Passage to Paradise

[Manwhoisthisman]

Ok, I'll now head home.

OOC: Well said about bones. I've definitely seen some go games won that way.

[madtinker]

As you walk in the shop door your father is just putting aside his morning's work.

"How did it go? Wait, don't tell me. Come upstairs and have lunch, and tell your mother and me at the same time."

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Alright." I say as I follow him upstairs.

[madtinker]

Your mother herta you both with a smile, and a kiss for tour father. "So, how did it go? Did Fathers Feodor find time to talk?"

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Yes, and it was very productive. He has decided to employ me directly."

[madtinker]

Your mother exclaims "you've been accepted into the clergy? That's wonderful!"

Your father just eyes your new equipment doubtfully.

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Not as clergy, no. I have an assignment to investigate. Presently, looking for the Lost Ones."

[madtinker]

They glance at each other, confused. "You mean, the ones who left and never returned? The ones who went outside the wall and all died?" your father asks, slowly.

[Manwhoisthisman]

"The ones who went outside the wall and never returned, yes. Father Feodor suspects they may still be alive and may have knowledge about the recent unusual creatures outside the wall." I add with emphasis, "I think he is correct. I know it is dangerous, but it is also important."

[madtinker]

Your mother is holding back tears, but your father can barely contain his excitement.

"Will anyone be going with you?" she manages to ask.

[Manwhoisthisman]

"I've been thinking about that. I know Sam would go with me if I asked, but I'm just not sure."

[madtinker]

This seems to mollify her a little, but then she says, "Why does it have to be you at all though? Can't Tom and the hunters handle it?"

[Manwhoisthisman]

"If the goal was to attack them that might work, but to find and negotiate with them -- to find out what they know and if they can help -- that isn't something I'd trust a mob of hunters to do. Tom by himself maybe, he's a good guy, but San Angriel needs him leading his men at the wall. That is especially true if I don't find them and come back empty handed."

[madtinker]

"But...what...what if you don't ccome back?"

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Mom, please have faith," I plead gently, "I'm going in the service of the light bringer."

[madtinker]

She nods, trying to accept. "I'll redouble my morning prayers while you're gone."

"Well Tobias, I'm proud of you. If Tom tells me true, you'll be able to take care of yourself well enough," your father offers.

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Thank you." I tell both of my parents. "I'm going to finish preparing and try to start out while it is still quite light out. And mom, please don't worry, I'll be back -- just not in time for supper."

[madtinker]

"At least let me make you some food to take."

[Manwhoisthisman]

"That sounds wonderful."

[madtinker]

As you gather any other gear you might have left at home, your mother fills a small bag with hard bread, cheese, dried meat, nuts, and dried fruit.

"Where are you going to start looking?" your father asks.

OOC: you now have four days of trail rations.

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Tom was able to point out a rockface that has a wall that looks to be crafted, so I figure that will be a good place to start."

OOC: About how far away did the wall appear to be? about 10 miles, I had forgotten that detail was previously posted.

[madtinker]

"Well, if anyone can puzzle it out and track the Lost Ones, it'll be you."

[Manwhoisthisman]

"Thank you. Oh, also, if you can avoid it, please don't mention to Sasha or Igor that I've gone outside the wall."

[madtinker]

Your father smiles and nods. "Wouldn't want the little tykes trying to follow you, eh?"

[Manwhoisthisman]

I nod, then prepare my things to leave and give hugs and kisses. "Don't worry mom, I'll be back."

[madtinker]

She nods, kisses your cheek and says, "good luck, come back safe."

Your father gives you a hug. "Want me to walk you out to the gate, son?"

[Manwhoisthisman]

"That sounds nice, let's do that."

[madtinker]

With a last wave to your mother you set out.

"I'm really proud of you son. No one yet has tried to do what you are attempting."

[Manwhoisthisman]

"I don't know what anyone has had a good reason to before. Well, not as such anyway."

[madtinker]

"Just that we never heard back from them should have been reason enough. By Pelor's grace maybe they'll be penitent by now and ready to give up their dark ways."