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L'Aurel's Journal (A Kingdom of Ashes) -updated 3/23
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<blockquote data-quote="Laurel" data-source="post: 2024909" data-attributes="member: 17067"><p><strong>Chapter Five: “A Hidden Kingdom”</strong></p><p></p><p>Day Twenty-One- Hywrl</p><p></p><p>As the early morning rays break through the few thin branches above, doubt floods through me. I can say at least that I tried. I pack up the few items I had, and stretching my legs from their cramped position look for the best path down. A mass of white teeth incased in a block of green points upwards as I look down. He may not have brains, but Yoshi does have a surprising amount of loyalty. I smile unsure if Farathier let him out or if he broke loose again. The little man with his front tooth missing has not been able to perfect a saddle or harness or cage for the large beast. I slowly lower myself to the next branch, thinking what my failure means. It crosses my mind that maybe Xath or one of the others would have more luck. Archonus definitely has the patience, and the falcon he has is even more a solitary wonderer then he is. Even Inelliron, the regent, may have the key within them.</p><p></p><p></p><p>*SQWAK* The branches bend and move to accommodate a very large weight. I slowly look at the branch beside me. Seeing first large black talons, my gaze wanders upward. Gray dusted white feathers come into view, and finally I am left staring into great piercing gold eyes. They seem to be asking something of me… a smile spreads as slowly realization dawns what I am looking at. “Ohtar… yes, Ohtar is your name.” He swivels his eyes downward, and to the large green t-rex not happy with this new intruder. I laugh at Yoshi’s ferocious deep throated noise and to Ohtar, “That is Yoshi, he’s actually a friend.” I can feel Ohtar scoffing at such a lesser beast as if my own mind felt that way. The words from the book said we would be close and with time maybe we will understand the full extend of this bond.</p><p></p><p></p><p>I slowly start to work my way down the upper branches of the tree, as Ohtar gently reaches with each claw testing the branches before he steps down. And so we enter New Oceanus together. Luckily the people have gotten used to strange creatures, and a giant eagle though uncommon is easier to accept then Greylocke a dire wolf, Yoshi a large T-rex and Thane, a griffon.</p><p></p><p></p><p>I stay with Ohtar for a few hours as we test our bonds and limits. Like any new friendship time will be the biggest help. At his gesture, I find I can ride his back though a little unsteady. I watched from a tree top as he hunted his meal, and even some of his aerial tricks. As Anon grew higher in the sky I grew in my knowledge of Ohtar’s abilities, speed, and even speech.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Around mid-day, we return to Link’s tree, since I know I can not leave for long. We only barely set down when a lanky high elf boy runs up to me thrusting out a shaky hand. I take the square folder piece of paper with it’s wax seal. I soon learn it is from Justice summoning me to her room at Hywrl. The boy takes a few more glances at Ohtar, not running away but hundreds of questions running through his eyes. With heated feelings, I think- well, apparently now we are too good to find each other we just send someone to find us.</p><p></p><p>It takes an extra few minutes for me to assure myself that Ohtar will not leave immediately. And as I point to where I am going he easily lifts off sending clouds of dust up. Adding that to the list of things we will need to talk on as I watch people scurry out of the way. I see his great white form land on the palace roof. I nod to the page and walk briskly toward the palace walls.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Continuing inside and up the stairs to the second floor I continue to feel Ohtar presence. As I enter Justice’s room, I see there is a tea service on the table. Without greeting, Justice remains sitting in one chair and waves me to the other. She pours me a cup and sits back, not sure if she is trying to give a lesson, I do not need, in how to drink tea, I sit and wait. She looks surprisingly nervous.</p><p></p><p>Taking a deep breath, she begins, "Raising an army is quite possibly the most important aspect of our quest... we cannot fight this war alone-- eight people, no matter how powerful, will never trump the forces we are fighting... You saw the vast numbers that assaulted Oceanus-- and that is only a small portion of what the Dragon Empire has to offer... It is for this reason that I make two requests... First, contrary to what I was taught to believe, wizards are not inherently evil. I believe that you, the Baroness of Hyrwl must extend her official pardon to any and all wizards." She sighs deeply, at least she can admit to her wrong doing more easily now. The lessons have been hard, but apparently she is learning also. "Wizards are powerful in battle and a resource that we can use with no limits! From weapons to combat, they will prove to be a crucial part of winning the battle against darkness. Second, you must make known Link's forgiveness of the High Elves. Send out your word that The Woodshadow has embraced their kind--relinquished all hatred and malice-- Let it be known that now is the time for them to fight. Fight to redeem their Past-- and fight to preserve their Future." With that, she castes her gaze to face me expectantly, "Will you fulfill my requests, L'Aurel Woodshadow?"</p><p></p><p>I can see the wisdom in the paladins words, but has she seen nothing... I set the tea cup down and try to calmly respond, “I am already helping to arm and train some of the people using all the means at my disposal. You may have seen Farthier and Arfin in the fields. As for the high elves and bluemages,” This is an area I should not have to explain to Justice, I gave my word to Link as he lay there dying. Justice was there… even after all this she would still doubt me, doubt my word.</p><p></p><p>In the short breath of silence Justice interrupts, “If we send out a pardon, they can be the key to a strong, successful army. As to the high elves, it isn't enough to make sure that they ‘get the word’ --that doesn't guarantee they will come to us. We must invite them to come to us-- to fight for us--and for their honor. Randall, head of the mages is a wizard... he is the key to sending out a pardon. Such an important person being able to hide that he is a wizard for so long means that he has connections... and we'll use those connections to reach each and every wizard we can... and from there, we have a very strong foundation for the army...” Justice pushes this, and seems to no longer be requesting my help, but demanding it. “The Army of the Phoenix cannot consist of seven people-- it simply isn't feasible... And, if we are to take back Oceanus and gather the Liege Blades, we cannot go it alone... we need an army... We are rebels and, as such, we must pull at marginalized and alienated peoples... ie, wizards and high elves. You have the power to bring them to us.”</p><p></p><p>“Xath send a call out to the areas around us with the proper signatures attached.” I have been trying to do my best, spreading the word and getting us aid. No one told me Randall was a bluemage… secrets still…instead it gets told to me along with a command. With measured movements I stand and go to the door, calling for a servant. The boy had first gave me the message appears quickly. I asks him to find Randall the mage and ask him to come here, but he should wait for him so he knows where to go.</p><p></p><p>Turning back into the room, I say to Justice, "The Army of the Phoenix is not just seven." Not knowing what else to do or say to get this across to her I go to the window and point to where Farathir and Arfin are hard at work. "Even now we train and gather more to our cause." Dropping my hand, I look into the distance where New Oceanus sits, "Though we will have much to explain first. If these people follow us they must know we not only fight these demons from the West, but also the king. We are known rebels, but we have told these people that I am here by the throne's grace.... the throne to them means Tain." I hang my head remembering all the half-lies. Pulling myself together and moving to pace the room, I continue "If we use Hwryl as a base to bring in outcaste people, I make these people here choose to be a target marked for death or force them from their homes again." Taking a deep breath and looking at Justice, "I will do all that I can to erase the shame of the High Alder as I gave my word to Link. If you know how to speed the word, tell me. I am trying to gather them to us. But we must start now to form the end lie for we will tell them all the same mission which ever it may be." I finally look back out the window and at the people I hopes I will not fail. The people they will save and Jaine will rule.</p><p></p><p>When the servant nocks to announce Randall, I turn to Justice, “Will you let me first ask him my questions and not interfere? My duty is to Jaine and this town, what I do and proclaim as Countess of Hywrl could save or condemn these people.”</p><p></p><p>Justice, lifts her head proudly, "Ask all you would like. I have spoken with Randall already... He is willing to send out the call-- and awaits my command. Lady Woodshadow, I feel the wizards may be our only hope." Another secret for Justice. This should be something for the circle to decide not for one person. I fear if I did not hold the title to sign to those paper that any of us would have known before the orders went out. She knows the fears of some, and she knows our oath. It seems secrets are not part of it.</p><p></p><p>When Randall enters, I look him straight in the eye and remain standing. Justice remains seated as she has not moved from her chair yet. I want this over with quickly. Turning to the man I ask, "I am sorry to take some of your time, master Randall, but I had to speak to you. Are you a wizard?"</p><p></p><p>He looks abashed, but meets my gaze. "What of it? Shall I be hounded, even here? I have performed no crime, save seeking knowledge that old, foolish laws would prevent us from gaining."</p><p></p><p>"I take that to be a yes," I pause to see if Randall will defend or condemn himself.</p><p></p><p>"So, there will be no persecution?" he asks, hope evident in his voice.</p><p></p><p>"Do you wish there to be one?" The anger from earlier still simmering below the surface flares for a second. It is not against him though, so with a quick release of breath I calmly reply, "No, enough blood has been spilled, and I must now atone for what I fear my ancestor did for lost love." Still looking in his eyes, "Would you forgive Link Woodshadow for condemning and slaughtering so many of your brethren?"</p><p></p><p>"The dead are beyond my power to forgive, or not. The Woodshadow did what he felt he had to, however misguided. Yet, while his actions were terrible, they are not the reason I have hid for so long. The very real fear of death, of persecution, nearly stopped my research a thousand times. Yet, I decided that knowledge cannot be evil in an of itself...and so I persevered. If you wish to make this a haven for Bluemages, I will aid you...but know that not all are as strong myself. Many are bitter opportunists, every bit as evil as the law would have you believe. They will come, as well...but it is a start. It is hope."</p><p></p><p>I feel my lips curve slightly, “I thank you for your honesty. Many would have tried to lie or flatter me… I would grant the bluemages amnesty, but not for anything done or said today. Instead I would grant it because no knowledge should be forbidden. But would you have me simply bare open the gates wide? There is still hostility and there are still those who wish evil.”</p><p></p><p>Apparently having thought on this a great deal Randall quickly suggests, “Instead of a general amnesty, you make it a conditional amnesty. Only those that fight for you for a period of say--one year?--will be granted total amnesty, and the right to continue their talent after the year is up. That way, some of the real bastards will stay away. I can offer some training for those who wish to learn, but they must also take the year's service in the Army of the Phoenix.”</p><p></p><p>I slowly nod my head thinking through his words. Justice rises for the first time and starts to move toward the door. Still keeping my focus in Randell, I ask, “That should hopefully alleviate some issues, and we can only hope to weed out the others. Hopefully decisions will be made soon. Until then, I am sorry, but must ask that this truth and good news remain a secret a little longer. I would wish the best transition and need everyone to be the best possibly prepared to protect you and others when the time comes.”</p><p></p><p>He nods slowly saying, "I shall keep my secret for a while longer, as I have throughout these long years. Simply say the world, and I shall bare the truth to the world."</p><p></p><p>"I can only thank you again, and hope you now understand why I greeted you as I did. I had to see you for you, since much more is stake here then any one life." As I say this Justice goes to the door leading the mage out. Quietly as they reach the door she utters, “I will talk with you more later.”</p><p></p><p>After the door is closed I do not turn around. We made an oath scant days ago and here in from of me she has said how she will have a private meeting to speak with the mage further. Apparently I was only needed to give the initial okay, and the rest of the circle was not to be involved at all. I just need everyone to have a say in it, and it effects all of us. They also may have other suggestions or ideas on what to do to make sure this is the best way. As Justice moves away from the door I move toward it saying, "One more hurdle down with many more to go. We will tell the others before the day is done of the door we opened here. There we must decide how much to tell the people, and that will decide if the gates can be opened to them or if we choose another spot for this anarchy."</p><p></p><p>Justice’s commanding voice came to me, "L'Aurel... I cannot stress how much I believe that the Wizards need to be included. At this point, I would go so far as to say that it is a necessity in order for the army to achieve anything... our numbers are so small... all of the training that Farathir and Arfin do will not suffice to form the kind of army we need to go forward with our quest. The conditional amnesty is a perfect idea... and a way to protect our backs as much as possible... any risk that the Wizards may pose, I am more than willing to take--for the sake of the army... and for the sake of the kingdom."</p><p></p><p>Hand reaching out to the door knob, I still don’t turn around, responding, "I have already said that I will grant them amnesty and bring them to fight for us. I know we need them, though Farathier does a good job. I know we need more then those soldiers to fight all the forces before us. All this we have said before. So let us go and speak to the others.” With that I open the door and do not wait to see if she follows as I leave the room.</p><p></p><p>Ohtar it seems is feeding emotions in and around me, and I will have to work on controlling min better again. Maybe it is simply naivety, but I don’t remember ever being so easily angered. I would have though hurt would be my reaction to Justice’s actions. My thoughts continue on as we wait for the others to join us.</p><p></p><p>That night we as a group discuss the need to call the bluemages to us, and the need to let the Duke, Korienne, and Seaborn in on everything. We have to be ready for a revolt, which though not likely, is a possibility. Kareth wisely mentions that we should have proof before we proclaim everything to the people. Justice seems to think her words alone will carry enough weight to turn all in our favor.</p><p></p><p>Shortly we all agree proof would be the best thing to have before we went to the people with knowledge of the King being behind the destruction and occupation of Oceanus. It would lend a great weight to our story. Through these talks a plan starts to form, and as the night went on it became more solid. By the time we were all yawning, we had a plan and an action. In the morning we would make all the arrangements.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Laurel, post: 2024909, member: 17067"] [b]Chapter Five: “A Hidden Kingdom”[/b] Day Twenty-One- Hywrl As the early morning rays break through the few thin branches above, doubt floods through me. I can say at least that I tried. I pack up the few items I had, and stretching my legs from their cramped position look for the best path down. A mass of white teeth incased in a block of green points upwards as I look down. He may not have brains, but Yoshi does have a surprising amount of loyalty. I smile unsure if Farathier let him out or if he broke loose again. The little man with his front tooth missing has not been able to perfect a saddle or harness or cage for the large beast. I slowly lower myself to the next branch, thinking what my failure means. It crosses my mind that maybe Xath or one of the others would have more luck. Archonus definitely has the patience, and the falcon he has is even more a solitary wonderer then he is. Even Inelliron, the regent, may have the key within them. *SQWAK* The branches bend and move to accommodate a very large weight. I slowly look at the branch beside me. Seeing first large black talons, my gaze wanders upward. Gray dusted white feathers come into view, and finally I am left staring into great piercing gold eyes. They seem to be asking something of me… a smile spreads as slowly realization dawns what I am looking at. “Ohtar… yes, Ohtar is your name.” He swivels his eyes downward, and to the large green t-rex not happy with this new intruder. I laugh at Yoshi’s ferocious deep throated noise and to Ohtar, “That is Yoshi, he’s actually a friend.” I can feel Ohtar scoffing at such a lesser beast as if my own mind felt that way. The words from the book said we would be close and with time maybe we will understand the full extend of this bond. I slowly start to work my way down the upper branches of the tree, as Ohtar gently reaches with each claw testing the branches before he steps down. And so we enter New Oceanus together. Luckily the people have gotten used to strange creatures, and a giant eagle though uncommon is easier to accept then Greylocke a dire wolf, Yoshi a large T-rex and Thane, a griffon. I stay with Ohtar for a few hours as we test our bonds and limits. Like any new friendship time will be the biggest help. At his gesture, I find I can ride his back though a little unsteady. I watched from a tree top as he hunted his meal, and even some of his aerial tricks. As Anon grew higher in the sky I grew in my knowledge of Ohtar’s abilities, speed, and even speech. Around mid-day, we return to Link’s tree, since I know I can not leave for long. We only barely set down when a lanky high elf boy runs up to me thrusting out a shaky hand. I take the square folder piece of paper with it’s wax seal. I soon learn it is from Justice summoning me to her room at Hywrl. The boy takes a few more glances at Ohtar, not running away but hundreds of questions running through his eyes. With heated feelings, I think- well, apparently now we are too good to find each other we just send someone to find us. It takes an extra few minutes for me to assure myself that Ohtar will not leave immediately. And as I point to where I am going he easily lifts off sending clouds of dust up. Adding that to the list of things we will need to talk on as I watch people scurry out of the way. I see his great white form land on the palace roof. I nod to the page and walk briskly toward the palace walls. Continuing inside and up the stairs to the second floor I continue to feel Ohtar presence. As I enter Justice’s room, I see there is a tea service on the table. Without greeting, Justice remains sitting in one chair and waves me to the other. She pours me a cup and sits back, not sure if she is trying to give a lesson, I do not need, in how to drink tea, I sit and wait. She looks surprisingly nervous. Taking a deep breath, she begins, "Raising an army is quite possibly the most important aspect of our quest... we cannot fight this war alone-- eight people, no matter how powerful, will never trump the forces we are fighting... You saw the vast numbers that assaulted Oceanus-- and that is only a small portion of what the Dragon Empire has to offer... It is for this reason that I make two requests... First, contrary to what I was taught to believe, wizards are not inherently evil. I believe that you, the Baroness of Hyrwl must extend her official pardon to any and all wizards." She sighs deeply, at least she can admit to her wrong doing more easily now. The lessons have been hard, but apparently she is learning also. "Wizards are powerful in battle and a resource that we can use with no limits! From weapons to combat, they will prove to be a crucial part of winning the battle against darkness. Second, you must make known Link's forgiveness of the High Elves. Send out your word that The Woodshadow has embraced their kind--relinquished all hatred and malice-- Let it be known that now is the time for them to fight. Fight to redeem their Past-- and fight to preserve their Future." With that, she castes her gaze to face me expectantly, "Will you fulfill my requests, L'Aurel Woodshadow?" I can see the wisdom in the paladins words, but has she seen nothing... I set the tea cup down and try to calmly respond, “I am already helping to arm and train some of the people using all the means at my disposal. You may have seen Farthier and Arfin in the fields. As for the high elves and bluemages,” This is an area I should not have to explain to Justice, I gave my word to Link as he lay there dying. Justice was there… even after all this she would still doubt me, doubt my word. In the short breath of silence Justice interrupts, “If we send out a pardon, they can be the key to a strong, successful army. As to the high elves, it isn't enough to make sure that they ‘get the word’ --that doesn't guarantee they will come to us. We must invite them to come to us-- to fight for us--and for their honor. Randall, head of the mages is a wizard... he is the key to sending out a pardon. Such an important person being able to hide that he is a wizard for so long means that he has connections... and we'll use those connections to reach each and every wizard we can... and from there, we have a very strong foundation for the army...” Justice pushes this, and seems to no longer be requesting my help, but demanding it. “The Army of the Phoenix cannot consist of seven people-- it simply isn't feasible... And, if we are to take back Oceanus and gather the Liege Blades, we cannot go it alone... we need an army... We are rebels and, as such, we must pull at marginalized and alienated peoples... ie, wizards and high elves. You have the power to bring them to us.” “Xath send a call out to the areas around us with the proper signatures attached.” I have been trying to do my best, spreading the word and getting us aid. No one told me Randall was a bluemage… secrets still…instead it gets told to me along with a command. With measured movements I stand and go to the door, calling for a servant. The boy had first gave me the message appears quickly. I asks him to find Randall the mage and ask him to come here, but he should wait for him so he knows where to go. Turning back into the room, I say to Justice, "The Army of the Phoenix is not just seven." Not knowing what else to do or say to get this across to her I go to the window and point to where Farathir and Arfin are hard at work. "Even now we train and gather more to our cause." Dropping my hand, I look into the distance where New Oceanus sits, "Though we will have much to explain first. If these people follow us they must know we not only fight these demons from the West, but also the king. We are known rebels, but we have told these people that I am here by the throne's grace.... the throne to them means Tain." I hang my head remembering all the half-lies. Pulling myself together and moving to pace the room, I continue "If we use Hwryl as a base to bring in outcaste people, I make these people here choose to be a target marked for death or force them from their homes again." Taking a deep breath and looking at Justice, "I will do all that I can to erase the shame of the High Alder as I gave my word to Link. If you know how to speed the word, tell me. I am trying to gather them to us. But we must start now to form the end lie for we will tell them all the same mission which ever it may be." I finally look back out the window and at the people I hopes I will not fail. The people they will save and Jaine will rule. When the servant nocks to announce Randall, I turn to Justice, “Will you let me first ask him my questions and not interfere? My duty is to Jaine and this town, what I do and proclaim as Countess of Hywrl could save or condemn these people.” Justice, lifts her head proudly, "Ask all you would like. I have spoken with Randall already... He is willing to send out the call-- and awaits my command. Lady Woodshadow, I feel the wizards may be our only hope." Another secret for Justice. This should be something for the circle to decide not for one person. I fear if I did not hold the title to sign to those paper that any of us would have known before the orders went out. She knows the fears of some, and she knows our oath. It seems secrets are not part of it. When Randall enters, I look him straight in the eye and remain standing. Justice remains seated as she has not moved from her chair yet. I want this over with quickly. Turning to the man I ask, "I am sorry to take some of your time, master Randall, but I had to speak to you. Are you a wizard?" He looks abashed, but meets my gaze. "What of it? Shall I be hounded, even here? I have performed no crime, save seeking knowledge that old, foolish laws would prevent us from gaining." "I take that to be a yes," I pause to see if Randall will defend or condemn himself. "So, there will be no persecution?" he asks, hope evident in his voice. "Do you wish there to be one?" The anger from earlier still simmering below the surface flares for a second. It is not against him though, so with a quick release of breath I calmly reply, "No, enough blood has been spilled, and I must now atone for what I fear my ancestor did for lost love." Still looking in his eyes, "Would you forgive Link Woodshadow for condemning and slaughtering so many of your brethren?" "The dead are beyond my power to forgive, or not. The Woodshadow did what he felt he had to, however misguided. Yet, while his actions were terrible, they are not the reason I have hid for so long. The very real fear of death, of persecution, nearly stopped my research a thousand times. Yet, I decided that knowledge cannot be evil in an of itself...and so I persevered. If you wish to make this a haven for Bluemages, I will aid you...but know that not all are as strong myself. Many are bitter opportunists, every bit as evil as the law would have you believe. They will come, as well...but it is a start. It is hope." I feel my lips curve slightly, “I thank you for your honesty. Many would have tried to lie or flatter me… I would grant the bluemages amnesty, but not for anything done or said today. Instead I would grant it because no knowledge should be forbidden. But would you have me simply bare open the gates wide? There is still hostility and there are still those who wish evil.” Apparently having thought on this a great deal Randall quickly suggests, “Instead of a general amnesty, you make it a conditional amnesty. Only those that fight for you for a period of say--one year?--will be granted total amnesty, and the right to continue their talent after the year is up. That way, some of the real bastards will stay away. I can offer some training for those who wish to learn, but they must also take the year's service in the Army of the Phoenix.” I slowly nod my head thinking through his words. Justice rises for the first time and starts to move toward the door. Still keeping my focus in Randell, I ask, “That should hopefully alleviate some issues, and we can only hope to weed out the others. Hopefully decisions will be made soon. Until then, I am sorry, but must ask that this truth and good news remain a secret a little longer. I would wish the best transition and need everyone to be the best possibly prepared to protect you and others when the time comes.” He nods slowly saying, "I shall keep my secret for a while longer, as I have throughout these long years. Simply say the world, and I shall bare the truth to the world." "I can only thank you again, and hope you now understand why I greeted you as I did. I had to see you for you, since much more is stake here then any one life." As I say this Justice goes to the door leading the mage out. Quietly as they reach the door she utters, “I will talk with you more later.” After the door is closed I do not turn around. We made an oath scant days ago and here in from of me she has said how she will have a private meeting to speak with the mage further. Apparently I was only needed to give the initial okay, and the rest of the circle was not to be involved at all. I just need everyone to have a say in it, and it effects all of us. They also may have other suggestions or ideas on what to do to make sure this is the best way. As Justice moves away from the door I move toward it saying, "One more hurdle down with many more to go. We will tell the others before the day is done of the door we opened here. There we must decide how much to tell the people, and that will decide if the gates can be opened to them or if we choose another spot for this anarchy." Justice’s commanding voice came to me, "L'Aurel... I cannot stress how much I believe that the Wizards need to be included. At this point, I would go so far as to say that it is a necessity in order for the army to achieve anything... our numbers are so small... all of the training that Farathir and Arfin do will not suffice to form the kind of army we need to go forward with our quest. The conditional amnesty is a perfect idea... and a way to protect our backs as much as possible... any risk that the Wizards may pose, I am more than willing to take--for the sake of the army... and for the sake of the kingdom." Hand reaching out to the door knob, I still don’t turn around, responding, "I have already said that I will grant them amnesty and bring them to fight for us. I know we need them, though Farathier does a good job. I know we need more then those soldiers to fight all the forces before us. All this we have said before. So let us go and speak to the others.” With that I open the door and do not wait to see if she follows as I leave the room. Ohtar it seems is feeding emotions in and around me, and I will have to work on controlling min better again. Maybe it is simply naivety, but I don’t remember ever being so easily angered. I would have though hurt would be my reaction to Justice’s actions. My thoughts continue on as we wait for the others to join us. That night we as a group discuss the need to call the bluemages to us, and the need to let the Duke, Korienne, and Seaborn in on everything. We have to be ready for a revolt, which though not likely, is a possibility. Kareth wisely mentions that we should have proof before we proclaim everything to the people. Justice seems to think her words alone will carry enough weight to turn all in our favor. Shortly we all agree proof would be the best thing to have before we went to the people with knowledge of the King being behind the destruction and occupation of Oceanus. It would lend a great weight to our story. Through these talks a plan starts to form, and as the night went on it became more solid. By the time we were all yawning, we had a plan and an action. In the morning we would make all the arrangements. [/QUOTE]
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L'Aurel's Journal (A Kingdom of Ashes) -updated 3/23
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