The Journal of Galen'ael Glenstalker

[SteelForgedSword]

Updated: 8-15-09, Alignment.

Name: Galen'ael Glenstalker
Race: Wood Elven
Age: 140
Alignment: NG/CG he switches with his mood.
Deity: Silvanus
Class: Druid
Personality: Galen's mood and overall personality is driven by the moment and his instincts. Like the wind, his mood/personality, can change in an instant. His intensely loyal to those he calls friend, but his friendship is not easily earned. His has a high opinion of himself and his chosen profession; he sees as more of a calling and life fulling purpose than a "job as an adventurer." He is intelligent, witty, and well spoken with penchant for sarcasam. His chaotic nature leads him to not judge the actions of many around him and he has a varying array of friends, for most of his life, if they meant, they'd kill each other. He holds a few truths close to his heart: loyalty, family, honor, and protection of Nature. Only a few things rile him: sloth, slavery, treachery, Orcs and Drow. The half breeds of the aforementioned he can barely tolerate and he sees them, mostly, as a less stinkier pile of pooh....though they can gain his respect, though it is difficult.
Background: He is from the High Forrest, near the town of Llorkh, a town off the Black Road in the North near the Silver Marches. His father was a Ranger of the Dark Hunter. His mother a Bard. He left home after his Druidic Teacher was slain by Drow and his dying vision lead him South to find his Purpose. The rest...well...that's why I write a journal.

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This is the tale of my absence from the Lands of Baldurs Gate as I journyed deep into the Wood, bringing the will of the Oak Father to those who deserved His judgement; as I sought peace for a time. I've begun my tale anew, as my old journal was lost.

Deep in the wood of Sharpe Teeth, a solitary figure maintains a vigilant watch high in a tree. His features are drawn and taught, though hidden in the recesses of his hood. Cloaked in the magic of the natural world and a small talent for shadows, he is invisible to the stupid beasts who pass below him. He watches the Orcish patrol advance beneath him as his breath exhale from inside his hood and the vapors twinkle in the moonlight. They grunt to each other in their guttural language as he wipes his hands in anticipation. His eyes take in their direction; they march along a half hazard path cut from the forrest and head torward a logging camp in the distance. The camp cut into the worldness with thoughtlessness and vulgarity.

He loosens his cloak about his form and leaps from the branch high into the air. As he vaults, he hold onto the bottom of his cloak and it catches a gust of wind slowing his ascent. He seems to pause in midair, as words of an ancient Druidic chant pass from his lips in a whisper.

The air around him begins to shimmer and wane as his figure transforms into an ancient guardian of the Wood; a treant.

He lands in the middle of the patrol with a resounding THUD and howls a roar of primal rage at these violators of the Land. The Orcs, numbering some half dozen, are taken by surprise and flail about and stumble as he lands...some barely managing to draw a weapon or raise one in time.

It is over quickly, as the Treant stomps and swipes. Blood flows, dark and sticky, feeding the forrest floor as the sounds of death ring throughout the Wood. The Treant looks around him for any more defilers and sees none as his breathe exhales out of him heavily. He looks torward the distant logging camp and roars a Challenge to the Orcs that echoes through out the Wood.

The fires begin to wink out one by one.

"Another time then."

He chants softly in Drudic as his form returns to a lithe elven one. A Panther, black as midnight comes to his side out of the tree line and nuzzles his hand.

"Come old friend, tis time we return to tamer lands and this Seeker sees to his business...that business of the Circles and old friends. We've been away a touch too long. Much never changes, though there is always business to which to attend and this one has some...I will speak with Tarsakh..maybe it is time the Lords of that city understand more than they know of Us from tales told to the little ones...come."

They dissappear into the tree line.

[SteelForgedSword]

*Galen sits in the Grove, his journal open in his lap, his features lined and his brow furrowed*

I have been gone far too long, I return to a mess, the land is in chaos, strange for me to write of such a thing. Chaos is the storm we weather all of our Lives...and yet even I can broker only so much.

I meant Eleanor, a cheerful young human girl. She being the eldest who, along with myself, leads us now out in the Wilds, the Elders slumber or are away. A novice at many matters, by her own admission, she is nonetheless a wise one. I see strength in her even if she does not yet see it her self. Her power is near my own, she only confidence and guidance. She asked for such after we spoke, I shall help her as I am able.

I am not a paragon of wisedom and virtue, this is the mantle of Silverleaf, Tarsakh, even Azrael. I am the sword arm, the one who acts and lives with no regret.

We are few, her, I and the seekers who look to join our Cause....others express interest.

I find it odd, for now, I am the eldest and others look to me for leadership. Duty is a mountain I was once told. I will do my best to carry it upon my shoulders until the others return.

We are young and few, but I need not do it alone. That is what matters.

Tainted ones roam the Land, followers of the Frost Maiden seek to meddle in Our affairs and I am sure others annoyances shall present themselves. I shall train, long and hard in the days ahead...I sense I shall need such strength, that kind and the other provided by those who protect the Land.

Isenduil spoke to me of failing his test sometime ago, given to him by Silverleaf and he has grown since then. Were it my choice, he would walk with the Rangers now, alas it is not. Silverleaf is not to be found, along with the others of the Circle. I shall speak to the Ancient One, if he would have it, and see if he has task for Isenduil in the mean time. I believe him ready to server the Lady and Our cause. I shall do my best to help him.

Now that I have my place in the Circle, the time nears for me to approach the Dukes of the Baldurs Gate with the Purpose I have foreseen for myself and of which Tarsakh and I spoke of long ago. I shall begin with a formal letter to them, outlining my vision to maintain the balance within these Lands. I have seen many old friends this day and meant some new ones who would help our cause. It is time to move things foward.

I believe if we work together with those of the city, foster respect and understanding, it shall benefit all and particularly the Land. If I can teach those who fear or do not understand Our ways it shall drag small minds into the Light of Understanding.

I shall begin drafting the letter at once, though it shall take time and careful thought.

In the short term, those who seek to twist the Land shall learn that the Guardians still walk it.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

*Galen sits in the Grove, his journal open in his lap*

Tarsakh has returned from his journey and it warms my heart to have his wisdom and leadership back among us. Challenges swirl about the Land as they always do and his leadership shall serve the Circle well.

The Ancient One has tasked Eleanor and with finding another Protector from the Seeker of the Younger Druid Iniates. This will be no small task and I must speak with her soon on the matter. I do not even know their names nor their faces.

Many Rangers seek to join the Circle as well and many of these ones I have meant. Our ranks seem to want to swell as of late, alas I'd rather have one good servant of the Land at my back rather than three whose spirits and hearts are unproven. I do not doubt the courage nor will of any who wish to join our ranks, but the path we walk is not an easy one and the burden is great. I have been tasked with overseeing the canadacies of the prospective Rangers and I shall begin soon.

We shall see and I quickly find my days filling back up with tasks and responsibilities.

Idle hands make idle spirit, I shall have neither.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

Things improve steadily;

Tarsakh has returned to lead us and says the other Elders might come soon...Azrael has come back.

Isenduil has been sworn to our cause and it warms my heart. He has learned from why Silverleaf refused him before, he shall serve us well I think.

Other speak to me of joining and express interest in their own way. I sense things are turning for us to the good, we shall become strong in members and spirit and I shall do my best to ensure it.

The Council gathers soon, we have much to discuss. It is paramount we coordinate amoungst ourselves and the younger members learn of our Ways and Matters of importance, ritual, custom etc.

I have contacted Goodmane, asking for his assistance with my audience with the Dukes. Minimally, I want to speak with him and garner his assistance and that of the 'Masters. I have friends amoung them already and it is past time for us to provide a focal point amoung the goodly powers of the Realm. Evil seems to be everywhere and there is not a united front against it.

I shall build one and bring the others kicking and screaming if I must. The Land cries for balance and we are all beings of Nature...if one branch dies the rest are not long behind it....roots and all....

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

I write about humans often, they are very strange creatures...so robust and full of life, maybe because they have so little of it.

A great penchant for good and evil...and any in between.

I don't meet many new travelers recently, but this one named Katha seemed pleasant enough. A darked skined beauty with generous proportions, I took her measure to be a sort of Ranger...or Tracker. A warden of Felidea, protector of wanderers and a deity of worldly pleasures....the last hitting me like Orcs breathe as we parted...a horrible anology, I know...

I had a nice rest near the merchant camp and we spoke for some time. I had a pleasant talk with her and normalcy, something I rarely experience anymore.

I offered the blessings of Silvanus as we parted, my thanks for her company. She asked me if I'd take Felidae's, I said yes not wanting to be rude for I did enjoy her company.

She kissed me full on the mouth for several long seconds, then parted. I was so stunned I mumbled a farewell and was actually speechless for the 3rd time in my short life of 165 years....

Humans, strange indeed....but this experience....was....not wholey unpleasant.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

My Purpose flowers.

Goodmane has agreed to assist me in my request and has also agreed to speak with me, he said Crownsilver of the Fist he has contacted on my behalf as well and the Duke. Bonds shall be renewed and respect fostered to the benefit of the Land and all Life. I shall see this Council formed and a focal point for good made whole.

I knew long ago when I spoke to Tarsakh of my plan and purpose that it felt....right and every step I take upon this Path renews my vow to pursue it.

Two new seekers have begun their journey with Us, Asmund and Amalie, both Rangers of the Land. I spoke with them all of a night and am hopeful for both. Our numbers look to grow and all I have been told to guide show great promise and gives Us hope for the future. Keeper Azrael has returned as well adding to the aforemention hope. I shall make the effort to know him better, our Paths finally cross. He spoke of trusting my judgement in regards to overseeing the Seekers and my plans for them, which grow by the day, because Tarsakh told him he trusts my judgement. I shall do both honorably by my actions and dissapoint neither. He will be involved in them and has already done some to help mine along, though I did not know of it. This is a sign I proceed correctly.

I shall speak with Raymond on his Tasks soon, I expect progress. I shall be harder on him than most, though none will have an easy time. Much weighs upon his heart and mind; one can see it in his eyes. He has angered me once as I have to have had heard it from a Keeper first and not himself.

He may, or may not, realize how much of what is important to him is dependant on how he performs his Tasks...now and in the future if he tests out. I sensed it on him as soon as I gained a knowing of him and knew how I would test him.

He stutters the wrong direction, but I have faith in him because of the words he spoke to me. Trust is built slowly, but he progresses with me in this a little at a time, our next meeting will dictate much.

He will learn, if I must beat it into his head and spank him like a child, that all that is important or needs to be done.......

Need not be done alone.

And, She will be dealt with. The younglings of Us will learn, early, what it means to serve the Grove and how to do it proper....the most important lesson of all, for all that matters stems from this situation, as Azrael and I agreed upon in the Merchant Camp, and the younglings shall soon learn or fail.

I do not think they take seriously when I say the path we walk is not easy....

-Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

Our ranks, particularly, the Seekers of the Rangers continue to swell. I find myself with hardly anytime to wander the Wilds as my heart would wish.

Between overseeing the Seekers and pursuring my founding of the Council, I find myself with little time. I will see the Council formed, evil shadows the Land. In some matters we must remain neutral, but at times, we must learn to cooperate with other whose goals are similar to Ours even if their ideals are not, lest we all be consumed.

Alas, I would have it hardly any other way. I have found my purpose as Tarsakh wished of me. Though it takes up most of my time, I feel it is important as the city pulls at me more. I find my attitudes at it changing...or becoming less judgemental than they used to be. Years ago, I would have seen them burned and stricken from the landscape to see the Land pure and whole. Now? I am no longer sure.

Wisdom comes with age and with all must evolve and grow, lest we stagnate and die, such is Natures way also. The humans live such short lives, maybe it is no surprise how they alter the landscape to make their lives easier.

I now have four of them to see to; Raymond, Callen, and the Breyers. I have great hope for them all and they show just as much promise.

I meant with Elais and he shared with me some of his concerns about the goings on around the Land, particularly dealing with Candle Keep. Such actions cannot be allowed to go unchecked and I shall address them to the Elder soon as I am able. We must do something and soon, lest the situation grow out of hand.

I mull the final task for ALL the Seekers in my brain as I write, one can tell...I jump from one topic to the other and back again I am so busy, my journal writing jumping around as my thoughts do....though the Seekers have just begun their tasks. I must speak with them soon to see how they progress. Their final task will be overseen by myself and Azrael. In this task they will learn what it means to serve the Circle, each other, and what it means to walk this Chosen Path. One will learn, in a manner of her choosing, that she cannot strute about the Wilds throwing it out of Balance and pursuing her machinations.

I have much going on that I feel, surely, I shall not stagnate anytime soon.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

I spoke with Valerius about Candle Keep joining our little group, I talked him into bringing the matter before his superiors. Azrael gave him the wrong impression. Their role would be one of sharing information and advising and knowledge. I don't even have the whole of it figured out yet, though I think establishing a formal Council of it seems the right direction. A place to plan, coordinate, share, and provide a united front to those things which arise to threaten us all. We are all creatures of the Land, whether most realize it or not, all Life is linked.

As I see it, what of words does a Gnome know? Of eloquence? Of learning how to speak to those in a manner befitting them specifically? Not much, since he failed to convince him intially. He is far to brash in my experience, sublety is needed at times.

But, it is not my place to question him in such a manner. I am glad my Brothers and Sisters seem to be speaking of my work to others, word is spreading. And, that to all of Our benefit. It just leads me to believe more and more I am on the right Path, having had to chose one when I was made full member of the Circle.

I have taken the task upon my own shoulders, but it is OUR work, not solely mine nor will all be due to my effort alone.

I probed him to what he know of the two in their midst who play with that which has no place upon this Plane. He said one is in trouble for something already and didn't know he had an apprentice.

I would venture he does not know the depths of this ones sins against the natural order or he thinks I am a dunce. Either way, he was given a subtle warning that such things will not be allowed to continue without consequence.

If they do not handle it proper, the Circle and the others shall do it for them. Valerius is not stupid and his words rang honest with me, but my nature will not allow me to trust him.

Not yet.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

Silverleaf has returned to teach his charges and I shall still assist at his request. I am glad to still be involved; they will come through me first and if worthy, onto the Warden himself. I do not think many realize the task of teaching and testing those who wish to join us.

It is a burden, a heavy one, frought with responsibility and duty. And, filled will joy and enrichment of the spirit when you see one you teach attain wisdom.

The Warden honors me with the duty, more than words would be capable of describing

I am proud of how far Raymond has come, he wears that which haunts him upon his face for all to see if only they have the sight to behold it. But, he has learned and grown and shown honor and intelligence. He engages others beyond our group and hears/learns much to our benefit, much as I once did when I walked where he does now.

He said to me it was as if I could read his thoughts, we are more alike than he thinks, but that is not for now, though I told him a little of it. I am quite capable of learning of others; their thoughts, their reactions, and so on. It is only a matter of time, patience, and getting to know someone.

He goes to the Warden to continue his Path and his training and tasks. I think he is more ready than he realizes and I wish him the best.

A Banite Priest roams the Land, spreading his evil and tyranny. The Council will be made aware of this one as well...

If only they would meet and I could be heard...there is much going on that needs to be discussed or the Elders made aware of.

I grow impatient, but Tarsakh is a good leader and has been a fine mentor. I shall hold my tongue, for now. They usually know more than I anyway, I just add more to the pot....

But not always....

I find that amusing....

-Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

[[Silverlining inspired me to write this, thanks for the great rp hon and WELCOME BACK]]

I walked across the bridge, near the merchant camp.

Sure of my step, my station....my Purpose...my Work.

In one short convesation and chance meeting it all slipped away from me...the sureness.

My world shaken at the loss.

Of a friend.

Of an ally.

Of one I cared for and never told.

An opportunity lost, matters of the heart my one glaring weakness in all I do, if one cares to see it.

A different name, her but not her and the other never to return.

She believed my words and took my promise and renewed my vow of friendship to her, has she need of me, she will have it.

So alike and yet so different.

For a short time my heart sank, I would not be where I am nor who I am now without her and her efforts and friendship in the past. She being the one most responsible for where I am NOW, due to her friendship, loyalty and all the rest, the only other close to these facts in responisbility being Tarsakh himself, my mentor and friend.

Alas, it is sad, but I am grateful for a new beginning, it is better than nothing.

But, my world is shaken and now I step slower this day and not as I did when I left The Duchal Palace as though I could move the Planes with my swagger.

I am tired, shaken and I must rest. I feel as driven as ever, though now I felt taken aback...by what? I am not sure, matters of the heart have never been my strong suit, friend and lover both, her one and not the other.

Has the Father knocked me down a peg? Have I been to robust, to proud lately? All I have accomplished is in His Name, I have recieved no badness from it, heart or mind or spirit.

Have I been made honest by the Father? I feel as such...I must rest and collect myself.

I think her plight has made me honest, in a moment it can all be taken away, gone...all of it..only the spirit remains, fresh as a new born babe.

I shall learn from this, if I might, there is wisdom in her plight. She might be one of difference now, in her mind, but...

Her fierce independence remains, she always kept me honest, even if she does not realize it...and

I still have my friend, that is what matters I think...I hope it to be true.

Oh, Father, I hear you, this one is humbled, but I shall continue...so mote it be.

-Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

Archer gives me a headache and reminds me of the Why of what I do, the way I do it.

He is either a naive fool who is unwilling to act or just probes my beliefs to enquire if he wishes to become a Seeker. I suspect a bit of both.

Made more complicated by the fact that I find human behavior the following: annoying, erratic, unreasonable, and short sighted not necessarily in that order. I admit, I have little experience with them and those they reach beyond their failings are to be admired. For I to admire one, if they know how my heart feels, is not a small feat.

He may believe as he wishes, but my heart is settled on these matters and his questioning shall convince this One of no other way. I am reasonable and will talk, but will not hesitate to act to protect the Circle, the Land or any that which matters to me. Of the speaking, my Work proves I am no xenophobic militant.

Along those lines, not concerning Archer, but in general...I tire of explaining myself to all I encounter of the Way I pursue my Work. Rumors fly about the Land as if I am embroiling the Circle into an Alliance that shall be beholden to the Dukes.

The independence of the Circle nor our ability to act such will not be compromised. There is no reason we cannot cooperate and share information and learn of the ways of others without giving up that which makes Us what we are. Wisdom is a derivative as knowledge, knowledge of experience. If we do not reach beyond our self imposed confines, we shall not grow and learn. If the tree is not watered, it will not grow.

I will meet with Archer again and continue. I am split as to whether he would make a good addition to the Grove. On one hand, he infuriates me. The other, he shows wisdom of deep thought and careful consideration much as Eleanor does. It is not a wonder she speaks so highly of them.

Even the Grove, I told him, has its politics. It is up to him to prove to me he will be an asset and not a hindrance.

Talking is fine, but there comes a time when action is needed and none of this: “What of this Galen? What of that Galen?” and so forth. I will not stand and prattle while the world burns. He says he serves Silvanus, but I have my doubts as to the how of it. Would he speak to the necromancer that revives a tomb of those at peace for his own nefarious needs? His act is one of abomination, of spitting in the face of proper burial and the end of one natural cycle that leads to the next step in ones ultimate journey beyond this Plane. What is there to reason with? Should I attempt to disway every evil doer who taints the land and throws it out of Balance?

There are absolutes in this Life, even in the Chaos of it in which all beings live, whether they admit it or not or even know of it.

Wisdom learned of reason, is not upon a circular path, nor fraught with hesitation, make your stand and know your fate….we all must live with our choices. There is no other way to truly live in the chaos of Life that all things dwell in.

Archer is welcome to believe as he wants, as all in the Grove do, it is his Life. But, he best remember, it is I who have been given the say of who enters the Path; Druid or Ranger. It is I who have the Faith of the Council to see to this matters of Our candidates and many other matters.

I only hope, he questions to delve and dig into my psyche, as is what I promised him. Straight and honest answers and that he is not what he seems. Power radiates off of him like stink off an Orc, one does not come by such without fighting for something one believes in and learning wisdom.

I am steadfast in what I believe and he as well, that, is what I respect. The rest is his own and whether he walks the Path is mine. Gods, he reminds me of Eleanor, would she not be so sheepish and hesitant.

I sense change on the horizon for the Circle, maybe more of this type are needed. I shall consider it, quite deeply. To not do so would be unfair and unwise.

Callen progresses finely in his tasks and I gave him a gift; a periapt of wisdom, my own, as a reward for his steadfast attention and efforts. I have great hope for him, he is more an Elf in some of what he believes being a half blood than some full blooded Elves I know.

I will speak with House Wyndsoul soon, having meant Dallenthel already. I wish them to join the Council. They are valuable in their efforts, wise and have honor and the ear of the people. They handle Drow as they should be and encourage the like. They have much to offer I believe and I will do my best to bring them into the fold, so to speak. Dallenthel gave me a gift of a fine amulet from Evermeet itself, home of most of Us. I was humbled and could not refuse his gift, he saying it was for my efforts in regards to the protection of the Land. I look forward to the meeting of all of them in this House.

Too often, I spend hardly anytime with my own People anymore. I feel a camaraderie around them and sense of purpose and peace I have not felt since I left home so long ago.

My wrist hurts, I have nothing more.

--Galen’ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

This past day I meant a fellow Member of the Circle, one Baalio.

A Dwarven Druid...wonders never cease. I try to not let on that such things surprise me anymore. His might be quite a story, one of Moradin's stout creations who has found his way to the Father. I'll ask him more of it….he said he lived in the Under Dark…tales I’m sure he must not be short on….

I welcome his attitude, one of quick, but careful, consideration and action. Already he has smited one who thinks they can walk Our lands with impunity. Though the Dwarves, as a people, views do not match with my own in many things…his service to the cause of the Land is admirable and wins my mind over my lesser attitudes of those of Moradin’s children who do not walk Our Path.

We spoke of many things; he’s telling me he knows one who might help us flush the taint of the Shadow Weave users from Candle Keep. He will arrange a meeting with this person for me and I shall judge for myself. Motive and lust for revenge may work in our favor, maybe not…only time will tell.

He spoke highly of Valerius, I am unsure but moving toward approaching him with what I know. All around him seem to speak of this and he has been nothing but kind to me. Alas, I am not one to trust easily nor forget. Sometimes the greatest evil wears a face of kindness and speaks words as sweet as a summer wind. I tilt toward letting him know what we know…though I have my doubts as to what those in Candle Keep would do with such knowledge. They thirst for knowledge above all things, maybe even that of the Shadow Weave. I must proceed carefully, Our goal is to flush them out where they can be dealt with properly and pursued while limiting damage to the Land about Candle Keep itself. The more I meet those who dwell within it’s walls, I think to save face for them as well…I do not believe many of them know and if they did know they would act…this is the way I lean. I have stood before the Gates of Candle Keep and conversed hours with those that dwell their, I have sensed goodness about them, though the way they see their Path differs from my own…though this is not an issue.

As Baalio and I stood in the Grove, conversing on these issues…I don’t how to word this other than the following….The Ancient One appeared to Us…he has returned. Only I, Baalio, Raymond and Eleanor have seen him.

He said he has returned from his time of solitude and the Land sorrows from the darkness that rears its head. He has returned to lead Us and provide Us with his wisdom. I told him of all the threats I knew; the Sharrans, the Undead, The Shadow Weave users, and the rest…some linked, some not. Tis why we must meet…and soon…to renew our Fellowship and sort that which is good from bad and plan on how to proceed and to ACT.
He agreed with I and Baalio’s concerned that too many of our numbers do not tend the Land as we should. I leveled no accusations at any, others lives and families and concerns our their own. The service to the Grove and the Land is MY life, on my Oath.

I have no children, none to love…only my service to the Land sustains me. We merely agreed that with our numbers growing and changing, we must do MORE. Be more visible, be more decisive and act to protect that which all swore to.

We will move forward, the others can come if they so choose. To long have we not done as our Oaths promise of Us, to long have we wandered on our Path and Purpose. We shall do more and we shall do better.

With the Ancient One returned, I am renewed in my Purpose and the fire that lights my soul and fuels the very center of me burns as does the heart of a full blown forge. All I have done, He told me I have shown wisdom and patience and that I should continue my work; though he clarified a few points to me as that I must remember sometimes the winds change and shift. I answered that I am confident that those I seek to align along the lines of common defense and cooperation and understanding will remain rooted with Us, even if the winds do shift. I cannot see the future, but those we seek to ally with and form the Council, many I call friend and faith in friends is as strong as any other type.

He seemed satisfied with my answer and a reminder never hurts, lest I lose my focus and I wander myself. Though, any who truly know me, know that such a thing is impossible in my current state. As I said, my Work is my Life as is my service to the Grove and the Land.

I feel as though my own blood Father has smiled upon with his approval and I bask in it in my heart of hearts, as my Father was a hard one to please and expected much.

It lightens my spirit this day and gives me hope for the future and Our cause…

Truly…

--Galen’ael Glenstalker

[SteelForgedSword]

The Drow continue to come, my letter is sent.

We shall do something to fight this scourage and soon...the Circle will act and soon, if it be alone, then so be it.

I am hopeful for help, the purpose of the expedition is to do as the letter says to help one of our own...I shall not write of it here.

He has learned and he is now in...He learned today we are Family. He shall fully realize this when they lay dead at our feet and when he and his mate can find the happiness they deserve.

Their love for each other warms my cold heart and brings joy to the joyless. All I have is my work and the Circle; naught else matters to me.

The two opportunites meld and present themselves as it was meant to be. The first will be accomplished to see to Our own, the second...a message will be sent with those who will choose to remain.

If I must hunt them for weeks in the Darkness Below, I will find them and they shall have their fear thrust back at them. They will learn Our Lands, all of the factions, are not a play thing to amuse themselves.

The days of the Circle not acting are Over, now and for as long as I draw breath. I have taken one under my wing as my Attache, my eventual apprentice to my Work, for which he has shown a penchant for and wisdom to boot, though he has much to learn of poetic and pretty words; though my words are heart felt and true all the same.

His path is done, his path has begun anew. And woe to those who cross him, Us. We begin to form a bond not many ever realize; one of honor, loyalty, respect and Family.

I shall hunt as I did with Father as a youngling...I have not forgotten how, I never shall.

We shall hunt and, firstly, joy will come to those who deserve it, then my sword will find a black throat and spill blood in the Lands Below.

We shall stand in fear and inaction...no longer.

--Galen'ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

Well,

After exploding my worries upon all in the Grove, I hope my point has been made.

I am ever calm and collected, all must vent once in a great while, lest it eat you live and spoil your spirit.

I must do more to manage my stress, exploding in such a manner is not healthy, nor positive.

On the same token, I do not regret it...at times such things need to be said. If they will look to me for leadership, they shall hear my concerns. I speak plainly and know no other way.

At times, I feel as though I and a few others bear the burden alone....

What of this Galen? What of that Galen? Why Galen? How Galen?

Part of me tires of it all; the whining, the complaining, the lack of organization, the lack of visibility of the Circle in general, the tending of the Seekers. The lack of action by the Council and some of the Elders; most of them are never seen, never heard, and do diservice to the Ancient One and the Land. I never asked to be a leader, merely done what was asked of me to the best of my ability as Father taught me. You do something, you do it well, there is no other way. Is it my fault I have all this thrust upon me because I do what I swore to do to the best of my talents?

Alas, I am an Elfing of my Honor, my Word. I took my Oath and I shall see to it. If a being does not see to his Oaths, no matter the type, he is nothing and a shell of what he or she claims to be.

My fate drew me to this place, the death of my Mentor, the Old Man…dead at the hands of the Dhaerow, he died in my arms, the Light of Life leaving his eyes forever…

I am here and I shall do my best, I’ll not forget all that the Old Man taught me, all he sacrificed so that I might live…another tale for another time…and that Tarsakh finished and continues to teach, teach me.

I ask again, Is it my fault I have all this thrust upon me because I do what I swore to do to the best of my talents?

No, it simply is. Some of us are born to lead, others are not. Growing up, I never thought such would be asked of me. Father was the following, albeit simplified, “That is evil, I shall go kill it…”

But, I am here, I have sworn my Oath. I was warned of it entailed upon the day of the completion of my Tasks, when the Arch Druid swore me in himself. I need not elaborate further, lest I ramble as I tend to do in my writing.

On to the one thing I am inept at; women.

Nyx: an enigmatic Tiefling woman I have spent much of limited free time with recently. Her heritage does not befit her spirit nor what I know of her. My Elven blood screams to not trust an infernal, to spit upon them. Alas, I could not do such a thing. She has been kind and her shy manner is full of mystery. I have enjoyed her company.

Catrina: a human girl of twenty something years, much older than the years upon her face. Her life made what it is by the experiments of some foul wizard, her feline features speak to this. Having a close feline friend myself, we have found much in common and have spent some time together.

Tonay: formerly, Sylvia. A women running from her past for she has no memory of it. She seeks to start anew, though still deals with Sylvia’s business which threatens her safety. I have spoken with her and our friendship is as it was. I confessed I once cared for her, Sylvia, and never told her. I told Tonya, but I see her rarely. The other two remind me of her, all of each other.

I must take more time for myself, before I burn myself out and enjoy Life. Work is Life, but Life is not always nor must be Work. I would be no good to anyone in my present state or worse.

I must learn to relax more.

-Galen’ael Glenstalker.

[SteelForgedSword]

The days pass and roll along as any other...I feel like I have been here for years...maybe it has been.

The sun rises, then sets...it hardly matters.

I think I now know the why of why some of the others stay away from the city and dwell in the Wilds, nearly whole, as I once did.

Everywhere I turn, I get pulled into affairs of others.

Tonya and her quest for redemption, I offered the help of our best Ranger but she denied him and walked away from me offering no explanation...

I need none and I know her well. He has a family and his mate will not let him do something so dangerous; besides they have little ones to consider. A consideration I do not have; all around me I see families and love...the things Life is truly about. I am happy for them all and at the same time it makes my heart ache.

I am not alone, but am.

And, yet, I will not turn from helping her...I owe her much and it is an affair of the Grove. A friend is a friend, my honor nor my heart will allow nothing else. I will find another to help and help regardless.

I have much to say at the Meeting this coming day or so; my most recent news will be more than I had to say before...it never seems to end, only mount atop of each other. We have much to discuss and it will good to renew Our fellowship. Much in the Grove changes, one can sense it.

All things must live, grow or die upon the Vine...we are no different. The Seekers do well and take their time; I am pleased with all of them. I have great hope for Callen and Phaelen both.

The life of solitude I crave, that calls out to my very soul is out of reach to me. I have taken a vow, an Oath and will see to it...no matter the Path it leads me down. Some whose affairs continually trouble me, involve are as close to me as any in the Grove. I call more, in this Land, friend than in my entire century and a half living in the High Forrest. I am loyal, I am resolved and I will not let Darkness consume the Land or those that I care for.

I do not feel....burnt out? All I have is my Work, the work of the Grove, the machinations and troubles of friends...Life is about so much more. One merely has to look upon Raymond and Eleanor to see this.

In my weaker moments, it angers me and I lose control as I did with Raymond today. I understand, but do not agree, he has Blood Family to see it.

I am not jealous...merely..lonely. I am surrounded by friends and purpose, but sometimes I feel as though I have nothing.

Nothing, but my work...

It is my fault, my tongue ties and my heart stills and my thoughts collaspe in matters of emotion and heart. It begins to boil over and affect me more than I admit.

I had no right to say to Raymond what I did, he has been...a friend and an ally. I owe him an apology.

I do not tire of the Fight, the Land or my Work; all of which is linked. I found Purpose in this place and fullfillment of that which was promised to me in the work of the Ancient One.

My power has grown expontenitally as has my understanding and control of it...a small respite. I like being good at what I do, for no matter what I do I shall do it well.

I only tire of being alone and not reaching out to those around me who do care; though that part of my heart which desires that which Raymond has is empty, a small void, but one that weighs upon me like a boulder of granite.

I do not know of such things, though I feel I must learn soon lest it eat me alive.

All I know,

Is that each morning the sunrises and I must rise to face it...as I always do.

There is no other way.

-Galen'ael Glenstalker.