3. Journal of Shane Andryl

Journal of Shane Andryl

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    Journal Entry #5

    I write this entry more as confession than as recount. Countless hours have I already spent over this in prayer, seeking the solace that shall not be granted. I must write it now, before shame forbids me to do so.

    It had been many a day that I spent near the gates of Norwick, either North and South, aiding in the defense of this beset town. Attacks are frequent it seems, launched either by those hateful Goblins, or the bandits to the North. Many a blade has cut my skin, and many a life has been taken by Trivaenstel. I have held Helm’s name high, and have fought with valor. But I have grown wary, and have let down my guard, allowing anger to flourish over common sense. The lady and I had had enough of this, and had decided to root out these bandits from the pass. I now see the foolishness in it. It was with but the swift stroke of a blade that the bandits cut her down, and soon after I lay beside, the officer’s blade still stuck in my back as I tried to save the young woman’s life. The last thing I’ve heard that day was his laughter as he gloried over our demise, and stripped our bodies clean while there was even still an inch of breath within me. I curse him for the foulness of the deed, and myself for my stupidity.

    I awoke in the most mysterious of surroundings, and it shook my very nerves. It was but a moment later that I understood where I was, and the recognition was like a hammer that crashed onto my very soul. At first, I prayed for guidance, and hoped that salvation was still to be found. Yet as time passed - it seemed like countless ages - it became clear that none was to be found. I have shamed my Lord then, for it was then that the Beast came, and whispered it’s lies within my ear… and I believed.

    I have been granted a new chance to this life, though not by the hands of Lord Helm. He knows of my deed and has exacted His wrath. I am plagued by the memory of it when I close my eyes, and hear the Beast’s tongue in my dreams. I must know my error, He sees to it… and I do. I am alone with my pain and my prayers.

    Journal Entry #6

    After all my prayers and my devotion, Helm has forgiven me. I feel His presence all around, and I am strengthened in it. He has shown me His resolve in guiding my hand against the foulness of the undeath plague that haunts the Norwick Crypts. I know my path now, and I walk it with pride.

    Journal Entry #7

    Dire news has come to my attention, brought to me by messenger from my Cormyrean homestead. My father lies ill in his deathbed. I must leave at once.

    Journal Entry #8

    It is as though Helm himself forbids me to leave these lands. I have chartered passage on a ship in Peltarch to speed my journey home, yet it has been for naught. The ship has been infested with rats. I have sent word to my home that I shall not be able to return speedily, and hope Garran will bring him the news in his own gentle manner. I pray for him now, that he may yet live.

    Journal Entry #9

    A most interesting meeting has occurred this very day. I have met with other brothers of the faith, and it pleases me. It is good to know that Helm is well represented here. The paladin Kanen - I have heard his name and reputation before near the fires - has come to Norwick this day, and has offered me a place amongst his Order. I cannot refuse to stand aside in this. Much work remains as yet undone.

  • S

    Journal Entry #1

    Home, I look upon it for the last time.

    Proud Imnesvale lies beautifully in this moonlit night, quiet and peaceful. Andryl Keep stands aside it, as always, a beacon of hope and strength in these lands that I can call my home. Yet I know that the hope is gone, it died when Father was returned to us a forthnight ago, broken in both body and soul. He has lost his faith, and I can no longer bear to watch it. The look in his eyes still haunts me, although it has been hours ago since I’ve seen it for the last. He is no longer the proud knight he once was. He is but an empty shell, awaiting absolution for things he can not control. Even the blade that he has offered me was granted more in curse than smile. Ah, good Trivaenstel, you have served him and his father’s well. May you do the same for me.

    Crom is eager to go, I can feel it. He watches me with his steel hawken eyes, silently, but forbidding. I don’t blame him, for his master is in need. I am glad he came, and gave me purpose.

    I look upon good Imnesvale for the last time. Garran has been entrusted with the affairs of the Keep. I am sure he will act with wisdom, so that Imnesvale may continue to prosper. I pray that all will be well…

    I have not even said goodbye.

    Journal Entry #2

    Crom has lead me to the town of Norwick, well up north in the realms. He has not been slowed either. It has cost me my small fortune to keep track of him. For 7 days I rode in his flight, trying to keep him within sight. It is a miracle how the good hawk can put up with this pace, though it seems his master’s need has granted him godly wings.

    It has all been to no avail, however. I have found Nalia’s body between the rocks south of Norwick, slain at the hands of Goblins. They have tasted Trivaenstel, but it offers little solace. My childhood friend has parted from this world, and I fear Crom is soon to follow. I was too late…

    Journal Entry #3

    This barbarian town appears to have more to offer than it seems. I have spent the last few days learning more of these lands, and of it’s perils. I have been guided by a young, fine warrior, Zorazina Kaarlak. We’ve already shared many a road these past few days. She has a fine heart, though a bit rash at time. Yet, such seems to be the trademark of most that frequent these parts. None the less, she seems as eager as I am to put hold to the dangers that lurk beyond. I see now why I was guided here. There is much work to be done.

    Journal Entry #4

    [this entry has faded away in the passage of time… ]