Hello once more. Here is the next chapter. I'm not certain that I am happy with it, which is why I have taken a while to post it. That, and writer's bloack has been a bit of a problem lately. Still, here it is anyhow, for good of for ill.
On a second note, Crazefanficboi brought up a topic that I realize might be a bit confusing. For the character's ages, I am working off the Dungeons and Dragons Players Handbook, and Monster Manual. Keledrial, by the Handbook is just under elven majority, which means he's about 17 or 18 in human years. Sera is about 25 in the story, which, according to the Monster Manual, means she's a juvenile, which is about 9 or 10. Most of the little girls I know about that age think their "in love," or at least find boys cute, so I figured that Sera would too.
Please note that I am not certain why dragons age faster than elves do, seeing as the former lives longer than the latter. My theory would be that dragons are forced to grow up faster seeing as they live in a dangerous environment, and their aging slows down later. Elves have more time, since they grow up in relatively "safe" environments. The aging differences of the races is part of the reason why Keledrial has such problems, seeing as in Ruathym he was considered an adult and forced to act like one, when he was actually a child still, with a lot more growing to do.
I would like to thank all of you have reviewed this story for me: Aquila, Arabwel, Catspaw0913, Crazefanficboi, and SilverWolf. If it weren't for your interests and responses to the story, I probably would have given up on this long ago. Thanks all and enjoy! Azurielle
A few months later, things were fairly calm. No terrible thing had happened. No more earth shattering revelations. Zelairwyn is keeping his mind on his training and schooling, and thankfully, hardly seems to know that Sera is alive. Sera, for her part, only does the eyelash fluttering and sighing and such…much as my sisters had done. Nothing will come of it…not now anyhow. For all the airs she's put on since coming here and interacting with other children, she's still only a little girl, only just 23 years of age…in human terms that's something like 10 years or so, I think. And I've become certain that she is only fixated on Zelairwyn because he is around so often…much as Orianna and the twins fixated on Tobias because he was often around our house. It will pass…or so Lyly and Tully and Magnar have all been quick to assure me…although how Magnar would know, seeing as for a dwarf, he's not all that old and has no children, is beyond me. Why I ever thought to speak about my problem to any of them is beyond me…they just asked, and it sort of slipped out.
Still, speaking with them, however, briefly, was almost pleasant. I've been so busy trying to be a good teaching and dealing with all the problems that seem to continually erupt around me, that I hardly realized how much I miss my few friends. It is only at times like this, when the night is still around me, and the only sounds are the forest's whisperings, the creaking of the house settling around me, and the faint breathing or Sanhadrian…who just had to fall asleep on my leg, which is now numb…that I notice…for it is only at times like this that I have time to feel.
Sometimes it seems as though I am walking through life playing at a dreadful game of balance. It is as though I walk a thin line over a dangerous pit. In my one hand, I carry my responsibilities and my duties…in the other, my desires for freedom, my beliefs and convictions. I must walk carefully and slowly, always being certain to try keep both hands in balance, for if one side should tip, I fear I would take a dangerous fall. And I am trying so hard no to fall…not to fail.
Although, there are times when I am here that I very nearly feel at peace…not often, but occasionally. And yet, this was certainly not what I had in mind when I was back on Evermeet, wanting to see the world. Here I am just as trapped, still by duty, no less…but at least it is a duty that I accepted for myself. Maybe that is what makes the difference.
Yet, a part of me still wants to fly free of even this place, the one place where I might be accepted, despite my oddities. I still want to travel, to see the world and the sights it has to offer…and I will. I know that I will, but unfortunately, not yet. When Sera is a little older, perhaps…and more capable of dealing without my constant presence…and when Zelairwyn is capable of protecting himself…then I think I will take leave of my duties, at last, and travel once more.
Until then, however, I continue to try to make the best of things here…even if it appears I am still not doing such a wonderful job. Oh, my students seem to like me well enough, but I have still yet to make any headway with most of the other teachers. I suppose I am just anti-social…although Magnar prefers to use the word "shy." It's such an annoying word really…insinuating that I am afraid to talk with them, to try to make them like me…especially when that is not it at all. I don't want to talk with them, that's all. Why would I? They may be teachers, but that doesn't mean they're not foolish. And there's no need for me to remind of which subject I feel they are foolish about. Still, it is comforting to know that Kalanas goes out of his way to avoid me. I guess he's finally learning that his little "I'm good act" won't make any headway with me.
On the bright side…if you can call it that, at least I am finally on speaking terms with my cousin again. Honestly, she is being so stubborn about Zelairwyn just knowing who his father is, that I am certain I am right. And the problem with that is that I still hardly know what to think about the whole situation. We elves are very proud of our heritage, for the most part. I can't imagine growing up thinking that I was a moon elf and then having my parents suddenly tell me that I was really a green elf or something…although it would explain my size, wouldn't it?
All jesting aside, however, I think what Liralyn is doing is wrong…I just haven't come up with a clever way to deal with it. I shall just have to think harder, I suppose.
All in all, I have to say that I looking forward to the summer break coming up. Maybe then I'll have some time to come up with a solution. Maybe I'll even have a chance to take Sera to see Shadowdale or something…I've heard that several Chosen of the human goddess, Mystra, live there…a bard of some renown, and an old human wizard, I think. Anyhow, the bards always seem to be singing about the place, so there must be something interesting to see.
Well, I'll see, anyhow, when the time arrives. I would have to make certain that Zelairwyn would be well protected if I decided to do such, after all. But I'll worry about that later. Think I'll take my reverie now…here's to counting the days until I no longer have to worry about Talath burning parts of himself in my smithing class!
Just a day before the students were to leave for their homes for a few blessed weeks, and I had to end up getting in a fight. It's not like it was even my fault…not really, anyhow.
I was minding my own business, for once, when I happened upon Everall's resident drow and his son. The boy was upset, asking some question about why one of his classmates had tripped him and made a comment about how drow shouldn't be at Everall because he was a drow. Kalanas replied something to the effect of "some people are afraid of us because they do not understand us," and that "if we show them we are strong, and mean no harm by refraining from retaliation, even if we are wronged, we can show them we have as much right to be here and learn, as they do."
I didn't even say anything…although I confess I was thinking rather snide thoughts about the statement. As much right to be here as the good races! It's like saying the wolf has a right to be in the pen with sheep! Ridiculous. Still, in deference to my vow, and to the common belief shared by the majority of the school that even dark elves, the evilest of evil, had a right to prove they can change their ways, I said nothing…I merely snorted. Honestly, I doubt Kalanas or his brat even knew I was there.
Then I heard a voice from the shadow of the building I was passing.
"It's people like you that cause this sort of thing…you and your damned intolerant ways are rubbing off on the students, now," the voice muttered acidly. I turned fractionally to catch sight of Kellenes out of the corner of my eye. He was leaning up against the building, in a casual stance. I should have realized it was not so casual as it appeared, though, for every muscle in his body was tensed…his blue eyes flashing angrily.
"No matter how hard he tries, you refuse to even consider the possibility that my brother means no harm, do you Nightstar?"
"If the kettle is black, there's no sense in calling it white," I replied, turning away from him, feeling smug.
"It's people like you that make this world so intolerable to live in," Kellenes stated.
"You're words mean nothing to me," I told him, throwing the words over my shoulder. "You would think the same as I if you had not been stolen by the drow and grown up thinking that you were "brothers" with one of them. If you'd been raised properly, you'd think the same as I do."
"I am nothing like you!" Kellenes hissed. I turned fractionally, realizing that perhaps I should not have made that last comment. But my mouth has ever had a tendency to run away with me. All right…so perhaps I did sort of have a hand in starting the fight. But he spoke first, damn it!
There was a scrape of metal on metal as he whipped his blades from their scabbards and charged.
"The world would be better off if it weren't for Cyric-hearted bastards like you!" he shouted, diving at me in a second. I turned in time to avoid the initial lunge that would have sent the tips of his swords into my back, killing me. Instead, I caught the edges of the blades, slicing open the skin of my back, and upper arm. And they say I have a bad temper!
I turned to keep him at my front and backed up quickly. Oh, don't get me wrong, I wanted to fight the little bastard. I intended to, as I snapped my own weapon into my hands. I just wanted to make certain that we would be on equal ground as I did…maybe even give him a chance to cool down and realize the folly of this course of action. After all, this was the last sort of trouble I needed…especially seeing as I knew everyone would think I started it.
"You really don't want to do this, Kellenes," I warned him, parrying his right sword, and ducking to avoid a neck shot with his left, the clash of blades loud in the afternoon stillness.
"Yes I do," he snapped. "My brother may have the skin of a dark elf, but by Eilistraee it's your heart that's black!" That was it! How dare he insinuate that I…! With a roar, I attacked, cutting downwards. He deflected the attack with one of his swords, but my greater strength blasted past the defense of his left arm, slashing into his shoulder. He dropped the weapon with a grunt, admirably hiding the pain. Foolishly, I assumed he was through, and I lowered my guard for a fraction of a second. He swung at my legs, piercing my upper left thigh. Seeing as I was not in a rage, I felt it…and it hurt. A lot. Dropping my sword to the ground in a moment of intelligence on my part, I grabbed his sword, and flung it away as well. I knew that if I had kept my weapon in my hands an instant longer I would rage, and kill him. As much as that would have given me satisfaction, I would not have it so. After all, he could hardly help himself for being a fool. Besides, if I killed him I would be out of Everall faster than I could say "exile." I was not about to let the idiot force me to that.
Rather than cutting him down, I curled my hand into a fist, and putting all my weight behind the swing, I slammed my fist into his gut. He gasped loudly for air, doubling over for a moment, yet he recovered fast, and returned with a punch of his own, this one connected with my eye, as I clapped a hand over the wound in my leg.
Now so angry I could feel the haze of rage edging in on my vision, I tackled him to the ground, and began to pummel the hells out of him. Like a cat, he fought back, twisting and turning, scoring nearly as many hits on me.
Suddenly, we were jerked apart, hands grabbing at our arms, around our waists.
"Stop it!" shouted Kalanas Dakarios as he tried to hold his furious "brother" back.
"Knock it off, Keledrial, "added Bran, all but shouting in my ear as he wrenched my arms back.
"He started it!" I growled.
"Let me go! He deserves to die!" Kellenes screamed back at his brother, struggling still.
"No he doesn't…people are entitled to their opinions," Kalanas protested, leaning back, using all his weight to hold Kellenes back.
"Let him go…I'll show the coward what happens to people who attack from behind!" I called out.
"Shut up you miserable barbarian!" Kellenes shouted. "You're nothing but a freak! Practically a Half-elf!"
"Better that than a traitor to my own race!" taunted, even thought his statement had cut deeply.
"Stop it, both of you!" Kalanas said, once more, almost pleading. I have to hand it to him...he seemed sincerely upset about what was going on. Good actor...perhaps he should have been a bard. At that point, Harl showed up and put an end to the conflict with that aura of command that paladins seem to exude.
"That's enough, both of you! You're elves, for Torm's sake, not children! It doesn't matter who started this, because as of now, it is finished!" It was like being yelled at by one's father. At the same time, I felt foolish, and yet wanted to rebel. But, seeing as I hadn't really wanted to fight in the first place, I decided that I would follow the command…especially when I noticed that wide-eyed crowd of students that had gathered to see what was happening.
As I forced my muscles to relax, and my breathing to calm, Bran released me sensing that I was through fighting. The pain of the wound in my leg nearly caused it to go out from under me, but I gritted my teeth, and forced myself to stay upright.
"You try something like that again, and I swear it'll be the last time," I warned Kellenes. He merely narrows his eyes, and gave in to his brother's insistence as Kalanas led him away.
"That was really stupid, Keledrial," Bran told me with a shake of me head, as he gripped my arm to steady me.
"What the hells was I supposed to do? Let him kill me?" I asked, incredulously.
"You might have tried not provoking him," Bran said, as he guided me towards the clerics' area. Behind us, Harl was making the crowd of students leave, telling them some fabrication about how Kellenes and I had been merely "sparring" and had an accident. I can't imagine that any of the students were dumb enough to believe the lie, but as I said, Harl has such an aura of command that they cleared out anyhow.
The only cleric around at the time was Sharanne… the human priestess of Chauntea. She was so disgusted upon hearing about how the wounds occurred "fighting like children, on school grounds, no less" I believe she said, that she refused to fully heal my wounds. She only did enough to stop the bleeding and make certain that there would be no permanent damage. The rest could heal on its own, that I might better consider my actions the next time, she added. It didn't even matter to her that I hadn't started the fight…only that I should have stopped it without violence somehow. Damned farmers!
At least I found out that she was no nicer to Kellenes…the little shit. I hope his wounds are hurting him worse than mine. Although considering he did me more damage with his weapons, and my wounds are throbbing like a dwarf is hammering away at them from the inside, I doubt it.
Needless to say, once patched up Liralyn stopped by to give me a lecture on inappropriate behavior for teachers, and what it constituted. Further, she added that I had traumatized students, and behaved irresponsibly. I heard it all even though I paid little attention. So I had provoked Kellenes a little. If he hadn't had such a terrible temper, this never would've happened. He attacked me, damn it! From behind no less! It isn't fair that I'm getting in trouble for this! But try telling that to anyone else. As far as they're concerned I'm just as at fault as Kellenes!
So much for going to Shadowdale. Two days after the fight, and my wounds were as painful as ever. There was no way I would be able to ride Lashrael in such a condition. Needless to say that Sera is upset, for she'd been looking forward to the trip. She's been sniffling and pouting all day, and driving me crazy. I finally convinced her to bring a message to Zelairwyn for me, informing him that we would not be practicing his swordplay for several days at least. I'm certain that the boy already knows that, but it would at least get her out of my hair for a while.
So I'm stuck here, waiting for my wounds to heal all because Kellenes Dakarios chose that moment to throw a temper tantrum.
At least its pretty quiet with so many of the students gone. Those still here either have no home to go to, or their home is too far away. I gather a few of the teachers volunteered to do special outings and the classes for the kids. I'll have to find out exactly what has been scheduled, and see if I can't convince Sera to join in. I love my daughter more than my own life, but I swear if she's going to mope for the next month over not being able to take the trip I promised, I may have resort to dire tactics.
My leg has finally healed enough to walk on, although it is still with a bit of pain that I do so.
On a more interesting note Tobias arrived at the school a few evenings ago, to say hello and drop off a few things: some messages and letters from my parents… and the new abjuration teacher, who had come from Evermeet.
I had a chat with him for a while, catching up on all manner of things. He said he meant to go wandering again, and I asked him if he meant to go near Evereska, or back to the mountains near Waterdeep. When he shrugged and stated he could head in those directions if I wanted, I asked if he might do so, for I had some inquires to be made in both places. In Everska I wished him to find out about Zelairwyn's missing friends, as I had so long ago promised to do, but been unable to, until now. I gave him the list of names that Zelairwyn had given me.
Further, I wanted him to check up on the messages I had sent to people in Waterdeep, regarding the names of Sera's birth parents. I'd heard nothing back yet, and wondered if the messages had got where they needed to, or whether the people had even looked into what I had asked about. The truth is, though, that I have been rather glad no word has come. I fear to know anything for certain, for then it will be something I must tell Sera. I fear losing her…yet at the same time, it is only right that I should do everything within my power to see that she at least learns their names.
Tobias accepted both "mission" and stated that he would see what he could do, and send word as soon as he had word to send. I thanked him, grateful that he tried so hard to become my friend, for now I valued him as one of my only friends.
Shortly after Tobias left, Sera, thankfully, ceased her pouting. Apparently seeing Tobias again was enough to placate her, as well as the fact that she learned one of her friends stayed behind. Sera has more or less taken to doing exactly what her friend…a dwarf girl called Rina, I think, does.
Also, the new abjuration teacher…whom I have yet to meet, has some summer class set up that will run through the next few weeks, even though she's only been at the school for a few days.
Sera is waiting ecstatically for it to start. I honestly don't know why she likes abjuration magic so much, though. Protection spells are all well and good, but Evocation and explosions are much more fun.
I don't have to worry about Zelairwyn for the moment wither, seeing as he hasn't been causing trouble. He's been keeping busy practicing alone, and spending a lot of time at the archery range. I think he's got Rogan, the archery teacher helping him out…which is good, seeing as I'm not all that skilled in bows, even after my training on Evermeet. I don't know…a sword or an axe just feels better in my hands than a bow.
Seeing as riding and anything truly strenuous is out for another few weeks or so, I think I might do a bit of research and pick up a few new spells. Maybe I'll do a bit of enchanting…after all I've got plenty of weapons to work on…maybe a simple magic enchantment on the students' completed items, as a reward for putting up with my fumbling teaching for the past year… I might even do a bit of fishing or something. Who knows…at least I'll get to relax a bit…whether I like it, or not.
Now, when I decided to head down to the stream, a few miles from the school, to relax for a bit, I had merely intended to fish a bit. Yes, me, fishing. I know it seems boring, but it is rather relaxing, especially if one does not concern them self with actually attempting to catch something. Besides, I am not completely incompetent when it comes to the sport…I did spend all of my formative years live on one island or another. And, having little better to do with all the students gone, it seemed a good enough idea.
So I grabbed a line, and a hook, rounded up some food from the school's kitchen, and headed out, leaving a message for Sera, in case she came looking for me, though she is supposed to busy at the abjuration class all day.
It was a fine day, not too hot or cold, bright and clear, with patches of sunlight filtered through the heavy canopy of the forest. Sanhandrian was in his element, leaping from my shoulder, and into the trees, chittering wildly, and jumping from branch to branch, chasing a pretty lady squirrel. My wounds from the fight were all but healed, and I was feeling pretty good for once.
I found a nice spot, up on the grassy bank of the stream, and stretched out.
Most of the morning passed, as I slipped in and out of reverie. Even despite my lack of trying, I caught several trout, which I fully intended to give over to the school cooks to fry up later.
The last thing I expected was to hear the scream of a child shatter the afternoon stillness.
I was on my feet in an instant when I heard the scream, looking about, my pleasant lethargy gone. I didn't have to look long. Following in the direction of the shout, which was quickly followed by another shrill cry, I bolted downstream tearing through the underbrush.
"Somebody help!" the child screamed, and I could tell from the tone that whomever it was, was terrified. I finally got free of the forest as a clearing, alongside the stream, opened up.
I saw the creature first. It rose before me, nearly 9 feet in height. It stood upright; it's lower half like that of a bear. It supper half, however, was like a giant owl, its wings ending in sharp claws. I took in the entire scene in an instant, time seeming to slow as it always did when it was time for battle. On the far side of the stream, barely hidden by underbrush was a shallow cave; the creature's lair, I guessed.
The creature, I knew from tales I had heard, was an owlbear. The evil creatures' origin was unknown, but it was known that an owlbear could ferociously kill entire families, all to sate its ravenous hunger. Lying on the ground, near the owlbear's feet was a child…or, more specifically, a child I was familiar with.
Rhylaun Sunstar, the son of my cousin Liralyn and Kalanas Dakarios…the drow, lay there. Not even two decades in age yet, he seemed incredibly small and helpless. The sight of him stunned me for a moment.
The boy tried to crawl away from his attacker, but seemed to have hurt his ankle, and could not run. The owlbear grabbed for him, and the child screamed, a high-pitched wail of pain as the creature's claws raked the skin of his leg. The owlbear moved in for the kill, roaring loudly…madness gleaming in its red-rimmed eyes. From the far edge of the clearing, over a hundred yards away, I saw people burst through the tree line…other children, who stopped to stare in horrified fascination…and adults, teachers from the school. I saw Kalanas…and his "brother", Kellenes. In less time than it took for my heart to beat, I saw Kalanas' face twist in terror, knowing that his son was about to die while he watched…knowing that he was too far away to stop the owlbear. I heard Kalanas scream in rage. And in that moment, he was not a drow to me…not someone to be hated…in that moment, all I saw was a father, like myself, who wanted nothing more than to protect his child from harm…and Rhylaun was only a child who was afraid. And I was the only one close enough to do anything about it.
I knew that if the position was reversed…if it was Sera in danger, there was nothing I would care about, save that she was saved. So as a father, I did the only thing I could do, enemy or not.
I snapped my fingers, and my great sword was in my hands. I ran forward, barely noticing the twinge of pain from my leg, as I slammed my shoulder into the owlbear. Though I am strong, I hardly moved the creature more than a few inches…in truth my attack had done little but gain its attention…which was exactly as I had intended. For the moment it was distracted I reached down and grabbed Rhylaun from the ground, setting him on his feet. He nearly fell again; the pain of his injuries must have been great…but he stood, his tear-filled silver eyes meeting mine in a split-second.
"Run!" I shouted at him, pushing him away. I did not have time to see if he would obey me, as the owlbear's razor-like claws tore into the flesh of my back, cutting down to bone.
I turned back to it, ignoring the burning pain…I'd been wounded worse. It roared at me, its breath was foul, and rotten smelling. I roared back, and attacked. My first swing went wide, as the owlbear swung its wing up, and deflected the blade, slashing once more, this time across my side. I cursed myself as a fool for leaving myself open and attacked again, feeling energy surge into my arms, as the battle rage fell upon me. Greater strength and awareness surged through me, as the pain fell away.
I drove the beast backwards, back towards the stream, scoring hit upon hit. I knew that my wounds were bleeding… profusely, but in the near-oblivion of the rage, I did not feel so much as a twinge. It slashed me only once more before it fell to my sword.
I came out of the battle rage feeling weary, as usual, my wounds burning. A quick check revealed that my tunic was soaked through with blood, dripping down onto my pants. I glanced around, to see the body of the owlbear I had been fighting…hacked to a nearly unrecognizable state. Not far from that, was another owlbear…the female to the male I had killed. It, too, was dead, although scorch marks, and the bloody lines of blades smaller than my own, had felled it.
Strange that there had been owlbears so close to the school, and no one had known about them…especially since most of the owlbears in the forest of Cormanthyr had been long ago killed by the elves. Still, there have always been stories of rare, ancient owlbears, sleeping and hidden…I hardly knew whether to believe the truth of such tales, but what I did know, judging by the sheer size of the two that had been felled, was that these owlbears were far from the average ones encountered elsewhere in Faerun.
I pulled my hair away from my face, and tucked it behind my ears, and continued looking around. I saw Kellenes, and another teacher, the human ranger, Grim, near the other owlbear…blood staining their blades. They, no doubt, had aided in the killing of the female owlbear. The children were at the far end of the clearing, still staring wide-eyed, ad whispering among themselves. Vaguely, I recalled something about a group of students taking a field trip into the forest today…something about plant identification.
The druid who taught at the school, an elven woman named Starya, was ministering aid to Rhylaun. The dark elven boy's face was still wet with tears, but he was doing his best not to cry more as the druid bound his wounds, packing them with herbs and whispering healing chants. Standing before the boy and the woman, almost like a shield, was Kalanas. The drow wizard had obviously been casting, for I could sense the fading tingle of magic in the air around him. He turned to face me, his expressions unreadable.
I snapped my fingers, sending my sword back into the glove of storing, and rose to my feet, one hand pressed against my side, in a vain attempt to staunch the blood flow. And then it occurred to me, just what I'd done…I'd saved the life of a drow.
I couldn't help feeling confused by my own actions. After all, the deed had seemed so obvious at the time…but after… Rhylaun was just a child, true…and one from whom I'd never sensed evil…and yet, he was still a drow. And I had saved his life, and in doing so allowed one of the sworn enemies of the people to live, child or not. But for all that, as I looked at him, I could feel no regret over what I'd done.
And I started to think…perhaps…just maybe, a drow was not born evil…perhaps it was something they were taught. Therefore, it stood to reason, that a drow child, raised by good people might be good. After all, if an elven child who lived among humans could become a berserker…could learn to do things completely against his nature…then why not a drow? And in that one moment, my entire way of thinking things…my nice, ordered set of beliefs shifted…shifted and changed to the point that I hardly feel certain of anything.
All I know is that Kalanas had never attacked me, or even spoken ill of me…even when I had done both to him. He withstood my taunts with a control I almost envied. And for all my words to the contrary, I could not think of one evil deed he'd done, indeed he'd even tried to stop his brother from trying to kill me.
And his son reminded me of any other child…he played, he laughed, and he learned just like all of the other children…but I had let my beliefs stain my judgment of him. I hadn't bothered to try to find out if they were good people…even though, I had to assume that my cousin and her friends would never had allowed him in the school if they thought that Kalanas meant any harm. I had only seen "drow."
After all that has happened, and all Lita told me about the very same subject, you would think that I would have learned by now that a person is not just their race, nor do all people fall into racial stereotypes. After all, if the elven woman who'd been with the Zhentarim at Goldenfields could be evil of her own volition, then why could Kalanas and his son not be good?
It is something I have been pondering since the attack, and still, I have not come up with any answer that satisfies me, save that perhaps, once again, I have been too quick to judge. I can hardly believe that I am thinking such a thing…that a drow could possibly be good, but well, there it is.
So, anyhow, I stood in the clearing, bleeding, feeling tired, and more than a little confused at my actions, when Kalanas approached. He seemed a little wary and out of the corner of my eye, I saw Kellenes tense, sword tips rising fractionally…in case I should attack, I suppose.
"I don't know why you did it, but you saved my son, Keledrial…and for that I owe you a great debt," Kalanas stated. I shrugged.
"I could not stand by and let a child…any child, suffer. Besides…I am a father, too. If my daughter was in the same situation, I would want to know that someone would be there to save her." Kalanas nodded, solemnly, and held his hand out to me. For a long moment I stared at the proffered limb…the skin covering it as black as mine is pale. An hour before then, I would have sneered and turned away. Two years ago, I would have suspected treachery, and attacked before I could be attacked. But now…in the span of a few moments of time, everything had changed…turned my nice, ordered way of thinking upside down. And so I did something that was very out of character for me.
I accepted his hand, and clasped it, as one warrior would to another. And for that moment he and I, drow elf and moon elf, were no different.
Needless to say, while we we're now at a truce, I could not entirely erase an attitude built of a century to vanish in one day. So while I no longer felt the urge to attack him, neither am I his best friend either.
He released my hand, and glanced at the blood…my blood that was now smeared on his own palm.
"Come, Nightstar. Let us return to the school, that you might get your wounds properly cared for," he stated. I shook my head, stubbornly…I don't know whether blood loss had impaired my judgment at that point, or whether my own perverse nature forced me to disagree with the dark elf out of hand.
"I must go get my things," I declared. He gave me an incredulous look.
"You're bleeding to death! Your things will keep." I shook my head again.
"I spent all afternoon catching those fish, and by Corellon I mean to have fish for dinner!" I stated, stubbornly.
"You are behaving like a child," Kalanas crossed his arms over his chest.
"And you are a drow!" was my witty reply. About then things started to get fuzzy. I gather that my wounds were a little worse than I had thought. I vaguely recall deciding that sitting on the ground seemed a much better idea than attempting to stand any longer. I heard Grim laugh, and say that he would go fetch the damned fish.
Somehow, I got back to the keep, although I cannot exactly recall how I managed it…sheer force of will I suppose. I woke up in the clerics' building, a short time later. The worst of my wounds has been healed, magically…now only new, itching, scars across my back and side proved that the battle had happened. I had just managed to sit up, when I was nearly deafened by a girlish shriek.
"Daddy!" Sera cried, as she hurled herself at me.
"What?" I asked, worriedly. "Are you all right? Is something wrong?" She shook her head, her small arms wrapped as far around my chest as they could go.
"Then what?" I demanded. She sat back, and looked up at me.
"Don't ever scare me like that!" she said, tearfully. "Remember you promised you wouldn't do that again…remember on Evermeet, when you fell asleep? You promised!" She meant the time that I had been unconscious for several months after reforging the Fury of Battle. I find that I am constantly amazed by the detail of her memory…but then again, perhaps I should not be. She is, after all, a dragon…and dragons are said to have memories even longer than elves.
"Yes, I remember Sera. I did not mean to frighten you on purpose. And I certainly did not intend to get hurt…but sometimes things happen that are beyond our control. You understand that, don't you Sera?" She slowly nodded.
"Well…you should be more careful next time. I don't want anything to happen to you." I smoothed her hair out of her face, feeling somewhat upset to see that her silver eyes were red from crying.
"Do not worry, Sera. I will be fine, and I will always be here for you." She smiled, and hugged me again. And once more, I thought to myself, this was the reason I had rescued Rhylaun Dakarios…I could not bear to inflict upon any father, what Sera's loss would inflict upon me.
Once Sera was reassured that I was fine, having suffered no lasting harm from my encounter with the owlbear, she proceeded to chatter on at me, as usual. She told me how everyone was talking about how I had saved the drow boy, and how she was so proud that I was a "hero," her words, not mine. She further went on to inform me that she'd finally met the new teacher at the school. She added that the woman was an elf, from Evermeet and further added that the new teacher was "very nice," and that Sera thought I should meet her.
I instantly recognized the look of …sneakiness that entered Sera's eyes…it was an expression she had learned, long ago, from Lita.
My sweet little Sera was up to something…and I had a fairly good idea what it was.
From the very start of our time at the school, Sera quickly made friends…and there was one thing that many of her friends have, that she doesn't. Naturally, it is something that money cannot buy, or else she would already have it, spoiled darling that she is. And I know that when it comes to a great many things, I am nearly as dense as a dwarf's skullcap, but I am not a complete idiot either.
Sera wants a mother.
Now, obviously this is something she feels only I can give her. And my girl is no fool…she seems to know exactly what she wants…and has been trying her very best to make it happen.
Now, since coming here, my choices in…partnerships have been very limited. There are plenty of elven women here…but, well, as I've said, Sera has been busy. The few I have talked with seemed friendly enough at first, but each time it seemed that one of them was about to take things any further, they suddenly had an about-face in the relationship…usually becoming friendly, but distant. I am nigh onto positive that Sera is behind this somehow, but I have not been able to discern how, as no one is talking.
My suspicions have been further compounded by Sera's more overt actions. They are fairly easy to see through, but I have not yet let on to her that I am onto her tricks. First, she will bring up the name of an elven woman she "met," usually a teacher, or one of the few, older students. Then she will go on and on about how "nice" this woman is. Finally, she will try to come up with a way to introduce the woman to me. It took two of these encounters before I managed to catch on…and two more since that time. Sera hasn't changed her tactics in anyway…I guess she assumes that I will have to eventually choose one of them.
Now, I love Sera more than my own life, and would do just about anything for her. I would love to be able to give her exactly what she wants, but the problem with this is simple: I do not want to get married…not now, and maybe not ever. I certainly don't want a wife…and if I did, I already have one lined up…my betrothed. And in the latter case, I can only hope that if I stay away from Evermeet long enough, she and her family will marry her off to someone else, freeing me. Loreleiana Moonflower is not the type who would make a good mother for Sera, anyhow.
So that is my current problem…one of many I might add. And one that has no happy resolution to it. I will not wed my betrothed, or any other woman, if I can help it. So Sera will just have to be satisfied with having only a father. Besides, if she needs to ask about "girl" things, she can always write to Lita, or my mother.
I was allowed to leave the cleric's building early the next morning, but only after they'd extracted a promise from me…no strenuous activities for a ten-day. Great! Another week of being forced to sit around, not getting anything accomplished. I swear, it seems my fate is to spend the entire vacation laid up with some wound or another.
The wounds were magically healed, they said, but not everything was fully healed. I realized that as soon as I walked out, feeling the dull pain of bruises…the magical healing had only gone to heal the life threatening wounds…not the more insignificant ones. I still don't see why a few bruises are reason enough for me to have to "take it easy." I had meant to do some work at the forge in a day or two, but was told that if I attempted to, I would be drugged into submission. Like a few bruises bothers me! But no matter how I tried to explain that I was fine, no one would listen. Even my appeals to my cousin were summarily dismissed. Liralyn claimed that she never argues with the clerics' decisions…it would be like arguing with the gods, she said…and who were mortals to argue with the gods?
Needless to say that Magnar and Tully immediately began making cracks about my "frail constitution," and going on about how, I, being such a delicate thing, should have known better that to fight an owlbear single-handedly. Normally, I might have taken offense at their remarks, but I sensed an underlying current of respect, and more than that…pride, beneath their words.
They had been angry after hearing about the fight I had with Kellenes, and they let me know it. I knew that neither of them would actually say such sentiments aloud…but all the same…they let me know in their own ways that they were proud I had finally taken the first step towards learning what the Everall school stood for: acceptance.
So with, all the extra time on my hands, seeing as I had nothing really to do, and fishing was definitely out, I decided to take a good look around…resolved to try to meet more of the people that lived and a worked in and around the school.
I quickly realized that, in my year of being here, I had continued my usual way of isolating myself…and I hardly knew more about my fellow teachers than their names. Forcing my usually standoffishness aside, I sat with some of the other instructors at lunch…relaxing in the private room for our use only, instead of hiding away in the forge. I was amazed to see just how many teachers there were at the school, even considering many were away for the break.
There are nearly 7 for magic alone…I recognized the ones I met on my first day here, but few of the others. Many of the teachers taught more than one subject…like Magnar and Tully, both of who assisted with training fighters, as well as smithing…Magnar also taught dwarven history, as well. The thing is, after talking to so many of the teachers, I finally am beginning to get a feel for what this place is all about. All of the teachers were asked to teach…and probably could make a lot more coin if they applied their skills elsewhere…the point is that this where they want to be…and that teaching the children and young adults who come to the school to learn to work together is something they put great value in. I can't help thinking that if we had all attended someplace like this in our youths, perhaps the adventuring group I had been in might have learned to work together better.