My Mother always placed a lot of importance on making the bed. It was a ritual she started with me when I was very young. She would wake me before the sun rose, placing one hand on my chest and shaking me gently until my eyes would open. She would tell me that the day was waiting for me to get up so that the sun could shine. I remember always being happy to see my Mother, no matter what adventurous dreams I might have been having… and she tells me that when I was very small, my eyes would fly open and I would say, “There you are!” As if I had misplaced her while I slept.

I would get up, stretch to the very edges of my toes and then help her make my bed. She would take one side of the covers giving my gentle instructions, “Pull the covers tight, Raffe. You must tuck away your dreams for another night and not let any of them escape before they come true.” When they were pulled tight and smooth, we would tuck them in, and then she would turn my pillow, smoothing it out as well.

When I got older, she stopped helping make my bed… but when she would wake me, she always said, “Tuck them away safely, Raffe,” as she headed back into the kitchen for breakfast. And I always knew what she meant.

Now when I wake before the sun rises, I pull my covers right and tuck them around Haleth… so that none of her dreams can escape before they have a chance to come true. Sometimes as I am leaving, I hear a little whisper in the back of my head, “Tuck them away safely, Raffe.” … and I do, I always do.

The days have passed quickly and I have been keeping myself rather busy in my quest to pilfer all the string those nasty gremlins keep held in the Mountains. Of course, I had almost forgotten that the gremlins in that old tree south of Dundee keep it as well! So, when I tired of harrassing the gremlins personally, and its time for a bit of ale... I search the merchants of Dundee for any string that other adventures have gathered and sold there.

It seems, that I am able to collect more string while in the Inn than while hunting - and much quicker! I have mentioned on a few occasions that I needed some string and if someone had spare that I would buy it from them. This eventually turned into a 1p bounty for string, meant really for the initiates in the area. No less than half a dozen have taken up the cause! It is rather amusing and keeps them well motivated to their training. Most ask why I would pay so much for a useless thing and I suppose I give them answers in varying degrees, but it all truly echos one sentiment. I would give anything to make Haleth happy... and if string makes her happy, then she shall have it in abundance. Although I know its not really the string at the root of her happiness and I know it is more for the purpose than the actual item. I also know that most initiates will do anything for a plat! I remember being a poor initiate and scrounging as many kills for pelts and the like, to get enough gold for some new armor. A few plat goes a very long way toward potions and armor. This way they feel like they are earning it at least and not obligated to charity.

Well, since being in the Inn the last few days there have been some strange occurences. The first was a visit from Azerphael.. and I am so bad with names, I hope that is right... it seems many would not recognize that name, but he is a very powerful enchanter from Ryndall. A messanger from the Council, I believe, but it is really hard to say. He spoke of Ethucan and the malady that afflicts enchanters of that land. By his words, Ethucan does seem to be a place an enchanter would not want to be! His visit was brief and Ixon did most of the talking... being the most experienced and knowledgable of us that were present, I think it was appropriate. Aaronar wanted to discuss his findings in detail, but it did not seem that Azerphael had or wanted to spend much time there. It did bring up an brief, but interesting debate between myself and Aaronar: Would you give up your soul for the chance at having god-like powers? My answer was no, of course. I am not interested in such and very happy with the state of my soul at the present time. However, Aaronar was unsure... unsure of what price he would pay for untold power - power such as "creating time" It would be nice to finish that discussion one day. Left in its current state there is much unsaid and neither one of us had the time to go into our reasonings... so, his uncertainty can be expected (he is an enchanter afterall and magic is their way and means). Still, it strikes me as odd.

After Azerphael left the ghost of Shania Deciet showed up following the incarnation of her tormentor. A most disturbing sight! However, it was shortly followed by Lord Ben and his mighty Stick of Banishment. I had never seen an Ultimate Smiting up close before... very exciting and astonishing feat!! our Gods really do love us and take care of us. That was certainly one reassuring display of their protective nature.

Yesterday, I was having a rather rowdy conversation with Wallace and Remy (which is nothing new, since our conversations tend to get rowdy and a lot of ale sloshing happens). It seems that Gorvan the Warrior, whom I had seen in Milltown on occasion, showed up. But We neither saw nor heard him about before the Goddess Carol admonished us for our rudeness in not speaking to Gorvan and whisked him away home. I suppose that is what happens when you sit around counting your strings and not pay attention to who is coming and going.

Although Earlen swears a warroir can "sense" when another warrior is near. Wallace and I tried to confirm the theory, but all he could confirm was his sense of smell... and knew that I was near because he could smell string. Topaz happened through and she gave us... the look. You know, that "You have had too much ale to make sense" look. Remy got a pretty good laugh out of it and I was laughing so hard that Earlen was sensing all the near by warriors with his "strong heart" that I almost choked! I think we settled on warriors have Scents...

I have been checking the merchants around Dundee pretty regularly for string, even Jeffrey - although I must say I recieved a distasteful frown from him when he noticed my hand in his pocket. Just being thorough. I did settle for an ale and returned to my seat. However, not much later Jeffrey must have unravelled a bit because he left a piece of string on the bar for me. What a nice guy! It immediately went into my collection. My very oversized collection that I need to deliver to Haleth soon! It has been very nice to see so many of my friends contibuting the string collection while I slept and I know there are a few that are holding strings for me that I should go retrieve very soon.

I have filled my days with many adventures, too many to fit into these pages. Most of them I recount for Haleth but often wish she could be there with me for every step. In many ways she is. She is always on my mind, constantly in my heart and her name is never far from my lips.

I should get back to farming. I finally purchased my armor for when I advance soon... between that and paying those initiates for their string, I am broke again. Oh, more toil.

Perhaps Haleth will awaken soon.. there is so much more I would love to tell her!

She is my enduring strength and greatest weakness. She is my guiding light that will always call me home. She has seen me at my worst and brings out my best. I have never been so completed, never so undone. I never felt so much love for or from another person. And now, my Haleth.. my wonderful, beautiful, lovely Haleth will soon be my wife. She told me my days of freedom are numbered, and I tell her I am never more free than with her.

There are still details to discuss and much to be decided upon. I am afraid that I have not yet managed to get passed the elation at the very postive prospect of being her bondmate. There is still no rush and things should unfold from here with careful planning and preparation. We have forever, afterall, and I want the day of our bonding to be the most perfect day ever conceived.

I have been spending my time today ferretting Mountain Gremlins from the Mines. I know that they are really no match for me, but they often carry string from the clothes of adventurers they have pilfered. Gremlins ruin everything... as is evident from the remains of the mining camp. It is rather entertaining, I suppose in a sort of twisted way, to see what each little beastie is carrying. It is always nice when they reward me with string - string precious to so few, but most importantly... precious to Haleth. I think my pack is almost half full right now, but I plan on filling the rest of it before she awakens again. So, I had better not dally here for too long!

I wonder what Fleur has been doing these many days. I really miss her since she has been set to her training... and is no longer there, smiling back at me when I walk into the Inn.

Oh! Hacken will be pleased - I have a lightneing canister.. incase some renovating needs to be done at the AVE Guildhall. I will have to let him know to send me the bill.

Back to the Hunting of String!
It may seem like a trivial thing
But for just one of her smiles
I would walk a hundred miles
In search of rare treasures to bring!

It may be true what they say.... I am feeling rather silly, afterall.

I don't think they have a word for the emmense amounts happiness Haleth has given to me. The most wonderful expression I have been waiting for... for what seems like forever... a simple Yes. YES!

She said YES.

I know there there is more I should write, but my mind is scattered to the far reaches of Trinald with that one word.


Yes.

Wow, I love that woman.

If ever I have put a lifetime into a single day, it was yesterday. I think my foul temperment when I woke up was a sign of things to come... but I would never have expected what actually happened.

Demelza has died, by her own hand no less. I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear this. How? Why? She gave us no reasons and left us nothing to grasp to close these wounds except each other. I spoke with Velvet as she sobbed on my shoulder... and some understanding began to slowly break through the haze of confusion that often surrounds these types of things. I suppose these types of choices are like any. And I have been holding on to the bitter hurt left by Steelton's death for far too long. Something I had not realized until Demelza's passing. Choices. We all make choices. To live, to die, to love, to hate, to endure, to relent.... The choices are always ever only our own. So, I put away my grief, my anger, my resentment and my confusion. I choose to accept what they have done as their very own choice and must realize I would have had no possible way to change the outcome. Everything happens as it is meant or it would never happen at all.

Yesterday held so much more...
I ventured into Verthedge for the first time,(thanks to Terragor for her outstanding directions, I did not even get lost - another first! as I mentioned in my previous entry that I would. An amazing place - frightening and awe inspiring. I came to a collasped bridge that leads into a dark land, but the other shore was too far away to distinguish what was moving about on the other side. I had meant to ask around about what was north of the Forest, but just have not been in the spirits to stay at the Inns for very long. I brought back a thistle for Haleth. These flowers are unlike many other's and can be closely approximated to roses, in my opinion - for their prickly nature and beautiful blooms. As my Mother tells it, there is an interesting tale behind the Thistle. I mentioned it to Jeza, along with the promise to tell the story when I had the time to give it proper attention. I know Haleth would love to hear the story as well.

I attended the bonding between Ruby and Tygan. Edenn performed a beautiful ceremony and I doubt few others could have done much better on such short notice. The couple seemed very anxious and extremely overjoyed. I was glad to see Ruby's wish finally come true and hope the two have many, long happy days together. I also think that Thaliea should work on finding a cure for her sleeping troubles, most notably talking in her sleep. There is obviously a lot on her mind and I think so much time away from Malaky has been a burden to her. Overwhelmed hearts and minds often escape their prisons in our sleep - poor, poor Thaliea.

Those were the two large events of the day. One an ending, the other a beginning... Sprinkled through out the day was also several demon raids (one that concluded with me chewing on a demon heart - a story for another time!, a walk to Altitan, several brief visits with some very dear friends.. to which I owe most of my sanity.. and finally, the day ended with Haleth securely entangled with me as we slept.

It was a great way to end the day. I wasnt sure how Haleth would feel about me chewing on the demon heart, but she ended up getting a pretty good laugh out of it. We talked about my day and cuddled beneath the stars on the southern cliffs. Its nice the way she listens. I can get everything out of my head and nothing seems insurmountable. Sometimes.. most of the time.. she doesn't say anything but just sits there and listens quietly. I talk and talk. She patiently waits for me to make sense before asking questions or commenting. Best of all, she lets me know in her quiet, gentle way that she loves me and no matter what, or how confusing things may seem, everything really is going to be okay. Its true - everything is better when we are together.

It's been one of those days...

You know the kind where the sun seems dim and you wonder who stole your joy away while you slept. I woke up on the wrong side of the bed, I suppose. I went out of my (which to tell the truth is not all that far) to help out a couple of new initiates and an enchanter that is not all that new - and my reward was further demands for more help without a thank you. I wasn't short with them, but suddenly found myself busy elsewhere. Something was urgently calling away to... to... to something urgent. I wish I knew what it was.

So, I stolled the Kilican beaches and took my agressions out on (not so) hapless landrays. I thought about going to Midnight Beach, but I dont really have the patience to wait for a rogue to open the door. I don't know what has me so grumpy lately. I can't even sit in an Inn and enjoy an ale without feeling cynical or critical of those around me.

I think I will go into Verthedge Forest for a few days. Maybe I have been spending too much time in the towns and too much time in the Inns, as several have suggested to me lately. I doubt anything in the Forest will mind if I am a bit grumpy. I will let my sword do the talking for awhile and give my mind a rest.

I awaken alone. My first thoughts of are of Haleth – where is she, is she safe, I should be with her instead of here.
The warmth of her love still surrounds me, her sweet song echoes in my mind. The covers still bear her shape and her scent lingers around me. All of this holds me to this place where I can close my eyes again and return to my wonderful dreams where nothing is complicated and the rest of world revolves around us. Yet, it also makes me want to rush out to find her, to hold her, and to tell her I never want to be apart.
I find a middle ground – rushing off in a flurry of half-donned armor would serve no purpose ( and most likely prove the rumor of my ever increasing foolish behavior); nor would wasting the day away with dreams that pale in comparison to how I feel when she looks at me.

Slowly, purposefully I restore my equipment as I plan for the day. Every buckle and strap a fastened piece of my resolve, a part of my plan as it comes together, until finally my armor is in place. First, I will look on Midnight Beach – she will most likely be there hunting sharks and if not there, then Kilican Isle. This time when I find her I won’t be struck silent. I will not stand mesmerized or loose myself in her eyes. I will not forget time exists when her smile radiates the only love I have ever craved in such a way. I will not melt away when she touches my hand. Today, I will speak my mind… I will say everything plainly and clearly…

I have started rehearsing in my head already and when I find her the words will be cut as fine gems to be laid at her feet. I am sure it will all work out perfectly – as planned, as prepared for.

Until I see her, until my heart is swept away in this overflowing of emotions and I am undone….
Completely, hopelessly, joyfully, lost in love.

Adrienne was the prettiest girl in town, the miller’s daughter, and couple of years older than me. She was the first girl I really had these kinds of feeling for – my first crush.

I was walking beside the lake, holding Adrienne’s hand. It was warm and there was a nice breeze coming off of the water. Her hand was so soft and a slight squeeze from her sent the butterflies in my stomach into frenzy. I could feel my face ache with the permanence of the smile that she put there. I had to brush some of the leaves of a low hanging branch out of our way as we walked and my arm was still hanging in the air as she ducked under ahead of me. It was then that I heard the jeering laughter before I was jerked backwards by my shoulders and my knees kicked out from under me. Her hand was torn from mine as I was knocked to the ground. I could hear her shriek and I scrambled to my feet, only to be met by a hard boot in my ribs that sent me back to the ground.
“You’re lover boy ain’t so tough now, is he?” I knew that voice and the echoing laughter of at least three others that followed.
“Stop it! Leave him alone!” she cried out. I could hear scuffling as I forced my eyes open and tried to see through the unbidden tears.
“Oh, Raffey… Did you hear that?” More laughing, but none of it joyful. It was the kind of hollow, sadistic laugh you that makes you cringe to even think about. “She wants us to leave you alone,” Then I could tell the voice was no longer aimed at me as it turned to her. “I am sure we can arrange that.”
I could see my tormentor, the older bully that had given me my first bloodied nose and enjoyed making a mockery of my name… of me at any chance that came his way. Three of his lackeys has joined him, one I could see clutching Adrienne’s arms behind her and the other two I knew were standing over me; waiting for me to move so they would have another excuse to pummel me – not that they really needed one.
The leader of this gang walked over to Adrienne, leering at her as you might see a wolf watch at an injured lamb. He touched her face and she flinched, and then spat on him, violently twisting to get out of the grip of the one that held her. I could hear the others give a low ooohhh… as they were sure that his retaliation would be a good show.
“Don’t touch me, Antone, you pig!” She barely got the words out before Antone’s hand silenced her with a backhanded slap that knocked her back against the one she had just escaped.
My blood was boiling and I was not on fully on my feet before the two standing over me reminded me they were there. One grabbed a fist full of my hair, yanking me back once again as the other slammed his fist into my throat. I could feel the world ending in that moment as I just knew I would never be able to breathe again. Bright lights flashed before my eyes as the pain collided with my mind. Gasping and choking, I clutched at my throat in a vain attempt to force air back into my lungs. I could barely hear them speaking again over my own useless gulping for air, but could not concentrate on the words in the sudden panic that the end of my life was at hand.
There was another exchange between Antone and Adrienne that I was barely aware of in those few moments as I fought the panic away and tried to get my breath back. Just as I was focusing once more and the clench of throat had released enough to provide air once more, I realized Adrienne was kneeling next to me and my two attackers had moved away. The others were walking away now, laughing and talking amongst themselves – no doubt about how easily I was defeated.
They had not gone far and I had not bothered to try to stand yet when Antone called back, “She’s a much better kisser than her sister, Raffey… You should give it a try sometime,” Antone paused to laugh, “Maybe she will be as nice to you as she was to me.” This roused louder hoots and laughs from the rest of them… which faded as they continued down the lakeshore away from us.

I gave Adrienne a pained, inquisitive look as I wiped the tears from my face; only managing a weak cough as I tried to speak. She would not meet my eyes and shook her head slowly, placing her hand over mine. I could see her cheek was bright red and would soon bear the purple mark of Antone’s hand. Her lips were also swollen and bruised. As if she could feel my eyes inspecting her face, Adrienne raised a shaking hand to cover her mouth. I think my stare was too much for her to tolerate, because I had not finished sorting out the meaning of it all before she was running home, crying.



I had not thought about that day by the lake in a long time. I started thinking about it when Edenn called me Raffey. I hate being called that. Of course she wouldn’t know that… and I do not hold it against her. I was just fourteen or fifteen then and I think that was the day I decided I wanted to be a great warrior. I would grow up and be able to protect myself, protect those I cared about. I would be famous for my skills in battle and earn unmatched glory on the battlefield… and of course, I would show Antone what it felt like to be pushed around. That was the thinking of a boy who had not ventured far from his home. I am not even sure whatever became of Antone, but I no longer want revenge.

Now, I still desire to continue my training to become one of the greatest warriors in all of Trinald – but I also hunger for peaceful times. I want more time to spend with Haleth and not have to worry about anything else or rush off to defend against a demon raid. I want… more than I should, I think.

I said I wasnt going to rush... and yet, I found myself in the most peculiar predicament.

Again, with my inate sense of romance steering me to start such conversations in places better suited as tombs than something like... Well, it is hard to explain exactly what happened. I mean, I could boil it down to simple terms - but that wouldnt do it justice. And worse, I don't think I was making much sense at first. But that is an impulsive side of me that is rarely seen... the stuttering, uncertainty, and retracing of steps.. like a dancer with zombie knees - I was certainly not leading the conversation well.

There has just been so much talk about it. Its something I want and I can tell it something she wants to but I think it all comes down to timing. I really just wanted to know how she felt about bonding and meant to ask about how she saw things... it wasnt supposed to exactly be a proposal - not right out. However, I heard myself saying the goofiest of things. "Would you mind being my wife?" I was quite unprepared for where my heart was suddenly taking me and my mind was quick to follow - too quick, because it left the rest of me grasping for straws.

As if.... would you mind... a phrase better suited for anything else. But she handled it gracefully, as Haleth always does. I think she knew what I was actually trying to say better than I did. It wasnt exactly no, I think because I wasnt exactly asking to.. you know.. that. It was something like, I wont say yes until you are sure. Which is closer to a maybe yes, than a maybe no I think.

I know I am going to reread this and think how crazy I sound. It has actually been days since I was able to nail down this much. I love her so much. I dont want to rush things, I dont want to lose her, and really just want to be this happy forever... and I want her to be this happy as well. When the time is right, I have a feeling everything is going to be easy... and I wont be such a bumbling idiot and she wont have to decipher my stuttering. I would not have minded really, if she had said yes... or no.. which ever would have appropriate to something like "would you mind..." How utterly foolish. I am glad she didnt run away, because I would not have blamed her for it.

As a side note, I think Cyno is going to be furious with me... maybe I can convince him it wasnt *exactly* asking... you know, that.

The dark and lonely of this world often get to me. I feel like its too much to bear, that we are fighting a losing battle, and that I will soon be all used up. Then she calls me home. A smile, a touch on my hand to say she cares, her voice laced with all the love a person could hope for... and I am strong again. I am sure we will win this war - that love is stronger than hate and all the forces of darkness would surely crumble to the powers of good and light and purity and love. I sharpen my blade, but Haleth sharpens my resolve.

There was something I saw in the Fier's that always inspired me to fight on without pause. A love so precious, yet so fierce that I was sure that it's place was assured in this world - but certainly deserved nothing but a world of peace and happiness of flourish in. Now, I see that very same fire when I look at Haleth. That same undeniable passion and unrelenting love, worth fighting for... worth dieing for... the kind you live for.

It's late now and my wounds seem trivial as I must visit the healer before my bed tonight.

The only thing I am missing is that contrary little smile to tell me that what I said can mean something entirely different than what I meant.... I love that.

Today, Haleth and I visited the trainer at the same time. Something I have always done alone until now. It was rather nice, especially to see her dance around with glee and jump into my arms for a congratulatory hug. She really does make everything better - even things I never thought would be better are much more than they were, just because she is with me.

I was also met with a very generous gift from Islander to purchase my new armor. Very unexpected and very appreciated. I would have had to farm for days to earn enough for the purchase. I cannot thank him enough. I will wear the armor with pride.

Haleth was also fit with some new armor, although it was not recently purchased. It was nice to see her finally wear the gift I bought her so long ago... before she left for her trip to far away lands. I remember wanting to buy her a gift - something spectacular, something that I would not normally be able to afford. At that time, Milfred had given her some Banded Mail and I remember being quite... um.. I think jealous would be the word, although I did not realize it at the time. I just wanted to make sure that whatever I was going to give her would replace his gift, that it would be better and last longer... and.. be better. I farmed for weeks and still ended up having a bit of help from Demelza. The armor seems rather trivial now, being just a thing... just something she will eventually out grow. But at the time I bought it - it was to be everything I could not for her. It would protect her, surround her, be there for all her victories, and provide comfort in the inevitable defeats. Now, I can do that.... but it is still nice to see her finally wear it.

The hour has grown late while I sat here in Fleur's scribbling in my journal. My bed awaits. Even better than that, I know who will be sleeping there when I do finally crawl under the covers.

I am not sure how everything suddenly spun out of control. It all started out so quietly, as I suppose all things do. I had the intent to speak with Cyno about Haleth. We are friends and he is her brother. It has been a while since we have really had a chance to sit down and talk, in fact it has not happened since before Haleth and I became involved. So, I thought it would be only appropriate that I let my intentions be known to him before he found out through the grapevine… or other inappropriate way.
I should have kept my head when he laughed, but I didn’t. I am not sure what I expected him to say, but I was ill prepared for him to minimize my feelings to that of a “crush.” His advice at first was to go have a few ales, toss some winks to the barmaids, and let them help me forget about it. He couldn’t have been serious… but he certainly seemed that way. Well, once caught off my guard and off balance from his remarks, his continued insistence that Haleth was destined to settle down with a powerful enchanter only further clouded my judgment. An enchanter – someone more suited for her, to replenish her power, to compliment her blessings. Someone like… I was sick and could barely think to speak. He spoke at length and I think it would have been more pleasant if he had just taken a whip to my back instead. Every disagreement or challenge on my part was reduced to the fact that he simply knew her better and if I really knew her as I thought, then I would agree with him.

I did not go to ask Cyno’s permission, although it would have been nice to get his blessing. However, he eventually convinced me that I should prove myself worthy. At that moment, I was not thinking straight and I foolishly agreed. The more I think about it, the more ridiculous it becomes. I am sure he is/was trying to be the protective older brother… but it is unnecessary at this point. I love Haleth and she loves me. She is the smile that covers my heart and will always be the only woman for me. As some of my closest friends reminded me, there is only person that should consider my worth as a bond mate and that is Haleth – when the time is right. That may not be now, for reasons I will not force myself to think about right now, but someday.

I just need some time to regain my confidence, steady my footing, and redress my wounds. I did speak with Haleth afterward, at least briefly. It was reassuring… she told me that he was wrong about the guild. She said she would never ask me to leave the Twenty Two. It was soothing just hold her and hear her say she loved me. However, there is still so much more to talk about. Many of Cyno’s comments raised questions I never knew existed, least of all was his comment about her being Islander’s “pack mule.”

If only I don’t bend and break.

And then there is Freablod…

By what standard is a man's dedication measured? How is strength of love compared?

Cyno's words ripped through me as no others have. If I were so dedicated, why would I not follow her in the Way? How would a bonding work kept in two households... to be together in all ways, yet not. He said she would never ask me, but that she wished it. We have never discussed the implications of belonging to different guilds - perhaps because it never occurred to me that it mattered. Its not that I never think how incredible it would be to have Haleth back with us in the Twenty Two, but she made her choice for her own reasons... and I have never questioned them. Nor have I ever, for one moment, considered leaving the Twenty Two to join her in the Way. Cyno... her brother.. he says I could not possibly be serious if I don't know her feelings on this. He was really firm in his point of view, based on conversations they have had on the matter.

I can't do it. My heart is breaking. I cannot leave my family, but I will not give up Haleth - not now, not ever.

It is too soon. There is obviously so much more we need to know about each other. Like a bird taken from the sky by a silent arrow, Cyno's revelation caught me unaware... but perhaps a little grounding is what I needed.

But does it have to hurt?

Haleth.. my wonderful, beautiful Haleth.
There is too much to say and not enough words to express it. Our relationship grows daily and sometimes I find myself reeling. I am sure of many things: most of all, I know that I love her more and more everyday.

But it seems now that the time has come for me to think about where we are going from here. There seems only one natural course of action, since we cannot logically remain adrift in this blissful sea of timelessness. Now, there remains more questions: Am I ready? Is it too soon? How would I know? What if she says no....

I don't want to rush. I don't want to pressure her. But I don't want indecision to be the doom of the best thing that has ever happened to me.

I have had a most fantastic morning!

I awoke just in time to see the last flutter of Haleth's cloak as she left to farm or train... I had to hurry to catch her, but as Clerics are not known for the fleet footedness (not sure if that is a word, but it amuses me to use it today), it didnt take long.

We decided to give the Mines another try. Its not often that both of us have a fair amount of time to train at the same time... let alone be able to spend it exploring far and away. I love exploring, but I have found that I enjoy it even more so when Haleth is with me. She has a way of making everything just right. Well, the mines are a very dismal place... even with Haleth near there is no way around that fact. Every step bears signs of doomed miners and the stale air wreaks of despair. We eventually came upon an underground river. Amazing!! The mushrooms there give off an odd sort of red light that reflects off of the ore down there, causing everything to look as if it is on fire... even the river. There are some extremely nasty beasts down there as well - and I would certainly not like to venture into those depths alone.

We made some pretty awesome discoveries and saw some things I had never imagined existed in Valorn. I can think of very few other ways I would prefer to spend my morning... and all of them include Haleth. As a trophy of our day exploring I carry with me Alabaster Gauntlets from the conquered Lord that dwells deep within.

On a lighter note:
I am glad that Korrith didn't mind me having a bit of poetic fun at his expense... although he did swear to get his revenge some day.

Jessa and I have decided to create a leaflet as a guide to the many Taverns and Inns around Valorn, and the different sorts of ales available. Its important for new adventurers to be aware of the different places to get away from the dark and dangers of this war against evil... and become well acquainted with the varying kinds of drinks! Some kind of a carrousers stategy guide... It is still in its very early stages, but we have chosen a name and I think it will come along quickly - as dedicated as we both are to our ale and Inns, I don't expect the public to have wait for too long.

Also, it seems the highlight of Valornian fashion is brightly colored boots with dashing sparklies. It is a shame the pinstripes did not take off...

My Haleth

She comes to me with love
She comes to me with light
She blesses my every morning
And warms my every night.
Her thoughts are often quiet
Sometimes never heard
But when she speaks its music
I hang on every word.
I love to watch her listen
When amusement lights her eyes
I want to catch each sparkle
Before the moment passes by.
Just to be around her
Makes me feel alive
Without my Haleth’s love
This man would not survive.

Sometimes, everything just falls into place. It's nothing that can be planned and nothing that can be repeated - and you always wish those moments can last forever.
I passed a good many marcs in Fleur's with Haleth, Topaz and Jessa... and eventually, Fleur and Ixon joined us - followed by the ever timely Korrith. I don't think I have ever had so many of my closest friends together for so long. What started as an escape from dreadful Ogres (poor Jessa was certainly having a time with them! ended up as one of those moments that really should occur more often. I had made a comment about Haleth not being able to "hold her ale." So, being a (however goofy) poetic reference.. a reciting was eventually in order. I gave in without much of a fuss and recited a poem I wrote for Haleth months ago, mostly as a jest of her changing hairstyles back then.
The spark that started the flame. Topaz sang a beautifully, heart breaking song and the Fiers both "scribbled" (their term, not mine) out very touching poems. Ixon's was called "Hero" and it was about how truly special Fleur is. Fleur's was called "Blessings" and it was about the blessings we find in those we love. Something I have always envied of them - to create such beauty so effortlessly. I also retold the comical "Zakath and the Greater Tomb Wench."
The time was far too short and it would have been splendid to spend 100 marcs talking with them all. It would have been nice to hear Korrith recite one of his poems, as well. It would have been wonderful to hear more of Topaz's works. She is so very talented and puts so much emotion into each one. Haleth also writes exquisite poetry, but we were not fortunate enough to get to hear one of hers. Its hard to describe how wonderful it was to have Haleth and my very closest friends with me. Another silver thread.

I have finally purchased my new armor - thanks to a hefty (sneaky! donation. The culprit revealed themselves.. but I cannot say I wouild have been too proud to return the money right then had I noticed. The armor is very nice, a bit heavy.. and smells of Ogre no matter what I do - but it is very effective. I am thinking of using cedar chips as Thaliea suggested or maybe ask Ruby if she knows of something that will at least temporarily dilute the stench. I will just have to take it off when I am in polite company for now. I hope it doesn't stain my shirt.

I wonder what Haleth dreams about. It may be selfish, but I hope it's me.