Role

Chapter 18

Azhelak has remained faithful to the Spearmaiden in his struggle. He has thus far defined for her his
definition of Courage and Purity. When tasked with the definition of Combat he had to do much soul searching.
He knows, better than most, that true combat is far more than just meeting on the field of battle. If anything
that is the easiest part of things. He knows that the true battles are often fought with one's own self.

The one night as he and Andira camped next to a waterfall in the Dwarven Forest he began to think of his people.
Izholuk, his Grandfather (many generations back), had given the Spear of Purity to the Lich in exchange for his
bride's life. This decision had plagued the Tul'vharun since and caused many to curse his name. Azhelak was not
immune to these feelings of hatred, despite his blood lineage to Izholuk. Though as he watched Andira sleeping
peacefully he, for the first time, understood his Grandfather. Was it worth it? To risk everything for one who
you love so deeply? Part of him wished he could find Izholuk's spirit to ask him as some in his tribe claim the
ghost of the felar still haunts near the Old Temple which once held the spear. But at the same time Azhelak
thinks he may already know the answer. Some people are worthy of sacrifice.

Baerinika has told him that love is a distraction. And she is, as always, correct. Azhelak began his life
focused entirely on one act: freeing the Tul'vharun. But that night, under the stars with Andira he realized
that he may not be able to do that if it means harming her. The Lich had warned that he was apart of Azhelak
for so long that he knows his emotions and his desires. If this is true it is reasonable to assume that he will
seek to use Andira as leverage against him.

And so Azhelak understood combat. If purity was the foundation then the spirit of combat was the watchtower.
If he was to defeat this Lich it must be on his terms. He cannot wait to fall into the Lich's trap. He can be a
pawn no more. He must learn all that he can of the abomination and then he must go on an offensive that will
define his legacy and the fate of the Tul'vharun for Ages to come.

Baerinika has now tasked him with defining dedication. He believes he will come to understand it well in the days
ahead. He takes comfort in the guidance of his Goddess, in the love of Andira and in the warmth of the New Dawn.
He stares into the abyss with a smile.

He is ready.