Eska’eldalie, 18th September 366 SR

Farewells and a new start
A whole year has passed since I last wrote in my journal. Life with VanQa in Silverleaf has flown by, as times blessed with happiness so often do. But the lands become increasingly quiet as if awaiting some sign...

I had spent many months advertising my smithing services in Yew with a regular standing announcement in Ye Morning Poste. It was at the time that the Yew rebellion raged and I had hoped this would create work for a smith. But it proved not to be so and the forge in Fretting Cottage remained unused.

Several weeks passed before I spoke my heart to VanQa that I felt I had done all I could and that I am considering giving up smithing. VanQa said nothing for some time. Then she asked if I would like to move to Eska'eldalie where I might teach my human smithing skills to the elves' benefit, and in turn learn some of the higher secrets of elven metal-working.

I did not hesitate, and so it was decided.

The next day I went to what was to be my last Free Repairs Hour of these times. Draxandru Rose and Aegnor were there as usual and I told them of our decision. I embraced Draxy and also Aegnor who has been as a father to me and my mentor and teacher, and I shed a silent tear.

To my surprise and joy, that hour was unusually busy. Many of those I had loved and admired dropped by to say farewell. Stewan Seagull; Devante Stirling; Kaelyn; Lady Tyranissa Wrath with a fearsome pet red dragon; Van Cocidius, the Baron of Vesper; the Duke of Trinsic's son bringing greetings from his father whom I had served first as serf then as freeman; Bevier from Skara Brae came to say au revoir; Sachiko; Rorimac the Silverleaf Hobbit who brough a cake as a parting gift. Other folk came too, some that I recognised, as well as one or two I didn’t.

I was overwhelmed with the emotion of the occasion, I had no idea I had so many friends!

I had one more important leave-taking - Mine Hostess Gwen Irima. And leaving The Trinsic Rose for the last time my heart was heavy. Returning home, VanQa was waiting and we packed and emptied Fretting Cottage, eating Rorimac’s cake gift on our final eve in celebration of my 40th birthday that day.

The next day, with the birches of the Deep Forest flaming in red and gold, we departed - for Eska’eldalie!

On that journey came Smaed, as is his right, being half-eleven. We were accompanied as far as Aldenkoi by Smaed’s mother Agnes “Doomsong”, and by Moll Sinders and our son Jern, now 13 years old and making his first great journey, wide-eyed with wonder.

It is indeed hard to part with so many loved ones, but who knows, one day I may return to Sosaria. And messages can always be exchanged as well as visitors welcomed. Not the end - but a new beginning...