'BeZ' (Bethan Tremaine -deceased)

*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 10

Finally got some time to put quill to paper. After dinner and a peek around the library, I'm back in my new room about to get some kip. But first things first...

I had the good fortune to bump into a knight called Sir Vlen Valmorri as I headed towards the sewers to seek out those lycans, and later we were joined by Sir Roland Elvaros. Knights both - though the one is sorcerous paladin of Selune, complete with rabbit Sir Ku in tow, the other is a knight of Silverymoon and, furthermore a follower of Tyr no less! The purging of the wererats and burning of the lair took a few hours and, after Sir Elvaros had headed back to Sigil, I enquired of Sir Valmorri if he might have need or opening for a squire - me - a trial period was agreed on and he told me to gather my things and meet him in the bazaar.

Took me a while to freshen and sort my gear, settle with the Innkeep and I found Sir Valmorri waiting for me with arms folded. I'd hurried but still kept him waiting, not a great start but he didn't seem too mad. I followed him at stride to the Lady's Ward and nearly cricked my neck as he stopped and pointed at one great house upon one of the main streets to that ward - this was the House Valmorri, a veritable mansion of epic proportion. Bit gobsmacked I was to see such finery and I made sure to wipe my boots well so as not to leave dirty mark upon the rugs and marbled floor as he bade me enter.

He took me on tour of the main parts of the mansion, including the huge library and kitchens, telling that I could pop down to the kitchen should I feel need of late night snack - be sure that is something I would do frequently. We also passed through to the training and weapon hall/rooms then on to what I thought was going to be the bunkhouse but I ended up being shown to a neat room, plenty spacious and well appointed. It appears this was the same room that Sir Valmorri spent his time in while he acted as squire to his father. Am I honoured or what?! I'm to keep it neat and tidy at all times, ready for inspection at a moment's notice - I think I can manage that.

Sir Valmorri briefed me on the house hours for duties:

- Morning training 5 to 11
- 12.30 to 4 studies, including proper etiquette, manners, customs and other knightly/noble things
- Dinner at 5

He also told me there would be more formal occasions where I'd be expected to wear dress and heels. I'm prepared to don 'monkey suit' as he put it and learn this etiquette thing by this Marianne person for those times but be damned if I'll put on frock and heels. I'll hunt out suitable outfit on the morrow in a free period - a smart trouser and tunic should do it.

Gae has been good so far, staying quiet curled up in my pack. But then he hasn't caught sight of sir Ku nor caught scent of the house smells, different to those of the Inn. Tyr forbid he decides to go for a nosy, peek up the skirts of one of the priestesses and have them flapping and screaming. I'd be out on my ear in a shot.

Right, time to snooze. Training tomorrow starts at 5.
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 11

*the next entry is a hastily scribbled sentence*

I've been called to arms! And I've not even spent my first night yet and I'm off on crusade! I'm to get horse to ride! *the sentence was followed by many more exclamation marks and a smudged blob of ink*
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 12

Glorious! It was glorious journal, from beginning to end, from first sitting atop that beautiful white steed, the likes I've never seen or sat upon before, to the thrill of fighting for something just and good, to the celebrations with the soldiers and the knights Valmorri afterwards.

To become part of this Order fills my heart with joy. No matter these knights are not fighting in the name of Tyr, they accepted me to their house and service. For that I am grateful, for that I will do my utmost.

I stood out in my copper red against the sea of white and silver, but felt as one when the enemy had been defeated and I raised my longsword in unison to the cheers inspired by Lord Valmorri, Sir Vlen's father. I made my own secret cheer alongside.

The long journey to return, another portal and we were to Sigil again. A little duller in the head but I'd not overindulged, though the ale that flowed that night after the battle was a good one, I have strong constitution and head for the stuff. Heck, I've played enough drinking games with the lads back home to build up my tolerance.

I met with Sir Valmorri, the younger, sir Vlen that is, in the market the next day for a lesson upon the virtues of a knight. a long discussion marred by one interruption, a barmy tiefling girl and I noted Sir Vlen apply one of the lessons there and then.

After this lesson, I knelt and swore allegiance to the House Valmorri and in return was given ring to wear bearing their crest. I was left with task though, to write essay of my thoughts and interpretations of these virtues. I've some studying to do, and a few late nights I fear will be warranted, to manage this alongside the other training and duties. But I will do it with a smile and good heart. For this was what I wanted and if there are to be more such crusades, with such steeds, and in such worthy company, to get me to knighthood, I will do this gladly. I will make my family...such as it is...proud of me.

*just below the writing is a doodle of a figure upon a mighty horse, sword raised in air*
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 13

*a copy of Beth's essay was written to her journal, the original being forwarded to Sir Vlen Valmorri*

*****

Thoughts and Interpretations on the Virtues of Being a Knight
by Beth Tremaine, for the attention of Sir Vlen Valmorri

My first thought is to make good comparison of the virtues described in the lesson to those I have read within the book I found 'The code of a Paladin', look for similarity and overlap then to widen my personal list so that I may keep them all to mind and heart so as not to fail on any. For there must be good reason why such a book was written in the first place.

The second task is to then interpret and apply those virtues listed to practical aspect either performed or how I intend to carry them out from this day forward. I shall look to the past, look to my time in Sigil and consider how I will uphold those virtues during my squireship and as a daughter of the House Valmorri.

Loyalty: A knight must be loyal to his cause, his brotherhood, his order, his family and friends, his gods and above all else, he must be loyal to his heart.

Loyalty was not mentioned in the code book in such terms but falls within the boundaries of the code of 'fealty'. This code is inherent I believe when a knight joins a faction, guild or Order. Simply as an individual, loyalty to one's family is a given, can be expected provided the family has not betrayed that loyalty and trust and even then, loyalty can be refound with appropriate atonement and forgiveness, willingness on both sides.

Loyalty to one's Order or house, brothers and sisters in arms, is formed upon acceptance and trial upon joining the group and proven by action over time. As squire and nominated daughter to the House Valmorri, who have accepted me into their Order after small trial, without judgement or prejudice other than by assessment of my actions thus far, my loyalty can be taken as a given.

Loyalty to one's god, one's faith, one's heart governs the whole. It is for each knight or prospective knight to ensure that this virtue of loyalty is balanced between that of family, comrade and belief, to manage and do right in her fealty to all.

Duty: A knight has duties to uphold and must throw herself into accomplishing, to perform at her highest standard and complete them, be they duties given by god, lords and ladies or duties to the greater cause of Good.

This virtue appears to be covered by the tenets of Valor and Industry for a knight to carry out the duty to the best of her endeavours, to work hard until it is complete and not let up, to fulfill that duty unless the odds are so sorely stacked against her that retreat from said duty is necessary. But what is a 'duty'? That duty may be a task assigned, a promise or a responsibility. For what it was worth, I noted I have carried out my duties to each knight I've squired to the best of my ability no matter how shortlived that service. Tyr willing, I hope that my service and duty to the House Valmorri will be longer in duration. Such duties as I have performed and proven to date are a few: taking care of the knights' armour, weapons and steed, upholding a promise to get one drunk resident of the city safely back to his abode, assisting various of the city citizens with various tasks and troubles, be it helping to clear bats in the cellar, beasts in rooms, purging of lycan or simple errands. Most notably the recent call to arms, where I saw my first battle and fulfilled my duty upon trial period for the knights' Valmorri.

Respect: A knight treats all with respect, regardless of race, gender or creed. Respect is in everything that a knight does. Respect is in our very step. Without it, we cannot be knights, instead, we become uncivilized brutes with swords to swing around.

The tenet of courtesy governs this virtue, though perhaps extends beyond in manner and outlook, the essence is the same. And it is more than simply a laying down of cloak in front of a lady but ensuring that one conducts oneself with understanding and consideration to others, show self-control and good sense. I made good note of the occasion recently when during the lesson, Sir Vlen chose to ignore the barmy girl who persisted in following and accusing in random fashion, completely out of her head, rather than to verbally abuse or restrain. To have taken the time to talk around her madness would unlikely have accomplished much either. Silence, in this case was the most respectful method. The girl was not shamed or mistreated nor the situation worsened. An interesting lesson.

Selfless Service: A knight serves, the greater good, her gods and the people but that last thing that she ever serves is herself. To serve without thought to what glory, riches or fame it brings, to serve for the sake of serving, to serve because we love to serve.

And here the individual must push aside what pride, what desires, what goals she aspires to in favour of a greater cause, that of service to her brethren, her god and her peoples in order to become and be a good knight. Not an easy tenet or virtue this and not without certain hardship and inward struggle that service to others must come before self and be done with good grace willing heart. I do not believe this to mean that one must give all ones possessions away to those more needy for that would not be 'good service' where to be better equiped to carry out service, by strength of arm and shield, to accomplish the duties best suited to the individual. It 'is' selfless service to train and improve, then to demonstrate by practical means, by assisting and using the skills she was born with and has developed to serve others.

Honour & Integrity: A knight must conduct him or herself with honor at all times. Integrity is knowing what the right thing is and acting upon it, pointing out wrongs and having the heart to correct these wrongs, regardless of what anyone says or how you are looked upon for doing so.

I read the words within the Code book, believe I have honour in my heart, believe I know what is right and wrong and act accordingly, just and fair as Tyr judges me. I carried myself with pride and honour during the battle just past, I felt honour at being given a small room and acceptance within in a House of paladins and priestesses, that and the a chance to prove myself. I have my own set of principles and am sworn to the Valmorri's to Tyr and my family, a promise to keep and an obligation to uphold. While the temptations and chaos that is often in Sigil seek to test my integrity, it is difficult but not impossible to choose the right course of action. And as seen already, sometimes inaction is the best course of action, though failing to act might also be the wrong course.

Personal Courage: A knight must must have courage to overcome her fears, courage to overcome all obstacles, courage to admit to her faults and the courage to correct them.

I would think that the first step towards demonstrating personal courage as a knight is to first recognise those fears, faults and obstacles in order to overcome and correct them. I have no fear of facing mighty enemy in battle, perhaps only some reservation that I am perhaps too eager and not experienced enough to know when a tactical withdrawal is the better choice. I am stronger and hardier than most and this can be my undoing in that strength of mind and wisdom is a better requisite for a knight to have in order to uphold all the virtues. And here I read this virtue, link it with that of honesty and integrity and believe that there is something I need to inform the House about. From what I have learned and felt thus far I do not think it will impinge upon my remaining part of this 'family' given what I have learned already but an omission of the truth is still a lie is it not? So to uphold the virtues of courage, honest, integrity and loyalty, best I get this over and done with and not written here in this essay but in personal discussion with Sir Vlen.

Compassion
This virtue was described to me by means of examples: The compassion to pick up wounded and weary souls, the compassion to look after a child that falls and scrape his knee, the compassion to forgive, the compassion to love those poor unfortunate souls that are shunned into the deep recesses of civilization. One must have compassion to a point where one would come across a baby orc and lift the green skinned and tusked infant up from the jaws of a rabid wolf, to save that soul, to feed that mouth, to teach and to raise the child.

My thoughts upon this virtue are such that I admit to thinking this is the one virtue where where I may stumble not for the heart to show it but for having the skills of noticing where compassion is needed as well as the softer touch to apply it - I cannot say I am a gentle hand at those tasks that seem more befitting to lady or priest - that of giving help to every waif or stray, to feed and clothe. I can tend battle wound and am dab hand at healing but my failing is a certain awkwardness at noticing and applying myself with compassion. My tendancy is to want to suit up, ready sword, find the injustice and deal the blow swift and sure. It is perhaps simply my age and inexperience and in knowing this I try harder, but I merely say that it comes not naturally.

*****
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 14

Fourth time lucky.

Not quite what I had in mind but after three knights have left and my squireships ended I can't afford to be too choosy. I'm wondering if there is something wrong with me? Lost cause? And I try so hard.

Perhaps, and here's a thought, I might seek a double position. This Lord for the battle training and another for the etiquette? Sir Bryce, I don't think is quite the right sort to polish me up in the latter.

I'm renting room back at the Inn again now. Must put aside some time to darn the socks. I noticed a few more holes, never was too good with the needlecraft, but a soldier and knight either has to employ staff for such (cannot afford) or learn to look after her own. Wonder if I'll ever get to that position where I have squire?

On with the day. Boots need another clean.
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 15

*a few notes are jotted down in the journal, rather hurried*

- sir Bryce runs with dwarfs, is known to get drunk with them and goes by the name of 'Stretch' so I was informed. Not sure what to make of that. Will stick with things for now, might be my only chance. Will keep eyes out for a secondary solution even so.

- the girl Ilharess - suggested to me better to tell than to lie, better to take my 'punishment' and hope he deals fair. I had no intention of 'lying' but had hoped to avoid telling of my poor performance and near failure to protect those in my charge. Must do better.

- met a friendly girl in the market with colourful fingers, Kathe. I liked her instantly.

- I owe Ayame my life. A debt I shall repay.

*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 16

*the ink on the previous pages has faded slighty due to the time between entries*

I return to Sigil with fresh hope to fulfill a dream. A personal quest to the outlands after number four was not forthcoming, mostly due to my own absence and desire to complete this quest, and I still have not found 'that' sword but I did obtain good information on the culture of the Khaastas for the librarian.

To finish training I need to find a knight willing to take me on. But it is apparent to me my track record is not one of the best at initial glance. I considered this time to give up and to join the Harmonium for a time and help out where I could so I headed the next day after settling back to the market to talk to a guard.

Before doing that however I was invited to drink at the outside bar, discovering one fellow there that seemed to have need for squire. Of course I was interested to persue the potential and begun to quiz and converse with the gentleman but then one lady made request needing a champion to act and help her aid villagers under the city. I could not turn that down!

A friend I had made the day before, Tara, agreed to come with me and some cook goblin made offer to bring food for the hungry peoples there but it was decided to assess the situation first and spare arm to carry a food load of good size to make it worthy was not possible a that time. So it was with Sir Kain, Lady Catarianna and my new friend Tara I led the group to the undersigil village, making good path and taking brunt of the trap damage (not easy to avoid some of those), unfortunately getting a bit lost in the process but finally finding the right tunnel path.

I felt something, a tremor of power that was familiar as I rested hand to one the lady's shoulders as likewise Tara did to her other. (she has power like that of my mothers side of the family I think and I confess was nice to feel that familiarity). The water source was purged of its poison by the arcane spell she cleansed the pool. Temporary at best but, by Tyr, it felt good to have made start on something positive to help, to act so as the tenets dictate with compassion and selfless service.

Lady Catarianna wanted to speak to me after and I went willing to join her to the sauna - not a place I frequent but she wished it and her words offered opportunity which I could not fail to be interested in. Perhaps I have been blinkered to one goal all this time? I have sought always 'male' knight mentor and therein lies my failure perhaps? But this lady requires champion, I know I can do a good job, be a good knight with the right guidance. It is already proven to me that my blood and skin does not hold problem for this as it did on Abeir Toril. So I grasped that document and signed it after drying it out a bit with a little heated breath to allow the pen to take to it as it was damp from the humid air of the sauna.

The lady is truly beautiful, such fine manners and yet quite approachable and friendly, with soothing touch. My toes no longer feel tight after marching in plated boot all day, very generous of her to ease that ache though I felt awkward for her to be kneeling before 'me' in that manner.

Beautiful. That word spoken of me by Sir Kain back at the bar just made me flush. What nonsense. When you compare all she is, to all I am it makes me chuckle.

So journal, to bed. A successful day indeed.
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 16

I retire tonight covered in abyssal blood and dust. But I am far too fatigued and unusually drained to clean it up now. I shall try to awake early and apply myself to that task before attending to my squirely duties to my Lady.

It is not as though I am averse to trying new things, but what she suggested of my faith felt a little uncomfortable in my skin. And yet I found myself slaughtering my adversaries and positively relishing it. It was like a bloodlust came over me and not only my armour was splattered with the demon and devil gore but mark left upon my soul as well. I feel uncomfortable. But I would be lying to myself if I do not admit that I enjoyed that feeling. Honesty to others 'and' to oneself is a must.

This day I tried my best to act with valor and honour and yet my strong arm and body, my ability to deal with the worst of wounds, failed to save my Lady when so persued by the denizens.

They are all desirous to focus on her before any other, seeing her power and her beauty. It took all of my strength to keep the worst from her, champion her and yet I still failed. It was another adventurer passing through that plane who brought her to life once more. I had not sufficient resource to do it myself.

I feel humbled for my poor lack of planning and forethought, a little shamed for my failure of vow to keep her safe. What kind of champion am I to allow this? She had every right to call me to account. I must do better.

Tyr guide me. My dragon blood surges more so of late than before. The pulse at my neck throbs still at the excitement of that battle, drained though I feel.

On better note, it was good to make acquaintance and fight alongside other knights in the abyssal plane, most notably Sir Oliver. The lady Shania too, friend of my Lady was elegant in her style. But I digress.

I feel so tired. That is it for this night, journal.
*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 17

I am dying of embarrassment still here thinking about all that happened. I am not sure I can begin to write of it, journal.

I fear an element of my dragon blood (I'm wondering now if I am mix, hybrid of red and copper, I've still some study and observation to do on this) is now raising its head and tampering with my good sense. I shall pray for stronger will and control over it, Tyr wlling.

One thing is clear. One thing I can accept. That some of that old Code book and instruction on tenets might not be set in stone. Words from both the lady Catarianna and Sir Oliver on the matter allayed my concerns on following such rigid ruling on one.

What makes a good knight? That she should follow her beliefs as to what is right, not necessarily some fusty, musty tome of an old Order's dictation. Sir Oliver was good enough to accept my profound apology for my random action. I say random as I can only think the excitement of the battle against the infernals arose the blood in me. I had such strange thoughts and images never even passed my mind before as I have always been so focused on my goals and other desires. Perhaps that is my error, to have avoided that aspect entirely without understanding that side of myself?

I am not sure I shall sleep that well tonight as I think over it again and again wondering how I might have done better.

*A thoroughly confused squire Beth closes her journal with a snap*

*Pashan01
Posts: 304
Joined: Thu Jan 01, 1970 12:00 am

Posted by *Pashan01 »


Journal Entry 19

I have been fortunate. After training hard in the infernal swamps I returned to the bazaar to find Sir Aeron engaged in merchanting. After enquiring upon one fine quality sword, one of the best I have seen yet in no way close to my dream blade, I took a look at his bargain bin.

And there, as fate would have it, just what I needed to help me in my hour of need - a girdle of chastity - accursed to some, protection for myself. Collar and girdle work I fear in alternate ways, merely a balancing, a status quo for now but what else can I do? I paid also for another blade that I have sworn I will see melted in the lava pool of the Abyss.
Post Reply