[Rambling]

In 2206 I stood in the Ballroom of Caethir's castle.

I watched my friend walk out the doors.

I would never see her again.

That same year a troubled face from before

I became a member of the Bastion

was also taken by the same bastards.

Through 2207, all prepared for

an act of sacrilege.

And more were taken still.

And during this time those that sheltered

those bastards and claimed no fault in horrid crimes

were called to account.

All raised their banners in unity against such evils

but in the midst of all of this was an

uncounseled bid to assert control of reality.

A bid that failed to do ought

but pit brother and sister against each other.

Unity, once celebrated, torn asunder.

The act of sacrilege was shattered

but even still the victory was to the dark ones

for in the wake of it the blows fell.

It is 2208. I stand in Atheleon.

I beg for a gentle conclusion.

A hopeful return to unity.

I am mocked for such a desire.

Because here with more years of suffering

can we shake the leeches out.

War is declared.

The enemies of all triumph.

And there is no recourse.

We must endure this deprivation.

We must remember that cruel seasons end.

We must keep the candles lit.

No matter what it costs us.

I am happy

None of you lived to see me like this.