Role

Chapter 7

"Sit. Tell us about life." Woldrun's father's abrupt way of speaking
sounded somehow alien to Woldrun's ears, after all this time. It was
what he had grown up with, and how he had spoken for many years after
setting out to see the world, yet his own expanded and lengthened
vocabulary left him feeling like an outsider in this place that had
spawned him.

"I am a member of the Village of the BattleRagers," Woldrun began. He
knew he would have to work up to all of his accomplishments, rather
than spew them all forth, or his father would never believe him.

"I have had a hut for many years. Have formed good relationship with
another giant-" Woldrun left out the fact that the other giant was, in
fact, one of the feared Fire giants - he did not need a lecture about
catching diseases from one of those "black and red boulders" (though
thinking about Borkahd's obsession with raping elves and dark-elves
almost nightly did leave him a bit hesitant to shake the hand of his
Commander) "-and both have reached the top circle of Warrior guild."

His mother began to tear up a bit, with pride at her oldest child's
success, but his father gestured somewhat impatiently (for a cloud
giant) for him to continue.

"What about mark on arm? What that about?" he pestered.

"I am getting to that." Woldrun replied. "I sought out Lady Yean and
spoke with her. Many times. The other giant, my friend? He became the
Village Commander. He also speaks often with Lady Yean."

The door to his parent's home opened and in dashed the youngest of
his family, a young giant that stood no taller than a horse.

"Woldrun friend of Commander?!!?" the little one exclaimed,
wide-eyed and flushed with excitement. He had clearly been listening
at the door.

A loud "HARRUMPH" from Woldrun's father settled the lad down. Woldrun
decided this was the best time to finish the main part of his tale.

"Yes, I am. In fact, when the former Drillmaster retired, the Commander
named me his replacement. I am Drillmaster of the Village, and one of
a very few who are honored to bear the mark of Lady Yean, Goddess of the
BattleRagers." With that, he gave his well-formed bicep a flex, and
the sword-and-flute bulged out prominently.

The reaction was mixed, to put it mildly. His mother was no longer able
to control her tears of joy, and jumped up to hug him. His youngest
brother's eyes grew larger than seemed giantly possible, and a grin
split his face from ear to ear, widening at each word. His father...

Another "HARRUMPH" interrupted the hugging and grinning quicker than a
magi throwing fireballs into a village made of kindling.

"And? How many of other Gods have met? You say wanted explore, learn
terrain. Only meet one Goddess? Hrmph."