On The Occasion Turning 40, As A Harbinger Of Light
By: Vesta
Dear diary: I read the words from these well worn pages and it doesn’t seem real. Forty seasons of training and experience sure changes a girl, and my thoughts churn within me. Surely we are shaped by our experiences and our surroundings, and I wish now that I could say that all my adventures have been noble. Encourage me with tales of my victories and former glories. Yes: the first time I was recruited to cleanse the sewers and tunnels of Altdorf. I remember that I was nearly gagged as the feculence burned around me. Even now, the stench associated with that memory is seared into my very being. And yet there I was, proud to be using my gift of fire to cleanse and take back the city. If only the Sisterhood of Aqshy could have seen me then!
Vestal looked around Sigmar’s Hammer, savouring the deep draughts of memories that flooded her mind. Around her, people continued about their business, unaware of her presence in the corner by the hearth that had been her safe place during many winters of harsh training when she had first taken the Gold and Green and been accepted as a Harbinger of Light.
“If only the sisterhood could see me now†she thought, and shuddered as the shameful images of THAT NIGHT came flooding back to her. That night of drunken abandon that had gone so horribly wrong. That night that she had earned the title “Keg Slayer†and how the world had changed after that! Innocence lost is a poor trade for the “knowledge†gained. “Unto the pure, all things are pure†– how I long for those days again, she thought, as she recalled the lessons of her youth. “Keg slayer, indeed.†Vestal carefully removed her green and gold cloak, and gently laid it across the chair in front of her. Taking another sip of the bitter bean brew, she continued writing in the diary.
As I pen these words, I am reminded of how the world has gotten larger since the days of my youth in the Sorority. I fondly recall the security and safety I always felt within those walls. The Empire was all I knew, and the majestic stories and grandeur of faraway lands seemed too fantastic to be anything but myth, and yet I have seen them now with my own eyes. I have strolled through the pastoral lands of Etaine, and sampled its wares straight from the vine. I have fought alongside the dragons of Dragonwake, and lived to tell the tale! I have spelunked through the caves hewn from Thunder Mountain and seen for myself the intense pride the Dwarves have for their lands, their kin... and of course their Ale! Who would have thought that the girl from Nordland would be exploring the furthest corners of the realms and be sharing the camaraderie of Elves and Dwarves alike? If only the Sisterhood of Aqshy could see me now.
Looking up, Vesta appraised the cloak that lay before her. Its fine fabric, with edges slightly frayed from battle. Its rich gold and green colours, and the noble and magnificent eagle whose wings seemed to envelope her when she wore it. The symbols of the Dwarfs, Elves and Empire stitched equally below it, icons reminding her of comrades with shared allegiance and purpose. Setting down the now cold bean brew, she continued writing.
Reading about the fire and destruction of the Temple certainly brings back many painful memories, Diary, and would that I could forget them and the months of feeling lost and helpless as I wandered aimlessly with the Flame searching for a place for us to call home. Were it not for meeting Adyra, and the Harbingers, I dread to think what might have become of me. This cloak I wear reminds me each day of the dignity that was returned to me as I became a valued member of a fellowship once again. In my story, I imagine the eagle is a Phoenix who rises from the flames of ruin and loss and triumphs over all in strength and honour. If only the Sisterhood of Aqshy could see what I will accomplish now!
Vesta looked up and saw friends Beriain, Kerrel and Adyra standing at the table nearby, looking over the maps that Dary was unfurling. She could hear that they were discussing the strategy for taking back the Lost Vale. Vestal reflected on the Alliance that the Harbingers were a part of, and marvelled at the close knit family that the alliance had become.
Dear diary: I take my leave now- my thoughts precious to me once again, and the turmoil passed. You have encouraged me to continue with the struggle, and to move forward against all things Destruction, as I once vowed. I carry this torch with dignity, and hold it high - that Aqshy herself may guide my steps in her service and for her honour. I will continue my search for a suitable resting spot for the Holy Flame, and will not rest till I see this done. My name long forgotten, you may call me Vestal maiden, for I am the keeper of the Holy Flame; the last of my once proud sisterhood. I give my life to protect the sacred flame and am avowed by an oath of my own lips to pursue Holy vengeance upon the filthy destruction hordes who took from me all I once held dear... all but the Flame.