3. Maya's Second Journal

Maya's Second Journal


  • _Maya swung repeatedly at the practice dummy. With growing frustration she danced around it, and more than once lost her balance. Finally, drenched in sweat, she stopped and arched her back.

    She stared up into the clouds for a long time, eyes filled with longing. Slowly, almost unconsciously, she spread her arms to catch the wind. The gusts ruffled the feathers in her hair, and wiped away the single tear the spread across her cheek.

    Blinking, she looked back at the dummy, and went into the inn for the evening._

    Entry 190 – Death

    I fall to demon other day. Was part of great journey to get rid of demons from Jiyyd, and defend large magic stone that druid must pray to.

    I do not remember much of. I remember get very confuse, but could still see demon and knew it must die. Belia must be defend at cost of my life. I remember see demon fall, as life was taken from me.

    I hope was death worthy of Tempus, but I awake near Tristina in Norwick. Tempus has other things for me to do, I think. I feel shame though, at be only one who fall.

    Week later I was in Peltarch, and was fight raiders with great magic. One of them touch me, and like when Corde touch me, was same, but worse. And just like when Corde touch me, Tempus said no, Maya will not die this way.

    But now, after fall once and almost fall again, I have memory. Memory I think I should not have.

    Many years ago, after I fall in very bad place, I wake up in forest. A woman of forest with name of Marda tend to me. She says she found me in forest, surround by birds, and I had wings.

    I remember fighting something, and bone, metal and flesh part like straw against my axe. I remember flying. Is like dream trying to disappear when I wake, but it does not.

    This feeling of be able to fly happen sometimes, when I get very angry, and Tempus is in me. My eyes bleed, and I can feel self almost float across the ground. Now, when I look at sky, I feel I should be there.

    …and it hurts that I am not.

    I hope this memory is taken from me. It feels if I am asleep, and need to wake up. It makes me feel I do not belong here


  • _Maya hit the top of the post with a mallet one last time, and jiggled it to make sure it was secure. Satisfied, she turned to the child Dylan, who looked so small and unsure standing there with the practice sword.

    “There! Now you will hit post forty times. Twenty times on right side, then twenty times on left side.”

    “But Maya, I thought….?”

    “No think”, Maya interrupted. “You promise me no questions, just do as I say”

    Dylan shoulders sagged, “Yes Maya”

    “Do not hit with all strength at first, or will not be able to hold sword for much”, Maya instructed

    Dylan gave the post a good whack, and dropped the sword in surprise holding his hand and his wrist. “OW!”

    Maya chuckled, “You not listen. Try again, but no so hard. Hard come with much, much practice.”

    Dylan picked up the sword again, tapping it on the post while Maya counted. A couple of the patrons and waitresses of the Grapevine Inn watched curiously. Dylan’s dog sat obediently near the door of the inn, tongue hanging loose. The rhythmic sounds of Dylan’s sword practice were lost in the noise of construction, as the rest of Norwick went about its business._

    Entry 189 – Life

    Life is begin as should be around Norwick. I teach Dylan to swing sword, and father watch. I tell father if watch must be quiet and not interrupt, or I stop teach. Dylan bring dog by to watch too. Is funny and very smart dog with name of “Boxer”. I like dog much, and feed him few scraps from inn.

    I still cannot find good place for shrine to Tempus. Are many good place, but I cannot decide. I want be perfect. I still not ask Dwin yet, but want wait until have perfect place.

    I help Parsley kill big rat. I help Tristina move furniture. Devos has problem with sword swing, and always throw self off balance, so I help fix. Bylard need me hold up wagon so he can put block underneath for fix wheel.

    I even get reply letter from Yana. She is learn much, and is proud of her skill, but thinks her teacher is too strict. I laugh at this, because is what she need.

    I hope life stays like this, for time.


  • _Norwick is once again full of life as people come out of their homes to venture into the sunlight. People chat loudly. Some laugh. Children cavort and rampage through the streets chasing balls and hoops. The sounds of overdue construction echo from the hill sides.

    Maya lies on the roof of the Grapevine Inn, away from the hubbub below. She is stretched out, legs and arms splayed in reckless abandon. She wears little, her skin turning pink with the cold…and smiles._

    Entry 188 – The Sun

    Sun has come out! I spend all morning just lay on roof of inn with not much on. Was silly thing for do because was windy cold day, and now have wind burn on places I should not.

    But I just have to. Sun come out!

    Have done many things quiet and not so quiet. I travel to Peltarch with Parsley Tealeaf, and just wander around. I duel for fun with people in Bodak, and can still not beat Drelan without get angry. His defend is too good, but I learn much. Was good fun for quiet day, and is no dishonor lose against crafty warrior. I have plan for next time though!

    I help Norwick kill evil tree that have magic to make darkness. Was very hard fighting with many scorpion-men creatures, but we manage to kill one. Others must have been busy too, for darkness is gone.

    I am try get used to be Militia again, and is hard. I need get routine back.

    I do not know what is going to happen to Sisterhood. Many are gone. While I was in Damara with Yana, I think all pack up and move away. Even Nicahh. People in inn are still part of, and are few around, so I will try to gather and make Grapevine Inn new home maybe.

    Funny thing happen few days ago though. I meet Rary and Lyte on road, and they say bandits ahead. I go with them, and get shot at with arrow. I take my big bow and shoot back, and few drop to ground. But they have bridge block, and not let us pass.

    Am not sure what happen, but now people of Eastlander blood are claim land again, and claim bridge. They charge 1 gold for cross. It seem Lyte refuse to pay, say is being robbed, and was trick into draw first blood. This is how fight start.

    Long ago, I ask Adam about Eastlander. He say that according to books he read, they have good claim to land from ancestor. I have seen these people much, every time I go to monument to forgotten soldier, and ask Tempus watch over spirit of dead soldiers. But they never bother me, other than ask tribute of 1 gold for cross their land.

    When I was grow up, hunters who cross other tribes land would pay tribute in skins, horns, or meat for right to hunt. Is way of life. Someone claims land have three choice – Leave, pay tribute, or fight.

    I do not want this land, and have no fight with these people, so I pay tribute. I make deal with Adrian of Eastlander for warm boots, and now not even have to pay again. Old Eastlander would try kill if cross land. These just want tribute.

    If Norwick wish to claim land, then of course I will fight them. Is way of Tempus. But Norwick has enough land, and I do not see cause for draw blood for 1 gold, or pair of boots.


  • _Maya is seen walking around Norwick. She stops at various locations, turns and looks in all directions before shaking her head. Then she moves on to the next location, and repeats.

    Seemingly unsatisfied, this goes on for days._

    Entry 187 – The Visit

    I am not sure how to write about what happen. One moment was exit inn, when hear Raven make noise. I turn and was bright bolt that almost blind me, which is usual Tempus way for send spirit of ancestor to see me, to give me message. I take feather and burn body, to send spirit back, but as soon as take feather, I am somewhere else.

    I do not know if am somewhere else, or is dream. So much is not clear to me, but what I see was celestial of Tempus stand before me, and speak for Tempus.

    He tells me of the war between demons and devils, and how they are different. If demons win, all will be destroyed, and there will be no more battles. If devils win, all will be controlled by great evil, and there will be no more battles.

    Tempus does not want this.

    Somehow, this celestial from Tempus makes me understand this. He touches me with his sword, and I know. He speaks, and I remember. But now is like dream to me.

    But I remember how he said Tempus was very proud of me, for bringing warriors of Tempus to this great battle, and bring attention to him. I am to be watchful of these demons and devils, and slay them. He says I am to be his eyes here in this land, so that he can watch. He says I am here to bring people to Tempus, so they will fight with his name on their lips. Word was “Inspire” I think, which when I ask Tristina she says it means to be a good example.

    When the celestial speaks these words, my heart swell so much that tears come. What I have done is good in his eyes, and I will come to him when I die as warrior should.

    So now things begin again for me in Norwick.

    I have ask Devlin to take me into militia again, as master at arms, to train militia. I work part time at inn now when militia duty allow so people will see my heart. I will teach the children of Norwick to be great warriors, so that when years pass, people will hear of the warriors of Norwick, and be afraid.

    Finally, I will build shrine here to Tempus, so when I am gone, people will still speak his name.


  • _A despondent Maya stands on the southern wall of Peltarch, her elbows resting on one of the crenellations, her chin in her hands. She sighs a long disappointed sigh, staring south across the Nars.

    Three crenellations over, a raven sits picking on leftover food a guard had for lunch. It looks up at Maya, cocks its head, and lets out a loud raucous “Caw”. Maya turns in annoyance and sticks her tongue out at it, before it ignores her and continues eating.

    Frowning, Maya looks down in her hand at a small, six inch stone bastard sword, wrapped in red hair. With disgust she crumbles it in a steel fisted gauntlet, and then watches the dust blow out across the Nars._

    Entry 186 – Disappointment

    Now that Corde is maybe dead, I have been do best to try to clean up city. I fight remains of N’Jast soldier, and undead Eastlanders. I have try to find Kara to challenge, or servant of Asmodeus to challenge, or anything let me do what dream tell me do, but is nothing

    Now I hear, Kara is dead.

    I am sure Tempus is please that she is dead, but I miss honor of face her in battle. I am not sure was even supposed to, but Tempus gives me sign, but no place and time for, so I am left hear about battle from rumor and friends.

    Perhaps am selfish, and this honor was not for me, but I wanted it much.

    But I keep hear words of Zargothis, in vision and dream, of strike down, and another one come. Somehow I know, this is not end, and will be another replace Kara. If this one strike down, then another…and another. Is like endless deck of fortune cards that always show devils, and somehow must figure how to cut deck of cards in half so no more cards be drawn.

    I just wish was smart enough to know where find deck of cards full of devils.


  • _Battle swirled in the darkness in sea of goblins. Their pitched cries of anger, pain, and suffering surrounded Maya as she spun desperately trying to keep axe and sword away from her.

    In the midst of this, stood Corde.

    Maya saw the figure, cloaked in shadow, his countenance familiar, his bearing arrogant. With a cry of exultation, she spun away from the battle, using her long stride to leap over goblin and sword. A look of surprise shattered Corde’s mask of arrogance as Maya’s axe whistled in a searing arc. One blow to end it all. One blow to end the night.

    But the same twists fate that allowed Maya to reach Corde took it all away in odd luck and circumstance. The night, which Corde wrought upon Norwick had prevented the sun from drying the grass, which was still slippery with dew. As Corde frantically ducked back, the goblin behind him slipped. Corde fell sideways near Maya, the axe whistling inches over his head. Maya in turn fell forwards over Corde and several of the goblins.

    … and Corde simply reached out and touched her.

    “Verrack nigh, fornuth Shar…”, the dark words enveloped her.

    Within moments, as Corde regained his footing, Maya’s life spilled upon the ground around her, drawn forth by the dark magic.

    … and she collapsed in a heap, and moved no more.

    –

    A 10 year old Maya looked up into the sun and blinked. Her grandfather stood over her in the snow.

    “Maya, you have to get up”

    “I…I can’t. I think it’s broken”

    Kneeling beside her, her grandfather stroked her hair, “Did I ever tell you how proud I am? How proud I am of you?”

    Maya just looked up into his reassuring face and blinked.

    “Here…let me help”

    Large, strong hands picked her up and pulled her to her feet. The snow dissolved. The sun was replaced with darkness, and battle raged around her. The words echoed in the back of Maya’s mind, the vision of his bearded face, forest and snow fading in the darkness._

    Entry 185 – Corde

    Yesterday, I fight Corde.

    Battle is funny sometimes. I have dream of behead Corde, and end all suffering here, but it not happen that way. Corde slip in grass, goblin slip in grass, I slip in grass, and make big heap on ground. If happen in Bard play, I would probable laugh.

    But was not laugh was Corde use dark magic on me, and I fall to ground. I not remember so much, but think dream of grandfather. Has been long time, since I dream of him.

    But is good thing anyway. Z was able catch him before he run back to woods, and cut him down. But like all great evil, am not sure if really is gone. I ask Tempus to smite holy symbol though, and was reward with much magic and shattered pieces.

    If Corde come back, I hope this time only thing fall will be head from his shoulders.


  • _Maya stands on the wall of Peltarch, looking south at N’Jast’s gathering forces. Her hair is washed carefully braided. Her armor polished, but much of it is hidden under a tabard which proudly displays the symbol of Tempus. Her cloak has been bleached of the Norwick red, and has the symbol of Tempus displayed on its back.

    She looks up into the heaven, eyes wide, and prays …

    “Tempus, I am here as you ask, for battle. Thank you for allow me to fight beside friends. If I fall, please take care of friends in this battle. Bless them and give them courage, even when all seem lost. Even if pray to others, many fight with your name on their lips, and know that you watch”

    “Bless the battle coming. I pray I do right in your eyes”_

    Entry 184 – Besieged

    Dwin has given me answer to problem of where to fight. He release me from service, and ask I fight in Tempus name. In turn, I ask him take care of Yana when she come.

    I also meet with Devlin. I ask if I fall, that he be charge of teach Yana of Tempus. She is headstrong and not listen to me sometimes, but I think will listen to Devlin.

    I do not fight for Peltarch, because I not like much anyway. Instead I fight Kara because Tempus asks, and I fight for friends who have fight for me more times can count. If fight here with them can save life of friends, will be worth all. Finally, I fight for Tempus, who I hope is proud of what his champion become, and does in his name.

    It will be great honor to face such worthy foe, and hope have honor of victory too. But I know fight will be hard, and is good chance will fall. If do, I hope some bard tells stories of me to his girl, so she can sleep and dream of them too.


  • _Maya sits alone on a hill outside of Norwick, looking north. The polish of her armor has faded, the tabard stained. Her hair has remained in braids for too long, and have turned frizzy with neglect.

    With shield on her back and axe at her side, she folds her legs, resting her arms and chin on her knees. Taking a deep breath, she sighs._

    Entry 183 – Waiting

    I do not understand, any of this. I do not understand at all.

    Tempus has give sign that I must fight Corde and Kara too. Yet, I cannot do both. Cannot and be faithful to what Tempus teach.

    I am citizen of Norwick. Am champion. If I leave Norwick for help friend, then I disobey Tempus when he say honor agreement. Dwin has make agreement Norwick stay out of war with N’Jast, so I do too. Is only right. I am warrior for Norwick. So I fight evil priest name Corde, and his war against Norwick. This part is good.

    But if leave Norwick and fight N’Jast, Tempus will be angry with me.

    So friends now fight and die up north, and I sit and do nothing. Is too late now, I cannot even make to fight. All of N’Jast army is in way.

    How can fight Kara, without fight N’Jast? How can let friends battle alone?

    Must be some way for fight Kara without fight N’Jast. Must be something am supposed to do, but I do not know it. Is day I very much miss Adam. He would tell me. He would help me understand.


  • _A night’s soft breeze tickled the curtains of an open window. Maya sat at in a chair in front of a small table, her legs barely fitting underneath. She was clothed simply, in loose fitting garments. Her hair was still stained with blood. A lamp glowed softly, it’s low flame barely illuminating the pages of her journal.

    Maya started to write, stopped, and started again, often pausing to reflect on recent events._

    Entry 182 – Honoring the Fallen

    Is hard for me to write all that happen yesterday. I am tired from all things that happen, and all things I feel, yet I cannot sleep. All that is to come will come, but now I worry more than any time in life. Maybe is because I was take many thing for granted, and not realize what people mean to me, unless gone.

    @90dd6d2222:

    Devlin strode up beside her, and bumped her hip playfully. Lyte’s calm reassurance kept her focused, as they crept through the forest, avoiding what they could.

    We go to the evil city name Mintas, which has been bad place for long time. Aramuil thinks there are devils there, soldiers and wizards from old Empire come back to make trouble. He thinks they start war, and are behind troubles here.

    @90dd6d2222:

    The shadowy form of Zargothis appeared briefly on the periphery of Maya’s vision. His voice, a low, cold rumbling whispered loudly to her, “Strike me down, but HE sends another!”

    Throughout whole trip, I keep see Zargothis. Was evil knight from long time ago, that I defeat. But no one else see him! Everyone think am crazy, because I talk and shout at nothing. Is like have dream, while awake. Like vision, but not.

    @90dd6d2222:

    _Ginger appeared from the shadows, and quietly addressed the group. “Guards. They know we're here now”, she said.

    People gathered themselves, and prayed. When they moved forward, battle was joined immediately._

    It start off good enough. Was many large animals in forest, but are able defeat them without too much trouble. We must be careful, because many of them are very large and strong.

    Soon, we find these people of old Empire. They are gather in ruins. There are many devils there, soldiers of much skill, and very evil wizards. Battle was hard but we fight well, and defeat all that come to us and fight.

    @90dd6d2222:

    _A man gasped as balls of twinkling magic impacted his back, sending him sprawling. Dark arcane tendrils snaked toward Ginger, who momentarily gasped but prevailed. The battle surged around Maya, who spun and whirled, axe hissing and cleaving through iron and flesh. The ringing of steel, the smell of blood, the cries of defeat, and the shouts of victory surged though her.

    …and Tempus watched._

    Soon, Aramuil say we have proof we need, and should leave. There are many questions though, of why we not stay for defeat more of them. So we stay too long. Soon, we find out evil wizards and soldiers have call reinforcements. Great machines of dark magic. Some, I see before. Some not. There are many of them. Too many.

    Soon, friends are scatter, but I hear Devlin voice rise above rest.

    I was unsure where attack. I was drink so many potion, and use all Tempus blessing for survive magic of evil machines. But words give me hope, and soon I am in battle for life.

    @90dd6d2222:

    _“Take it down! Take it down!”, Devlin shouted. “Fight back!”

    Maya paused, unsure of where to make a stand,, but the words galvanized her resolve. Soon, she was joined beside Devlin and a host of others. Quickly, Maya found herself surrounded by the machines. One went down in a flurry of strikes, but three more took its place.

    Maya’s shield came up, but the mechanical arm that smashed upon it buckled her knees. Maya rolled aside and stood up, but another metal arm raked across her side, parting the steel of the Damaran plate and spilling her blood onto the ground.

    She was knocked against the stone wall of the ruins. Her shield fell at her side. She took one last swing of her axe, sure that she would be meeting Tempus soon.

    Then out of the chaos, a slender hand touched her shoulder. In that brief moment, Maya looked into Lyte’s eyes, her face determined, clinging desperately to hope.

    “Live”

    As warmth flooded Maya’s body, filling her with enough strength to push her way past the machine, Lyte was whirled away from her. Maya saw Lyte picked up by one of the machines…

    …and bashed lifelessly against the ruins._

    Battle did not go well. I hear cries of friends all around me. We knock down one machine but there are so many more I know battle is hopeless. Still we fight. I not leave Devlin stand there alone.

    I use up almost all healing. Am about to fall, and Lyte heals me, last thing she do before be killed herself. Was very brave act from old friend. I know she prays to another, but Tempus was still proud of her.

    @90dd6d2222:

    _With fury and resignation, Devlin shouted.

    “Retreat!”_

    Then everyone left alive realize is hopeless. Should have realize sooner, but have never fought machines like this before. Now I know that maybe I can beat one, but five is too many.

    Everyone pull back to gate. Some people grab body, and what things could, when all realize we miss someone.

    Lyte.

    Lyte’s body is still not recover, and Devlin rushes in to get her. He is quickly killed by one of machines.

    (there is a mark on the paper here, where the ink has gotten wet)

    I do not know what to do. I am fill with anger. I am fill with rage. I am fill with such sad, that my heart break. But I can do nothing but die too. Rary comes back with Lyte’s body, but Devlin is stuck there, and no one can get. I retreat with rest, and am fill with shame. So I make decide that I will go get him, or die too. I cannot leave Devlin body to be dishonor and use by evil people. Soul must be judge by Tempus, not imprison by evil wizard. So people retreat away, and am left alone.

    @90dd6d2222:

    “The greater battle will not come if you do this one”

    Then there is familiar figure. It shimmer in light. Voice from person I fight beside long ago. Is hard to say who, but is like old Kara, not new one. It tell me that I cannot die here, and if do the battle Tempus has for me will not come.

    So I retreat…and I cry.

    We eventual make it back to Norwick, but I go straight to Shrine of Tempus in Peltarch. I ask Tempus watch over Devlin body and spirit, and take care of him. Make sure he not be use for evil purpose.

    I leave great magic statue I earn as champion of Norwick as gift for Tempus, because I do not know what else to give. I hope Tempus can use.

    Later, I meet Devlin and was very surprise. He was rescue by great War Priest of Tempus name Arkady and return to us. It said Tempus was so please with Devlin, that War Priest hear in prayer, and come to aid. Some day, I would like meet this person, and thank him. It would be honor for meet person who has so much of Tempus favor.

    That night, Devlin and I talk much. I clean him up best as can, and remove blood on skin, hair, and clothes. He is worry because is weak, and cannot fight as strong as once was. But while he grow old, and maybe weaker, I think heart grow stronger.

    That night, I take him to my bed. He fall asleep, with head on my chest. We not even make pleasures, but hearts are closer I think, than if did.


  • Entry 181 – Signs

    There is so much I need put in journal, that I am not sure even where begin. There have been so many signs, I feel Tempus is try tell me something, but I cannot figure out.

    I have been having dreams at night. I have three dreams all the same. In dreams, Zargothis and I fight. While fight, he calls me foolish, and nothing can stop HIS will, and that even if kill him, others will come. He says HIS work almost done, and that I cannot stop.

    Then I behead, and dream ends.

    Who is HIS? I know Zargothis was evil knight. I already defeat, but I never know who he fight for. I only know he is very evil. I remember Adam, Zargothis and me have meeting full of tension in our house, but cannot remember exactly what say. Was so long ago, but must be important.

    Since I have three dream, I think maybe are three knights, or three people work for this evil god. It bothers me much that I do not know who, and that evil gods work is almost done. I do not think Corde is one, because I know he worships god of shadows. Zargothis different, and was always try make bargain.

    Then there is raven. Even though I was born tribe of Griffon, grandfather and other relative belong Tribe of Raven. It is their spirits who give me messages from Tempus. This I know.

    While I was up near Peltarch with Rhyndar, which is other story must get to, I see raven follow us. I think maybe must get back to Norwick before dark, because he was going to give me another dream. But then, I meet old student of Adam! Was name Arryn….Arryn Raven. More raven there too! But he give me no words of wisdom.

    I wish I was smart, like Adam. Maybe should talk to Aramuil. He is smart, and will know maybe how to figure out dreams and things.

    So now I get to things more light of heart.

    Rhyndar make confession that used to have me in his heart, and that maybe still do. I do not have strong heart for him, but am much flatter. Was funny though that he say could only tell me this after he has woman of own now, name of Nako.

    I think about this, and realize that maybe he tell me now because is safe. Since already have woman, heart cannot be hurt.

    Or maybe just want two woman.

    Yesterday, I take woman name of Sela on long trip from Norwick to shrine of Tempus. I tell her much of Tempus, and she is very interest. When I get to shrine, she reads words and take them so much to heart, that tears come to eyes. Then she say something I not expect. Something I not even think about, but she do.

    I mention to her that I wanted try to move shrine of Tempus from Peltarch to Norwick. She looked at me funny and said that why would want move shrine to Tempus, when one already there. Shrine to Tempus is Maya.

    I never think about that. Is very strange idea, and I think be shrine is too much for one person. I am just Maya, and I think Tempus give vision to me because I do not think so much with head, and instead think with heart.

    Or maybe Tempus is lonely, and knows I will listen.

    _Maya finishes her journal entry, blowing sand across the page to dry the ink. Then she douses the lantern, and the shadows in the room soften and vanish.

    Sleep comes easily to her this night. She dreams of simpler times in the Sisterhood, when life was full of children’s games, making breakfast, and chopping wood.

    Tempus knows that one cannot know war, without also knowing peace._


  • _Maya stands on the hill west of Norwick, the waterfall cascading behind her. Her armor has been polished. Her hair washed, the braids and raven feathers blowing behind her. Beside her, a deep hole has been dug. Stone put in the bottom, a long pole, and stone around packed densely. At the top of the long pole waves a large banner, resplendent with the symbol of Tempus.

    With the cold breeze stinging Maya’s face, she stares north over the Nars. Blue eyes full of hope and purpose appear to be searching, waiting for something she will not speak of._

    Entry 180 – Vision

    I have strong vision many days ago, which Tempus actual leave sign. This happen so little, that I know answer is strong one, and it must be listen to.

    I will not write of vision, or what I have done to answer it. There are too many eyes and and ears around me, of people who might want stop it.

    I only hope what I do is right in his eyes. I hope I can see to end, and that Tempus does not call me to him before is finish. But it feel right. If feel so right that is hard to sleep, and make my blood sing just think about.

    Wait will be hard


  • _The sun beats down in unseasonable warmth across the Narfell landscape. The sky is cloudless. The air uncharacteristically still. On top of one of the cliffs north of Norwick, Maya sits relatively unclothed, eating a large pear.

    She recently bathed, the blood of Norwick’s enemies washed downstream in the cool water. Her hair is unbraided, and spills about in uneven lengths across her shoulders and back. For the first time since her departure from Damara, its gold-brown hue gleams in the late morning sun. She looks around casually, dark blue eyes watching for the glint of steel.

    After several minutes, she turns her attention to the things gathered around her. With casual grace, she stretches out on the grass and opens her journal in front of her._

    Entry 179 – Storm

    Storm of war comes to Narfell, but like war with Eastlanders, I think I miss it. I have vision of great war, travel here, and then not be in war? I do not know why Tempus does things he does, sometimes. But I am not wise like Tempus, so I will wait for him show me.

    Norwick is be attacked from South, and N’Jast already has take Jiyyd. I think first that Tempus send me to fight soldiers of N’Jast, but Norwick is not at war with N’Jast. I come to defend, but problems are with south. I think maybe evil priest Corde is up to no good again.

    Lady Kara fights for N’Jast. She tells me that Peltarch make arrange for assassinate N’Jast king, and N’Jast is very angry, and march on Peltarch. Kara thinks cause is worthy, and Peltarch is corrupt and evil. Maybe is right.

    But I have much concern. Kara and Lyte make promise to each other. They make promise of peace. Kara promises to make oath to Tempus in front of his champion, which she does.

    But Tempus is NOT (underlined several times) happy. He is so angry at Kara, he wants strike her down for make oath, but cannot because words she say are careful pick. Is feeling I get, without words. Why would Kara hide behind words?

    Make oath to Tempus when hide behind words is foolish. For warrior to make Tempus angry is even more foolish. I don’t think Kara sees this. She will doom her army to have Tempus on other side

    Better to make no oath at all.

    (there is a pause here, as if the pen lingers on the page)

    Maybe, just maybe Tempus bring me all way from Damara to have his champion witness Kara oath? Maybe Tempus want reason not to help N’Jast? From what hear, N’Jast army slaughter unarm towns people, try leave Jiyyd. This against everything Tempus teach

    I do not know rules of gods, but this make sense to me. Was long way to travel for witness oath, but if important to Tempus, is important to me.


  • _There are numerous entries that fill the intervening space in Maya’s journal. Its pages worn and stained, it nears the end, awaiting another chapter or drawing to conclusion. There are ramblings and thoughts, dreams and hopes, and quiet circumspection.

    Many of them focus on Yana. In the years that have passed, Yana’s slow growth due to her Elven heritage still puts her in her teen years. But the years behind are much longer, and through schooling in Damara and Maya’s patient tutelage Yana has become the fledgling warrior she was destined to be.

    …but not in the way Maya had envisioned.

    The journal tells of travel. It tells of a young woman’s first journey, of bandits, trial and hardship. It tells of a mother’s love for her adopted daughter, of hope, disappointment, and pride.

    Towards the end, much of the journal speaks of visions.

    Maya’s visions from Tempus speak of battle, of old friends fighting and dying for causes just and unjust, amidst hope and futility. The visions show her old home with Adam in flames, of families dying, and people fleeing for their lives.

    The visions crowd the twilight between waking and sleep, until Maya heeds them, and ventures home once more. With the embrace of her daughter lingering in her heart, Maya ventures once again to Narfell._

    Entry 178 – Battle Calls

    Is hard to believe I stand in Peltarch again. It seem like three lifetime ago, that I was stand in commons, and bow trembling to Tempus who choose me for be his champion.

    From wall where I sit and write this, I see smoke rise from south. I wonder to self who fights this war and why.

    But not matter. Is war. I make oath to Dwin that I defend Norwick. I cannot be in Damara and keep oath, so here I am. Soon I will be home again, and axe will drip with blood of Norwick’s enemies.

    …as should be.


  • _Yana pressed forward and swung the practice warhammer clumsily at Maya, who blocked it with her shield. Maya returned the swing slowly, allowing Yana to block it as well. This continued until the sounds of wood against wood became rhythmic, echoing through Norwick.

    Maya pursed her lips some, watching Yana’s stance. “You still keep shield too low. Am much taller, and have long arm. Need keep shield higher so not get hit”. Maya raised her shield higher, mimicking what Yana should do.

    “I’m keeping my shield high!”, Yana retorted, swinging again a more forcefully. This time, Maya deliberately aimed over Yana’s shield and swung more quickly. The wooden practice weapon thwacked Yana’s leather shoulder plate with enough force, that she cried out and backed away.

    “Dammit! What are you trying to do, break my arm?”, Yana rubbed it angrily.

    Maya shrugged and grinned slightly, “Maybe should keep shield higher, no? Sometime, painful lesson is best one. Sore shoulder be good for remember.”

    Yana narrowed her eyes and grumbled under her breath, but when she approached Maya, her shield was held a little higher._

    Entry 102 – Change and Preparation

    I write this while sit here in Mermaid. Is clear sunny morning, and can see people on docks work on ship from second floor window of room. From here I could see Nathen walk all way to ship for travel for study. By time he return from study, Yana and I will no longer be in Narfell, and I may never see again.

    Stomach ache when I think about I just finish make pleasures with Nathen maybe for last time.

    I have been have many vision now, of big caravan and city. So many vision I have more new feathers in hair than know what do with, and if not careful will look like raven too. Tempus seems want make sure I take this trip with Yana, but I do not know why. Tempus is simple but powerful god, so vision are simple and powerful too.

    I look at calendar and count month, and see that will be less than one year now I will say good bye to friends I have know for so long.

    Some will be hard. Some I worry for. All will be miss.

    I am excite about new adventure I will have with Yana in distant land, and watch her grow and see world. But am sad too I think.

    Is hard for be sad and happy at same time. Cry is good for both though.


  • ((I hope you don't mind a comment here, and if you do I'll happily delete the post…

    But I just want to say this has been consistantly one of the best reads i've ever seen on this forum. Beautifully written, full of emotion, and completely and utterly captures the character with ever increasingly amazing skill. Thanks for sharing this with all of us))


  • _Kara neatly deflected Maya’s blow with her shield, and launched a series of fast and expertly placed strikes past Maya’s guard. Maya backpedaled and slipped left, away from Kara’s shield in an attempt to use her height and reach advantage, but Kara backed up also, countering the move. Each eyed the other, breathing hard from exhaustion.

    Maya grew frustrated. Kara was simply better with her sword than Maya was with her axe. Against Kara, the only thing Maya had going for her was her size and strength. Maya towered over Kara by more than half a foot, and outweighed her by more than seventy pounds. But Kara had the experience of fighting against many opponents larger than Maya, and was using every trick she knew to defeat her.
    As both stood back eyeing each other, gathering their breath, Maya noticed that despite Kara’s extensive training, her legs were unsteady. She shifted her weight too much to maintain balance, and her breath was not recovering quickly. Kara bit her lip as her breath came out ragged, and blinked back sweat from her eyes.

    Maya wasn’t ready, but it was time. Maya rushed forward, and deliberately landed a forceful blow on Kara’s shield. Kara turned her shield to deflect it, but Maya wasn’t trying to get past it. Kara’s sword slipped by Maya’s guard repeatedly, but Maya continued to pound on Kara’s shield with every ounce of strength she had.

    The effect was telling. Kara raised her shield over her head to deflect the forceful overhand blow, but Maya had arched her back and put every last ounce of strength she could muster into it. When the blow landed, Kara’s legs collapsed. The following blow broke the straps and sent the shield spinning away.

    The duel was over. Kara dropped her sword and raised her hand in submission._

    Entry 101

    I meet Aramuil and large group who come back from graveyard, who say that spirit of Heyokarr demand champion for give something. Many enter duel. Was Albryanna, Maythor, Dietrick, Kara, Rhyndar, and me. I hope not leave out anyone.

    I win.

    I not know how win against Maythor and Kara, but I do. Kara is get tired at end, and I think is only reason I beat her. Maythor am not sure, because armor he wear is very magic and strong.

    In end, I am present with spirit dagger with many runes by speaker for the Heyokarr spirits. She say I will know when to use, but not tell me how.

    That night, I cannot sleep. I lay in bed and begin to cry, for is much happy and sad. Ever since I come to Norwick, Maythor was true champion of Norwick for me. Now I have defeat him, and other challenger, and heart swell with both sad and happy.

    This will be good way for go on First Journey with Yana I think. I receive letter from school in Damara who teach ways of fight with both magic and sword, and they say will accept her as student. I have not told her this though. I hope she will like this. Already she is become own person and do things for self much, and will no longer need me watch over her so much.

    I think of this, and it makes me cry too.

    I write this while wait in Dancing Mermaid. I travel to Peltarch to be with Nathen, who cannot stay in Norwick for long time away from study. I am much silly and buy Norwick clothes for warm summer and show much skin for him, but if get smile from Nathen will be worth gold I pay.


  • _The cobwebs of sleep clung tenaciously, wiped away slowly by the noises of morning activity and the light coming in through the window. As sleep filtered away to forgotten dreams, Maya opened her eyes. Her own hair clouded her vision. Braids, feathers, and loose strands blanketed the feather pillow. Beside her, Nathen watched with curious and smiling eyes.

    “Good morning sleepy head”, Nathen murmured.

    Maya propped herself on her elbows and peered out the window, before plopping her head back down on the pillow, smiling sleepily.

    “Good morning you too”, she said.

    Nathen turned and looked out the window also, curious what Maya was looking at. “It’s late”, he muttered, “We should think about getting out of bed and getting breakfast. Don’t you have to work downstairs?”

    Maya sighed and moved her head onto his shoulder. “Yes, should. But, I could sleep for whole morning.”

    “Come on sleepy head. You’re too big to carry downstairs. Yana will be waiting”

    “Yana is old enough get own breakfast”, Maya mumbled.

    Nathen’s hand moved surreptitiously under the blankets. Suddenly Maya squealed and burst out laughing as Nathen tickled her.

    “Time for breakfast!”, Nathan grinned as Maya giggled helplessly.

    Suddenly Maya grabbed his hand and rolled over on top of him, pinning his arms to his side. Her long legs stretched out on each side of his. Braids, sheaves of hair and feathers fell across his face and shoulders. Maya looked playfully down at him, eyes full of hunger.

    “Maybe have Nathen for breakfast”

    Nathen only managed an “Oh” before Maya’s mouth covered his._

    Entry 100 – Reunion

    Has been much long since I see Nathen. Too long. I am much happy now, but I wonder how long last. I ask what happen to us. How we drift away. Was one time could have been husband I think.

    He does not know either. Sometime, thing like this happen. Now, I am just much happy he is here. He is one of most kind heart I know, and make pleasures with him is much fun and silly.

    Maybe last few day. Maybe few week. He say would like me visit him in Peltarch, but I do not know if will happen. He and I are not of same heart as once was.

    Now I just take each day one at time, and enjoy Nathen while he here. Tomorrow can worry for self..


  • _The air was warm and still, almost stifling for this time of year. The sun was high in the sky, and beat mercilessly on the people of Norwick moving here and there going about their business.

    Thorn sat talking with the little elf woman who seemed permanently camped by the tree south of the inn. Devlin spoke with Albryanna, and suddenly burst out laughing, his voice ringing roughly across the commons. Dwin puttered to the crafting hall, a bag loaded with ore, muttering something under his breath in his native, guttural tongue. A man only known as “Z” held the door for him, his hair wet with perspiration from simply walking across the plains

    Insects buzzed noisily. Two dogs chased either other across the archery range. A couple of crows cawed angrily at some intrusion. Yana laughed in the creek.

    Maya sat on the roof of the Grapevine Inn, languishing in the harsh sun. Her hair was pulled up behind her head so the feathers bunched in a black bouquet, a vain effort to keep as cool as possible. She wore light cloth and little of it, and was vaguely self-conscious of how much skin was showing.

    Ael walked down the road past the inn, and almost got by it before Ael stopped and stared up curiously at Maya. A slow smile spread across his face and he waved. Maya waved back, wondering briefly why he wasn’t sweating. Ael stared long enough to make Maya feel self-conscious, then a bit more, before turning and heading south.

    It was a very quiet day in Norwick, for a pleasant change._

    Entry 99 – Felix

    Yesterday I tell story of Maya axe to people around fire. Dietrick say want look for “sword of legend”, and ask about my axe. Felix who is young priest of Tempus sit beside me. Bagnar stand by fire, and others sit beside fire too.

    After I tell story of axe, Felix seem very disappoint. He complain much of what he has, and I was begin feel bad for tell story. He show me his hammer, which is good made, but not like axe I have. After we talk, I take Felix to Sisterhood for maybe find spare hammer. Bagnar tag along too.

    To make long journal entry short, I not find hammer in Sisterhood. We travel to Peltarch, and I show him hammer in shop next to Temple of Tyr. I tell him is good goal for himself. He work hard and earn, but all Felix do is complain.

    He complain about not be good warrior. He say is too much gold, and will never get.

    Wise person tell me once that “Complain is already admit defeat”. Are not exact words, but meaning is clear.

    I try tell him that life make walls not to stop from do, but to see how much want something. But he still complain, and I am very frustrate with.

    Not everyone can be good warrior. I remember long time ago, I wish to be Cerulean Knight, but I have no magic, so cannot. Felix must find place in life. Tempus does not teach must be good warrior. Tempus instead teach fight brave. Fight brave is not always with sword. As say many time before, some battle take place in heart.

    He say in shop that he not dream of spend so many gold on armor and weapon, but would instead build temple to Tempus. Maybe, that is destiny for him. Not to be great warrior, but to teach of Tempus, and build temple so other warrior come, and Tempus be little closer to this land.

    But I am worry that he will not try. Is afraid to try, and Tempus not like coward.


  • _Little Yana, not so little now, trudged up the hill laboriously, one slow step at a time. On her back across both shoulders was a long pole. On each end of the pole was a fair sized bucket of rocks.

    As she neared the top, each step became a struggle. Her slender legs, now not quite so slender, strained with corded muscle. Sweat plastered the hair to her face. Eyes and mouth scrunched in determination.

    Her legs quivered the last few steps. She struggled briefly with balance, then pushed forward one more step.

    Maya stood at the top and knelt, ready to grab her in case she lost her balance. “You can do this Yana, just two more step. Just two!”

    Yana’s lips began to quiver, but she grunted and took another step. Her right foot slipped a few inches, but she kept her balance and struggled with the final step. The next step took her to the top, and as Maya took the pole from her back, Yana sat down hard on her hands and knees.

    “You do this! You make to top!”, Maya smiled encouragingly.

    Yana looked up breathing raggedly, “I’m not going to be able to walk tomorrow”, she said, not without some resentment.

    “Is OK”, Maya smiled. You have no chores for next two days.

    Yana blinked with surprise, “I don’t?”

    “No, I do for you. Your job is rest, and eat. Cannot make strong without rest and eat. Too many time I see person be train to death. Make strong need rest. Make strong need good food”

    Maya went back on top of the hill and pulled a picnic basket from behind a rock. She brought it over with a smile and sat it down in front of Yana, who at once smelled Mama’s delicious cooking.

    “Here, you take this”, Maya said as she pulled out a mug and filled it with apple juice. “Juice is good for give wind and strength back. Then you eat as much as want. Is plenty egg, fish and bird here. This will make go up hill with rocks next time more easy”

    Yana didn’t respond, simply nodding as her mouth was already stuffed with poultry. Maya chuckled a bit, and stared out across the plains as the breeze ruffled the feathers in her hair._

    Entry 98 – Training

    Training for Yana begin for First Journey this month. I have always try teach her, but this different. I work her very hard for make her strong and good balance, and chores she have I do most of instead. Is her job now is become warrior she need to be for survive.

    I ask her of this, if this is what she want. She seem very determine to do this, to become warrior like me, but I hope she not be disappoint. She is strong and quick for age, and I can make her more strong and more quick, but will be different than me. She must understand she must seek warrior inside of Yana, and not warrior inside of Maya.


  • _Maya stood in front of the mirror, fixing the last of the feathers in her hair. Her armor was polished, and cloak had been recently cleaned. Yana sat on the edge of the bed, watching Maya curiously.

    “Where are you going?”, Yana asked, kicking her feet absently.

    “I am going see Dwin”, Maya replied, looking at herself hard in the mirror.

    “You’re getting all dressed up to see Dwin?”

    Maya closed her eyes for a moment, before turning away from the mirror to look down at Yana. “I get clean and in good uniform to honor him. He is leader of Norwick, and deserve this much”

    “But you’ve talked to Dwin a hundred times, and I never see you get all dressed up like this”. Suddenly Yana’s eyes went wide, and she made a face, “Are you sweet on him?”

    Maya laughed reflexively, making Yana giggle too, “No no Yana, is nothing like that. Is….”, Maya sighed, “Last time I dress as Militia”.

    Yana’s eyes went wider, “You’re leaving the militia? Why!?”

    Maya went over and sat down beside Yana on the bed. She stared at the floor for a moment, before turning to look at Yana.

    “Is for many reason. First is, I do not need red cloak for defend Norwick. I defend Norwick many times without be militia. Second is I cannot be everywhere. I cannot work inn, patrol, and read report and be good mother to you. You are most important to me. Yes, people in Norwick are important too, but you are child I care for.”

    Maya paused before continuing.

    “Your time for First Journey will be come sooner than think. We speak some of how your body change, no?”

    Yana just nodded, looking up.

    “In few year, you will grow more than any other time in life. You will get tall and strong. You will have to make many choice. I want be there help you make choice. I will not choose for you, but I want be there for show you path so can choose wise. When this time comes, we will take long journey together. I will show you what I can, so that you can see world for self, and make good choice in life.”

    Yana looked up and asked timidly, “Were you on First Journey when your father and grandfather were killed?”

    “Yes”, Maya nodded, doing her best keep a reassuring tone, “But this will not happen to you, if I have say about”

    There was a long pause, as Yana and Maya just looked at each other. Yana looked away and around the room, before settling her eyes on Maya’s gauntlets, the symbol of Tempus indelible and bright upon them.

    “Devlin’s going to be sad”, Yana said quietly. “He loves you”

    “I know”, is what all Maya could reply._

    Entry 97 – Service

    Today I do something much hard, and speak to Dwin of leave militia. I get all dress up to honor his be leader of Norwick. Is least I can do.

    I was expect he be much angry. But he was not. He was not happy, but seem understand reasons. All he ask was that I be there for help defend Norwick, and of course I say yes. Will come time soon though that I will go on First Journey with Yana, and then inn will have to be run by rest of Sisterhood, and Norwick will be without me for while. But this is still few years away.

    I already speak to Devlin about leave militia. He was not happy, but not protest either. But see him sad like he was with me, broke my heart. I think maybe if still around I will ask him come on First Journey with Yana and me. Yana likes him much, and would be good influence.

    In mean time I will continue teach Yana matters of heart, and how to fight for what she believe. Now she also have lesson from Aramuil, so is very busy little girl, learn both fight and magic.

    Now I will have time for teach her proper.

    I cannot help be proud of her. She is not of my blood, but she is of my heart. This is better I think.

    Many year ago I was very angry for Tempus take life from me, so I cannot have child. But now I see what his plan was, so long ago, and I wonder why I ever doubt him.