Children

There are many ladies in the Tribe that are pregnant; and others that already have children. Vivvienne and Anannia are both predicted to give birth within the next few weeks. And a handful of other ladies, including Vindy, anticipate children by the summer. Glenshadow has six little ones, although the oldest is a man in his own right and hardly little. There are also Anais and Zephanye, sired by Westel and Scynthe, respectively. Sir Veladrys has Rhiaden.


The great number of young and tiny beings in my vicinity causes me great anxiety. My unnatural presence is not easily defined to them, but it should not be trivialized, either. This is what I took great pains to try and explain to Anannia when she thought, mistakenly, that it would be a good thing to have me near her delivery.


The potency of these ladies and men is quite striking as well. Some members of the Tribe seem to fall in love and become pregnant within weeks, with little effort. But no matter the effort or energy I might devote, I will never be one among this group. This body is not capable.


But it was not always so. I do w- ((Three more lines of text are blotted out by ink.))

Errands

Mirtai and I ran errands together yesterday, and she accompanied me to see the carriage. We encountered Pip in Orgrimmar, and the shamaness seemed to not remember that she had threatened Mirtai the last time they met. I assured her that no further contention was necessary, and Pip warmed immediately.

There was a note from Miss Hackwrench waiting when we arrived at the barn in Tirisfal. She stated that she was out collecting some of the parts that had gone missing from the reconstruction. I am not certain what occurred, and the others that were present did not, either. Aomaho and Sunspeaker were both working there, along with their supplier Rux, and Sir Veladrys, Sunspeaker’s brother.

Aomaho set out a tea for us and Pip provided a cake consisting of five types of chocolate and adorned with a letter “A” on it. I admit I was pleased to see that she is still practicing her letters, though our lessons have dwindled. Rux and Aomaho showed the progress on the carriage, and Sunspeaker and I discussed coloring of curtains and trim. 

For as rarely as she travels now, Mirtai behaved quite well. She was polite, and spoke easily with Rux in particular. Though I could discern that she was not comfortable. By contrast, another man named Revelin, who is attached to Veladrys, appeared. This was a noisy point of disagreement between the brothers Sunspeaker. Eventually, the paladin and the man he called his husband retreated.

Minus the missing parts, Aomaho still assured me that the carriage will be completed in time. I approve of this, as I still must apply the security, and I do not yet know how this will be accomplished on a movable object.

Consultation

I showed Urukha the carriage, in its partially restored form. She approved of it, and I took advantage of her strong sense of style. She offered some very good suggestions about colors. I believe it also helped in moving her mind away from unpleasant things. We sat and drank a silvery wine on the cliffs of Tirisfal and had a lovely chat.

She also made inquiries regarding D.A., and I confess that I boasted the true intent of the carriage project.  She seemed amused by my enthusiasm. But it is difficult to conceal such a marvelous idea.

Last night I saw her again in Orgrimmar, after chatting with Pip briefly. They had returned from her journey into the spirit world to find her animal guide. Both appeared to be in a much improved mood.

Protector and Champion

There is a difference between these two roles, and I have given both much thought of late with regard to proper behavior. It is important to know what differentiates the two in order to avoid misapplication.

A protector can be temporary and platonic. They offer their arms or imposing presence to someone who is vulnerable, in danger, or requiring assistance.

For example, when Anannia was having her temporal displacement difficulty and Vic offered to transport her across continent, I accompanied them to ensure that he was polite. Or Glenshadow, when he became separated from the group during the boar hunt, I went back to inform him of the group’s safety. He does not require physical reinforcement. This role is most often utilized, though, when near the ladies that carry tiny ones.

A champion is a protector that embraces all responsibility for their charge, personally and often, permanently. They offer not only arms and guidance, but also comfort. They see to all of their charge’s needs with attentiveness, diligence, and affection. When there is danger or distress, immediately they present counsel, or their strength to nullify the threat. Even unto death.

The ideal of the champion appeals to me greatly. It is not something that is offered frivolously, nor should it be offered at all if the person is not capable, or the charge unworthy.

Little White Cat

Some months ago, Vivvienne crafted a stuffed animal object for me, a white cat with black nose and golden eyes. She had constructed something similar for one of Whiteclaw’s children. I was impressed and also desired one. He assisted by making the request on my behalf.

Yesterday, she inquired as to the wear on it, in case it needed repair. I informed her that the cat was no longer inanimate. It is a living kitten. It has, in fact, waged war on my toes on several occasions and steals my leather gloves to hide away beneath the furniture. D.A. intervenes whenever I become agitated with it. The blasted thing knows how to absolve itself of all wrongdoing with one appealing expression.

Despite its bad manners, I am still very pleased to have it, and it seemed that Vivvienne was not upset with the strange news. I cannot describe adequately how it occurred because I do not understand the magic.

Update #2

I have been absent from Orgrimmar these last few days due to a few projects. The most intensive of which is the carriage. Repairs progress rather well, although there are still several modifications that may take longer to complete.  Miss Hackwrench offered to make the vehicle amphibious. But this is not necessary, and the project must be finished well before Winter’s Veil.

When I was last in Orgrimmar, one of the male members of the Tribe, an Elf named Scynthe stopped by. He apologized for his rather oblivious behavior when all of us were seated beneath the tree. Or rather, for the  tendency to not acknowledge any individual other than the object of his interest. I am curious whether this realization improves his manners. He also introduced his little daughter, whom he tried to give me to hold and I refused. She appeared younger than Rhiaden.


Soon I will try to meet with Anannia to chat. She stated in a letter that she had some kind of gift to bestow, although I confess I expect that she will not remember writing this. I sent her a few edible items, as I have for Vivvienne many times now.


One last note: If a carriage can be made amphibious, can it also be made to sled?

Home

The Regent requested that Fizcrank and I accompany her to view several ruins in Ashenvale. During the journey, she mentioned that both Fiz and I were welcome to make our homes in Piki’alo, the place occupied by the Tribe.


I have no plans to accept the offer.  However, it did cause me to think on what a home is. And what it is not. The places I have lived in before were not. In Tirisfal, there were no well-wishes when I returned from a difficult labor. Maag was the only one who seemed happy to see me return alive. In Felwood, there was no pride and reward for creating a living space out of hard work. The place existed already. And it belonged to the the forest, which it made very clear.


But when I step into this house, and D.A. descends the steps to greet me, it is good. This place is where my rest is. Where the hearth burns merrily on a cold night. Where I hear the words: "Welcome home."


For this, I am truly thankful. And for my friends, who welcome me to the tree, and into their lives. Thank you.

Priorities

I write out of concern for Urukha. She has recently moved herself out of Piki’alo and into Winterspring to be with Pip. Pip was there to eradicate a demonic aggressor, and was left with over two dozen orphan children – she calls them ‘tuskers’ in her care.

Urukha willingly left their Tribal lodging to assist with the process of restoring the orphanage. While I understand the need to protect and provide for the helpless, it is a great burden that Pip carries, and one individual has only so much strength and energy to give.

The other evening I attempted to express my concerns, but was met with the stalwart resolution of Uru’s love for her mate. I do understand this.

Letter to Great-father Winter

Good morning, journal.

Last night D.A. informed me that I was required to write a letter to Great-father Winter. Before a few days ago, I did not know that there was such an individual in the world, who would give presents to anyone. Never have I observed Winter’s Veil, or understood what it involved, or received a gift for it.

Apparently, I have little skill at writing a letter like this. D.A. guided me like a General, instructing and critiquing my words with great confidence. I did my best and deferred to their wisdom, as I know of no one more adept at persuasion.

This was the result:

Dear Great-father Winter,

This Winter’s Veil, I would like to meet you when 

you come. I enjoy giving presents to others, myself.  

I am looking forward to the holiday, and celebrating 

it for the first time!

I would like a sword, two-handed, with a strong blade 

and sturdy grip. However, if none are available, all 

I wish for is a chance to see you, and for those I love 

to be happy.

Thank you for reading my letter, and happy Winter's 

Veil.

Regards,

Annjia

Nemeiah

She is a Forsaken, though is not officially in the priesthood of the Light. A timid creature, her speech hesitates at times, and she often will call me “Miss,” rather than by my name. I prefer to be called Annjia, and she is making attempts to change her habit.

Several months ago she hired me to help find her mother’s violin in the ruins of Stratholme. I protected her as we traveled to her old home, but unfortunately the precious instrument had been shattered long ago.  As the violin was not found intact, I did not accept payment. We have been on good terms since.

She was engaged for a time to another Forsaken, but he abandoned her to pursue his duties in war. The gentle priestess became reticent and subdued, until a new operation came to Orgrimmar. There is a man, who calls himself a Bishop, overseeing the rejuvenation of Tyr’s Hand in the Eastern Plaguelands. There is an abbey with a library there, and her perspective has improved measurably since she joined, under the banner of the Argent Crusade.

Whenever she heals with the Light, she receives damage and pain for some days after. She seems to find the Shadow abhorrent. For this reason, I greatly desire to introduce her to Father Sunspeaker, as he knows of mending with Shadow, and I believe she could benefit from conversing with him. 

Aura of Death

Several days ago, Anannia requested that I be present when she gives birth to her tiny one. I was quite anxious and abruptly refused.  She reacted with disappointment, as it was not a small offer for her to make.

Her reasoning was that my “aura of death,” as she called it would be good luck when combined with the pure life force associated with her child. The opposing powers of life and death at such a moment, she thought, would create “amazing results.” My counter was that for a desirable result, the strength of death and life would need to be balanced. Between a Knight and a tiny one, there is no balance. 

This is not the first time she has mentioned an aura about me. Although the last description included sunshine and rain, oddly.

Regardless, she seemed to accept the argument after a while, and agreed that it would be best for me to stay away at the birth. Perhaps there is some other way that I can assist.

Work Begins

Last night I brought a small group to the broken carriage in Tirisfal. Miss Sashali Hackwrench, a goblin with an eager disposition agreed to foreman the operation. Assisting her are Aomaho (at Mal’valen’s request), and their supplier, Rux. Sunspeaker accompanied them.

There was a bit of confusion when the topic of compensation arose. Aomaho unexpectedly offered to work for no reward. This upset Miss Hackwrench, who had assumed that the other goblin was a competitor, and not a co-worker. She lamented that she could not offer a price lower than free. I assured her that she would be paid for her work, independent of the others. They have three weeks to complete it.

The barn containing the carriage stands on land that Viere used to own. I consider it mine now, and gave permission for them to work on it at any hour there regardless of my presence. It is also where I vanquished Shadowstep. I enjoy the significance.

Conversations

I enjoy making conversation, and believe that I am fairly skilled at it. It is very much like combat. There are attacks, dodges, re-directs and all manner of maneuvers in order to accomplish your goal.

The goal is not always to defeat your opponent, but often to bring pleasure to both. Or if you desire, limiting the amount of sensitive information you reveal, while obtaining as much as possible from them.

Not all enter into conversation with finely tuned weapons. One of the most skilled ‘opponents’ I have ever encountered is Anannia. As I told her last night, speaking to her is like fencing with someone that breaks all of the rules. It is challenging, and I frequently lose. But I enjoy it even if I am confused. She also made a request of me, which I may write of at another time.

Oh, and there may be another lady in the Tribe that is pregnant. If she is, she may not be aware, so I am hopeful that the Regent will explain it to her. Gently.

Paired

So many of my acquaintance are paired, or pursue romantic entanglements actively. There is a new pair that I learned of a few days ago following Vindy and Branam's wedding, and while I was surprised, I am not displeased. 

Of those I know, there are Pip and Urukha, Vindy and Branam, Decie and Leah, Do’xian and that strange Forsaken Viktor, Sunspeaker and Aomaho, Nicken and Khavee, Coilla and Urafang, the Darkrider and the Holy One. And now this new one, where each are each formidable in their own respect.

There are also those that parted recently. Vivvienne and Talil, confirmed by his pronounced absence and by her private words. Pip and Chopsie, Nemeiah and her betrothed. And Viere and Mirtai, although that was only because of his demise.

And there are those that are missing their partner and are in doubt. Birodil and Seako, Anannia and her beau; I believe his name is Matherion if I overheard correctly. There are other rumblings that I hear among those that seem happy.

It is no wonder that so much energy is required simply to keep current on all the changes, and there are some individuals that do nothing but monitor it.

Oh, and D.A. and me. But you should have known that already, journal.

Little Tree

Good morning, journal.

The apple seedling that I pilfered from the orchard in Elwynn is still alive. This is noteworthy because I am not designed to nurture, and I am concerned that any delicate life in my vicinity is susceptible to my unnatural presence. Mirtai is assisting with its care as well.

I have observed the sapling for any sign of disease or other injury as a result of contact with me. There does not appear to be any, though it is smaller than I thought it should be. I intend to give the tree as a gift soon, to those that would care for it better. In the meantime, I have given thought to acquiring a younger sibling for it. For a bit more practice.

Doxian

The other day this interesting little troll posted half a dozen books to me. We have met on several occasions and discussed various things, including an appreciation of literature, or a proclivity to acquire it.

We also seem to share a disability with regard to humor. He believes that many things are funny when society does not, and I often do not understand the joke in the first place. We do not, however, share an interest in explosive material. He has quite a fancy for it.

He also took the leisure to verbally send down a paladin some weeks ago, which I approved of.  I later punched that paladin in the face for being weak. Doxian also advised that the Forsaken that insulted me the other day while conversing with Vindy, Viktor, was under his protection, and that I should avoid damaging him when irritated.

The books he sent are quite welcome, as D.A. enjoys settling for the evening by the fireplace with one in lap. Usually I only sit and think, but if I dedicate myself to being still, I may also find pleasure in this sedentary past-time. 

Renewal

Yesterday was not as bad as I feared. I spent the morning and afternoon hours hunting, but the vigorous activity did not shield me from unpleasant memories.

When I returned home, D.A. was waiting and saw to my comfort. We spoke for a time, and our emotions flowed deep. I confessed my doubts, anger and sorrow, and in return I received kindness, compassion and wisdom. Perhaps it is not my fault that I am this way: undead and corrupted, but there is no vengeance to take from a dead man. I can only live in defiance of his wishes by seeking happiness.

After we spoke and the mood lightened, my D.A. gave me a gift. I do not receive many of these, as usually I prefer to give them. It was appreciated.

Viere

Viere is   was

My relationship with Viere was complicated. I usually describe it to others as though it was nothing unusual, and that we separated due to any differences that would normally split a couple. The genuine circumstances are difficult, and painful to explain.

He was a warlock. He had light hair and pale skin, and was quite handsome. But beneath his Elvish exterior he concealed that he was decaying, physically and morally. I suppose he could have been called a Forsaken, but all of the potions, spells and other tactics he used to preserve himself were used to great effect.

What he required most, though, was the need to feel alive. Wary of pain, any sensation that pleased him, he sought. Any tome or item that increased his power, he demanded. Anything that he desired, he received. All of this without regard for my needs or wishes. He was a terrible, selfish man. And I suffered with him for two long years.

Every time I set foot in Tirisfal, or today because it is today, I think of him.

Also ---- Happy birthday, Annjia.

Lifemating Speech

As Urukha’s second at her lifemating ceremony, it is custom that I provide a short speech. I have thought on this for some time now and am not any closer to deciding what to say.

Is the speech intended to be funny? Moving? Inspirational? Certainly I have knowledge of all of these with the huntress, and with Pip as well. For example, Pip and I wrote out our lessons in pudding the day she learned to read.  But should I include Pip, or only speak of Urukha?

This task makes me anxious. I hope I will not disappoint.

Mal'valen Sunspeaker

Father Sunspeaker is a Forsaken in the priesthood of the Light. When I first encountered him, he was adorned in white and gold with ceremonial wings on his shoulders. I may have been somewhat terse with him, given my usual reserve surrounding Light-flingers.

Mal’valen is self-effacing in personality, with an empathetic gaze. He spoke eagerly when asked questions regarding his beliefs, offered assistance when I posted for the carriage project, and displayed his ability to read the ‘aura’ of other individuals. He claims that his vision is poor.

He also demonstrated that he is familiar with the darker applications of power. Of course I approved of this, as D.A. studies the same magic. To this end, I requested that he put to paper some of his research and knowledge of the Shadow, to augment the robust collection of literature I have acquired.

Of his family, he has a brother named Veladrys, and a husband (that is his term) named Aomaho. The brother is a rather large and temperamental elf. I understand that Veladrys and Mal’valen are half-breeds, and I assume the second half is human. The brother has at least one small child, Rhiaden, who displays an unnerving fascination with undead. He did not fear me at all.

Good Manners

There are times that I wonder if I am the only person in all of bloody Orgrimmar that knows any manners. Or rather, knows the proper way that a female should be addressed and treated in a public setting.

I also believe that it does not matter if one descends from a race reputed to be ‘savage,’ and the cultural norms vary. There is no excuse for lack of courtesy.

If she wishes to speak, be attentive, and do not interrupt her with your self-centered anecdotes.

If she wishes to sit, wait until she is settled before seating yourself.

If she steps to a door, open it and hold it for her before crossing through.

If she shivers with cold or is otherwise stressed, offer your cloak or any other assistance to improve her comfort.

A lady expects these behaviors. Or rather, she should if there were enough men in the world who understood basic civility. I must sound dreadfully old-fashioned and even archaic with these views. But as I value responsibility, so too do I value chivalry.

Looking Back

Nightmares again.

In a few days, four to be precise, it will be three years since I was raised from death. It is the nearest thing that I have to a conventional birthdate. I do not know the true day or year of my birth.

I will not tell anyone, except for D.A., of that day’s significance because I do not desire the attention. Others celebrate their birthday with raucous or family-filled affairs, but I see no reason, and feel no compulsion to glorify this event. It was not a good day. 

There are other days, marking happier occasions throughout the year. These will warrant merrymaking.

Mouse and Sunflower

About a week ago I spoke with Decie and Leahndri in Orgrimmar. Decie’s nickname is Sunflower, because of how enraptured she is with Leah, her lover. Whenever Leah, or Mouse as I call her, is present, Decie orients toward her like a sunflower to the sun. Leah is called Mouse because she is a timid, but occasionally shrewd individual.

I had not seen either of them in some time. It sounds as though they both are well, but busy. They have both met D.A. in person, but only the once, and I do not expect them to ever meet again.  

During their long absence I thought of the nature of our acquaintance, and determined that Leah and Decie are much more concerned with acquiring social information than any truly intellectual exchange. Initially with the Regent I was concerned that she was the same, but she is not.

It was Mouse that called me a puzzle. I suppose I am still friendly with both of them, though I tired of their prying into my personal affairs. I must admit that it was fun for a time to prolong their curiosity by not revealing anything.

Vindy and Branam

I had a mostly pleasant conversation with Vindy the other night. She is a small Elven woman, an initiate of the Tribe, with aspirations to be an Arch Magistrix. She works diligently and has a friendly demeanor.

Recently, she became ill after testing a home-made potion intended to protect my sensitive vision when it is bright. She was cured by Jeh’k, the Frog Venom Troll, but was thoroughly soaked with water during the process. I offered her my cloak for warmth and she later returned it, repaired.

She told more of her engagement with Branam, an Orc warrior. I did ask a few questions regarding their relationship, to see if there was anything that warranted attention. I have a mild concern, as in public he is quiet, but privately he may be violent. I did not express this, though. I require a bit more observation. She and I joked a bit, and she teased that if she would consider me if she was ever inclined toward a woman. Wishing to dissuade this, I informed her that I was paired.

No other in the Tribe has expressed any interest in learning of my situation. No sooner had I stated it, though, than we were interrupted by a rude Forsaken, who appeared to be with Do’xian. On my account we changed locations and were joined by Branam, but once again were interrupted. A woman was regaling her drinking partner with tales of when she was a slave. I grew agitated again, and Vindy confronted the girl about speaking so openly, worried that I had been offended.

I should learn to hide my discomfort completely, to not disturb others.

Day of the Dead

Several days ago, Urukha took me to see where her family farm once stood, and where her parents and siblings are buried. She told me the story of the place.

The remarkable part of this story is how Urukha blamed herself for what occurred. And that she, with Pip’s assistance, gradually accepted what had happened.  For all the rough and crude edges of the Horde, I have seen more tears from Urukha than any other individual, Orc or no, in my public acquaintance. She possesses a great capacity to endure emotion, even when those sentiments are not pleasant.

Yet despite these unfortunate events, I am envious of both her memories and her self-reconciliation. In the wake of her story I thought of my own ‘family,’ and its destruction. Viere’s death was not of my direct doing, but my departure inspired him to take ever more extreme risks. If I had stayed, would he still live? Could he have changed?

I do not think so.

Project

While in the north, I searched for a particular item I covet. Unlike the small parcels I usually hunt for, this is quite large, and in pieces. I went to the ruined kingdom of Gilneas and located the shattered remnants of a carriage.

It took me the last few days to move all of the parts to a secluded location in Tirisfal Glades. I am not entirely comfortable with the region, but it will suffice. Having no experience with this sort of assembly, I require assistance in order to restore it.

Thus I post this on the notice board in Orgrimmar:

Seeking skilled craftsman: blacksmith/engineer

Experience with vehicles and animals preferred

Compensation offered

-Please send all inquiries to “Annjia” via mail

Home Again

Good evening, journal.

My routine has returned to normal. I have come home and my venture to the north was partially successful. I will write more of it later, as I will need to advertise for some assistance. 

Busy

Good morning, journal.

Urukha shared an emotional, but powerful story of herself yesterday. I am still thinking of its implications, so will not write of the details yet. We then honored her family.

I may be absent from your pages for the next few days as I take care of business in the north of the continent. I will give more details of the venture if I am successful. While I will still return home for the evening, I anticipate that my attention and energies will be otherwise occupied with personal pursuits.

----On that topic, I hear the bath running. Excuse me.

Hallow's End

Yesterday was Hallow’s End. I procured candy and masks and brought them home to share with those in my house. I confess that I enjoyed hunting for the treats, which I believe is the purpose. The masks did not garner as much interest, but the sweets certainly did.

In fact, it was the first time that Mirtai had tasted chocolate. She seemed to enjoy it, as I do. 

Pip reappeared in Orgrimmar with Urukha and we were able to discuss her situation a bit more. When she mentioned the runeblade, I became extremely anxious and eventually needed to move away from the conversation.

How appropriate that for the first time in months, on Hallow's End, I had nightmares.