3. A Quest for Tyr - Kara Willendt's Diary

A Quest for Tyr - Kara Willendt's Diary


  • ((OOC - Yes, Reg, she has some fire in her. And it's growing…))

    Entry 49 -

    I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Before I always felt that I'd be staying in Norwick, as I had found great friends there. It was home to me. However, I've been recently been feeling lonely. Many of my friends have moved since the roads have been opened up. With recent events that have happened to me, I've really felt like I need to be with them. I also think that some of them need me, especially Cera.

    So, I've decided to move from Norwick. It's not a complete farewell, though. I do plan to visit, there are still some friends in the town after all. Friends like Covah, who was kind enough to escort me to my new home.

    So where did I move to? Well, I noticed that a good number of my friends are at the gypsy camp. Wilhelm, Jade, Reginald, Cera, Coin… Plus, the camp is close to the Alliance guildhall. Plus, it reminds me of staying out in the woods with good ol' Tyger. I've felt tired inside lately. My heart aches from all that I've been through. I think living here in the gypsy camp will help me relax.

  • I

    Jenkies!

    Kara's got some fire in there!

    I'm glad I could think of something on short notice, it helps to know Mythology 😄

    Man! telling a story from memory at the drop of a hat is scary!

    Glad it worked out and fit so well into Kara's experience.


  • _((OOC - Wow! This was perhaps the best night of RP I've had ever. Damn, Kara sure gets emotional at times. I actually needed a tissue or two a few times.

    In a way, I wish the events at the cavern happened another night instead, because I was really looking forward to a very depressed Kara try to write a diary entry. Oh well, this diary entry should still be a very good read.

    BTW, Reginald. It was uncanny how well your story fit the situation Kara was in. It really did mirror her problem and helped to start the process of drawing her back out of the catatonic state she was in. I'm very impressed with you, who wasn't there at the beginning of her ordeal.))_

    Entry 48 -

    How could I have been so blind? I didn’t see what Yohan’s warning meant until it was too late. “Watch your friends.” I feel like such a failure. “Seven’s the lock, I’m the key.” How could I have been such a fool! Damn that black-hearted wizard!

    Today, I started the day at the Alliance hall. I met Fishel there and we decided to head to Peltarch for a play at the new theatre. Unfortunately, we never got there. A messenger falcon dropped down to me, with a message tied to it’s leg. She asked if she could come to Norwick, she urgently needed to speak to me. Fishel and I immediately turned around and headed south. We met up with Seven just outside of town. She took me to the upstairs of the Friar’s to talk privately.

    She told me of how she was having nightmares about a black demon with cobalt blue eyes and carrying a scythe. We all die. Obviously the same creature that haunts Jade’s dreams and the same creature I faced when Yohan had me travel to Thay in spirit form. She mentioned that she has found out a way to fight the creature. I knew what she was going to say before she spoke it. My amulet. She said Rashid could feel a great power in the amulet and that it was blessed by a god. She asked if I would give it to her so she and Rashid could have it. The fact that I’ve used the amulet to represent my Love and Hope must have some bearing on it too.

    And I was a fool! I gave it to her, wanting to see this creature ended. Who could I not? Seven and Jade are both friends who needed my help. She left the Friar’s and I stayed a moment, giving a short prayer to Tyr that this would work. Suddenly I heard the voice of Devon’s puppet in my mind, taunting me for being so predictable and a fool. I felt a chill as I heard her voice, and snapped back at her. I then left the Friar’s and saw how foolish I just was.

    I stood in shock as I watched Seven hand my amulet to Devon’s puppet. I couldn’t believe that Seven was betraying me. I felt my stomach twist up inside. Then the puppet left, and Seven seemed confused as to why she was leaving. She suddenly fell to the ground and started to have spazms. And Devon’s puppet then taunted me some more, gleefully driving home the fact that I just let Devon have what he wanted. I just tried to ignore him, knowing that if I started to talk back I’d only become angry, my hatred for him pounding in my head.

    I ran over to Seven, somehow knowing in my heart that she wasn’t to blame. She stopped twitching, and woke up, dazed and confused. I told her how what she remembered, and told her I saw her give my amulet to the puppet. She was devestated at what she had done. I started to run about town, looking for the wizard’s minion. She taunted me more, saying that I won’t be able to find her. After a few minutes of frantic searching, I knew she was right. I then tried to find Seven again, but she left, too distraught at what she did.

    My amulet… My Hope... I gave it away to that fiend! Just then I could feel Yohan’s spirit approaching, which deepened my sorrow. I failed him. Failed to realize his warning. However, Yohan wasn’t mad. He understood. He knows his master is very deceitful. He told me not to blame Seven, but I already had forgiven her. Can she forgive herself though? I asked Yohan if there was anything I could do to fix my mistake. Of course, he answered back in a riddle, then left. “Two creatures, one of light, one of darkness, joined as one in flesh. You know them, Soul of light, Soul of darkness. Bonded as one in love.”

    I tried to look around town again, wanting a friend. Needing a friend. Fishel had gone south to do battle with goblins. Nobody else was around that I knew. My sadness grew. Finally, I saw Janu. I broke down and started crying as I told him what happened. He tried comforting me, but I still felt terrible. Fishel and Kanen then showed, and Braeth… and finally Jade. I repeated the tale several times, each time hurt more than the next. All I could feel was sorrow, failure, and hatred of Devon.

    Damn that wizard! He’ll pay for what he did! I’ll make him pay!

    It was seeing Jade that really made me feel bad, and my sobbing grew. She held me and also tried to comfort me. It was nice, but I still couldn’t shake the sadness from me. She then left, saying there was someone she needed to see. Braeth also had gone to do something. Kanen, Fishel, and Janu then started wondering where Seven was, worried for her. She probably was feeling the same despair that gripped me. Thinking about her made he feel even worse. My feeling engulfed me, it hurt so much. My mind seemed to come to a halt, overcome with my grief. It was a relief in a way, for I stopped feeling. Couldn’t feel my grief. Couldn’t feel my pain. Just nothing. I almost felt like the world wasn’t even there. I was just barely aware of my surroundings. It didn’t matter to me.

    My friends then started to leave. I’m not sure why they did, I recall hearing Seven’s name mentioned. I quietly followed, out of reflex. These were my friends, I should stay with them. I heard one ask me something… I think he asked what I was thinking. Reflexively, I responded and told him the truth. Nothing. The other two then hugged me. I just responded with my thanks. Something in me knew it was a good gesture. They talked for a bit while I just stood there, with no thoughts running through my head. Their voices just sounded like babbling to me. It didn’t matter. I didn’t care. Then a name broke through the babble and made itself clear to me.

    Cera.

    Hearing the name brought memories of her. I missed her hugs. I wanted to see her. Needed to see her.

    I must have said something, because somebody started to talk to me, repeating Cera’s name. Yes! Cera, I wanted Cera! I needed Cera. Her hugs... her smile... her laughter... The person then asked another question... could I fight? Fight? Yes... fight... don’t let the Fear make me run, FIGHT INSTEAD!

    They again started walking, and I followed. One headed in another direction, but I stayed with the other two. Something in me told me that they were taking me to Cera. Others lept out to attack us, tried to hurt us. FIGHT! MUST FIGHT! Others fell down, left us. We continued. Soon I was hearing music.

    Then somebody hugs me, I barely acknowledge him. Then I hear Cera’s voice! She runs over and hugs me, calls me “Mommy.” It was great to hear her again, have her hugging me again. She always brings a smile. The rest of the world didn’t matter, just me and Cera. People kept talking around us. The word, “hope,” lept up from what they were saying. Something in me stirred at the word, like a forgotten memory. Someone speaks, tells another to tell a story. Another stirring. Story, I want a story. A story about Hope.

    The storyteller, I think it was Reg. Yes, it was Reg. He told a wonderful story. It was about how a god was jealous of how well off man was when the world was created. He made a box and put awful things in it, then gave it to a little girl. Another god saw it and tried to warn her, but she still opened the box. The girl then felt awful as she saw that she released War, Sickness, Anger, Hate… all the evils of the world. The story seemed to mirror my ordeal, how I gave the amulet to Devon despite Yohan’s warning. Reginald then told of how the girl found a small little thing left in the box. Hope. It was small, and without neglect it would have died. But the little girl held it, kept it warm, and it grew in her care.

    Hope. Can’t abandon Hope.

    Suddenly, an imp started to fly around us. It taunted us, taunted me. Suddenly my quiet mind started screaming in rage. DEVON! Anger, I felt much anger. And hatred. Hatred for DEVON!! Then his puppet shows up. Again taunting. I start to step forward, brandishing my weapon. Fishel held me back. The puppet asks us to follow her, so we could see our folly. The others thought it to be a trap. I didn’t care. I followed her, my hatred seething in me. The rest followed.

    The puppet led us inside. She then gloated more, and then called out to summon something. The cave grew dark, very dark. A large form stepped out of the darkness. The demon! The one that I faced, that haunts Jade and Seven!! The puppet tried to give the demon my amulet. I called out for everybody to stop her. A flash of light burst, and then the puppet asked what was wrong. The demon then cried out for his Love. It wanted… Jade. Jade was it’s Love? The demon and puppet argued, and sometimes the demon taunted us. Fishel slipped over and grabbed my amulet and handed it to me. What relief I felt upon having it. At one point, the demon looked like it would fight us, but it became insulted as the puppet tried to command it. The demon killed the puppet, and left.

    We soon left too, as the cave started acting funny, having a few quakes. I’m so glad I got the amulet back. Glad that Devon failed. He failed! He again underestimated Love! AND HE CALLS ME THE FOOL!! Oh, but he will pay in the end. Yes. He’ll pay. He hurt me this day. He’ll pay for the pain. Pay for MY PAIN! Pay for MY FRIENDS’ PAIN! THE BASTARD WILL PAY!!!

  • G

    :shock: Hes moving to where Coin and Cera are.


  • ((OOC - Cera always does something that throws me for a loop. Calling me "Mommy" was just too much! Poor Cera.))

    Entry 47 -

    I dreaded getting up this morning. I feared what Coin’s trial would do to Cera. I also had a hard time believing that Coin was as bad of a person as this trial was out to make him. I headed out of the inn, and went to find Braeth. It wasn’t too difficult to find him, he was over by the guard platform by the north gate. He was with Rashid and Karli, and another elf, named Sil I think. Karli and Rashid seemed to be arguing about something, and then both stormed off angry at each other.

    Wilhelm then entered town with Cera of all people! I guess she wanted to see the trial for herself. She really yelled at Braeth. He tried to explain himself to her, but I think he was doing more harm than good. I also sensed that even if Coin was proven innocent, his troubles with Braeth wouldn’t be over. It felt like Braeth was hiding something.

    Rashid called Braeth over, and told him that he’s dropping the charge doing with poisoning Karli. She basically told him not to do it. Braeth got very upset. He quit the militia right there, throwing down his papers. All because he thinks Justice is not being served. His attitude was starting to piss me off. He’s damning Coin to be this person as evil as Vinessa when the whole Truth isn’t known! We exchanged a few words, and then he stormed off. Wilhelm went after him, with the hopes of calming him down.

    While Braeth talked to Rashid, Cera started calling me, “Mommy.” It was nice to see her not angry at me, but to see her in such a state that she’s reverted into acting like a child really struck me senseless. I don’t think I ever realized before how shattered her mind is. I knew from the first day I met her that she wasn’t fully sane, but to this level? It’s terrible that such mental illness has struck such a sweet person. Cera and I tried to find Adam and Coin to tell them the news about the trial, but we were unsuccessful. I ended up parting with her at the tavern.

    Later, I travelled back to the Alliance hall, wanting to pray at my temple. Things were just going too crazy, especially with Braeth. I know he’s doing what he thinks is for the Greater Good, but I just can’t agree with it. Braeth came in just as I was praying, figuring that I’d be there. He and I still argued a bit, and I could tell he still wanted to do something to Coin. He just couldn’t let it go. We both left the temple and ran into Fishel. Fishel and I both tried to talk Braeth into not taking further action against Coin. It was a long talk, but we were successful in the end. I think. Coin just better watch himself and not get Braeth angry again. Fishel and I then talked, about his past, about my overcoming my Fear, a few other things too.

    It looks like Braeth wants to move. He’s sick of the town. He’s considering moving to the gypsy camp. Not a bad choice really, it suits his personality better. We also have a lot of friends that moved there, and it’s closer to the Alliance Hall. I guess I can live there.


  • _((OOC - And Kara soooooo much wanted a hug from Cera more than anything in the world. Well, that and a good story. Too bad she didn't really get earlier. I wish I knew it was going on sooner, I missed the part that I would have been interested in the most.

    Kara really wanted to talk to Cera more. She was just too scared to though. Poor girls, they are so torn up inside…))_

    Entry 46 -

    I had a wonderful day of fun and relaxation. The gypsies held a huge party, which they called a Patshiva. Unfortunately, I missed the beginning of it, which had many stories, songs, and poems. A well, fun was still abound.

    Kanen was kind enough to escort me to the camp. On the way, he spoke of how he hoped I understood his decision to leave the militia. I told him that I completely understood, and in fact felt the same way as he did. He was glad to hear my words. Why is it that I seem to be the only one that understands this paladin?

    When we got to the camp, they were holding the archery competition. I was surprised to see Coin with Cera. Last I knew he was in jail. Did they let him out so that he could see Cera one last time before the trial? If so, then I have to commend whoever let him out. Cera really did need to see her Coin again. And I have to commend Coin if he does keep his word and return for the trial. I really wanted to speak to Cera, but I was too scared that she’d not want to talk to me, so I just kept things to a polite greeting. I’ve come to miss her cheerfulness though.

    Hugh won the archery contest. Afterward they had a melee competition. Coin surprised us by showing himself to be a very skilled. He bested Kanen and made it to the final round. Ultimately though, a dwarf named Balin proved to be the best warrior. Next was a boxing competition, which turned out to be very one-sided. Hugh was completely victorious, which isn’t surprising. Monks are trained very well with hand-to-hand combat. Cera surprised me by stepping into the ring for a boxing match. She lost, but put up a very good fight.

    Things started to wind down after that, and many of the people left. A few others and I still wanted to hear some tales. Reginald started to sing a song, but was interrupted as a theif tried to steal something from Coin. Next, my bard friend recited a prose, which was very lovely. After that though, it seemed nobody wanted to tell a tale. Having had an ale, and with my mother’s blood burning in me, I decided that if nobody was going to give me a tale, I might as well give one of my own. I told of how my father became a paladin. I know I told the story before, thus it should be easy for me to tell again. Plus, it was a new crowd so it was new to everybody. The crowd loved the tale, though it took longer than I thought it would to tell it.

    Reginald was especially pleased with the tale. He told me that my heritage obviously showed itself. I could tell by the way he acted that Jade was definitely right. He’s smitten. I feel sorry for him. I must commend him for being a perfect gentleman about it though. Poor Reg.


  • ((I SO wanted Cera to give Kara a hug well everybody she knew after the festivities held in the Gyspsy Camp…just to add one extra up note before the trial.. aw well, silly server resests. I had just gotten her in the mood to do it too. Though I suppose it can be as much fun watching other characters tiwtst in the wind as it is throw new things at Cera 😉 ))


  • Entry 45 -

    Coin has been put into jail and there will be a trial held soon. I've been called to be a witness at the trial, because of the demon's blood that Coin had given me. Braeth and Adam were arguing over Adam being able to talk to me because of it, since Adam will be Coin's defense at the trial. It kind of disturbed me how Braeth was acting, gloating on how he's setting the rules. So, Coin's charges against him are two counts of attempted poisoning, and one count of conspiracy to commit mass murder with Vinessa. The last charge REALLY surprises me.

    This whole trial business put me in a foul mood, because I know the one who stands to be hurt by this is Cera. I decided to go bash out some frustrations on some wandering goblins in the Rawlinswood. While in the woods, I ran into Jade. She seemed to be in a good mood, and we both decided to hunt together. By Tyr, she is skilled with that greatsword. It seems unreal how a smaller elf such as herself can wield that weapon with such grace. She attributes her skill to her teacher, Steele.

    After our hunt, Jade went off with Wilhelm. I wandered around town for a little bit, still feeling anxious about the trial. While I was talking to Amissa, I noticed a black figure near the houses across from the Friar's place. I had a suspition that it may be Mojo, because it looked like the big cat. I left Amissa to investigate, and sure enough, it was Mojo. Poor Cera. My heart aches to think of how she must feel. I called out to Mojo, asking if Cera is okay. While I stared at the panther, I heard Cera's voice in my head, and I spoke back to her.

    I'm very disturbed by her words. She hates us all for what we are doing to her Coin. He's special to her like Braeth is to me. She thinks we all betrayed her, especially Braeth and Rashid. I think she understood that I didn't want any of this to happen, but… She said if Coin dies we will never be forgiven....

    I'm losing a good friend. And even worse than that, I'm seeing her innocence slip away. That one cherished quality I saw in her, it's fading away. It breaks my heart.

    After I left Mojo, I ran into Wilhelm and Jade again. Jade pulled me aside, wanting to talk to me. She told me that she thinks Reg has fallen for me. Now, I've known the bard for a long time. He was one of the first friends I made when I arrived in Norwick. I suppose I shouldn't be too surprised if he has fallen for me, but I think he hides it well. Usually, at least. Jade told me he had drunken himself into quite a stupor the night I became bonded to Braeth. Wilhelm had a hell of a time getting him down from the roof of the inn. Poor Reg. Falls for a girl, only to have her belong to another man.

    Later, while I was talking to Wilhelm, I felt a spirit reach out to my mind. At first, I thought it was Yohan again, but it felt different. Familiar, but not the old man. A few brief flashes entered my mind, a knight of Torm was fighting some bugbears, trying to rescue a friend. I realized the knight was Sir Wulf. I spent quite a bit of time trying to find somebody help me retrieve him, the only way I could think of was to become invisible, for I did not want to fight bugbears. However, before I went deep into the woods, I felt the spirit's contact with me disappear, like he was pulled away. It was strange, but I felt in my gut like the spirit had been pulled back to the realm of the living. The sorceror I had gotten to help me and I decided not to go search for him, hoping that my feeling was right.


  • _((OOC - Sorry, Braeth, but I know I did not tell you about the vial Coin gave me. I know because he made me promise not to tell, and I was faithful to that promise.

    Just a reminder to everybody. You should consider the contents of this diary (and also the "Descent into Madness" story) as knowledge of an OOC nature. Your character should not be considered to IC know what is written in this diary unless I give you specific permission stating so. Braeth does have permission to have IC knowledge of part of the diary, from beginning entry up to the entry when Kara went insane with Fear. A few other people have been shown one entry from the diary, that being the entry about the events at the well that lead to her Fear.))_

    Entry 44 -

    I started the day talking to Reginald, Covah, and Piggu (a bard I briefly met before). We talked about a number of things. The new theatre in Peltarch, how I've been finding myself to be telling stories to people, and about my problems with Devon. I only started to talk about Devon because Piggu made a wise crack about keeping an eye out for wizards wanting me for experimentation as I'm the rare offspring of a paladin and a bard. Normally, I'd really appreciate the joke, but it kinda touched a sore spot considering the fact that Devon does want me for something.

    Wilhelm came rushing up to me, asking me to follow him immediately. He mentioned that Braeth and Rashid were about ready to kill Coin over something. The news hit me by surprise, and I immediately became concerned for Cera. If she were to witness them killing Coin, surely it'd break her mind even more than it already is. Not to mention her heart. I immediately followed Wilhelm to the South Gate of town. Before we left the walls of the village, Wilhelm stopped and whispered a question to me. He asked if Coin had ever tried to get me to drink some demon's blood. I whispered back that Coin did give me a vial of the substance when I became bonded to Braeth, telling me that it should help me with controling my Fear. I didn't drink it at the time, however, because I really didn't trust the substance (I was scared of demons, why would drinking the blood of one help?) and if what he said was true I'd rather save it for when I needed it.

    Braeth, Rashid, Coin, and Kanen's voices grew louder, as their argument became more heated. Wilhelm and I immediately exited the town and approached. Fishel was also there, I think he was trying to calm everybody down. Kanen was also trying to calm the crowd. But Braeth and Rashid were full of anger and hatred at Coin. It seemed that they accused him of trying to corrupt me and poison Karli. At least those things. Oh yeah, Coin also claimed to have elf blood stored on him in waterskins. If Coin had done wrong (and the demon blood could surely be considered wrong, also the poisoning), then Coin should have just been jailed so that all the evidence could be brought forth and a proper trial be done. But the two were wanting to kill him right on the spot! I tried telling everybody to cool themselves and asked to have the whole situation explained to me, and also remind them how they could cause harm to Cera with their actions. Nobody but Wilhelm seemed to hear me though. Rashid challenged Coin to a duel. I stormed off, disgusted with what I was seeing. This is not the way Justice should be done! When they started the duel, only Rashid was swinging a weapon, Coin refused to fight. Not wanting to stain his honor at killing a defenseless man (though if you ask me, Coin did agree with the duel so there should be no stain), Rashid walked away in a very angry mood.

    Cera was not there in body, but her familiar, Mojo was. Mojo was very angry and ready to attack anybody who wanted to harm Coin. I looked down at Mojo, who was growling away, and decided that I really should try again to be the voice of reason. Braeth was still wanting to kill Coin where he stood. Braeth again mentioned how I told him of the vial of demon's blood. I was a bit shocked, for I know I did not mention about the vial before, only today when Wilhelm just asked me. Did Braeth read my diary? I'm going to have to talk about that with him. I don't like the idea of anybody reading my diary without my permission. Anyways, Wilhelm and I were able to calm Braeth down enough so that he was thinking rationally. He walked off to his secret place in the woods to clear his head. I told Coin I wanted to speak with him later, and left with Wilhelm and Reginald to talk to Braeth.

    Braeth was upset, as I expected him to be, but I was surprised that he was mostly upset with himself and not with me. I truly expected him to be angry at me. Braeth was angry with himself because he had let his anger and hatred rule again. He did wonder why Kanen defended Coin. I explained that Kanen probably felt the same way as I did. Coin should not have been killed like Braeth and Rashid were going to do. Coin should have been arrested and a regular trial with proper evidence brought forth. Braeth argued that not everything can be within the bounds of Law and that I should remember the Greater Good. I disagree, this was well within the bounds of Law. Poisoning Karli at the least is against the law, even if it was just pixie dust. I'm sure that some law could have been cited for the demon blood he gave me. But most importantly, I stressed about Cera and how hurt she'd be. Tyr protect and watch over that girl… she may already be hurt from what happened. She was watching through Mojo.

    After Braeth was again of calm mind, all the guys in the group decided to have a little fun with sparring against one another. I guess they needed to vent out a little of their anger and frustration. I didn't partake though. Instead I watched and defended myself from the occasional goblin that decided to attack us.

    I'm just so frustrated at what happened. Sometimes men really piss me off, always so quick to draw a weapon instead of thinking things through. I have to applaud Kanen, Fishel, and Wilhelm for keeping their heads cool. I'm also frustrated at the fact that Braeth seems to act more human and I act more elven. Oh well, hopefully things will work out alright in the end.

    Please be alright Cera.


  • _((OOC - I wonder if people are detecting a change in Kara since she overcame her Fear. This change may or may not be fore the better, only time will tell. Let's just say that her Fear still has some control over her. it's the manner in which it controls her now that's changed…

    The poor girl doesn't even realize it though. She just thinks her Fear is over and done with.))_

    Entry 43 -

    Fishel has returned! Unfortunately, he's got some amnesia. At least our good friend is alright otherwise.

    It seems that more and more friends are wanting to help with the problem of Devon. When I left the Boarshead Inn today, I found Braeth talking to a bunch of people about it. Of course, I was then obliged to talk about Yohan's messages to me. One person in particular that I was telling the tale too was a woman named "Blood Rain." I'm not sure if her name is spelled that way, but that's how it seemed it was pronounced. Odd name really, but I've heard stranger.

    While I talked about how I reminded Yohan of his wife, Braeth pointed out a mistake in my tale. I keep thinking that Devon killed her, but according to Braeth, Yohan said that Devon took her. When he pointed it out to me, I remember that those were the words Yohan said indeed. I just understood "took" to mean "killed." Devon himself (through his female puppet again) spoke to my mind, accusing me of spreading lies. As if I'm perfect. Oh well, if it annoyed Devon, then I'm happy that I had a mistake.

    It'd be just as well if he killed her anyways. She's propably a puppet like Yohan was. Heck, she's probably the one he's using to speak to us now. Bastard.

    Devon's puppet then started to speak into the minds of people around me, taunting them. Soon it was suggested that we travel to the Alliance's outpost. There the puppet would not be able to overhear us and then twist our words against us. Everybody started to head out while I thought about something. That's when Devon made a mistake. He had his puppet come up to me and revealed herself to me, giving me a face to match the voice. Devon taunted that my friends had left me, and I replied that I was leaving to, and promptly did so. Of course, Devon taunts back that I'm cowardly running away. I just ignored it. I left because Devon disgusts me, and I did not want to hold up my friends.

    Blood Rain had to leave us, she had to attend to a friend. A good number of us made the journey north to my temple in the Alliance guildhall. There was Verix, Pip, Kanen, Braeth, Janu, Rashid, and Fishel. At one point, a headless spirit interrupted our conversation to talk with Rashid. Rashid had been helping the spirit out with trying to get a head for her. Some of the other people kept saying things to make the spirit angry. They weren't giving her a lot of respect, and she soon left.

    Fishel, Janu, and Rashid began to bombard me with questions about Yohan, Devon, the necklace, and the my spirit trip to spy on Devon. After much talk, we decided to try to contact Yohan, hoping to get him to talk with my friends. We were successful and Braeth, Rashid, Janu, and I talked with Yohan while Fishel stood guard (Verix, Pip, and Kanen had left us). What did we learn? Devon is definately in Thay. He wants Seven because she is the "key." He wants me because I'm the "lock." What are we lock and key to? Domination and control over life. Braeth guessed that Yohan means that Devon wants to become a god, Yohan thought Braeth was wise to see that meaning. Toward the end of our impromtu seance, Yohan warned that Devon was getting angry at us. He probably was scrying me and could see Yohan was in contact with us. We felt a darkness approaching us, and I could tell it was the same scythe-wielding creature I met before. Rashid used some hidden power to surround us in protective light. We ended our talk with Yohan soon after, not wanting to tax Rashid too greatly. Suddenly, the altars in my temple started to glow with sparkling auras. Obviously, the gods had blessed us. They deem our quest to stop this mad wizard to be quite worthy.

    Braeth seemed surprised when Yohan called me his hope. But I think I understand. Devon may want me because I'm a lock to something he needs opened, but at the same time, I'm a lock that can seal his chances of success away. With my Love, Faith, and Hope, I shall succeed. And then Yohan can finally have his rest.

    Braeth and Rashid left us, deciding to get some rest. Fishel still wanted to talk to me, and Janu stayed for a little while. Fishel asked me what hope was. It seems he forgot! Janu and I tried to explain it at first, and he didn't seem to understand. Then I decided to tell him of how my Fear consumed me and how it was hope that kept me alive through it. He understood after my tale, and not only that, but he remembered me telling it before, when Kanen was in jail due to Justinia. Janu left, but Fishel and I continued to talk. I asked him about his deity, as he never spoke of Mara before. He wasn't sure why he was guarded about his deity's identity before. Mara is a goddess of healing, perhaps a relatively new one too. We also talked about Kanen, who is a good friend of Fishel's. As we talked, some more memories came back to him. He's not really worried if they all don't come back though.

    One thing is apparent, I need to talk to Seven. It's imperitive that her and I are kept safe from Devon until we find away to ruin his plans. I'm also worried about her since Kanen broke the news to her that he loves somebody else. She seems to have a soft heart under her strong exterior. She usually hides it well though.


  • Entry 42 –

    Since I had travelled up to Peltarch, I decided to spend a few nights at the Alliance Guildhall with is a short travel away. Of course, this meant traveling through some bandits, but the journey was relatively uneventful. The guildhall is very nice. Each council member has a room to stay in. The temple looks very grand, though an altar to Torm hasn't arrived yet. I'll have to inquire with Vashere as to the status of it. At least the other gods we want represented, Tyr, Helm, Tempus, and Athanatos, have their altars. I also noticed that the sign for Braeth's room has his name misspelled. We'll have to have that fixed. I can't be too angry about it. Elven names can be a bit tricky to spell correctly, especially if you are trying figure it out on the way it's pronounced.

    Braeth showed Jade and Wilhelm the new guild and gave them a quick tour. I asked Wilhelm if he passed on the information I gave him the other night about my visits from Yohan, and he replied he hadn't. They mentioned they were needing to get going, so I briefly told the important information I learned, deciding to skip the tale of how I got it. Even the little bit I did give upset Jade, though. I feel sorry to put her through such discomfort at hearing how Devon is after Seven and I, and how I faced her nightmare creature. I know very well what it's like to have been put through a great trauma and the pain with having to face it.

    I let the two be, knowing that any more talk about the subjest would do more harm then good. I decided to head back to Peltarch. It was nice to explore the city some more, and I found a wonderful surprise. They have a grand temple dedicated to Tyr! However, I found nobody inside it at the time. I'll have to check back sometime in the hopes of finding out who takes care of the temple.


  • Entry 41 -

    One thing I don't like about having the roads opened up to the other town is that many of my friends have moved. The town feels so lonely sometimes.

    I did run into a new traveller, a bard named Laura. I started to show her around the town so she would know where various things are. Soon after we started the tour, I noticed a falcon following me. Suddenly it killed itself! Laura and I were baffeled at what we saw, but then decided to continue on. Another falcon approached us. As we moved closer to it to take a better look at the bird, it flew away and then stopped. We moved closer again, and again it moved away. Obviously, the falcon was trying to lead us somewhere. It lead us into the grave yard, and to a particular momument that stood in the far corner. It disappeared, and lots of lightning struck the ground. After the lightning died down, I noticed my bracelet I got from the bonding ceremony was lying on the ground. I remember I had lost it when I was felled by the bandits back when they tried invading Norwick. I was very happy to see the symbol of my bond again. I just wonder how it got there.

    After returning to the town, Laura decided to head to the inn for some rest. I paced around town for a while until I ran into Kanen, Karion, and a bunch of others. I told Karion what I decided for my Elven name, he thought it fit well, as did Kanen. I then asked to talk with Kanen. I really wanted to tell him of the visits I had from Yohan. We went to the in, and some of the others also came with us. There was Victor, Lucia, Celestria (a priestess of Ishtar), and some others.

    While I told the story, some of my friends started hearing a voice in their head which basically was slandering me. They described it as a woman's voice. I figured it was probably Devon working through another person's body again. I decided to test the theory, and purposely started to fiddle with my amulet as I talked. Sure enough, the voice spoke to Kanen with a scathing remark about my amulet.

    I decided to continue with my story. First, I really don't think I was giving away any details that Devon didn't already know. He knew that Yohan spoke to me before he killed him. And he did see us scrying him, so I would assume he would figure that I saw him working at his scrying of my friends. The voice was really getting to Karion though. The voice even spoke to me at one point, taunting me. I wondered aloud why Devon is so obsessed with me, and he replied it was because I was obsessed with him. I'll admit I now have great interest in seeing Justice served on that black-hearted wizard, but I can't say my full interest in this endevor was realized until he took interest in me. I still think it has something to do with Yohan's wife.

    Kanen and I began to whisper back and forth to hopefully not be heard by Devon. We discussed what we should do. Both of us agree that Seven and I need to be protected. Kanen suggested we stay at the Alliance guild. I'm going to try to talk to Seven about it. But I think that isn't going to help much. We need to get to a place where Devon can't use his scrying magics. Perhaps I can as for Tyr's as to hide the temple from Devon's sight?

    After I told my story, I mentioned to Kanen that I haven't seen Peltarch yet and would like to. He agreed to accompany me to the city, and Sir Wulf also joined us. On the way we ran into Braeth, who was busy helping a friend with a small quest. We continued on our journey to the city while Braeth went back to his task.

    Peltarch is a grand city. Of course, nothing compared with Waterdeep, but it is still grand. Especially since it's been a while since I've been in a city. Kanen showed us to some of the various stores. I picked up a new outfit to wear. Items cost a bit more up here, but I think rarer items can be found as well. Then we went to the new theatre, which is what I really wanted to see. What a large theatre. Reginald and his friends really must have gathered a lot of cash to fund the construction of this place. Unfortunately, none of the bards were there, but we took a look around anyways. Kanen left us soon after. Amissa and Arianeria (that's the elf who's name I tried to write the other night but knew I mispelled, I still think I'm mispelling it) then entered. We talked briefly, until Wilhelm and Reginald appeared. I quickly told them of my recent visits from Yohan, since it's something that concerns them as well.

    After that, I headed to the inn, being quite tired.

  • I

    I think Amara Cal'Nuik suits you very well 😄


  • ((OOC - Poor Kara. She gets out of the frying pan (her Fear), only to find herself in the fire (evil Red Wizard foe). I swear, I think I'm masochistic, because I sure as hell am enjoying this.))

    Entry 40 -

    Egads I'm worn out. I didn't sleep well last night, to many bad thought swimming in my head about Yohan's warning. Then to make matters worse, Yohan AGAIN contacted me and revealed that, yes, things are WORSE then I could even imagine.

    It happened as I was talking with Karion. Cera and a new friend Soul had just left us. We all were talking about things and I had just warned them to look out for my safety, telling them of the warning I received from Yohan. While I stood there with Karion, I suddenly felt dizzy, and it seemed like I was bombarded with many voices, none of which I could clearly understand. After my vision cleared, everything looked black and white, and I heard a single voice call out, "…amulet girl."

    I immediately recognized it as Yohan, and grabbed the necklace from my pack. Sure enough, it was shimmering with an inner light, and felt warm to the touch. Yohan's voice filled my head, telling me that he must show me something. The world went black for a moment, then I found myself floating above, looking down at Karion and my body, which was still standing there, mimicking my movements. I felt Yohan's hand on my arm, and we began to fly south. The land passed by quickly, and I realized we were going far to the south. We slowed down and approached a castle keep. As we saw the first of it's guards, Yohan bid me to hide my amulet and stay quiet. We passed unnoticed by a wight, then some skeletal guards. We flew up a tower and I found myself in a large circular room made of obsidian.

    In the room stood Devon in front of a table. Devon appeared to be quite young, but that is probably an illusion or unnatural magics since he's over 100 years old. When I looked on his cowled face, I felt nothing but hatred and disgust for the black hearted wizard. This madman who has harmed my friends, and threatens to do more harm. Probably an undead himself. Which disgusts me even more.

    As I was on this trip, I could still hear what was going on around me, though I was trying to ignore it. I could tell that Karion was really getting worried though, so I tried to signal to him that I can't talk right now and that I was okay. I didn't want to talk to him because I didn't want to draw attention to myself. Later Braeth, Soul, and an elven lass called Earawein (okay, I know I'm not spelling her name right, I really should learn Elvish) also joined us, much to their worry as they saw my condition. It was a bit disorienting to be in two places at once.

    At Yohan's bidding, I looked at the table. There were a handful of orbs and a water basin on the table. As I looked into the orbs, I could see the various places in Narfell. There was Norwick, Jiyyd, the gypsy camp, a d a city which I'll assume was Peltarch. Yohan then pulled me over to the water basin. As I gazed into it, I saw images of my friends. Wilhelm, Jade, Reginald, Braeth, Kanen... The basin focused on Seven. I glanced at Devon and he seemed quite interested in her. He waved his hand over the basin and I could see her shiver as if suddenly cold. "You're next, my pet," the wizard said, his words sending a shiver down my own spine.

    He then waved away the image of Seven, and brought forth another image. The image was of myself, or my body rather, as it stood in the Inn surrounded by my worried companions. Devon seemed surprised at something, and I noticed what bothered him. Standing next to me in the image was Yohan, holding my arm like he was with my spirit in Devon's chamber! Devon then turned to us, staring right at me. He knew we were here.

    He called out to Yohan, chiding the old man his scrying. Devon then summoned a black creature and directed it toward me. The creature was completely black, and carried a scythe. It seemed like the creature that Jade had dreamed about in her nightmares, based on her description. Yohan tried to pull me away, but his grip let go and I felt myself fall. I sat slumped on the floor, suddenly feeling very cold. My armor even was chilled to the touch, so much so that it hurt. The creature looked pleased at the thought of killing me, and raised it's scythe for a killing blow. I tried to move away, but found that I didn't have the strength to. I called out for Braeth as I know he was with my body, and then called out for Tyr to aid me.

    Just as the scythe was to swing down, I felt my amulet slip out of it's hiding place. It glowed brightly, it's light contrasting the darkness of the creature. The creature cried out and shrunk back from the light, much to my relief. Then I felt powerful hands grab me, and whisk me away from the chamber. I looked over to see who it was, as it didn't feel like Yohan, and found myself staring at the face of Tyr. He set me down and left. As I looked around me, I noticed I was back in the Inn, surrounded by many friends who all were demanding I tell them what was going on.

    I bid them all to sit down with me, since I knew this was not going to be a short tale. Steele and Seven also joined us. When I saw Seven shiver despite being in a warm inn, I knew that what I saw was true. I told the group everything I saw. We all debated on what to do, what it means, are we actually insane enough to fight a Red Wizard. In the end, I think we decided that our main priority was to protect Seven and myself, as we seem to have drawn the wizard's attention the most. Second priority is to gather as much information as we can.

    Devon's wrong about one thing. My amulet, and the love and hope it represents to me, is not foolish. It protected me. Braeth protected me. And my faith in my god protected me. I know you see me writing this, Devon, and I hope that what I'm writing is eating you up inside.

    Well, so my thoughts aren't focused on a certain Red Wizard before I go to bed, I'm going to write about some thoughts I had about the Elven name I have to choose. I almost completely forgot about this task that was set before me after bonding to Braeth. Karion and Braeth had some suggestions, and I did a little more research and thinking on the name. It needed to be something that defines me as a person. In the end, I went with something that combined some of their suggestions with my own ideas. Amara Cal'Nuik. It means, roughly, "Beautiful Woman of Faith and Great Hope." I think it suits me well.

  • ?

    ::stands outside the edge of Kara's mind…waiting for her to dream::

    "...yesss...fall asleep...yesss..."


  • _((OOC - Who says we need DMs to get some great RP plot going? No, I'm not bashing the DMs here, they've done a wonderful job with Narfell. But getting involved in Zwie's own player generated plot has made for some absolutely fabulous RP.

    I wish Zwie could have seen me when she had Yohan's sprit contact me, (using tells sent to me). I went and spoke aloud what I was sending in tells back to the spirit, making it look to my companions like I was talking to a necklace. Obviously, they thought I was flipping out.

    I can't wait to see where this all goes. I just hope it doesn't make Kara paranoid again…))_

    Entry 39 -

    By Tyr, first I had Yohan's spirit contact me and now I swear I can feel Devon's eyes watching me. I can just imagine him laughing at me and calling me and my amulet foolish. Even the air feels chilly all of a sudden.

    I'm getting ahead of myself though.

    I started the day running into an elf named Ari. That's a shortened version of her name, I can't remember how the whole thing was pronounced. I'm lucky Braeth has a nice short name. Ari was doing good, and while I briefly chatted with her another person named Call also greeted us. I could detect a twinkle in Ari's eye at him. Very much reminds me of when Braeth and I started to get to know each other.

    Speaking of Braeth, he told me he's trying to gather some money to by a house for us. Even though we'll have a place in the Alliance outpost, he really wants a place he and I can call our own. I like the idea; the Inn is getting a bit expensive anyways. Another good thing is that I'm starting to feel my old Braeth returning, he's not thinking so much in "shades of grey."

    Kanen then approached, and he was looking quite sad. He was a bit surprised when I asked him what was wrong, he thought Braeth had told me. But of course Braeth hadn't, figuring that it was Kanen's tale to tell. He invited Amissa and me to the Inn so that he could tell his problems. He was troubled because he thinks he hurt Seven, because he told her that he feels he is in love with somebody else. He really thought that Seven was lost to him, and was surprised at how hard she took the news. I feel bad for both of them. I feel sorry for them. Kanen's torturing himself over hurting Seven, which shows that he still cares for her as a friend at least. And Seven… I'm not sure if she's known where her heart lies, with having feelings for both Kanen and Jubei. I wonder if Jubei has also shut his doors to her. It wouldn't surprise me if he did, he seemed very upset with himself for letting his feelings get in the way of his job. Amissa and I gave Kanen some words of encouragement. Can you believe Kanen expected us to shun him for what he did? Even though I'm Seven's friend, I know that he did not mean to hurt her. I hope he realizes that. I suppose I should try to find Seven and make sure she's okay.

    One interesting irony about Kanen. I've told him before that he reminds me of my father. Even more so after Kanen told us of the woman he does love, Cila. She's a bard.

    While Amissa and I talked to Kanen, another knight I had recently met, Sir Wulf, approached us. The four of us talked about things for a little bit, and then Kanen left to go rest. A short while after he left, I began to hear a voice call out to me. As it became louder, I could make out the words, "amulet girl." I started to feel scared, thinking that Devon was somehow haunting me. I felt a warmth in my pack, and upon searching through it, I pulled out the necklace the old man, Yohan, gave me. As I did so, I could hear the voice get louder. The necklace seemed to sparkle unnaturally. I inquired if this was Devon or Yohan calling me, and the voice responded that it was Yohan. He called me his hope. His spirit was unable to find rest and wishes to undo what has been done. Yohan warned me that Jade was just a distraction in Devon's plans. Devon had already conquered death. He wants to power. Power to spread death, disorder, chaos. The wizard wants to dominate life. Yohan warned me to watch my friends, and then faded away.

    Amissa and Sir Wulf were quite concerned with me as I regained my senses. It seems that I was talking aloud when I spoke to Yohan. I hope they don't think I was acting too crazy. I tried as best as I could to explain the whole situation, hoping that it'd be enough for them to not worry about my sanity. How ironic of this to happen, considering I was earlier boasting how I had overcome the Fear that haunted me.

    Yohan's words trouble me, though. Watch my friends? Obviously, Devon still has plans for us. But what should I be careful about as I watch my friends? Should I watch them for their sake, or watch them for my own sake? Both?

    May Tyr protect us all. I fear dark times are on the horizon.

  • ?

    ::evil grin::

    Hmmm…foolish cleric. You and your damned amulet...it will be your undoing.

    ::wild, evil cackle::


  • Entry 38 -

    When I stepped out of the inn today, I immediately felt Devon's eyes staring at me. I could also here him muttering, "Amulet girl," and "Foolish amulet," and other nonsense. I looked about first and didn't see him, but then noticed that he was moving around. I found his interest in me quite disturbing.

    Finally, the old man approached me, saying he wanted to talk to me. This time though, he started to act a little different. He called himself Yohan. He said his master was not watching, so he could talk. He stared at my amulet, and said talked about his wife, who used to have an amulet that he gave her. Sadly, he told that Devon had killed her. I reminded Yohan very much of his wife, and he gave me her amulet. Braeth tried to ask Yohan where his master was, but all we learned was he lived in Thay. Makes sense, since Devon is a Red Wizard. The old man said his master returns, and indicated to me to be quiet about what he told.

    Devon then demanded to speak with Wilhelm. Kanen mentioned that Wilhelm wished not to see him, and refused to take the old man to him. It seems Devon started to cause pain to the old man, hoping our hearts would soften. The old man turned to me and asked me to take him, but I knew not where Wilhelm was and told him so. I felt sorry for Yohan, being under control of such an evil person.

    Braeth sent a message bird to Wilhelm and received one back stating to take the old man to the gypsy camp. Thus we did, and blindfolded the old man so that he could not see how to get there. Of course, if Devon is as powerful as things suggest, I think that was a futile attempt. May Tyr protect those gypsies.

    Devon and Wilhelm talked, though I know my druid friend would rather not speak to the wizard at all. Devon said that he hasn't been bothered by Wilhelm's friends lately, and so would honor his deal of releasing Jade, and told Wilhelm that she'll be found, "where the water falls."

    While those two talked, Braeth was talking to a fellow elf. He then made what I consider an idiotic mistake. Even after Devon mentioned that he could understand elvish better than Braeth, my love still kept talking and mentioned that the old man's name was Yohan. Devon immediately demanded how Braeth knew the old man's name. By Tyr, I wanted to slap Braeth so hard. Fortunately for him, he was quite a few feet away from me. Devon noticed me fiddle with my amulet again, and came over to yell at me about it. He then realized that that Yohan had most likely spoken to us and then decided to get rid of the old man and killed him.

    "At least the old man is in peace now," everybody says. I do agree with that. But I think they missed the big picture here. Yohan was a link to Devon, and a link that the wizard obviously didn't fully control. We lost an advantage. Not to mention the fact that the old man asked me not to let it be known that he spoke to us. Braeth betrayed that trust on my behalf. I pray that the old man's spirit forgives us for our mistake.

    At least Jade is returned, but I do not think this is the end. I told Braeth as much. We'll need to watch Jade and Wilhelm closely, for I think the wizard has more plans in store for them. And me as well. I still think he's interested in me. I wonder if I also remind Devon of Yohan's wife. Perhaps he did more with her than kill her.

    Tyr protect me.

    I also spoke with Covah today. The dwarf was glad to see I was doing okay, though he noticed I had a lot on my mind. I told him of what happened with Devon. I figured that it'd be good if another knows of the trouble and could perhaps watch out for us. He then told me that he was attacked by a beast in Peltarch that turned into Vahsere when defeated. Obvious sign of lycanthropcy. I'll have to make sure Vahsere gets some belladona if he hasn't already.


  • Entry 37 –

    Not much going on. I saw Coin and Cera again. Coin warned gave me an outfit he picked up in Peltarch, and warned me that Devon seemed to be very interested in me. I must say I’m a bit nervous with how he kept staring at me when we met.

    What is his plan now? Why did he suddenly switch from wanting to kill her to using her as a hostage?

    Also saw Andrio, who is a paladin I previously met. He seemed to be acting very odd, like his head was jumbled up. I chanted a prayer to Tyr for him and Andrio returned to normal. We chatted for a little bit, as I told him of the big battle with Vinessa and Selron and the demon that was their master. He was worried about his brother Sergio. I do hope the man is still alive.


  • ((OOC – And the plot thickens))

    Entry 36 –

    I spoke with Karion today. He still hasn’t gotten to talk to Braeth. Oh well. I confessed to Karion that I’m worried about Braeth. I don’t like the new attitude he’s gotten, this whole “shades of grey” bit. It worries me. Karion thought it was odd too.

    Coin and Cera then approached me. Both seem to be much better. Cera’s acting like herself again. Coin gave me some fairy dust so that I could get some of Misty’s special brews. He says they make a person invisible, which sounds very useful. The two had invited me to help them out with some errands, but I wanted to see Braeth so I left them.

    Braeth was with Wilhelm, Reginald, and a gypsy that I hadn’t met before. The gypsy became very worried when Braeth joked about Reginald being a werewolf. It seems gypsies have great loathing for the beasts, which I would say is justified. Just as we were talking about werewolves, we suddenly heard some howling from the North Rawlinswood. Braeth headed south to see to the situation, as did Reginald, Smog and Suppei. I must say I was worried at one point because I could sense that Braeth was bitten by one of the werewolves, but he had eaten some belledona and should be better. Wilhelm also briefly went, I think he was hoping that if he shapeshifted into a wolf he’d be able to talk to the beasts. But he came back and announced he was heading north.

    Kanen then came over to talk with me. As we talked, he noticed an old man staring at us. We approached him and he asked for Wilhelm, saying he had a message to deliver. The man was very odd, and in the back of my mind, I sensed Devon’s handywork. Damn my woman intuition, I was right, but that’s getting ahead of myself. We told the old man that Wilhelm headed north, and tried to get him to give us the message to pass on. He refused our offer, instead demanding to take us to Wilhelm. Braeth caught up to us and we all went to find Wil.

    The old man stopped several times to stare at me, and my amulet in particular. His gaze made me feel very uncomfortable. He asked me why I wore the amulet, and I told him that it’s for protection, and that my love gave it to me so that he could be protecting me even if he weren’t around. The man seemed satisfied by my answer, but kept staring every now and then. At one point he called it foolish. That really angered me. I answered back that love is never foolish, to which he replied that I knew nothing of love. Something inside me exploded, and I started to yell back at him how I sure as hell know about love! Without my love for Braeth, and his love for me, I would be dead!

    Finally, Wilhelm was found and we headed back to the Boarshead Inn. Reginald, Wilhelm, Braeth, and Kanen were there to listen to this old man’s message. The man did a lot of strange theatrics at first, and then suddenly started talking quite normal. To make this long story short, the man was actually Devon, or at least the wizard speaking through another’s body, and demanded that Wilhelm call off his “wolves” in exchange for Jade’s life. Much bantering took place, and we kept demanding proof that she was alright. He never gave any real proof, but did change himself to look exactly like her, talk like her, and even spoke with her memories. I knew it wasn’t anywhere’s close to the real Jade though. I doubt she’d yell at me to stop fiddling with my amulet.

    After the old man left us, we began to talk about Steele. Wilhelm still didn’t trust the paladin. Steele walked in on us and was made very uncomfortable by our conversation and left. By Tyr, all these guys like to act before thinking, and it’s hurting Steele’s feelings to see his friends turn on him. Braeth and I chased after Steele, and we told him that we thought he was innocent, saying that it was obvious that if he had given the death threats, it was only because Devon was in control of his body.

    After talking with Steele, Braeth got word that Vashere had been killed, he was last seen heading to the Goblin Stronghold. A group of us went after him to rescue his body.