The tales of Terich Millomein
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The man in rags makes his way through the town, as he does every day. His body is covered with many scars, and the weariness on his face makes him appear much older than his 23 years. He does what he can for those in need; he offers food to those without, occasionally treating wounds and sickness when he can, offering and ear for those with suffering of the spirit.
Today, he makes his way to a group of children who are playing in a clear area. Sitting nearby is a boy, in his early teens, watching them with longing on his face. Terich greets the boy, asking him why he only watches. The boy points to his right leg, which is badly twisted as a result of some deformation. Stammering, the boy explains that he was born with the bad leg, which slows him up and makes him unable to run with the others. Still stammering, he tells Terich that the other children often tease him because of the way he talks.
Terich listens to the boy, patient as the boy struggles to form his words. The look on the man's face shows concern and symapthy for the child. Not used to having someone listen to him, the boy continues. As he gets more upset, his stutter gets worse. He tells Terich of his parents, who tell them how disappointed they are at this deformity. Sometimes his father, after too much drink, tells him he was a punishment from the gods. He is hardly given any food, because his parent's have little and do not want to share with him since he cannot help with the work.
The boy finishes his tale, and Terich begins to speak. "The gods do not punish us by the afflictions they give us. Sometimes their purpose is more than we can understand. You are alive, child. That is a blessing that some do not have. You may suffer, but your cries are heard by Lord Ilmater. He hears you, and he shares your burden. In your time of need, pray to him. He may not take your affliction away, but he will not let your burdens be too much for you to bear." After telling him this, Terich reaches into his tattered leather pouch and pulls out some of the dried rations he carries and gives some to the boy. The boy takes the food from Terich, unsure what to say. He stammers out a "Thank you, sir."
"You are welcome, friend, and bless you," replies the man in beggars clothing as he walks away to find others in need of his aid.