Year of Wild Magic, 14 Present Reckoning, 24th of Eleasias
The 4th day of the last ride of Highsun.


Fear. I’ve been told that even the bravest know it. It is ones ability to control it that makes them brave.

Today, I knew fear more than I’ve ever felt it before. We came across a slaughter. I don’t think I will ever get used to the smell of rotting flesh. There were bodies strewn about the road, and a giant skeleton standing over his master’s body just off the road.

The battle was violent and swift. Amershaine, Bedwin, and Torstag fought the skeleton toe to toe, while the rest of us attacked from a distance. I was amazed by Amershaine’s ability to shrug off the wounds he sustained as if he didn’t feel them.

When the dust settled, we found we had lost one of our own. The unlucky Luckbringer fell to the giant skeleton’s powerful talons. That’s when the arguing started.

I suggested that the others go ahead while Torstag and I stay and tend to the dead, but the stubborn dwarf wouldn’t have it. He had to bury the Luckbringer by himself. I think I would have had better luck trying to talk a dragon out of his gold.

I guess it really doesn’t matter though. Torstag says we should reach Iniarv’s Tower tomorrow. One thing I know for sure is I hate the insects of the Mere, especially the mosquito. One day when I’m very powerful I shall rid the world of mosquitoes.
 

©2003 Nathan Caroland, All rights reserved.