An Aesthetic shows you to a small reading room.

Stories of Ansalon from the view of Ahmaria.

A little gully dwarf runs by and says 'Wordwrap is at 65. You change? Off 65 80.'
The gully continues 'Eyes hurt? Turn Color OFF!! (regular story dates)

Astinus says 'Enter the main library here to view only the author list.'
Astinus gently places a heavy platinum-covered book on the table in front of you.
You note the spine bears the word 'Ahmaria' scribed in dark brown ink.

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Mar 28 02:40:34 2009
Subject     Leaving Home

She woke in the early morning with the sunlight just peering over
the
horizon. A slight breeze drifted through her hair causeing her to
shutter.
She blinked trying to put the past few days behind her. It all
seemed so
unreal. She closed her eyes and focused for the first time on the
strange
events that had led her here.  Her father had smiled at her as
she brought
her bow down.  Very good! We will eat well tonight. His pride
for his
youngest daughter shined in his eyes as he laughed.  Now go on
and claim
your kill so we can get it cleaned. It will be nice to reach home
early.  As
she walked the distance to her fallen prey, she had turned in
time to see a
figure cloaked in black. Time had seemed to stall there in that
moment. Fire
eruupted from the figure. She fell to the ground seeking shelter.
The fire
had been magical and disapeared as it consumed its target, her
father. She
had remaind face down to the ground for what seemed like hours
shocked. She
recognized the caster of the fatal spell without a doubt in her
mind, her
mother. 

It had happend then that voices filled the woods calling her
name. The
voices of her four sisters. Something pulled at the back of her
mind telling
her her mother had sent them to find her. It was then she ran. To
where she
hoped at least the gods knew, but she kept running.  She opened
her eyes
fighting the tears that threatend to come. She packed up what
little she had
with her glad for atleast the supplies she carried with her when
her and her
father would hunt. In time she will find answers to her recent
tragic loss.
For now she travels in search of safety and training to help her
seek all
that she will need when that time comes. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Mar 28 22:32:52 2009
Subject     in Solace

She had taken a chance opening her eyes on the flight to Solace.
The
sight was breath taking and she found her grip loosing and the
trip became
like a gift of blissful freedom. Astonished with herself, soon
she became
comfortable on the back of the gryphon. The view of the large
vallenwood
trees brought a smile to her face as the flight neard its end and
they
landed. Her head felt clear as she was led to the Inn. Faelri
quickly left
after seeing her to a room and said he would return when it was
time for the
next meal. She made her way around the small comfortable room,
and took
advantage of the time alone to clean p after her journey.
Thoughts once
again flooded her mind of her family troubles. It was these
thought that
lead her to decide she did not want to run forever. Perhaps the
gods had led
these men to her so that she would no longer need to. She
finished tending
to herself and waited for Faelri to return. Perhaps they were
willing to
help her further. She said a pray silently to her goddess as a
knock sounded
on the door. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Mon Mar 30 01:27:20 2009
Subject     Meal time

Faelri and Ahmaria ate in silence for most the meal. After taking
a sip
of the watered wine, she looked at his face and studied him for a
moment.
"Forgive my forwardness, you have helped me so much already,
but I have
something else I would like to ask of you.  Faelri nodded
slightly in her
direction letting her continue. " I do not want to live on the
run from my
sisters and my mother. I am sure with what has already happend
the magic
they control together could easily find me." Again he nodded
"And you would
like further protection from the wildrunners?"

Ahmaria shook her head "No. Training....There is little my
hunting skills
can do to protect me from these kinds of magics." Faelri sat
for a moment as
if thinking it through. "You have a sword?" " Yes, it was
acctually my
father's but I have it. " He smiled slightly toward her. "If
training is
truley what you desire, we will begin there in the morning".
She returned
his smile and thanked him again and they finsihed the meal with
light but
pleasant conversation. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sun Apr  5 05:02:45 2009
Subject     Training first test

Faelri's demeanor changed over night and in the long days and
weeks that
followed, he was no longer there to protect her. He had become a
personal
trainer. She was happy for the chance to learn what he could
teach but the
price for it was painful lesson after painful lesson.  "Child
your father
taught you well the ways of a hunter and you show skill to rival
any master
hunter. Now it is time we take those skills and show you how to
use them in
other ways. You will need to mold those skills to be like a
warriors as
well." Ahmaria had begun to feel a confidence in herself she
had only felt
before when she hunted with her father. She was determined to put
her
emotions at the back of her mind and refused to let them
interfere in her
daily tasks. It was on one of the colder mornings that she
finally realized
how at home she had become holding a blade. She had walked out in
to the
woods and came to where they trained every morning and found that
Faelri was
no where to be found. Ahmaria began to practice her routine with
her sword.
It was not long before Faelri's tardiness began to bother her.
She looked
around her carefully and noticed the slightest movement in the
trees above
her. She smiled and almost laughed.  "Funny, usually I am the
one late to
our early sessions.  She looked up expecting to see Faelri
emerge from the
branches. The figure that dropped in front of her was not him.
She held her
sword steady at her side unsure of the intrusion. The man was
human and it
was hard to read what intentions he had toward her. He smirked at
her as she
studied him and took a quick lunge toward her. She jumped back
quickly. Her
sword met his as it blocked another swing toward her middle. He
continued to
smile as he swung again. Ahmaria parried three of his blows
easily enough
but each strike came faster and more aggressive. His next blow
knocked her
on her back and disarmed her. She quickly rolled away from
another swing of
his sword. Still down, she rolled back toward him and tripped him
with a
swift kick. She jumped up quickly and reached for her sword. She
swung at
the man as he had returned to standing. He moved with a speed she
could not
help but admire. Her next swing he blocked moved out of her
reach. They
circled the clearing for a few moments assessing one another. He
suddenly
lunged toward her. As Ahmaria moved quickly away, his blade
nicked at her
left shoulder. She felt the burning pain of the wound as it bleed
freely.
She did not let it slow her momentum and continued in her turn
away from
him. She brought her body low and swung her leg to trip him. He
fell to the
ground with a startled look on his face and she found it her turn
to smirk.
Still armed he swung at her while lying on his back. She parried
once again
and stuck his blade hard enough to disarm him. She kicked his
sword out of
his reach as she pointed the tip of hers at his throat. "
That's enough
Ahmaria." Faelri stepped in to the area as she pulled her sword
back as he
continued speaking.  "I think you are ready for the next part
of your
training." The man stood and nodded at Faelri and smiling again
to Ahmaria "
Thank you for the exercise my dear, now I must return to my
duties." Faelri
spoke to her again " Gather your things, child. We have
somewhere to be." 


Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Apr 11 03:30:53 2009
Subject     The Trial

The task given to her itself was no real problem. Three nights in
the
wilderness. Surviving on her own. Alone. It was that one word,
'Alone', that
brought a chill and element of fear in to Ahmaria's heart. She
quickly
prayed that Mishakal keep her safe and that her mother and
sisters had given
up their search for her. As the sun rose she met Faelri who
waited with a
single gryphon and a pack of the only items she would be allowed
to take
with her. "The gryphon will take you in to the forest. It is
your task to
not only survive, but to find your way to several locations with
in." She
crawled up on to the gryphon and held on. Although she had become
more
familiar with the creatures, she was still unsure of leaving the
safety of
the ground. It was not long in the air before she could make out
the outline
of the Qualinost. She focused on keeping her eyes watchful of the
forest and
any landmarks she could as it approached. Soon the gryphon
landed. The beast
seemed to soar back in to the skys the moment she jumped from
it's back.
Looking around she decided the best place to go was up. She
climbed in to a
tree and sat to rest on a branch while she inspected her pack.
Besides being
allowed her bow in side her pack she had been given a hunting
dagger, half a
dozen arrows, a crudly hand drawn map with marks on five
locations, and an
empty water skin. "Well first things first,  She spoke to
herself,  "I need
to find water." She climbed further in to the tree so that she
could see the
surrounding area. After scanning the forest she made out what
appeared to be
a small stream not far from her. She made her way slowly out of
the tree and
began her small hike toward the flowing water. With in the next
hour she had
filled her water skin and found a nice shelterd place along the
stream to
sit and study her surroundings once more. She removed the map and
studied it
the best she could with the poor quality of it's content. Her
first land
mark surprisingly showed to be just further up stream. Not
wanting to put
the tasks set before her off, she stood and made her way up
stream. Another
silent prayer to her goddess and hopes her family was far from
reaching her
ran through her mind as mid day passed. A small clearing came in
to view. As
she reached it she could only assume it was her first location.
Upon a stump
in the middle of the clearing was a single gryphon feather. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Apr 11 06:20:48 2009
Subject     Trail part 2

The night came more quickly then she would have liked. It was
only her
first night and her spirits were already begining to sink. Soon
after
finding her first location it began to storm. Ahmaria decided
then to
continue moving toward the next area hoping she was going in the
correct
direction. There was no place she could comfortably rest for the
night.
Besides, with or without the storm, she had no intention of
lighting a fire.
 " That would be all I would need, to light a fire....I would
just as rather
scream in to this foul wind 'Hello Mother I am here come and get
me'..."
There was enough lightning flashing through the trees that she
was able to
see somewhat of her surroundings. With any luck, any creature
that would try
to prey on her would have been smart enough to seek refuge from
the storm.
She pulled her cloak around her tighter as the rain and wind beat
on her and
slowed any progress she made moving through the forest. As the
night wore on
and she grew more tired she almost thought she could hear
laughter howling
in the wind. Finally the storm began to die down and there was no
longer a
sorce of light that was enough for her to see. Ahmaria climbed a
large pine
tree and tried to keep calm. Although the storm had ceased and
the wind was
no longer as strong, she could still hear the sounds of laughter.
Mocking
her almost it seemd. Convincing herself that it could be nothing
more then
lack of sleep, Ahmaria finally drifted in to a light sleep. Her
last
thoughts of the night were that she had 4 more check points to
get through
and now only 2 more nights to do it in. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Apr 11 23:16:54 2009
Subject     Trail part 3

The storm had left the ground wet and hard to traverse. She
stayed as
near to the trees as possible, using over grown roots to keep
herself from
sinking in to the mud. Her mood seemed to worse and by late
morning she
found herself taking an early rest high in another tree. Ahmaria
took a
moment to pray once again for safety and guidence. As she raised
her head
she took a deep breath. The sun had begun to shine through to the
forest
floor. The trees around her almost lit up with the glitening
water that
still clung to the branches. She could not help but smile at the
sight. The
light around her helped to brighten her mood. If it was something
in the air
in the air, or her godess herself, something peaceful came to
rest at the
back of her mind. It seemed to tell her to go and and that here
her family
would be no threat. Ahmaria stole away a few more of these
peaceful moments
before teh sun passed behind a group of clouds. With a quick word
of thanks
to the heavens, she climbed from her perch and continued on. By
evening she
had collected another two feathers marking her locations. She was
blessed
even more with a quick shot that ended in a pleasant meal. It
once again
stormed that night as she rested high in the branches. Although
the rain
kept her from sleeping she found she did not mind it as much.
Besides, it
helped so much more to keep her trial coverd. That in itself
seemed a gift
from nature and her goddess in one, helping again her confidence
that her
mother and sisters would not come for her here. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Mon Apr 13 16:56:44 2009
Subject     the trial ends

Three nights of bitter cold rain storms were taking a toll on
Ahmaria.
Her muscles ached, she was tired, chilled to the bone and hoped
for a long
bath. The night before she refused to sleep and had to continue
on. By late
morning she had found all but one of the checkpoints. She was
overwhelmed
and relieved as a large clearing came in to view. It was the last
location
on the map. She hoped that it also meant that her task would be
soon
complete. She stood back hidden by the trees and scanned the
clearing
carefully. The rain had slowed to a murky drizzle and a light fog
covered
the ground. As she continued to watch the clearing she found her
self
thinking about the past days. Ahmaria still held a respectful
fear of her
sisters and mother, but had decided the fear would not keep her
from
pressing on in her life and her own goals. She was able to fully
mourn her
fathers passing and would honor him by continuing to live by what
he had
taught her as she grew. She had also realized she longed to go
home and that
now that home was with the wild runners. She now thought of many
of them as
friends as well as a group she was learning much from as well as
about them.
The fog was beginning to lift when she heard a familiar cry.
Floating in to
the clearing was a young gryphon. She approached it smiling. 
"I suppose you
were kind enough to leave these feathers for me?"  She climbed
up on its
back and patted him on the neck.  "I suppose if we keep meeting
like this I
should at least learn your name."  With a small laugh, the
gryphon jumped
and took flight. Ahmaria could not help but smile as she realized
some of
the changes in herself. That must have been the purpose of this
test she had
been set to. She was happy at what she had learned about herself
and new
confidence she had found in herself. She was especially delighted
when the
gryphon circled and headed toward home. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Thu Apr 23 03:41:44 2009
Subject     Ahmaria

Ahmaria knew it would be a matter of time before someone else
might see
through her disguise. Some how the gryphons themselves had seen
past to what
she truly was. Not only that, she did not trust that the magic
that hid her
true self would hold much longer. She was amazed it had lasted
this long.
She returned to her room that night, still in human form. She sat
and began
to write, hoping it would hold off any questions that were likely
to come
her way.

 My fellow Wildrunners, I have come to regards you all as a new
family for
me. It is for this reason that I must share with you a secret I
have kept
for these past months. Most of you know how I fled from my mother
and
sisters after the death of my father. What I should have told you
is that my
father and I had fled from them before although I do not fully
understand
why. I believe that my father knew that my mothers heart had
backend. I tell
you this in hopes it helps explain things better when I tell you
I am not
from the Caergoth region that I was found in. We fled from across
the New
Sea. A friend of my fathers cast a spell of some potency to keep
us hidden
and protected. I only hope that you are not offended when I
reveal to you
that I am not who I have appeared to be. I no longer feel that I
should hide
from my family. Because of this, I tell you that I am not human.
I am
Qualinesti. I have learned much from you all in my training and I
hope that
I am able to continue learning from you all. Thank you all for
everything
that you have shown me. 

'Sincerly'

    _____                               __   __)           
  (, /  |  /)                ,        (, ) /              
    /---| (/  ___   _   __     _        /(  _/_ _____ __  
 ) /    |_/ )_// (_(_(_/ (__(_(_(_   ) /  \_(__(_)/ (_/ (_
(_/                                 (_/                   



Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Fri May 15 16:51:34 2009
Subject     new orders

Ahmaria woke unusually early and remained in bed staring at the
bunk
above her. Her new room mate was fast asleep. She wished she had
been able
to sleep just as soundly. She would have if it had not been for
the nagging
restlessness she had been feeling for the past few days. She felt
as if she
was stuck in an endless waiting period. A few words of
encouragement came
from a wildrunner who had just returned from his own travels.
Hilcaia had
come to the hot springs for a quick rest before reporting back
in. The brief
exchange of words gave her reassurance that it was better with
the time she
had to prepare then to just be sent out never to return if not
prepared. She
turned on her side and sighed lightly she knew he was right. In
the past
weeks, she had made remarkable discovers. Her mornings were spent
in the
practice yards honing her skills with both bow and bladed
weapons. Her
afternoons she spent in the stables learning all she could about
the nature
and care of the griffons. In that time she also made a new
friend. A unique
bond was forged with one of the younger male griffons. It was in
fact the
same golden feathered griffon that had come to her in the forest.
Rixbreeze,
Dalinoth had told her was his name. Although he was slightly
smaller then
the others, Rixbreeze showed promising agility, endurance, and
speed. He
came to greet her with unheralded eagerness each day that she
came to the
stables. It was this bond that lead to her commander assigning
Rixbreeze as
her mount. Each day that passed, her desire for a new assignment
for the
pair grew. "Ahmaria Ktorn!". At the sound of her name being
bellowed,
Ahmaria sat up hastily, smacking her head on the bunk above. She
stood with
a quick rub on her head. "Here,"  she called as she opened
the door and
stood at attention. A lean kagonesti warrior stood in the door
way. "New
orders recruit. Meet with commander in the stables promptly after
the
morning meal." "Yes Sir." "And recruit have your travel
gear ready as
well.".  Ahmaria remained at attention until the man closed the
door to her
room. She quickly went to her wooden trunk and withdrew a loaded
pack. She
smiled to herself as she once again checked through the gear she
had already
had prepared for weeks. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sun May 17 17:36:01 2009
Subject     To the skys

Ahmaria joined seven other recruits in the stbles. The sound of
heavy
boots on the ground brought them all quickly to an attentive
stance. A tall
human came and stood before them. He looked them over on at a
time befor
breaking the silence. "Some of you, I have already met."
Ahmaria quickly
glaced in his direction to study his face a moment. She realized
that she
had no idea who he was as he continued to speak. "For those of
you that I
have not, I am your new Flight Leader, Carsh." The recruits all
stood
quietly as he spoke to them of the assignment at hand. " This
mission will
both further your training with the windriders and hopefully give
an
insightful history lesson as well. We will be traveling to the
west central
area of the mountains to the Anviltop area. Our destination is
the village
of Avalune. There you will observe, train and hopefully bond with
the best
companion you will ever have while in this army. Since it has
been reported
to me that two of you already have had the chance to form a
decent bond with
a griffon already, you will have a slight advantage to a few of
the tasks
that will be put to you all." Flight leader Carsh finished his
speech by
ordering each recruit in to a pairing with some of the griffon
tenders
ranked above them. Ahmaria's partner was a friendly small framed
Silvanesti
woman. They greeted each other with smiles. "We will be taking
Rixbreeze
instead of my griffon. It is important for you to have the
opportunity to
further your bound with him." Ahmaria simply nodded and was
silently
grateful that Rix would be going along. They were dismissed to
prepare the
griffons for the journey. When all was ready, Carsh spoke a few
more words,
making sure that they all understood their orders. "All right
you will all
follow my lead. We shall be in the skys for a good part of the
day. You will
double up with your partner and share a mount for at least this
one time.
You all need to get use to being in flight.  Windriders take
flight!" With
one last command, they were lead in to the skys. Ahmaria leaned
in to the
wind content in the moment of exhileration as the small wing of
new recruits
took to the skys and headed to the south. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Fri May 22 18:31:22 2009
Subject     Avalune

With in the Anviltop peaks of the central Kharolis mountains
rested the
samll village of Avalune. The first day there for each of the
recruits was
in deed spent in a history lesson. Loyal clerics of Habbakuk
along with a
small group of village mystics, spent there days tending to the
griffons
living in the surrounding cliffs. The purpose of the village was
to help
protect and observe the griffons and honor the tradition of new
windriders
who came to find and bond with one. Durning the next few days in
the
mountain valley, Ahmaria began lessons in solo flight. With in
the first
week most recruits were able to master the basic flight patterns
used for
scouting formations. Each day that passed the group learned what
it truly
meant to be one of the windriders. As expectations from their
wing leader
grew, the group began to learn the basics of mounted combat in
flight. Days
passed and their skills improved. The lessons went on for almost
a months
time and was not long before each of them could keep their
balance and still
almost perfectly aim a bow. The last night of their training
brought them
together for a final meal in the village. Orders were given that
they would
fly out in the morning to return to the north and return home.
Congratulations were given accompanied with new orders would be
given from
there for them to join a full flight. As she headed to bed that
night, she
gave a thought to how much she enjoyed this new found lifestyle.
Ahmaria
prayed with thanks to her goddess that she had finally found a
place where
she felt she truly belonged. She enjoyed each day for it's
challenges and
was glad at what she could learn from each. She sent one more
silent thought
of thanks before drifting to sleep . 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat May 30 03:46:55 2009
Subject     Return

Ahmaria walked from the stables after spending the time to see
that
Rixbreeze was comfortably resting after the long days flight
home. She
wandered amongst the others in her flight group and got to know
each one a
little more during the night. They all enjoyed a welcome meal and
were able
to socialize. They all questioned what the next day would bring
and with
what orders. Mostly they all spoke of being glad to be home
although each
one had enjoyed some part of the time spent in Avalune. Ahmaria
no longer
felt restless and was glad for the work they had accomplished.
She knew
there would be much more training but she no longer felt the haze
of the
unknown lingering around her. She slept well most night now.
Thoughts of her
family no longer nagged her thoughts. She felt no fear or anxiety
over who
she was. She said her normal prayer of thanks and asked for
continued
blessing in her skills. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 13 16:15:02 2009
Subject     Negotiating Valek's Release. Part 1

Wildruners and Winriders had been set in position amoung the
trees and
skies while Ahmaria and her gryphon waited. Messengers had been
sent to the
Conclave regarding the capture of Valek. The place designated for
the for
the meeting was the lakeshore near Solace. 

Meanwhile, Jendaron sat inside the tower of High Sorcery, the
retired high
Archmage Jendaron, relaxing in the Library, is approached by a
Conclavian
messenger who delivers a note to the Archmage Slowly, Jendaron
removes the
hood that perpetually covers his face looks coldly at the message
in his
hands. 

 "'That damned fool"

The note reads Valek of the Black Robes has been captured by the
Wildrunner
Ahmaria, and is currently imprisoned. Please send a
representative to
discuss terms of his release.' 

Jendaron sighs. " Does it ever end? These pitiful fools can't
even handle
their own business anymore.  

The final part of the note reads A meeting at Crystalmir Lake is
arranged
for this eve.' Jendaron slowly recovers his face with his hood
and stands
angrily. 

 "So to Solace, of all places."  Jendaron slowly heads
towards the exit of
the Tower of High Sorcery, his path leading to Crystalmir Lake.
Speaking a
few words, the Archmage makes himself invisible to others and
silently
travels towards the lake. 

Back near Solace, Ahmaria walks along the eastern shore of the
lake looking
to the skys and the surrounding area. She waves a signle to the
waiting
members of Wildrunners and Windriders still waiting for
negotiations to to
begin. Ahmaria keeps her gaze scanning the vallen trees and
beyond.
Satisfied she nods and waits patiently. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 13 16:22:51 2009
Subject     Negotiating Valek's Release. Part 2

 "It should not be long now, Rix"  Ahmaria places a calming
hand lightly
on the back of her griffon, Rixbreeze. Jendaron spots the slender
elven
figure and the figure of a gryphon, on the east shore of the
lake, as he
approaches. He silently approaches the two, his hood covering his
face and
invisible to the eyes of others.

A sudden chill touching her skin, Ahmaria knows someone must be
near their
area she turns drawing her swords. She speaks in her own tongue,
Qualinesti,
 "Show yourself and this will remain peaceful gathering." 

In Common he answers her,  "I suggest you sheathe that swords,
or you and
the runners hidden in the trees will find themselves overrun with
the demons
and spirits of the abyss."  He pauses before adding.  "I have
come, as
requested, to discuss the terms of the pitiful fool's release, if
I wished
to attack you, you would already be dead."  

 "Very well,"  Ahmaria places her swords back at her sides
and motions
toward the trees. Jendaron, speaking a word, the black robe
archmage reveals
himself to the elf. His hood still covering his face, he stands
before her.


 "Before we begin the discussions, I wish to know one thing. 

 "I suppose it depends on what you wish to know."

 "What did this fool do to get himself caught up on the losing
side of a
battle with an elven female?" 

Ahmaria trys to hide a slight smile as she answers slowly.  "I
know a few
thing of the arcane world. If I had to explain it he traveled to
me by way
of a gate, unprepared for my reaction."  

 "Was it a conflict he initiated?"  

 "Aye, it was.  Shaking his head slightly,  "Perhaps his
place is not with
those of the Wizards of High Sorcery after all, but that is
beside the point
at this moment. What is it you and your fellow runners wish for
to ensure
his safe release and return to our... care lets call it."  
 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 13 16:30:47 2009
Subject     Negotiating Valek's Release. Part 3

 "I would like information to help further an investigation we
have
undertaken" 

 "An investigation?"

 "It also has some what a personal matter in what I ask."

 "Allow me to speak in your own tongue so that there is nothing
lost in
translation, elf."  Jendaron begins to speak Qualinesti 
"What is the
meaning of this investigation, and what does it entail?"  

She nods to him slightly surprised  "It is a murder
investigation and it
entails my own family"  She stands for a moment thinking of the
best way to
choose her words before proceeding. 

 "An investigation involving your own family and a murder?" 

 "'My father was killed while hunting and I too have been
pursued since that
day. Those guilty of the crime are my mother and two sisters." 


 "Do you know a location where this occurred?'

 "The forests surrounding Caergoth. '

 "And you think this has something to do with Conclave?' 

"After seeing the black robes of your man I knew I must ask at
least for
this information if it could be given."  

 "'When did this happen?"

 "'It has been almost a half year since my father's death.  

"I do not know directly, of any such occurrence involving the
mages of my
order, but the matter can be looked into deeper if that would
lead to
Valek's safe return. If it happened within my order, I can find
out about
it." 


Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 13 16:37:55 2009
Subject     Negotiating Valek's Release. Part 4

 "I will not pretend to know the way that your orders work, but
my
sisters and mother are mages. "

 "'Their names?"

 "K'torn is our surname, as for each of their given names I had
vowed not to
speak of them."

 "'Then I will investigate of the murder of the K'torn man and
these women.
If I indeed find out a connection with the conclave, I will not
need the
given names. Is there another thing you wished to ask?"

 "On behalf of the Wildrunners and myself, we will release the
man in to
your care. We ask that he not pursue any of our ranks without
just cause."

 "Not an unreasonable request, and as you have also requested,
I will
investigate what we spoke of and contact you how I see fit if
anything is
found out.' 

Jendaron slowly walks closer to the elf until he stands directly
be fore the
elf. He slowly moves back his hood off his face, revealing ice
blue eyes,
silver hair and a wicked scar down the middle of his face.
Ahmaria stands
her ground feeling herself begin quake under his gaze His gaze
intensifies
and seems to penetrate right through her. 

Jendaron stares into the elf's eyes and speaks.  "Next time,
the fool won't
be so easy to capture, that I assure you. This conflict ends
here, on both
ends."  He pulls his hand up to her face in a mocking gesture
and runs a
hidden dagger point along her face. His not so gentle brush of
her cheek
leaving a line of hot blood in its trail. She remains still while
he
continues to speak. Her eyes flash with anger ad the blood drips
from her
face. 

Stepping back from her, "I do not wish to take the fool back
myself.
'Release him in the forest, if he's worth a damn he can find his
own way
back." , he says still watching her closely. 

Ahmaria motions toward the sky, signaling for the release of
Valek the
careless mage  "He will be released with in the hour"  Before
the foolish
mage can see him there, Jendaron speaks a word and disappears as
quickly as
he arrived. 

Back at the Conclave, Jendaron returns to his quarters in the
black robe
tower, snarling angrily. He throws a crystal vase against the
wall
shattering it in a million pieces.

 Damn fool! How could he let this happen. They are on to us
now.'  

While in Solace, Ahmaria mounts Rixbreeze and take to the skies.
She touches
the side of her face and lets out a roar of anger. She turns to
the north
with the other windriders and returns home, trying to lose the
picture in
her mind of the cold calculating face of the black robed mage
known as
Jendaron. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 20 23:00:49 2009
Subject     A new young recruit.

Standing in the narrow stone passageway, Ahmaria looked out over
the
cliffs with Rixbreeze. The sunset was spectacular. She was
grateful for the
few days she had been granted for personal time. She sometimes
missed the
seclusion of nature that she had rare time to enjoy. With a smile
she turned
to the gryphon next to her and smiled. 

As she turned a small shy figure caught her eye. The female grey
elf was
just slightly shorter then Ahmaria. Her raw hide leathers were
well made and
seemed fit by any hunters standards. Ahmaria wondered if she too
had looked
anything like her as a new recruit. 

She walked toward the younger girl and gave her a kind smile. 
"You are new
to the runners, How are you liking it here?" 

The girl looked around with wonder in her eyes, seemingly
startled by the
question.  "I um, I guess I like it. so far.  Ahmaria could
not help but
smile at her shy demeanor. 

 "There is no need for such shyness. We are all like family
here. 

 ""Just my family, my sister, isn't here,"  She spoke
quietly. The girl
looked around her at all of the quiet activity of the passage
around them. 

 "Your sister is she too a recruit of the Wildrunner?" 

The younger elf nodded absently,  "Yes, but, she had to go away
for now and
be an apprentice in magic somewhere...." Her voice trailed of
ending with a
small sigh. Ahmaria glanced around the hall and nodded down to
her. She
motioned toward the fountain and they sat. 

 "My sisters too are mages, although I would not call us close.
I am sure it
wont be too long before she is tested and can return."  

The young elf sat fidgeting with her hair. Ahmaria watched her
with concern.
The poor girl was obviously preoccupied..  " "It has already
been too long,
"  she pouted. 

 TO BE CONTINUED......


Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 20 23:05:30 2009
Subject     Talk of gryphons and such

Ahmaria thought to herself for a moment while she watched her. 
"Well
perhaps there is something we can do to help pass the time she is
away? Have
you been given an assigned regiment yet?  

Returning a questioning gaze she answered,  "Um, no, I don't
think so."  She
shook her head lightly. 

Rixbreeze nudged Ahmaria gently, reminding her it was time that
his need for
food interested him more then the conversation.  "Perhaps you
would like to
join me in seeing that Rixbreeze here is fed?' 

The younger elf tilted her head and became seemingly more
accepting of
conversation. She looked at the gryphon curiously.  "That is a
funny
looking....bird? Is that a Rixbreeze?" Her question caused
Ahmarias smile to
widen. 

Holding herself from laughing she simply said,  "No, Rixbreeze
is his name.
He is a gryphon. A friend to all of the Windriders."  As she
spoke the
gryphon lifted his head proudly at the mention of his name. 

 ""That's a gryphon? Sis told me stories about them, but, so
they are real?
Can they really talk and all?" Studying the Gryphon closer, the
girl quickly
lost all trace of shyness. 

 "They are stubborn and proud animals, fierce flyers, but I
have never heard
one speak." 

Ahmaria began to shake her head to say no when the gryphons beak
opened and
a deep voice came from it.  "I suppose I could talk if I
wanted."  Both
elves stood amazed. 

Her brow raised,  "I guess they do speak."  Ahmaria gave a
soft laugh.

The younger girl leaned closer to Rixbreeze, examining him. Her
nose almost
touching his beak,  ""Wow, it can speak better than I can,
almost as good as
big sis." 

The gryphon made a noise that seemed almost like a chuckle.  "
I just never
felt the need to speak we bond with our riders with other means
of
communication.  He was rewarded with a gaze of awe and
memorized glee from
the younger elf and a look of pride from his rider. 
 
 TO BE CONTINUED.....

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 20 23:10:54 2009
Subject     Talk of Mages and Such

 " We just recently returned from the village where Rixbreeze
was raised
with the other gryphons, bonding with him has brought new
surprises
everyday."  Ahmaria watched the girl regain her composure.
Suddenly her face
scrunched up with a look of deep thought. 

Blurting out excitedly,  "Can they fly as far as that Tower
where big sis
is?" 

Ahmaria answered her carefully.  "It is possible we could go to
Wayreth, but
we will not find the tower unless the mages want us to. We have
ways to get
messages to them though. We normally ask for meetings in Solace
with any
from the Conclave."  She sat studying the girls face carefully
. She began
to worry about her and tried to think of something that could
ease the
concern the girl felt for her missing sister.  " You miss her
that much?". 


The girl muttered under her breath while glaring at the mention
of the
tower. Ahmaria smiled hearing something about "stodgy, smelly old
wizards
and their odd ways." The girl then answered her.  "Yes, miss
her, we have
never been apart, what will she do if I am not there to bring the
game for
her to cook, or. ..or.."  She once again trailed off with a
sad, lost look
on her face. Ahmaria let her remain silent in her thoughts, but
stood and
placed a calming hand on her shoulder. 

After a moment she spoke softly.  "She is well taken care of, I
am sure." 
Ahmaria sat wondering more on how to comfort the young elf. It
suddenly
accrued to her that she may have the perfect solution.  "In the
meantime
while you wait for her to return, and for your proper assignments
perhaps
you and I could work together to have a place ready for the both
of you to
share here.  

The girl nodded and proudly and quietly stated,  "" I kept the
goblins away
from our house, she never knew that, she was always keeping me
safe, and, I
tried to keep her safe, now...now I can't be there for her".  

 "'You know that the magicks she can learn there will be able
to keep you
both safe as well don't you?"  

 "We were safe where we were, I don't know why she wanted to
leave there. We
didn't trouble anyone there. Now, we...I am just extra baggage
for her." 

Ahmaria shook her head.  "I am sure that is not true" .
Remembering what she
felt she needed to say she continued speaking.  " I have a few
days off duty
given to me by my flight commander, would you like to spend a few
days
hunting with me and Rix " . She continued to try to comfort the
young elf.,
who trying to hid her interest remained silent. She grudgingly
nodded back
at her. 
 TO BE CONTINUED......

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 20 23:19:28 2009
Subject     Talk Of hunting and such

  "There is something you should understand that I learned
about mages a
long time ago. If your sister would not have gone to the towers
to find a
master, she would have been in more danger. They tend to hunt
those who
practice magic without their guidance. Maybe it is again your
sister trying
to protect you? "

The girl pouted a bit.  "We work better together, she said,
but, she still
left. Now I just wait. What am I supposed to do until she gates
back?"

 " It will all turn out to be a good thing, youll see. Now,
what do you like
to hunt most?"  

The young girl snarled and excitement came back to her voice. 
""Goblins,
and ogres. I like to hunt those nasty, forest trashing animals
the most,
Careless brutes!"  Her eyes took on a feral gleam as she spoke.


Rixbreeze raised his head once again interested in the
conversation.  "What
ever it is that tastes best?"  He smacked his beak at the
thought of his own
vision of the perfect prey. 

The girl looking slightly startled said,  ""Oh, to eat, ummm,
boar, I
guess!"

The gryphon nodded in his own way and began to walk away from
them.  "Boar
sounds good, excuse me ladies it is time for a snack." He leapt
in the air
leaving the two elves to finish planning. 

 "Let us prepare and head for the woods around crystalmire,
perhaps we can
get lucky enough for a decent day or two of hunting. We can fly
out at dawn
if that sounds alright with you." 

The younger elf tried hard to contain her excitement but could
not. She
suddenly babbled forth with conversation .  " I suppose that
would be a good
way to learn my surroundings. Sis always said know where you are
and what ou
have, but, she may have Meany something else, she was always
talking in
riddles."  

Ahmaria smiled patiently.  "I suppose I should give you my
name, I am
Ahmaria K'torn." 

 "Ahmaria? Ah, I am Shizuru Viola'vata, Meriele's sister. Very
nice meeting
you, ma'am." With that she bowed to Ahmaria. 

 "All right Shizuru it is nice meeting you as well. I must go
and prepare
for the morning but, I leave you with a thought passed to me from
another
fellow Wildrunner. From now on there is nothing you must do
alone."  

Shizuru returned a puzzled look.  "Must do.....? "

 In other words in any thing that life gives you. You don't
have to do it
alone the Wildrunners are there to help as well. A Wildrunner
never fights
alone"  

Soon the young Shizuru was heading off to make preparations and
leaving
Ahmaria to her own thoughts. Ahmaria sighed hoping that she might
help the
confidence of the young elf grow. Perhaps she would stop
introducing herself
as Meriele's sister and be able to see her own strengths as well
as she was
able to talk of the pairs shared abilities. She also pondered on
the wisdom
she had gained in such a short amount of time here. 
 THE END FOR NOW.

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jun 27 07:17:11 2009
Subject     Dreams and memories.

She woke to the sound of laughter. A womans laugh, soft and light
mixed
with a mans, hearty and unrestrained. The laughter sounded so
very happy.
She smiled, still lying in bed, to the flawless melody it
created. 

The man and woman both looked at her. The light-hearted amusement
between
then sparkled in each of their eyes. She could not contain
herself from
lending her own small giggle to the mornings glee. When the
moment passed
each of their faces still wore a gracious expression. 

She crawled out of her small bed, slowly at first. As her petite
feet
touched the cold hard wood floor, she hurried to the man and
woman. Her arms
wrapped warmly around the broad neck of her father. She leaned
closer to
him, taking in the rich smell of blended pine and sweat. His dark
hair fell
in to her face and tickled her nose. He held her there a moment
longer. 

She then turned to embrace her mother. Her scent was like a rich
spiced
perfume. Her golden hair flowed around her as she cradled her
daughter close
to her chest. Her mothers crystal blue eyes shined down at her. 

 "We have something to tell you, Ahmaria, pet."  Her mothers
voice was
cheerful and pleasant. Her smile widened as she spoke.  "You
are going to be
to be a sister."  

====================================================== 

Ahmaria hummed merrily to herself as she ran her fingers through
her hair.
She worked her hands through the chestnut colored locks. After a
few moments
a tidy braid fell down her back.

She turned on her stool to watch her younger sisters. They too
were in the
process of combing their hair. Neither of them smiled her way,
nor would
they speak to her. The sharp features of the adolescent Ktorn
girls furrowed
in disgust and they continued to ignore her. Her smile faded. 

She left the room and slowly descended the stair case. She ran
her hands
along the smooth oak finish of the handrail. She had always
marveled the
hand crafted detail throughout the small home she had lived in
and matured
in. She quickly stopped at the bottom step. 

She heard voices arguing. The same voices that had once echoed
through out
with laughter, now scorned each other. Her mothers voice now
sounded out
caterwauls of abrasive comments. Although her fathers voice was
firm, it
hinted tones of heartbreak and hopelessness. 

Ahmaria snuck from that bottom step soundlessly and left the
house. When the
evening came she returned. The small house was still and shadowy.
She saw
her father motionless in the doorway. His eyes were dark and
troubled. She
watched him for some time. When he finally noticed her, he forced
a smile. 

 "Just you and I, Ahmaria, petjust you and I." 

======================================================

Ahmaria stirred from her dream. Each memory seemed as clear as if
it had
been just yesterday. She struggled not to cry. Thoughts of how
her mother
and sisters had left. Each of them had a malicious thirst for
power. That
desire ultimately had lead to her fathers murder. 

She sat up all the way. She was glad to have the day to hunt.
Glad to have
the day to let her past be forgotten for the day.

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jul 25 02:54:27 2009
Subject     briefing part one

Standing in front of a tall rectangular portion of polished
steel,
Ahmaria stood and studied her reflection Her long hair was
braided and
pulled in to a tight bun atop her head. A single griffon feather
was pinned
neatly in to her wound tresses. She reached to the small table
near by. From
there she took a thin royal blue cloth braided in to a cord. She
placed the
lanyard over her neck. Once it was positioned, she stood back to
inspect her
attire.  "All in proper order"  She told her self and nodded
to herself in
the mirror. 

It had been her morning ritual for weeks now. She dressed
promptly and
headed straight to the stables. Rixbreeze would be waiting there
for her.
Together they would see to the morning training exercises. 

The small flight she had been given responsibility over thus far
had shown
extreme promise. Ahmaria found that she quite liked her risen
rank and the
potential for further opportunities with in the Windriders. With
those
thoughts she headed toward her waiting griffon. 

This day however she was stopped on her way out. As she made her
way across
the parade field, she was met by her own Pride Lord. She
respectfully
saluted her superior officer and was greeted in return with a
warm smile. 

 "Good morning Flight Leader, Ktorn.

 "Good morning Sir". She lowered her hand and returned his
smile." 

 "The Wing Commander and I just had a discussion over our
morning meal about
you and your flight."  She looked over the tall elven man and
saw what
looked to me a proud glint in his eye. He continued on.  "It
has been a
while now and you have already shown enough promise to gain the
attention of
the Commanders."  Ahmaria lifted her brow with a questioning
look.  "You are
to report in twenty minutes for a briefing. New orders and such."
 

Ahmaria smiled again at him. Carsh too had done well climbing to
the rank of
Pride Lord. He had always been a fair leader in training new
recruits and
had become a close friend as well. 

It was then that she noticed he seemed distracted. "Sir?" He
waved off her
concern reminding her to bee in the observation room for the
briefing. She
nodded and saluted once more as she left him deep in his own
thoughts. 

Ahmaria walked out on to the common long enough to give orders
for those
under her command. That done she took one more moment for
Rixbreeze. She
nodded to him. 

 "Briefings and meetings today Rix."  She said no more but
about laughed
watching him. He seemed very content to lounge in the shade while
watching
the others work. She patted him on the neck and headed for the
observation
room. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Jul 25 03:26:23 2009
Subject     briefing part two

The observation room was surprisingly crowded. Ahmaria spotted
Carsh
across the room and walked to his side. His face still showed
signs of
concern but he smiled at her. 

 "Is all well, sir.?" She whispered to him as he leaned in
toward her. 

He whispered back to her.  "We will see after this meeting just
how well
things really are." 

She looked up at him and began to say something else when the
Wing Commander
enters with one of the Wildrunner majors. A hush fell over the
room and
everyone saluted the two new men. They gave the cue and everyone
took a
seat. 

The commander brought forth a large rolled parchment and rolled
it out on
the table before them. Lying before them all now was a map of the
area.
Several read chalked marks caught her eye. In particular, she
took note of
one near the southern Kharolis Peaks and another bordering along
the
wildwood of the Qaulinesti region. The major spoke first. "As
you can see,
we have marked red areas on the map. They are all close to areas
along our
southern borders. Each of these markings are confirmed reports
from out
scouts of goblin war bands moving further in to our lands." 

He stopped talking as the news sank in to the room. There was an
eminent
danger and Ahmaria was sure she knew at least part of the new
orders to
come. 

 "Our new orders are thus,"  The major continued.  "Each
flight will pair
with groups of my Wildrunners and meet here."  He pointed to a
central among
the red marks.  "The Wildrunners will be part of the next
briefing so you
are all getting the same information for the most part. Several
select units
will go out from there and we will remove these unwanted
creatures from our
lands." 

A shout rang out from across the room to slay them all. The wing
commander
spoke out for the first time in the whole meeting. 

 "No, we are not going to start a war. If they run from us we
are to let
them leave peacefully. The purpose of this mission is to remove
them with as
little bloodshed as possible. Granted they are vile beings but we
would like
to keep this as clean as possible." 

 "Unnecessary blood shed will not be tolerated and will be
punished." 
Ahmaria understood the need for caution but knew the hatred most
felt for
the goblinoid race. She knew this would be a challenging mission.
The
briefing lasted a good part of an hour and then they were left to
prepare. 

Ahmaria spotted the young Shizuru entering the observation room
for the next
briefing. She found herself unable to hide a smile thinking of
the young
corporal being told hunting goblins may be unnecessary blood
shed. This
would defiantly be a learning experience for all those involved. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Fri Aug 14 03:54:40 2009
Subject     Concern for Unnecessary Bloodshed 

Ahmaria stood with the eight other windriders under her command.
She saw
her own horror reflected in each of their faces. She found it
hard to fight
back tears through the smoke and anger at what she saw before
her. They had
sent the gryphons to the skies to signal for the other windriders
and
wildrunners in the area, leaving them on the ground surrounded by
horrific
scene. 

The had been scouting the area for half a month looking for signs
of raiding
parties with in the borders of Qualinost. The evidence that they
had been
there was undeniable. The armies had been too late. The bandits
had already
fled, leaving a path of destruction behind them. The mission had
changed
drastically. 

Ahmaria pointed to two of the men in her wing, "You two come with
me and
look for survivors the rest of you find stable shelter for any
wounded. Call
for me as soon as the others begin to arrive." She looked up and
watched
Rixbreeze a moment as he circled with the other gryphons above.
She sighed
heavily as they went to work. 

She pushed thoughts of hatred and revenge aside and thought only
at the task
at hand. The village still burned in parts but as the afternoon
wore on and
other wildrunners arrived, the flames stopped. An old warehouse
surviving
the flames, soon became a small hospital and headquarters for the
army to
begin clean up. By nightfall the building was full of wounded.
Other
survivors that had fled in the attack soon came out of hiding and
also
worked in the effort to salvage the small village. 

Tired and worn, Ahmaria sat with her own commanding officers and
gave her
own report. "The death count is almost 3 to 1 of those found
alive. Half of
the survivors are badly injured and reports from the villagers
able to speak
have confirmed at least 25 people are still missing." 

She looked at Carsh and recognized the same grim look that all of
them
carried. He motioned for her to be dismissed . "Get some rest
Ktorn". 

As she tried to sleep that night she could not help but think
that they had
come too late. There had been concern for unnecessary bloodshed
and this is
what it had come to. Goblin blood spared but at the cost of lives
with in
her own country. She finally fell feeling angry and confused. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Mon Aug 17 21:02:15 2009
Subject     More goblins

A graceful young gryphon circled through the skies. The two elven
figures
on his back seemed in high spirits as they made a routine
perimeter patrol.
As Ahmaria pointed off toward the horizon, Rixbreeze let out a
shriek. A
dark line of smoke rose steadily upward from the forest floor. 

The gryphon lowered his flight nearer to the treetops and the
three grew
silent. Passing over a small clearing their watchful gaze fell
upon a small
goblin encampment. Hilcaia was the first to draw his bow. Ahmaria
soon did
the same. It became apparent then that with two riders, taking
aim would be
near impossible. 

Ahmaria realized they had not been seen by any in the camp. They
circled
staying out of sight. Again she pointed to another area of the
wood. Hilcaia
spotted it as well and nodded as they descended. Rix settled down
to the
ground and immediately took flight. "Hell signal for the others
to join
us.." 

Quickly the two began to move silently back toward the
encampment. When they
again could see the fire, they climbed upward in to the trees.
Hilcaia
signaled silently to her and disappeared in to the shadows of the
branches.
She remained unseen as she watched the camp below. 

Several goblins sat half sleeping around the camp fire and she
could see
tracks below from others. From here she could not se enough to
get an
accurate count. Ahmaria kept her watch moving from the camp to
the skies.
The rest of her flight would not take long to get here. 

Hilcaia soon came back and signaled again wordlessly to her. She
understood
from his hand signals there were close to 30 goblins below. She
signaled
back that they would wait for the others. He gave a disappointed
look in her
direction but followed the order. 

She smiled at him feeling a bit guilty. He was suppose to be
healing. So
much for bringing him along for a peaceful patrol. She scolded
herself
inwardly. She should have known better. Both sat waiting, bows
still drawn.
It would not be long to wait. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Tue Aug 18 17:35:24 2009
Subject     Preparations for a caravan.

Ahmaria stood before Carsh after retelling all that had happened
in the
goblin encampment. He had been pacing back and forth in front of
her for
almost an hour questioning her actions. He stopped abruptly in
front of
her.

"Before I pass on your report, Ktorn is there anything else you
have to
say?"  

" Only that those under my command are well trained and fought
well. I feel
I have done right in my actions. Had we let that group of goblins
live they
would have continued tearing our border villages apart." 

He nodded to her and dismissed her. As he turned back across the
yard and
mounted, she watched him until the gryphon and rider had flown to
the
horizon. She gave a quick sigh and turned back to her work. 

Again new orders had come down the lines and the clean up was to
be moved
along. The villagers were now self sufficient enough and a local
guard was
to begin training. She looked over the list of supplies coming
later by
caravan. 

Most of the Wildrunners would be moving on to another village in
need of
help in the aftermath of goblin raiders. Ahmarias small wing
would stay and
see to the supplies and training. Motioning to one of her men,
Ahmaria
ordered that they all gather in the village square with in the
hour. Before
the Wildrunner platoons left her Windriders would go and escort
the caravan
the last leg of the journey. She refused to take the chance that
any raiders
would have a chance at those supplies. 

She looked across the yard and noticed Hilcaia watching her. She
smiled
toward him and waved while wondering if his platoon was one
remaining in the
area or if it would be another month before she saw him again.
She laughed
out loud thinking that the thought had even occurred to her. She
waved again
toward him and returned again to her work. Now to find suitable
candidates
to captain the small village militia before Carsh returned. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Sat Sep 12 22:21:33 2009
Subject     Recruits and motivation.....

Looking over the roster of new recruits, Ahmaria had been jotting
down
notes to the side on each name. After yesterdays antics, she
decided the
best means for training would be to group them together by
strengths and
talents. Each new recruit would first be paired with a higher
ranking
Runner. After the right match was made, the pair would be
assigned to scout
for similar talent with in the village. . She would then have
each group
move through each pair to learn a range of all the skills.
Hopefully it
would give a base for a solid defense with in the village

Carsh and the other Wildrunners and Windriders had moved on. It
was the
first morning Ahmaria had full command of a mission. It had been
just short
of a disaster in her mind. After skipping the report session,
Ahmaria was
grateful to be in her office alone. Role call was over. She
looked down at
the roster and sighed. Corporal Shizuru Viola'vata had thankfully
shown up
for the role. Her whereabouts during the caravan travels, were
still
unknown.

If it had not been for her instantly taking to task, and
partnering with the
young Kagonesti recruit known as Tesnos, Ahmaria would have
dragged her in
here to question her. She made a note to ask for her presence
after the
morning meal. The girl had surprisingly gained ranks through her
skill but
free spirited nature was at some times taxing on the nerves. 

Another Wildrunner face came to her mind. A bit more rugged and
savage,
Hilcaia, had baffled her that morning. His attitude and demeanor
had gone
from understanding and pleasant while off duty to insubordinate
and almost
cold while they were on duty. His new companion was never far
from them
circling the village, but smart enough to stay away when the
gryphons were
out hunting. She did not know if the hawk was the cause of his
distraction,
but she would talk with him that evening. 

Her quill landed at the name Tesnos on the roster. The younger
elf seemed
decent enough as far as recruits went. He had been respectful
through out
the morning. Her only concern with him was he seemed afraid of
her for some
reason. He reminded her of her first day s as a runner. She
smirked at the
thought. Perhaps he too would come to think of thee Runners like
she had.
Even armies could be a family. 

Looking through more papers on her desk, Ahmaria atlast came to
an
invitation to all of the Wildrunners in the village. The people
had planned
a celebration in honor of all the hard work they had helped with.
An idea
formed in her head and Ahmaria began to write. First notices to
her Runners,
and then A letter to a friend. Maybe a celebration and a break
from hard
work would help keep the camp motivated to keep working hard. 

Author:    Ahmaria        
Date:      Thu Sep 24 13:40:50 2009
Subject     From a Captain's Point of View

Captain Nithier, a leader of the local militia, was as patient as
men can
come. He had been through a lot in the past months as a result of
brutal
raids from invading bands of goblins. The marauders had made it
so that he
personally had survived, fire, flood and being left for dead
after a savage
attack on the village. Even with his patient nature, he knew
something had
to give. 

It was the Captain himself that had first began to form the
militia. They
needed an organized way to defend themselves. After months of
what seemed
like constant raids, most of the village had evacuated. Not
willing to admit
defeat, he was still forced to admit his efforts would not be
enough. 

He did the next best thing he could and swallowed his pride. He
wrote to
authorities in the city of Quailnost asking for aid to be sent.
He answer
came surprisingly soon after in the form of small army. The
Wildrunners had
answered his call for help. As they moved in from the forest and
the sky,
his first impression was that of unease. A lot of the men and
women appeared
to be no more then new recruits. A few of them even came to be
more savage
looking then some of the goblins he had encountered. The uneasy
feeling grew
when a young wing commander was left in charge. 

He bit his tongue. He would give them a chance to help them. He
did not see
any other options. Besides, they had brought tools and supplies.
However
they looked, the Wildrunners of Quailnesti had come prepared to
work. 

To his surprise, Ahmaria Ktorn had proven to be a fair and
organized leader.
She focused on the strengths of his men individually at first,
pairing them
with her own for training. Collectively the Runners and the
militia worked
together to strengthen weaknesses. Soon they were easily working
together
and making their talents work to better the village defenses. 

The village had changed much since the Wildrunner army had
arrived. The
buildings had all been repaired, guard posts had been erected
around the
village and hidden in the trees around them, and even new wells
had been
dug. Villagers, whom had evacuated, were now returning to clean
and damage
free homes. He had to admit he had been wrong to fear the worst
from the
Runners. 

Now with all the work and training going so well, he knew the
time for them
to depart would be soon. He knew their own border patrols would
still always
roam the area of the surrounding forests. But now, the village
would be his
to protect with his own men. He had been told in a weeks time he
would take
command fully, leaving only his instincts and his men to defend
their
homes.

He walked across the village common toward Ahmarias small
makeshift office.
As he walked, he looked around and grinned at what he saw.
Everything the
Wildrunners had helped them accomplish made him feel confident
that they
would be able to handle the threat of further raids. A sense of
peace that
had been a long time coming settled over him. 

His smile grew as the young Windrider s wing commander greeted
him at the
door.  "Good Morning Captain." She offered him a seat and
they began to
review how the Wildrunners would begin to detach. 

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