Log 15
As I fled from the gates of Castle Stormveil, I decided to explore around the vicinity of Stormhill first. However, when I rested by a site of grace, Melina revealed she had another surprise in store for me.
It seems she had been testing me, but upon being satisfied of my possessing the guidance of grace, she extended to me an invitation to the legendary Roundtable Hold.
Now here I sit, at the gathering place of champions. Even during my lifetime, the great manor was said to be the stuff of legends, where the greatest of warriors dwelled. It's clear that the place has seen better days, but even so it's a far cry from anything else I've seen since I arrived in these lands. It does me good to know that there is some place where I can rest my head, knowing peace.
Still, the place is… strange. It seems there's no way to reach it by foot, and it can only be found by teleporting to it, as I do through the sites of grace. Melina said it "existed outside of this world". I'm not learned enough to understand what that means, but at least I won't have to worry much about making the trip back if the need arises. There also seems to be some sort of enchantment on the place, preventing violence or harm. Try as I might, I can't manage to swing my sword arm, or even throw a punch, even if I wanted to, and it seems the condition extends to all those who make their stay here. It's reassuring to know I don't have to worry about someone stabbing me while I sleep, at least.
I wouldn't exactly say my welcome was a warm one, but I suppose I shouldn't have expected any less. A simple pawn like me should hardly be setting foot in this home of champions. I met the head of this place, the legendary scholar Sir Gideon Ofnir, the All-Knowing. I'd heard rumors that he had been revived when the Tarnished were called, but meeting him in the flesh was another matter entirely. Even among the knights who would typically scoff at wizards and their tricks, the name of Sir Ofnir was said with a certain reverence.
He explained to me that while I am welcome here, I am merely a guest until I prove myself worthy of fellowship amongst the Hold's champions. I did not object, of course. I intend on proving myself worthy, if worthy I am, but until then I have no illusions of being anything else than what I am. The fact that I can set foot in this place at all is honor enough for me.
The place is rather well populated, aside from just the host. I met a knight by the name of Diallos. He declined to give his name, citing that one's birth meant nothing in these parts, but I could tell from the fine make of his armor, his refined bearing, and the way he carries himself that he is of noble blood. Apparently he came to these parts accompanied by a servant whom he's grown close with, and is searching for her. I'll have to make sure to keep an eye out for her as I make my way through these lands. He played it off as irritation, but I could tell the man was worried sick.
I also came across a man wearing an odd suit of armor that seemed to be decorated with human bones, standing guard outside a closed door. He wasn't the talkative type.
Near the table was a man of the cloth who went by the name of Corhyn, offering to provide religious guidance and teach incantations. I told him I'd be happy to speak with him regarding the principles of the Golden Order, but I lack the talent for casting the incantations of clerics. He seemed understanding, a tolerant and pleasant enough sort. I should make time to sit down and speak with him. Even if I can't make use of the incantations, perhaps the knowledge of the gods will prove useful here in the lands where it originated.
One of the more curious guests here was a woman by the name of Fia. She seems a gentle, caring sort, certainly not one fit for battle. I can't imagine she intends to do battle with demigods, but I suppose us Tarnished don't have much choice but to make the pilgrimage here.
She introduced herself as a Deathbed Companion. I've never heard of the practice before but according to her it's a sacred duty in her homeland. Supposedly her kind are meant to grant new life to dead nobles by "laying", a rather macabre practice, but it seems well meaning enough. She offered to hold me in her arms, so that she might take some of my "warmth", in exchange for her blessing. I'm not sure how useful this blessing of hers will be, nor what her purpose is here, but… well, it's a bit embarrassing to admit, even in my private musings, but her offer was an appealing one. Comfort and kindness are a rarity in these parts, and it's been a long while since anyone offered to hold me. If I can gain a small bit of comfort and aid this kind woman in whatever her goals are, then I see no reason not to.
There's also a smith stationed here at the hold. Though perhaps "stationed" isn't the right word for it, as he seems to be imprisoned here. At first I took him for some sort of wild monster, but once I approached him he seemed both sentient and friendly enough. The old man introduced himself as Hewg. I don't know what he did to earn himself those shackles, but whatever the case he seems content to forge weapons for Tarnished like myself. I'm sure I'll be in need of his services throughout my quest.
Those husks near the back of the hold are unsettling to say the least, but they seem to be helpful. They seem to serve as merchants of some sort, fashioning equipment and supplies from runes. I've no idea how it works, but it's certainly useful. I fashioned myself a longbow from them and some supplies.
I'm going to rest here for a while. It's been a long day, and even though my wounds may be healed, I can still feel the ache of battle from the wounds inflicted on me by the Fell Omen.
Tomorrow, I go out in search of my fate. Whatever it may be.
-Accolon of Elis