Day 191: Good Bye Gracious Town I Failed to Learn the Name of...

Coqoj 17th, 4288: 191 Days in the Mortal Realm

Another fine feast was presented this morning as I woke. I thanked them for their kindness and informed them on my intentions to head out in an hour. They looked somewhat disappointed and I assured them that their hospitality was well received and threw in that they’d be blessed for it. It made me cringe inside when I saw how happy that made them.

As I finished eating, I excused myself to go find Jet, the pony Isaac got me. I figured I’d best name him if he was sticking around with me and Isaac on our travels. When I found him, the town of gnomes were busy making preparations for me. They had Jet washed and clean, though he wasn’t dirty to start with. The saddle was polished,and attached were various packs that had supplies for travel; rope, flint and steel, a pick for cleaning hooves with, soap, and a few other items that I didn’t was think necessary (like a mirror). Strapped to the back of the saddle was a bed roll. It was thick and though I got a great night’s rest in a fine bed, I knew that bed roll was the best I’ve ever seen.

To top it off, as I marveled over Jet and the items they were giving me, they handed me a bag. Inside was food. At a glance it was clear they had given me a fine assortment once more. I knew I would miss it once it was gone.

“Is there anything else that you might need oh great one from the Golden City in the Skies?” a gnomes asked as he grovelled before me.

“No, you have been more than accommodating for my needs. I hope to return one day.”

“We would love to have you come back!” some of the gnomes shouted in unison.

“May we have your blessing upon us?”

I wonder if my smile faltered when I heard that. I think I managed to hide my revulsion to that comment. With a nod of my head and a wave of my hand I hopped up on Jet and had him begin to walk as I thanked the town one last time for their hospitality. The crowd of gnomes followed me out to the edge of town. Made me think of a human story actually. My father read me the Wizard of Oz as a kid and the little munchkins, that honestly sounded like gnomes, were an entourage to Dorothy as she left their city on a yellow road made of bricks.

Once we were far enough out of the city, Isaac reappeared next to me.

“Araja, if ever you’re in a situation like that again, I would suggest you going out with a bigger bang,” Isaac counseled me. I glared at him, but I wasn’t really annoyed with him. I had a smile on my face as Isaac gave his example, “Something like, ‘Farewell and my blessing be upon you and your future generations!’ Add a graceful wave and maybe blow a kiss or two.”

I shook my head as a laugh escaped me. The thought of me doing that was ridiculous. Then I thought, why not? Those gnomes probably would have ate it up more than my simple thanks.

“Sure, I’ll remember that next time.”

“You could have at least given them a copper for all they gave you.”

“Uh, Isaac. I have nothing, remember?” As soon as I said that, it felt ironic. I had no money yes, but I did have a fine dress and provisions for my travels. Isaac gave me a smart look as he too looked at me.

“You know what I mean Isaac,” I shot at him and we bother smirked our amusement.

“I’d give you my gold, but it’s ghost gold now. Only way to get it is if you took it off my actual body,” Isaac mentioned, “I suppose I should feel grateful Cortanna didn’t rummage through my things and take my stuff,” he added.

“That is pretty fortunate you still have your things,” I said.

“What happened to your things anyways?” Isaac ventured. I let out an exasperated sigh. I then explained the best I could what Raæin and I were doing before I was poisoned. The most I could remember were feet and that voice. ‘Oh hai, Arah-yah.’ That stupid accent in his voice. How I hope to kill that man...

“So are you looking for your gear?” Isaac asked.

“Nope. I would love to get my gear back, but how does one find someone she hasn’t really seen. No name, no facial features. Just feet and an accent,” I said somewhat heatedly, “Right now I just want to get back to France and find Raæin. Once there I want to say good bye to him and figure out what to do with myself from there.”

“Why are you saying good bye to Raæin?”

I felt my eyes hood and the depression set in a bit as the memory of my choice set in. It was a lonely choice, but hopefully in the long run I wouldn’t be so emotional with my losses.

“I don’t want to be attached to anyone or anything ever again. I can’t stand losing what I care about dearly. It’s... exhausting,” I tried to explain.

“Well, I’m not going anywhere,” Isaac said somewhat chipper like.

“Uh, I’m not going to get attached to you either Isaac.” Isaac’s head hung, like I had really hurt him. “Seriously Isaac. I’m thrilled to have you around and what not, but I can’t let myself believe that you won’t be there one day. Strange things are always happening and if I lose you, I really don’t want to be emotionally involved that I’m left crippled.”

“To be frank, you’re kind of mean for a girl,” Isaac told me. I bit my lip out of frustration and hurt. I truly liked him as a friend but it irked me to no end that he was upset that I wouldn’t get attached to him? Yet I couldn’t help but wonder, was I really mean? To that I shouted in my head, ‘No!’ It was those sort of things I couldn't allow to plague my head. I knew who I was and what my intentions were. If there was anything I needed to do, it was to become better in my delivery of what I said and did.

We rode on further in silence. The charm and humor from our conversation moments ago seemed distant. Our silence eventually was interrupted by the sound of hooves behind us. I looked to see what it was. A dozen or more riders were flying down the road in our direction. The nervousness of people knowing who I truly was made it so I wanted to hide. I lead Jet off the path and into the trees. It seemed as though we weren’t noticed.

When the riders flew by, it was clear it was Claira’s father and a group of Paladins. They paid no attention to us as they flew by.

“I suppose I ought to just turn myself in,” I said dryly to Isaac.

“I could do something about it,” Isaac began, “Besides, I’m sure he’s just worried about his daughter’s well being. Though I’m sure she deserves a lesson that little snot,”

“But still, they’ll be chasing after me. Might as well get it over with,” I said. Isaac shrugged his shoulders.

“And what are you going to tell them. You forced her to do those acts?”

“What? No! Isaac, that just it. I’m innocent up until you revealed to me what you were doing. I suspect I’ll get off the hook since there’s no way I could have forced Claira to do anything.”

“But you’re not a gnome. That alone will probably prove your guilt to them.”

I rolled my eyes. It was a possibility, but it would be fairly ridiculous if they did. I wasn’t too concerned either way. Of those hunting me down, they were the most harmless

I walked out into the path. The gnomes had long since passed and took no note of me. Soon they were gone around the bend. I figured we’d continue on and if we came across them on the way, I’d turn myself in. 

But alas, here it is night and so far we haven’t caught up to them. I’ve made camp and this bed roll really is something. Very plush. This should be a good night’s sleep.

Day 190: Isaac?

Coqoj 16th, 4288: 190 Days in the Mortal Realm

Ah, the first page of a new journal. How soon I’m sure these pages will be filled with todays events alone. It was quite the curious day to say the least.

Gemmel and I made it back to Golden Spike. Gemmel knew I would be leaving him. He spoke of the gnomes having Ornithopters, a flying contraption, that the gnomes were far better at flying than ships. I had a good nervous chuckle as I reflected on the submarine the gnomes in France had made.

I reflected on wanting to find the person who had poisoned me. Who had taken my belongings. I knew trying to figure out who did that to me would be near impossible. The best option would be to find Raæin, say goodbye, and hopefully in the time leading up to that, I’ll know what to do next. Life was about to get lonely, but alone meant no loss of those I cared about. It was going to be tough enough to say goodbye to Gemmel, but I didn’t want to burden him any more with myself.

After Gemmel gave a glowing recommend, I was determined to find one of the port towns. Hopefully there would be a gnome daring enough to go to France- or rather the Wetland Jungles. I knew where Corban was and I didn’t need anyone else here recognizing me. Gemmel tried to assure me that I had nothing to worry about in the way of the gnomes recognizing me. I informed him of an orc and other folk seeming to know exactly who I was when I first crawled out of the well. He found that unusual and once I described the place he figured it to be bandit territory I had surfaced in.

After that small chat, I began to say my goodbye. I knew I didn’t have much, but I couldn’t ask Gemmel for anything more. That’s when Gemmel placed his hand on my shoulder.

“Now, you might need some help on your travels back to wherever you’re heading, so a,” Gemmel said, cutting himself off. He then pulled out a shimmery, gossamer, black scarf from a pocket. He gave it a good shake before letting it go. I watched the scarf then take a familiar silhouette. Short stature and large horns protruding from his head. It was Isaac! Well, a transparent for of him.

“What? Where am I?” Isaac asked.

“How’d you do that?” I asked Gemmel.

“Don’t you worry about it,” Gemmel responded.

“Uh, I don’t know...” I heard Isaac responded too.

“Seriously,” I pressed at Gemmel, “How is it Isaac’s here? He should be with Cortanna.” I thought it funny that I used Their names so casually with Gemmel. I hadn’t spoken of them. How would he know them? How did he know to summon Isaac?

“Araja?” Isaac asked cautiously, “What happened to you?”

I looked Isaac in the eyes and caught what he meant. Last he saw me I was disguised. Now I was very much my true self and barely clothed in a robe. I could feel my skin crawl once more at the thought of my vulnerability without my gear.

“Not now,” I clipped off at him.

“Well, this is awkward I guess,” Isaac muttered.

“I suppose I’ll leave you two to it,” Gemmel sounded, “Incase you ever need me Serrin,” Gemmel then placed a black pebble in my hand, “Just throw it on the ground.”

I looked down as the pebble sunk in and became nothing more than a dark mark in the center of my palm. I smiled to myself and looked up to thank Gemmel once more. To my surprise, Gemmel and his shop were gone. I squeezed my right hand thankful I had a way to see him again, yet at the same time thinking to myself I probably shouldn’t bother Gemmel. If I ever needed him, it would be a last resort effort. I shouldn’t rely on him to save me everytime I got into a bind.

With Gemmel gone, I focus on what was at present; Isaac.

“How’d he do that?” I demanded of him. Obviously Isaac had to know Gemmel in order for Gemmel to have known to summon him.

“Uh... well... I imagine- actually, I don’t have a clue!” Isaac spat back at me.

“But how does Gemmel know you?”

“Who?”

“The guy that was just here.”

“Oh that explains the oddness in how you were talking. For a moment I thought it was just me being summoned here that was jumbling things. Where’s he now?”

“Somewhere. Left me with a rock.” I held out my hand for isaac to see the spot on my palm, “Pulled a Barrok, but at least he left me a way to communicate with him.”

“Was it Barrok?”

“No. I said his name was Gemmel.”

“How long has it been?”

That I found to be an odd question. But I answered it anyways.

“Um, lets see... it’s been about two months since I left you, Cortanna, and Kedra. It’s the 14th of Coqoj today,” I answered Isaac.

“Where are we?”

“Golden Spike in the Gnomish Kingdom.” Isaac looked at me funny. So I added that the it was east of the Elvish Kingdom. Isaac seemed to have a general idea of where we were. Hopefully we’d be able to get back to Cortanna swiftly enough. I could only imagine what her thoughts are at this moment.

“So, how do you think Cortanna’s taking this?” I asked.

“Did they do something to the sun?” Isaac inquired. I could see his transparent face. His eyes were squinting as though the sun was hurting his eyes.

“Um, no. But seriously, we should try and get back to Cortanna. I can only imagine what she’s thinking with your body suddenly immobile,” I responded. I figured Gemmel had summoned a version of Isaac, leaving his body useless, to help guide me back to France. That was kind of him, but I’m sure Cortanna needed him more than I did.

“Actually,” Isaac said sheepishly, “That note you gave us and how at the end it said ‘don’t die’... well I kind of, sorta died right after reading it,” Isaac said.

“What!” I nearly screamed, “How!?”

“I put on a hat that could have made me immune to death, but clearly I wasn’t strong enough to resist the magics about it. So it killed me instead,” Isaac explained. I clenched my right hand into a fist and sent it through Isaac’s face. Immediately I regretted the action. I weird chill ran up my arm and through my body. Punch the ghost of Isaac wasn’t going to do anything to him other than leave me feeling icky inside.

Absent mindedly I shook my right hand as though I could shake the chill from it. I glared at Isaac.

“Why would you do something so risky like that Isaac!? Cortanna’s a 16 year old girl! Granted she’s an adult, but still!” I fumed. She... she was the only one left of the party besides me and Gideon. I wonder if Gideon’s with her now. That would at least be some extra protection for her. I doubt Kedra is of any real help.

“I’m sure she’s doing just fine,” Isaac tried to console.

“She’s in a land she doesn’t know at all! I can’t say it’s safe either. They’re stuck in time where the mark is still vile and Heironious is still almighty!” I continued on. I then took a deep breathe. Why did it matter? Either she’d die or find a place to settle down.

Hmm, settling down... that actually had a pleasant ring to it.

“She does have that horse thing looking after her.”

“I suppose. Raæin did give her his blessings for a better mount.” I then explained how I wanted to go back to France, find Raæin, and let him know that he and I should part ways. I explained I didn’t want to be attached to him like I once was so if ever he was killed I wouldn’t be crippled with loss. He had already done so much for me. It was best to give him a chance to be his own creature, to make his own decisions that didn’t have my influence in them.

Isaac asked about my gear to which I just shook my head. I only told him it was stolen. I didn’t want to go into further details. Isaac was also impressed by the ‘good’ time I’ve made having travels to the opposite side of the globe and had been to both the Elven and Gnomish Kingdoms. I shook my head. There wasn’t anything to be impressed by considering I had been brought there against my will.

“Isaac, I don’t really want to ponder on the past 2 months. I’ll tell you more when I’m ready. However we really ought to get going toward the coast. I want to locate a gnome willing to fly us across the world to France,” I said, trying to stop Isaac’s questions. Isaac sunk down into the ground. I could see him poke his head out ever so often. It was like having a strange puppy follow me around.

“However, before we go, I’m hoping I’ll be able to work for some items. I need to get food, a bedroll, a tent, and hopefully a new outfit...” I said, but trailing off when the realization of Isaac not being visible next to me and the fact I was in the Gnomish Kingdom. Everywhere I looked gnomes were going about their daily business... I was a giant to them! Would I be able to find more suitable clothes? Let alone a bedroll and tent in my size.

Isaac didn’t respond. I figured it was him being good and not giving himself away. I began to enter various shops seeing if they had any odd jobs I could do in exchange for items. My attempts weren’t fruitful. After the fifth shop denying me, I found a spot to sit down and think. It would be risky to just press on without any supplies. The first few nights out of the well were rough and I only wanted to resort to traveling with nothing as a last resort.

As I pondered other options to obtain what I needed, I couldn’t help but overhear a little girl. She looked like she was 9 years old. It was clear she and her father were well off. Her father was in a fine suit with a monocle and cane. The girl was in a light blue dress that had lots of ribbons decorating it. Her shoes were polished and her blonde hair was pulled into a pretty bun, adorned with a jeweled pin. I wouldn’t have cared so much if the girl wasn’t obnoxiously announcing it was her birthday. Even worse, she saw me.

“Daddy! I want her to give me a ride!” the girl shouted from across the street. I don’t know if my cheeks could show any blush, but I felt a bit mortified to have been referred to in such a way to be considered nothing more than a domesticated beast. Yet I knew I ought to let my pride go and think of a reasonable price for such a favor. If I was to fulfill this birthday request, I should try and use it to my advantage too.

“Darling, surely there’s something else you’d rather do on your birthday,” I heard the gnome try to dissuade his daughter. She shook her head and pouted her lip.

“I want her to give me a ride daddy!” the girl insisted. The father shook his head and let out an exasperated sigh. It looked like he had just conceded to his daughter when suddenly she changed her mind. “Actually daddy, get that thing some clothes!” She demanded, “Hey lady! Come on! Let’s go shopping!” The father and I both looked at her like she had lost her mind. Why did she want to take me shopping? Yet, why was I questioning this?

Her father mentioned something I couldn’t catch. but from how his expression was, it was another attempt to talk his daughter out of involving me.

“Yes daddy,” Claira said sweetly. She grabbed her father’s hand and began to approach me. “Well, come on,” she insisted once she was next to me. I’m not sure which intrigued me more: her tenacity or the fact she was still shorter than me considering I was sitting.

“I’m sorry miss, but my daughter is feeling unusually... charitable,” the gnome choked out. He worked his mouth as though a foul taste was left. Claira latched onto my arm.

“Can she be my new dolly?”

“What?” Claira’s father and I both responded.

“I’m just kidding. Lets get her a better outfit. This one’s ugly,” Claira answered. The little gnome girl then pulled on my arm until I stood. She then drug me over to a store and lead me inside. It was a clothing shop. I tried to remain as small as I could with my wings tucked in tight and stooping so I wouldn’t hit my head. The little girl thankfully let go of my hand and went over to one of the workers, her father close on her heels.

Claira pointed to me and the gnome seamstress peered at me over her glasses. She nodded, mentioning they had made clothes for the elves. Claira then went about pointing out all her favorite colors and fabrics while the seamstress measured me. I mentioned to the lady that an open back with a clasp or something to tie was what worked best for my wings. She nodded her head to confirm she had heard me as she muttered numbers and jotted them down.

The seamstress said it’d be an hour before she had the dress ready. We walked outside to which the father asked his daughter if that was all she wanted for her birthday. She insisted that she needed a new tea set so she could have a tea party with me. The father was clearly displeased with his daughter. I didn’t pitty him much. Claira seemed to be the product of her father.

We went to the mercantile store. I could see inside was plenty of fragile items. I tried to sit outside, but the girl insisted I go in, carrying her... The store was filled with all sorts of things. Claira was eager to oggle over the tea sets. For a moment she almost convinced her father to buying a tea set that looked as though a blind potter or five year old, had crafted it. It was garish to say the least. Lucky the father she had something else she’d rather have over it; a dream journal and happy pony...

It was also clear that Claira’s father was concerned about his daughter. WIth how he was talking to Claira, he was clearly indecisive as to whether she was suddenly ill or he was just realizing how ridiculous his daughter’s selfish demands were. Anyways, he bought her a gaudy journal with a unicorn on it and picked out the ‘happiest’ pony (complete with an outrageously glitzy saddle).

After all of that, we went back to the seamstress for my dress. I must say, as showy as it was, it’s the finest bit of clothing I’ve ever worn. The fabric shimmered and was turquoise in color. The lining had a long slit and was a pail blue. Collar was high with a small emerald or opal. A larger version of the gem gathered the turquoise fabric on my left hip. Claira insisted upon me wearing some black high heels too. If ever I was to fight in the unforeseen future, I was certain this get up would hinder me some. I couldn't help but also think how beautiful I looked. Maybe that was vein of me to think... but as I sit here thinking about this dress I now have, it's flattering to feel good about ones appearance.

Claira then demanded she and I go for a pony ride together. The father seemed skeptical about that. He figured I was too tall for the horses. I figured riding in a dress would be impossible. But in the end they found their largest pony and they have side saddles... I ended up riding side saddled with the little girl. She lead the way while I followed. After this little ride, I was going to be done and attempt to find a few more provisions before leaving town.

“Hey Araja,” I heard Claira say. I whipped my head around to look at her. I was completely shocked she knew who I was. “It’s cool Araja, it’s me, Isaac,” she said. Sure enough, it was Isaac. He poked his head out a little and I just gaped at him.

“Here’s the plan, you keep going and I’ll go tell her dad that ‘I’ told you to go away,” Isaac said matter-of-factly. I felt conflicted. It was nice to not be in a robe that barely managed to keep me appropriate and to have a mount that could help carry things, but was this stealing? Claira’s father was just tricked...

“Uh, yeah. Thanks I guess for the dress and mount...”

“And this journal,” Isaac said. He pulled out the unicorn journal he had convinced the girls father to buy.

so what are we going to do when we need to rest?” I said.

“Oh yeah, you have to sleep... eh, sell the pony in the next town. I’ll catch up with you in a little bit” Isaac mentioned.

“I’ll wait about a mile out of town along this road,” I said pointing toward the direction of the coast. He then turned his pony around and took off. I continued on my way trying to justify what Isaac had done. Clearly the dress and mount was nothing to be missed by that wealthy family.

Soon Isaac was back and we began our journey to the coast.

“That dress looks mighty nice on you,” Isaac said. I felt flattered, but it then felt weird... Isaac dressed me? “Oh and you may not want to ever go back to Golden Spike,” he added.

“Why?”

“Oh, you know. The whole possession thingy... well she may not know what happened, but she knows something happened.”

“Lovely,” I said sarcastically.

After a while, the pony began to act weird.

“Araja,” a very horse like  voice said.

“Isaac?” I asked.

“Yep. I can possess animals too.”

I slid off the pony. Isaac them came out of the animal, his arms folded.

“What’s wrong with me being a pony?” Isaac asked. The poor pony was shaking and sat down. I patted it’s head trying to soothe it.

“Nothing Isaac. I just didn’t feel like riding on your back.” I carefully slipped the bit out of the pony’s mouth since I had no intentions of riding him any time soon. After a few moments, the pony calmed down enough to let me lead him along, Isaac bobbing about us.

“Death has done a number on you Isaac.”

“How so?”

“You’re more carefree and, well, silly. You’re not that serious guy I remember.”

“If you say so,” Isaac responded, still bobbing about in the air.

Isaac and I come upon a town as evening began to set in. I had intentions of selling the pony, but soon after walking into town I could hear murmurs of folk assuming I was a princess. I looked around dumbfounded by such an assumption. Just when I figured I'd press on and ignore such an outrageous thought, a gnome walked up to me with a more obscured question.

"Are you a Goddess?" I looked at the gnome not knowing how to respond to him. "Should I worship you?" I continued to question.

"No. Don't worship me," I responded quickly. I couldn't help but feel disgusted in my own body. The way he said it just sounded so... desperate. I don't know. I'm nothing worthy to be worshiped.

Before I knew it, gnomes were gathering left and right with plates of food and precious items. Confused I took a moment to assess the situation. I almost laughed when it clicked in my head. I came into town with a fine pony in hand. I'm in a very nice dress that is rather gaudy. I am an Angelic and I had no way of hiding it without my circlet. It felt wrong to want to take advantage of their misinterpretation of who I really am, but getting a few meager items couldn't be all that harmful right? They were literally begging to show their worthiness to have my presence. I told them a room for the night and food for my travels would be more than enough.

They certainly went above and beyond what was necessary. They put me in the mayor's home with a meal fit for royalty. I never had such decadent food in my life! If I knew how to act better as royalty, perhaps I would have been more tempted to reign over the citizens. Alas, I knew I couldn't do that. It was hard enough accepting what they were already giving to me free of charge.

Once I saw I was alone I called for Isaac.

"Wow, nice set up you got here."

“I hate you because of this dress,” I shot at him, “But, thank you at the same time. They think I’m a Goddess,” I drawled, hoping Isaac would catch my sarcasm for my enthusiasm. He remained silent. In fact I felt a bit stupid for having told him that considering he had been following me around the whole time.

“Okay then... so tomorrow. I figure we’ll rest up- er, I’ll rest up, and then in the morning I’ll just explain that I’m from the higher realm wanting to experience the common life. I’d only need some meager things, like a backpack. Food would be a good thing to have as well since I don’t know if there’ll be many towns like this one, nor do I expect it,” I told Isaac.

“Ya know,” Isaac said, his ghostly face having a thoughtful look about it, “If I were in your shoes, which I could be,” he gave a soft chuckle, “I would say ‘I’m a simple traveler with simple needs that-’”

“And through in Heironious will bless them greatly for their kindness unto me,” I said mockingly.

“No, you don’t even have to do that. Just get your needs filled and by them doing so, infer upon them that for meeting your ‘simple’ needs, they’ll have blessing poured upon them. It’s the whole helping the wayward traveler. You’ll be happy and they’ll be happy.”

I pondered Isaac’s words. The more I thought about them, the more I liked his suggestion. I wouldn’t be elevating myself and their generosity wouldn’t be in vain... to them at least.

“Also, I wouldn’t recommend staying long,” Isaac added. I snorted my agreement.

“I anticipate being out of here in the morning,” I informed Isaac, “I don’t want to abuse their hospitality-”

“Oh, that’s why we’re leaving so soon? I’m more concerned about Claira’s father.”

“What’d you do?”

“Well, I did possess his daughter. I wouldn’t be surprised if she had a complete freak out and explained the best she could what happened, or what didn’t happen. I’m not really sure what happens to the person when I possess them, but I figure it’s not pleasant,” Isaac explained, rushing his words together towards the end. I rolled my eyes. Of course there’d be consequences to Isaac’s ability. I figured if someone came for me, I’d go peacefully and be honest. At the time, I hadn’t a clue what Isaac could do and so therefore knew nothing about it until we left.

Day 182: Restoration and Discussions

Coqoj 13th, 4288: 182 Days in the Mortal Realm

Words can’t describe how wonderful it feels to be in my body again! Bought back with pain, I once more enjoy the feeling of wiggling my toes in the grass. Being able to eat as a person with my hands and not having to struggle getting my words out anymore is something I’ll cherish. Never will I forget my time as a lizard.

It is suffice to say that the elf made it in time to cure me. Today being the last day of Carnival, there had no signs of the elf that Gemmel had talked with two days prior. Gemmel waited as long as he could. A guard had approached him to hurry him along seeing that he was delaying. However right behind the guard was a scurrying of folk. The elf pushed past the guard with a few other elves following after. They were carrying various herbs and plants and a snake.

The elf called out Gemmel’s name. He stopped what he was doing and began to chat with him. There were many gestures made and pointing at items. Gemmel then turned to me.

“Okay. So this is what they want to do. The snake,” Gemmel points to the black serpent in one of the elf’s hands, “they’re gonna make it bite you. Then right when you’re about to die, they’ll put this salve they’re making, with the plants, into the bite wound to which you will shed the snake skin and grow out in your normal body,” Gemmel explained. He then took a deep breath, seeming sadden by what he said next, “It will be excruciatingly painful and there is a possibility that you’ll end up dying despite their efforts.”

I distinctly remember the hope and joy I had at a cure being found vanishing from my being. If I refused, I would be a lizard probably the rest of my life. If I accepted, I could very well die in the process.

Why did I feel so scared? Death; I’ve wanted it for some time. If this ended up killing me, it wasn’t as though I were committing suicide. Either way I would win. I would be dead and free from all the pains this life offered or I would have my body again and continue to seek my revenge on Heinul.

With a deep breath, I looked into Gemmel’s eyes.

“I. Sup.pose. If. This. Is. Good.bye... I. Want. To. Thank. You. For. All. You’ve. Done. For. Me,” I told Gemmel with as much warmth as I could. It was hard not to love him. But I suppressed that emotion the best I could. I knew my time with him would be temporary. But the gratitude I felt was overwhelming. It had been a long time since experiencing such unconditional kindness. It was everything I could only hope to aspire to be one day.

Gemmel nodded to the elf. All of the elves huddled around me. Two held onto the snake, two others holding a robe for me (I’m sure Gemmel made sure of that), and the one elf Gemmel had communicated with, held onto a bowl filled with a paste that I assumed to be the salve. I could feel my heart race. I was scared. I was putting my trust into people I didn’t know, that I assumed had my best interest. What would they do once they saw my true form?

The bite from the snake was quick. The pain that followed seemed endless. I felt my head lull as my legs grew weak. The pain really was excruciating. Hell may have tortured me, but its funny how time between pains numbs what clearly was worse than what I was currently experiencing.

I felt my head begin to numb, my eyes rolling back, and my breath becoming so shallow I wasn’t sure I was breathing at all. Something soothing then touched the bite wound and in that moment I found my strength. The skin split around my body as I forced myself to stand, spreading my wing wide. It was like wake from a deep sleep; stretching my limbs and wings from their confinement after so long.

The elves were respectful and each had adverted their eyes. I felt slightly embarrassed for having taken the moment to stretch, but I must say, I couldn’t help it. Quickly I started to put the robe on when my wings came into play. Gemmel came to my aid, cutting away a section of the back. It didn’t fit wonderfully, but at least I was presentable.

I could see the elves eyeing me. The made some remarks to Gemmel, chuckling. Gemmel turns to me and said, “They’re mighty impressed by you.” I gave a soft smile. I assume the whole wings bit was what they were impressed by. I’m definitely not what most folk would expect. So far it would seem no one knew me either. I then expressed my gratitude the best I could with the language barrier. It actually felt really good to hear my voice. It was clean, easy, and  fluid. Not scratchy and rough like it was moments before. Part of me knew I would always appreciate my body that much more after my time as a lizard.

“Now, you are free to go where you want or you can travel back with me,” Gemmel told me. I knew I had to make a choice quick because the guards were lingering close by. It was apparent they wanted to get Gemmel out.

“I feel safest with you right now. I’ll go with you and hopefully from there figure out where I want to go,” I answered.

“Well A- I mean Serrin, you should climb into the wagon,” Gemmel told me as he opened the door into the wagon. Then in a whisper he said, “Don’t want them thinking I’m kidnapping you or something seeing I didn’t come in with you. Also I have one quick thing to do with the elves and we’ll be on our way.”

I nodded and entered the wagon. A couple minutes go by before I felt the wagon jolt forward. It felt like 30 minutes passed before Gemmel knocked on the door.

“It’s safe now,” Gemmel said to me. He then opened the door and I carefully climbed out. I blinked in the sunlight. The transition from dark to light was noticeably different now that I had my normal body back than that of the lizard’s. The color of the forest was richer than I remembered them being in the month I’ve resided in them.

I climbed up onto the wagon bench, Gemmel climbing up right next to me. He picked the reigns up and gave a cluck to his horse.

“So where will you be headed now?” Gemmel asked as we rode along. I let out a long sigh. In the solitude I had, nothing came to mind. I had no money. Nothing but my hands to work with. That feeling of responsibility with the prophecy still weighed on my shoulders. But what could I possibly do when I didn’t have my gear to protect myself with?

Oh yes, that was the thought I tried not to think about... my gear. How my skin crawled every time I thought about the amazing items I had, now all stolen from me. How impossible it must be for me to ever find the culprit who put me in this lot in life. I swore to myself that I would kill him if ever the chance was presented.

At the same time, the anger I felt left me sick. I knew revenge wasn’t what I should focus on, but I seemed helpless to it. I needed to let it go. All of it I need to let go of and move on It was just one more thing that they could use against me. A vice to control me the way I care. Like Gemmel had said along our travels; patience is what he believed has attributed to his long life. I’ve brushed with death one too many times. So I reminded myself once more that I needed to let go of these attachments. I needed to forgive like I once did when I followed Heironious.

A vile taste formed in my mouth as the conflicting thoughts ran through my head. Alas, I was still left with indecision. What was I to do?

“To be honest, I don’t know Gemmel,” I finally answered, “All I know is I hope... to fulfill what I’ve been told to do, but-”

“Doing what you’re told to do is always noble,” Gemmel pitched in, “As long as those who told you what to do are right.”

I let out a sigh of exasperation. Gemmel was trying to be encouraging, yet what he tagged on at the end just annoyed me. Why must everything be so gray? My previous life everything seemed so black and white. Now I can’t make up my mind because its all so muddled! What’s good? What’s bad?

“I hope they’re right,” I snapped. I then humbled myself for I didn’t want to be rude to the one person who’s shown me the most kindness over the past month, “I’m sorry. I suppose even if they aren’t right... those I’m after have caused me enough pain that they ought to be stopped. That deity...” I trailed off. Thinking about Heironious and how He betrayed me- betrayed all those who followed Him so dearly! It still stung. How I wanted to make Him suffer as I had!

“Ya know, I’ve never been much of a worshipper myself, but I find it kind of pointless to go blaming the Gods for our misfortune,” Gemmel said. I knew he meant well, but after hearing him say that, I felt so disconnected. Of course he would think it pointless. He doesn’t know how they’ve hurt me! How He took my family from me!

“Quite often we’re mean enough to each other,” Gemmel continued to say.

“Gemmel,” I interrupted, “Do you even know what’s going on with the Gods right now?” Gemmel gave a soft smile. I’m glad he couldn’t read my mind for I felt ugly for feeling irritated with him at the time.

“As you can see, I don’t get out much from my shop,” He warmly said. The expression he held stopped me for a moment. I reflected on my time with him. I may not have been with him long, but from what I’ve gathered, the most he traveled was to Plumage once a year for Carnival. Then the rest of his time was spent at his shop in Golden Spike. During the week at his shop, he rarely went outside. He truly stayed put. No wonder he didn’t know.

I couldn’t help it. A smile stole across my face. That was when my heart softened. I couldn’t be critical of Gemmel’s indifference to what was currently happening nor what had happened in my past. Obviously he had a past, but it was something he didn’t want to share. Something I’m sure would show an ugly side to him. He was giving sound advice. It just wasn’t what I was quite ready to hear.

So I forced myself to open up, to truly listen to what he said. If I really wanted to let go of the past, of all the anger I had pent up inside, then I best be willing to hear Gemmel out as I explained my plight.

“I’m sure there has been plenty that has happened since I’ve stopped keeping tabs on the world,” Gemmel went on, “I suppose that’s been best for me.”

“I wish I could not worry so easily as you Gemmel. I’m finding it very hard to just let go of what’s happening,” I answered more solemnly, “When everything I’ve loved has been taken from me-” I stopped. I didn’t want to get all ‘woe is me’ though I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s exactly what I had done the entire time, “I don’t have a way to communicate with my previous companions... You see I had gone on a healing quest with Raæin, to which I left token with my companions so we could communicate. I no longer have my tokens.

“I left my party hoping I’d find myself while away from death and war. To put other before myself and to actually do something that I knew without a doubt was good. Raæin was the only one who could heal,” I paused for a moment. Oh how I missed him! “I sure hope’s alright. I can only wonder what he must be doing after this whole lizard fiasco,” I said.

“Oh I’m sure he’s alright. He’s one fine specimen,” Gemmel assured me.

“That he was,” ‘is’ was what I meant to say, but I was trying to put Raæin in my past. I needed to forget him.

“Not quite what his father was, but still quite amazing” Gemmel rambled on.

“You knew his father?”

“Hmm?”

“You knew his father?” I repeated.

“Who’s father?” Gemmel inquired.

“You just mentioned Raæin father like you knew him,” I explained. Poor Gemmel. Either he didn’t want to talk about Raæin’s dad or his old age was showing. Gemmel’s eyes saddened. I ventured to ask, “What happened to him?”

Gemmel let out a weary sigh.

“He died,” he confessed.

“Old age?” Silence. Seeing how I was to defeat Erythnul and Raæin was my companion, something inside me wondered if perhaps Raæin’s father was caught up in the God thing.

“Erythnul?” I asked.

“What?”

“Er-yth-nul,” I enunciated better.

“Who?” I looked at Gemmel slightly amazed. How lucky he didn’t know this evil deity.

“Lucky you,” I said off handedly.

“Perhaps,” Gemmel commented, “But there was a war Raæin’s father was caught up in. One of them prophecies he was trying to fulfill. I can’t remember any details of it now-””

“I think I know which one you’re talking about. I know every word of it if you need me to recite it,” I jumped in.

“No, this was before Raæin was born,” Gemmel said.

“Raæin’s dad had a prophecy?”

“No, no. To be honest, prophecies are a dime a dozen. I think it’s silly how much stalk people put into these prophecies. It’s as though they didn’t have a choice. That’s when the Gods get involved. They start spouting out prophecies to get followers. Leading them on like they’re the only one who could do anything about it,” Gemmel rambled on. My mouth hung open at the horror I heard. A dime a dozen? Gods using them to gain followers!? Was I just a product of God fearing fools!? Was Gemmel even right?

I think Gemmel caught sight of my head wheeling under what he said. He then tagged on, “Sometimes it’s true of course.” That didn’t help much. How was one to determine which was true and which wasn’t? “Now Raæin’s father was in the midst of trying to fulfill one of these prophecies. Thought he was doing right by fulfilling it... Well it was a pity the way it went down. I had to put him down in the end,” Gemmel said. His eyes were forlorn and they looked familiar. The numbing hurt that still lingered in me when I reflected on that night.

“I hear you... that couldn’t have been easy.” I tried to say comfortingly.

“Well, you do what you got to do,” Gemmel said, seeming to brush off the darkness that was coming over us as he shared bits of his past.

“You make it sound so easy. I killed my sister 2 months- no... 3 months ago now and it still haunts me,” I disclosed.

“Oh, your sister’s been dead for some time now,” Gemmel mentioned. My head jerked toward him. I looked at him with utmost curiosity, “What you killed was probably something else.”

“How so?” I asked. I was most certain I freed my sister from something evil. That it wasn’t her who was evil, but some entity that took her body for itself. I needed Gemmel to explain more.

“Think about that lizard body you were in. Where you the lizard or were you trapped inside the lizard? Did you die back there or was it the lizard you were trapped in that died?” Gemmel thoughtfully elaborated. It made sense, or so it seemed. Something had to have taken over Meryth’s body. Someone else had to have been trapped within her.

“So she was possessed,” I said to myself.

“Oh I don’t know about that,” Gemmel interjected.

“Well, what was it that- what could do that kind of thing?”

“Oh, there are a number of beings capable of doing things that are unkind,” Gemmel said. It was an odd answer, but I figured I’d drop it. The important thing was it wasn’t Meryth I killed. I don’t know what I killed, but it wasn’t Meryth. It felt more like I saved her and even though there wasn’t any proof that I had, it gave me comfort.

While thinking about Meryth and unkind beings, I thought of Heinul and felt it would be important to explain that much of what the Gods are doing to Gemmel. Explain what continued to weigh on my mind as something I needed to deal with.

“Last I saw Heironious, it was obvious He and Erythnul had become one,” I paused, seeing if I could read Gemmel’s expression, “From what I’ve been told, it was them as well as... Malfeiya, were trying to become one. It would seem their plans were foiled since I killed Malfeiya, but Heironious and Erythnul still are one. Am I not to be concerned if their ultimate plan is to unite the Heavens and Hells into one being?” I asked. Gemmel furrowed his brow in thought.

“Why, what you’re saying is like asking if we should be worried about an earthquake.” He paused for a moment to let me think. I was about to respond saying that I suppose we need not to when he said, “Of course we should! But- does it mean it’s gonna happen today? Tomorrow? A year down the road? Probably eventually happen,” Gemmel elaborated.

“But when it does, what does that mean for us?”

“Oh end of the world for what we know of it at least.” I gawked a bit at how plainly he said it. He continued on before I could question him, “It would be bad for us. But who’s to know what will become of it. Look at this land for example. Gnomes and elves weren’t created here. They came here. There were other creatures, other beings here before them and are now gone. But is that necessarily evil? Kind of a rough deal for whoever was here before.

“If you look around, elves aren’t so bad. Nor are the gnomes. They’re capable of doing great good, just like those who were here before them. They’re just different creatures. So if the Gods really do combine and all that, it’ll just mean a different something for us. There’ll still be good. There’ll still be evil,” Gemmel expatiated on, “We’re just on the bad end of that stick.”

“Very true,” I said glumly. It was a bit depressing to think that perhaps once my people over took land from others that lived there before. It was depressing to feel helpless to the change that could very well end mine and others existence.

“Ya know, I’ve been around long enough to have seen a lot of these ‘there’s gonna be an earthquake’ moments,” Gemmel interrupted my thoughts, “I have yet to meet one of these metaphorical earthquakes. I’m sure I will eventually. Not today and probably not tomorrow.”

We sat in silence for a time. It was a lot to take in, though it was sound advice. It was something I could easily understand. Gemmel wasn’t trying to belittle the seriousness of what was happening. He, unlike me, had come to accept things running their natural course. I figured I would eventually know what I wanted to do, but in the mean time, it would be wise to find Raæin and let him know I’m alright.

“Well, I guess if there’s anything I want to do first, it would be to locate Raæin and tell him goodbye,” I mentioned to Gemmel. I wasn’t expecting him to care what I did. It would be a feat for me to accomplish reuniting on my own with Raæin. No money to pay for the fare for a ship. No money to buy some bird tokens.

“I’m sure he’ll understand whatever it is you decide to do,” Gemmel replied. I snorted.

“Still trying to figure that out. I feel there’s a vendetta I need to resolve...” I trailed off. Even if I solved my affairs with the Gods, what would I do then? Continue to pursue all the evils that arose? I let out a quiet sigh, “It just seems unending...”

“What seems unending?” Gemmel pressed.

“The cycle. Good wins, evil rises, repeat.”

Gemmel reigned in his horse. Once it was stopped he turned and looked me in the eyes.

“Araja, now you look over there at that grove of trees,” Gemmel instructed pointing off to a patch of trees, “There once was a big tall tree over there that no longer is there whether it be due to weather, lightning, age, rot, or someone coming through looking for a big tree to build a boat out of. Either way that tree isn’t there anymore. It died.

“Now there’s new life springing up. As you’ve said, it’s as though the cycle is starting all over. One things trying to kill another thing so that thing can be the bigger thing,” Gemmel then eyed me hard, “Does that make any of them really evil? Or on the contrary does that make any of them really good? One’s always trying to overcome the other.

“Now I’m not saying the Devils are good or Gods are evil. I’m saying that there’ll always be struggle, this cycle, of one thing trying to overcome or overpower another. Araja, that’s just life,” Gemmel said with earnest, “And if you’re trying to escape that, then I’m sorry. You won’t find that in this life or the next for that matter.”

I didn’t say anything for a long while. Gemmel got his horse going once more. It was hard to ignore my past. Like I said earlier, I knew I had to let go, but as I thought about it, I understood why I clung to this notion of destroying Erythnul. Every waking moment, for as long as I could remember in my first life, was drilled into me that I was Fall. That I was to take Erythnul down. How important it was that I fulfilled my duty in the prophecy. It was unclear to me where I drew all that power I had from, but I suspect Heironious played his part in that.

“Maybe I ought to find a hobby,” I announced suddenly. That would be something to take my mind off the present. Something that could generate an income for myself seeing I wasn’t about to be doted upon with riches.

“Oh I suppose that’d be good. I like basket weaving,” Gemmel suggested. Warmth had returned to his voice from the sternness he had used moments ago. I laughed. I suppose it was something.

“Yeah? Maybe you could teach me,” I said.

“I’m afraid not,” Gemmel responded. I had chuckled a little but he seemed serious, “Basket weaving requires two hands,” Gemmel added. My smile faded as I looked at him quizzically. I looked to the reigns and noticed he had been driving the horse with one hand. His right arm rested on his lap. Where his hand should have been was nothing but a stump.

“What happened there?” I asked. I was surprised I hadn’t noticed it before. What had happened? How was he able to create his potions and wondrous items? Clearly he was more talented than I thought.

“Hmm what?” Gemmel replied. My smile came back as it seemed like Gemmel was being playful by avoiding answering my question.

“You’re hand. What happened to it?”

“Oh, you know how them elf wizards are,” I didn’t, “they’re more than happy to help a friend for a price.”

“Seriously? They asked for a hand? I suppose it’s better than an arm and a leg,” I said jokingly. Gemmel gave a soft smile.

“They know what I am,” he said. That comment struck me. As I looked at Gemmel, it was very obvious he wasn’t a folk I was familiar with. He was humanoid. He was humanish... but he wasn’t. His eye were round. I don’t know why it didn’t strike me sooner. This must be why everyone always felt guarded around him.

“They thought that having a bit of me would be interesting. So I gave them a part that wouldn’t be of any use. In a bad sense. They thought they could gain an advantage over me,” Gemmel explained. I figured this was why he was allowed to go into the elven kingdom each year. They had a part of him. Kind of a weird price to pay, but I suppose if Gemmel was willing to pay the price, then whatever. But how has he been able to craft so well with just one hand?

“By chance do you have ‘alter self’ spells?” I asked.

“Nope.”

“Then how have you been crafting so well?” Gemmel looked at me somewhat sheepishly.

“Well, I had two hands up until this afternoon.,” Gemmel said. I looked at him somewhat dumbfounded, “The price to restore you was my right hand.”

The lightness that I was feeling left. My mouth hung open. I felt mortified that Gemmel had to pay such a price. The elves took his right hand to restore me? Gemmel was willing to part with his hand for my sake? Why did I always cause such misfortune to those around me?

“I’m so sorry Gemmel,” I began to say.

“Oh don’t worry. It’ll grow back,” Gemmel said nonchalantly, “It always does.” That gave some comfort. At least it wasn’t a lasting handicap.

“How long will that take?”

“Oh, a couple hours, a few days, maybe a year. I can’t always predict how quickly I’ll regenerate, but it will.”

“Are you a type of troll?” I asked. He didn’t really look it, but that was the only folk I could think of that had the ability to regenerate limbs.

“Oh no,” Gemmel chuckled, “I am what I look like. I’m not wearing any disguise.” I eyed Gemmel. I still couldn’t place a name of folk for him.

“I’ve never seen something like you. Or if I have, I can’t remember,” I said.

“Oh I know you haven’t ever met someone like me,” Gemmel responded. A weird chill went through me as he said that. It was so unexpected that it through me off. Had I been reading Gemmel wrong and now that I was prodding about what he was, I was being threatened? No. This must be what the other folk felt around him. That chill that left you feeling apprehensive when there wasn’t anything evident to base the feeling off of.

With that, the rest of our travel that day was spent with small talk and silence. I had much to digest. I have another 6 days until we we're back in Golden Spike. From there I know I will have to figure out my own way. Here's hoping the next 6 nights will bring some kind of epiphany as to what I should do.