Gabriel Writes Home

Gabriel Raynecrier sits at a makeshift desk in the armory of the Citadel. He mumbles to himself, "Imbue these swords with some manner of hypnotic power, a power of protection."  He was a young Mage yet, young in his studies, but had a powerful mentor. To do as the Druid requested, he needed items from home and so he wrote this letter, took it to one of the ships and asked the Captain to deliver it to his sweetheart when they anchored in his home.

   "To my sweet Audrey. I have arrived in the River Lands already, but I find I came ill prepared. Our home lies so far on the other side of the mysts, but I also find I miss you. Can we kill two birds with one store, sweet Audrey. Might you travel here and bring the scrolls and books from my room. I would also ask that you consult with the ArchMagus, your father and my mentor.  Tell him that I have been tasked with enchanting swords to help in the defeat of a Demon. This magic skill I had just begun and I fear my skills are lacking and without advice and my scrolls, I will fail. As ever, Your Loving Gabriel."

Xella Tells the Druid What Happened with the Demon

Jaekob Faolan opened his eyes and slipped out of reverie, his eyes catching the curtains that draped the building as they seemed to dance at the command of a gentle breeze. "Where is she," he mumbled to himself, pushing himself up and beginning to pace.

Jaekob Faolan: "Ah, well. She will get here when she gets here," and he ambled off toward the infirmary to leave a bundle of sage for Fitheach.

Xella Steward sits on the bench in the infirmary, rubbing the bandage over her burn.

Jaekob Faolan blinked once, twice seeing Xella sitting in the infirmary, "Xella wha...what are you doing here hmm?"

Xella Steward looks up and quickly stands, giving an awkward curtsy.

Jaekob and Xella

Jaekob Faolan glances at the bandage on her arm, "What happened to you Xella?" he asks moving closer to her.

Xella Steward looks at her wrist and sighs "I, had a run in with, Ryn."

Jaekob Faolan: "You what? And he harmed you?'

Xella Steward looks down and nods, "Though I got a few good hits on him too."

Jaekob Faolan bites his lip hard, "You fought the Demon? But.... but...." how could you?"

 Xella Steward: "It appears water harms him."

Jaekob Faolan: "Water harms him?" he swallows and his eyes widen. "You must tell me everything that happened Xella."

Xella Steward sighs softly and starts from the beginning.

Xella Steward: "I was coming here to meet with you when near the Remembrance Bridge< I smelled fire."

Jaekob Faolan nods, listening.

Xella Steward: "Being a mer, I can control water, so I went off the path to try to put it out."

Xella Steward takes a breath, remembering, "Ryn was there, in his true form."

Jaekob Faolan turns his head slightly to the side, his face expressionless, "In his... Demon form? And you are sure it was the on called Ryn?"

 Xella Steward looks at Jae, "He started circling me. I am sure he was going to kill me."

Jaekob and Xella

Jaekob Faolan swallows hard and nods, "Is that when he hurt your wrist?"

Xella Steward shakes head "No, not yet, I summoned water to protect me."

Xella Steward: "Some of it hit him, and it hurt him. He grabbed my wrist then pushed me away."

Xella Steward rubs the burn, "Then I tossed my water at him, he....screamed.........then ran off to the Shadow Lands."

Jaekob Faolan: "And you have no doubt it was the water? Well....well this could prove very helpful in our fight against him."

Xella Steward nods, "I put the fire out, then came here."

Jaekob Faolan nods and sighs, "I thank you for that. But, why are you still in the infirmary?"

Xella Steward goes red "I um....passed out on the cot over there,"

Xella Steward: "I am not used to moving that much water."

Jaekob Faolan turns his head to the side, "Passed out?"

Xella Steward: "Yea, I normally don't use my water bending skills......not on that scale."

Jaekob Faolan: "You are better now hmm?" he asks with a worried look.

Xella Steward nods "Just no saltwater or swimming till it is healed, Fit looked at it."

Xella Steward smiles sadly.

Jaekob Faolan: "Good. Good. And have you told me everything Xella?"

Xella Steward looks down, "No........not everything sir."

Xella Steward pulls out a small dark stone from a pouch on her skirt.

Jaekob Faolan: "Tell me, then. If we are to save our lands from this Demon, we....I need to know everything about him." he says watching Xella with the stone.

Xella Steward: "He gave this to me, back when we where, friends."

 Jaekob Faolan cuts his eyes to the stone, "The Demon gave you THAT?"

Xella Steward touches the stone gently "He said this can....summon him."

Jaekob Faolan: "Summon him," and his eyes widen as he bites his lip.

Xella Steward nods "I beleve he said to toss it on the ground, and will him to me."

Jaekob Faolan: "And have you used it?"

Xella Steward shakes head no.

Xella Steward: "I have not sir."

Jaekob Faolan: "You must give it to me," he says softly extending a hand.

Xella Steward hands over the stone, and bites her lip, "There is more."

Jaekob Faolan takes the stone and wrapping it in a piece of linen, he tucks it into his pouch. "What more? You must tell it all Xella."

Xella Steward sighs "I gave him one of my scales,"

Xella Steward looks at Jae, worried "He can use my scale to summon me,"

 Jaekob Faolan looks at her with almost a look of panic, "He can summon you? Xella WHAT have you done? You are in danger."

Xella Steward nods "This was when I thought he was my friend."

Jaekob Faolan: "What is done is done, Xella. But, I am not sure how I can protect you."

Xella Steward nods "I am not asking for protection."

Xella Steward smiles and heads for the door, "That is all I know."

Jaekob Faolan nods and watches her go, not quite sure what to do."Xella..."

Jaekob Faolan: "Go to your island and tell Ron all of this hmm."

Jaekob Faolan: "And if something happens have him come to me."

Xella Steward: nods "I will have him pick me up at cheshire."

Xella Steward leaves and goes to the port city.

Jaekob Faolan nods and summons two elves, "Follow her. Make sure she arrives safely in Cheshire."

Winter Silversmith Finds a Home

Winter Silversmith crossed the bridge and stepped cautiously over the rocky shore.

“Darned spriggan” Winter said, "snatching my boots in the night, forcing me to walk barefoot today."

Winter continued over the rocky outcropping towards a mysterious dark mist he had observed from the bridge.

“Must be careful not to aaaaaiiigh!” A loud splash could be heard as Winter toppled off the broken riverbank and into the water near the falls.

“Pfft cursed spriggan!” he growled as his arms flapped wildly to bring himself upright in the river.

“Well, since I am here I might as well continue” Winter said as he paddled like a dog and made his way across the river to the opposite shore.

Climbing over the moss and sand Winter crawled up the side of the bank beneath a tall Maritime Pine with thick branches of green leaves that extended out over the river. Up the earthen bank Winter finally rose to his feet, just for a moment, before collapsing on the grass under the added weight of his river drowned tunic.

Laying on his back in the tall grass, Winter stopped to catch his breath and feel the sunlight trickling down on his face through the rustling leaves above.

“Mmmm blessed sun” he breathed in deeply the warmth of the sun and the woodsy smell of grass and moss and mud.

A cloud moved in front of the sun for a moment and Winter opened his eyes to the cool darkness that suddenly surrounded him. Squinting he could see something wooden and Man made in the branches of the pine.

Removing some of the extra layers of drenched clothing and somewhat lighter now Winter rose to his feet once again and could clearly make out a solid wood panel wall above.

Winter Silversmith

Winter climbed up on a nearby rock balancing himself as he eyed a nearby thick branch nearby.

“Too… old… for… this!” Winter exclaimed as he leaped skyward toward the branch with arms outstretched before him. <THWACK!> Winter crashed into the trunk and fell down between the rock and the tree. “Owww” Winter cried rubbing his leg and ankle. Winter looked around to see if anyone had seen his pathetic attempt at flying, the woods were silent save a few birds chirping in the trees across the river.

“There must be a way to get up there” Winter asked to the tree and rock before him. It was then that he noticed the small spikes that had been hammered into the trunk. Smacking his hand upon his forehead Winter shook his head and laughed, “Well, I could just take the ladder” he said.

Winter's New Home

After much swinging and grunting and praying he would not fall Winter made his way up the tree to the wooden wall. Just when he was about to tumble downward his hand caught hold of the edge of the wood and he pulled himself upward his all of his might. Hand, shoulder, leg, two legs and with one last deep breath he rolled into the room.

“I am too old for this” Winter panted, as he rubbed his bruised leg and ankle, staring up at what appeared to be a ceiling.

Surveying the room he found it empty except for a long coil of knotted rope piled in the corner near the door with one end tied to a ring in the floor. “I could have used you down there!” Winter said to the rope, half expecting the rope to reply with giggling at his recent performance.

“This shall be my home” Winter declared, “I will raise sheep on the grassland ridge below and spend my days watching the river and the world pass me by. Yes, this shall be my home indeed”.

The Druid and the Mage Meet

Jaekob Faolan makes his way through the Elven city of Calenhad. His strides are long and steady as he takes the steps downward two at a time and finally enters the lush forest of the elves. He makes his way along the path toward Remembrance Bridge and as he nears it, he also nears the land that was defiled by the Demon. He swallows hard as his head cocks a bit to the side, his face expressionless. Finally, he moves onward. He bypasses the human settlement of Cheshire, He nods almost casually to the farmers and peasants who cross his path. Then he comes to the walkway to the Great Citadel, a walkway of large stones spread out over the seas and rivers that encircle the Citadel.

Jaekob Faolan: "The Citadel," he all but whispers to himself. He knew this great castle would be the last defense of his people - Elves, Humans, Hobbits, all of them. Should the Demon come to hold sway over the lands, they all would retreat to this great castle which was protected first by the moat of seas and rivers which surrounded it and second by the vast stone walls which had stood for centuries unpenetrated.

Jaekob Faolan moved quietly through the bustling courtyards where soldiers already were prepared for the possibility of an ensuing war against ONE Demon. He entered the huge gates and made his way along cobble stone roads until he came to the castle proper. Then he passed through the Great Hall, slipped through the back entrance and paused as he stood before the armory.

Gabriel Raynecrier stood quietly in the armory, awaiting the arrival of the Elven King. They had not met before and he was surprised when a messenger arrived asking him to journey to the Citadel and meet the Elven King. "Why the armory," he murmured to himself. "Why would a King request his presence at such a place, a place for warriors and fighters?" As he waited, he ran a finger along one of the many blades on display. "Mighty fine weapons, extraordinary," he said bending down to inspect one of the swords more thoroughly. As he caught sight of the runes engraved on the blade, he ran his fingers over it. Then his eyes glanced down the table. He raised a brow curiously. All of the swords bore the same rune, an Elven rune of some sort.

Jaekob Faolan pushed open the heavy doors to the armory and stepped in. He saw the Mage with the swords and walked over to join him. His face was impassive as it had come to be of late. He didn't smile, but simply nodded his head. "Lord Mage," he said softly, "I thank you for making this journey and meeting with me."

the Mage and the Druid Meet

Gabriel Raynecrier turned as the door opened and then closed. His eyes met those of the elf and he bowed, not a low bow, but one of respect. He had never met the Elven King but he had no doubt he was in company of the Aran Tau'amandil, the Elven King of the River Lands. "Your Majesty, I am honored," he say midway into the bow, holding it until the King spoke.

Jaekob Faolan waved a hand through the air. "This is not a time for formalities mi'lord. We have more...important business to discuss" and he nodded to the swords. "I see you have found the......" and he bit his lip as he reached out to take one of the swords into his hand. "These are.....well....special weapons, mi'lord Mage. But, I brought you here to make them... even more special hmmm."

The Druid and the Mage

Gabriel Raynecrier looked at the Druid King and nodded. Then he turned to look at the swords, again running his fingers over a blade. "What would you have me do Your Majesty?" he asked in a very hushed voice. I am a simple Mage, not a smith or a craftsman of swords." And he looked back at the Elven King, "What could I possibly do to assist you?"

Jaekob Faolan bit his lip again, an old habit that he never could break. "You traveled a long way to meet with me so surely you know this is a matter of great urgency. Else, I would not have asked you to make such a journey."

Gabriel Raynecrier nods. "Ah, I would never turn down such an invitation as yours, Your Majesty.And I admit, I was...am...curious as to what you want of me."

Jaekob Faolan: "I want you to imbue these six blades," and he ran his hand over the blades, letting it hover above them. "I want you to imbue them with some manner of magic that will help the Elves defeat a.....a Demon" and he swallowed hard, turning his gaze from the Mage. "Have you heard about the troubles in our lands?" he asked softly, his face still a blank palette. "Have you heard that we are tormented by a Demon who is determined to claim our lands for his own?"

Gabriel Raynecrier nods, "I have heard rumors, yes. But, one can never believe rumors. Are you saying, then, that there is a Demon?" he asks as his eyes widen.

Jaekob Faolan: "The rumors are true, mi'lord Mage. Were that they were just rumors, but.....yes, they are true."

Gabriel Raynecrier turns to the swords, picking one up and holding it tight in his hand. He was awkward with the sword, but he turned from the Elven King and slashed it through the air. "I am not familiar with weapons Your Majesty, but this seems an extraordinary weapon. And what is this......this rune on the blade for?"

Jaekob Faolan steps closer to the table and lays his sword down, placing it gently in its place beside the others. "It is a rune holy to the Druids, mi'lord Mage, nothing more. Now tell me, have you the skills to imbue these weapons?"

Gabriel Raynecrier nods. "What would you have these blades do Your Majesty? Perhaps, some type of protection for the one who wields it?"

Jaekob Faolan nodded and offered a bit of a smile. "Do you read minds, mi'lord Mage?" and he laughed but it was a nervous laugh. "Yes, that was... is precisely what I had in mind, what I had hoped you could do."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "Yes," he said looking at the Elven King. "I can do what you ask, but it will take some time. I will have to secure the items I need and will need a place to work. I did not bring my scrolls with me so I would want to have access to the Library of the Elves." And he nods, looking over to the swords. "I will work as quickly as I can, Your Majesty."

Jaekob Faolan: "Our survival may be determined by your success mi'lord Mage. I will send a guard to you and he will assist you in all your needs. I have one request..."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "A request? What is that?"

Jaekob Faolan: "This must be kept quiet hmmm? I have not even discussed this with the Elven Council or my Druids. I wanted to make sure that I could secure someone with the ability to do this and that it was...well...doable."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "As you wish, Your Majesty. I will keep my work to myself and speak of it only to you."

Jaekob Faolan reaches over and lays his hand on the Mage's shoulder, "Have the guard send for me if I am needed and I shall come to you forthwith." And with that, the Elven King turned and left the Mage alone in the armory.

                                   

Fitheach Heals Xella

Xella Steward enters Calenhad, holding her wrist lightly.

Fitheach Eun checks the small temple to see if anything is needed.

Xella Steward looks around, looking for someone to direct her to the Druid King.

Xella Steward goes to one of the guards and asks if he can direct her to the King,

Fitheach Eun hears someone asking for the Druid and sticks her head out of the temple door to see.

Fitheach Eun sees Xella talking to the guard and holding her wrist.

Xella Steward turns around and sees Fit.

Fitheach Eun: "Quel re Xella, Are you looking for the Druid?"

Xella Steward smiles and nods to her, "I am Lady Druid."

Fitheach Eun: "I do not think he is here at the moment but should be shortly."

Xella Steward winces slightly and touches her wrist gently.

Fitheach Eun: "Is there anything I can help with?"

Fitheach Eun notices the wince and looks concerned: "What happened to your wrist?"

Xella Steward:"I ummm," sighs.  "I got burned.......by the Demon."

Fitheach Eun walks closer to her: "Burned by the Demon? That is not good."

Fitheach Eun: "Let's go take a look at it and make sure it will be all right?"

Xella Steward nods and offers her her wrist.

Fitheach Eun nods to the nearby building: " The infirmary is just over there."

Xella Steward follows her in>

Fitheach Eun looks at Xella's wrist carefully. She brings over a bucket of cold well water and asks Xella to submerge her wrist in it.

Xella Steward does so.

Fitheach Eun: "That should help cool the pain. Is it feeling better?"

Xella Steward pulls her wrist out and rubs it, "Yes, it is."

 Fitheach Eun goes over to the shelf and looks for the comfrey burn salve.

Fitheach Eun: "Don't rub it, that will make it worse."

Xella Steward stops rubbing and blushes.

Fitheach Eun: "Burns need to be cooled and then protected from the air to heal quickly."

Fitheach Eun: "And salt water might not be good for it."

 Xella Steward nods and offers her wrist.

Fitheach Eun: "Can you stay in the inland rivers until it heals?"

Fitheach Eun carefully spreads the salve lightly over the burn and then wraps it carefully in a soft bandage.

Fitheach Eun: "Do you want to tell me what happened?"

Xella Steward sighs and nods. "I was on the way to come here and I smelled fire."

Fitheach Eun sits down for a minute and rests.

Xella Steward looks at Fit and does so.

Fitheach Eun: "Fire, where was that?"

Xella Steward: "Just below the mountain here, near Remembrance  Bridge."

Fitheach Eun fishes out a roll of oiled silk and wraps it over the bandage carefully covering it all. "This will keep it from getting wet easily."

Fitheach Eun: "Near the bridge; that is close for a fire. And you saw the Demon there?"

Xella Steward nods. "He was burning the land."

Xella Steward: he was burning the land

Fitheach Eun frowns;  "That is most definitely not good."

Fitheach Eun: "How did you get burned?"

Xella Steward: "I had pulled some water to me to protect myself, he was circling me, the water hit him and he pushed me away."

Fitheach Eun: "Ah and he touched your wrist?"

Xella Steward: nods, "He no longer looked like a Drow. He looked like living fire."

Fitheach Eun: "Oh really? He is fully demon then; have you told the Druid yet? He needs to know about all of it."

Xella Steward rubs her wrist, "I will tell him when I see him."

Fitheach Eun: "Do you want me to warn him first or would you rather it comes from you?"

Xella Steward thinks "I will tell him,"

Fitheach Eun: "Okay, I will send him your way if I see him first."

Fitheach Eun looks seriously at Xella: " Try not to rub your wrist."

Fitheach Eun: "And remember what I said about salt water."

Xella Steward nods, "I'll just stay here then."

 Fitheach Eun: "That is a good idea; would you like something to eat or drink?"

Xella Steward nods, "That would be good."

 Fitheach Eun: "I will send something over; in the meantime there is a bed if you want to lie down for a while; I will go watch for the Druid."

Xella Steward nods and goes to the bed.

Fitheach Eun slips out the door looking for the Druid.

Face to Face, the Demon and the Mermaid

Ilmryn Xyltyn rubbed his hand against his face. He smelled of fire and Demon. Again, he was at the place where he had sucked the life from the earth with hellfire. Now, he would push the damage further into Calenhad, working his way ever closer to the elven city.

Ilmryn Xyltyn: He was in Demon form, but he had taken precautions to make sure no one was around. After all, his powers were lessened when he presented himself as the Drow.

the Demon

Xella Steward holds the letter in her hand, trotting down the path to Calenhad

Ilmryn Xyltyn raised an arm and with a growl, something akin to feral, something akin to the emptiness which consumed him and Hellfire pulsed through his body, through his arm and out his fingers. In one fell swoop the forest was ablaze. A smirk curled onto his thin lips and he growled, ""Te'kano ekto'edos, Druid," he hissed into the flames that snapped at the vegetation and the trees, eating them with a fierceness.

the Fire

Xella Steward pauses as she smells something burning, she goes off the path, drawing water to her to try to put it out.

Ilmryn Xyltyn jerks and spasms as a burst of water blasts into the flames, drops hitting his body which is ablaze with Hellfire. He winces at the pain from the water and jerks his head to look back over his shoulder. He sees her and hisses and slowly turns.

Xella Steward eyes widen as she hears the hiss, she eyes widen as she sees the demon, "Ryn.....?

Ilmryn Xyltyn started to say yes and then stopped himself. Had she seen him in this form? Surely not. Then like an animal, his legs bent, he moved closer to her, wary of the water he knew she could call upon.

Ilmryn Xyltyn: "Go away!" he hissed.

Xella Steward swallows, eyes wide, she takes a step back, realizing this is his true form, "Ryn, I'm sorry,"

Xella

Xella Steward looks at the scorched land around her, her eyes widen.

Xella Steward holds the letter from the Druid King in her hand.

Ilmryn Xyltyn steps yet closer to her, fangs protruding and curled around his bottom lip. He extended a hand and flames shoot from his finger tips landing close enough to frighten but not injure her. Te'kano ekto'edose! Tor a'kiel (I will kill you, I will do it), he hissed and growled as the flames in the forest climbed higher into the air, stripping the land of it's life.

Xella Steward does not understand his words, but realizes he can, and will, kill her.

Xella Steward backs up, looking up to the elf city.

Ilmryn Xyltyn drops down onto all fours, his claws digging into the hardened ash and advances toward her, "Be gone or your fate is sealed," he growls as he nears her and moves around her, circling his prey.

Xella Steward swallows, shivering as he circles, "If I run, you would only chase me, you can't afford to let me go, risking me telling the King.

Xella Steward pulls water toward her.

Xella Steward looks at Ryn, knowing she would only have one good shot.

Ilmryn Xyltyn hisses and cringes at the water hitting his skin. And unlike the hellfire which consumes him, he let out a loud cry as the pain claimed him. And as he cries our an arm moves toward her, a movement so swift she would not see it. And he wraps his burning hand around her wrist, jerking her and pushing her away.

Xella Steward eyes widen and gasps at the burn, she tosses a ball of water at him, then grabs her wrist.

Ilmryn Xyltyn dodges the water but not fast enough as it splashes into his side and he lets out a cry that surely can be heard throughout the lands. He turns and on all fours and much like a wolf, he runs. He runs hard and fast toward the Shadow Lands, the pain overwhelming him.

Xella Steward holds her wrist lightly, heading to elf town after putting the fires out.

The Wedding of Daniella and Josiah MacTire

Please join Josiah and Daniella as they wed! If you missed the beautiful ceremony, here it is in its entirety. My apologies for all the witty remarks from guests. But, length ya know! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Josiah MacTire.

Jaekob Faolan takes a deep breath to find his balance  before he begins.

The Druid Officiates

Jaekob Faolan: “M’Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen. We are gathered here today to witness the union of Daniella and Josiah.

Jaekob Faolan: "Dani and Jo very much appreciate your attendance at their special occasion. This ceremony is mostly non-sectarian, but it combines a little of Pagan and Jewish practices within it, so have fun trying to work out what’s what. Or just nod and smile, nod and smile. No offense is meant, implied or inferred to any system of belief or lack thereof by this ceremony.”

TheAisle

Josiah MacTire grins.

Jaekob Faolan nods and smiles.

Jaekob Faolan: “OK, Ladies and Gentlemen, that said, please be upstanding for the bride. (That means you stand up. It’s a quaint British term and we ARE in Albion, which has an English flavour.)”

Josiah MacTire gulps.

Daniella MacTire smiles.

Jaekob Faolan turns to the assembled “You may be seated."

Daniella MacTire smiles at the assembly and at Jae and Jo.

Josiah MacTire is tailwagging furiously.

Jaekob Faolan: "Now, before we proceed, it is incumbent upon me to ask if anyone among the assembled is stupid and suicidal enough to raise an objection to this wedding. If so, I ask you to commend your soul to the Great Pack and speak now, or forever hold your peace.”

Daniella and Josiah at the Altar

Josiah MacTire casts a baleful eye over the assembled.

Daniella MacTire grins at Jo.

Jaekob Faolan looks from one to the other and continues.

Josiah MacTire nods.

Jaekob Faolan: “As a protection and blessing on this ceremony, I call upon the four winds and the four elements to guard and guide us."

Jaekob Faolan: "North Wind, element of Earth! Join us and bring your strength to the proceedings. May this couple be as steadfast and enduring as you are, and may you carry away the steadfast and enduring smell from across the water, which no amount of drain cleaner has managed to remove.”

The Ceremony

Josiah MacTire looks embarrassed. "Stupid terraforming."

Daniella MacTire giggles. "That's *Jo's* land."

Jaekob Faolan: "East Wind, element of Air! Bring the blessings of clear communication to this couple. Let them always be able to talk to each other about anything, except possibly that night in Bridgemere when Dani.”

Josiah MacTire whispers: "AHEM!"

Daniella MacTire glares at Jaekob and tries to look innocent.

Josiah MacTire waves Jaekob off.

Jaekob Faolan: South Wind, element of Fire! Bring warmth to the couple, so that they may always feel they have support and friendship – one with the other. Bring passion, so that they may always turn to each other’s arms and never another. Blow away all traces of the sound of hammering from Jo’s region next door…

Josiah MacTire looks even more embarrassed.

Daniella MacTire smirks.

Jaekob Faolan:  "West Wind, element of Water! Bring love to these proceedings and let this
couple always walk in love with each other, and with the love that is found in the company of good friends. Wash away all traces of fear, and of jealousy.”

Daniella MacTire whistles.

Josiah MacTire is now blushing scarlet inside the ears.

Jaekob Faolan turns to the altar and pours a cup full of wine.

Jaekob Faolan: "We continue the ceremony by asking for a blessing on the couple from their gods and with the sharing of wine. Josiah, you may unveil the beauty of your bride and give her the wine, symbol of rejoicing."

Josiah MacTire reverently lifts the veil and holds the cup to her lips.

Daniella MacTire beams.

Josiah MacTire: "There's my beautiful lady."

Daniella MacTire sips the wine.

Daniella MacTire passes the wine to Jo so he can sip and before she takes him anywhere, they say the blessing.

Daniella MacTire passes the wine to Jaekob.

Jaekob Faolan: “Do you, Daniella, take this wolf to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love, honour, and obey when it suits you, to brush, bathe, flea-dip, blow-dry, clip toenails, and remove that horrid waxy buildup from his ears that maketh him whimper, forsaking all others, until death do you part?”

Daniella MacTire: "Praised are You, Sovereign of All, who giveth the fruit of the vine."

Josiah MacTire: "Praised are You, Sovereign of All, who giveth the fruit of the vine."

Josiah MacTire takes a sip and looks at Jaekob. "NOW you can ask."

Josiah MacTire grins.

Josiah MacTire sets the wine glass down on the altar.

Jaekob Faolan: “Do you, Daniella, take this wolf to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love, honour, and obey when it suits you, to brush, bathe, flea-dip, blow-dry, clip toenails, and remove that horrid waxy buildup from his ears that maketh him whimper, forsaking all others, until death do you part?”

Daniella MacTire grins. "Only a VERY brave man would marry off these two!:

Jaekob Faolan shakes his head and bites his lip.

Daniella MacTire grins. "I do. He'll pay me back in ways I shall not embarrass this assembly with. Twice."

Josiah MacTire looks hopeful at that.

Josiah MacTire: "Only twice?"

Jaekob Faolan turns to Jo

Jaekob Faolan: “Do you, Josiah, take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, to love, honour, and hand over the keys, to cherish, nuzzle, and do unto her all those secret things that cause her to laugh when any human male even TRIES to get her attention, forsaking all others, until death do you part?”

Daniella MacTire grins. "I'll tell you why, later."

Josiah MacTire smiles, ears perked. He blinks and looks at Daniella. "Who, HER?"

Josiah MacTire: "Oh, right! Yeah, that sounds good.:

Daniella MacTire growls, very wolf like for a human.

Daniella MacTire pokes him HARD in the ribs.

Josiah MacTire: "YIP!"

Josiah MacTire growls back.

Jaekob Faolan: : “In keeping with tradition, the couple will exchange tokens of their commitment in the form of rings. Do you each have a ring for the other?”

Daniella MacTire: "Yes."

Josiah MacTire makes a big show of panicking and slapping multiple pockets until relaxing with a WHOOSH. "Yeah, got it. Heh."

Jaekob Faolan: “Perfect! Josiah, please place the ring on Dani’s finger and repeat after me."
”
Josiah MacTire puts the ring on her finger.

Jaekob Faolan: “Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring.”

Josiah MacTire: "Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring."

Jaekob Faolan: “ ...according to the religious teaching of Moses and Israel.”

Josiah MacTire: "According to the religious teaching of Moses and Israel."

Jaekob Faolan: “I betroth you to me forever.”

Josiah MacTire: "I betroth you to me forever."

Jaekob Faolan: ”I betroth you to me with steadfast love and compassion.”

Josiah MacTire: "I betroth you to me with... with steadfast l-l-ove and c-compassion."

Jaekob Faolan:  "I betroth you to me in faithfulness."

Josiah MacTire sniffles.

Josiah MacTire got some dust in his eye. Yeah.

Jaekob Faolan smiles at Josiah and turns to Dani.

Jaekob Faolan: "Dani, please place the ring on Josiah’s finger and repeat after me.”

Daniella MacTire slips the ring on Josiah's finger.

Josiah MacTire: "I betroth you to me in faithfulness."

Jaekob Faolan: “Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring.”

Daniella MacTire: “Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring.”

Jaekob Faolan: “ ...according to the religious teaching of Moses and Israel.”

Daniella MacTire: “ ...according to the religious teaching of Moses and Israel.”

Jaekob Faolan: "I betroth you to me forever.”

Daniella MacTire: "I betroth you to me forever.”

Jaekob Faolan: "I betroth you to me with steadfast love and compassion.”

Daniella MacTire: “I betroth you to me with steadfast love and compassion..”

Jaekob Faolan: "I betroth you to me in faithfulness."

Daniella MacTire: “I betroth you to me in faithfulness.”

Josiah MacTire looks over his shoulder at the assembled, particularly the men, and gives a very satisfied lupine sneeze.

Jaekob Faolan smiles at both of them.

Daniella MacTire smiles back.

Jaekob Faolan: "Now I would ask you to make your vows to each other. Josiah? Please turn to Dani and make your vows!"

Josiah MacTire gives him a grin and a wink.

Josiah MacTire: "Daniella..."

Josiah MacTire takes her hands in his paws and looks down into her eyes.

Daniella MacTire melts. Puppy dog eyes. Works every time.

Josiah MacTire: "Once upon a time... there was a woman and her wolf."

Josiah MacTire: "They met long ago and far away, and fell into one another's arms in a whirl of laughter and poetry and arguments and passion. Wherever they went, people stared in a mixture of bemusement and envy... how could two people so different be so happy?"

Daniella MacTire remembers. You can see it in her eyes.

Josiah MacTire smirks a little.

Josiah MacTire: "Hell, how could two people be so happy, period? It wasn't fair!"

Josiah MacTire: "Well, that didn't stop us. For five years across more than one grid, we've walked hand in hand, woman and wolf. We always felt like we were two lonely people sharing a cuddle beanbag in a large and uncaring universe."

Daniella MacTire nods.

Josiah MacTire: "That is... until we came HERE."

Daniella MacTire smiles.

Josiah MacTire smiles at the assembled, with gratitude.

Daniella MacTire does, too.

Josiah MacTire: "This community has welcomed us with open arms, given us friendship and stature and respect, repaid our efforts tenfold. So it is fitting that we take our vows here, before such an amazing, wonderful community."

Daniella MacTire agrees and nods.

Josiah MacTire: "Of course, it would all be meaningless to me without you to share it with."

Josiah MacTire strokes her cheek gently.

Daniella MacTire doesn't look as if she's cry at all. Nosiree.

Daniella MacTire melts. Again.

Josiah MacTire: "So... this day, I marry my partner in crime, my foil, my co-writer, my Goddess, my love slave, my sympathetic listener, my precious treasure... and the best friend I have ever had, in this or any other Universe."

Daniella MacTire has epic fail and cries.

Josiah MacTire raises her hands to his muzzle, kisses them, and lets her go.

Daniella MacTire smiles at him, tears running down her face.

Josiah MacTire licks away her tears. Wolf, you know.

Daniella MacTire kicks her typist who might be crying a tiny, weeny bit.

Jaekob Faolan: "Marvelous. Now Dani, turn to Josiah and make your vows."

Daniella MacTire takes a deep breath.

Josiah MacTire smiles encouragingly.

Daniella MacTire: "My wonderful Josiah! As I go about my business here in The Great Canadian Grid, I find that many of its lovely residents are not aware I have a betrothed, as you are not here as often as I am."

Daniella MacTire: ... I think they know now, though.

Daniella MacTire grins.

Daniella MacTire: "With these vows I want everyone to realise, and especially you to realise, that you are ALWAYS with me."

Josiah MacTire smiles a little.

Daniella MacTire: When someone sees me smile at them, they aren't just seeing my happiness because they are there. They are also seeing the happiness in my heart because I love you, and am loved by you.

Daniella MacTire: "When I am helping someone, it is not just that I am taking time out because of the goodness of my heart. It is because I am acting in a way that honours you, for it is what you would do. You're doing it through me."

Josiah MacTire doesn't whimper and eardroop, nope. No trembling chin either.

Daniella MacTire: "When I am cheeky in chat, and I make people laugh, it is not because that is my nature alone."

Daniella MacTire: "It is because I think of you, and your personality shines through me, and you're with me, making me confident to be myself. It's Dani and Jo... even if one of us isn't there."

Daniella MacTire: "When someone feels that I care for them, then that is because of you, too. You have allowed me to feel cared for - and when someone knows how that feels, they can care for others with joy."

Daniella MacTire: "When someone says they are my friend, it is because they have enjoyed the person I am, that you helped to make. I am what I am because of you, because of who YOU are."

Josiah MacTire nods.

Daniella MacTire: "I can be a friend, because I know what it is like to have true friend that time, distance and circumstance cannot take away."

Daniella MacTire: "I vow to show my love for you in everything I do, because I do love you, Josiah MacTire. I vow to make sure the grid can see the wonderful person you are, by being as wonderful as I can be, made so by your love."

Daniella MacTire: "I vow to truly be your other half in as many ways as I am able, and to let people see what two halves are like, whether you are here or not. Thank you for being you, for being my friend, and for letting me love you."

Daniella MacTire: "I will be proud to call you my husband, but I'm already proud I can call you my friend."

Josiah MacTire dabs at his eyes. Stupid speck of dirt.

Daniella MacTire takes another breath and turns back to Jaekob.

Jaekob Faolan nods and beams

Jaekob Faolan: “Ladies and Gentlemen! The couple have exchanged tokens of their love and made vows to each other in the sight of their gods. The elements have been duly called and will now be dismissed with the very last thing needed before I may pronounce the couple husband and wife. Josaiah – the glass!"

Josiah MacTire stands up straight.

Jaekob Faolan silently reaches down to the table and picks up a crystal goblet, which he then wraps in several layers of white silk. He steps around the table and lays it down in front of Josiah, then steps back.

Daniella MacTire looks radiant over really runny mascara.

Josiah MacTire looks down at the glass.

Josiah MacTire begins to chant in a solemn voice, ancient words in Hebrew.

Josiah MacTire: "Im eshkachech Yerushalayim, 
tishkach yemini...
tid'bak leshoni lechiki,
Im-lo ezkereichi."

Josiah MacTire: "If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning."

Josiah MacTire: "Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, yea, verily, as though glued there by peanut butter, if I remember thee not!"

 Daniella MacTire raises an eyebrow.

Josiah MacTire really hopes Jaekob remembered the layer of Kevlar in with the silk, or this is really going to hurt. He takes a deep breath, raises his foot, and brings it down hard on the glass with a very satisfying CRUNCH!

The Wedding Kiss

Jaekob Faolan raises his hands upward.

Jaekob Faolan: “Ladies and Gentlemen – I give you Mr and Mrs Josiah MacTire!”

The Happy Couple! Josiah and Daniella MacTire

The Wedding Dance

.

The Druid Looks for Life

Jaekob Faolan walks about the darkened land, the burned trees and earth inanimate, dead. There was no life in this area, once overrun by lush forests and bushes.

Jaekob Faolan kneels and pushes his palm against the hardened ground. He sighs and mumbles low to himself,  "No sign of life... even the earth is dead." He lifts his hand to smell the ash that covered the area and his nose flared as the smell of sulphur overtook him.

Jaekob Faolan digs his fingers into the ground and swallows hard when even inches down, there is nothing but hard earth bereft life's energy.

The Druid Looks for Life

Jaekob Faolan stands and makes his way back to his cottage and moves toward his desk. He quickly grabs his quill and pens a short message on a piece of parchment.

Jaekob Faolan: "Xella," the missive begins. "Can you come to Calenhad. I would talk with you more about the Demon... to make sure I have knowledge of everything you know." And he folds the parchment and dipping his seal into melted wax, he affixes it to the fold.

Jaekob Faolan's voice came out loud and clear, "Guard," he says, his face barren of any expression. "Take this to Xella forthwith. It is of the utmost import." And as the guard leaves, he begins to pace about, chewing on his lower lip

Smeagol Raids the Infirmary in Cheshire

So you recently read about Smeagol's little crisis hmm? It seems he is having an issue with a rash which is caused by his faithful friend Fish. Though, he does not realize it. If you back read some of Smeagol's posts, you will understand the cause and what he thinks is the cure for his problem. Smeagol's latest role play is posted here! Smeagol mostly does solo role plays. Though he looks like the famed Smeagol of the same name in LoTR, he is NOT designed after this character and has his own personality. He is a gentler soul, truly.

Smeagol Shade wanders about the ruins, his belly now past the point of irritation. The sores are festered and oozing. The mudpacks he made earlier were soothing, but they did nothing to cure the "rash" on his stomach.

Smeagol Shade: "Us has a problem," he says hugging Fish close to his chest unaware that Fish is HIS problem. "Us is getting worse and Us needs to go to  the town and get some better leaves for healing Us." Then he looks closer at Fish and his eyes widen, his malformed head twists as if in thought." Us both is sick. Us has rashes and Us has sharp stickers on the skin."

Smeagol Hides in a Corn Patch

Smeagol Shade jumps up, well as best as he can jump in his current state and moving like an animal slips out of his familiar ruins and heads toward the Port City of Cheshire. He moves quietly, something he learned long ago. He had no friends, no allies save his dear friend Fish and he truly believed that his grotesqueness would cause people to harm him. And so he moved quietly, slipping through bushes, hiding  behind trees until he came to the gates of Cheshire. "Us has a problem," he said to Fish, holding the stuffed animal up, facing him toward the gate, so he could get a better look. "Us has to slip by the guards,"

Smeagol Shade slips around the city, hugging the tall, thick walls that fortifies the city and protects its citizens. As he all but slithers about, he notices a tree, bent much like his fragile little body. It's limbs hang over the massive wall. His eyes brighten and he hugs Fish even tighter to his chest. "Us has an idea. Us can climb the tree and drop close to the healer's house," and he nods imagining Fish gives his approval. Slowly, he climbs the bent tree, his long boney fingers digging into the bark. As he reaches the wall, he grins a big grin, pushing the grin onto his face despite the pain he is in.

Smeagol Shade tucks Fish into his loin cloth and grasps the limb. He  lets his body slide down until he is hanging there, the limb not quite as strong as he had hoped for. It breaks and he hits the cobblestone with a loud thud. He looks about, "Us found it. Us found the healer's house. And slipping close to it, he peers into the room and sees only a sleeping patient. Again, holding Smeagol close to his chest, he slips around, careful of any people, careful of the guards and pushes the door open and quickly shuts it behind him

Smeagol Shade: "Us did it," he whispers. "Us can get some healing now," and he moves quickly toward the herb cabinet with its vast array of potions and salves and herbs. He lays Smeagol on the table and finding a jar of salve, a jar he chose by its looks and not it's ingredients, he opens it and pokes his hand in getting a big dollop of the salve. Gently, he wipes the salves onto Fish. "Us fixed you., Now Us must fix Us." And he wipes the salve onto his chest so that it is layered thick and heavy. He takes a deep breath and begins to rummage through the cabinet pushing things this way and that, some dropping to the floor. He turns to look at the sleeping elf then quickly grabs a jar of salve and then another. He sees some herbs drying and clueless as to what they are, he grabs a handful and begins to make his way out of the infirmary.

Smeagol and the Salve

Smeagol Shade: "Us did it. Us is cured now." And with a bit of a smile, Fish clutched hard to his chest he makes his way back to the ruins he calls home.

El Caribe - Bedouin Desert

                    Desert lands in the far south, rumored to be inhabited by the Djinn of ancient lore. Lands of the Bedouins....a mostly nomadic culture of desert dwellers. Its peoples have splintered into gypsies who chose to continue to wander throughout the lands, bandits who prey on weary travelers, and permanent residents who comprise the royal houses and staff. See above tab for more information and pics.

Come Dance at El Caribe

Joy and Sorrow

Many of us have felt the pain of losing loved ones... the citizens of the River Lands Roleplay Community have a special place to go to remember those who have gone before us, or just to quietly reflect on the wonderful people and things that are part of our lives.

As part of our commitment to Relay for Life we have held events in the past year to raise money and awareness for those suffering from cancer. Luminaries are a sign of hope that one day this dreaded disease will be conquered and a sign that we are grateful for those who have battled and survived, but are also a ray of light in memory of people we have lost and still miss in our daily lives (not only those who have had cancer, but also anyone we have loved and lost in this lifetime).

Everyone is welcome to journey to the River Lands and place a Luminary if they so wish... there is a hypergrid gate at the Welcome Area that takes you directly to Remembrance Bridge, where you will find a Luminary on the wooden platform that may be copied and the name of your loved one placed on it).

"Those we love don't go away, 

They walk beside us every day. 

Unseen, unheard, but always near, 

Still loved, still missed and forever dear." 

(Author unknown)

Remembrance Bridge with floating Luminaries

Summer Solstice in the River Lands

Our thanks to everyone for joining us on this very important day - old friends and new friends.

Jaekob Faolan stands quietly at the altar as everyone gathers. He offers a smile and nods  to the gathering.

Master Druid Jaekob Faolan

Jaekob Faolan looks out amongst the gathering, his gaze calm and humble, "My brothers and sisters, all. I would ask you to open your minds and hearts, to find balance. Perhaps, watch the sky, feel the air as it dances on your flesh, listen to the water lap onto the banks or watch the fire within the circle."

Jaekob Faolan  nods a gentle smile, giving them a moment to reflect and feel the calm of the ceremony. Then he lifts his arms out, palms upward. He closes his eyes and looks upward as he wills his breathing to slow, his thoughts to become calm and balanced.

Jaekob Faolan  begins to speak softly, "Hear me, Spirits of the Land, you within the stones and streams, the beasts and air, you within the fire."

Jaekob Faolan moves closer to the fire and kneels onto one knee in front of altar whereupon sits a small ceramic bowl, lays a bundle of sage and rosemary and a small unlit candle.

Jaekob Faolan  breathes deeply, willing his body to seek balance as inaudible thoughts become words. "I invoke you, the elements. I ask humbly you receive this our offering as we pass from one season to the next.  During the Summer Solstice, the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest - the veil between our world and the world of the fay - the wee folks, the fairies. "

Jaekob Faolan looks toward the altar and slowly begins to gather items, a few well used sticks, several small worn stones and a small pouch of herbs, sage, chamomile and lavender. All of these he places into the small bowl of water. Then he rises. He takes the bowl, cradling it in his hands, gazing into it, swirling the contents and smiles as the bowl seems to come alive in his hands.

the Solstice Ceremony

Jaekob Faolan moves slowly around the inside of the circle, smudging all in his wake. He slowly makes his way back to the altar and sits the bowl beside the lit candle.

Jaekob Faolan looks amongst the gathering, from one to the next, his countenance balanced.

Jaekob Faolan looks to the South. Saphira, will you speak to the fire, invoke it to aid us as we pass from one season onto the next?

Saphira Mistwalker smiles and turns to the South, standing straight and puffing a small burst of flame into the air.

Saphira Mistwalker, Dragon

Saphira Mistwalker hisses out a chant in the tongue of her people, then translates it for all to hear:

Saphira Mistwalker:
Guardians of life's fire,
Fulfill our hearts' desire.
Bless us with warmth and light.
Bring Summer's bounty for our delight.
Guide us as the seasons turn.
Make passion and love within us burn.

Saphira Mistwalker turns back to face the center.

Jaekob Faolan: Thank you Lady Saphira

Jaekob Faolan  turns to the North, Xella will you speak to the earth, invoke it to aid us as we pass from one season to the next?

Xella Steward: smiles at the crowd that's gathered. She kneels on the earth and places a hand on it, so she can feel its pulse and life. She places her other hand on her heart and bows her head. In her foreign accent, she intones:

Xella, Siren, and Ron

Xella Steward: "Spirits of Earth, in root and tree,
Harken as I speak to Thee,
Guide us safely from the light,
To times of dark and longer nights.

Xella Steward: By rock and stone, by flower and leaf,
By mountains high and plains beneath,
Let your strength be ours, let us endure,
From Summer to Winter, each step be sure.

Xella Steward: I offer here my sacred token - let the circle be safe and unbroken!"

Xella Steward: rises and moves to the altar, where she places four twigs to represent the four directions, tied with green ribbon to represent the element of earth.

Jaekob Faolan nods and smiles at Xella. "Thank you my dear friend."

 Xella Steward steps back and nods
The words spoken for Earth was written by our friend, Daniella MacTire. Thank you Dani.

 Jaekob Faolan turns to the East, "Giselle will you speak to the air, invoke it to aid us as we pass from one season to the next?"

Gisele Leemon flies up and  raises her arms as if to embrace someone.

Gisele, Faery

Gisele Leemon: "Oh Sidhe Goddess of the wind come, fly down to us on the wings of the great Eagle, so that we may embrace you with our arms outstretched, blow our hair and let us feel your power. fill our lungs with your healing power. This we pray to you in our seeking hour."

"Beings of the Air, Guardians of the East. come be welcome in this sacred place. let us stand firm in your embrace. Whisper my wishes on every wind that circles the earth."

"Gaurdians of the air thank you for lending your energy to our celebration . Hail and farewell."

 Jaekob Faolan turns to the West, "Druid Sister Fitheach will you speak to the water, invoke it to aid us as we pass from one season to the next?"

Fitheach Eun turns to face the west; she bends down and cups a handful of water from the bowl and stands, letting it flow slowly back out onto the earth.

Arch Druid Fitheach Eun

Fitheach Eun speaks solemnly:

Fitheach Eun: "The turning Wheel of the Year has made the light ever stronger
And the light has kept growing longer, until today."

Fitheach Eun: "From here, the light begins to fade again,
Until once more the Wheel turns to the time of darkness."

Fitheach Eun: "Today we celebrate the light, for tomorrow that light will wane. Today we acknowledge the end of the waxing year, and the beginning of the waning time."

Fitheach Eun: "Spirits of the water; givers and maintainers of life; sustain us as the year ebbs and the world grows darker."

Fitheach Eun: "Lend us the joy of your flowing streams; the serenity of your still pools, as we face the growing dark."

Fitheach Eun: "Keep us ever focused on the light."

Jaekob Faolan smiles at Fitheach, "Thank you my Druid Sister."

Jaekob Faolan: As the last one speaks, he turns his gaze back to the fire and lifts his arms upward as if to touch the sky and speaks softly.

 "We have gathered, we have spoken words of praise and thanks and now we would give our brethren a moment to bestow their thanks upon this day."

Jaekob Faolan: "If any would like to speak please do so now."

Gisele Leemon steps forward.

Jaekob Faolan nods and smiles to Gisele.

Gisele Leemon: "I give my humble prayer for our lands and all our neighbors hope that we may overcome our difficulties."

Jaekob Faolan: "Thank you Gisele. Would any other like to speak?"

Talia.Sunsong steps forward'

Gisele Leemon nods to the King Druid

Jaekob Faolan: Lady Talia, please speak your words.

Talia.Sunsong: : "I pray for health bestowed on those here and all the beings of the land."

Jaekob Faolan closes his eyes and wills his breathing to slow, his mind to calm and feels a soothing tremble pulse through him, "The green returns to the earth, the rains and storms have come to cleanse the soil and prepare it for the seed.. We give you thanks for the one season which this day closes to us and thanks for the new season which opens to us."

Jaekob Faolan drops his arms to his side and meditates a moment before opening his eyes and letting his gaze move around the circle. "Our task is done, my friends. All go in peace and honour this season as you pass through it."

Jaekob Faolan: "If you wish to stay, let us celebrate Midsummer by dancing around the fire. Bonfires are lit throughout the lands to protect us against evil spirits which roam freely at this time."

Amongst the Shadows

   Amethyst paces Druid Cottage restlessly, unable to contain her anxiety and unsure whether to act upon her conscience or heed the Druid's warning and remain at home in safety.

   Her thoughts return to the previous evening... Jaek had returned late to find her, once again, asleep on the sofa, the fire long burnt out as she waited for his return. She had become accustomed to being alone, Jaek spending most of his waking hours in Calenhad, deep in discussion with his trusted Elven Council or, during the last week, in the Infirmary, watching over the Gypsy, Kathena, trying to utilise all his Druid knowledge to revive her.

   Amethyst sighed, she hadn't been to see Kat since the Arch Druid, Fitheach, had succeeded in bringing her back from the brink of death. Jaek had forbidden it. He had taken her hand and assured her that Kat was well taken care of, but that her wounds were not such as he wanted her to see.

   She shook her head... no, it would not do. Whatever Jaek thought he was protecting her from by exacting her promise to remain at the Cottage, busy with her writings, could not stop her from going to check on the animals she nurtured and tended. There was always an injured bird or a newborn wolf pup that might need some assistance and she had built up a book full of knowledge of simple herbal remedies and such, that often eased injuries or pain for the smaller creatures. Much of what she knew was entwined with memories of her grandmother, a village healer... untrained, yet wise and always well respected until her death.

   Her mind made up, she quickly threw a light cape over her shoulders and grabbed her basket with the mix of salves, tinctures and cloth bandages and headed out of the Cottage towards the forest.

   As her eyes adjusted to the heavily shadowed woods, her mind quietened and her senses sharpened.            Her apprehension at breaking her promise to Jaek was quelled. She had listened to his daily reports when he arrived home, weary and troubled, but she had never told him that she knew that he was not telling her half of what was occurring in the Lands. 

   Juste, her Hobbit friend, had not been so careful with hiding his news and through him, she had heard about Drows and Demons, death and decay invading this peaceful realm. Juste visited near daily, bringing her the pies she loved and later meat for "da Druid", agitated and well-meaning as ever as he gave her his gifts and babbled excitedly, "da Druid needs some of da foods so he can fight da demon and da dowries.!" 

The attack on Kathena may have scared the wee Hobbit enough to keep him from journeying through the woods to visit her, but the increased pleas from Jaek to remain at home had been enough for her to realise that the danger was increasing and the Druids and Rangers were surely planning to avenge the deaths and rid the Lands of its enemies.

   She shuddered as she dwelled on the danger Jaek was most likely in. She couldn't bear to lose him. Breathing deeply to steady her nerves, she concentrated on the task she had left the cottage to do. Her eyes scoured the woods, the underbrush and hidey-holes that each creature chose for its own safety.

   But as she penetrated deeper into the forest, her steps quickened. The smell of burnt wood surrounded her and was soon followed by her arrival at blackened soil, her boots sinking into ashen ground. She turned and surveyed the scene, but as far as she could see, the earth was black, dead, but not long so, as slithers of smoke still wafted lazily upwards.

   Her senses going into overdrive, Amethyst listened hard for any sounds, her instincts leading her to back up towards a large oak tree. She carefully stepped over the fallen, burnt trunk of another mighty tree and reaching the Oak, placing her basket to her feet, she leans against the tree, her eyes moving hastily over the area ahead.

Trying to steady her breath, she jumped but managed to stifle a scream as she heard a whimpering sound nearby.

Trembling, she peered down and around the trunk, and nearly cried out with relief as she spies a lone piglet, cowering at the base of the tree.

Amethyst and the Piglet

   Sliding downwards she soothes the piglet with whispered assurances, seeing that it appears uninjured, but somehow separated from its mother. Her hand reached toward the frightened animal, slowly allowing the piglet time to see that she meant it no harm. Looking around, she sees no sign of the mother, and as the piglet snuffles against her outstretched hand, she gazes lovingly at the wee critter and tells it in a soothing tone that it is safe and she will be taking it home until its mother can be found.

   Carefully moving around the trunk, she scoops the unprotesting animal into her arms, gathering her basket and moving carefully away from the burnt area towards to woods heading for the Cottage. 

   Just a few paces from the Oak Tree her gaze falls upon a bloody trail to the left of the path and as her eyes cut to the trail's end, she sees the massacred remains of the mother sow, tossed aside towards some bushes.

   Rapidly walking onwards, her hands tighten around the piglet, its legs still shaking, but calm in her hold. She sobs quietly as the vision of the dead pig, bloody and lifeless, fills her mind. Who could possibly kill an innocent creature and leave it without a second thought. Amethyst sucks in a breath and concentrates her thoughts on the path she has taken. She must tell the Druid and the Rangers about her find. The Rangers will bury the sow as befits any worthy creature of the Lands. 

   She sighs as the Cottage comes into sight. Jaek will likely be livid with her for her recklessness, but she had saved the poor, motherless creature in her arms, which helped to calm her nerves.

   Now she had experienced for herself the evil overtaking the Lands. Whether the fire and the death of the pig were caused by this Demon, she could not know, but as she reached the safety of their home, fear for Jaek gripped her, for certainly Darkness had befallen the Lands and she dreaded that the Shadows were strong enough to consume them all.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Summer Solstice

   The celebration of Midsummer's Eve was from ancient times a festival of the summer solstice. Bonfires were lit to protect against evil spirits which were believed to roam freely when the sun was turning southward again.
   The bonfires are lit. It is safe to travel to the River Lands Medieval Role play Community to share Summer Solstice with us. The event is 11 am pdt Saturday at the Henge in tRLs. For more information, contact Jaekob Faolan.

   This event is IC (In Character). 

We invite all our friends from the Great Canadian Grid and elsewhere 

to join us for this special day. 

Medieval Attire or an OOC (Observer) Tag is required. 

Both are available at our welcome area at the Cheshire Docks in River City.

Market Day in the Port City of Cheshire

Due to the length of this role play, much of it was edited out. I do humbly apologize for that. And our thanks to Talia and Sunbeam for joining us this eve. It was truly a pleasure to have two new friends in our midst.

Morganza Spellway: "Hello M'Lord."

Jaekob Faolan turns his head to see the fae and nods, "Vedui milady and welcome."

Juste Rivers: "Heys der Missy Mor...Mor...ganza," "he says as he claps and dances.

Jaekob Faolan draws in a deep breath, "And how fare you hmmm?"

Morganza Spellway smiles at the Hobbit.

Morganza Spellway: "I am well M'Lord, but I hear you are not."

Juste Rivers: "Mees got some of dem pig chops and some pie wif da nuts and some," inhales deeply, "a cake wif da fruits for da selling."

Jaekob Faolan raises a brow, "And why am I not well milady?"

Morganza Spellway: "My maid, Gisele, told me of your countless hours with your friend and patient Lady Kat."

Morganza Spellway: "Is she much better I hope?

Jaekob Faolan turns to Juste, "Save me one of those pies hmmm." And he turns back to fae looking at her curiously.

Morganza Spellway: "You see, I met Lady Kat in the forest some time ago."

Jaekob Faolan: "Ah. yes. Kat regained.... well.... she is up and about," he says offering a small smile.

Jaekob Faolan: "Mees done sent Missy Kathena some pig chops to da firmmentary."

Morganza Spellway: "That is good. I hope she quells her foolish actions in future. She seems to be a very sweet person."

Jaekob Faolan: "Actions? What actions hmmm? And, yes, she is a dear friend."

Morganza Spellway: "She hinted at her intentions the day we met concerning the Demon."

Jaekob Faolan simply nods, not wanting to share overly much with the fae, "Well she fares well enough. And...thank you for your concern."

Morganza Spellway turns to Juste.

Jaekob Faolan nods, "I was just taking a look at what Juste has brought. Some mighty tasty look food."

Morganza Spellway: "Juste may I have the rose petal cheese cake?"

Saphira Mistwalker smiles. "Greetings everyone."

Juste Rivers: "Heys der Missy Dragon Saphira."

Morganza Spellway: "Hello Mighty Dragon lady."

Juste Rivers: "Ow you bees a'doing. Mees got some might good foods for da selling today."

Jaekob Faolan turns to the dragon, a smile curling onto his face, "Milady, I believe we have met, but hmmm I do not recall your name."

Juste Rivers: "You steal mees cake and da Druid gone send da rangers fer to get you."

Fitheach Eun: "Jaek?"

Juste Rivers: "If you wants to buy one, it bees five of dem copper pieces."

Fitheach Eun: "I need to talk to you, please."

Saphira Mistwalker smiles and nods. "I am Saphira Mistwalker, envoy from the shadow dragon clan."

Jaekob Faolan turns hearing her voice, "Vedui my Druid sister," and he smiles softly.

Fitheach Eun: Vedui, my lord; I must speak with you, please."

Jaekob Faolan nods and steps closer, nodding to the other side of the gate, "Shall we step over there?"

Jaekob Faolan: "What is it my sister?" he says a look of concern in his eyes.

Fitheach Eun walks to the gate and waits just outside, trying to conceal her agitation.

Fitheach Eun: "There is a body on the path; one of the farmers."

Saphira Mistwalker smiles and nods to the fae who has arrived. "Greetings my lady."

Juste Rivers:" Heys der Missy," he waves an arm into the air pointing at Sunbeam. "Welcomes to da Market Day. Mees got all kinds of da food for da selling."

Fitheach Eun: "And there has been a fire in the woods near the bridge."

Jaekob Faolan: "A fire, in Calenhad?" he says running a hand through his hair. "A traveler, perhaps ,left his campfire?"

Sunbeam Magic: "Greetings."

Fitheach Eun: "But Jaek; the body," she stops and takes a deep breath;  "it has a great puncture wound in it's neck."

Fitheach Eun: "And no this fire burned along the path; I thought perhaps lightning..but now..."

Jaekob Faolan: "Body? Wha... what body?" he asks reach out to touch her arm, his body shaking. "What do you mean a body?"

Fitheach Eun: "There is a dead body on the path."

Juste Rivers: "Mees is called Juste, Missy," he says to Sunbeam. " And 'ow you bees a doing today?"

Fitheach Eun: "And the death does m not look natural."

Jaekob Faolan swallows hard and his face pales a bit. "Where.... where is this body? I must see for myself."

Sunbeam Magic: "Fine thank you young man."

Fitheach Eun: "I will show you."

Kathena Mavendorf eyes the crowd as she approaches, seeing Jaekob and Fit looking very serious. She decides to keep away for now.

Sunbeam Magic: "I heard there were tasty buns here."

Morganza Spellway walks up to Kat and givers her a hug..nice to see you up and around."

Saphira Mistwalker looks over the table and sniffs, her mouth watering. "Mmm, Juste, what is that delicious looking and smelling meat you have there?"

Jaekob Faolan follows Fit across the bridge.

Kathena Mavendorf smiles softly at the little hobbit, and the rest of the crowd gathered, "Greetings everyone."

Sunbeam Magic: "Greetings."

Morganza Spellway walks over to Kat."

Saphira Mistwalker: looks up in surprise. "Lady Kathena! Greetings!"

Kathena Mavendorf forces a small smile, "Hello M'Lady Saphira."

Kathena Mavendorf looking grim, but attempting to be strong, "I am well enough."

Sunbeam Magic: "Greetings Talia."

Kathena Mavendorf: "I hope you are all well."

Talia.Sunsong: "What a lovely day for market."

Sunbeam Magic: "And gossip."

Saphira Mistwalker smiles at the newcomer. "Greetings my lady. I am Saphira Mistwalker, envoy of the shadow dragon clan."

Morganza Spellway: "Ahh another gypsy."

Talia.Sunsong: "Freedom is the way of the gypsy,"

Juste Rivers: "Heys der Missy," he says loooking over at Talia. "Welcomes to da Market Day."

Juste Rivers: "Mees is Juste. Whut is your name?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Hello Juste, I'm am Talia Sunsong, because I like to sing on good weather days."

Juste Rivers: "Missy Kathena, 'ow you bees a'feeling? Is you better from da sickness?"

Talia.Sunsong @grid.kitely.com:8002 shudders, "It's been a long journey, but I've made it here."

Kathena Mavendorf smiles and nods at the fellow gypsy, "Greetings Miss Talia. I'm Kathena."

Sunbeam Magic: "I come from far away and ran across these lands just recently in my travels."

Juste Rivers: "Missy Talia, it is a pleasurables to meet you. Mees got some foods fer da selling. Mees got some pie wif da nuts and a cake wif da fruit and mees got some pig chops."

Kathena Mavendorf smiles softly at the hobbit, "Yes Juste, I'm better, though I am still tired, so I shall not stay long today."

Fitheach Eun: "Walking on into market, she sees Kat over by the stall and shakes her head.

Fitheach Eun: "Kat, you should not be up yet."

Kathena Mavendorf looks over her shoulder and sees the look on Fit's face and winces.

Fitheach Eun sighs with exasperation: "What are you doing out of bed?"

Kathena Mavendorf moves closer to Fit, "Now before you start giving me a talking to like Jaekob, I am perfectly fine enough to go home now."

Talia.Sunsong's stomach growls as she smells the aroma of Juste's food.

Fitheach Eun whispers to Kat: " But we have seen demon sign in the forest; it is not wise for you to go home yet."

Talia.Sunsong: "So tasty looking Juste."

Kathena Mavendorf her eyes grow dark with worry and fear, "What sort of signs Fit?"

Fitheach Eun: "Some things have been burned."

Saphira Mistwalker frowns and nods. "I noticed a smoky smell and burnt over areas as I was flying here today."

Talia.Sunsong: "Oh, perhaps, I shall try the meat and potatoes,"

Fitheach Eun looks at Saphira warningly: "Let's not tell everyone"

Kathena Mavendorf ponders for a moment, "anyone can burn a forest Fit. I will go home."

Juste Rivers: "Oh da pig chops is very good. Mees cooked em myself." And he begins to bundle up a plate of the food and offers it to her. "Dat will bees five of da copper coins, Missy Talia."

Fitheach Eun grabs Kats arm to detain her and whispers again: "There was more than burned forest."

Talia.Sunsong opens her small person and counts out 5 coppers. "Ahh, I shall enjoy this. Do you farm?"

Fitheach Eun motions to Lady Saphira to come closer.

Kathena Mavendorf looks at Fit's eyes closely, understanding her meaning...."It's my fault. If only I'd.....finished him."

Juste Rivers takes the coins and quickly stuffs them in his pouch, "No missy Talia. Mees buy da foods from da farmers. And da nuts and berries and such, mees picks up in da forest."

Fitheach Eun: "He will be finished or banished soon."

Talia.Sunsong: "You are an industrious one, a hobbit?"

Fitheach Eun smiles at Kat: "And you did try your best."

Kathena Mavendorf eyes tear up a bit and she swallows hard keeping her composure, nodding to Fit. "sadly it wasn't enough."

Fitheach Eun: "We will get him, Kat; never fear."

Kathena Mavendorf shoulders drop, looking deeply disappointed, "I wish you all the luck in the world and may all the gods and elements help you in your quest. I shall keep out of your way, but I will return to my home."

Fitheach Eun looks at Kat with concern...and the turns to the intruding fae, a bit annoyed,

Talia.Sunsong: "Do try the meal plate, it is delicious."

Sunbeam Magic: "It is my pleasure to meet you Juste ... your food looks very tasty."

Kathena Mavendorf uses the interruption to attempt to leave, "M'Ladies, have a great day" turns and begins to walk to the bridge.

Fitheach Eun: /mr turns quickly, "Kat, please don't go."

Fitheach Eun: "Excuse me a moment."

Kathena Mavendorf turns to face them both, looking quite defeated, "I just want to go home."

 Fitheach Eun: 'Please wait until Jaek returns, Kat>"

 Kathena Mavendorf looks visibly shaken, her hands trembling a little with a mix of fear and hate.

Fitheach Eun takes Kat's arm gently: Come back and sit down; i will make you some tea, Kat."

Kathena Mavendorf looks at the fae with a look of shock and anger, "I think he will finish the job regardless Miss!" she says louder than she means to and follows Fit as she pulls her away.

Saphira Mistwalker stands up straighter. "I do not fear the demon for myself, but I fear what it may do in these lands. I only hope I can be of some service in vanquishing it."

Sunbeam Magic: "Did I hear talk of Solstice celebration?"

Juste Rivers: "Yes Missy Sunbeam, it will be at 11 a.m. Saturday."

Talia.Sunsong taps her feet in anticipation of dancing on solstice.

Sunbeam Magic: "Oh goody," claps her hands.  "I will still be in the area and can attend if strangers are welcomed ?"

Juste Rivers: "You shoulds comes. Da Druids and da peoples gone have a good celebratory. And all da peoples (from the grid) are welcome."

Sunbeam Magic: "Summer Solstice is my favorite. I was named for the summer seasons."

Saphira Mistwalker smiles. "It is well-liked by dragons too."

Sunbeam Magic smiles at Saphira.

Talia.Sunsong: "You won't be sacrificing virgins right?" gulps.

Sunbeam Magic: "Sacrificing is still practiced in these lands, oh my !"

Talia.Sunsong tries to read the smile as a "yes" or "no" on sacrifices.

Juste Rivers giggles then looks a bit frightened and runs behind his stall, "You better not be one of dem people whut is after my bachelor days. Don't you knows talking like dat makes da babies," And remembering his last encounter with a girl hobbit, he crawls under the stall.

Sunbeam Magic giggles auspiciously at little Juste.

Saphira Mistwalker shakes her head and hisses laughter at the "brave" hobbit.

Talia.Sunsong: "I won't take your bachelor days, Juste."

Talia.Sunsong  holds up two fingers "Gypsy scouts honor, Juste, I promise to not act like a girl hobbit."