with me...

20th-21st Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

Once I get home I'm simply too tired to sit and write. Luckily we will get help soon, so I won't so needed anymore. On the other hand it's not like I can do more than this. Head Watchknight already said no, to me going and helping with the undead situation, stating that my skills are simply too little for that kind of challenge. Well... That's just it I suppose.

Instead me and Reine were send to search for some dangerous book in troll caves by the sea, haven't found it tho. Neither the book, nor the bandits.

22nd Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I decided to take a small break from the soup kitchen, leaving Bella in charge. She may be a bit rough around the edges but her heart is in the right place. But that was suppose to give me some time to train, run errands in the end however I ended up in the the forest where the orcs live fighting - or should I say assisting in fighting really - with mister Cromis and mister Thedran plague driven animals. While trying to figure out what was happening mister Corvus found us and thanks to his druidic powers he led us to the source of that illness. A gigantic undead spider that crawled out from underground. After it was destroyed a woman appeared, claiming to be in pursue of the creator of those spiders, a eye-less high priestess of Talona. She declined to answer questions about her own allegiances disappearing before anyone could do her any harm. She promised however to meet us in two days on the Fields of the Dead. Rude mage that I met the day before burned the hole from which the spider came and mister Corvus covered it with soil and rocks. Mister Cromis teleported us back to the city so we could tell Brother Ameris about that incident.

There is some bad blood between Brother Ameris and the doombringer, but I won't get into details right now as what happened next is more important. Once Reine showed up at the temple, we were offered to go with Brother Ameris, Commander Eldarian and Lady Navra to the crypt near the Troll Claws to aid in cleansing the place. Before we reached the Fields of the Dead little shadow jumping girl showed up, they all say she is just a dancer. A while later both Head Watchknight and Ghrim stumbled upon our little "army" and joined the mission aside from Dame Asperan's reservations about mine and Reine's skills and overall readiness to be a part of such a task. Brother Ameris consecrated the place once we destroyed all the undeads.

It's getting late, an hour or so till midnight, and I'm thinking about what Brother Ameris and Telia said. The question I am left with is simple, wouldn't the Watcher knew if words spoken really were mendacious? Could it be that he really faked it all? Just to deceive us? I find it hard to believe but by the same token I barely know the men in question. The gut feeling may not be enough, moreover it can be wrong. And why would he stalk Lady Telia? What purpose could it serve. I'm throwing the questions in the vacuum. I may as well simply ask the doombringer the next time I see him.

23rd Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I asked Head Watchknight about the God's ability to know when we are truthful or not. At the end of the discussion I was left with a grim thought. If what she says is true, then why should we pray for guidance if Gods do not really wish to meddle into our doings, leaving us to our devices, and putting the weight of making the right decision on our shoulders. Does it mean that all the words I share with the Triad during my morning and evening prayers do not even reach them? I thought that being an extension of our patrons will is to be guided by them. I feel confusion rising within me and I am too ashamed and scared to ask Brother Ameris about that.

After our rather long talk on the city walls we departed to fulfill a contract that required retrieving two wyvern eggs. That went smoothly. Head Watchknight decided to check upon the Xsvarts population on our way back and that expedition didn't go well, we got surrounded and Dame Asperan fell in battle, I barely made it out myself. Being unable to go back there on my own I ran for help. Luckily I found miss Endelyon, or should I say miss Castillo, and she agreed to help me. With her assistance we managed to reach the Temple of Lathander in Beregost, where Head Watchknight's life was restored. I had to take of another wagon of supplies for the soup kitchen so after introductions and kind words I left.

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

24th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I went to meet that Griselda woman. Surprisingly neither Brother Ameris, Lady Navra nor even mister Cromis showed up. Maybe I wasn't clear enough about the meeting... It left me with mister Corvus and that rude, obnoxious warlock. Luckily we didn't have to fight the plague spitter this time. The mysterious woman showed us however a projection of the plague spitter that she located sharing her knowledge about them. The inchor spitting, the poisonous cloud it releases around itself, the biological concoction it carries. Disease that evolves, learns and becomes more efficient with each change. She showed us also the creator of those undead, enormous plague spiders, the high priestess of Talona, eye-less Magmire. According to Griselda she has been rallying the other cult prone to infighting to her side and the spiders are only a part of some bigger plan and shape of things to come. We are suppose to gather forces to annihilate the plague spitter she found, four days from now. I already told Head Watchknight of this. Others must know too.

Something happened to Reine during the last training session, one moment she was her usual self, the next it was like she was swallowed by her inner demons. The ugly scar on her shoulder is a proof of what she has been through. I wonder if either Brother Ameris or Heartwarder could fix it with a properly prepared ritual. I see no point in enduring a pain and discomfort caused by an old wound if it by the same token makes us weaker and unfit for service to our Gods.

25th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I assisted Head Watchknight during that Foreign Exchange Committee meeting which was educational in a way. Aside from the fact that it was difficult at times to follow everyone's thoughts. Despite of the chaos that sometimes broke loose I think miss Castillo did a really good job as a moderator. I do hope to attend more of those meetings in the future.

I tried to meet with Brother Ameris, Lady Navra or mister Cromis, but I couldn't find neither of them which is not good given that we were given only four days to prepare for battle with the plague spitter. The situation really worries me because I don't even dare to assume that insane warlock, one druid and me can destroy the undead carrier of the plague.

I added Reine to my morning prayers, hoping for the best as always. Each time I add a person I notice how lengthy my vigil has become, but that really does not trouble me. I have time, and words for all of them.

Reading through the books that Dame Asperan has in her collection I found another poem I like.

1. ~Reluctance~
   Out through the fields and the woods
   And over the walls I have wended;
   I have climbed the hills of view
   And looked at the world, and descended;
   I have come by the highway home,
   And lo, it is ended.
   
   The leaves are all dead on the ground,
   Save those that the oak is keeping
   To ravel them one by one
   And let them go scraping and creeping
   Out over the crusted snow,
   When others are sleeping.
   
   And the dead leaves lie huddled and still,
   No longer blown hither and thither;
   The last lone aster is gone;
   The flowers of the witch hazel wither;
   The heart is still aching to seek,
   But the feet question ‘Whither? ’
   
   Ah, when to the heart of man
   Was it ever less than a treason
   To go with the drift of things,
   To yield with a grace to reason,
   And bow and accept the end
   Of a love or a season?

I bought a new saddle and a halter for Cromis, the last thing I need are reins. I will try to tack him up soon. I wonder if I should ward myself before proceeding...

OOC: Poem belongs rightfully to Robert Frost

[MedalOfValor]

*Instead of their normal nightly training after dinner Sveta would lead her pupils in meditation before they are to sleep. Instructing the pair of them to join Sveta in sitting in a triangle facing the center. She would begin their meditation with gentle words of instruction to clear their minds, seeming to be primarily speak to Eleanor given Reine's experience. Her voice would be surprisingly soothing given how firm it generally is. It would not be for half an hour till Sveta finally would break the meditation, unless prematurely broken by one of the two young recruits. As they break Sveta offers them each a blank book speaking.*

"I know I have already given you a journal Eleanor, but for these books I would wish you each to express your emotion into words of poetry as catharsis. If we leave our emotions unexpressed to whelm up inside of us they will get the better of us. I have my own book like this fill of small notes of thoughts and poems. It certainly isn't graceful to read through, but I have found it has helped me to better understand myself."

*Ellie looks at Sveta for a longer moment, expression puzzled and slightly incredulous. She runs her fingers over the edge of the received book*
"Your want me to write... Poems...? Me? Daughter of the farmers?" *The young squire struggles to keep her voice level* "It's hard enough to read through some of those tomes you give me, and now you want to try and wrote mine own poems Head Watchknight? I'm fine with the ways I express my emotions right now. I don't bottle them up." *She sighs seeing Sveta's expression and shrugs* "Fine... I'll try..." *Ellie frowns with irritation visible on her visage.*

***********************************

Thoughts

26th - 27th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I work through the frustration with my blade high, shield in place, stance proper. I can feel I'm pushing the limits, but what else is there for me to do. Channeling the Gods' will comes... oddly easy these days. I remember when Granny told me how precious that gift is, but I did forsake it, buried it, too busy with keeping my family together. I still am not sure what to make of it and how to see myself through it. I have also no idea why I can do what I do. I just follow the feeling that grows inside me, anchors me and guides me. I never really feel alone.

I managed to arrange a meeting between Brother Ameris, Commander Eldarian, Lady Navra and my humble person to tell them of Griselda's words and wishes. They didn't really seem that convinced.. My words carry little weight and I in fact am no one, they do not know me really, they have just barely met me, so they are not inclined to believe me. But I think, no, I believe that it is beside the point, the fact that Griselda may be leading me into a trap. She still knows where the plague spitter is, and that abomination must be destroyed. Does it really matter who shows us the way? I hope they make up their minds before tomorrow and join the hunt. I left my letters for the others. Now I should pray for strength and wisdom.

28th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I must say, seeing them all show up was a big surprise. I haven't really expected such a crowd, not even in the wildest of estimations. But they came, it was all that mattered. People that I have never even met before. We met with Griselda and she led us the the plague spitter. Its destruction wasn't easy but was achieved in the end. She wanted us to learn how to find the spiders, how to contain them so we have time to gather strength to kill them. She left us with the crystals that contain the plague spitters, the rest lays in our hands. I was right. Me, farmer's daughter. Nobody.

I fiddle with thoughts regarding the discussion that has taken place at the temple between Lady Navra and Mister Cromis. I can't help but smile. Healing takes time, it happens to be a painful, lengthy, difficult, infuriating experience. I spent years watching my family, the people at the village. It doesn't really mater if you are a noble or a peasant, the same things drive god's children no matter their origins. The mechanisms at their core stay the same. Little steps, mean progress, and I am grateful for that. They both struggle so much, different reasons, different triggers and different needs.

"But you sit, you watch, you listen and at the proper moment push gently into the right direction, speak if you must, but always stay in the middle to help others find balance. Be observant my little star, be patient, be attentive and you will know what to do", that's what Granny used to tell me.
I miss her at times. I miss her wisdom that was always there when I needed it. I want to ease their pain, make the struggle more bearable but by the same token I know they need to work though it on their own. Trust is never born from nothing, it needs a ground to root itself within, and work to grow and flower. That process can never be forced. Trust needs understanding, working in good faith and time. I do hope they can all achieve it, look past the mistakes and wrongs they committed. No one is perfect, no one infallible.

I may have a solution in mind that could help. I just need to run it by Brother Ameris first.

The words mister Cromis spoke to me of Justicars still in my head, bits and pieces of memories are coming back to me now.

1. Through Wisdom, I Observe
   Through Observation, I Know
   Through Knowledge, I Judge
   With Judgement, I Act
   Justice Comes to All

Sounds so familiar, she used to say something very similar. Her words however were much more gentle and simpler as they were presented to a child.

I met mister Talisen later on and gave him a lunch bag with pancakes for mister Cromis. I hope he will eat it this way at least.

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

29th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I feel at ease in this very moment. Balanced and joyful. My heart and mind swell with pride and in anticipation that comes with the intense realization. I'm the tool to deliver God's will. I'm a humble servant whose soul belongs to the God and has been by that God chosen. I am yet to understand why and what exactly He expects of me, but I am sure that it will be shown to me once I really comprehend the meaning of what I am. My vigil starts now and it doesn't scare me like I though it would. I've been afraid of what the answer might be since the talk with the Devil in the ruins. I truly dreaded the possibility of being used by a vile power, but now, here, I know who I serve. I know I'm home. Really home.

1. I, Eleanor, pledge to You Lord Torm, Loyal Fury, Father this very moment, kneeling in front of your statue and banners bearing your holy symbol as well as those of the Triad.
   
   I pledge to You my will to serve You and the Triad till the end of my days.
   
   I pledge to You my dedication to follow through in what I know is best for my soul, for the people in my care, for my family, for my duties.
   
   I pledge to You my total commitment to never abandon my path and calling.
   
   I pledge to You my sincere loyalty to show honor, dignity, sincerity and justice in everything I do.
   
   I pledge to You my service in following the code, dogma and Your guidance.

***********************************

Prayers

~To the Triad~
Prayer for my family and friends

1. My beloved Triad, my Lords, I kneel in front of you this joyous day, the day of my awakening to offer my prayer. I humbly ask you to hear my words.
   
   I pray for the well being of my mentor, Helm's servant, Sveta and for her to never loose sight of the path she has chosen. I'm grateful she has picked me to nurture the talent I was given. Please keep her from harms way in the days to come and allow her to discover the joy that comes from embracing what she feels.
   
   I pray for the tormented soul of my sister Reine who has suffered a loss that scarred her. Please aid her in the recovery so she can flourish once more and serve you better with her head high and spirit strong. Help her come to terms with past and set her free.
   
   I pray for strength for one of your servants, Ameris. Help him guide the one he loves for he has chosen to be the one that brings her into the safe haven of a better life. Show him how to be helpful and strong.
   
   I pray for the soul of the woman, Telia, who has been lost, whose path has been a switchback, whose mistakes weight her down hard. Help her in her search for balance and help her learn about herself once more so she can repent for the wrongs she has done and find peace.
   
   I pray for the soul of a Justicar, servant of Hoar, Tegeus. Help him see that there is more to life then what he thinks there is. Show him once more what it means to feel more than anger, pain caused by injustice or hopelessness. Guide him towards finding the place and the people where he truly belongs.
   
   I pray for my family back at both home in Wayfork Village and in Daggerford. Please keep my younger siblings safe and healthy. Grant the older kids the strength and will to achieve their dreams.

***********************************

*Sveta would help Reine with the cooking and cleaning this evening, bringing a container fill of a meal alongside a blanket and journal for Eleanor to the temple of Torm later the evening. After seeing to a few duties she would spend the evening with Reine, personally going through with her meditation and counselling her of her troubles.

When Eleanor returns home for their morning training Sveta would be absent from the house, a note is left upon Eleanor's drawer alongside a vase of flowers. The note reads*

After your morning training with Reine I would like you to deliver the following vase to Endelyon. If you cannot find her in person please deliver it to the reception of the Sword Coast Commercial Exchange's bank. Later in the evening I wish for you to meet me at the temple of Ilmater so we may investigate the rumors surrounding assistance required by Captain Beluarion with Cadet Reine and myself.

Helm's guidance,
Sveta Asperan

*There is a note card settled among the flowers, tied to one of the stems written formally. It would read as below, should they peek at it.*

Hidden: show

Endelyon,

I wish to congratulate you in your success in leading the Foreign Exchange Committee. Our worries at the beginning of the committee were misplaced. Should you wish to take upon my offer for a drink, a bottle of vintage whiskey awaits you at my residence.

Sveta Asperan

*The young squire picks up the vase tucking the note into her pocket and leaves the residence to fulfill the task she was given.*

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

30th Tarsakh 1351, Baldur's Gate

I tried to find miss Castillo, but with little luck, so I left both the flowers and the note in the bank. I hope she gets it.

I spend the midday with Cromis, trying to convince him to wear a saddle. I know I chose the name right without doubt. The most stubborn one I've seen in a long time. He bears his teeth and neighs, I can see his body getting tense like just before rearing, so I leave him be. I talk to him instead, for an hour or two till he settles down and allows me to brush his mane. Well he gets his carrot, as I am truly unable to use the stick... Flaw in my character?

Training with Head Watchknight and Ghrim in the foothills was tough and we ended up in the house of the Guardian quite battered. Without warding it's not as easy. When Reine joined us a bit later we were ordered to make a patrol run through the Xsvarts village, so we did. Went surprisingly well I might say. The rigorous training is starting to pay off.

1st Mirtul 1351, Baldur's Gate

It is getting really late. I don't think I have ever come home so late. My thoughts turbulent like a storm, chase after the clues, meaning and contexts. The day has started like usual, prayer, visit at the stable to brush Cromis and talk some sense into him, training, then some errands around the city. I met Reine on the Elf Song patio, where mister Cromis and the little bird were too. He asked us about our training, so I jumped at the opportunity and asked him to spar with me. To my surprise we didn't just spar, he tried to teach - or beat into? - me some spear skill. Basics mostly. Later he did actually spar. I lost my blade few times, each time I paid for it. He wiped the floor with me, which doesn't really surprise me. Still I think I made a bit of a progress since the last time. I also had an opportunity to spar with Head Watchknight, who also sent me on the floor pretty quickly. Go figure... I'm still helpless against both of them. And as I cherish the chances to learn, every chance really, I fear I'm not getting strong enough, now quick enough, not precise enough. I was about to spar with Reine when that odd, obnoxious warlock showed up, claiming he can read someones memorries so he would love to have a chat with a talonite cultist. His somehow shady offer was however declined. At the same time mister Corvus and miss Berea came, I could put another mark on the map. We also decided to investigate the mister Corvus'es findings in the swamps in the High Moor. We went there and we indeed found one of those monsters. We fought it, it appeared weakened as the first one. Miss Berea made an assumption that the further from the broodmother the spiders are, the weaker, and to some extent sicker, they get. If that is indeed true it could possibly help us narrow down the location of the nest. She collected some samples of ichor which were later given to a man called Gwydion. All those druids are actually making progress while I just sit an put marks on the map, being unable to give them any kind of information that would be valuable. But, Gods, I'm patient, something will change, has to.

At the end of all that I had a long talk with the Hoarite. The inquisition was thorough the general overtone reminded me of the discussions I used to have with Granny. Well she certainly was much nicer, warmer than mister Cromis and gave me cookies if my answers were satisfactory. But overall I felt as I was being tested. I didn't really mind, I like what Granny used to call - mind gymnastics - and besides, he told me one important thing which means I passed test. Now I just have to find a chance to talk to him again, and this time around I'm going to be inquisitive and, we are going to have food. How one can discuss at length such interesting matters without any meal in sight, especially after a battle. I really don't get the lack of appetite he is clearly suffering from, this - aside from his grumpiness - has to be dealt with. Still he is already making progress whether he is aware of it or not which makes me smile even more. I think Head Watchknight will be rather astonish when she realizes that he is not the one rubbing off on me, but it is the other way around. Persuading her of this however, may be troublesome. I sense that I'm going to hear some about me spending time with the creepy, old, depressed man.

[MedalOfValor]

Thoughts

2nd Mirtul 1351, Baldur's Gate

An evacuation of Kheldrivver took place today. There was no real chain of command, so I decided to follow the direct orders from the Heartwarder. My focused was mostly on aiding the evacuation, leading the citizens, helping with packing their belonging onto the wagons, chasing lost animals and children while the others fought undead horde and trolls. Despite the chaos in our ranks the citizens were led to safety. All in all it went quite well, things considered. Once I got home, exhausted and hungry, Head Watchknight and Reine were already there busy with lifting weights. I told them about the happenings of my day, then I prepared meal. We talked about oaths. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop, but it didn't till I actually poked it that direction. Head Watchknight expressed, yet again, her concern about me spending time around the Doombringer. Not only is she worried he may infect me with his vengeful thinking and ways but there is also something else there she is not telling me. I won't press, I'll wait till she's ready to voice her other concerns as well. I did however tell her that I am not so easy to manipulate and influence as she may think, I kept my believes intact during all the years of abuse at home, not letting my father corrupt me. I know myself in regard of my faith well enough to not be affected by others. I do however like sharing thoughts on all the topics, as it widens my own perspective and gives me an insight into others way thinking. I can't tell if she believed me that I actually achieved a little progress where mister Cromis is concerned. I do not intend to convert him, I just want him to see what he has lost or forgotten. And besides if he was so easy to convert I don't think I'd really respect the men the way I do now. Later during the conversation I received a sending, mister Corvus found another plague spitter. We rushed to meet him, gathering some support along the way. The one that mister Ivan located was extremely weak, the battle was short. Well at least it's another point that I can put on the map. One step closer to the solution.

3nd Mirtul 1351, Baldur's Gate

After morning training and some hours in the soup kitchen I went to the temple to look for Reine. I had a lot on my mind, feeling somehow restless so I tried the meditations Head Watchknight has been trying to teach us. It helped just a little so while Reine kept on meditating I washed all the dishes, cleaned and scrubbed both the table and the benches, which still hadn't really bring me any closed to the usual calmness. Ghrim came by later, telling us he is about to go undercover for that mission from Hellriders. We talked a bit about how bad the situation on the coast is, where the orders are not willing to unite under one leadership to deal with both the plague and the undead. Head Watchknight joined us shortly after having a training session in mind, she spoke with us about the matter of leadership and the gravity of the situation for a moment. Then the Doombringer came and ask to speak with her. Once Ghrim left for his mission the two of them went upstairs to talk and stayed there long. The uneasiness within me grew stronger with each passing moment, even Reine seemed slightly annoyed. She's right, no one really tells us much and there is more to what is happening in this little, crowded temple, then we know. When they came back, he left without a word, passing Reader Laitae in the doorstep as she came. I didn't really participate in the discussion that happened afterwards. It's not like I know anything about commanding an army and such. Beside my mind was only half present there, and once Head Watchknight ordered me to contact the Order of the Silver Rose I had even more trouble concentrating on their conversation while I worked possible angles of approach in my head. Once they all left I went upstairs to pace around in peace, undisturbed by anyone but my own mind. Sending was sent, met with even more aggravating "Now is not the time", and so I asked the Triad to give me strength to be patient. This is not my strong suit, not when I'm worried. I could feel the storm coming, so I forced myself to work, to do something that would contain me. As a result pies were made and the temple filled with the smell of apple-cream, cinnamon touched, tarts. I had a brief conversation with Lady Telia, she told me few things that shed a bit light on what I already suspected. She also made a very horrifying suggestion, that I am not even going to write about. Period. Witches have odd ideas at times.

I spoke with Brother Ameris about the evacuation, telling him the what I already told Dame Asperan. During my talk, Tegeus came back so I left for the kitchen. He followed and we spoke, soon the conversation moved out of the kitchen. I will need to contact that ranger Mendel, he also spoke about that text. Once Head Watchknight was done talking with Reine she wished to speak with me in private and I followed her home, where we spoke of my younger siblings and other things. I asked her about the discussion she had with Tegeus. There is hope that she will change her view of him, for now however she would probably still preferred if I didn't spend time with him. That is not her choice to make and I asked her to trust me, trust my judgement and my ability to stay true to myself. My calm, contained self surprised me even more. So many people telling me the same thing over and over again.. And I still stand in opposition to their accusations. I know they have merit here and there, but there is also a lot that they do not know, do not understand. Sending came so I left to meet with Tegeus in the Temple of Tyr. We spoke briefly before departing. At FAI we met with some other people, the only one I knew by name was mister Talisen. A man approached us then, claiming to be Lord Orlandu of Elturel, the younger son of late Lord Sid Orlandu. Aron told us that his older brother Lem persuaded the house guard to help him kill the father. After the murder he fled with his man deep into cloackwood. It didn't really made much sense to me, why would he kill his father and flee instead of taking the leading position within the family. Having the support of the guard, he could clearly maintain the lordship. No one however voiced any concerns so I kept silent about my thoughts believing that the truth will come out eventually. After few hours we reached a bridge where the suspected villains were located. Mister Talisen attempted to solve the matter diplomatically but failed. Assassins sneaked past us and killed Lord Aron, the fight started. I was trying to guard the body of dead lord and I ended up being surrounded by assassins. I lost consciousness due to loss of blood. Lem Orlandu was slain in the battle. The hoarites found dead Lord Sid with a symbol of Hoar on his chest and his page, Charles, the kid no more than twelve, scared and traumatized. Covered in blood men didn't really made the best impression on the boy, but I managed to calm him down in the end. He told us the other version of the same story placing Aron as the one responsible for crimes his brother Lem wanted to make him pay. Despite Tegeus'es efforts to bring back Lem, the men stayed dead, possibly content where he was.

There is a lesson to remember in all that. There was to little observation, to know and be able to judge properly. They rushed to act. And I shouldn't really have stayed quiet about my doubts. On the other hand Lem and his people didn't really seem to be willing to talk things out, or maybe it was just poor diplomacy. Probably a little of both. Mister Talisen doesn't really strikes me as a diplomat.

Granny's words ring in my head as I go through her teachings. The anxiety of unknown origin still there, pulling strings in me. The anger almost gone, smoldering weakly. I'm too tired to think about it now.


((OOC: Edit: grammar and some other tweaks.Writing after an all nighter is bad...