From alt.pub.dragons-inn Mon Feb 14 13:32:11 1994
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From: Thorr-kan, the White Minotaur, and Horde Father-Confessor
Newsgroups: alt.pub.dragons-inn
Subject: [Roaming] Preparation
Date: 13 Feb 1994 23:42:51 GMT
Organization: Gustavus Adolphus College
Lines: 70
Distribution: world
Message-ID: <2jmdtrINN3hk@news.gac.edu>
Reply-To: mcutter@nic.gac.edu
NNTP-Posting-Host: flash.gac.edu

Dawn comes quickly to the Great Forest in August.  One moment there is utter  
blackness.  Then, from the east rises a hint of light.  The sun reaches her  
arms over the edge of the Mysty Mountains, and suddenly, the entire Forest  
consumed with light.  If one did not recognize the danger signs, it would  
almost seem like
nothing was wrong.

Deep inside the Great Forest, a certain half-elf sits, facing east. 
Thad welcomes the sun; it had been a fitful night.  He had been haunted
by dreams of darkness and death.   The time spent with the Lady had
sensitized Thaddius to this land.  Now, the half-elf can feel the blight
that is Thorn.

Dawn is a special time for Chan-Da'all.  With the waking of the world,
it becomes a daily celebration of Life.  It is a renewal, a time for
change.  Her presence especially strong and Her followers more receptive
than normal, Chan-Da'all takes this opportunity to grant them favor.

Thaddius Farsinger seeks Her favor fervently this morn.  He prays for
success in the battle to come.  He seeks harmony with nature to combat
the enemy.  He invokes life, hoping against hope for survival.  Thad
plans on making the best attempt he can, but seriously doubts he can
survive.  At most, the half-elf hopes to buy time for the Lady of the
Forest to strike back.

The sun brings warmth as time passes.  Another type of warmth suffuses
Thad.  His faith and mission have earned Chan-Da'all's blessing.  "Thank
you, Seeker," he whispers in awe.  "I will be worthy."

Thad struggles to his feet and stretches.  It is mid morning now, time
for food and reflection.  "I am going forth to my death, willingly.  Why? 
Ellen waits for me.  WIth her, I could achieve the happiness I have
always dreamed of.  But I never truly expected it.  Am I so fearful of
happiness?"

The Forest gives him no answers.  His subconsciousness can mull the problem at
length.  Thad sighs and returns to his preparations.  Inch by inch, he
goes over his armor and finds no flaws.  Next, Thad checks weaponry; his
quarterstaff is undamaged, but the sling shows signs of wear.  Frowning,
the half-elf replaces the pocket and reties the thongs.  Finally, Thad
arranges gear for accessibility: rope, bullets, spell components,
torches.  The final task is studying his spellbook.

In seeking knowledge, Thaddius had learned how to manipulate the forces
around him.  Here and there, Thad picked up spells that aided his
duties, defended him, or helped with performances.  Now he studies them
for survival.  These tricks of his may be the margin that allows him to
succeed.

While studying, the half-elf finishes his meal.  He is refilling his
waterskin when a thought strikes.  "I am here because it is my duty. 
There are people in need; I have the power to help.  Milady would
understand.  Indeed, I could not return without betraying who I am, what
she loves so much!"

Fortified and resolved, Thad turns back to his preparations.  He is
determined to succeed.  A chill settles over the half-elf as he
realizes that this fate does not bother him.  He is being true to
himself.

Thaddius Farsinger has finally found the answers he began this search for.

-Thaddius Farsinger
"Things always seem to come together when there is no hope left."

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Sometimes, those you love most are the ones you have to leave behind.
Matt Cutter, e-mail to mcutter@nic.gac.edu OR mcutter@vax2.gac.edu
Gustavus couldn't afford my opinions if they wanted them!
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