3. Maya's Second Journal

Maya's Second Journal


  • _Grunts and cries, along with the rhythmic thumps and thwacks of a weapon on a practice post reverberated from the hill behind the Grapevine Inn. Maya braced herself and lunged, the shield impacting the post, before she disengaged and whirled, the axe biting a chunk from the reverse side of it.

    This dance continued throughout the day. Maya’s linens were soaked with perspiration, her body streaked with dust, mud and sweat from the many slips and falls. Finally, the heavy post split.

    Maya stood there breathing heavily, staring at the post. Slowly, a smile creased her face, followed by a look of triumph. Then with a mischievous glance and twinkle in her eye, Maya stripped naked, and leapt into the creek with a whoop._

    Entry 330 – Stamina

    I get new ink from general store, but all have was blue ink make from berries in Rawlins. Now journal looks silly with this page be different color. I suppose have to do.

    Each day goes by, strength and endurance comes back quick. I drink only water like Daisy say, to make body pure. I go swim a lot, which I like much. I think guards like this too, because I notice they move post few feet so can watch.

    Heart begins to sing in my chest. I begin think maybe whip was blessing. People not know what have, until lose it.

    Soon, Tempus willing, I be Maya again.


  • _Maya’s hair frizzes with heat and humidity, and is slicked at the top from sweat. The braids lay loose, unmaintained and in disarray. The clothes Maya wears are old linen, and are stained from perspiration, mud, and creek water.

    Maya climbs

    The shoulder yoke weighs heavily across her back, the bucket on each side filled with stones instead of water. Each day she has added more stones. Up the hill for strength, down again for balance.

    Maya climbs

    One foot in front of the other, each step requiring significant effort. Muscles burn as she climbs up the hill. It was the training she used for Yana. Now she in turn would use this for herself to recover what she had lost

    Maya stops

    With a final cry Maya reaches the summit, and pushes the yoke off her shoulders where the buckets crash noisily on the ground. She collapses on the hill next to a basket of honeyed chicken, placed there earlier this morning prior to her training. She takes the jug water next to it, pours half of it over her head, and drinks the rest._

    Entry 329 – Strength

    Last few days I begin feel better. I wake up, headache is still there, but have more energy. I am much more hungry now too. Soon, I will use axe and shield on training post. Armor is last. Strength is return quick, but stamina does not.

    I speak to Albryanna other day about militia, and ask how is. She says has plenty of people, and is good. Is pity, because if need people, was think of join again. Now, am not sure what do.

    I was think maybe make announce that when better, will take offer for who want me to fight for them. Person who pay most gold and magic get Champion of Tempus. Problem is what happen if hire by rich evil wizard with army of undead?

    Maybe should ju…..

    Maya dips her pen into the bottle, then in frustration turns it upside down and shakes it. “Hmph, should have buy more ink when in Peltarch”, see says, before closing the journal.


  • _Despite being tied and bound in back, Maya’s long braids bounce around rhythmically as she runs. Long muscled legs eat up the ground beneath her until finally, out of exhaustion, she stumbles.

    With a hoarse cry Maya skids and hits the dirt, stones scraping her legs, sides, and arms. She lays there for a moment, the sweat dripping onto the hard packed earth, before getting up again.

    With a look of fierce determination, Maya continues running_

    Entry 328 – Recovery

    It is hard describe shame I feel now. I was possess by Drow whip, and do things I wish could undo. I attack friends. I hurt man in bathhouse. I threaten to kill people who were not warrior.

    I remember all things I say, but is like on other side of water in pond. I can see it, but not clear. I have headache all of time, and is hard not to use harsh words for people who try to help me so much.

    I am so weak from recover, that cannot even swing axe, but it get little better each day. Today I go run like used to. I fall down much, and leg is on fire where hits road too many times, but sometimes pain is good for remind be alive.

    I wish had never pick up stupid thing, but is done, and now must pay for in pain and honor. Am just glad have good friends look out for me. Is good thing was not axe, or friends would have die try to take away from me. That shame I could not bear. Whip bad enough.

    Now, must decide what to do. So much rest has give me much time to think.

    Shrine is still not finish. Mason is still not done with statue. Life here in Nars not complete until this is done.

    I have no coin. Have not have time for adventure. Little coin I get was from kill hobgoblin with whip, and now this coin feels dirty.

    I need work. I need coin. I need adventure.

    I need live again.

    _Maya puts down the pen and leans back in front of the fire.

    “….after rest”, she finishes, and falls asleep within moments, the journal on her lap._


  • _The bathhouse was steamy, the air thick and moist. People wandered in and out of the room, dressed in various silks and finery. Maya lay unclothed and stretched out on her stomach, her hair still braided, her head off to the side wearing a relaxed smile. One of the attendants hovered over her, his strong hands kneading one of Maya’s muscled thighs. His hands worked methodically and expertly down her legs, and Maya sank contentedly deeper into the cushions.

    The attendant spoke up, his voice careful and deferent, “Miss, is Erik going to be OK? He looked….hurt”

    Maya furrowed her brow a bit, the muscles in her shoulders tensing, “I think rib is maybe broke. I give him healing drink, and will be fine now I think. I … I am much sorry”.

    The attendant didn’t reply and continued to knead, working up her legs to her lower back, thumbs pressing deeply. Maya winced a bit, but said nothing.

    In the corner of the room, Maya’s whip lay stretched out. It hissed contentedly in the moist heat._

    Entry 327 – Excess

    Yana always hated when I go to bath house. She knew why I go here, and would bother her. She thinks I should have man in house, but truth is I have met no one who both touches heart and wish to keep bed warm at night.

    Make pleasures this time was angry. I do not know why, and I feel bad afterwards. People here are nice to me when come, and I try pay well but have almost no coin. Man I hire seem to understand, and did not say anything after done.

    Since battle with Drow, my heart has been full of fire. It makes my heart ache for battle again. This is probable good thing, because purse is empty, and spoils of war is good for make full again.


  • _The guard walking up to Maya looked unsure of himself. He paused about ten feet from her behind the inn.

    “Miss, could you please put some clothes on? People are pointing”

    Maya turned, half stumbling as she shucked her leather breaches. The only thing that made pretention of covering her were great sheaves of hair that unbraided, went far past her shoulders. She gave the guard both a bemused and irritated look.

    “Am going swimming. Swim in leather is not very comfortable. Have tried”

    “Miss, there is a party going on in the inn. Merchants are just arriving from the north. First impressions are um….important”

    Maya just shrugged, “Then I hope without clothes, I make good impression”. At that Maya turned and leapt, the following splash of icy water not quite reaching the guard. Maya shrieked with both surprise and delight.

    “Water is much cold!”, she squealed. Then with a mischievous grin she turned to the guard, “If want to arrest, must come in and get!”, and dove under the water._

    Entry 327 – Exuberance

    This word I put on top of entry is “Exuberance”. It means to be full of life about something. Today, I do not know what this something is. All I know is I have been much full of it lately.

    Maybe is whip.

    I find whip full of runes after fight many Drow. When I pick up, it glow bright red, and then red go through me and stop. This whip is very strong. I can cut board with it, and when it hits, it stings so much people are stun and cannot move. Also, if wizard casts spell at me, sometimes I can snap whip at them, and spell will go away before do anything.

    I sometimes think has more magic than my axe. I have even used in Norwick games, and is much surprise for everyone.

    But sometimes I wonder about. At night, I hear noise from where I leave it. Some mornings, I find it wrap around leg, or next to me, like animal try to keep warm. But it does not hurt me, and seem friendly, so I do not mind. Is certainly not evil.

    Maybe though, it just remind me of better time in life, when was with Sisterhood with everyone. I used to have great collection of whip then, and would practice in back. Maybe is not magic in whip which bring “Exuberance”, but magic of memory and heart.


  • _Maya stands on the hill by the archery range, long hair, braids, feathers and trinkets rustling in the breeze. Quietly she watches Benji and Yana at the foot of the gate in quiet conversation.

    She can’t hear what they are saying, but can tell from their body language the gist of what’s being said. Later, it is confirmed by the Gnomish cry of frustration as Yana heads to the boat.

    Maya closes her eyes and shakes her head, before walking slowly to the inn._

    Entry 326 – Blind

    People call me foolish many times. I give into things easy, and enjoy what life offer. I cannot speak the common tongue without trip over words, and sometimes say things that are funny when not mean to.

    Yet, sometimes I think I am only one that can see what other cannot.

    Benji cares for Yana. I could see this over years. Even when Yana was little, was connection to their hearts I can see. Then, it was easy for be together, for Yana was child, and Benji was grown up.

    But now are both grown up, and Yana cannot see heart in front of her. She is blind to it, because comes in package very small. She wishes for strong body and fair of face, even if heart is not good, or cannot have.

    She should try to walk in my boots sometime. All men, except maybe Talgris are smaller. Adam only come to my shoulder. Nathen the same. But their hearts were good, and touched mine in ways hard for write in journal.

    She must learn to open eyes, or she will spend years alone and unhappy


  • _“Maya, I need the stone moved back about this far”, the mason said, holding his hands apart.

    Maya put her back against the stone and braced, her leather boots digging into the ground. Slowly she pushed, her face turning red with the effort. Muscled legs strained under the weight, and Maya’s feet fought for purchase, but slowly the stone moved into position.

    “Stop!”, shouted the mason, and Maya collapsed into a heap

    He chuckled, “I think that’s all we can do for now. That stone should hold the statue in place. We’ll just need to wait until it’s finished before we can do any more.”

    Maya looked up, her face returning to its normal color, “What can do in mean time?”

    The mason shrugged, “Whatever you want m’dear. Can’t do any more until the statue is finished. Take a break. Go visit your daughter. Get drunk”, he chuckled.

    Maya made a face as the mason picked up his tools.

    “Maybe all three”, she said._

    Entry 325 – Time off

    Now, I have nothing to do. Is first morning I wake up in long time I do not have to go to shrine. I must wait for statue to be build. Then will finish, and have bless and ceremony.

    Then…

    Then I do not know.

    Yana tries to play little matchmaker. I hate when she do this. I know heart is in right place, and she love me and not wishes me to be lonely, but she put ideas in peoples head. People and heart need to decide for self.

    This time was Jerrick.

    Yana makes hints, and I know Yana speak to him. But I can see his heart is not sure, and he look embarrassed. Is cute but not. Man who wins my heart cannot hide behind own. I always want big dog for pet, but not man.

    Maybe fun for night or two though.

    Adam seduce me with his words. Nathen seduce me with his heart. Talgris seduce me with battle. Mama at Grapevine say woman can seduce man with cookies. “Get naked, bring food, and all men are happy”, Mama says with twinkle in eye

    I laugh at this, but is probable true.


  • _Maya sat on the archery tower, south of Norwick’s gate. Her feet dangled over the edge, her gloved hands resting on the wooden beams behind her. She looked up, squinting into the dim light.

    The skies were overcast, thick with low grey clouds. Birds flew away from the coming storm. Maya watched them move together as one, and suddenly felt alone.

    She had lost count of the number of years since Adam had passed away. There were a series of lovers and single night embraces that warmed her bed since then, but few that had filled her heart like Adam.

    She often wondered at length if any others would.

    The wind picked up, bringing the first drops of rain with it. With a sigh, Maya got up and headed to the inn._

    Entry 324 – Left behind

    There are time I watch world, and have feeling it pass by without me. I am here, but am not. Is much hard to explain.

    Was time when I could travel this land, and see people I know. I would run into them, and we would laugh and have drink. Sometime, would have great adventure, then laugh and have drink after.

    I miss these times.

    Now I travel this land, I meet people and wave. Both keep walking. Most I do not know.

    What happen? Where did all people I know go?

    I have been think on this much when work on shrine. When work on shrine, is little to do but move stone and think. Answer I find is that others probable feel same, and go look elsewhere for new friends. I did this too, but always come back.

    I begin to ask why.


  • _Exhausted, Maya stood, resting her elbows on a partially constructed pillar. Thick furs rustled in the cold breeze, and a few wisps of snow dropped lazily down to the ground from a cold, grey sky. Behind her, the mason was slowly shaping a cylinder of stone to be used as part of another pillar.

    There was a grunt beside her, as Hammerhand dropped a finished stone into place. He stood and arched his back, and adjusted his leather coat.

    He watched Maya for awhile before asking, “What will you do after this is done? Where will you go?”

    Maya didn’t shift her gaze, but instead let it rest on the area east of the tower. She closed her eyes, reliving pieces of the battle in her thoughts.

    Slowly she shrugged, “I do not know. Peltarch is not for me. Its laws and politic is evil. They make right because is law, and not make law because is right. But have said this before, and many know how I feel of this.”

    She turned her head, so that she was looking at Hammerhand, with her cheek resting on clenched hands

    “Oscura smells of evil too, and I will not live in place for long where there is no sky. Speak of which, Alexander still owes me. I think I need to pay him visit. Is much obvious he not take me serious”

    “Only place leaves in this land is Norwick. Maybe there, or maybe back to Damara. I do not know”

    Maya stared back at the field of battle. The cold wind blew at her back, kicking up a fallen leaves and debris. Braids fluttered in her face, black feathers briefly obscuring her vision._

    Entry 315 – Debt

    Works is come along for shrine, but coin becomes low. Soon, I will have no more gold to pay mason, and work will stop.

    I cannot let this happen.

    Alexander owes me. City of Oscura owes me. It has been many years. Was only six guard, but if Oscura does not pay, then they should give guard back. I tell Alexander that gold was last choice, but maybe now with shrine, maybe it becomes first choice.

    Am not blooded, so maybe he has no honor and feel bargain is not worth keep. If he does not pay soon, then I will challenge his honor and settle with his blood.


  • _The banners of Tempus, The Burning Tree, and royal crest of Timbertown whipped in the strong wind. The banners were tattered, but stood proudly on the hill north of the valley. Beside the banner stood Sar-Kraig, champion of the The Burning Tree Tribe, and Maya, champion of Tempus. They stood quietly in the harsh wind, and surveyed the carnage below.

    The hosts of Garagos lay dead upon the field. The final victory however, had not been cheap. Countless warriors of Impiltur, various orcish tribes, and even the Great Dale lay amongst the fallen.

    Maya closed her eyes for a moment before Sar-Kraig turned to her.

    “Finally, victory is ours”, the Orc rumbled. “The strong survive. But I fear I will have two few warriors to take back, and I wonder if Tempus is truly pleased”

    Maya was quiet for a moment, before looking up at Sar-Kraig. Here was one warrior truly better than she. Taller, stronger, faster, with a covenant of Tempus on his side, and experience in his great blade, Sar-Kraig was a legend in these parts, though age was beginning to take its toll. Maya knew that he had wanted to die in this great battle, but despite his recklessness, it simply wasn’t meant to be.

    “Tempus is pleased”, Maya said quietly. “For hosts of Garagos, there be no warriors to come home”

    Sar-Kraig nodded, then with hesitation, spoke again. “Have you reconsidered my offer? I would make you third wife, and raise you above others. There would be much envy, but I do not think they would argue much”, he smirked, showing aging tusks.

    Maya laughed, “Answer is still no. I do not feel for you in this way”

    Sar-Kraig snorted, “What do feelings have to do with this, we…”

    “I have no gift of life Sar-Kraig, and would give you no sons. Gift of life was taken from me, when young”

    Sar-Kraig paused, and stood silent for a very long time. “It is a pity Maya”

    Maya look up curiously. “Maybe”, she said.

    “Not maybe. Our children would have made the world tremble”

    They didn’t speak after that. The aftermath of the horrors of war settled on valley below them, as large birds descended upon the fallen. People picked through the dead, looting, and provided mercy strokes for those who would otherwise suffer.

    After a several year campaign, it had finally come to an end. Maya had expected joy and tribulation, and had visions of a grand celebration. But this time, victory had come at too high a price. Neither side had yielded, and so few remained to go home to their families.

    In this great victory, Maya felt defeat._

    Entry 289 – Return

    Night after great battle, I had vision most strange. Was forge hammer, wield by strong hand. On anvil was symbol of Tempus. Symbol was hot, and hammer keep strike it to mold symbol to shape, but symbol keep breaking. Outside window of smithy, was land of Narfell, as if seen from great height.

    I do not know what this means yet, but after campaign and war of so many years maybe is time I come back to Narfell to visit Yana and others.

    I am tired of war though, and ask and pray to Tempus to keep me out of war for while, and give me peace. Body has healed after war, but spirit has not.


  • _You will not die of old age. You will die in battle, as is proper, when your time comes.

    • Celestial of Tempus_

    Entry 212 – Fallen Heart

    I have spent almost whole year train six men of Oscura, for Justicar. Of these six men, five will follow Tempus. Other follows Tymora, and I find difficult to find fault with, because was god Adam follow.

    All six will be good warriors, strong and sure. At first, a few did not think I could teach them. My heart and my spirit are old, but my body is still young, stuck at twenty-three summers by Tempus. They only saw outside, and not the inside or way I carry self. They did not respect teacher. Was first very hard lesson they learn

    One of them name of Kyle is very clever. I think will be good second in command some day. Sten is bigger, stronger, and more sure of self, and other just follow him because is natural leader.

    One called Bruner is slow. Is not special warrior, but has good heart and patience. Megan was only woman of bunch. Was not special warrior either, but very eager to learn. She has something to prove to self maybe. Am not sure.

    Mason is smallest person of group, but is mean as snake, and tough like badger. Of all warriors, I think someday he will shine though his heart is not good. He takes Tempus much to heart though. I hope Tempus shows him favor, because he prays much to him.

    Vindolar is worshipper of Tymora. I teach him ways of Tempus, and he understands these teachings, but still does not pray to him. I can make a person fight, but I cannot change their heart.

    I have sent message to Justicar, that training is complete.

    Now, I must turn attention to Corwin.

    Corwin is Drelan Ashire’s son. I will not say why he is here, even in journal, but I make promise to Drelan that I will take care of him, protect, and teach him how to fight. I hope I can give enough honor to task as should.

    I long for battle, and Tempus still denies me this. Although he tells me he is proud of me, I am punished for fall in battle. I am not permitted even to reclaim honor.

    I watch world go by. I watch new warriors come. I watch them compete in fights. I listen to their tales of things they do, adventures they have, and each day it tears at my heart.

    Was one time, that when there was trouble, my name would be on other warriors lips. They would ask if Maya could come and help them fight the evils out in world, and I would shout Tempus’ name in battle, and people would see me as his champion.

    Now, I watch new generation of warriors come and go, and name of Maya is forgotten, or only known as woman who tends to Grapevine Inn.

    I ask Tempus why he would let his champion’s name die this way, but there are no answers. He just tells me I must teach, so I obey. Is all I can do. I am for Tempus. Is my life now, but I do not understand, and it hurts.


  • _It was the smell that brought the memories back. The memories of standing watch, of training with Uthger, of listening to political banter in the commons…It all came flooding back in a few short moments. Like so many places, Peltarch had its own unique odor. It was a mixture of open water, stone, and people pressed together.

    Maya sat in the commons for awhile taking this all in. A commoner eyed her curiously, openly staring at the woman who obviously didn’t belong. Maya paid little attention, taking out her worn and weather beaten journal from its pocket in her pack._

    Entry 206 – The Sails

    Is funny. People keep come to me and tell me should do something about Yana because she spend time with Sails. Tell me I should speak to her about their evil, and tell her to spend time with other people.

    Sails are not evil. Sails are greedy. I think is just nature of merchant to be greedy.

    Also, I have no business tell Yana who should spend time with. She is grown woman. I know her, and trust heart to do right thing.

    I come to Peltarch to give word to City Hall of Yana’s heart. She says she wishes to be guard to protect people and help them. Is good thing I think, and will be good experience for her. So I come here to speak, and visit too.

    We have nice dinner at Mermaid, and I eat so much I think will burst. While visit I speak to her of Sails, and what people tell me. People tell her same thing she says. Some say she will be judge by people she spend time with.

    She does not like the goddess the Sails pray to, and stays away from their priests. She tells me some of one name Luke who prays to Tymora, Hawk who is nice to her, Jay who great warrior who looks for place in world and John, who is friendly scoundrel.

    Some of these people I meet, and know. Most are not bad people. They do not trade in slaves. They do not sacrifice people. They do not raise army of undead. Many people I call friends are not knights or priests to good gods. Some have done many things not nice.

    I know true evil when I see it. Few of Sails are evil. Most are not. I have had good laugh with many, and drink with some. Most are just people who want coin very much.

    Many people I know are just like that, and want coin, magic, or power very much. They just hide it behind words and deeds. Sails do not hide it. I respect people who do not hide behind heart, even if not agree with.


  • _Yana held up the thick, heavy cloak to Maya. Maya looked at it quizzically, turning it over in her hands. “What is?”

    “It’s a gift for you from Nicahh”, Yana replied, “She said it was once a blanket, and that she had to fold it up double to make a cloak. She said it might make you happy.”

    Maya held it up to her face and closed her eyes, taking in the aroma. Then with a sad frown she handed it back to Yana.

    “Is no longer what was”, Maya replied sadly, handing it back to Yana.

    “Um…what was it?”

    Maya look at it, folded up in Yana’s arms, “It was blanket Adam and I have on our bed.”

    “oh…”, Yana trailed off. “But don’t…?”

    “No”, Maya interrupted, a distant and sad expression on her face. “Is part of life that is no longer part of me. I give to Nicahh. She should keep”.

    With a somewhat distant expression, Maya turned and walked away. Yana stood there for awhile holding the cloak, watching her as she turned and walked up the stairs in the inn._

    Entry 205 – Teaching

    I wish people would stop try cheer me up, like if something wrong. Sometimes memory bring back that I do not wish bring back, or part of heart has pain that I spend many year put away.

    People say I do not adventure any more. People say I do not fight in games any more. People say many things, but they do not know me.

    I do not adventure because my place is here, in Norwick, for teach young warrior and children. I cannot be good teacher and run around forest and slay evil. I do not fight in games because games are for young warrior who wish prove self. I have nothing more prove, and do not wish make young warrior discourage. Teacher is for give heart, not take heart and dash to pieces.

    Yana thinks fire is gone because of this. But is just quiet time in life. Is what Tempus wish me to do. Is reason I think he did not take me after I fall to demon.

    Is such great joy in life to see student sudden succeed, where he fail so often. When child looks to me, and for first time I do not hit him with simple blows because he block all with shield, I see heart swell in his eyes. He knows do something right, and I make sure tell that I am much proud too. So many mother and father I see in Norwick are quick tell when do wrong, but not quick tell when do right. How much they miss in eyes of child!

    But…

    I do miss people much. I miss all in my life that have adventure, drink until get silly, sometimes make pleasures with. Was nice to see Nicahh and Ael again, and hope they are much happy.

    Maybe I just need make cookies. Is hard miss people when make enough cookies for share.


  • _Maya walked into the inn, dressed in full armor, the fur trimmings making her look bigger than she already was. Yana sat at a nearby table sipping a small cup of juice, and looked up nervously. With a smile, Maya sat down and leaned forward, putting her hands on top of Yana’s.

    “What is you wish to speak of?”

    Yana started to speak, then stopped, and started again. “Mom, I’m moving to Peltarch”.

    Maya tilted her head, “Moving to Peltarch make you nervous?”

    Yana blinked for a moment, caught off guard. “No Mom, I just thought…”

    “…thought I would be angry maybe?”, Maya smiled.

    “Well….yes”

    Maya chuckled a bit, appearing rather amused, “Why would be angry? You are grown now. Is not like you are in Damara, so far away. I can handle Gnoll with ease. I give Eastlander magic boots, and now to not have to pay toll any more. I can visit any time want. I see you every tournament too! I was very proud way you handle Aghila with fight unarmed. You even give Maythor bloody nose. Most just make Maythor knuckle bleed after have his fist hit skull too many times”

    “You watch my tournaments?” Yana said with surprise.

    Maya squeezed Yana’s hands a little, “Yes Yana, every one”_

    Entry 204 – Yana Moves

    I have many student now, both child and adult. I teach them way I fight, and give pointer to some who have much experience. Is good life I have here now. Teaching others to fight makes Tempus please. I hope that someday, maybe long time from now, that being train by Maya, Champion of Tempus fills heart with pride, and gives fear to enemies.

    Maybe is selfish of me for want this. But it pleases Tempus much. I have good relations with people in militia, though I do not see so much as would like. Between work at inn and teach, I have much for do.

    Now, is time for Yana to leave again.

    I do have some sadness in heart that she moves to Peltarch, but am so proud of her that chest gets bigger each time I see her. I have make her strong and quick, and now she uses this to fight in ways I could never teach. When she knocked Aghila down with kick, man who has much experience in ways of fight, I shout so loud from watch in window that two customer spill drink.

    Not matter, because I buy drink for everyone after that. Even when Maythor beat her, I was proud that she not give up when face great warrior like him.

    I hope she finds what look for in Peltarch. I just hope she stay away from politic. Is bad for heart, and much evil.


  • _Yana sat by the roaring fire in the sitting room of the Grapevine Inn. She stared into it mournfully, head in hands. It was quite awhile before she noticed Maya had sat down in the chair beside her. She looked over at Maya, then back at the fire.

    After several long moments, Yana turned and asked, “Mom, how come you don’t ask me what’s wrong?”

    Maya looked over and shrugged, “You are grown now. If want to tell me what is in heart you will. I will be here for listen.”

    Several more long moments passed while Yana stared at the fire before she spoke, “Mom, how come someone who seems so nice pray to a god who is evil?”

    Maya put her finger to her lip, and furrowed her brow in thought, “Maybe people like this seem nice because want something from you. Who is this person?”

    “One of the Sails”, Yana responded hesitantly.

    Maya nodded, “I have thought much about this, because I have friends in the Sails. Drelan I respect very much. Is good warrior, and takes care of his people like leader should, or seem to.”

    “Is because I think, they are merchant”, Maya continued. “Merchant is not evil. Merchant is not good. Merchant is simply for self and gold. Sails are for self and gold. They pray to this evil god of sea because they fear her, and know that if they do not pray to her, they will not get their gold. Make sense, no?”

    Yana looked over with some small surprise at Maya, “Um, yes it does”

    Yana went back to staring at the fire for awhile before speaking again, “Mom, what about a priest?”

    Maya shrugged, “If is priest of good standing, then I think his heart is probable full of darkness. If not, I think maybe he fears the evil god of the sea very much. So much that he makes a pact with her, so she will not drown him. Maybe he almost drown once, and has much fear of it.”

    Yana thought on this for a moment, then looked over at Maya in consternation, “Mom, how did you know it was a guy? I never said that.”

    Maya smiled a bit, with a hint of smugness, “Is because I know your heart Yana. You would not be down here in chair stare at fire if was not.”

    Yana’s alabaster skin turned a faint shade a pink before staring back at the fire. Nothing more was said between them that night._

    Entry 191 – Yana’s heart

    People think I am stupid, because I learn slow. Maybe I do, but have been here for more than whole life time. I have had much time for think on things. Maybe if smarter and this old, I would be leader of Norwick now, or Senator in Peltarch. But have seen enough that even if learn slow, that I know much.

    People are much surprise when I see their heart, because they see me as woman who looks young, does not speak well, and very strong. So they do not see Maya, they just see foolish warrior.

    Even Yana sometimes.

    She forgets that I have live with her for so long, that I see her heart in her eyes, her face and way she carries self. Maybe all children do this, I do not know. I know that Yana heart always drawn to people who do things very well, and can provide. I have feeling man she begin to like have much coin, spend it on her, and fights very well.

    Perhaps this is way she imagine father would be. Wise person once tell me that men marry woman like mother, and woman marry man like father. Yana have no father, so father is in her heart only.

    I am sorry she did not know Adam. He would have been good father to her I think, and loved her very much.

    But is her life now. I can only give words of my heart, and tell myself over and over that if he hurt her, why I should not kill him.


  • _Yana was a child of different worlds. Her body was mostly elven, but filled out in human ways. She was thicker of limb than most elves, with a full mouth and eyes that bespoke of her human ancestry. The rest of her, from her long, pointed ears, straight platinum colored hair, and natural grace were all elvish.

    She had grown up in the Sisterhood, her youth stretched out into twice their normal years by her mixed heritage. Many had taken care of her, but it was Maya that had finally taken charge of her upbringing, and seen to it that one day she would learn to fight for what she believed.

    Yana had grown to womanhood under Maya’s care in the little town of Norwick. She was obviously quick, but deceptively strong. She had spent the many years of Yana’s youth training her, building her body with exercise and practice. Corded muscle propelled Yana’s body with practiced ease.

    Now, Yana’s graceful form moved with fluid strength, dancing and spinning on the training grounds behind the Grapevine Inn. Double front kick, crescent kick, high round house are followed by a flurry of strikes on the practice dummy Maya had setup to teach her students.

    Maya watched Yana practice from an open window near the bar of the inn. The sounds of Yana’s strikes mingled with the hammering of construction, and her labored breathing murmured along with the babbling of the creek…

    …and pride filled Maya’s heart._

    Entry 191 – Yana

    Yana is home again! She is grown in many ways I not expect, yet when see her, I sometime still see little girl. I think maybe always will. Now that she is grown, I hope fights between us are mostly gone.

    She finds her own way in this world now, but I try offer teach from my heart when she ask. Yesterday she come to me with much pride, saying how she was on team to win Norwick games, and pride was in my heart too. So I speak careful about not let it get to head, and always respect opponent, and we not argue.

    Though she is not of my blood, I see little pieces of me in her. Pieces of me that I had when first come to Norwick life time ago. Is nice to know that pieces of my heart are in hers too.

    I hope that she choose good in life and is happy. My shoulders and arms still be here though, when she need to cry too.


  • _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.