A Brown Leather Bound Journal with soft Handprint Scorch Marks.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 11th, IY 7788

I...think I should have started this months ago. I have been taking notes on many things, and almost everything that I am learning thus far, but...I never stopped to think about writing for myself. So...maybe today is the day.

I find myself thinking back to the first days I arrived. Lost. Alone. Scared. The only thing I had was Agaslakku at the start, so I had to perservere. Through a lot of hardship, I found a home. And with Dwarves too!

But...that was months ago. It almost feels like a liftime now, and things are hard. A lot has happened you see. Obviously you know. I just need to find my footing again. I have to think, what would Agaslakku do? To be strong, stand tall and proud, and find the victory from defeat.

It's just...I feel so defeated. But, when you look back on this day. You'll be so happy you didn't give up. I promise. Katya said..."Sunrise always comes." I can't wait for this cold night to pass. I want to see the sunlight again...

[A drop falls upon the page.]

Do you think that Rhuk and Colmes get lonely too? That they wish that someone would give them a hug? I think they do...I'll be strong. For us all. The flame has to keep burning.

Flame preserve you...me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 12th, IY 7788

Today was...okay, and not okay at the same time. This morning, when I woke up I was afraid to face Durgin. To have him look at me wearing the Rose cloak. Some in the Duunthall are really mad at me, and with good reason I suppose...I think I can help us more this way. The Sisters say they will help us find the heir, and...I believe them. Though, I've been told I believe people too easily.

Turns out...Durgin didn't hate me, or maybe he just always did? I don't really know. He never uses the word 'Agaslakku'. It's always 'Murderer'. I guess that's fair though...but, in my eyes, Durgin is still one of the best Warriors I have ever seen. He sacrificed himself for us today, for the Duunthall, for me. He -

He was exiled. I spoke with Sister Zoe...she told me when I asked that people can come back from being exiled. It's rare, but...it's happened. That's my hope at least. Sometime to strive for, like a Priest of the Warrior should. Always looking up. Trying to find the victory in defeat...so this is mine.

He gave me something though. He gave me his Voice. I will treasure this, and I hope in time. When everything is okay again, I can hand it back to him as he steps off the Ash-sail and back onto the Eagles Mount. Maybe I would even hug him too! He might not like that though.

The nice thing is...the Jannisarys are kind to me out on the Scald. I appreciate them, and I think we all should. They do really hard work, and I think they feel that most people don't like them. They're just trying to protect people. Like me!

Anyways, it's late. Aurelio snores really loud though. Oh! And his closet smells like Sandalwood. Don't forget that, it's really nice. The sun is slowly starting to rise again, but maybe clouds will form on the horizon. I'll just have to keep burning to see it.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Oh! A little note; I think the world would be a much better place if people hugged more.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 13th, IY 7788

Sometimes Sarek can be SUCH a fool. Why, why would he bring up Crowbell. Calling me 'Pearl'. That wasn't very nice...Ugh, he's so annoying sometimes. But...he is like a brother to me. And brothers can be SO dumb and annoying.

It was Aurelio who actually came to comfort me, and he told me kind words of a person he once loved, and...it did help. It eased the pain a bit, something he said was; 'You simply learn to live with it, become numb to it'. He's right. There are many people I love. Ulfgrim. Durgin. Even you, Crowbell. I guess, you just have to live with it. I...keep the dead in my heart and my memories, they are a part of this flame that keeps me going.

Though, Aurelio did say something kind of irritating. I'll just...try to move past it. That 'You'd make a good priest of B'aara.' I don't think he meant any harm by saying it. Maybe it's a test from my Lord. I am a proud Priest of the Warrior, if a bit unconventional.

---

I told Rhuk some things about the tendrils at the War Camp. I'm starting to think that it may not be related to the Duunthall at all, and this is something else. A being from Lake Rayyan itself. The Sisters told me that there was something there. When I spoke to the Marishyen, there was a cold breeze that came from the lake when I brought up the tendrils...just maybe...it isn't the presence that followed us hurting people, but that thing inside of Lake Rayyan? I guess it doesn't matter, people are hurt, and I need to help them.

I know some people would tell me to stop talking to the Jannissary, that some of them are just rotten. But, I don't think Rhuk is..all the time at least. I joke to my self that he is like a prickly thorn, if you rub him one way he's really soft, but the other way and it can hurt a lot. Maybe he can still help me. I put my trust in him, so we will see how that goes.

He did tell me not to use my blessings on people who want to duel. I...feel bad, but it's what is fair. Agaslakku would frown on me if I did do that again. Got to learn from my mistakes, I'll stay out of the way of people wanting to duel each other, and merely watch. Be the eyes of the Warrior and praise the victor.

That time was different though...it was Crowbell fighting, and it was outside of the Well, it was the one who followed the Ninth...I didn't know if he would kill him or not. I had never seen a duel before in these times. Everything back then was so new...

---

I found out something I already knew though, in a way. We all are fighting wars inside of ourselves. That is what a Priest of Agaslakku does. They help with those wars, the ones on the inside. The ones people don't see. I'll do my best to be the warm campfire they can come to in the cold night. Though, a healer cannot heal, unless they heal themselves first.

What is broken...

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 14th, IY 7788

Ulfgrim got hurt yesterday in a raid. The Brass Vandal clan...that was the Clan that killed his daughter. Loreli. I think he wanted to avenge her. Which is understandable. Who wouldn't want to bring an inferno of wrath upon those who hurt you, took something from you, broke a piece of you...I tended his wounds as best I can, but...the healing now is up to him.

Afterwards, Durgin pulled me aside to speak to me. Telling me that joining the Rose would ask a lot of me. Questioning my position there based on the words the Agaslakku told me so long ago. He told me not to lose who I am, and to not let others take hold of the 'chisel and hammer' and shape me into something I didn't have a hand in...

For how much he says he hates my faith, that he wants to kill it...by all means he should hate me. I'm sure he does, in some ways, but puts up with me for the Quest. Though, some part of me, deep down thinks that this was a small, tiny way, of him showing that maybe he does care though. He cares about me. Though, Durgin would NEVER admit that.

[There are some drawings of hearts and axes floating around the above paragraph. Especially around a name.]

---

We got to go to the Tower to the west. Thanks Lyceus! Vae Mojem. I have no idea why people keep calling it 'Vajay Mojo'. That sounds gross. Supposedly some wizard lived there, a potent Cryomancer I would imagine. Aurelio and Sarek were there, and Sarek always jumps to the Courts first thing he sees. I guess that makes sense, considering his past. The Court of Light and Water. Oh! The items we found there will be super useful in the Scalding War! The 'Mupps' as people are calling them, are really weak to ice, and there's plenty of ice-related items inside!

Two things of note; the first was that Aurelio prepared a spell. No one has ever cast it on me before. Granted, not many can, but it was a spell to protect another, and he used it on me. That gesture was not lost upon me. Neither was Baelerie, she protected me from the strange creatures that walked the Tower of Vae Mojem. I should thank her again.

The second is that the others may be right. In one of the rooms was a large statue, it looked undead in nature, but the others didn't seem to think so. I've always been fascinated by undead, spirits that linger for some unknown reason. Usually unfinished business. I would help them, finish their business I mean. A flame in the dark draws many things near I find. I've spoken to the dead before, it's not that far fetched of an idea to offer it now. My thoughts are a mess clearly. Basically, the statue is 'haunted', but not by undead. By the Courts, and Aurelio wants to return with the Sisters to consecrate it. So, guess that'll happen soon.

I just wish I could have stayed there a bit longer. Catch snow on my tongue, you have to do that of course. It's a classic from where I am from, a distinct memory of cold mountains and catching snow upon it. But, it was the sky really. The air was cold, aye, but the sky was so clear. Stars dotting and sparkling like beautiful dots of far off journeys and unknowns. I could have stared at it for hours, it would have been really nice with a cup of hot chocolate. - Wait, does the Well have Chocolate?! I should find out. - But, it would be nice to sit with someone else there too. And just...think?

---

The Quest to find the Heir of Got Valdhazr continues. The first order of business is finding a way to 'un-exile' Durgin. I think if we, the Duunthall, continue to show how important he is and useful to the Well. We might be able to save him, and he could come home back to the Well and see me us again!

I could also try asking the Sisters, but with the newly sprung up tower of ice. They might be busy. It never hurts to ask though.

---

We raided against the Orcs today too! Once super early in the morning before bed, and one later in the evening the next day. Cort had a funny sending, it made me laugh. Cort's a great guy. He's really tall with those long legs of his, but he has a beard. Beards look great on men. He looks great.

That's beside the point...as the day got worse. Real bad.

The...raid was bad. Durgin, Vellyn, Ulfgrim, Cort, and Sister Zoe were all hurt. There was a flurry of fireballs at the top of the mountain fort. The people I care about keep getting hurt, and I'm not sure Durgin will recover well from this...how can he? They won't let him do tasks in the Well to regain his strength. So what does that mean? Slowly...but surely I am coming to the realization. If we don't do something soon and...somehow un-exile him...he's going to die out here.

I think I should just go to bed now...

I can't lose him.

Flame...preserve us.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 15th, IY 7788

I forgot my journal in the Hall of the Duunthall when I went on my Pilgrimage of Fire. It went quite well though. But there were some things that I did want to write. Let me try to get my thoughts from my mind to the quill and paper.

It was odd...getting the map to Vae Mojem. It kind of fell out of the sky, literally. There were some flashing of lights and then it dropped. Santiago, a new arrival to the Well, said that it was almost as if the Tower was calling to me? That's...silly. I have no claims to ice or anything of the sort. From the past times I've gone, it seems related to the courts of Light and Water, but...I'm not entirely sure.

I'm just glad I get to take people with me. Everyone has to follow the tradition when seeing snow. What is it? You must stick your tongue out, tilt your head back, and catch the falling snowflakes upon your tongue. Just...don't eat yellow snow. Cogs told me that, it's good advice.

---

I was thinking, that maybe some powerful conjurors could teleport Durgin out of the Scald, and nearby the Tower of Vae Mojem. Greydon told me that it wasn't possible, it was too far. It would be really, really powerful magic though. Vilia even tested it out for me, that was so nice of her.

Cort suggested a few things, that I could rent a private ash-sail to drop him off outside the Well, and then take him back. I bet that'd be really expensive. Or to pay a Captain to make an extra stop somewhere before the Eagle's Mount, but...I don't know if a Janissary would do that.

One can dream, sorry Durgin. I tried, and even he thinks that there isn't a way, but...I won't give up just yet. We'll find a way to free you from the Scald somehow. To un-exile you. You've got friends here in the Well, people that still care.

---

I saw The Elder today. He looked away from me, scowling as I glanced at him when I went to record some information on the Ancestor gods. I...think, no I know he hates me. Part of me worries that he will do what Durgin wanted to do when he was upset, which was to burn down the Hall. I don't think he will though...It's hard to fix years of hatred, it takes time, but...I'd be willing to mend it with the warm flame and forge something new.

Oh! Also, a little reminder Aldric wanted to speak with me. I should find time for him.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 16th, IY 7788

I went to the Valley today. The Black Ichor is still running rampant. I've always believed that good and evil is like a scale. One cannot exist without the other, overabundance in one causes an imbalance and the other rushes to meet it. The Peak is an example of this. Light, attracts dark. For the absence of light, is nothingness, but shadows can't exist without light. It's just something to think about.

The good thing though, is I found my third leaf from the small sapling atop the Mount. I swear, I think it got bigger from when I visited it last time. It seems to be growing. The prayers of warmth and strength I whisper to it are beginning to take shape. The sapling itself thanks me with a gift each time and I treasure them dearly.

[There is an ink-stamp of three leaves on the page. Likely the ones taken from the Sapling atop the Black Ichors' Peak.]

---

We, the Duunthall, got to speak to the Warmaster for a bit. There might be hope for us in un-exiling Durgin. We just have to keep pressing on. Keep moving forward despite all the hits we are taking, we have to find the heir. With Durgin being in the Scald, it's hard to do that. But, I believe still, we will keep adding logs to the flame, my friends and allies, and we'll keep doing good!

It...it just won't be easy. Boltha has gone. Left to go East in search of the heir. She said her farewells and went on her way. I keep staring at the box she has in the Hall. Staring at the name engraved upon it. It's not hard, since it's right there across from me. 'Boltha Hammersong'. I hope she is well and okay wherever she goes. She said she would write to me when she got somewhere, or if she found anything about the Prince. I guess...time will tell. I hope you find victory Boltha. I'll pray for you.

And...thank you. For when the rest of the Dwarves were cruel to me when I arrived, you were kind. I'll never forget that. I...think I'll revisit the first place we met in honour of you.

---

I got to speak with Drugg about being Agasian. He asked me what it was like five millennia ago for me, and why am I Agasian. There were all great questions. For the most part, though, I don't really remember much from the past. I know I got these awful scars from the flames back then. Makes it hard to walk sometimes, and painful too... I don't think many notice that though.

So, why am I Agasian? Well, it's because I want to inspire, I want to lift others up, I want to show them that they can forge themselves into what they want to be. I want to heal their hurts, to strengthen them, to encourage them. I want them to see the glory, to feel victory, and to know honour.

It felt nice to talk about faith again after what feels like so long. I love many people dearly, and I am in love with a few, but my truest love is for Him. For He has always been there, at every step of my journey.

Agaslakku.

---

Today was a good day. I smiled. I laughed. I teared up. But...most importantly, we survived. We live to fight another day. We persevere. He lives. I live.

I perservere.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 18th, IY 7788

It's been really nice to watch the Agasians grow in strength. Cort is getting so strong, and not only that, but he's a really good person too. He helps me carry heavy things to the Hall when I can't carry them. Which is often.

Dudley, the incredible woman she is, is always an inspiration. I've always found with a cleric, or Speaker, that follows a Gods aspect, or domain. It's fairly clear what part of Agaslakku's domains she follows. But, besides that. She has honestly been such a source of support and inspiration. I remember my first days here she was there, encouraging me, and teaching me. I like to think she's proud of me for the man, and Speaker, that I have become through time.

---

Honestly, as of right now nothing too crazy is happening. Which in some ways is a good thing. It's important, especially so, in times of war to find the moments of peace as one makes ready for more war. On that note, the Scalds progress seems to be going well. I'm doing my best to help Durgin, keeping him afloat and what not. I also need to look out for Ulfgrim. He often gets wounded as he triest to find his place on the field. I think he wants to stand side by side with Durgin at the front, but we all have our roles in battle. His is not there, it's just slightly behind Durgin.

What else is there? Oh, there was another expedition to the Tower of Vae Mojem. That's always fun! I wish Cort could have gone, but I think he went to bed. The Sisters took me on a sacred Rite to Kula. That was wonderful to be a part of. I should search around the Nusrum for something of note to Agaslakku. Perhaps I too, one day, can lead Agasians to the sacred places and hold ritual for them there too!

Still though, we, or at least I, wait for the Sisters to receive some form or portent or divination from their dreams about the heirs' whereabouts. I believe that the Orcs of the Scald have the Prince of Got Valdhazr somewhere in their clutches. It's just a matter of where. Boltha...she gave me the swaddle that we retrieved from our excursion at the Scald. The Sisters can use that as a sort of tether? I guess. To better locate the heir, it's mostly a waiting game for the next crumb in the trail to pop up for the Duunthall.

Don't worry Prince, we'll save you!

---

[There's a bunch of doodles around four names in particular; Durgin, Ulfgrim, Cort, and Aurelio. Some with floating axes and hearts scribbled around their names. Other various doodles show things like campfires and hearths.]

In a few days time, Durgin has requested me to perform a ritual to the Warrior. I'm looking forward to it, but I don't know if I should be. I hope it's him taking ownership of his mark, or something to that effect. I guess I'll just have to wait and see.

It's just important to keep smiling, be strong, and spread warmth. I believe that everything will work out, and my Lord will bring me the victory that I deserve.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 19th, IY 7788

I got to go for a whole bunch of exploring today. Some friends; Selwyn, Elara, Regina, Kazadun, Cort and I wandered around the Spindlebridge. Regina is really interested in learning more about the world we live in. I got to get a translation of the Pillars of Wisdom in the so-called Valley of Wisdom. Very well named I might add.

It was a lot of fun! I was even bold enough to ask Cort out on a date. Though, I didn't tell him it was a date. I don't know though, asking someone to go stargazing with you does kind of sound like a date... I doubt he knows it is one. I bet he thinks it's just two bros hanging out or something, oh well. If it is that, it's not the worst thing in the world. If anything it will bring us closer as friends.

---

Then in the evening, more exploration! We got to go to the Ruinous Road. Of which I am still searching for those bones of Yffrid Cawr. I swear the sixth one does not exist. I've been searching for them for so long. It's supposed to be some sort of healer pilgrimage, and I can't even do it. Though, Dudley says challenges like these are perfect for an Agasian. I agree, we will continue to strive for victory, thus I will continue to search for the final shard. During the morning search, I could have sworn I heard it near the Broken Spires...but I am not sure.

But! We found this mirror, and once making it past by saying a passphrase, we found a wizard and his three daughters. Apparently, Phinelio has been working on a way to rouse the girls from their dreams. It was more like they were having a vivid nightmare of sorts as they were moving around a lot, and their faces looked like they were in discomfort.

---

I managed to pay off Ulfgrim's debt. He is no longer indebted to Dante and if he so chooses, could be free of the Gold. Of course, it's all his choice now, but it feels good to free a member of the Duunthall and one of my closest. No, my best friend.

He did say to me there were much better things to spend my dinar on, but what is better than buying freedom? Very little. Plus, Agasians care little for coin. Show me a beautiful blade and that will get me drooling.

---

Now, we're going to go defend the camp in the Scald, then tend to the Tower of Vae Mojem. Aurelio wants to strike out at it whenever the ice thaws. He wants to weaken the Djinn trapped inside the statue every chance he gets. I believe it is beginning to work.

I wonder if Rhuk and Colmes like steak? Maybe I should treat them to some when I get the chance. Being a Janissary does not look like easy work.

Overall, things are starting to look up. I can stand near a flame and smile now. Let us hope it stays this way for a while.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 24th, IY 7788

It's been a while since I've had a moment to myself to just sit and collect my thoughts. This 'Wintermas' has been very busy. I've been taking the logs from the Tower of Vae Mojem and using them to set up campfires along the desert for the weary wanderers to rest at. Agaslakku's flames provide shelter and warmth for many. In a few days, I will have to undertake the pilgrimage again for a few days before everything settles down again.

---

When I came back, Ulfgrim called together an offence against the Orcs in the Scald.It went quite well, though there were a few near injuries during the battle. We had to scale the wall with grapples, and I do not like doing that. Agaslakku gives us many challenges. Climbing is one of mine, it's the worst. I like my feet on the ground, preferably stone too.

From there, we moved to aid the defence in the Scald. It was incredible. Full of action and danger. Adrahesis, the Hound appeared. Bringing wonderful blessings to the battle. I wish I could pet him, I bet his fur is super soft and fluffy. There was also this huge Orc, taller than Aurelio on his horse. It was one of those 'Berserkers'. The really dangerous and formidable foes, that light themselves on fire, and swing around their great axes. Through our combined efforts, no one was hurt, and we managed to take him down.

---

When we were standing around in camp, there was this strange turtle like creature. It had this long serrated knife and said that I had bad manners. I was pretty confused by it, and when I seemingly didn't appease it. It approached and stabbed me. I was the only one able to see it at the time. Thankfully there were a bunch of people to rush to my aid and tend the wound it left behind. Whatever it was, it's dangerous...at least when it's strange 'rules' aren't followed.

If I see them again, I will try to have good manners, say hello, introduce myself, and do that sort of thing. Maybe that will prevent me from getting stabbed. Linlett says to just run away, and so does Cort, but we'll see. Maybe they are just lonely, and looking for a good-mannered friend.

---

Cort is...well, he's an amazing man. I need to take him out stargazing soon. I need to remember that he likes Bazeel Blue drink, is it wine or beer? I don't really know. I get so nervous talking to him, but I like being around him. He's got a great beard too. I saw his room today, it's alright. Very manly, and with not too much care about decor.

I almost had him alone for a while, but Kraqq was with us. I would have felt bad just being like; 'Kraqq, go away, I'm trying to spend time with Cort.' I don't get him alone very often. He is quite a busy man, as am I. So...it's nice to get moments with him. I should be grateful for them, regardless of if we are alone or not. He waved to me when he left the Hall. Either way, I think I need to find a way to let him know how I feel...

It's getting late, and my ribs hurt. Plus, Kraqq is telling me that he thinks Cort is going to join the Janissaries...I don't really want that. But, if you care about someone, you support their decisions, you support them. So, that's what I'll do.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 27th, IY 7788

This morning, the Tower of Vae Mojem did not go so well. I was able to amass a decent group to explore the Tower, a mixture of new and some returning people to it. It seems that the Tower is becoming increasingly agitated. It was very dangerous, and many of the new arrivals to the Well were injured in the ascent. Even Cort was injured. The bronze lining was that I met a new wizard, an elven woman named Ahraket.

Then after that, a defence was had. We had very few people who took to the front. Meaning the backline of the Orcs were un-harassed which led to their warlocks and void-callers raining death upon us. Three were injured here too. A new Scarab I have met by the name of Tariq. He seems kind, and I gave him a statue of the Warrior afterwards. It always seems to bring me comfort to have them close by. Solina, the poor girl. Oh, and Saman, Vorazol's bodyguard of sorts. I'm still mad at him for using my god to taunt me when we were going to the Sibilant Canyons just because I didn't want to go deeper into their tombs.

Oh well. I am not one to hold a grudge.

---

Speaking of Cort, I need to talk to him. I feel as though I am not as important to him as I thought. He spends so much time with Selwyn these days, and I feel like I am second-thought to him. I've been wallowing for a bit, which is an awful emotion. I spoke to Durgin, who told me that matters of the heart are often the worst. Don't I know it. The wound Crowbell has left behind still stings. It never really does heal does it? You just get used to it after a time.

War comes in many shapes and forms, one of which is affection and the emotions that come with it. Katya told me I should confront him, softly of course, and tell him how I feel. Well, I feel like Cort likes Selwyn better than me. Maybe it's for the best though, I've dabbled in love, and it's burned me. Burned me worse than my legs when - [There is a large smudge of ink on the page here.] and I'm so young compared to other Dwarves. Maybe I should wait a century, it might hurt less when I am older.

I'm still at a loss as to what I should do.

---

In some positive news, I woke up to find a ring on the edge of the bunk bed. It left a circular burn mark on the wood. I think it is a gift from Agaslakku himself. Fitting that he would give me a ring. It's like I am married to him, which honestly, I wouldn't mind. I bet he's a great warrior, for he IS the Warrior. It helps me channel my flame to heal, and if I get lonely I can summon a flame to talk to. I guess. That part is alright, I can summon stronger flames if I need to though. Regardless, I will cherish this ring. It means a lot to me now. A representation of my unquenchable flame, maybe I'll call it that?

---

I, no...we need to get some sort of news about the Heir of Got Valdhazr soon. Ulfgrim is beginning to lose hope. His world is dimming. After Boltha has left, me joining the Balladeers, Haldar going away with Zina for some time...it's a lot. We feel...hollow. Like we're losing sight of our quest.

[Theres some dots, as if more writing was going to come, but someone decided against it.]

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 28th, IY 7788

Narwen came to me today. She revealed a portent that she had a while back. That the 'Invasion of Greyness, where the moth returns in millions of thousands' is somehow a relevant line now. Way back, when I along with a few others were inquiring about the sickness. A man turned into a bunch of moths.

She and I both believe that this...presence. This 'It', is now somehow connected to the remaining members of the Duunthall. Maybe me most of all. Ulfgrim doesn't seem to pay much attention to it, nor does Drugg. Boltha is...well. And Durgin has other matters on his mind, which leaves it up to me. Narwen also stated that spirits don't really have much care for the physical world, but more so emotions, feelings, symbols. We were all members of the Duunthall, we all wanted to find the heir of Got Valdhazr. Perhaps, just maybe, the way we put this spirit back to rest is to complete our mission too.

Find the Heir and bring rest to the Presence who is also now invested in our mission. We're connected somehow. I made a promise a long time ago to Agaslakku that even the spirits, the 'worldly' good ones that is, deserve their victory too so that they can find rest.

I wonder if the spirits are drawn to the warm flames of my soul. Do they see it as a beacon in the dark grey space they are lost in? I hope they can, and see that it is a safe place. I'll always try to hear out them before jumping to violence. I never understood why people did that anyway...

---

Things with Cort are going well, somehow he is now able to conjure a hearth-fire. Him being a honorable and fine Agasian, Agaslakku must have sought to bless him with the power to summon a warm place to rest. That brings me joy. Or, he could be a wizard in training. I'm not sure. All I know, is that I am looking forward to our date.

He says he is a wizard in training, like an apprentice. That's interesting. I wonder what Dudley will think about that.

---

The rest of the day was pretty wild, I fought some orcs in their fortress. It was over pretty quick, but always dangerous. I hate climbing ropes, my legs always flare up in pain when I have to climb, I wish there was stairs. Or maybe Vilia or Greydon can teleport me up to the roof. That'd be nice.

Aurelio brought a small group to face off against a Titan. He wants to test out new ways to fight them. I think in this War we are going to have to face Titans and Orcs in the future, and we are going to need to be ready to face them both at once...Not an easy task. Since one steals magic, and the other flings it wildly.

What else? Aeronwy saw me as a Student for the first time! She cupped by my helmets cheeks and said it was nice and shiny. That was sweet of her. Oh, met a Kulkund Dwarf, her nose kind of wrinkled when Haldar told her I am a Priest of the Warrior. Understandably. I'll prove to her that I am no Murderer, but a Warrior with warmth, compassion, and honor in my heart.

---

Met an Agasian today, his name is Baler. I hope he grows into a fine Warrior. I'll do my best to forge him into what he wishes to become! He brought up a good idea though about the Tournament happening soon in Ephia's Well. Maybe Durgin would be granted a day to return to the Well to participate in the Tournament? Maybe.

All in all, a pretty good day.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 29th, IY 7788

Not good. Not good at all. Who will heal the war going on inside my heart, my soul?

[There are various drawings of broken weapons, axes, and wildfire drawn around the edges. Accompanying the drawings are red blotches.]

He came to me today. The Murderer, the other half of Agaslakku. Or maybe it's always been Him. He spoke to me, and stood in front of me, towering over me.

"Grenth you must make them bleed. You must take war to them all, forever. In that is true strength."

I feel lost. I don't know what to do. I don't want to hurt the people I care about. I want to help them. I want to forge them into something they wish to be. This being, were they really a god? Did I speak to a god? Did I really speak to Him? Who are 'They'?

"Grenth, rise the dead, not in unlife, but in life true. To die. To live at the edge of death. You murder them all a thousand times. Life is a dance, and each step a death."

I don't murder anyone. I fix their wounds, I reforge what is broken in them. So they can keep fighting, so that they can keep watering Bel-Ishun...I don't understand.

"To live is to die."

[A blotch of red crimson liquid stains the page here.]

"Each death is what gives meaning to your life. What death matters more to you? The Horde, or the Ally? You breathe death in your wake. Each wound you heal is a thousand cuts. You suffer and refuse to die. And so you kill the world in order to save yourselves. That is your murder."

"How many will you lose, Grenth?"

"Forge my name upon the Stele."

I do suffer. I do refuse to die. I won't let anyone else be broken before their time. I will wage the wars unseen by many. I will do what I can to place the Warriors name upon the Stele, for war is here. And yet, I feel lost. Many times, Dudley has told me that the path of the Warrior is a lonely one.

She is right.

'And so the warrior priest falls upon their blade. To bleed a thousand wounds. And rain the wealth of life upon the sands. Each wound recovered is a wound relived.'

I'll save us. I'll suffer. I'll survive. I'll keep the faith. I persevere.

'To protect, you must lead in War.'

[A clear drop upon the page this time.]

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 30, IY 7788

I have pondered the meaning of His words. I believe what He said was actually praise: "Grenth, you must make them bleed, you must take war to them." This sounds intense, but of course, Agaslakku would be. "They only gasp for life because you feed them." I am beginning to understand. "Each wound you heal is a thousand cuts."

I believe, what He was trying to say, was that He is proud of me. It's a strange thought, to know that the God you devote yourself fully to, is proud? I 'murder' them all with the flames I bathe them in. Reliving their wounds upon their skin and healing it. That is my 'murder'. It took me some time to get there, but I think I understand. The Gods speak in confusing tongues. Even still I may be wrong.

I spoke to al-Leyla. She seemed to understand that I could be more than what I am, and in fact, encourages it. I will not become violent or bloodthirsty. I want to be me. The warm, soft, and caring man that I hope people see me as. I think...many forget that Agaslakku has no domain of violence or bloodshed. War has so many forms...even the smaller ones we forget.

Perhaps it was not strange that the Warrior would speak to me. I have grown a lot since I awoke in the sands. - Maybe it was He who woke me up? - I must break the Agasian code we have struck, and I must attempt to become Hakem. I have to place the Warrior upon the Stele. It is as He commands.

---

[Grenth Flamebringer's talent to Perform is Average.]

[There is an average drawing of a Dwarven helmeted man and a Human-sized individual man, both clad in Agasian attire dancing together in what looks like a ballroom dance from a very distant time. The dance is clearly intended to be romantic, but there is a sadness to it as well, yet even in the sadness there is a faint glimmer of hope. Longing in the Dwarves' eyes for something not yet found.]

---

Bad times are looming on the horizon. A defence was called, like any other. However, the field was different. A 'Dance of death'. Just like He said. Ulfgrim, Durgin, Lyceus, Marcellus, Narwen. Four of five of them were followers of the Axe. Struck down by orcs, berserkers and void-callers. One of their necromancers even raised the berserker after it had been slain. It was chaotic.

It...will be as I feared. Durgin is slowly withering and dying here. I knew it would happen, and the next step has been taken, the next part of this 'dance'. Closer and closer to the edge he goes. I've decided to make a petition. In honesty, I don't think it will do much, but it's better than doing nothing. A voice alone might mean little, but in unison, together in choir, we can sing louder. Shout so that we are heard. Maybe it will do something, maybe it won't, but it is better than nothing at all.

Hang on a little longer Durgin. I won't let your dance end. Not yet.

---

Solina became a Balladeer today. Or at least a Student. It has been something she's wanted to be for a while. I'm glad that she got it, hard work should be rewarded. I'll say a prayer for her to Agaslakku, He'll be glad to hear of this one. This victory should be celebrated, even in times of darkness, light still finds ways to show itself through the clouds.

I'll revel in this for a while. Before the light fades, and the clouds return. Hoping ever onwards for that next glimpse of light.

Flame preserve me.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Adar 31st, IY 7788

Today marks the Year's Gasp. A day for the ninth as the Wheel turns. For good, and for bad. For shadow cannot exist without light, and light cannot exist without casting a shadow. They define each other in their dance of contrast and balance.

It has got me thinking, in twelve days it will be four months since I awoke from the sands at Agaslakku's behest. It feels like it has already been such a long time, but in the grand scheme of my life, it is but a blink for a Dwarf. I worry for my shorter-lived friends and loved ones, but I will cherish every moment I have with them all the more. I hope this year is a good one, I know many challenges await. I will do all I can to meet and face them with the flames burning in my heart.

---

Early this morning, or rather before I went to bed. Cort came to the Duunthall Hall. We...held hands. I think that's important. He said he would be my shield. It amazes me how few words can mean so much. Yet, deep down I always worry when men make such promises. It's easy to say words. Air pushed forth through chords of flesh. It's action that proves our merit. Still, I trust him, I believe in him, just as I do Ulfgrim and Durgin.

That night, when Agaslakku came to me. I told them they could run, that they could flee. But, none of them did. They stared at death, the blades of the God of War, and did not flee. They trusted in me. I will remember that.

I...love them.

---

Dandrik is...an interesting man. He thinks we are rivals, which I find quite humorous. There is much to be gained from a rival though. I moreso consider him a friend. Though we often debate about B'aara and Agaslakku. I think the Orcs jade his viewpoint. Agaslakku is not about meaningless bloodshed and violence. We have our purpose too, glory and honour. To die so that others can live. He likes to use that argument against me, that five faithful to the Axe fell at the defences, but... It is the Agasians who would die so that others might live. We wage war, so others know peace.

I hope he finds what he is looking for in the Rose, and as Aurelio's Squire.

Dandrik's good-looking too. Dammit. So's Aurelio...

That reminds me, I need to go get some meaty soup for Aurelio, and likely a cold cloth for his forehead.

---

[Grenth Flamebringer's Talent to Perform is Average.]

[Another Average drawing depicting an Agasian-dressed Dwarf catching snow in front of a large tower. A taller humanoid figure clad in armour stands, arms crossed, watching. The ground beneath the taller humanoid is hot enough to form a ring of melted ice. Despite that, the Dwarf has a faint smile that can be seen in the shadow of the helmet as he attempts to catch the falling snow, all the while watched by the taller figure.]

Remember to smile and laugh. Compassion, warmth, kindness, these are emotions of hidden strength. Wield them well.

Though love, love can be either or. A weakness or a strength. Depending on how it is wielded and protected.

Flame preserve me.