Role

Chapter 15

Does this mean that I don't believe those of the Dark can be redeemed? Not at
all. What I believe is that it will be our examples, and not our words, that
might spark something in one of the dark to question. But if so, that Dark one
will come to the question of their own accord. And the only reason I believe
even that much is because I have heard it has happened before. It is rare,
very very rare.

So my answer, in the end, to the question posed by Aerithas is this: When do
we offer the open hand of mercy instead of the fist? When they reach out and
ask for it. And even then, I would approach the situation with a good deal of
skepticism. I would see that Dark one kneel down in prayer before the altar of
Lady Azorinne before I would believe a word of their tale. I have seen, too
often, the lies and machinations of the Darkness to be nave on the subject. I
lived it for too many years.

I suppose, as an Acolyte, many must believe that I am a soft heart, one who
would preach peace over war, one who feels each soul has boundless potential
to embrace the Light. But while I have met and admire those who believe such
things (Lady Gralker comes to mind), that is not who I am. I believe that the
war we fight here is necessary, that though Light is greater than Darkness and
will overcome, the balance is very thin indeed. Some might see this as
unbefitting of an Acolyte, but I do not think so. I have been charged with the
duty of protecting the Light, and my Maran brethren specifically. I have been
charged with making sure our order does not become that which we fight
against. But there is a long way between that and handing out pamphlets to the
dark hearted in hopes that they will change their vile ways.

Though I greatly respect Aerithas and his faith, and of course Lady Azorinne
Herself, I am not an adherent to Her faith. I do not plan to offer her a Vow.
I have always been an adherent to the precepts of Lord Einoh. One would think
that Healing and Mercy are very compatible concepts, but in my mind they can
also be complete opposites when approached with Reason. I do think mercy is a
positive trait, generally, and if redemption is the ultimate form of mercy
then surely it is worthwhile to pursue as dictated by reason. But in the
opinion of this humble bard, it is rarely dictated by reason within the
confines of the daily war we fight with Darkness.

In summary, I believe in mercy and possibly redemption for those who seek it,
that seeking it must be the catalyst, and that mercy is conditional upon
actions taken toward redemption.