Vaddon

Vaddon Whorlo
Status	Active
Race	Kaldar
Gender	Male
Guild	Paladin
Instance	Prime

Early Life and Education

From what the monks told him, Vaddon was born on a farm in a year of great drought. As the farms around the Whorlo family’s dwindled, dried up, and were abandoned, his parents decided to abandon theirs as well. Sending their children to relatives and friends abroad, they were left with the youngest, now not even a year old. They ended up leaving him with the church and a generous tithe, hoping to establish a new farm and return soon to retrieve him.

Months passed, and then years. Vaddon grew up among monks, priests, traveling friars, and the other orphans. While many of the children gravitated toward the scholarly learning, some part of him believed the story that he was told about his parents eventually returning to claim him. Vaddon desperately yearned for that day and wanted to be ready to work the farm. He took on physically demanding jobs to prepare for the hard life of a farmer. Initially he worked in the temple gardens helping the Gardener Eaadrich. His work ethic and strength was quickly noticed and eventually he began working with the Undertaker Khurek to bury the bodies of the recently deceased.

Khurek, took to him and began mentoring him. He began telling Vaddon stories of his great inquisition against the Necromancers, battles of good versus evil, and the might of holy paladins and clerics. Khurek had been a fierce warrior himself before injustice brought on his retirement to the temple cemetery. So while the other children read and studied, Vaddon began to yearn how to hold a blade. With his head full of stories about the glory of battle and fighting to rid the lands of the evil brought forth by the dark ones his path became clear.

Seeing the wanderlust in Vaddon's eyes, he was released from the temple's care and duties to pursue a path more suited to his ambitions.

Page Years

Immediately Vaddon went to the Paladin guild hall seeking work. He was eventually accepted and given page duties that had typical chores including delivering guild messages, cleaning the guild hall, tidying up the clothes and weapons of the sentry’s and those serving the Crossing guild hall. Watching and learning from those in the hall taught him civility and noble skills. Occasionally, he would be taught horsemanship in the stables and practiced combat when the training halls were empty. Often sneaking off in the early morning to the library opened a whole new world to Vaddon as he learned the history, legend and lore contained in those tomes.

This was the time, Vaddon engaged his interest in deeper thought of philosophical matters much to the dismay of others around him. In return for his service, Vaddon was provided food, shelter and clothing. More importantly the education, combat training and other forms of learning he attained by this experience was considered suitable and adequate reimbursement for these years of his life.

Initiate Years

Upon coming of age, Vaddon joined the paladin guild at the first available opportunity. Guild Leader Verika, already familiar with Vaddon granted him admittance. Lady Verika shared with him these special words at his investiture saying, “The Paladin's strength is knowledge, his sword and armor mere tools to hone a virtuous heart.” These words continue to guide Vaddon to this day as he searches for understanding of good versus evil.

Vaddon joined the formal training program directed by Lady Verika. She set expectations for him to meet in learning to use armor, weapons, and magical arts as well as a focus on the spiritual, mental and physical training. He took advantage of the morning hours to participate in any weapons classes offered, then in the afternoons took to Crossing and surrounding areas practicing what he had been taught. Evenings would find him in the corner of the library reading by candlelight or in the chambers praying and reflecting on his days.

As his skills and abilities increased, he ventured out exploring and serving the citizens of Crossing. One of his favorite activities was traveling the northern trade road between Crossing and Riverhaven ferry. He would dispatch beings that would threaten weary travelers and trade.

It was during one of these frequent patrols, that he got the notice of a trader. Vaddon came to the trader’s aid when attacked by creatures along the route saving the trader’s caravan for certain loss. The trader took a fancy to the young man, hiring him to guard her caravans on future trading business. Thus began a relationship that allowed Vaddon to acquire coins to purchase armor and weapons to aid him in his pursuit of the paladin ways.

Squire Years

On the 34th day of the the 8th month of Skullcleaver the Dwarven Axe in the year of the Silver Unicorn, Vaddon was promoted to a squire. During the ceremony held in the Paladin Guild’s Chamber, Sir Warbrolus administered an oath to Vaddon to follow the Paladin Code and use his skills and talents honorably for the defense of the gods, the lords, and the citizens against evil. Among the light seeping in through the stained-glass windows, and the simple weapon racks, Vaddon dedicated his life to that of the Paladin Code and began his noble service.

Upon completion of the squire investiture, he returned to Khurek. He sought out Khurek’s approval and his blessing of his sword and armor. Khurek was not forthcoming with the blessings. Instead, he rebuked Vaddon for his ignorance in so blindly adopting such a flawed ethos. He chastised him and humiliated him in front of the temple caretakers, shattering any illusions that Vaddon had about Khurek’s paternal concern towards him. This encounter shook Vaddon to his core causing him to doubt his chosen path. The outcome of which being his single minded resolve to prove Khurek wrong and living a good life following the code.

Vaddon placed a much greater emphasis on training especially his martial prowess, as he was now mentally and physically prepared for it. His training included continued combat practice with various weapons, horsemanship, and skills that will be useful as he upheld his oath including climbing, swimming, and athletics. This martial training and service, however, was only one aspect of his new life. Vaddon was not only a warrior-in-training, but also a nobleman, and therefore he became one. He study and learnt lessons in music and dancing, etiquette, and jousting. In addition, he continued to acutely study the Paladin Code, realms history and lore. Vaddon also learned to play some popular games, such as siegery as a means to advance his strategic thinking.

Vaddon continues to this day seeking out opportunities to follow the code. His days are spent wandering the lands applying and keeping his code.

Reflections

Sharing of stories of battles fought, lessons learned and other musings.

Justice in the Night: My Personal Fight

By my hand it has been 444 years, 62 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. Last night, by the campfire in the shadows of Corik's Wall, Katala and I had a deep conversation about justice. As the flames danced and crackled, we discussed the importance of protecting individual liberties and striving for justice even when it is difficult. Katala reminded me that justice requires protecting the freedoms of all people, and that these rights should only be restricted when necessary to prevent harm to others. He emphasized that this protection of individual liberties is crucial for creating a just and equitable society. I raised the concern that striving for justice can be difficult and that it may not always be clear what the right course of action is. But Katala insisted that we must keep fighting for justice, even when it is hard. He argued that this fight is essential for creating a civilized society where everyone has a fair shot at living a fulfilling life. Reflecting on our conversation, I realize that protecting folks' liberties and striving for justice are not always easy or straightforward. But I also know that they are essential for creating a society where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. As a younger paladin, I may not have all the answers, but I can do my part by standing up for what I believe is right and striving for justice in all my actions. In this way, I can contribute to the cause of creating a better world for all. Interesting as I continue to think of this, I recall the code which says, 'A Paladin is just and works to promote and enforce Justice and the Law.' The problem that conflicts me is the shallowness of the code's focus on complying with the law. It is silent on what justice actually means in the living world. Strikes me as odd whenever my weapon calls 'Justice' regardless of what I am swinging at. To me, justice is a vague concept poorly defined by the Guild. Maybe this is why I am struggling so much with this idea. Is it even the Guild's responsibility to help me sort this out? Combining this with having taken up traveling the lands learning from an experienced cleric, I realize that justice is a complex and nuanced concept. This cleric continually challenges me to define this concept for myself and live accordingly. She has encouraged me to sort this out and be sure what I believe is solid. She is right! It is the foundation for my path. Without knowing what I stand for, it becomes impossible to defend my beliefs. Well, it's time for me to lay down his pen and rest my weary eyes. For tomorrow, I continue my quest for justice, armed with nothing but my wits, my sword, and hopefully a good night's sleep.

Musings at Baearholt's Tavern

By my hand it has been 444 years, 43 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. Taking time to pen this entry as I sit by the warmth of the hearth at Baearholt’s Tavern listening to the sweet songs sung by his daughter but can’t help but be somber. The mug of brown ale in my hand quenching my immediate thirst but there is another thirst to return to my brothers in arm on the wall. The early part of this winter I did join them. Renewing my friendship with Katala, listening to the sweet songs of Giyle by the campfire. Interestingly my Gorbesh continues to improve thanks to Katala’s patience and willingness to aid me. I left mid-winter to travel north to this sanctuary on urgent Emerald Knight business. An Emerald Knight’s roundtable was called on the evening of 17th day. The purpose of this meeting was to muster all Knights in the Northern realms to unite and discuss the recent moon mage’s visions that don’t bode well for those on the wall. Though attendance was disappointing to see so few Knights, it resulted in increased awareness in all the realms by mere mentioning of a meeting. Reports of several rangers and paladins joining was a sweet reward and will aid our efforts to keep the Dark Hand in check. During this meeting, I delivered a speech about the history of the Knights in an attempt to encourage all to take pride in our calling. Honestly, it was a struggle for me to capture the history of the Knights in a ten roisan summary and given my own limitations in the way of scholarly pursuits. But as I recall the words of wiser paladins, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.” I put forth great effort to remedy my shortcomings. Fortunately, I was tasked with recording the meeting’s conversation so it will not be lost to passing of time. Speaking of hard workers, I got to speak with Warbrolus. He mentioned that I am making good progress in his service. I may be nearing completion of my service to him. This was both encouraging and frightening as I don’t know if I’ll be ready to bear the weight of what being raised entails. I will continue with my service and training in order to be ready if the honor is bestowed on me. Recently, I have been challenged by a cleric to think more thoughtfully about justice. The code is clear on justice, but it seems to be like an onion. Many layers than I would have imagined to consider. Pulling away a layer shows a different perspective. Ironically, I continue to chalk up my confusion in this matter by blaming my own ignorance. I know this isn’t a good excuse and does not honor the guild. I strive to be more understanding and knowledgeable. This is yet another thing to learn. It reminds me of how much I still have left to learn. Also, Betlind spent some time with me sharing about the paladin guild history. It was eye-opening. Fascinating to imagine the seven souls coming together to unite paladins. However, questions lurk in the shadows of their work. I made many notes to read more on them in the libraries and explore for myself their work. The evening is getting late. The ale having done it’s work it is time to retire for the evening. Morning brings anew the path to follow.

Corik's Wall

By my hand it has been 443 years, 114 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. Where does the time go? As I reflect on the past months spent on Corik’s Wall helping the Emerald Knights. Winter was brutal. The cold winds whipped through the crevices of my armor standing on the wall. A sense of pride swept over me knowing that I am yet another stone in the wall that keeps evil away. There were some tense moments as the onslaught continued unabated at times. It taught me much about wielding the sword and shield. As the Last mentioned they have a different way of doing things here on the wall. It taught me much using the time tested actions of those that have come before me. I had the pleasure of fighting alongside Katala, a fellow Kaldarian. He has dedicated his life to defending the wall and of service to the Emerald Knights. We were practically joined at the hip as he took me under his wing to teach me the fighting ways and of my heritage. During the months together, he taught what is meant to be a Kaldar. We spoke almost entirely in Gorbesh during our time together along the wall and he was so patient teaching me the language. It made me proud to be a Kaldar and filled in the missing hole in my life of understanding of my heritage and language. I am Kaldar. Though my parents left me, he instilled a pride in my heritage and understanding. I hope to make myself worthy. Though the days and nights were long, it was a good experience. I almost began to lose myself in the new life I had assumed. Especially memorable was Giyle’s songs around the campfires in the evenings. He’s quite a talented singer. As his soothing voice carried through the night skies, it resonated in the fibers of my being the love of the gods and the life I have chosen. Eventually his melodies reminded me of words that the Last had spoken to me upon my arrival. Reflecting back on The Last words about paladins, he said “No glory down here wasting your life.” Though I had peace it began to stir my soul. As spring approached, I couldn’t help but wrestle with the question about what is glory? It can mean so many things to people but eventually I settled on what it means to me. To me, it is an indicator of worth and value. I couldn’t help but think it’s a natural response to seeing brave deeds and works. The deeds and works on the wall, do bring glory. The lessons shared by the Knights on the wall based on years of service and history need to be shared. They inspire to keep true to one’s path. They teach devotion, bravery, fortitude, justice, courage, trust, loyal, obedience, and reverence. These are lessons to share beyond the confines of the wall. Ultimately, I have chosen to return to service and walk the Paladin life sharing these lessons. From my experience, I have additional stones to my foundation. First, strive to be known by glorious deeds, not words. Second, face hardships with courage and encourage my allies to face them with me. Third, like raw stone, my body must be worked so it’s potential can be realized. Finally, I must marshal the discipline to overcome failings within myself that threaten to dim the glory of me and my friends. So as I looked over my shoulder at the wall as it shrunk in the distance, I felt a renewed purpose and direction in my life. As I passed by the Last, I tipped my helm at him for helping me get to this point in my life.

Roasted Rabbit

By my hand it has been 442 years, 286 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. Earlier this morning, it was time to set upon the journey south to Corik’s Wall. Rising early, gathering my things went to the Royal Mews to load Hav, my horse for the trek. After paying Mathwen for his assistance, we got underway leaving Crossing as the sun rose on the horizon. Though it took longer than expected it was at no fault of Hav’s. Shrines along the Southern Trade Road and northern Illithi required my devotion. The sights of Shard rising in the distance challenged my resolve to avoid the distractions that I fell to in Zoulern. I knew that surely would have succumbed to diversions in such a grand City to keep on my path. Keeping to the east, we rode around the city and hit the road south, leaving the incredible towers behind. As the path narrowed at the canyon entrance, I hesitated briefly as we plod along. Coming upon a strange looking man. He was a contradiction in appearance, with his unkempt hair and appearance, but also tidily equipped with his weapons and sharply dressed in his armor. After brief introductions, I asked about the Emerald Knights. He went on to great length about their fight, his role, and the evil kept at bay by their efforts. When I asked of him about members of my guild, he made mention of how the paladins on the wall were all about tactics. Specifically catching my attention was his comment about them being a different breed then those that are in Zoluren. As the sun crept behind the mountains for the night, I inquired about a place to rest for the night, he directed me further south for the night. As I setup camp and secured Hav, it was time to eat. Starting a fire was a bit difficult due to the dampness, but eventually it began to warm the cool evening. Next, I quickly prepared and began cooking a rabbit for dinner. Staring into the fire, as the rabbit roasted I though back to my conversation with Last. He’s words ringed true to my doubts. He said, “We got a different breed down here, these folks know battle and tactics like no other knights I have ever seen.” This could be my place of belonging and contribution. Ringing true to the paladin code of being a protector, this may be a place for me to learn from these Knights. To fight evil applying what I’ve learned further moves me closer to serving the gods which I have sworn fealty too. As the rabbit was done, I quickly ate, prayed, and went to sleep for the night.

Doubts

By my hand it has been 442 years, 246 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. As of late, I have struggled to find purpose for all my training. Despite my efforts, the struggle against evil and preservation of good have been in vain around Crossing. The corruption of the lands is so vast and widespread there must be a better way. I’ve also been plagued by wondering about my parents. I don’t understand why they left me nor why they never returned to get me. I also think a lot of my heritage as a member of the Kaldar race. All these thoughts and unanswered questions are distracting me. For goodness sakes, I have taken up knitting to occupy my time spent thinking about these things. As I continue to follow the training plan laid out by Warbrolus, my squire studies do include time in the library. I have been reading about the Kaldarian migration from the south, the Emerald Knights and the work being done to contain encroaching evil from the Dark Hand. These stories have been filling my head. I think I may venture south to those lands and see what I may be able to learn and contribute. As the seasons are turning, this may be a good time to see what lies to the south of Shard

The Code

On the early evening of 441 years, 362 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer, I met with Pack Protector Warbrolus Noq'Myth in the Crossing guild hall. He has been gracious enough to take me as his squire and teach me more deeply the paladin ways. One task he gave me last andu was to find the written Paladin Code. After many days of long travel, I finally located the code and had sent word to him that I had completed this task. Our meeting this evening was for me to discuss with him what I had found. This night, he found me in the Chambers of the guild hall praying to Chadatru. As I stood up, he greeted me, and I arose saluting him briskly. Without a moment’s hesitation, he asked for a report on my studies. So, I appraised him of my work training my spiritual, mental and physical aspects. I reported on the lessons learnt working with others in groups to defend good and my discovery of limitations. He stressed to me the importance of understanding my limitations as being incredibly important. He then retold his recent reminder adventure with the Northern Watch and the lessons taught to him. It was quite interesting to hear his thoughts and come to understand that the learning does not stop even when you advance so far in the guild. I suppose that is why this work is a path and not a destination. Important for me to keep that in mind. Warbrolus then asked me to show him where I found the code. So, I took him there. Upon arriving he smiled broadly at me, and I began to recite the code that I had labored to memorize. We then began to discuss the code which really challenged me, and he helped to explain some subtle aspects by asking me questions. I think these questions were to gauge how deeply I had been thinking of the code. I know that I’m only beginning to understand what is expected of me. It is important to remind myself, this is a path, not a destination. After almost an anlas discussing the code, he encouraged me and discussed my next steps. We discussed working to obtain a holy weapon. Upon concluding that conversation, there was a long pause. At first, I felt judged deeply as he looked me over to see how I fared. I expect he was checking to see if I had the indeed braced the ways and represent the guild in a fashion typical for a new paladin and behave accordingly. The silence was, I think a test, to see if I was patient. I recall Khurek once telling me about silence. If I recall his words correctly he said, “Wise men, when in doubt whether to speak or to keep quiet, give themselves the benefit of the doubt, and remain silent.” So I did just that. Then to my complete surprise, he presented me with a weapon to use in the quest. Beyond words, I could not express my gratitude or appreciation of such an honor. He shared the history of this weapon and how fond of it that he was. He told me it’s history and meaning to him. It is an incredible gift and I only hope to be worthy of wielding it. Finally, in a typical fashion I’m becoming to appreciate of Warbrolus we went hunting. Seems talking and doing are separate things and he wanted to see how the blade worked in my hands. We took to the wilds and began slaying creatures. The weapon worked smoothly as I handled it. Deftly cutting, chopping and slicing the adversaries before me. I reverted to childish ways and began to complain of fatigue. He would have nothing of it encouraging me forward using my glyph of ease and changing my tactics. It was a valuable lesson and though not at the time much appreciated because of the ache in my bones, time has let me absorb the importance of the time spent together. It was a glorious evening in my life and am so thankful Warbrolus and my paths have been joined in this point of my life.

Crossing's Sewers

Spend the past andu and a half, engaged in rooting out the ruffians hiding in Crossing’s sewers. They are a sorted lot of petty thugs, cutthroats and footpads. They were easily dispatched by the guiding hand of Chadtru on my blade though. As we battled, the lawless kept calling out to Idon for support. It made me hesitate as they reminded me how do we end up on these paths of life. Contrasting my work with what these criminals have chosen as their work. As we clashed, I came to the awareness that evil isn’t necessarily a thing. Things are not evil in themselves. For instance, a sword is not evil. Even the stroke of a sword that chops off your head is not evil in its being. In fact, unless it is a good stroke, it will not chop off your head. Where is the evil? Its in the will and the choice, which puts a wrong order into the physical world. How did these criminals start down the path away from what is good to evil? How do we help others avoid a similar fate? There is still so much to learn. I only hope that my work continues to help me understand this world. One final thought to share is the sewers are much to be avoided. The rank smell and sludge got into every crevice of my amor and soaked my pores. It took hours to properly clean my equipment and several hours in the bathhouse to rid me of the taint of that place. Though admittedly, the bathhouses were a hospitable respite from the many hours of work. I now plan to head towards the wilderness north of Arthe Dale. I hope that fresh air will return my sense of smell to normal. The plan is to spend some time in quite study reading and reflecting on my chosen path. End of report.

Blueberry Fields

During the past andu and a half, I have taken to the helping the monastery in their blueberry fields. After coming upon a Brother on my patrols that mentioned problems with skunks and granite gargoyles. I leant my sword into their service. As I spent many taxing days slaying the infestation, I began to reflect on my motives. Specifically, the question about what is good? Finally, after several days thinking about the question, I saw a tabby cat cornered by a fox along a fence row and an answer was revealed to me. Remembering the code, I intervened and scared the fox away, freeing the cornered cat. I then recalled eavesdropping on a priest lecturing a young cleric, about how the gods teach wisdom through suffering. He quoted an ancient text that said; Day by day, hour by hour Pain drips upon the heart As, against our will and even in our own despite Comes wisdom It was at that time, I recognized that freeing the cat was a kind act but not necessarily a good act. My actions ran the fox off but cheated the cat of learning how to get out the situation on its own merit. Then I realized, kindness is wanting to free others from pain. But without pain, such as hunger, illness, ignorance, or weakness what would drive me. The more deeply we love, the more we go beyond kindness. I see parents that are kind to other children, but are more demanding of their own. Thus my realization it is more noble to do good, then simply be kind. So coming to that understanding, I have left the monks to solve their own problems. While my efforts were kind, they were not necessarily good. The infestation of their fields is not fleeting. They should make the effort to improve the stone walls to keep their enemies away. My efforts only delay their own realization of the problems they have. So I have moved on and seek out more opportunities to do good. Rumors of thugs, ruffians and cutthroats in Crossing have peaked my interest and I plan to investigate. End of report.

Goblins at the Gate

My training continues as I answered a call to arms when I heard the voices yelling about Goblins at Crossing’s northeast gate. Grabbed my sword and shield and raced to answer. Inadvertently, I may have bumped a poor traveler to the ground in my haste running through the streets. As I went through the gates going blindly into the mayhem, there were all kinds of goblins that I have never seen before. It was so overwhelming I froze as I gathered my wits. It’s as if Rutilor himself spoke to me on the whisper of the wind reminding me of the code. A paladin is a protector. Then as I saw, Alaxndr engaged with four goblins and knew what I must do. I advanced to the front into the unknown. Then upon arriving was immediately surrounded by goblins. Ashamed to admit though, I considering fleeing. Then as if the same whispers filled my head with the code, I was reminded of the code. When it is necessary to fight, I will take a forward position in the battle, facing the foe boldly. This cleared my head of the doubts and I committed to the fight before me. Knowing that the empaths Kethrai, Kaelie and Koryn, were fully engaged did strengthen my resolve. Ultimately after reconciling myself to retreating not being an option the rest was a blur. Memories etched into my mind do include valiant acts of bravery and skillful work of some of the defenders. Like seeing a goblin marauder moving like a goshawk, slice at Salvitoriel’s stomach slicing it open. But there was no stopping him. He recovered and driving in like the overwhelming force of a hurricane, swinging has maul landing an awesome strike killing the vile creature. Another sight etched in my mind was that of Alaxndr as graceful as a mongoose. He is definitely a master combatant using his maul. He landed an earth-shaking strike completely destroying a goblin’s shoulders and back. Briefly there were glimpse of Mol fighting with his bare hands. Hitting them with precision strikes and deft moves that reminded me of what I could hope to achieve one day. If a display such of that doesn’t give one confidence, I don’t know what would. It was quite a sight to see. One day, I hope I will be occupying the battleground as adeptly as those warriors. Fortunately Kaelie, Kethrai and Korya were there tending the wounded and casting their spells to calm the attackers. Honestly, without their help it would have been a different ending likely resulting in the deaths of the defenders. I could go on. But having finally cleared the gate and surrounding trails the vanquished Goblins were gone. The carnage on the battlefield was stunning. That is the end of report I suppose. The lesson learned is follow the code. Rutilor shines his light on those that live to the code.