journal of Aiauta

The long winter is over and spring once again brings new life to Ansalon. I find plentiful food and include some edible wild flowers to my diet. Master Bartrane often picks them out of the food I bring him. I wonder if humans can eat them. They should be able too, I think being that I am using mostly human books for my references for this foreign climate.
     When I am at school I help Master Bartrane with classes and encouraging his few other students. I don’t really know how much I help, but it does feel wonderful to help in other ways other than couriering and making potions. I know this tower test is near so I have decided to do something special for Master Bartrane for getting me through this and accepting me as a student even though he need not have.
    My people are strong in magic and know of many ways to use magic the towers would not know of. We do not worship the gods and have not statues or temples dedicated to them. Most of our wounds are healed through herbal magic however we do know other magic to heal with. Only one person can perform this form of magic the leader of the village, and only when she finds it absolutely necessary. Mother describes it as necromantic in nature and we hate to use the magic of the soul for anything knowing that it comes from an evil place.
     So now I open my other spell book the one that is written in a magical variant of my peoples’ language and make a scroll for Master Bartrane. In time he may be able to decipher the scroll and perhaps learn the spell we call ‘From You to Me.’  The spell heals the subject that it is cast upon and passes the injury or sickness to the caster. From there the caster incurs ailment in a lesser form. They will heal quicker than the subject would on his or her own. The spell has extremely limited use and it is necromancy so is inherently evil in nature. There are very few times when it is needed but it is useful under extreme circumstances when herbal magic just will not work.
    I have only seen mother use this once in my lifetime but being next in line I have it with other spells of my people in this spell book.
    The second thing I have found necessary to write down is an odd encounter I almost had but avoided on the road. Master Bartrane had set me to Haven again. That is the third time I have had to bring papers or reagents to the mage shop in the city.
     Along the way just south of Solace there is a bridge with river traffic that often brings supplies to the city. I have seen a small encampment there but never really took notice of it. This time I did. As I approached and got a good look at the two merchant tents there I saw the hideous creature beside one of the tents. I backed away.
    Once out of eyesight I scouted the area noticing a small cliff above the two merchant tents. Dawning my cloak of hiding I hide and slowly worked my way to the high side of the cliff. I got down on my belly and watched the creature. It was standing in front of one tent while a minotaur stood beside the other.
    The creature was beastly with gangly arms and legs thick as tree trunks. Its face looked diseased and pushed in. I knew in my heart what it was though this particular creature looked almost half human in appearance. It so disturbed me and gave me knots in my stomach
    I knew I had to stay put. Stay calm. I stayed studying every fiber of his features and face while he bantered with his horned companion. I steeled myself until the sun hit the horizon satisfied that I could face one of these demons if ever I were to engage one. I then crept slowly back making my way to the tree city satisfied that I could hold myself steady if or when the time comes.

    Aiauta goes up to her room and carefully locks the door. She's been teaching Master Bartrane classes to the few other students while he's been sick. With her help he has gained ground and should be up and about very soon. She can continue her journeys as his courier and magical seamstress.
    She undresses and stands before the mirror. Mirrors are expensive and rare things in the human world yet when she first came here Bartrane made sure she was bunked in this very room with one of only two mirrors in the tower. The other being his personal mirror he uses for his own arcane research. She wonders about it. Why would he insist the only other student room with a mirror for her. Fear wells up for a moment: She pushes it away. Just kindness, she thinks to herself. The Master if anything else is the kindest human she has ever known.
    For the first time in over six months Aiauta feels safe enough to relax all the muscles in her body. She tilts the large mirror ever so slightly and looks at herself. Her lazy looking eyes behold her figure in apparent disinterest and apathy. She knows its far from the truth. It's just looks that way. Her hips are maturing. It worries her. She has only been in the human world for two years. She should have at least another twenty before it starts.
    Her mission as a seeker is on track. While delivering letters and magic supplies to other arcane professionals, and selling her wares in markets she has been able to pick up everything from gossip to relevant things going on in all the realms from Palanthos to Tarsis even as it puts a strain on her need to be alone most of the time. People tire her quickly yet she has come up with the fortitude to bear their presence without letting them know her discomfort.  She is well known to the merchant enclaves who readily take in her magical clothes which now include cloaks, hats, belts and other things. In the meantime they tell her of the happenings in their various cities.
    It's almost as if the Master knew her need to explore the world without knowing why. Again she worries. Her parents happy in their small village had told her once the humans only use others for their own devices then throw them away once their usefulness is gone. Aiauta now being around humans for a long time knows that sometimes that is true; however sometimes it is not. Or is she deceiving herself.
    Other students have moved on. They have taken the test at the tower and have moved on. She is still here. Is Bartrane just using her. She has felt that she has been ready for more than a year now. Yet when the subject comes up he defects her attention somewhere else. Why would he do that? Is he using her because she has become competent at being his assistant, courier, herbalist?
    Taking a brush she runs it through her curly hair admiring her form if only for a few moments before resting. It has been a long day and she needs the rest. She gets the kinks out then strangely she pulls all the threads out of the brush and carefully burns them in the lantern. Making sure not one is left that someone can see.
    There is so much danger in becoming a seeker. She was taught every precaution to take so that no one would question. She hates it. She would be free of this mission if not for her parents pleading. The few families that enjoy life in the valley must know what goes on in the rest of the world so that they may be able to react to any danger. That is the purpose of the seekers every fifty years or so, sent out know what goes on in the rest of Ansolon.
     Still she can see the disappointment in her eyes of not being about to go on pursue her job on her terms instead of having to be chained to the tower of arcane until Bartrane says that she is ready for the tower test. Again she questions the masters intent and how conveniently all her needs have been fulfilled from the mirror to the need to speak and observe the world fall into her lap when she met the master of the school.
    There is a knock at the door. Aiauta runs over and puts her back to it holding the door closed even while locked. She flexes her muscles in just the right way before responding, "I'm busy with my own studies who is it?"
    A weak voice comes through the door, "It's Sally, Aiauta. There's a man down in the classroom here to see you."
    Aiauta wonders at this for there was never a time when she has had a visitor at the school. She asks, "What does he look like?"
    "He looks like a mage with strange symbols on his robe. I've never seen them before but the robe is white with green."
    Could it be that Master Bartrane has called another to guide her to the tower. That would be the most wonderful thing. Aiauta gets excited and dresses in her traveling clothes then stops. She knows she must always make sure to cover herself. She tilts the mirror and looks at her face. Knowing that everything will be alright she nods, unlocks the door and opens it. Sally is standing there waiting. Aiauta smiles, "Thank you so much. Maybe Master Bartrane thinks I'm finally ready."
    The young human girl laughs, "Well if so good luck to you. I'll miss you in the classroom if you are going there."
    "I think if I go I will also return. Master Bartrane will need the help coping with you and your classmates."
    Sally waves and laughs as Aiauta goes threw the doorway and down the stairs.
    Aiauta rushes down the stairs and goes into the hall between the statue and the classroom. One look inside and she slides to the side of the doorway into the classroom hiding herself in shadow. It isn't a tower mage at all its the human she met in the village Mu’awiyah. Why in all the world would he be here. Her parents would be infuriated if they know he had found her or did they send him here for some unknown purpose.
    She has to decide whether to leave or stay and face him. Mother and Counsel may have an important message for her yet why would he be here if it were otherwise. Her heart skips a beat then settles down. She has made the decision. She straightens her hat and walks into the classroom.
    Master Bartrane is quietly talking with the man as she enters. She greets him, "Master Bartrane, You should be resting to gain your strength. I did not work so hard for a relapse."
    Bartrane smiles, "Well, good evening to you too Aiauta. I am fine. I needed to know why a mage I have never heard of before would be coming to the school to see my finest student. Mu’awiyah tells me he's...…."
    The olive skinned man cuts him off, "A friend of the family."
    Bartrane looks at the man suspiciously and then to her questioningly.
    She purses her lips and answers, "Mu'awiyah is known to the family, yes. Though I wonder why he is here?"
    Bartrane looks at the other, "I have just visited Aiauta's village. Knowing that she is here I decided to make the trip to see the cities wonders. I see you have a fine school sir. It is impressive. I hope her studies are measuring up to her parents wishes? Other than that since I and her are both here I had hoped that she could be of service as a guide so that I may see this fair city's splendors."
    Aiauta isn't happy with this ghost from her near past showing up and its apparent in her eyes yet she states, "If Mu'awiyah needs a guide I will do it with your permission, master."
    Bartrane takes an unusually long time to reply measuring both his student and this stranger, "Yes you may guide him since you apparently know him Aiauta. There is however a condition. I want you to wear one of your light gowns and stay in the city proper."
    Aiauta curtsies without comment and goes upstairs. She puts one of her gowns on and comes back down. She escorts Mu’awiyah out of the building and into the city. As they walk around Caergoth he strikes up a conversation, "How are your studies going?"
    "My studies are going well. Why are you here? Do Mother and Father have a message?"
    "No message. I came here on my own. I'm here because the first time I saw you I knew you were different from the other elves."
    "Excuse me?"
    He looks up at Solinari, "Your white moon is full can you hear it?"
    "You are avoiding my question Why are you here?"
    "Most of the elves in your village they live their lives quietly wanting only to be alone to study their magic and live a long and peaceful life. From the first time I saw your eyes I knew you had the wanderlust of a kender buried inside of you. Why did your mother send you out to seek if not for that very reason, Aiauta. Let's just say I like to keep track of interesting people especially beautiful maidens who are very talented in magic."
    "You assume too much, Mu'awiyah."
    "Now its my turn, You have not answered my question. Do you hear it?"
    Aiauta purses her lips, "Yes I hear it. I was taught to ignore it. I have responsibilities if Mother dies. I will become Transmuter and be the next leader of the village. I hope never to have to do that though."
    "Nor do I, Aiauta I have a proposition for you."
    Aiauta gets angry and frustrated not only by the rhythms of her heart but by the forwardness of the human, "If you know my people so well then you know that I am bonded with another. You would not like me when my time has come. I would kill a weak human as many a woman of my village have done so before with our own people. You would not understand the strength of my bond and a human would not have the strength to withstand me."
    Mu’awiyah's face turns beet red and he laughs, "Not that kind of proposition, My lady. I have the highest respect for the village elves and their bonds. I don't want to be anywhere near you when you have your time. its not that kind of proposition.
    Let me ask you. What will you do after the bond is broken. You will need help. I can teach you so much more than the schools of the arcane can, even the towers. You will be burdened and alone. What will you do? What I offer is guidance. I can teach you so much more than what you know now."
    "By that time I will be back in my village living like I have for the last hundred years."
    "All I ask, Aiauta is that you think about it. I needs must go back home, soon. It is a long journey. I will come back after several years to see how you are doing. I must say though I find you interesting and a promising student. Ah yes, We have circled the city and have returned to the school. It's time for me to go. Adieu my lady and as I have said think about what I have said. goodnight and well met to you."
    Ma'awiyah traces glowing gold symbols in the air around him. They start to move around his body and he disappears. leaving Aiauta wondering who the human really is."

There is a hidden glade close to Caergoth that many apprentice mage practice: just past the eastern gate behind the adventurers camp. In the center of the glade within a thaumaturgic circle stands a young woman with an old worn tome in her hands. She bears the resemblance of a dark skinned qualinesti elf with blonde hair and short stature.
    The young woman starts to read an incantation from the pages of the old tome. It is a complex series of invocations that takes some time to recite. As she gets to the middle of her reading she notices a form just at the edge of the circle. It disrupts her concentration. The spell is broken. She sighs and looks in the forms direction. It is Master Bartrane a White Robe archmagi from the towers arcane. She quickly stores the book inside the folds of her robe and walks out of the circle.
    "Good morning, Master Bartrane. How are you feeling?"
    "I'm feeling well at least twenty years younger thanks to your herbal concoctions. Tell me Aiauta how did you come by such knowledge of plants?"
    The young woman smiles, "I don't know I guess it's a gift bestowed from those that watch over us."
    "Ah yes the gods." Bartrane walks along the circle. Aiauta follows him.
    "I've never seen a circle of protection like this, and don't recognize the symbols?"
    "Just village magic, Master Bartrane. it doesn't have the potencies of tower magic. How did you find me? I just needed practice in the old magic and wanted to be away from the school for it."
    "Well I did not send you anywhere and you were missing from the school. You could say I have a knack for finding my students. Especially when they tend to find this hidden glade surrounded by succulent plants that can be picked for dinner. After all when I was an apprentice a very long time ago; I would come here to practice.
    "Of course it is deductive reasoning."
    Bartrane chuckles, "Be that as it may Aiauta. I need to speak to you about some things. There is a tourney this week in Caergoth. I thought it might be a nice place to discuss your development. I have rented a box for us. Go to the school and put something on proper for an apprentice and we will go enjoy the festivities. And in the meantime have a discussion. Besides, I have noticed that you may have some questions of your own regarding your latest venture."
    "Master, There will be many of the populace at the tourney. I would be uncomfortable there."
    "Yes, I know Aiauta. Growing up in a small elven village has its disadvantages as well as its advantages. You need to do this. Do not worry. I will be by your side and you are becoming an accomplished mage yourself. Between the two of us I think we will be able to handles things. You will be safe."
     "I'm not afraid of anyone, I just feel confined when there are too many people around me its not natural."
    "Alright then, back to the tower then to the joust young lady. I paid a pretty good fee so lets not tarry."
   
    The two walk back to the tower, change and meet near the statue of Adana that graces the entranceway as the sun nears its zenith they walk to the tourney grounds. A squire finds them quickly and guides them to their box above the stands. They sit down and watch several jousts before Bartrane starts the conversation, "See it isn't so bad up here away from the crowds. its like its just the two of us."
    Aiauta doesn't say anything. She just nods while looking down at the throng of people milling about the area.
    "You told me about an encounter with one of our black robed brothers? It seemed to disturb you even though you didn't say much about it. I would like to hear more about this if you please."
    "Aiauta wrinkles her brows and her lazy eyes suddenly come to life, "I saw him passing by while watching people go about their daily routines on the balcony of the inn at Solace. I really didn't think much of it until his war hound attacked heckle...….not really attack he was harassing him. I noticed it was not ordinary hound. It was from the infernal places of the night. A hell hound. I threw the shield you taught me to keep it at bay.
    It's master made his presence known and we spoke at length. The black robe appeared to be an elf like me. I did not know that an elf would take up a black robe. What he said disturbed me. Not because of what he said, because I simply don't understand evil or better how someone would willing chose to give into the unconscionable desires and emotions like greed, arrogance, lust for power and trade coin among the many other things that make them the way they are.
    What do you say about this Master Bartrane?"
    "Asking why someone takes the black or follows a path of self-destruction is like asking why the stars fill the heavens at night. There are a thousand, thousand reasons. None which I can fully explain. It just is Aiauta, and know that though you may face them in your ventures always remember that they are brothers and sisters in magic as a whole. They deserve some measure of respect.
    This brings up an interesting question I have of you. How do you truly think people should live and be guided in life?"
    Aiauta takes a very long time to answer. Her eyes shift several times as if thinking intently about Bartrane's question. A full joust takes place while she is thinking about it. When she answers it surprises him, "I think that people should be able to live whatever life they chose as long as they do no harm to another whether that be another person or animal. There are times when you have to end a life but only if that being is dedicated to ending yours."
    "A thoughtful and surprising answer my apprentice. I would not think that you would say such things by the way you always adhere to my wishes and are thoughtful of my needs."
    "Do you think what I said is wrong, Master Bartrane? I think it would be obvious."
    "Remember what I said when we found out you were a transmuter and different from most mages. There is no right or wrong answer here. It's just a different hair color you wear upon your soul. I am somewhat pleased by this but you and I are slightly different on how we see the world and society. I wish to explore this more, Therefore I give you a scenario.
    You see a child in danger. A black robe has him in the center of a pentomic circle. You see in the black robes eyes that he means the kill the child to gain more power from the dark forces that guide him. You read the circles inscriptions and know that if the young one dies it will be confined to the abyss for an eternity of torcher. What would you do?"
    "I would try to save the child."
    "You cannot save the child unless you use dark magic to kill the other mage."
    "I would kill the mage."
    "Why?"
    "The child is a blank slate. The black robe has already made his decision and his desire for power by condemning an innocent is unconscionable in my eyes."
    "Even though it would put a stain on your own soul by using dark magic?"
    "Yes."
    "And what of magic itself, Aiauta what do you think of the use of magic itself."
    "It's strange that you would ask that, master Bartrane. Since I have come here I have often thought about this subject. I grew up in a place were all practiced forms of magic. We don't see it as a means to power or a way to promote our self-interests. It's simply a tool we use much like a hammer or garden hoe.
    It wasn't until I came here and spoke to others and their preoccupation with the power involved in casting that I realized that humans take a very different view of magic than we do. I am guessing that not everyone can use magic and therefore mages become more prominent with the more magic that they can master."
    "Tis a good supposition Aiauta. It is not the whole of it but power and prominence play a good part of why humans take the robes. Those that have the ability to cast in the first place."
    Aiauta suddenly studies the crowd intently looking from individual to individual. While doing so she pulls her hood up closely covering her eyes. Intrigued Bartrane asks, "Is there anything wrong, Aiauta?"
    "You said we were safe here, Master. It's just I thought I smelled something familiar."
    "And that would be?"
    "Flowers. I thought I smelled flowers."
    Bartrane laughs, "It's probably your breath, Aiauta after all everyone knows that you smell like flowers that's practically all you eat."
    The two of them laugh. She takes down her hood, "You're probably right. But I eat mushrooms, moss and lots of other things too."
    Bartrane rolls his eyes, "I know young lady you've tried to feed me both the silliest things and some things that are surprisingly good.
    How is your family by the way?"
    "I'm sure they are happy in their little valley. No one comes but every decade or two. They are safe and happy as always."
    "You love them don't you?"
    Aiauta grins, "Of course I love them. They raised me with love and sometimes with a hard hand when needed but always a reason."
    "What about that young human mage that visited you. I noticed the way you look at one another, well at least he for you. What was his name?"
    "Mu'awiyah? I've only met him twice. Once for only moments before I made my journey out into the world, and here when he came to speak to me."
    "So you have no feelings for the man?"
    "He is interesting, exotic, and refreshing but I am bound to another."
    "And this other person?"
    "I don't know him. Let us say that it was arranged long ago."
    "Well look at the hour. The jousting is nearly over. Let's depart for the tower, Aiauta. Its getting late.
    "Thank you, Master. Would you like me to make you something when we get back?"
    "No, I wish to have something hardier than what you make, However I do have some potatoes in the kitchen. Your welcome to use some for your own dinner Aiauta."
    "Thank you I think I will."
    The two exit the box and down the ladder. They walk to their abode slowly speaking of the news of the day and the winners of the days tourneys. The sun sets as they make the threshold and disappear into the schools doors.

Tower bells, Racing horses, carts and soldiers awaken Aiauta from her slumbers. She quickly puts her robes on and rushes downstairs to find Master Bartrane and the few other students by the fireplace. All of them speak quietly while the chaos outside crescendos.
    "Master Bartrane what's going on?"
    "We're waiting for the commotion outside to die done, Aiauta. After which, we will be able to investigate and help the populace. The tower walls are strong. They are warded and they will protect us until whatever struggle is outside subsides."
    "If there is chaos in the streets we must help as soon as we can. We need to be out there showing our presence and helping with whatever is going on."
    "Aiauta, My first responsibility is to keep my pupils safe, including you young lady. We cannot run headlong into a danger that we know nothing about."
    Aiauta seethes, "I can't believe what I am hearing! Here by this fireplace is the ability to help better than most. Our very nature calls out to help and help now! Let us go and do what we can."
    Master Bartrane shakes his head, "Monty and Nicolas are sons of noblemen that pay good coin for me to keep their sons safe until they have proper training for their test. Sally is very young. William and Ezra are sponsored by patrons of the robes if any of them get hurt it will be disastrous for the school and I may have to close the doors if anything happens to them. It's just too risky."
    "Is this what its about then. Trade Coin! Reprimands from your superiors in either wealth, position or status? I am ashamed to see this. If we will not go together then I will ask for volunteers to help now instead of sitting here like scared children. There are lives on the line. We must go.
    Therefore I will ask for volunteers to come with me. Who will help?"
    Sally is the first to step forward. She takes Aiauta's hand, "I'll come. I don't have many spells but I'll do my best to help out."
    Aiauta looks to Monty. He will be the one to replace her when she passes her test as Master Bartrane's assistant.
    He shy's away, "My father wouldn't want me taking such a risk. You should listen to Master Bartrane. If anyone gets hurt its on your head Aiauta."
    She swallows watching him and turns her head to Nicolas. He rubs his chin and looks at her in a serious manner, "My father is knight protector of a large province in Somalia. He would look at me in pride when he finds out I did my best so I pledge to you that I will go, but here me Aiauta. If any of us does get hurt. Word will get out and there will be repercussions."
    Aiauta nods her agreement and looks to Ezra, "I won't be foolish enough to risk my life for peasants and vagrants. They have no power, money, or ambition other than what they can scrape together to survive. The best of us are all behind stone walls. Then we'll come out say our platitudes to look like we're doing something and comforting the damned and the wounded. But really what we're doing is saving face. The city needs a cleansing and as far as I feel it is proper. Let us get rid of some of the riff-raff so that better people can take over. I'm staying. Matter of fact I may go to the observation deck at the top of the tower to enjoy the view."
    Aiauta gives her a dark stare and turns to the last student, William.
    "I'm with you Aiauta. Tell you the truth I'm scared of what I may find out there but its a real chance to see how I can use my spells to help out. No more laboratory conditions inside or out. This will be my first true test. Can't let that opportunity pass now can I."
    Aiauta looks to Bartrane with a defiant expression.
    "I'll keep these two safe here until the commotion has died down. Go but be very careful young lady. You tread on slippery ground."

    The four students walk out of the tower. The smell of burnt meat and smoke fills the air. There are fires spread across the city. Several horses and people lay upon the street. Some of the horses look to be ripped open and parts eaten out of. Smoke fills the sky hiding both moon and stars. People run through the streets some obviously looters. Others wandering aimlessly. It looks like a scene straight out of the abyss.
    The three look to Aiauta. She turns her attentions to Sally and starts casting, "Strength, Fleet, Heartiness."
    After using her transmutation spells on Sally she clasps her head with her hands, "Sally your job is to gather the herbalist, clerics, and potion makers. Direct them to the rest of us so that they can work with our group to help. Tell your raven to go to the mage shop. Have him get Gedron out of his dungeon to join us."
    Sally nods and takes off.
    "Nicholas."
    "Yes, Ma'am"
    "Your a nobleman. Go to the west where the calvalry and fairgrounds are. Offer your assistance there. If I remember correctly your strength is conjuration. A few water elementals would be a great help if you can control them."
    "On it, my glorious leader." He leaves giving her a wink.
    Willian looks around at the destruction.
    "You sure you're ok? There's no disgrace in backing out."
    "I'm good. It's just an overwhelming task."
    Aiauta looks to the docks, "Docks are the worst. I'll go there. You take the city center. Sally should have some people fairly quick coming to help you."
    "Sure you want to take the docks, Aiauta? Looks pretty bad."
    "I'm the one who stepped out. I'm the most experienced. Yes, this one is on me."
    William puts out his hand, "Come back to us safe."
    She clasps his arm, "You to and be careful don't take unnecessary risks."
    He gives her a grunting smile, "Unlike you, Aiauta. We know you too well."
    "Well if I give my life in service of helping the people of the city at least the repercussions can't trump the results."
    William laughs lets go of her arm and wanders off toward the temple.

    Aiauta heads to the docks to find the area a complete disaster. People wander in disarray. The cargo/transport that heads to Good Bay is sunk and on fire. Willie's is on fire. and many of the houses surrounding the area are also on fire. Smoke fills the area.
    There is as least some good news. The dock workers are already handling the ship with a bucket bigrade. Some even have a pump bringing up sea water to hose the Mary Sue down. She looks around until she sees a familiar dock face, "You! Yes You! Come here?"
    The short stubby man with a long beard walks up to her in a daze, "What is er now, Lassie?"
     "Have you seen the potion vender that takes up shop here, "Na tonight, She be home tend'in to her children."
    "Which house?" He points to an unburned one. She nods to him and continues, "Alright then line the wounded up between Willies and the docks. I'll come with her and start helping the wounded. Get some of your fellows to help. It will be something to do."
    The man seems to get his wits about him and holds out his palm. She looks at him disgusted and replies, "The more people the docks lose tonight the less you have to feed off of."
    The man has to think this over a few seconds. He gets a serious look about him and nods to her, "I'll be getting the wounded like you be asking. You got you point across. I'll be wait'in for you to come."
    Aiauta nods to him and runs to the house. She stops and whistles an odd tune. It doesn't take long for heckle to arrive he is bathed in sot and hot to the touch.
    "Heckle, go and retrieve my herbal bag from the room." The sting lizard flies off to the north.
     Aiauta knocks and then pounds on the door with no answer. She looks around for what to do then pulls out her spell book. She doesn't have the right one memorized. producing some spell components from her robes she speaks an incarnation directly from the book. As her phrases and hand movements end the locks on the door all produce a clicking sound. She opens the door and rushes in.
    The herbalist is holding three children in her arms the oldest cant be more than twelve. At first she looks at the intruder in a frightful demeanor. Then she recognizes her, "Aiauta! What are you doing here?"
    "Grab all the potions and herbs you can carry and come with me."
    "I cannot go out there. It's a madhouse it is! Who would take care of me boys?"
    What's the oldest boy's name?"
    "Oh that be Johnny Walker! I'm proud of him I am. He start working the docks couple months ago."
    "Jonny here." She holds out her walking stick. "Think you can protect your brothers until your momma comes back?"
    "Aye I can. That be a fine quarterstaff you majesty."
    She looks back at the herbalist, "If he's old enough to work the docks he's old enough to defend his home."
    "Aiauta, You be the first person trust'in Johnny with somethin like this. Cause of that I'll be going with you."
    "Good there's a lot of wounded."
    "But Who be payin for all this work I be doing."
    "I will."
    "I know you be good for it. You always been a dear with the tradin and helped a lot of womenfolk with them gowns. I know you be good for it."
    They rush out of the house carrying as many potions and herbal remedies as they can gather together at the house. Making their way to the docks a couple of young ruffians pounce upon them. Aiauta puts her thumbs together and says a few archaic words. Flames shoot from her fingertips in an arc covering the two youth in flames. Their clothes catch fire and they run away.
    As they round the corner they see five men carrying burned and broken men and women far enough away from Willies so as not to get hurt. The herbalist and Aiauta get to work. Aiauta uses aloe gels and other holistic remedies to take care of the ones that aren't that badly burned or bruised. The alchemist uses her potions on the worst of them.
    As they work Aiauta catches a man fingering the battered and wounded. He's picking their clothes for everything he can find. She stands and confronts him.
    "What are you doing?"
    "They will na be needing these where they're going, beauty." He yells to her smiling.
    She says a few words while motioning with her hand in a circle. The man's face looses all its color. He goes screaming into the night.
     The herbalist looks over, "What you do to em, Aiauta?"
     "Just scared the hell out of him with a vision is all. He will not be back."
     The herbalist smiles, "You know lass, You ain't so bad for a mage."
     Aiauta smiles and goes back to her work.
     They work for hours the fire at Willies and the ship from Good Bay are put out. There are still a dozen buildings burning in the district. The salves and potions are almost all gone. When a man rushes up to them.
    "Help! Can anyone help!"
    Aiauta stands, "What's the problem."
    "My friends kids are trapped in a burning building and no one it seems can get them out!"
    "I'm Aiauta I may be able too."
    "Lassie, There's a burning beam in front of the door. It take a much stronger man than a little lady elf to free it up. I need a few good men!"
     "I think I can handle it. Us elves have more to offer than just brawn. I'll come with you."
     The dock worker looks hesitant and untrusting but he nods, "Guess any help will do then come on with me."

     Aiauta arrives with the man at the burning house. It's a blaze. There are screams coming out from behind the doorway. Three men are struggling with crowbars trying to move a burning crossbeam in front of the threshold. She recognizes one of them a bounty hunter she crossed paths with a few years ago.
    She quickly analyzes the problem and the problem of getting the children out. She then yells out to them, "All of you stand back. You'll be burnt by the flames."
     The bounty hunter recognizes her and immediately stands well away from the door. Of the other two upon seeing him move away one of them the short one follows him but the tall lanky one still struggles frantically with the beam. Aiauta goes up to him and whispers some words into his ear. He falls to the ground. She then backs up, "Move him away from the door."
     While they are doing that she makes intricate hand movements and several incantations. An elemental shield wraps round her body, and another magic shield to prevent debris from falling upon her goes up. She looks to the others, "I am now protected from the fire. I will weaken the beam near the door once that is done break it up. I'll go in and get them."
    The three still standing give her the thumbs up. Aiauta puts her fist into the palm of the other hand and concentrates. She starts her incantation in a whisper and as it progresses her voice raises to a screaming crescendo.
    She throws her hands out. A high pitched wave of sound burst from them hitting the beam square in its middle. It cracks the men rush it including the father who has awakened. They make quick work of it now pulling the two pieces out of the threshold. Aiauta rushes in.
    The screams she had heard when she arrived have died off to whimpers. She searches the house frantically watching the strength of her elemental shield. She chokes on the smoke but moves on. There at the other end of the house in a small bedroom Two children lie on the floor they are severely burnt but still whimpering.
    At least they are alive but how can she get them out. She is now out of spells, potions and this is no place to either move them in their condition or try to put salves on them. She quickly opens her spell case and digs a spell out of it. She then cries as she knows she can only save one. Her own body cannot take the damage of both...……or can it.
    They say that the change itself can have certain healing effects. She looks around for any other way. and finds none. She makes her decision She thinks to herself, "Two young lives for one grown adult. I can die for that. Her bones and muscles stretch. The pain comes. Once finished she goes up to the children and rolls the small scroll out.
    She reads the incantation the spell components disappear. She puts her mouth almost upon the mouth of the smallest one. Black vapors erupt from it. She breaths all of them in. As quickly as she can she places her mouth over the second. The process is repeated as burns start to cover her body. She screams at the healed children, "Run! Run! as fast as you can."
    They start to run. In excruciating pain Aiauta concentrates. Her bones shorten muscles become denser. She half walks, half crawls out of the burning building. The group of four men gently carry the stricken mage back to Willies and the herbalist.
    As they walk back one of the children asks, "Who is that?"
    Sneed looks over to him, "That's the woman that save you Donny and your brother"
    "No it isn't"
    "What do you mean?"
    "The one who saved us was a silver haired angel with glowing eyes and the bluest of skin"
    Sneed laughed, "Fire was playing tricks on your eyes, Donny. She's the only one that went into the building."
    "If you say so, Uncle Sneed. Still...…..I don't know. She looks nothing like what I saw."
    "It's ok we all see visions when in that kind of trouble. no worries. Just be thankful a mage be willing to help out."

Aiauta opens her eyes to find she is laying on a bed in a small room. There are a vast array of potted plants surrounding her. She immediately looks at her arms. They are brown and free of injury. She breaths a heavy sigh of relief. That is when she hears a voice.
    "Finally up and about are we now. It be three days It has."
    She looks over to find the herbalist in a chair leaning over and meeting her eyes.
    "What happened? Where am I?"
    "What's the last thing you remembers, Aiauta?"
    She thinks back before she replies, "I...…… There were two children. They were burnt and I had to move them but couldn't I knew a spell. A very dangerous spell. but It would only heal one unless...…… unless I did something...…..She closes her eyes. That's all I remember."
    Well You's a hero now. Even the mayor sent you flowers. organizing the docks. Helping me heal all those people. And the two children. You got friends you don't even know now. And I say good on you."
    "I don't think I understand?"
    "Well I guess I be the one filling you in seeing that I be volunteer'in to help watch you. You see after you come out of that burning house. The locals you helped sent you straight to me. I had me some of me strongest healing potions stashed away in me robes. You know just in case. They got to me quick enough that I was able to heal yous up real good but you wouldn't wake up. We be trying everything. So me and the fellows you helped stayed with you till morning we did.
    Morning come and you teacher goes and shows up along with a lot of important types never go along the docks unless of course they be need'in to go somewheres. That teacher of yours examines you and they tells they be taking you here to the temple of the big dragon. We don't like them high and mighty types so we say only if one of us can be watching you till you up and about. Funny thing is they agree. Some of them laughs at us but they agree. So every 1/4 day or so someone be watching you till you wake."
    "Do you know what actually happened?"
    "Aye I do. T'was a demon t'was. A single demon entered the city and ravaged it. Even threw a bunch of spells just like a mage he did. It be having goat feet, great black wings and glowing red eyes. Folks all over swear to it. There be many a story come out of this. Even some stories bout you. they be fanciful they be. but that be neither here or there."
    Aiauta suddenly sits up, "You said he had cloven feet? Just like a goats?"
    "Aye, Aiauta That's what folk who saw em say. You be looking like you just seen a ghost."
    "I may have. why was I asleep for so long when you said you healed me?"
    "You teacher found the answer he did. Seems you overspent yerself with magic. He be noticing several blank places in yer books he did. He said you used all ye spells and when you needed more you read them straight out of your books. He said that that much magic at your abilities spent you twice as much as would normally do. He be saying you could be out for even a couple weeks."
    Aiauta suddenly looks pained, "I must go. There are things that...….."
    "You be staying right were you be. You earned it ye did. And there be lots of folk, Our kind of folk and them kind of folk want to meet with you. You be needing your rest and If I have to funnel a sleep potion it ye I will by the gods."
    "I...… I am tired, and hungry."
    "I'll have a good meal sent up for you I will."
    "No need, I have all I need here." Aiauta takes up a bouquet of tulips and starts eating the pedals. The herbalist thinks its about the strangest thing she's seen a mage do. Afterward Aiauta drifts off to sleep. The herbalist keeps watch until a large burly man walks in, A man she knows is very high up in the local thieves guild. As she walks out she notices that he takes her hand and puts his forehead to it as if in prayer.