Thanks for tuning back in, faithful readers and intrepid adventurers. Now that PAX East 2011 is over, the articles are mostly published, and all the geek dust has settled (momentarily, of course), I return to the regularly scheduled programming of the two-year D&D campaign. Yulin and Tyghe just established the birth of the Baron’s daughter and implicitly refer to a vague darkness surrounding the events of her birth and her father, General Vaan De Marco. Both friends speculate on this and its connection to the coming uneasiness. Part III here details the conclusion of their conversation and the end of the first part of the prelude.
PRELUDE, Chapter 02: Things to Come
(continued…)
“And we’re sure he’s turned? We’re certain he will return and try to bring… her… into this world?”
“Without a doubt.”
“I can’t imagine what that place is like. The Barony-General, living in the Shadowfell. In audience with… with… her. Preposterous.”
“It’s the only way, Harlous. I don’t know about you but I don’t want to end up a mindless ghoul of Orcus’.” Tyghe leaned back in, dragging Yulin closer with his genuine severity. “Furthermore, don’t ever let my life — my choices — make you think that I’m any less devoted to this cause. We’re two sides of the same coin, friend. You’ve always been okay being hated.” Tyghe sat back in his seat and turned his head to the sky. “Please don’t let your indifference destroy you.”
“My indifference,” began Yulin, “has kept me alive. And as for being hated, someone has to do the dirty work of maintaining balance. I don’t love my god because he is a god, Josias. I love him because he knows he’s a god… and doesn’t interfere.” Tyghe looked back at his friend again, this time with a modicum of deference. “I still can’t figure out how you know they’re up there but refuse to acknowledge their interference. If all this ends the way the repetitions of history predict, then my god — may he shine on us eternally, will be waiting at the door, ready to walk with me into the next life. Not as me. That is why my stomach turns at the thought of the General’s ‘plan.’ That and the fact that it’s totally feasible in the world of the divine. So, as before, save your agnostic pleas for those with less respect for the will of the gods.”
Chair leg scrapes and utensil clinks once again filled the sounds in the air. Tyghe and Yulin sat opposite one another on the portico of the Halfmoon Inn, neither touching their food nor drinking their beverages. Tyghe felt pity for his friend, and Yulin felt nothing for his. Arcane pathos heightened one man’s sentiment; pious zealotry deadened the other’s.
“I guess then we should return to our homes and prepare,” began Tyghe.
“Indeed. You’ve prepped your apprentice, yes?”
“Yes. Allistair is more than capable to handle affairs in the Hall whenever I… depart.”
“Does he know he is also marked?”
“A life in the Seven-Pillared Hall comes with a target on one’s back. He knows.”
“Give him my best.”
“I shall.”
Tyghe extended his hand, and Yulin clasped his hand to Tyghe’s forearm. Yulin began to get up, while Tyghe sat back in his seat once more.
“You’re not going back immediately?”
“No. I think I’m going to stay for a few more and watch the sunset. Don’t get to see that too often in the Hall.”
Yulin nodded, turned around, and began to walk away.
“You know,” said Yulin, his back still to Tyghe and his head slightly cocked to the left, “I may be fine being hated. But I’ve never hated you. Not even after what you did. Something tells me I need to say that to you now.” Not even waiting for a response, Yulin walked away with purpose.
“Thanks,” responded Tyghe under his breath. He looked up at the golden orb sun setting deep within the western horizon. “I hope you’re with us this time.”
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All images are copyright of the artists.
All Dungeons & Dragons references and images are copyright of Wizards of the Coast, LLC.
Narrative material and story are copyright of Robert C. Beshere.