Carried in by the gust of wind and pelting rain, Windswept the Bold visited the village of Falton as she had heard of a pending threat from the Werewolves and was vigilant of upholding the honor and goodness of the village folk in any way she could.
She had been friends with Stryder and Queen Anne and had heard of the recent ascent of the Stryder’s father who himself had been a defender of good, having fought pirates and dedicated his life as a force for good. As a result, his wife, Stryder’s mother — the Wise One, had come to visit the village and purview the situation. She added her wisdom, wit, and support to nurture the gathering from near and far. Upon meeting the Wise One, Windswept fell immediately into her company as she recognized her as a blessed regal one of many special gifts from which Windswept could learn an immense amount. The two became instant friends and shared their wisdom of the lessons they had learned through their journey of life which could help inform the generations to come.
Despite the whirling winds and weather, the people were undaunted in their quest to protect the village as well as to share in the opportunity of the dance, quests for fortune and games of chance. People came from near and far in good numbers and represented a variety of color and professions. New noblemen brought their valor and the noble women brought their courage and strength to share in the day. Much effort had been given by the warriors to create their weapons, armor, shields and leather to protect them in battle. The new leather worker had journeyed to the land and was engaged by many to help craft unique arts. Trolls, fairies, witches and people of the land were diverse in the magic of their character.
With the village prepared for the day and everyone pledging to uphold the primary value of fun for all, Stryder convened the travelers with a reminder of the guidelines of the order of the day: that all are to consider the welfare of others. He went on to inspire the group with prayer and all responded with a hearty “HUZZAH!” to enliven the thrill of the fun of the gathering.
Queen Anne, not being one to sit on the throne, journeyed through the land to help, laugh, inspire, support and encourage the people.
Despite the threat of evil in the air, the economy seemed to be thriving. The treasure was bountiful, such that titles of intrinsic value were being purchased. The bank was in place to barter and Windswept the Bold, being a trusted friend, was given the honor of collecting the treasure from the seekers. It was soon realized that the town was bustling with abundance and the treasure was too abundant for the bank clerks alone to handle. So, the monks were called in to help Windswept count the treasure from the chests so that she could continue to assist the banker with the other transactions.
On several occasions, all the people were able to put aside their differences to enjoy the season’s festivals. There was the annual dance, the newly introduced game of werewolf vs. human chess, an archery contest, and a theatrical presentation written by our own playwright, Miss Imogen. The story relived the valiant battle between Lord Harding and the Ice Dragon – which was the hallmark of the Winterfest festival.
During the chess game, some saw what they felt for certain was a sign from God. While the day was characterized by clouds and bluster, with a chill in the air, there was a brief period when the sun shone brightly and shared its warmth. Was it coincidence, or providence that this occurred immediately after the humans won the match by killing the werewolf King — Blackwall? Had good been rewarded, or was it the simple fickle winds blowing a cloud out of the way? Many have conjectured, but the world may never know.
At points throughout the day, and locations around the land, battles ensued with many sacrificing for the overall victory of the day in which darker forces were defeated. Stryder continued to enliven the crowd as well as inspire with prayer when needed to transcend the difficulties faced in the fight of good and evil. In the midst of the big battle, the final battle, the battle that engulfed the land, where the Humans fought against the Werewolves, a most interesting thing occurred. A four-winged bird hovered overhead and appeared to be watching the battle. Through the magic of a Seeing Stone provided by Sir Will, the view from the bird’s eyes allowed all to see the dynamics of the battle. It captured the bigger picture and provided a broader perspective of the strategy of the fight for good. It added another dimension to the day that was much appreciated and admired by all.
In the end, it was observed that on the front lines, the battle was fierce. It was life and death. It was each person’s turn to make a difference in this world. It was the time to give it your all and either succeed, or die trying. However, from the eyes of the bird, it all looked rather simple; rather insignificant. As one died, as another conquered, it really didn’t make much difference when viewed from the height of the hills. Perhaps, just perhaps, not all that we consider life and death actually carries a value of such magnitude.
At the end of the day, awards were given for the valiant efforts and all were transformed by laughter, partaking of good food and fellowship and the celebration of the birthday of the good Stryder. The man Stryder who was carrying on the legacy of his noble father and who’s son, Rayth, was the hero of the day. This man Rayth, who will no doubt, continue to carry this legacy on to further lands and further adventures.