3. Maya's Journal

Maya's Journal


  • Entry 69

    _Maya sits sprawled on the stones behind one of the parapets facing south into the Nars. Columns of smoke rise from the battle, curling eastward with the gentle breeze. Off and on, there is a bright light, and many seconds later the boom from a fireball reaches her ears. Several guardsmen are around her. All looks south anxiously awaiting news of the war.

    Several of the guards warily look down at Maya, who has been snappish and moody since the start of the war. Most make snide jokes out of earshot regarding the time of the month, but those that know her nature understand, and simply keep quiet.

    She begins by writing –_

    Has been several day since war start, and am stuck here on wall of city, while watch battle from great distance. Was all pack up and ready go with defender, when run into Senator. Was so excite! Then Senator ask where was going.

    I say, “To fight war!”, and pointed south.

    He say, “No…job is here”

    I remember argue some. Tell Senator that was chosen of Tempus. Is here in Nars to fight war and evils for Him. Then he point to all the guards. Say something about soldier be go to war, and is separate from guard. Say that Maya work for Barrim and can arrest like guard. Soldier cannot. Soldiers will fight war. Guards will keep peace, guard gates, and defend city from spy.

    I remember curl fist and think would be easy knock little Senator so far into next week, that would need calendar and seer with crystal ball to find, but not want spend war in jail either.

    If senator ever run for office again, think will spend entire pouch of gold for big campaign say is idiot.

    –

    Entry 70

    We win war. Yay.

    People much celebrate, but I not feel like. Instead, I spend many day inside shrine of Tempus and ask one question.

    Why?


  • Entry 68

    Have much to write about. Has been many happening since last entry in journal.

    First, I almost see Tempus yesterday. More undead come from ground in the pass, but stink on these so bad was like poison, and start to choke. Is bad to choke in battle. I try to defend self, but blow from very strong hand almost beat to ground, and could not stop choking. Was when someone come and distract was able to get away. Had to use healing drink cost much gold from Temple of Tyr and then come back and kill. I am use all gold from sell house on healing drink. Pretty soon will be gone I think.

    Person who distract was name Analya. Is tribe woman like Maya, but do not understand tongue, and she not able use trade speak. Have pendant with black lion, and remind of Uthgar tribe. Is about good as strong soldier in combat, but not match for undead, was almost die when try save Maya. Was act of great bravery, and probably save life, so I buy warrior gift and make pledge of honor to teach and protect. Analya seem understand this, so is good.

    Have spend much time in Underdark and fight many evil creatures. I fight two headed giant with Rary, and run into big problem when fight Giant Shaman. Shaman make great evil magic and fill head with vision of evil spirits and fear, and was unable to fight. Thought Rary and Maya both see gods that day!

    Also have grand adventure with Lyte. We go different direction than go with Rary, and fight hoards of Fishmen (Kuo-Toa?). Was warriors small and great, sneaky ones who hide in shadows, and even priests that make magic go away! We travel great distance and end up under Norwick, but keep going. Was great many cave, so large could not see end, but not find any more evil creatures. Was both think we run into Drow if keep going and Lyte think we explore cave unseen by many. Lyte’s nature blessings not work there, so we turn around and leave.

    Also have problem with evil Banite. Wizard name of Arikess say was hurt by Banite name Nickolai, Li, and a tattooed man. Arikess put bounty on, then Banite assassin come and kill Arikess, or hurt so bad should be dead, and warn about mess with Banite.

    I meet Banite Nickolai on hill near crossroad, same place where Arikess say was attacked. I try to bring in to Barrim for questions, and thought he go with honor, but use drink of invisible and try to run. I use special drink to see invisible, and chase, but he lose me in Underdark. Was great evil city there, and choose not approach when see ballista point at me.

    Would have been OK if he challenge to duel or go with honor to Peltarch, but now know has no honor. Was run like coward, so will be treat like coward. Next time I see will just bonk on head with axe and drag to Barrim. Citizen of Peltarch must be protect from evil while Maya on job.


  • _In a private room in the Dancing Mermaid, Maya lies unclothed on a fur covered bed. A great variety of things have been stashed in corners or lay strewn about the floor. Her axe lays on stonework next to the fire drinking it’s warmth, the runes on it glowing a soft, dull red. The armor sits in the chair, it’s mirror finish creating dancing shadows from the fireplace on the walls.

    She opens her leather bound journal with great care. Many of the pages have been torn or stained, and some stick together with drops of dried blood. She starts at the beginning, reading quietly out loud with her thick accent. There are moments of laughter, smiles, and tears as the night wears on and the pages are turned.

    Eventually, a page is turned to one unwritten. With great care and patience she dips the quill into her ink and writes –_

    Entry 67

    Has again been long time I write in this journal. Should maybe take more care make more entry, so that when die in battle Maya life will be remember. I had want to give life to son, but that was take away from. So now I have to give life to journal. Is sad though, because journal not return love.

    Crystal is gone now, or so everyone say. I cannot tell if be true, but many people who I know not hide behind words say is true, so maybe is time for rejoice.

    Maybe can be with Nathen again.

    I think about Nathen much, and how was capture by heart. Nathen is person of much good and love him much, but not know if is right person for me, or anyone be. I will have life of forever because Tempus make so, or will die in battle also because Tempus make so. If have life of forever, then cannot grow old with someone, and if die in battle will be great pain for someone. Sometime I think it best maybe that Adam die first. I have so much love for Adam that could not stand be in Hall of Heroes with grandfather and Tempus know that Adam in pain.

    Better for Maya to be in pain. Am used to.

    I think maybe will just be happy with Nathen or other man that hold Maya in heart, and see what world bring to me.

    I have long talk with Deacon other day. Deacon is merchant that some say is good, honest hard worker. Other say hide behind words and steal from people. Some even say is pirate. Is all seem like village gossip create by old woman with nothing better do, so I decide just treat Deacon like Deacon treat Maya. If be with honor, then show honor. If cheat or steal from, will just behead. Is simple really.

    Deacon say should put money I get from sell house in place where can earn money, like farm or business. Maybe is smart thing to do. Deacon is merchant after all. But think would be more fun to spend money on magic ring or great shield or something protect from evil wizard.

    I never thought would do again, but am now Peltarch citizen. Magistrate of city name Barrim Asbravn give job to hunt down undead and evil people that threaten city. He call position inquisitor, and job even pays gold for do good thing. I was thinking would not do until Barrim show me new fortress north of Peltarch. Inside was shrine to Tempus, with many words of truth and sign for honor fallen warrior. I think was sign from Tempus say, “OK, can do this”, like when get vision become Black Dragon Knight, so I say yes.

    Barrim also say is “Battle Advisor”. I worry much on this, because I just good at fight and am force for Tempus. Black Dragon Knight train much in work with team, but not know much about formation or flanking or envelopment (is big word but remember!). I will do job for Barrim as best can and hope do good in eyes of Tempus.

    Oh! I meet Johan again! It bring smile to heart when see in commons, and was so happy to work with again, even if not in same group. I invite to supper tomorrow, to drink much ale and speak of good times.

    Maya looks at what’s written, and blows gently on the page, her warm breath drying the ink. Within moments of extinguishing the lamp, she is asleep, dreaming of happier times.


  • Entry 66

    It has been long time since I write in journal. Is much stained from grease, blood and dirt, but still have many good pages left.

    I enter Jiyyd a week ago, only to fight Orcs who try to raid Jiyyd. Was great battle, and was good to fight something other than dogmen. Know that Tempus was watch, because even Orc shout his name. But Tempus give me vision that evening after fight, and was different than usual. Used to be grandfather spirit would come down in form of raven. Raven would die and give vision, and I would return raven to Tempus with fire. This time vision come in dream.

    I see great slaughter in fields where snow giant fight orc, then see another slaughter where snow giant destroy Jiyyd.

    I go to Orcs with truce to find out if maybe Shaman have vision too. I know Orc is evil, and Tempus want me fight evil, but think maybe Tempus show me vision because though snow giant in vision also shout Tempus name, was not battle. Was slaughter. Tempus is not god of slaughter. Since I hear Orc shout name of Tempus, I think maybe Orc shaman have vision. Maybe is meant Orc and Human fight snow giant together, so that there be true battle take place and not each get slaughter. I know people in Jiyyd will not see this.

    It not matter anyway. Message I give to Orc shaman was not answer. I hear rumor of great priest of Tempus name Krig also have vision.

    I not have much answer either. Am feel very lonely for first time in life. Even in slave camp, had friends of heart. Now Adam is gone. Nathen is take by crystal. I come back to crowd full of stranger. Only old friend I see recent was Uthger, but seem like fire gone from Uthger heart.

    Have not had man between furs in long time now, and arms ache to hold someone inside of heart. I not want live or die alone.


  • Interlude

    _The stillness of a winter’s day surrounds Maya, knee deep in last evening’s fallen snow. Her cloak is cut in many places, strips of fur hanging loosely. Her armor, forged in Damara and blessed, remains unmarred. The painted griffon on her shield is all but worn away, the bluish sheen of mithril catching the sun’s rays casting dancing reflections on the snow.

    The ground around her is stained in blood, the dark red contrasting against the freshly churned snow. Countless bodies of gnolls lay around her in gross caricatures of life. Pieces of some lay several feet from where they fell.

    The gnolls sought to take advantage of her moments ago, but the fresh snow had tipped the scales in the woman’s favor. Gnolls are long in the torso, but have short legs. The depth of the snow had prevented them from surrounding Maya, whose long legs had given her mobility to move away and engage opponents at will. Their failure to acknowledge this became apparent all to quickly.

    Maya looked up. The fur hood fell from her head. Her blond hair, now dark with the winter season fell in corded braids and sheaves loosely down her back. Her eyes became bluer as she stared into the sky, her arms outstretched in supplication to the powers that fueled her heart. She uttered a single word. A word usually shouted in the course of battle, but now whispered in ecstasy and longing –_

    “Tempus”


  • Entry 65

    _A tall wintry figure bundled in furs approaches Peltarch’s south gate. It drags a heavily laden sled through the packed snow some call a road. The guards pay little attention to it, as supplies are always welcome in the unusual cold weather that blankets the land. The figure drags the sled in though the south gate, the only hint of its identity consists of a thick braid with black feathers that pokes out from underneath the hood.

    The figure heads past the commons to the Dancing Mermaid, shunning travelers, guards and citizens alike. The sled is tied up near the sign, and the figure enters the smoky darkness of the inn. Once inside, snow is vigorously shaken from the cloak, and the hood is pulled back. Several braids thick with feathers, along with a mane of dirty blond hair spill out over back and shoulders.

    Maya sits down quietly, eyes glancing furtively around her. The child-like demeanor and quick smile have been replaced with skittish movements and mistrust. When the waitress come over, unbeknownst to her a strong hand grips the handle of a large axe underneath a thick furred cloak. Wary words are exchanged, and moments later a large bowl of thick soup is place in front of her. A long time passes…_

    Ink finally unfrozen again, so I can make words in journal. It has been long time since write here.

    Maya pages through a couple of previous entries, then continues…

    After Nathen was take over by crystals, I not know who trust any more. I see names on gate of Peltarch grow each time I come for food and supply, and then go away when Winter come. Now only person I trust is Maya.

    I take as many belongings as can for survive, and am do Tempus will. I have make camp far west of Nars, and fight dogmen each day as Tempus command. Each day I go and face many as can before must go to camp. If kill all dogmen I find, then leave camp as is. If not, I move camp different place.

    I put sign up by camp to leave alone, but some Eastlander not listen. Three come into camp. Was priest and two soldier. I tell to leave because may be crystal person. When one make comment that not matter because now know where camp is, I kill all three and put head on pike as warning to other Eastlander. Not see any more after that.

    Dogmen are not like that. After put head on pike, seem to take more interest when find. See many young ones come to face death. Some run, some fight, some die. Seem to be trial young ones go through, to go past pikes and see me. Very brave will face me in combat. Most die, but if fight with much courage will let live to learn and fight another day. Tempus would like I think.

    Vision from Tempus have change now am out in Winter Nars. Was always vision of strange thing that I must do, or puzzle. Now is vision of other things. Vision of grandfather. Vision of life in Hall of Heroes. Sometimes I think is like father say, “I am here” to comfort child. Am not sure what to make of, but make me happy.

    Camp is now very far from Peltarch, and take much time to get here. Each day camp become further away. After time, maybe not come to Peltarch. Has become hard life live in Winter out in Nars, and is much lonely. I miss friends much, but know that many are not friends any more. May look like friends, but heart is gone. If I see I will kill to bring peace to spirit and heart. Is only way I know how.

    Maya blows on the last bits of ink, then closes the journal. Pulling her hood up and cloak around her, she steps outside into the cold. Pulling the sled through the commons and back out through the gate, she disappears into the swirling snow.


  • _It is said that Maya left Jiyyd one cool evening in late Spring. She was carrying a large bundle of poles and blankets. She walked out almost wordlessly, pausing only briefly to speak with a couple of elves. Word has it that the dwarf Foilir chased after her, but little is spoken of it.

    Some thought she headed north, but the guards say she never reached Peltarch. A week later, a few signs appeared in the northwest areas of the pass. The Eastlanders, a few lone woodsmen, and members of the wolves report the occasional sightings of a campfire and a tent. The signs, which appeared around the periphery of a few acres of land simply say, “Trespassers be cut in pieces”

    A few weeks later, the remains of those who tested their maker are put on pikes near the signs. Eastlanders and Gnolls mostly, though it is said the head of an ogre was spotted on a tall pike on the western side of the lands.

    As Spring wears on into Summer, the sightings of the campfire continue in a westerly fashion and become less frequent. The signs appear left forgotten, the grisly remains of trespassers decayed to bones and picked over by birds.

    It is later said young Gnoll warriors, eager to prove their mettle to their elders often take trips past pikes topped with heads of their kind as a right of passage. Little more is known, other than that the pikes always seem to be topped with the freshly slain.

    As Summer reaches its peak, the sightings of the campfire cease, and all is forgotten. Rumor has it that she was spotted in the Peltarch market that Summer, trying to sell Gnoll axes for supplies. Apparently there was some sort of argument between her and the guards, and she was not seen again._


  • Entry 64

    Where even begin?

    Dogmen take over Gypsy camp. They summon many demon, shout SHOOSUVA, and kill everything. Kara and I try to defend best as can, but must retreat. Camp is no longer, and is full of dogmen. Sometimes I go there to fight them as Tempus tell, but is like try to clear forest with one person and one axe. Is just too many to take care of alone.

    Also find out that Norwick overrun! Was in Peltarch try find Zyphlin, and hear of people who belong to crystal take over Norwick. Was many people I once call friend, including Kara and Jarek. Am not sure I understand what go on, but crystal grow all over Nars now. Many tell me that crystals have powerful magic like evil wizard, and can take over thoughts of others. So I not blame them when have to kill.

    This means I am no longer captain. I move to Jiyyd back to house, and week later Nathen move in too. He quit Cerulean (thank you Nathen help spell) Knight and become squire of Mariston to god of duty name Torm. I is very proud of him, and also glad bed is warm again.

    What else? Oh, Muse come and visit Maya, and want ring back. After talk with Meril and friend Eluriel (not know how spell name), we decide Muse ring take over Zyphlin like Adam. So now Muse want ring back and going to hunt Zyphlin down. I fear friend will be lost, because this time not have lantern of sun god. I hope Muse take ring back. If not, am going to do Zyphlin big favor and cut hand off.

    Is so many things happen that I feel lost. Is like when was young, and run from slave wagon. I belong to no place. Chief of Heyokarr tribe is maybe not chief. Uthger say is chief, but is on trial in Jiyyd for kill someone. I think of join legion but am not sure of. I not think Tempus would like much I join Divine Shield. I just not know what to do, or where I belong.

    I make much prayer to Tempus now for guidance. I look at self in mirror, and while see others change, I do not. Even great wound where large orc warrior hit below ribs is gone. I would never know was there, except for memory and have to fix armor. Only thing remain is scar from be slave. I wonder if am supposed to go through world forever until Tempus call, fight battle after battle, make pleasures when can, and walk through life as world pass by.

    Maya dots the period at the end of the last sentence, and closes the journal with care. Nathen stirs a bit when she climbs out of bed, but murmurs himself back to sleep. A few strides takes her over in front of the full length mirror, where she gazes at herself at length. There are many questions she has, but Tempus is not answering. Not tonight.


  • Entry 63

    I have been try to write better. Jore sat with me and has been teach me when to use “me” and “I” instead of name in trade speak. When writing, I can work slow and think about. When speak, am so used to saying name that is hard for me. My Damaran is getting better too.

    I speak to Barrim again. I have not heard from Senate, and have not heard about Zyphlin. I tell Barrim what will happen if Peltarch Laws do not work. I hope he understand.

    Being captain is sometimes hard. Kiera put collars on prisoner and I have to make take off, and Jarek was Uthgor start trouble with Eastlanders. I thought I need more commons sense!

    Am so tired. So, so tired. Have gone out twice with Grag to fight the Saurus. Jandor says that treaty is “null and void”, which mean “is gone” Jore say, so I am having liberties to fight them. Has been a long time swing so often that axe arm become tired, but was so many that once bodies around me (Maya is crossed out) that was up to hips. Came also very close to see Tempus forever, when get trapped behind line of lizards.

    Then few days later, orcs attack Jiyyd. Tempus was on both sides that day, and fight was very bloody. I have to retreat to safe area in Silver Valley where they setup healing station for badly wounded. Was fighting two great orc warriors, and they get best of me with well place hits. Shield arm become numb, and now blacksmith is repair armor.

    I pray much to Tempus last night, and thank him for choose me to be his champion here. Not have good sleep, and have dream of terrible foe that I must face. There will be much glory in this fight, but also much chance of see Tempus forever. Whatever happen, I know Tempus will be watch. I will do best to make him proud of me.


  • Entry 62

    I wait in Bard College in Peltarch for long time today, hope to catch Zyphlin by surprise. Did not see though. I almost lose temper in commons too. Am so angry when think about what Zyphlin do! Was all I could do from hit Clandra in face with gauntlet. Get arrest not solve anything though, so travel to Gypsy camp to get fresh air.

    Was many people around the fire, and was good to relax. Uthger show up too, and have no good words to say about Uthger now Jarek. Uthger claim is chief, and that Uthgor stole name and position. Think there should be duel. Winner is chief.

    I think about get very drunk and get silly, but have to go back and patrol Norwick, and need some sleep.

    When by fire, I also think much about what Mirk say to me. I not make decision so is all I will write here now.


  • Entry 59

    Was in Jiyyd other day when orc attack come. They put ladder on walls and send many over into Jiyyd. It was pretty good battle, with many scout, many archer, and many heavy orc soldiers. I could almost see Tempus smile during battle when we all fight brave and defeat the orcs. After defend Jiyyd was successful, large group of us search plains for catapult. After much searching we find, and wizard lady make big ball of fire and destroy after kill crew. Then strange thing happen.

    Group of us start walk back to Jiyyd in plains south of village, and spy couple straggler. We kill. But then others of group start hunt down more straggler, all over plains. It was no longer battle, it was murder. I walk away from this. Tempus want battle. Murder is for evil god, like Bane and Cyric.

    –

    Entry 60

    Nathen give me so many roses today that not know what to do with! Was so sweet, and make Maya feel like woman instead of captain of militia. I take all rose, make wreath, and put on head. Nathen spend rest of day staring at. Made Maya feel warm inside.

    I miss great battle with dogmen at Gypsy camp. Is terrible shame. Hear so many have die. Maya should have been there to help. I know Tempus want to kill as many dogmen as can.

    –

    Entry 61

    The handwriting is heavy and thick, as if the quill were pressed in great force.

    So much happen today that no know where to begin. Day start off good when run into old friend Uthger! We go back to Boarshead and talk about how much trouble he in and have many laugh. Chancellor Mecc come and give Maya militia pay, and then Uthger and Maya walk toward Gypsy camp to fight dogmen. Then vision happen

    Was strange vision. I see two panther made of silver metal. Then big lion come, strong and powerful, and stand between panther. Panther guard, but sneaky shadowy thing come up from behind and kill lion. Many see later that lion is dead, and all blame panthers for kill. Panthers slink off.

    After speak with Uthger, think maybe was Jandor, and shadow thing was assassin. Panthers be Maya and Mecc, or maybe Maya and Lucius. We run back town and warn, but Jandor not take serious. I wish Tempus would speak plain. I think Tempus think I smarter than I think is.

    Then run into Zyphlin in Norwick. He ask Maya if is “part of collective”, but I not even know what mean. Ask if I touch crystal, but have only heard of. Never even see. Then shadows go around Zyphlin.

    I have seen before, and first thing think of is maybe he was shadowy thing in vision, but he run out of town, say is not safe, and say is ring. Same ring Maya let borrow. Ring once belong to Adam. The Muse.

    I ask for back. I ask many time to give, but each time he make excuse, say is dangerous for Maya and Norwick. Is funny, because it never behave bad or make shadows for Maya … ever. I tell this, but he not believe. Then he make magic not see, and run … with Maya ring.

    Is not for Zyphlin to decide. RING BELONG TO MAYA, NOT ZYPHLIN!!! I make report in Norwick, then go to Peltarch. I will try handle Peltarch way. If not work, will resign from be captain of Norwick and not be citizen, because Maya not want bring dishonor and stain of blood on Norwick for what Maya do next.


  • Entry 58

    Nathen tell good story to me by gypsy fire yesterday. Was story of duel between Wizard Ro and Nathen. Was much fun to listen to as he describe each magic and each attack, and when win in end. Nathen say had another duel later, and was tie.

    Lead of defenders of Gypsy camp name Tero was there too. Earlier, pick fight with Nico, and make threats to Meril. Nathen try go talk with, but not go well. Think is bully with chip on shoulder. Someone should take down a peg I think. Is one of best warriors Maya seen though, so maybe full of self for reason. I remember saying from grandfather - Is great to have strength of giant, but is not good to use it like one. I wish was wise like grandfather.

    Was great day of victory for Tempus too! We march on dog men to find portal. Was many, many dogmen, and some were great warriors, but many fall to Maya’s axe. Meril, Merin, Nathen, Mingal, Sierra, and Nico there too, and all use sword, bow and magic for great victory. Was even many demon I think part of SHOOSUVA. All those fall before us too.

    Today I made great prayer to Tempus, and hope that I do right in his name.


  • Entry 57

    I have been neglecting journal. Is first time I pick up in long time. Last entry is about fight Zargothis, and this seem like so long ago. So many things happen since then. I try to write them all down in one entry and make sense of them.

    Many of Heyokarr tribe have try to teach me Damaran. Is language of tribe and many people here. It help some that I spend so much time in Damara and listen to language much, but is still hard for me. I wish was smart like Adam or Zyphlin, and could learn to speak many tongues like they do.

    Order finally come from Nico Black. I ask him sell Adam harp for me and use money find good armor. I suggest maybe Damara, as king was good friend of Adam. He was able sell harp, and king have armor made for me. Already have clothing size so was easy I guess. But merchant get ambush by giants on way to Peltarch on long road, and have to go rescue. Was long hard trip but many come with to help and rescue merchant including Kara and Nate. We fight many giant along the way and come to town be siege by giants. Merchants there inside of town. Was only able to escape because witch sacrifice life to use magic get us free

    I look at above writing and is so short for great adventure. Was very much snow on journey, and most giants we fight live in cold and snow. We fight many wolves and giants, and have to laugh but hardest fight was be ambush by sneaky and much experience goblin with many arrows. Fight so many giants was great honor in name of Tempus. Kara is good warrior. Not as tall or strong as Maya but is more experience and defend better. Together we able to defeat many. I even see Tempus once, and Nate say was much lightning, but I remember little other than speak to. I will not write much of, because my simple words cannot do honor to him.

    Armor is very different than what used to. Think not protect as good as Black Dragon armor against mace because is so light, but have many clever angle and have finish like mirror or still pool of water. Arrow and spear cannot find purchase and always seem slide off. Mirror finish also good at distract enemy I notice.

    Have been more dogmen come with magic portals now, and Tempus give many visions about stars that fall from sky and word SHOOSUVA. Tempus is very displease with dogmen, and want to make sure dogmen understand this by send champion to fight them. He send me many vision to tell others, so that dogmen can be defeat. I spend much time in Gypsy camp so be there when needed to fight them.

    I have very strange day few days ago. Just cannot remember. Is like day that wasn’t. People say I do things, but not remember anything of. Think maybe someone do witchery on, but wish knew who so could cut in half.

    Was rumor in Peltarch that Nathen was dead, and I spend much time looking for but cannot find. I ask Tempus for vision of Nathen death, but Tempus was silent. I spend whole month look for and was about give up, when he just show up in Norwick one day. I hug very tight and hold close for long time and was like never gone.


  • Entry 56

    I not write any of battle with Evil Knight. Tempus want me to be example, so should put in words so when die and go to hall of heroes, others can read. Is not boast, because journal only for me until die.

    I was wander in Nars and see woman in trance with many who follow. When find cave in Nars, many demon appear. Was good thing was there I think because demon was much evil and need me to kill. After kill all demon though, Evil Knight show up.

    I remember last time face evil knight. I almost kill, but was knock unconscious along with Talgrath and many other. But now is different. I have knights’ training and blessing of Tempus. Evil Knight have evil grin and ask if I feel lucky. Would attack right away but many friend there, and not want to see many friend die. I know Evil Knight is dangerous. So I ask all to leave, so can face Evil Knight in duel.

    Was Nathen, Meril and others. They not leave. They look at me and say will stand beside. It bring heart to my throat, and make me proud have friends like this. Then Evil Knight see friend stay, and summon evil undead thing. When evil undead thing appear, I ask Tempus to bless axe. When evil undead thing make magic fire, is time decide to attack. I shout Tempus name and charge.

    World become slow for me. I remember when Adam do, and make easy to duck blows. I think Meril or Nathen do this time. Is great bard trick. Evil undead thing try to defend self, but fall quickly to axe bless by Tempus. Evil Knight is sneaky in mean time though and slash under arm while face undead thing. Is now time to face Evil Knight.

    Evil Knight is good swordsman, and I cannot face before. Think now is good time go to Hall of Heroes. Friends fight beside, and I know Tempus watch. But things different now.

    I have knight training from Johan and Koreth. Tempus has bless me, and Jore teach great trick turn and make backhand swing. I make feint to swing at leg to make shield lower, then try back swing over shield Jore teach. Axe come down and bite deep through armor. I was reward with cry of anger from Evil Knight and think maybe…maybe….

    …This time Maya win.

    Friends distract. One person duck into combat and try help, but Evil Knight swing and almost kill him one blow. But Evil Knight look slow to Maya, and pretty soon Evil Knight cut in so many places I wonder how stay together. Finally take shield and pin to wall and slash hard and close. Evil Knight gurgle and fall.

    I shout Tempus name again! Is great victory! I spit and lean over, look at Evil Knight eyes stare up to nothing. I lick finger and make pretend chalk mark in air and say, “Tempus win. Evil god lose”. Then go to behead….and Evil Knight gone. Just disappear into red circle of mist and vanish.

    Is pity. Have vision of put head on gate of Norwick. Make evil think twice about come in. Meril say name of Evil Knight was Zargothis

    So we walk home. Was tired and hurt. Was going to go Mermaid and celebrate life much….But hear evil laugh instead. I look up and see Zargothis on hill, as if Maya never kill. How can be? Zargothis then summon so many demon that Maya cannot count. I yell for friend to retreat. Tempus about smart battle, not die stupid.

    Some retreat. Some not. Many friend die. Was able to bring back with Daisy help, but while Maya win first battle, Evil god winning war.

    I think about this much, and pray to Tempus for answer. How can Maya defeat Zargothis if cannot kill?

    Before stand beside Tempus and grandfather in Hall of Heroes, would like to have answer. Tempus must win. Evil god must lose.


  • Entry 55

    _The fireplace burns hot in Maya’s room, radiating heat over her semi-clothed form. She lies on a pile of furs on her stomach, a plate of meat and cheese on her left. In front of her lies her journal, a small oil lamp illuminating its worn pages. She puts the quill down to write, stops, and tries again before lifting the quill off the page and scratching her head. Finally with a sigh she pushes the journal away and puts her chin on her hands. Her hair still partially braided, her gaze follows the outline of her newest feather before turning her head to stare at her axe, which lies next to the fireplace drinking its warmth. Absently, she plays with the chain bound gold ring around her neck. Finally her eyes drift closed, and sleep takes hold of her.

    She dreams of many things which will not be remembered come morning. She dreams of Rhajin, the man who helped her in the slave camp. In this dream, she wonders whether he is still alive after all this time. She dreams of Roubanes and Anakore, of Sam and Zyphlin, of adventure grand and small. She dreams of Adam, of happier times when he would lie next to her, and whisper stories until she slept. In her dream she also dreams of places far away, of cities of wizards and battles grand, much like the stories Adam told. She dreams of Nathen, of adventures unwritten and untold, and of tall grassy fields that hide a barbarian’s passion.

    After a time, the fire in it’s steady decline turns cold, the axe having drank the last of it. Maya absently pulls a fur over her and the journal, now forgotten in the night, is pushed to the side. The lamp continues to illuminate the journal, but it too turns cold. The light flickers briefly in a last gasp for existence, revealing the one word that languishes on the page before the darkness hides it…_

    Love.


  • Entry 54

    It has been few days now I learn from Jore, and am sore in many places. Is not easy to fight when cannot see! Also, Jore show me good trick to reverse swing on one handed axe that I do not know before. Maybe if lucky, can catch enemy by surprise.

    I think much on Jore teaching me, and look at young warriors. Some have father who can teach, but many do not and just learn from each other. I can see where one will not do right, and will teach others to not do right too. So I decide to talk to fathers and mothers of young warriors, and offer to take them on goblin raid. It will be good to learn, and I will be there in case too much trouble come.

    I travel north yesterday, and speak to Eastlanders. It seem was large undead attack, probably from evil wizard. After I go more north, was group of people look for more undead. I was going to go with them. Tempus has given me a great gift to fight undead. But group had been marked by Eastlander as enemy. Eastlander warrior sneak in and almost kill two people Maya know, and was force to step in and defend friends. I make oath to not attack because Norwick has treaty, but will defend. Eastlander should know have treaty with Norwick and me.


  • Entry 53

    I speak to Jore today about problem people come into town invisible. Jore look at me and laugh, but then see am serious. Then Jore say meet by north wall after Maya rounds and duty done.

    When meet, he have two big stick and heavy sack. I look at funny but then he put sack over head so can see nothing. Then he say to listen, and swing stick through air. Then he walk around and tell listen to footsteps and grass while swing stick. Then he tell Maya get out shield.

    Can hear footstep, and can hear swing of stick, then feel stick hit shield. He do over and over again. He run around behind, and make me turn and try block stick with shield. Was so much fun that time go by fast and he say is done. He say that sometime, people use eye too much when fight, and sometime need learn fight when cannot see.

    He say will see me tomorrow same time.

    Wish had know Jore when young. Would have been great honor fight with on field of battle. I know is great honor learn from him now.


  • Entry 52

    Tempus choose Maya

    I write above words and look at. Words not enough. I cannot write in word what feel. I cannot write in word what honor was given. I not have words to write what happen. Is more than words. I could write pages describe what happen, but would dishonor.

    Maybe priest of Tempus understand.


  • Entry 51

    Not make journal entry long time. Is too busy with militia papers to want to write for self. Rando papers all mix up but will say have good handwriting. Is easy to read.

    It seem both mountain person not much happy with me be captain. Foilir, who make me laugh much just quit, and have words with Maythor. Maythor not like much that was Black Dragon Knight and come down with Koreth long time ago. I try explain that was Maya duty then, and is important to do duty and keep oath. Now I make oath to Jandor to protect family and people of Norwick, and will keep oath here too. I hope Maythor understand this. If not and he leave, have to hire more militia. Have to hire one more anyway though. Norwick is begin be busy. Even see Kanen Knight here yesterday.

    Am so angry at Wizard Ro. He change self into monster, then run through town and scare villager. I try to make stop, but then duck into Boarshead and make self invisible. When say he under arrest for cause trouble, he say not want to be and taunt…then leave. So now not only have to put on report, but must put out order for arrest. Cause trouble was little fine. Resist arrest be big fine. Add together make even bigger. Is like spoiled child who need discipline.

    Now is busy work with militia and Jandor make law and punishment better in Norwick. Much law is silly in Norwick. Not even allow person with pet bird. Will fix. First tell militia not use jail so much, and make person work for Norwick instead. Maybe help Fine with farm or carry grain for Waldt. Not even have jail in Griffon tribe. Should only be good for cool off or hold evil wizard.

    Come up with good idea what do when break law. Will make punish fit law better. If steal, must pay back double, or maybe cut hand off if keep steal. If refuse disarm, then will take weapon. If attack militia, then lose weapon, armor, and pay fine. Think is better than jail. Think warrior cause much less trouble if know lose thing he use to cause trouble. Warrior take pride in weapon, and not want lose pride. Will also make all crime public and announce in Norwick so everyone know who troublemaker is.

    People best learn settle fight with fist now that I captain. I understand need fight, and sometimes person need good punch in nose. Wizard Ro be one. Maybe with mail gauntlet.


  • Entry 50

    Is nice round number for important entry. I become Captain of Norwick Militia. Is position of great honor and responsibility, and was proud to accept. I hope people of Norwick be proud have Maya be captain too.

    Last night start go through many paper Rando leave behind, try to figure out who in militia and who not. Papers out of date and be big mess, but many still make regular report, which be good. Still, think it would be good have big meeting and make roll call. Need to find out who really here. When Jandor say even he not know who in militia, I try not to laugh.

    Have to meet with Chancellor soon. Here is back in Norwick after be gone for few month. Jandor say is Shaman with dark past, but can trust. Will be work with him much I think.

    Nathen come by with big grin and “I told you so” face. He always kept say that Jandor make me captain, but I not believe. We sit on rock and talk for much, then have to rescue little wizard who get in trouble with Goblin soldier. Winged wizard pet come in town and ask for help. Was going to shoo out (is law) but just in town to ask save wizard life, so was OK.

    Is glad Johan help make keep journal. Is good practice for all papers have to write when be captain.