Role

Chapter 7

A reaver would say blood and fire. That eradicating all who do not embrace
the rise of Thar-Eris is the only solution. Yet, I do not see how the
Outlanders, who are so few, can eradicate the remainder of all mortals. The
wardens would say we must teach, and that through love and understanding all
the world can learn to walk lightly upon Her. Yet the wolf-mother cannot
teach her pups without nipping them, nor can she save them from the bear
without ferocity and blood.

With Al'Arianat gone, I have but one home, and that is the Refuge. My only
reason to live is to bring the Rise of Thar-Eris. I can never return to the
bubble of Arianat's magic and pretend all the world is as preserved. I must
save this world, or die in the effort. Thus, the question of how best to make
men think has never been more important.

I believe the wolf is right. Teeth protect, and gentle teeth teach. The wolf
does not try to teach its pups when the bear comes and soo must it be with
the sentinel. The first responsibility is to destroy that which outrightly
harms Her, the second to teach those who can be taught, if only a little at a
time. Let protection be done with speed, and teaching be done with endurance.

I have borne my teeth against the foes of Thar-Eris, and with my axe interned
them into a bloody grave. And, I have nipped at those who are careless, like
the Fortress, with word and challenge and steel. I do not treat those I teach
like those I fight, though to outward eyes it may appear so. I do not nip at
an assassin of the Fortress when there is a conjurer of the Spire to bite.
There is no mercy, no staying of my axe, for those who defile Her -- but for
the remainder -- they need take but a single step toward living in harmony
with nature, and I will become teacher and friend. Al'Arianat has met its
end, but its last centaur has found a new beginning.