(Sorti carefully rolls the parchment pages of her journal and tucks them away in the hem of her Zorai skirt while no one is looking)
I was born in Jordheim many cycles past, a healer by profession of a long runic tradition. Fjorgynn Eirdottir was my name, a priestess of the great goddess Eir who after much strife, loss and sorrow in those lands brought me to Atys.
It started as a blizzard raged outside the walls of Svasud Faste, weary
and bloodstained from an interminable battle in the frontier, we had just returned home after saving Mollnir. As I settled myself in the keep, mourning our losses with a mug of mead by the fire, she appeared, an ethereal form, an entity of light emanating it wherever she went. She said it was time for me to leave for a new world called Atys, adding that of all the peoples of this
new land, the Fyros valued truth and honor above all else. Because of the similarity of their values to the children of Odin, I would feel most at home amongst them. She asked me to learn the ways of the Atyans and communicated she would always watch over me. I kissed my goddess' sweet alabaster hands, and as I gazed at her for the last time, she blessed me with her radiant maternal smile. A heavy slumber fell upon me.
I awoke in Silan among scores of refugees of other lands, other cultures, and other traditions. My golden tresses were now black as the night sky, with a long white streak to remind me of my golden goddess' constant blessing. My skin had taken on a desert hue, but my eyes, those Eir left the Viking blue they had always been. As I looked at my reflection in the water, I saw a stranger and yet, I saw myself, different but the same. I did not know then that this theme would manifest itself in Atys over and over again. I was now known as Sortilege, and from this new name I knew immediately that Eir wanted me to learn the ways of healing and offensive magic above all other disciplines. My first act in this new land was the vow to remain true to Eir, Odin and Thor even though my eyes would never see the snowy fjords or Midgard again.
My life in Silan was peaceful, with so many new things to discover and learn. I met many fascinating homins, and had no time to dwell on my past. I devoted myself to the new ways before me and to absorb the wisdom freely available to those who asked. I learned to craft armor, so different and yet the same. The flora and fauna of Atys seemed very strange at first. The plant life was so exotic and beautiful, so fresh and unpredictable.
At first I refused to eat, everything was unfamiliar, but hunger got the better of me one day. My dear friend Vhael was roasting mektoub steaks over an open fire. He had liberally sprinkled them with crushed caprice seeds and they smelled so wonderful. He offered me one and I ate it greedily. It tasted so juicy and good, I decided I would not think of the strangeness of the creature it came from and truly enjoyed it. Thus ended my hunger strike, and as I became more accustomed to Atys, my food apprehensions waned to nothingness.
Vhael was a tall Zorai, with a beautiful mask he wore all the time. We were inseparable in Silan and yearned to grow strong and wise so we could at last go to the mainland. One night he told me he had been approached by a recruiter for the Dragonblades. I asked him to tell me everything the recruiter said and he told me it was a wonderful Order based in the land of the Matis. He added that the Order welcomed all races and offered a very nurturing environment to refugees like us. He was seriously considering joining it. It sounded so good to me that I asked if perhaps they would consider accepting me too. He said I needed to talk to a Zorai named Kianshi and that perhaps we could both join. I remember approaching Kianshi and expressing my wish to be considered for membership along with Vhael. The invitation to join the Order came through and I was overjoyed. I had found a new home.
That night Vhael and I decided we were ready for the journey to the mainland. We both ran to the Kami teleporter and were teleported immediately. I found myself in Pyr, a majestic city of unimaginable proportions to my eyes. I gingerly began to explore it taking in the sights, sounds and smells. I loved Pyr. It was so different and new. I was supposed to find a barkeep named Lydix and as I looked for him, lost in a labyrinth of narrow cobble stoned streets I came upon a public bath house. It was empty and inviting so I allowed myself the luxury of soaking in it for a while and sleep started to claim me. I was so tired. As my eyelids closed I thought of Vhael in a city called Zora so far away. The last thing I remember before sleep overcame me was making a mental note to go off and find him first thing next morning...
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Moderators: The Soothsayer, Lanist, Xaphon Zessen
A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Last edited by vonia on Thu Nov 30, 2006 8:49 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
I awoke to a crisp clear summer morning with high clouds and blue skies. With a fierce determination to find Vhael in this illusive city called Zora, I headed to the stables to buy passage to Zorai lands. To my surprise, there were no mounts available for hire. The stable boy informed me that I should buy a mount for my trip to Zora. I nearly fainted when I learned the price of a beat up old mount. Why this is highway robbery, I told the stable boy. To which he replied, that I had two options. I could buy the mount or walk to Zora. What seemed a fortune in Silan would dwindle to nothing if I bought the mount, so I decided I could walk to Zora. Armed with a map and a few meager rations in my backpack off I went to find Zora and my friend Vhael. I did not get past the Goari near the Pyr gate. I soon found myself laying in the desert with a mouth full of sand. A very nice Tryker who just happened to be in the area revived me and when I told her of my plans, she strongly urged me to postpone the trip until I was stronger. So I hunted a while outside the gates of Pyr and when some other Dragonblades awoke, I told them of my predicament.
It was then when I met Jelathnia, a very attractive Matis warrior who was very helpful to me and whom I came to admire. She was very dedicated to the Order and it was she who helped me to get to Zora and Yrkannis. There was another new blade named Railus in Pyr at the time. He was a robust fiery Fyrosian who was also on his way to Yrkannis. After informing us of teleports, Jelathnia recommended that we always carry 2 pacts in case we forget to buy one. This lesson has served me very well; as has everything she has taught me. The three of us set out to the desert and Jelathnia showed us many places along the way. She showed us every teleporter, every respawn point, and a beautiful place in the desert called Virginia Falls. She was truly a formidable warrior and scout, who kept us safe throughout the trip. When we reached Matis lands I was awed by the beauty of the forest. The colors were so crisp the trees so delicate and the variety of vegetation so profuse they reminded me of similar elven forests I had seen in my Viking travels. When we finally reached Yrkannis, the stately capital of the Matis, she showed us the guildhall. It was a striking structure, which reminded me of the elven buildings of my other world. I immediately assumed the Matis were elves. Jela quickly corrected me. Matis are not elves. I really did not mean to offend her. As a matter of fact I have always admired the elven love of beauty and the wonders they work with nature, their structures and their style. My own mother was an elven captive, but that is another story. I accepted her correction, though deep inside I was convinced that there is some distant elven gene hidden within the Matis, but decided to guard my counsel and said nothing more.
We continued on to Zora, again I was impressed by the subtle changes in vegetation, as gradually; the land became a rainforest full of life and wonder. Zora was a strange city with very unusual structures. Vhael was not awake when we got there, so I was unable to see him. However, I was so impressed by the Zora people. They dressed so well. They were tall, svelte and classy. I loved their couture and after buying my two pacts the first thing I did was to visit the crafting trainer. I wanted to be able to make those beautiful robes someday. So I trained in Zora armor crafting and decided that light armor would be my forte. To this day, I can't pass by a Zorai marketplace and not visit their light armor merchant. I am on a first name basis with all of them and my... what luck.. I have found and purchased many beautiful things.
Jelathnia was very generous to us. The following day I was issued new light and medium armor, a practice blade, full set of jewelry, and brandy new amps all of a quality that was incredibly good. I was impressed that the Order was so generous to new recruits and I vowed to be loyal to it and help in any way I could. Each item issued to me was generously donated by a Dragonblade crafter. The members shared everything and were very helpful to each of us. Zyquo, another blade I met at that time, offered to take Vhael from Zora to Pyr and Yrkannis. They started the trip but Vhael mysteriously vanished. Zyquo waited for him for a long time but Vhael was never seen or heard of since. His loss saddens me and to this day, and I wonder what happened to him and if and when he will ever return.
Each week, on the day after Holeth, the Dragonblades had their "day out." All Dragonblades would come together at a predetermined place to practice skills. I awoke in Pyr on the first day I participated. The activity was being held near Dyron and I was invited to join. My problem was that I had no clue where Dyron was, still being so green in the mainland. Haldir, the leader of the Order, offered to pick me up in Pyr and escort me to Dyron. I had never seen Haldir before and was expecting a much older person, somewhat like the elder Jarls of Jordheim with long gray beards and Starkakedja chain armor. Instead I saw this young golden haired elven lord standing before me. (I've never told any Matis I think they are elves, Eir forbid.) I just held my counsel and said nothing while I dutifully followed him to Dyron. As we passed this gorge area infested with vile creatures, I realized that there was no way I could have gotten there by myself. When we got to Dyron, he showed me the teleporter and proceeded to take me to join the group. Haldir must have done escort duty countless times in countless places. Each time a new blade would wake up on Dragonblade day out who did not know how to get to the group, off he would go to pick them up and bring them over. In all fairness, all Dragonblades did. It was second nature; something that was just done. It was a fun experience and I met many other Dragonblades that day. Their healers, mages and warriors impressed me. They worked together like a well-oiled machine and I made a mental note that I would be a good healer someday. In the meantime, I was glad to help by keeping the real healers full of sap and had a wonderful time.
A short time after this day out, Zyquo and I became good friends, but I am so tired now that I would not do Zyq justice. I will write about him next time..
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
It was then when I met Jelathnia, a very attractive Matis warrior who was very helpful to me and whom I came to admire. She was very dedicated to the Order and it was she who helped me to get to Zora and Yrkannis. There was another new blade named Railus in Pyr at the time. He was a robust fiery Fyrosian who was also on his way to Yrkannis. After informing us of teleports, Jelathnia recommended that we always carry 2 pacts in case we forget to buy one. This lesson has served me very well; as has everything she has taught me. The three of us set out to the desert and Jelathnia showed us many places along the way. She showed us every teleporter, every respawn point, and a beautiful place in the desert called Virginia Falls. She was truly a formidable warrior and scout, who kept us safe throughout the trip. When we reached Matis lands I was awed by the beauty of the forest. The colors were so crisp the trees so delicate and the variety of vegetation so profuse they reminded me of similar elven forests I had seen in my Viking travels. When we finally reached Yrkannis, the stately capital of the Matis, she showed us the guildhall. It was a striking structure, which reminded me of the elven buildings of my other world. I immediately assumed the Matis were elves. Jela quickly corrected me. Matis are not elves. I really did not mean to offend her. As a matter of fact I have always admired the elven love of beauty and the wonders they work with nature, their structures and their style. My own mother was an elven captive, but that is another story. I accepted her correction, though deep inside I was convinced that there is some distant elven gene hidden within the Matis, but decided to guard my counsel and said nothing more.
We continued on to Zora, again I was impressed by the subtle changes in vegetation, as gradually; the land became a rainforest full of life and wonder. Zora was a strange city with very unusual structures. Vhael was not awake when we got there, so I was unable to see him. However, I was so impressed by the Zora people. They dressed so well. They were tall, svelte and classy. I loved their couture and after buying my two pacts the first thing I did was to visit the crafting trainer. I wanted to be able to make those beautiful robes someday. So I trained in Zora armor crafting and decided that light armor would be my forte. To this day, I can't pass by a Zorai marketplace and not visit their light armor merchant. I am on a first name basis with all of them and my... what luck.. I have found and purchased many beautiful things.
Jelathnia was very generous to us. The following day I was issued new light and medium armor, a practice blade, full set of jewelry, and brandy new amps all of a quality that was incredibly good. I was impressed that the Order was so generous to new recruits and I vowed to be loyal to it and help in any way I could. Each item issued to me was generously donated by a Dragonblade crafter. The members shared everything and were very helpful to each of us. Zyquo, another blade I met at that time, offered to take Vhael from Zora to Pyr and Yrkannis. They started the trip but Vhael mysteriously vanished. Zyquo waited for him for a long time but Vhael was never seen or heard of since. His loss saddens me and to this day, and I wonder what happened to him and if and when he will ever return.
Each week, on the day after Holeth, the Dragonblades had their "day out." All Dragonblades would come together at a predetermined place to practice skills. I awoke in Pyr on the first day I participated. The activity was being held near Dyron and I was invited to join. My problem was that I had no clue where Dyron was, still being so green in the mainland. Haldir, the leader of the Order, offered to pick me up in Pyr and escort me to Dyron. I had never seen Haldir before and was expecting a much older person, somewhat like the elder Jarls of Jordheim with long gray beards and Starkakedja chain armor. Instead I saw this young golden haired elven lord standing before me. (I've never told any Matis I think they are elves, Eir forbid.) I just held my counsel and said nothing while I dutifully followed him to Dyron. As we passed this gorge area infested with vile creatures, I realized that there was no way I could have gotten there by myself. When we got to Dyron, he showed me the teleporter and proceeded to take me to join the group. Haldir must have done escort duty countless times in countless places. Each time a new blade would wake up on Dragonblade day out who did not know how to get to the group, off he would go to pick them up and bring them over. In all fairness, all Dragonblades did. It was second nature; something that was just done. It was a fun experience and I met many other Dragonblades that day. Their healers, mages and warriors impressed me. They worked together like a well-oiled machine and I made a mental note that I would be a good healer someday. In the meantime, I was glad to help by keeping the real healers full of sap and had a wonderful time.
A short time after this day out, Zyquo and I became good friends, but I am so tired now that I would not do Zyq justice. I will write about him next time..
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
Last edited by vonia on Thu Nov 30, 2006 9:56 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Shortly after my first "day out," I decided that I should make Yrkannis my home. Being that the Order was headquartered there, and its Tests started there, it seemed like the logical thing to do. I soon realized that to buy an apartment, I would have to improve my relations with the Matis. I set out to accomplish this by performing tasks for the Yrkannis City Welcomer. I took on a few and was on my way to attain my goal at my own patient pace. It took several weeks to earn Matis trust in Yrkannis but I was overjoyed when the Homin Apartment Caretaker offered me an apartment. As I opened the door and entered, I was so excited to see how beautiful it was. It was spacious and tastefully decorated with a to die for closet, my own desk and a very narrow bed that although simple was very comfortable.
During this time, Zyquo and I had become very good friends. He was a chivalrous knight in my eyes, very generous with his time and always willing to answer my questions about Atys, the Matis, Dragonblades, hunting areas, etc., etc., ad infinitum. One day, I was bored hunting on my own and asked Zyquo what he was up to. He replied that he was training with his sister in Fleeting Garden and welcomed me to join them. I teleported there and that is the day I met his sister, Emberstorm.
My first impression of Ember with her heavy armor and sword was that of a beautiful elven princess. She carried herself regally, spoke with eloquence and poise but most important of all, I detected an inner beauty that matched her outward appearance. She was sweet, affectionate, compassionate, and I liked her immediately. I think she liked me too and we became good friends.
We did a lot of hunting in Fleeting Garden. We weeded, hunted kipees, jarvings and lots of creatures native to the area, as Ember trained her blades, Zyquo his offensive magic and I my healing. We became inseparable and hunted every day. Those were fun, carefree days that I remember fondly and will always treasure.
Ember went on a journey for a while, and Zyquo and I grew closer. I talked with him about everything. He was such a good listener. Always patient, always chivalrous, always a wonderful friend. He prepared me for and witnessed my first "Squire" Test and we continued hunting together. I remember the first "Pyr Bath House" party I attended. Zyquo and I went together and the bath was overflowing with tipsy blades and friends of blades. I am very shy around large groups of people in social situations. Its a trait that I try to overcome constantly but it takes me a long time to feel comfortable and express myself. Zyquo knew this instinctively, and he always helped. I found his concern endearing and began seeing him in a more "romantic" light. His behavior toward me was similar. We were good friends who started to feel attracted to eachother.
He taught me about swords, magic, healing, careplanning and I will always be grateful for his friendship and his affection but... one thing happened one day while we were teamed up that hurt me very much. It was while Zyquo was witnessing a test for gallant and i was with him in the Hall. It had nothing to do with the Order. It was personal in nature. I will not write of it here because it is something that he and I have never discussed. Our relationship continued. We still hunted together. We still hugged eachother and I loved him as a friend but I knew that I could never give my heart to him. Much later I went on a journey, he went on a journey, and when we returned a lot of things had changed for both of us.
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
During this time, Zyquo and I had become very good friends. He was a chivalrous knight in my eyes, very generous with his time and always willing to answer my questions about Atys, the Matis, Dragonblades, hunting areas, etc., etc., ad infinitum. One day, I was bored hunting on my own and asked Zyquo what he was up to. He replied that he was training with his sister in Fleeting Garden and welcomed me to join them. I teleported there and that is the day I met his sister, Emberstorm.
My first impression of Ember with her heavy armor and sword was that of a beautiful elven princess. She carried herself regally, spoke with eloquence and poise but most important of all, I detected an inner beauty that matched her outward appearance. She was sweet, affectionate, compassionate, and I liked her immediately. I think she liked me too and we became good friends.
We did a lot of hunting in Fleeting Garden. We weeded, hunted kipees, jarvings and lots of creatures native to the area, as Ember trained her blades, Zyquo his offensive magic and I my healing. We became inseparable and hunted every day. Those were fun, carefree days that I remember fondly and will always treasure.
Ember went on a journey for a while, and Zyquo and I grew closer. I talked with him about everything. He was such a good listener. Always patient, always chivalrous, always a wonderful friend. He prepared me for and witnessed my first "Squire" Test and we continued hunting together. I remember the first "Pyr Bath House" party I attended. Zyquo and I went together and the bath was overflowing with tipsy blades and friends of blades. I am very shy around large groups of people in social situations. Its a trait that I try to overcome constantly but it takes me a long time to feel comfortable and express myself. Zyquo knew this instinctively, and he always helped. I found his concern endearing and began seeing him in a more "romantic" light. His behavior toward me was similar. We were good friends who started to feel attracted to eachother.
He taught me about swords, magic, healing, careplanning and I will always be grateful for his friendship and his affection but... one thing happened one day while we were teamed up that hurt me very much. It was while Zyquo was witnessing a test for gallant and i was with him in the Hall. It had nothing to do with the Order. It was personal in nature. I will not write of it here because it is something that he and I have never discussed. Our relationship continued. We still hunted together. We still hugged eachother and I loved him as a friend but I knew that I could never give my heart to him. Much later I went on a journey, he went on a journey, and when we returned a lot of things had changed for both of us.
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
Last edited by vonia on Fri Dec 01, 2006 4:16 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
I awoke one morning and learned that the Order was in the process of conducting a trek to the land of the Trykers. I had awoken very late and missed it. My disappointment was great because I had heard of how beautiful the lakes were and how difficult it was to get there. As I walked around Yrkannis, I noticed a piece of parchment posted at the entrance of our Guild Hall. It was a notice from Haldir announcing his availability to assist any member of the Order who signed up with any pending projects, on a one on one basis. It occurred to me that perhaps Haldir could help me get to the Tryker lands sometime when he was not busy. I gingerly added my name to the list with my request. This whimsical decision would generate a major turning point in my life.
A few days later, Haldir contacted me and said he had time for a trek to Fairhaven if I was available. I so wanted to see the lakes and get a pact to Fairhaven. I thanked him and told him I was ready whenever he was. So we agreed to meet in the jungle and started our journey to the lakes.
Although Haldir and I had spoken a few times before, it had never been for long. During the trek we got to know eachother. We talked about many things and i found Haldir to be pleasant company. I liked him. I liked his view of things, I liked his reasoning and he knew so much. The trek was a lot of fun and so was getting to know him better. When we got to the lakes I was awed. It was the most beautiful place I had ever seen. Not even in my old world had I seen anything comparable. The water was so crystaline and warm as we swam to Fairhaven. The landscape was breathtaking, the plants, the creatures... I was just mesmerized taking in all the sights. Haldir would point out things along the way. He was a wonderful tour guide and I was very thankful for his kindness in spending this time with me.
When we finally reached Fairhaven, Haldir showed me the Kami and Karavan teleporters. I bought my pacts and he took me to a tower in the center of the city. He wanted me to see the sunfade. We climbed to the highest terrace and watched. The weather was clear and it was the most beautiful sunfade I had ever seen. Zyquo happened to be in Fairhaven at the time and later joined us at the terrace. Haldir then told us about a beautiful waterfall and asked if we wanted to see it. I said I definetly did so off we went swimming to the waterfall. It was absolutely stunning. We climbed to the top of it and looked at the breathtaking view below.
A while later Haldir had to rest so he left Zyquo and I at the top of the waterfall and went to build himself a leanto down below. Zyquo and I talked for a while and then my eyelids got heavy. We said goodnight and I rested.
The next day Haldir asked me if I would careplan for him while he collected materials for the Order. I told him of course. He was digging in Loria and I didnt have a pact to Heretic's Hovel. Haldir offered to trek me and after a few mishaps we finally got there. Careplanning for Haldir became a regular thing and as we worked together we became good friends. I found it difficult not to be attracted to him. I have always been attracted to brilliant men and brilliance of mind is something Haldir had plenty of. He was always such a great conversationalist. I was consistently impressed by his analysis, synthesis and evaluation of everything we discussed.
One day we stopped working early and he took me to a secret cave. A cave with a wide cavity in its ceiling where you could see the sky. We sat very close to eachother to watch the sunfade. The night was full of brilliant stars, and then.. we saw a shooting star. I closed my eyes and made a wish.
Haldir wished too and something magical happened that night. I fell in love with Haldir and he with me. It just happened...and it was beautiful and good.
He told me about Corisar and his need to journey there. I also had a journey planned. I was returning to Midgard for 3-4 seasons because Eir needed me there. We told eachother of our pre-scheduled journeys and both were surprised on how they coincided. Such surprises were and are common between us. Haldir left first and I a few days later.
When I returned, Haldir told me his marriage to Jelathnia was over. They had ended it by throwing their rings to the bottom of a lake. He confided the reasons, which I will not disclose, and told me he was free to love me. I felt it not prudent to go public with our relationship. His divorce was too recent and even though there was no love between them, I felt that to go public would hurt Jela and that was something I did not wish to happen. We agreed to be discrete for the time being.
How does one describe perfect happiness in a relationship? Is it physical? Spiritual? Intellectual? Emotional? Is it affection? Trust? Support? Understanding? Is it friendship? Reliability? Harmony? Well...that is what it is, a strongly weaved perfectly balanced fiber comprised of all those elements, which proved its strength in the days ahead.
I believe the next phase was Eir's test to both of us.
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
A few days later, Haldir contacted me and said he had time for a trek to Fairhaven if I was available. I so wanted to see the lakes and get a pact to Fairhaven. I thanked him and told him I was ready whenever he was. So we agreed to meet in the jungle and started our journey to the lakes.
Although Haldir and I had spoken a few times before, it had never been for long. During the trek we got to know eachother. We talked about many things and i found Haldir to be pleasant company. I liked him. I liked his view of things, I liked his reasoning and he knew so much. The trek was a lot of fun and so was getting to know him better. When we got to the lakes I was awed. It was the most beautiful place I had ever seen. Not even in my old world had I seen anything comparable. The water was so crystaline and warm as we swam to Fairhaven. The landscape was breathtaking, the plants, the creatures... I was just mesmerized taking in all the sights. Haldir would point out things along the way. He was a wonderful tour guide and I was very thankful for his kindness in spending this time with me.
When we finally reached Fairhaven, Haldir showed me the Kami and Karavan teleporters. I bought my pacts and he took me to a tower in the center of the city. He wanted me to see the sunfade. We climbed to the highest terrace and watched. The weather was clear and it was the most beautiful sunfade I had ever seen. Zyquo happened to be in Fairhaven at the time and later joined us at the terrace. Haldir then told us about a beautiful waterfall and asked if we wanted to see it. I said I definetly did so off we went swimming to the waterfall. It was absolutely stunning. We climbed to the top of it and looked at the breathtaking view below.
A while later Haldir had to rest so he left Zyquo and I at the top of the waterfall and went to build himself a leanto down below. Zyquo and I talked for a while and then my eyelids got heavy. We said goodnight and I rested.
The next day Haldir asked me if I would careplan for him while he collected materials for the Order. I told him of course. He was digging in Loria and I didnt have a pact to Heretic's Hovel. Haldir offered to trek me and after a few mishaps we finally got there. Careplanning for Haldir became a regular thing and as we worked together we became good friends. I found it difficult not to be attracted to him. I have always been attracted to brilliant men and brilliance of mind is something Haldir had plenty of. He was always such a great conversationalist. I was consistently impressed by his analysis, synthesis and evaluation of everything we discussed.
One day we stopped working early and he took me to a secret cave. A cave with a wide cavity in its ceiling where you could see the sky. We sat very close to eachother to watch the sunfade. The night was full of brilliant stars, and then.. we saw a shooting star. I closed my eyes and made a wish.
Haldir wished too and something magical happened that night. I fell in love with Haldir and he with me. It just happened...and it was beautiful and good.
He told me about Corisar and his need to journey there. I also had a journey planned. I was returning to Midgard for 3-4 seasons because Eir needed me there. We told eachother of our pre-scheduled journeys and both were surprised on how they coincided. Such surprises were and are common between us. Haldir left first and I a few days later.
When I returned, Haldir told me his marriage to Jelathnia was over. They had ended it by throwing their rings to the bottom of a lake. He confided the reasons, which I will not disclose, and told me he was free to love me. I felt it not prudent to go public with our relationship. His divorce was too recent and even though there was no love between them, I felt that to go public would hurt Jela and that was something I did not wish to happen. We agreed to be discrete for the time being.
How does one describe perfect happiness in a relationship? Is it physical? Spiritual? Intellectual? Emotional? Is it affection? Trust? Support? Understanding? Is it friendship? Reliability? Harmony? Well...that is what it is, a strongly weaved perfectly balanced fiber comprised of all those elements, which proved its strength in the days ahead.
I believe the next phase was Eir's test to both of us.
Sortilege Eirdottir
Order of the Dragonblades
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
A few weeks after our return from our journeys another trek to Trykerland was planned for the Order. It was to take place on Holeth. This had to be the biggest congregation of Dragonblades I had ever seen. We had to form two groups to accommodate everyone. It was a fun trip and we all made it to Fairhaven safely. Little did I know that very dark storm clouds were gathering. We didn't notice. Haldir and I were both tired and we went to rest after a while.
I awoke suddenly in the middle of the night and saw that Haldir was awake. I was surprised and asked him if he had had trouble sleeping. He told me he was in a nightmare. I looked at him questioningly and he explained that half the Dragonblades had left the Order. I was shocked. We had just had such a pleasant Holeth. So many had participated. What had happened to cause this? He responded that while we were sleeping Enon had made a protest type speech and left the Order with others following him.
The nightmare continued as more blades left the order to either follow Enon, or on their own, or out of confusion. I have no clue. My memory is still clouded at this point due to the shock of it all. All I remember is Haldir calling a meeting in the hall and being told that there were allegations of misconduct against him. Rumors of past indiscretions, affairs, malcontent. Nothing sounded to me specific, just innuendo and sketchy details of scorned women and failed affairs. Haldir voluntarily stepped down as leader and made Zyquo leader until this whole situation could be sorted out and resolved. I felt relieved that Haldir had chosen Zyquo. I had always known him to be honorable and told Haldir so. I hugged him and told him we would see this thing through.
The next day, Zyquo called a meeting of those of us who remained and everyone spoke. More allegations of innuendo and half truths were repeated. and in spite of protests by many present, Zyquo made the arbitrary decision to expel Haldir from the Order which he summarily carried out. I was in shock. How could Zyquo behave this way? How could he be so dishonorable as to do this without specific charges, direct witnesses, and an opportunity for Haldir to defend himself. I immediately quit the Order and walked out to follow Haldir. No way was I going to let him walk this road alone.
I found him outside. I hugged him and stood by him throughout this ordeal. I think he understood then, if he had not before, that I loved HIM, not the leader of the Dragonblades, but just him. I didnt care if he was a king. He was always a king to me whether he wore a crown or not.
The next days were very hard. The Dragonblades split into 4 guilds, The Enon People, The Circle, The Atys Blades, which was a new guild Haldir formed to accommodate those of us who chose to follow him, and the old Order comprised of Zyquo alone. Rumors and Innuendo were running rampant with no specific accusers, no specific details. It irked me. How could people be so stupid as to believe all that refuse, or was there something more? It then occurred to me that there was a machiavellian hand behind all this, feeding, and nurturing discontent, effectively using past indescretions to destroy Haldir. Well this type of behavior was not new to me. I had seen plenty of machiavellian underhandedness in Midgard long before. I was no novice to guild politics or naive as to how corruptive the ambition for power could be. I had to hand it to them, it was a brilliant plan carried out with a most corrupt and diabolical methodology. I am not machiavellian, but life experience has taught me to recognize a good political setup when i see one, and this one was masterfully done while playing on the gullibility of the uninitiated.
With all this rumor and innuendo flying around us, I said to Haldir one night that I did not want women coming out of the woodwork to haunt me. I needed to know everything. We talked for a long time and he told me everything. I told him I did not care about the past, that it was over, and we were starting with a clean slate. We hugged, and my happiness was now complete.
Haldir bought a Hall in Pyr and I dismantled my Yrkannis apartment and bought one in Pyr. I always liked the city of my new people and the change would do us good. Our new hall had no bad memories. It was warm and cozy with plenty of fireplaces and close to the bath house. In spite of everything that was happening, in spite of all we were going through, we were happy and devoted to eachother so.... a few days later Haldir and I bonded within the privacy and peace of our new hall. I wore white and he was my knight in shining armor. In accordance to the rites of the Ruechei, we exchanged rings and vowed to love eachother forever. I only told Ember and my dear friend was there for me and wished us well.
We honeymooned in an undisclosed location and when we returned, there was more work to be done.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
I awoke suddenly in the middle of the night and saw that Haldir was awake. I was surprised and asked him if he had had trouble sleeping. He told me he was in a nightmare. I looked at him questioningly and he explained that half the Dragonblades had left the Order. I was shocked. We had just had such a pleasant Holeth. So many had participated. What had happened to cause this? He responded that while we were sleeping Enon had made a protest type speech and left the Order with others following him.
The nightmare continued as more blades left the order to either follow Enon, or on their own, or out of confusion. I have no clue. My memory is still clouded at this point due to the shock of it all. All I remember is Haldir calling a meeting in the hall and being told that there were allegations of misconduct against him. Rumors of past indiscretions, affairs, malcontent. Nothing sounded to me specific, just innuendo and sketchy details of scorned women and failed affairs. Haldir voluntarily stepped down as leader and made Zyquo leader until this whole situation could be sorted out and resolved. I felt relieved that Haldir had chosen Zyquo. I had always known him to be honorable and told Haldir so. I hugged him and told him we would see this thing through.
The next day, Zyquo called a meeting of those of us who remained and everyone spoke. More allegations of innuendo and half truths were repeated. and in spite of protests by many present, Zyquo made the arbitrary decision to expel Haldir from the Order which he summarily carried out. I was in shock. How could Zyquo behave this way? How could he be so dishonorable as to do this without specific charges, direct witnesses, and an opportunity for Haldir to defend himself. I immediately quit the Order and walked out to follow Haldir. No way was I going to let him walk this road alone.
I found him outside. I hugged him and stood by him throughout this ordeal. I think he understood then, if he had not before, that I loved HIM, not the leader of the Dragonblades, but just him. I didnt care if he was a king. He was always a king to me whether he wore a crown or not.
The next days were very hard. The Dragonblades split into 4 guilds, The Enon People, The Circle, The Atys Blades, which was a new guild Haldir formed to accommodate those of us who chose to follow him, and the old Order comprised of Zyquo alone. Rumors and Innuendo were running rampant with no specific accusers, no specific details. It irked me. How could people be so stupid as to believe all that refuse, or was there something more? It then occurred to me that there was a machiavellian hand behind all this, feeding, and nurturing discontent, effectively using past indescretions to destroy Haldir. Well this type of behavior was not new to me. I had seen plenty of machiavellian underhandedness in Midgard long before. I was no novice to guild politics or naive as to how corruptive the ambition for power could be. I had to hand it to them, it was a brilliant plan carried out with a most corrupt and diabolical methodology. I am not machiavellian, but life experience has taught me to recognize a good political setup when i see one, and this one was masterfully done while playing on the gullibility of the uninitiated.
With all this rumor and innuendo flying around us, I said to Haldir one night that I did not want women coming out of the woodwork to haunt me. I needed to know everything. We talked for a long time and he told me everything. I told him I did not care about the past, that it was over, and we were starting with a clean slate. We hugged, and my happiness was now complete.
Haldir bought a Hall in Pyr and I dismantled my Yrkannis apartment and bought one in Pyr. I always liked the city of my new people and the change would do us good. Our new hall had no bad memories. It was warm and cozy with plenty of fireplaces and close to the bath house. In spite of everything that was happening, in spite of all we were going through, we were happy and devoted to eachother so.... a few days later Haldir and I bonded within the privacy and peace of our new hall. I wore white and he was my knight in shining armor. In accordance to the rites of the Ruechei, we exchanged rings and vowed to love eachother forever. I only told Ember and my dear friend was there for me and wished us well.
We honeymooned in an undisclosed location and when we returned, there was more work to be done.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
Last edited by vonia on Fri Dec 01, 2006 10:10 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Haldir and I returned to the same charged external ambiance that we had left for a little while. Haldir was furious with Zyquo. He had every right to be. He had trusted him and in return had been betrayed. I was very disappointed too. I had told Haldir that Zyquo was an honorable man. It was my very firm belief that he was. I had always trusted and admired him and it was inconceivable to me that Zyquo would be capable of such dishonorable behavior. If I had not seen it with my own eyes and not been present when he expelled Haldir from the Order, I would have called anyone who related the event a liar. I grieved. It was almost like if a dear friend had died and in his place there was a cruel and spiteful stranger.
Haldir had met with Jezi and Zyquo to try to work out an agreement. He didnt care about the leadership. He wanted all of us to return to the Dragonblades. He had built it. He had nurtured it. It was his child. He wanted to return to it. However, Zyquo would not respond. Everyone had left the Order. Zyquo was alone. In fact, in his madness, he had expelled every inactive member of the guild. When any of these happened to awake, they were shocked to find themselves guildless, not knowing what had happened. He was the leader of an empty hall. Days passed and still no response from Zyquo. It made no sense to me at all.
After much discussion, our membership concurred that the Atys Blades should attack the Dragonblade Outpost. The rationale? Zyquo had been made leader of the Dragonblades on a temporary basis until the situation could be resolved. Zyquo in turn had arbitrarily expelled Haldir without the consent of the membership. In our point of view he was an Usurper with no honor or rightful claim to the title. In a last ditch effort, I met with Zyquo in Pyr. I proposed that he take all of us back, step down and a new leader selected, but it was like talking to a brick wall. He was adamant. There was nothing more to be done. I wished him well. He wished me well and I teleported out.
The following night Haldir and I went to the outpost. Haldir looked at me hesitantly. My heart was pounding. It was such a difficult thing to do. Zyquo had been a blade. I said do it! Zyquo usurped the Order. He has no honor. It must be done and let the chips fall where they may. It was done and tears clouded my eyes, but I held them back. I had to seem to be a lady of iron. Though Eir knows my heart was breaking.
Haldir and I stood in the center of the Outpost. I secretly prayed to Eir, Odin and Thor to please find a solution. Please Eir, don't desert me now. I was so exhausted, mentally and physically ..., I rested.
I awoke in the outpost before the battle on the next day. Haldir was there in the same spot I had left him the night before. The battlefield was pretty crowded. Karana was there with us. Allies for both sides were there. The Enon people were there defending Zyquo, as well as a few spectators with front row seats. The Circle was absent which gladdened my heart. They were true blades. Haldir was fully armored in black and gold, Zyquo arrived fully armored in black. Here they were, facing eachother across the lines of battle ...the man I loved and the friend I had once adored, ready to shed blood. I told myself "Sorti hold back those tears. Only the lady of iron must be seen now."
And then... the lady of light showed up. No, it was not Eir.. It was Jeziellia.
She talked to both of them. She worked diplomatic magic. She worked a miracle. I could not believe my eyes. An agreement had been reached with no bloodshed much to my joy and the disappointment of some.. The one thing Haldir wanted the most was to lead the Dragonblades and he got it.
This is the agreement that was reached, announced and pledged to on the battlefield, in front of all allies and persons present. The outpost would go to to Enon's House of Ethmark with the understanding that they would share crystals with the guilds comprised of the former blades. Haldir vowed never to attack the outpost and help defend it if threatened. Zyquo would take us all back into the blades immediately. Once the outpost was effectively transferred, Zyquo would hand leadership over to Haldir once more. Haldir would provide a Guild Hall to Zyquo. So it was that we returned to the Dragonblades.
As agreed, Enon attacked the outpost; we did not defend it. The outpost transferred to Enon's House of Ethmark. (In spite of the publicly announced agreement on the battlefield, the House later reneged on sharing crystals with the Order. Thankfully, other guilds have been so generous with their crystals that we have never lacked them or needed anything from the Etchmarks.) Zyquo kept his word and made Haldir leader of the Dragonblades. Haldir offered a Guild Hall to Zyquo but Zyquo declined. He wanted to be on his own for a while until he decided on a path, although the option to stay was offered. Zyquo left the Blades. Zyquo and I made peace privately and I was glad to have my friend back with no grudges and no resentments. I hugged him big big big.
And so... that painful chapter was closed.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
Haldir had met with Jezi and Zyquo to try to work out an agreement. He didnt care about the leadership. He wanted all of us to return to the Dragonblades. He had built it. He had nurtured it. It was his child. He wanted to return to it. However, Zyquo would not respond. Everyone had left the Order. Zyquo was alone. In fact, in his madness, he had expelled every inactive member of the guild. When any of these happened to awake, they were shocked to find themselves guildless, not knowing what had happened. He was the leader of an empty hall. Days passed and still no response from Zyquo. It made no sense to me at all.
After much discussion, our membership concurred that the Atys Blades should attack the Dragonblade Outpost. The rationale? Zyquo had been made leader of the Dragonblades on a temporary basis until the situation could be resolved. Zyquo in turn had arbitrarily expelled Haldir without the consent of the membership. In our point of view he was an Usurper with no honor or rightful claim to the title. In a last ditch effort, I met with Zyquo in Pyr. I proposed that he take all of us back, step down and a new leader selected, but it was like talking to a brick wall. He was adamant. There was nothing more to be done. I wished him well. He wished me well and I teleported out.
The following night Haldir and I went to the outpost. Haldir looked at me hesitantly. My heart was pounding. It was such a difficult thing to do. Zyquo had been a blade. I said do it! Zyquo usurped the Order. He has no honor. It must be done and let the chips fall where they may. It was done and tears clouded my eyes, but I held them back. I had to seem to be a lady of iron. Though Eir knows my heart was breaking.
Haldir and I stood in the center of the Outpost. I secretly prayed to Eir, Odin and Thor to please find a solution. Please Eir, don't desert me now. I was so exhausted, mentally and physically ..., I rested.
I awoke in the outpost before the battle on the next day. Haldir was there in the same spot I had left him the night before. The battlefield was pretty crowded. Karana was there with us. Allies for both sides were there. The Enon people were there defending Zyquo, as well as a few spectators with front row seats. The Circle was absent which gladdened my heart. They were true blades. Haldir was fully armored in black and gold, Zyquo arrived fully armored in black. Here they were, facing eachother across the lines of battle ...the man I loved and the friend I had once adored, ready to shed blood. I told myself "Sorti hold back those tears. Only the lady of iron must be seen now."
And then... the lady of light showed up. No, it was not Eir.. It was Jeziellia.
She talked to both of them. She worked diplomatic magic. She worked a miracle. I could not believe my eyes. An agreement had been reached with no bloodshed much to my joy and the disappointment of some.. The one thing Haldir wanted the most was to lead the Dragonblades and he got it.
This is the agreement that was reached, announced and pledged to on the battlefield, in front of all allies and persons present. The outpost would go to to Enon's House of Ethmark with the understanding that they would share crystals with the guilds comprised of the former blades. Haldir vowed never to attack the outpost and help defend it if threatened. Zyquo would take us all back into the blades immediately. Once the outpost was effectively transferred, Zyquo would hand leadership over to Haldir once more. Haldir would provide a Guild Hall to Zyquo. So it was that we returned to the Dragonblades.
As agreed, Enon attacked the outpost; we did not defend it. The outpost transferred to Enon's House of Ethmark. (In spite of the publicly announced agreement on the battlefield, the House later reneged on sharing crystals with the Order. Thankfully, other guilds have been so generous with their crystals that we have never lacked them or needed anything from the Etchmarks.) Zyquo kept his word and made Haldir leader of the Dragonblades. Haldir offered a Guild Hall to Zyquo but Zyquo declined. He wanted to be on his own for a while until he decided on a path, although the option to stay was offered. Zyquo left the Blades. Zyquo and I made peace privately and I was glad to have my friend back with no grudges and no resentments. I hugged him big big big.
And so... that painful chapter was closed.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
Last edited by vonia on Thu Jan 04, 2007 5:43 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
After the outpost was transferred, and the agreement completed, we went to the old guild hall in Yrkannis. Haldir was talking with friends outside and I went in alone. A great anguish overwhelmed me. As I walked through the empty rooms, memories flooded my mind as if a great dam had burst and weaved a path of destruction everywhere its waters reached. I relived every moment in that Hall. As I looked over the nearly empty guild roster, images of missing names and faces flashed before me reminding me of outings, treks, training sessions, ceremonies, happy and sad times. I just sat down in the basement and cried like a child. The Dragonblade Hall was now an ancient silent tomb, desolate and representing death and loneliness. What damage had been done... and for what purpose? I could not bear another moment in there... so I ported to Pyr.
When Haldir entered the Hall I was not there. He called out to me and I returned. He knew immediately that there was something wrong when he looked at me. I told him. He said we didnt have to be in Yrkannis. We could move the Hall to wherever we wanted. I hugged him. We decided on Pyr. Pyr was where we had been during the ordeal and in spite of everything we had been very happy there.
The next day Haldir bought a hall in Pyr and we began moving. It was an exhausting two day project but we did it with the help of Karana. Each item removed from the vault had a history, a name attached to it, a memory, but we did it, and when it was finished we sat by the fire in the new Dragonblade Hall in Pyr and I was happy again. It was a new beginning...
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
When Haldir entered the Hall I was not there. He called out to me and I returned. He knew immediately that there was something wrong when he looked at me. I told him. He said we didnt have to be in Yrkannis. We could move the Hall to wherever we wanted. I hugged him. We decided on Pyr. Pyr was where we had been during the ordeal and in spite of everything we had been very happy there.
The next day Haldir bought a hall in Pyr and we began moving. It was an exhausting two day project but we did it with the help of Karana. Each item removed from the vault had a history, a name attached to it, a memory, but we did it, and when it was finished we sat by the fire in the new Dragonblade Hall in Pyr and I was happy again. It was a new beginning...
Sortilege Dragonblade
Order of the Dragonblades
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Following our movement of the Hall to Pyr, our days have been peaceful and happy. We have focused our energies in rebuilding. Our first step has been to replenish all the materials lost from the Hall Vault during the period of crisis. It has been a very time consuming endeavor but finally our Vault has been restored to the condition it was prior to the schism.
We have been learning jungle foraging and crafting lately. Haldir can craft high quality light armor for all the races now and I have been following him closely. I can now craft high quality Zora light armor as I dreamed of doing since the first day I set foot on Zora. It has been great fun doing this and needless to say, we are very pleased with our progress.
We also have been training very often. I tried close combat and found that I love it. We train often with Nara and have a lot of fun. Ohh I am still a healer and will always be but now I can comfortably survive two or three blows from a predatory kitin instead of dying after the first one. Its a very rewarding feeling.
Haldir has journeyed to Corisar and I am missing him terribly. However, knowing that he will return soon keeps me happy, and training constantly makes the time fly.
We have been learning jungle foraging and crafting lately. Haldir can craft high quality light armor for all the races now and I have been following him closely. I can now craft high quality Zora light armor as I dreamed of doing since the first day I set foot on Zora. It has been great fun doing this and needless to say, we are very pleased with our progress.
We also have been training very often. I tried close combat and found that I love it. We train often with Nara and have a lot of fun. Ohh I am still a healer and will always be but now I can comfortably survive two or three blows from a predatory kitin instead of dying after the first one. Its a very rewarding feeling.
Haldir has journeyed to Corisar and I am missing him terribly. However, knowing that he will return soon keeps me happy, and training constantly makes the time fly.
Re: A Viking's Journal of Life in Atys
Sortilege sits by the fireplace in Dragonblade Hall deep in thought. She retrieves the worn leather journal from her pack, dips her quill on a vial of tinted sap and begins to write.
Its been so long since I write. Where to start!
Haldir returned from Corisar a few weeks ago in an incredibly optimistic mood. His journey was very successful. His excitement was contageous and as we sat by the fire he began to tell me the news.
New lands had been discovered. Wonderful continents full of adventures, new directions and ancient civilizations to explore. He wanted me to go with him as soon as he readied his ship for the journey. I was as excited as he was and of course agreed to accompany him. Stay here without him? That is not an option. I go where he goes. We will be leaving the past behind us but the memories of all the wonderful friends who have helped us will be etched in our minds always.
Since then, we have been completing our preparations. Nara and others will be joining us and are as excited as we. The time is so close that sleep just eluded me. Writing this one last time has helped me, as I already feel my eyelids getting heavier.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Sortilege closes the journal, letting her fingers glide gently over the worn leather cover. She carefully places it behind a loose stone over the mantle. That done, she approaches a slumbering Haldir and gazes at him lovingly. She lifts an unruly wisp of golden hair from his brow, bends down to kiss the tip of his nose and lays down beside him. Haldir senses her presence and wraps his arms tightly around her. She snuggles to him and closes her eyes smiling.... As sleep claims her, she dreams of a new world and their new adventure...
Its been so long since I write. Where to start!
Haldir returned from Corisar a few weeks ago in an incredibly optimistic mood. His journey was very successful. His excitement was contageous and as we sat by the fire he began to tell me the news.
New lands had been discovered. Wonderful continents full of adventures, new directions and ancient civilizations to explore. He wanted me to go with him as soon as he readied his ship for the journey. I was as excited as he was and of course agreed to accompany him. Stay here without him? That is not an option. I go where he goes. We will be leaving the past behind us but the memories of all the wonderful friends who have helped us will be etched in our minds always.
Since then, we have been completing our preparations. Nara and others will be joining us and are as excited as we. The time is so close that sleep just eluded me. Writing this one last time has helped me, as I already feel my eyelids getting heavier.
Sortilege Dragonblade
Sortilege closes the journal, letting her fingers glide gently over the worn leather cover. She carefully places it behind a loose stone over the mantle. That done, she approaches a slumbering Haldir and gazes at him lovingly. She lifts an unruly wisp of golden hair from his brow, bends down to kiss the tip of his nose and lays down beside him. Haldir senses her presence and wraps his arms tightly around her. She snuggles to him and closes her eyes smiling.... As sleep claims her, she dreams of a new world and their new adventure...
Last edited by vonia on Tue Jan 30, 2007 9:08 pm, edited 1 time in total.