A Festive Ball

Upon my return, I found an invitation to a gathering, from Westlynn. I learned from Urukha that she is no longer our Regent, and had left to pursue other interests. She is still family to me, and I was happy to receive this letter. Unfortunately, the Regent Westlynn could not come to this gathering; I would learn later from Annjia that Westlynn's blood sister was ill.

The gathering was pleasant despite this, and that almost everyone at this "Festi-ball" was elven. I spent much of the night trading stories with a taunka bull of the Argent Crusade, and trying to learn more about the Warchief and Pandaria through discussion with a troll, who appeared to have been a friend of the taunka. I had tried new foods last night; I believe the feast offered to us was food prepared in Pandaren ways. It was tasty, and unlike anything I have had before. As the night came to a close, we were asked to prepare Winter Veil stories, and there was an exchange of gifts. It was clear that the gathering did not expect larger guests, such as myself or the taunka. I was unable to pour a cup of tea for myself, as the cup was much to small and it slipped from my fingers. During the gift exchange, I was given a robe meant for an elf. Fortunately, the troll would give me a flask to pour the tea into, and one of the other guests offered to trade to me her silkworm in exchange for the robes.

The taunka had asked me at one time, if the feast of Winter Veil was a celebration rooted in my culture. I had told him that he was correct. The feast is held each year to welcome the coming of life anew. The lands sleep under a blanket of snow and ice, and in this time we are able to consider and give thanks for what we have gained, lost, or still hold dear. He then joked that, if his people knew of this holiday, perhaps every day would be a celebration of Winter Veil.

The Wedding

Last night was brother Westel's wedding. Unfortunately, I had returned home a few hours before the ceremony and slept through it; I am a fool.

I was brought to the celebration regardless, and a good time was had by all, I believe. Brother Mukwa had fallen down while dancing and seemed to have harmed himself, but I saw he was in good spirits. I also saw brother Qua'nah, and I believe the Regent was there; I did not know they had returned to us! Westel and Astoreth approached me a few times during the dance. I feared they would have been cross that I was not at the ceremony, however, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that they were honored by my presence nonetheless.

The tribe, and friends of Astoreth and Westel spent most of the night dancing. When the music ended, the remaining guests presented gifts to them. Zau'tal gave to them a pair of small raptors, a friend of theirs is sending them a large collection of wine, and Rhezzaka gave them some fish she had caught while in Northrend. I had no material gift for them, so I offered An'she's blessing instead, which they gladly accepted, and I relayed my best wishes and prayers for them before departing for the night.

I look around and see so many meeting their mates. I am happy for them. But with this, and other recent events, I wonder when I will find love of my own.

Make It Stop

She does not stop. I see her amongst the crowds in the city, in the distance as I travel a path, sometimes right next to me when I turn around. Sometimes she is my mother. Sometimes she is Theran. Sometimes she is the Regent, Urukha, Pipiltin, Ferak, or others in the tribe. She appears in my dreams. Always staring, sometimes speaking to remind me of my failures. I have not rested well for three nights.

Ferak has experienced similar things. I hope he is not as worn as me. The tribe works to find an answer to this problem. I pray for strength, and for the others to quickly find the answer. I am afraid I may not last much longer...

A Chapter Begins

It has been about a week since I have returned to the tribe after wandering away in my sleep. Pipiltin had given me a new talisman to replace my lost one, Annjia was kind enough to bring me back to our home so I could gather my things I did not bring to the club, and Urukha and the Regent have offered me new clothing to replace what I have lost. Uwharrie had even dug up a tabard for me to wear in place of my missing vest. I personally prefer to wear little, or nothing; the feel of An'she's light on an uncovered body during the day is a welcome feeling, but I am aware that most others would rather I respect a certain decency, and cover myself when I am among others in a city, or camp. I do not mind.

Much has happened in my absence; the cause of illness besetting the tribe was found out, as well as a cure. I am worried for everyone that is ill, and would like to help however I can. I must speak with Pipiltin about joining an expedition to find the materials for treatment.

I have been seeing unclear images from a dream I believe I had the night I wandered off. It is bothering me... there are images that give me a happy feeling when they flash in my eye, but a few unsettle me. I had encountered Zelevia a few nights ago, and asked her if she might be able to aid me in remembering these images in greater detail, perhaps even remembering the dream from which they came from. She agreed to meet with me at a later time, as she was preoccupied. Until then, I have purchased this journal as a means for exploring my thoughts.

I am blessed to be surrounded by so many that are willing to lend me their aid. May the Earth Mother protect them, and allow me to return these deeds however I can.