A Future in Crafting?

23 Lirisa, 409
City of Crossing - afternoon

I had an amazing experience a few days ago. I was so exhausted from all of the work that I did not get an opportunity to write about it.

Back on 6 Lirisa, a stylist by the name of Yeyaru visited the festival. He was a simple Prydaen fellow, except he possesses the unique ability to simply talk to items and make them change their shape. Dozens of people turned out to make use of his services, and I was looking forward to seeing him work, as well. Before he began he asked for helpers and I decided to volunteer.

It was thrilling work. While most people had an exact idea what they wanted him to do with their clothing and knick knacks, some did not. I helped a fellow Empath to design a gown of pale mauve silk overlaid with lace, with a stunning gossamer skirt. I helped a nice fellow Arylan with his leather armor. He'd decided to lay lava samite with the leather, and needed some help determining where to put it. What we came up with looked quite menacing yet still stylish upon him. I further helped a dwarven cleric with his cloak, figuring out how to stitch his beloved aurochs into his design.

When the work was all finished, dira'ila Yeyaru promised to do some work for myself and the other helpers after the festival. The moment I stepped outside the pavilion, exhausted, the rain that I'd heard pounding away outside cleared up. As egotistical as it sounds, it felt like it was waiting for me. Glad to not have to walk in the rain, I found myself a tavern room in Langenfirth, since those in Therenborough are all booked for the festivities. I slept the sleep of the dead that night, but it was well worth it.

I am back in the Crossing for now, looking forward to the meeting for the Vela'tohr tomorrow. The festival continues only a couple more weeks, and I look forward to returning to enjoy the last bits of it.

Just a Dream

4 Lirisa, 409
City of Crossing, dawn

I just woke up from a very strange dream and wanted to get it on paper before I forget.

I was dancing with dira'ila Elriic at some sort of formal affair. He asked me about my attire with some concern, and I told him it was nothing to worry about. When I looked down I seemed to be wearing a pair of short and tattered pants, and a tunic that was stained with blood - almost more blood than anyone could live through. Even though everyone else was wearing ball finery, I was not distressed over my own horrid clothing, for some reason. I think I was wearing them like badges of honor, as though I'd done something amazing that day.

However, as the leader of the Vela'tohr leaned in and kissed me, I realized that all the formality was for...our wedding. I remember briefly looking around for Linett to see if she was mad at me. I thought I made her out for a moment, but then I woke up.

Now, the decision is whether to tell her or not! Obviously I have no designs on her husband, it was just a dream. I think she is the kind that would understand that...I hope.

Novice No More

32 Ka'len, 409
City of Crossing - midday

That day I was eagerly awaiting has now come. I have proven myself to be a capable healer to the leaders of the Empath guild. I am a novice no more.

I honestly do not know why this excites me so much. I had shared my excitement with some new friends in the Vela'tohr and it was of no great consequence to them, which I understand. The more I think on it, perhaps it is because there was little to be praised upon when I was growing up. Once I told Mother I'd read ten books in one week. She just smiled, nodded, and told me to read ten more. She loved me, of course - but she did not wish to celebrate mediocrity. Though I have to chuckle at that. Some of the most joyous praise I ever received from her was for the simple act of putting on a gown and looking lovely for some affair. If I recall, a family of snow elves would be in attendance and she was desperate to open up trade with them on Surlaenis'a. Although she did not outright say it, it seems she would have married me off to one of them if the opportunity arose, just for more contracts.

She had her little quirks, my mother. Fortunately the snow elves had no interest, or they were all married, something. I was only disheartened that we never made it to Surlaenis'a. I have heard it is incredibly beautiful year round, if you do not pass out from all the steps. In time I do hope to visit. For now, however - my studies are incredibly important to me. I must continue to be better so that I can help those in need. Some poor human nearly bled to death the other day because I could not focus intently enough to heal her wounds quickly enough. I managed to save her, but she will spend a few more days in bed because of me.

I will continue to be better.

A New Journal

24 Ka'len,409
Langenfirth - Late Evening

I picked up this journal at the Guild Festival in Therengia, along with a pretty new quill and a fresh bottle of ink. Perhaps someday I will be a legendary Empath, and this journal will serve as a historical document into my thoughts and processes. Since I seriously doubt that will be the case, maybe writing my thoughts down will help me understand myself a little better.

In a couple of weeks, I will no longer be an apprentice Empath. Once I have proven myself a bit more within the infirmary, they will at last allow me to call myself a Healer. I do not imagine that much will change. What excites me is knowing I will have the support and respect of the guild, wherever I choose to go. Although I do not consider myself an expert by any means, knowing that the guild believes in me is enough for now.

I will return to Crossing tomorrow for a time to continue my studies. Though it is difficult to leave the frivolity of the festival, it will be here for well over a month! There will be plenty of time to return and enjoy it again before it leaves.