Aramus was quiet as we walked down the spiraling staircase around the great central tree of the citadel. His face bore a silent, supportive smile. His thoughts were his own however. Despite my prodding he had refused to tell me his thoughts on my latest request, only that he supported my decision, and that I should do as I believe is best for me.

“Although it isn’t common practice in the circle, we agree with your idea of making the last leg of your training an actual mission for the circle. It is quite amusing that you would seek to serve a circle to which you are still an initiate. It is also pleasing,” the venerable Speaker of the Emerald Circle had said. “You have also demonstrated the qualities of a wanderer and explorer and it is not our interest to hold you in one place against your will. As you have clearly indicated that you are not interested in, and I quote, ‘a silly errand’ we have decided to send you to Ulthalamel. As you know, tensions are rising between the Eloran nation and the Dorn states to the south. You are to seek out information about the situation, and play whatever role you see fit in defusing any explosive circumstances. You are also to advise us if you feel that conflict is to soon arise as a result of the situation, and that our intervention is required.”

Indeed, it is no silly errand. Perhaps they have overestimated my capabilities, but Aramus had remained silent. He would have spoken out if he felt that I was being put in harms way. True, it was I who requested to be sent on a mission. I have learned much in my few years among the circle and have participated in no few expeditions and missions, but I wanted something real. Something a full member of the circle would undertake. But the prospect of dealing with the nobility of Caernbrennau… I was not sure I was ready to see him again…

As we reached the base of the tree, Aramus spoke, “Remember to seek out companions to travel with. I would come along with you, but Speaker Thaedras have need of me at the citadel, and the other members are out as usual.” I nodded at the human I have come to think of as a good friend and mentor

As we walked away from the trees and approach the edge of the clearing, I looked back at my home. The five great trees stood magnificently, nestled in a deep ravine, flanked by rock solid mountains on either side. A river flowed past their trunks, from the edge of the northern forest to the southern cliff, spewing water off its edge in a beautiful waterfall that drops for miles into a lake below. The northern forest towards which we were walking now is the only approach to the citadel.

Aramus raised his hands in a gentle motion, and the undergrowth parted before him, forming a path out of the dense forest. He placed a hand on my shoulder, “Good luck friend.” I smiled and walked through the magical path he had created. The noise of the waterfall receded behind me as I walked. When I could no longer hear the torrential downpour of water upon rock, I knew I was alone in the wilderness of the Eloran forests.

It is time to set out once again.