[Animayhem]

His meditation was interrupted by the sound of bird's wings. The bird dropped the letter which was from Amalia. He shook his head as he read it. It was like reading a child's temper tantrum. He stood and tossed the letter in the fire.

"Confound that woman. Did she not even read it? "

Sighing, he penned another letter and had it sent then went back home , stood in front of the fireplace and stared at the flames. He voiced his thoughts. His voice tinged with anger but an even tone.

" I admitted I had heard some things after our meeting in Bezantur. That we were probably both upset about Alyisse and now that it was over we could clear the air. I explained why I left when I did. It hurt me to see her almost have to beg Tyrael to talk to me and then only while he was watching. She called me a false friend. How was I? Was it because I had to believe her and not have my own thoughts?
In her letter she turns around and does things she accused me of.

If anyone was false,it was her. After she started her business and interest in Max and Tyrael she did not even notify me she had bought a home. She was upset I had wished to consider her like a sister as I thought since neither of us had a family we could be. Hells even siblings and friends fight but if they really wish to stay friends they sit down and talk."

He had stopped and went to get a drink. He returned to the bear rug and sat in front of the fire and continued.

"Milena had no problem when I asked if we could be siblings. Naturally we did not expect to change as it had. Is Amalia afraid it might?
I have no intention of it being so. Besides she has Tyrael. She claimed I had hurt her with my words yet she has hurt me. I never claimed I was perfect, hells I am only human, flesh and blood not metal. I have feelings as well.

He took another pull off his mug. His voice was soft and almost a whisper.

"Mayhap I feel too much."

He quickly downed the last of his ale and set it on the floor. He had not noticed that after he had spoken,a single tear ran down his left cheek.

[Animayhem]

As was his custom, after meditations, he would go to the dummies and practice. He stopped as he overheard one of the Tyraturos legionnaires speaking to another.

"Hey man have you heard? A chance to make some gold. Better than what we get now.", the first one said.

The second replied," What ya on about?"

The other replied, " I was in the Trident when I heard two others talkin'. They bes sayin,

Tharchion Hezass Nymar is looking for mercenaries of all sorts to help bolster his forces as they march upon Aglarond! Soon, his army will depart the Keep of Sorrows and descend the First Escarpment towards to country of The Simbul!

" Hmm" the other was thinking about it and saw the excitement in his comrades eyes. " I say we do it. Things here too dang dull."

Marister gripped the hilt of his blades hard. He had heard it from the Hierarch's own lips. He refused and he felt torn. He had friends in Aglarond and friends who will be assisting in the attack. He had done his best and as he began his practice, he wondered how many more people he knew would he lose.

[Animayhem]

The recent days, had been busy and yielded almost as many questions as answers. Having finished his practice and feeling he needed some quiet time, he decided that a trip to the Druidess's Shrine would work. Sheathing his blades, he began the walk to north Tyraturos. It was a beautiful morning and the sun felt good on his face.

He arrived, opened the gate, filled his flask with the pure water, took a long drink refilled it and put it back. He stopped and knelt at the pillar offering up prayers to the Father, Mother and Daughter. He then sat down on the one the benches taking deep breaths. Normally he would call Mashoed to stand guard but he did not wish to alarm the other people around so he summoned Mikka, the small wolf who looked enough like a small dog for people not to notice. Mikka came to him wagging her tail. Marister bent down and scratched her behind the ears and asked her to lie by him and keep alert.

He listened to the soft sound of the rustling leaves as he looked at the great oak before him. It reminded him of Kallien Black, a ranger of Silvanus. They instantly became friends as they had similar skills and in a sense similar gods as he worshiped the Father and the Mother and Daughter. Daeris was the one who introduced us as she and Kallien where quite close. *A ghost of a frown plays upon his features before he continues his thoughts*

For awhile the three of them would go on adventures though sometimes it would only be himself and Kallien or himself and Daeris. One day he and Kallien took some time to have a discussion and to learn more about each other.

*Marister chuckled quietly to himself as the next memories surfaced.*

He had asked Kallien if he could call him Kal and Kallien said he did not mind. Marister had then told Kal that he looked up to him as a father figure as he felt that father's usually teach their sons their craft. His comment caught Kal of guard and rather then being angry Kal was reflective for a moment. He chuckled and thanked me for the compliment as indeed was old enough to be. He agreed to instruct me as a friend. Kal was good on his word and when it seemed he could teach Marister any more, Kal decided to take him to the sacred grove of Silvanus.

Marister was in awe when they arrived as it looked like a larger version of the Druidess's shrine. After a brief introduction to the arch druid, they went inside the sanctuary. Again Marister was impressed especially by the four statues which surrounded the garden fountain. They were Silvanus, Chauntea, Mielikki and Eldath. After some time, Marister returned to Tyraturos as Kal had wanted to stay for a bit.

His memory then returned to the last time he and Kal spoke which was prior to the Druidess leaving for a sabbatical at the Grove. Kal had mentioned he really was not a devout follower not even of Mask whom he honored, however it seemed to Marister something had changed. Kal had mentioned that the Druidess asked him to be a steward to the Shrine when she left and that the Druidess wanted Marister to also watch the grounds. Marister felt honored and had noticed a sense of peace around Kal as he left.

Feeling a bit stiff having sat on the stone bench for sometime, Marister got up and walked about the grounds. In returning to the bench he took a moment to look at the mushrooms and for what ever reason they reminded him of Daeris.

---

Having finished his meal, Marister looking at the mushrooms, started to think about Daeris.

He had met Daeris almost as soon as he soon as he arrived. She seemed apprehensive of him at first, but learned later that she was that way to everyone. He was not surprised she worked for the Temple. He was glad she was not collared as so many Elves were and that eventually a trust was built between them. Outwardly, as she explained to him, she need to seem neutral and indifferent to her surroundings.In truth she is a caring soul, especially in regards to her fellow elves and she would often "look" after them.

For the most part they got along well and adventured with each other and other groups as Daeris was in demand for her scouting skills and knowledge of how to travel around Dilomat's tower. For awhile it seemed she was constantly on the move. Eventually it died down and she was able to fade into the shadows for awhile.

Their friendship however, almost did not survive when Sila entered the picture. It was a strain to all involved. Eventually it straightened itself out. Before her leaving to join the gnoll, Sila had given him things to give to her and which he did.

Daeris personal life however was in turmoil and he was honored that he trusted her to talk about. He offered what advice he could and said he would be there if he could to help her.

*His thoughts were momentarily interrupted as a legionnaire on horseback rode by*

He had actually just come form speaking to her in regards to the Hierarch's announcement and about Alyisse. He was satisfied overall in the outcome of the auction, but was gravely concerned that she and Alyisse would be forced to go. He told her he would have no ill will to her or Alyisse and would pray that they both be spared.

Dusk was approaching and the wind shifted slightly, as it did the fragrance of the flowers around the tree assailed his nostrils. As he inhaled the scent his mind went to Alyisse and hoped he could see her once more before that dreaded raid. Daeris had mentioned it would be all right. He would rest and head out to Amruthar the next morning.

[Animayhem]

He thanked the Goddesses he got to see Alyisse. She looked well. She was poised and confident in her new role. She looked much better than when they last met.He could not stay long as she had an appointment to keep. Despite his misgivings at the auction, the arrangement between the Tribune and Daeris was the best outcome she could have.

He had not intended to see her so soon but its seems fate decided otherwise. He had just finished his sword practice when he ran into to recent acquaintances.
Hiro a paladin of Tyr and Hargrid a paladin of Hoar. The three of them rested and talked for a bit in his home. Hargrid mentioned he had a task at the Amruthar crypts.Hiro volunteered to assist and would go with them and Marister would cast wards upon them. After they fought some undead in front of the crypts, Marister cast the wards and wished them success and then headed for Daeris home.

He arrived and noone was about so he decided to go upstairs to the bath. After he was done, he went down and smelled something delicious in the kitchen. His heart skipped a beat as he knew it was Alyisse. He opened the curtain and went inside and she was there cooking. They greeted each other and she asked him to stay and try the stew. She had a lovely new dress of sapphire blue which complimented her coloring and he told her so.

He sat down having brought another chair over for Alyisse. She served him and waited for his response which was "It is quite good." After they were done, they sat in the chairs by the fireplace. He had sensed something was bothering her but did not push. A few moments later she opened up what was on her mind. It was as he thought, the upcoming raid. She had been instructed by the Tribune and Daeris that she would be a house slave and no longer have to fight. While this pleased her, she was afraid she would not be as good as she was if she had to go.

He smiled warmly at her and reassured her that she would do well but that he would be praying she and Daeris would not be involved. They talked of other things and wished each other well and he left and went to the Golden Dragon as he had a room there. He did not go directly to his room, but went to the bar and ordered a drink, trying not to let the other discussion affect him.

Now he only hoped Amalia would honor his request to meet.

[Animayhem]

He awoke the next day in his room. He had not slept well. He got dressed, went downstairs and ate. He walked out of the inn and the cool morning air felt good.
He had debated whether or not to return to Daeris's home but decided not. They had said what needed to be said and he had done all he could. He had not heard from Amalia so he decided he would head to the market on the off chance she may be by her merchant. He was in luck as she had just finished talking to him.

He greeted her in a warm, friendly tone and smiled. She was quite for a moment then she greeted him and then asked if he was here to scold her. He chuckled softly and replied no. He had just wanted to clear the air between them. Amalia did her usual routine of being the victim and the only one wronged, however after awhile she agreed to talk to him at the Golden Dragon.

She kept bringing up Bezantur, a subject he had wanted to close and move on. Eventually, though he did so first, they both apologized and realized they could have behaved better. Relieved that that matter was closed, he proceeded with more current events.

He found out that she had sold her house in Eltabbar and bought one in Moszabbar so she could be close to Tyrael as since he became Mistress Renee's Knight, he was living in Master Kalos's tower. He explained to her he could understand to some degree in his relationship with Milena. He found her reaction odd when he mentioned about the raid on Aglarond and Max and Tyrael could die.
He felt maybe she was a more private person and did not let her feelings easily show. She did soften a bit when they parted and he knew he had his friend back.

[Animayhem]

He awoke in his room at the inn in Nethjet. Today was the day of the fateful meeting at the Keep of Sorrows. He was too exhausted to set up camp as he had before. He vowed he would stay at the shrine and pray that those he cared for would be returned safely.

[Animayhem]

The solace he usually found at the Mother's shrine was disrupted by his thoughts and the news he received. As Nethjet was not far from Aglarond, he add asked the birds to inform him of anything. He winced as they relayed in scant images what they had seen. Naturally they were not full images but they and the feelings they relayed to him were enough. He still was in the dark about his friends on both sides.

He knew who they would face and a part of him felt guilty he did not tell them ahead of time. He felt however if he did that could both sides in danger as well as himself. At the end of conflict end both sides would know the other. Dearis had experience in doing nasty jobs she may not wish too, he was more concerned for Alyisse. Alyisse would be near her home in the Yuirwood and may in fact be fighting her kinsmen. Would she maybe flee and hide? *he shook his head* He knew she would not as based on their last talk she could not afford to for her sake or Daeris's. Even if she survived, how would her mind be? It was fragile to begin with. He tired not to dwell on such things and vowed he would help both of them no matter what.

He prayed he would hear some word soon.

[Animayhem]

He looked up from his meditations has he heard the flapping of bird's wings. He was relieved when he saw it was a messenger bird. He opened the letter and smiled Alyisse and Daeris had returned and Daeris had wished to talk. He prepared himself and headed to Amruthar as fast as he could.

He had arrived and only saw Daeris at her usual spot by the fire place, curled up almost in a ball. He greeted her in a soft tone and she turned to him and nodded silently, her eyes red from crying. He sat down next to her but said nothing, looking into the fire. A few moments later, she had begun to speak her voice and body trembling slightly. "It was terrible.", she had said then relayed what she experienced. She had not expected all the Elves and Druids and rangers. He had frowned and responded in a soft tone, " I knew you would face them but I felt it best not to warn you."
There was a brief flash of anger in her voice but then when the explanation was given she understood. He reassured her as best he could and did not hold her or Alyisse at fault. Daeris seemed to take comfort in that and they went to talk on other subjects.

For a short time prior to him leaving, he had held her too him almost as a parent would a child as she was that small. He released her and she said he could stay if he wished. It was not in his plan, but considering what she had gone through, she may just wish for the company or mayhap Alyisse would be back soon. He went up stairs leaving her looking at the flames.

[Animayhem]

An image unfolded before the him. He could smell the scents of the forests, hear the crackling of campfires, the joyous voices of those gathered around them. Not all were about the fire.
Two stood slightly away from the crowds, a man and a woman, their arms about each other. They seemed in a world of their own looking up at the stars. Suddenly the scene shifted to one of screams and battle cries. The couple turned around suddenly, their faces illuminated in the fires which were no longer friendly. He screamed a silent scream then awoke with a start, shaking from the image he had seen. The faces were of he and Alyisse.

He quickly took a few deep breaths, got out of the bunk and went to the bath to splash cold water on his face. He had no idea what time it was as he headed to the kitchen to get a drink. Drink in hand he sat in the on of the chairs by the fire place and took a long draught of his ale. He had barely done so, when he heard the door open. Taking another deep breath, he rose and turned to see who had entered. It was Alyisse. He smiled warmly and greeted her.

[Animayhem]

She looked well but distracted and murmured her greeting. He was not surprised as it must of been hell for her to be at that battle. Smiling warmly and in a calm and soothing voice, in Eleven,
" Allow me to get us some drinks, please sit and be comfortable."

She nodded and went to sit while he entered the kitchen to get them their drinks. He paused a moment thinking over the dream. He understood why which enabled him to become calmer. He knew he had to be for her sake. He poured another dark ale for himself and a white wine for Alyisse. He exited the kitchen with the drinks and smiled when he saw her at her old place by the fire on the cushions. He reached down and gave her the goblet. She took it and held it in her hands, her gaze towards the fire. He sat down next to her, took a pull off his mug and set it on the floor next to him and sat quietly, knowing she would speak when she was ready.

She took a sip of her wine and started to relay her experience. He stayed silent but frowned knowing how hard it was for her. As what seemed to be her habit, she rested her head on his shoulder and continued. Her people had seen her actions especially those of the Temple of her god. In her own words she told him she had become one of which those of her God hunted. He gently pulled her closer to him and said that she should not be too hard on herself and that her people surely must have seen the collar knowing that she was compelled to carry out the attack. She nodded head still on his shoulder and seem to go quiet for a bit. He smiled down at her but he had felt something else was bothering her.

After some time, in a soft voice she spoke about the other topic on her mind, Amalia. A ghost of concern played over his features for a moment but then was gone. He told her he had talked with Amalia and they patched things up. Alyisse nodded then continued. The attempt for her and Amalia to reconcile did not go as smoothly as Alyisse had hoped. Like myself, she had noticed a great change in Amalia's behavior. She was afraid because of a veiled threat made to her by Tyrael. Marister reassured her again and suggested that she talk to Daeris. Alyisse just nodded but then had chuckled softly. He asked her why and she told him and he laughed shaking his head. A few moments later the door opened and in walked Daeris.