{"submission_id":"1509561","keywords":[{"keyword_id":"743","keyword_name":"adventure","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"2922"},{"keyword_id":"10728","keyword_name":"english","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"256"},{"keyword_id":"123","keyword_name":"female","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"520694"},{"keyword_id":"11895","keyword_name":"finnish","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"59"},{"keyword_id":"2791","keyword_name":"implied rape","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"191"},{"keyword_id":"1406","keyword_name":"injury","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"375"},{"keyword_id":"165","keyword_name":"male","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"640347"},{"keyword_id":"4196","keyword_name":"medieval","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"815"},{"keyword_id":"1537","keyword_name":"mythology","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"496"},{"keyword_id":"185","keyword_name":"squirrel","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"15590"},{"keyword_id":"164","keyword_name":"wolf","contributed":"f","submissions_count":"111575"}],"hidden":"f","scraps":"f","favorite":"f","favorites_count":"0","create_datetime":"2017-12-28 09:28:45.90369+01","create_datetime_usertime":"28 Dec 2017 09:28 CET","last_file_update_datetime":"2017-12-28 09:15:46.682676+01","last_file_update_datetime_usertime":"28 Dec 2017 09:15 CET","username":"Astia","user_id":"373196","user_icon_file_name":"108661_Astia_astia_avatar2.png","user_icon_url_large":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/usericons/large/108/108661_Astia_astia_avatar2.png","user_icon_url_medium":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/usericons/medium/108/108661_Astia_astia_avatar2.png","user_icon_url_small":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/usericons/small/108/108661_Astia_astia_avatar2.png","file_name":"2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_full":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/full/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_screen":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/screen/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_preview":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/preview/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","thumbnail_url_huge":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumbnail_url_large":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumbnail_url_medium":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumb_huge_x":"300","thumb_huge_y":"299","thumb_large_x":"200","thumb_large_y":"199","thumb_medium_x":"120","thumb_medium_y":"120","files":[{"file_id":"2138453","file_name":"2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_full":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/full/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_screen":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/screen/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","file_url_preview":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/files/preview/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.doc","mimetype":"application/msword","submission_id":"1509561","user_id":"373196","submission_file_order":"0","full_size_x":null,"full_size_y":null,"screen_size_x":null,"screen_size_y":null,"preview_size_x":null,"preview_size_y":null,"initial_file_md5":"b910a27a9dd18af37198da7fee94f309","full_file_md5":"b910a27a9dd18af37198da7fee94f309","large_file_md5":"","small_file_md5":"","thumbnail_md5":"1a2fd57e81c319560344c08287e9c40a","deleted":"f","create_datetime":"2017-12-28 09:15:46.682676+01","create_datetime_usertime":"28 Dec 2017 09:15 CET","thumbnail_url_huge":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumbnail_url_large":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumbnail_url_medium":"https://nl.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2138/2138453_Astia_suojasta_ikiroudan.jpg","thumb_huge_x":"300","thumb_huge_y":"299","thumb_large_x":"200","thumb_large_y":"199","thumb_medium_x":"120","thumb_medium_y":"120"}],"pools":[],"description":"First chapter of a story. Originally intended as some background lore for a certain character, it since develop into... more. \n\nThe setting is medieval, bronze-age Finland. Locations and names are fictional, as are depictions of characters. However, some deities and beings are either taken or are inspired by Finnish mythology.\n\nThere is also a light dose of bilingual bonus to those who understand Finnish - mainly in some names and other things.\n\nAs I said, this is the first chapter. It works as a standalone for future stories - I have general outline and some characters fleshed out in my mind. However, if there is no or very little interest in continuing this, I shall place it behind my other projects. Also, I can only write when I'm inspired to do so, and I like to protect my stories in a sense that I try to avoid mediocre or lackluster content. Not that I'm a great writer, but I'd rather spare everyone's time.\n\nIf you would like some more stories from me, feel free to leave a comment. If there are questions about this one in particular... shoot. I'll answer sometime, perhaps.\n\nOtherwise... enjoy!","description_bbcode_parsed":"First chapter of a story. Originally intended as some background lore for a certain character, it since develop into... more.

The setting is medieval, bronze-age Finland. Locations and names are fictional, as are depictions of characters. However, some deities and beings are either taken or are inspired by Finnish mythology.

There is also a light dose of bilingual bonus to those who understand Finnish - mainly in some names and other things.

As I said, this is the first chapter. It works as a standalone for future stories - I have general outline and some characters fleshed out in my mind. However, if there is no or very little interest in continuing this, I shall place it behind my other projects. Also, I can only write when I'm inspired to do so, and I like to protect my stories in a sense that I try to avoid mediocre or lackluster content. Not that I'm a great writer, but I'd rather spare everyone's time.

If you would like some more stories from me, feel free to leave a comment. If there are questions about this one in particular... shoot. I'll answer sometime, perhaps.

Otherwise... enjoy!","writing":"[center][b]Angst[/b][/center]\n\n Angst is ever-present, an enemy and a friend. Angst is what you avoid, but angst is also necessary to survive. Through his past, his present and his future, he will fight his angst. It is his first opponent and his final boss. \n\nAmidst the lakes and snow-covered treetops lies a small, sleepy village housing few beings of various trades. A marketplace, small but lively, is located right at the lakefront. From there, women and men, old and young, sell their wares to traveling merchants in exchange from goods and coin. The boats are small, and the winds weak. From the boats, two warriors emerge; one old and scarred, other young and cocky. In their strong, fur-covered hands is a plank, a makeshift shield for the lack of a better spare. And on top of the plank-shield lies a squirrel, unusually tall and heavily bandaged. His vest is cut, blood sprouting from smaller cuts. His eyes are open and empty, blank stare indicating a faint glimmer of life. \n\n\"One of yours, I believe...\", the older, wolf-like man says to one of the ladies. The lady nods, looking solemnly at the squirrel, sighing. \"Is he...?\", the question unvoiced clear from her eyes. \"No, ma'am. Still alive, barely. A small miracle, that. We found him behind a tavern, where few of our men were spending a night. Scarred and bleeding, his injuries were... Well, I am not going to lie. He was in a dreadful shape.\" \n\n- \"Who did this to him?\", she inquired, clenching her weak fist. \n\n- \"We don't know. Nor is it any of our business, quite frankly. All we know is that the people there were less than keen to aid him. From what I gather...\" The older man paused, looking down. \"He was left there on purpose... To meet his demise.\" \n\nThe villagers looked on curiously, whispering among each other. One approached near, taking a closer look. They were soon followed by others, until all life in the marketplace focused around the plank, a wounded squirrel, his grieving mother and the two canines. One sailor, holstering a cutlass on his belt, pressed his advantage and approached a nearby food stand with evil intentions. He was stopped by another, a swift slap on the wrist following. \"Watch yourself, Ivan\", he warned. The man looked at his fellow angrily, but agreed. \"Show some respect\", he said to Ivan, who in turn looked away, defeated. All of this gathered no attention, for the village was stopped on the news on one of their kin. \n\n[center][b]Captain[/b][/center]\n\nHe had left a long time ago, and now he had returned, but not like they hoped. Their fears turned true, some of them started to already prepare for the worst. After all, he looked like he would not return to them. They knew that look, they've seen it before. In the eyes of those later lost, either voyaging to the great beyond, toward the gates of Tuonela, or meeting a fate even worse. Those are not talked of, among the people. They know. Even the little ones. And for the one coming back, from his lost stare, from the gory state of his once-fine, even handsome looks... They wondered if they should show mercy. \n\nBut one stood strong, holding back most of the tears. One stood tall, far taller than her short stature would seem. Her aura was strong, her mind filled with fortitude. \"For how long must I fight?\", she asked herself briefly, then turned to the captain. \n\n\"Very well. Thank you for bringing him back. And for your care. I shall forever be in your debt\", she said, placing her paws on the wolf's. \"Please, tell me your name\", she pleaded. \n\n\"Nestehukka. Captain Nestehukka, madam.\" \n\n She paused, taking a step back. So did the others. Someone gasped, others started whispering among themselves. Whispers soon turned into general murmurs and shouts most vile, directed towards the captain. He did not turn, just smiled, closing his eyes. \"I understand your reaction\", he said, turning to address the villagers. \"I am very aware among my reputation, although surprised it extends this far. But rest assured, I - nor my men - intend you no harm. We only came here to browse your wares, not to loot and pillage or whatever your fears are. And...\", he paused, gesturing towards the wounded, \"Return one of your kind.\"\n\n They stood. Some nodded. The sailors started to gather around and behind their captain, crossing their hands in front of them, the ones who had their heads covered taking off their helmets or hats. Only Nestehukka still wore his, made of iron, dented and worn. The wind picked up, the sun starting to set. Clouds, previously far, started getting closer, their shadows casting the lake dark and gloomy. Some of the sailors looked around, whispering. \n\n\"And for that, we thank you\", one of the villagers finally spoke. Sailors and locals alike turned and looked, the crowd parting as he stepped forward. He, too, was an older man, about as old as the captain. He had soft fur and paws, a weathered, wrinkled face. His eyes were kind, his clothes heavy and woven from sturdy-looking fabric. He carried no weapons to speak of, only a small puukko on his belt, much like almost every other villager. \n\n\"Please\", he continued, addressing the people. \"Allow a second chance. Although we know of the calamities this man has committed, they are surely in the past. For years, there have not been any news. It could very well be that he has realized the folly of his ways, the error of his procedure. To make amends, so to speak, and to live and prosper in lawful ways.\" \n\n- \"Indeed it is so\", captain responded solemnly. \"Forgive me, for I have raised my paw many times against the innocent. Even against your kind\", he added, looking down. \n\n- \"Murderer! Criminal!\", cried a voice from the crowd. Some agreed, villagers nodding. \n\nThe captain stood, looking down. A sailor stepped forward, ready to defend his captain. Nestehukka stopped him. \"No. Let them speak, for it is the truth. My past was filled with crime, injustice, of acts most heinous.\" He looked up, tired eyes meeting the elders, who had gathered in front of their people, next to the wounded and his mother. \"But surely, you must know of the tales. Some of them are forged, rest assured. Others, however, are true. But I have not come here to remind you of my existence\", he added, looking more stern.\n\n \"I am here to make amends. And I sincerely hope that you let my men and myself to trade and enjoy your hospitality in the future, too. It is difficult, I know. Still... I... We don't have many places to go. We are not accepted, and that I understand. How could you, when I have mindlessly slaughtered many in my misguided beliefs? When I have taken their wives, raped their daughters, killed their sons in futile combat? When countless men have either joined me or expired fighting against me? But those times are long past. And the greatest injustice of it all\", he finally said, taking his sword from its sheath, \"Is that I was never punished for the blood spilled on this blade, by this blade, for this blade.\" He run his paw along the surface, darkened sky and heavy clouds joining his pale, yellow eyes and grey fur. \n\nThe crowd stood silent, the sailors at attention. The mother placed his paw on the chest of his son, who laid motionless. Everyone looked at the captain, still wary. \n\n\"But\", he started once more, voice booming, intimidating. \"I shall make amends!\", he repeated. \"And I shall see personally that the future for him\", he gestured to the wounded, \"Shall be secure. That he will be treated with the finest of doctors and the rarest of ailments, for I personally owe him.\" Everyone gasped. \"That's right. I'm afraid I spoke with a false tongue at first to you, ma'am\", he added to the lady. \"But I could not bring myself to say it at first. That is right, he was on a mission. For me. Personally. To uncover the most sacred of artifacts, and to uncover it by all means necessary. And this artifact, the holy book... It teaches of ways cruel and violent\", he added. \n\nPeople listened, some shedding a tear. They knew exactly what he was on about. \"And as such... I fear the power may consume me. To turn be back to my ways of the past. So instead of studying it, to expand my power even further, I have decided to leave it. In a place most secure, among people who know what to do with it.\" He gestured to the younger, cocky man alongside him, who went back to the boat. \n\nHe brought a book that looked old and worn, a book placed in legends. And a book surprisingly small, small enough to fit inside a coat pocket comfortably. The village elders stepped back, knowing of its power. Nestehukka shook his head. \"Come forward, ye wise. Take this bewitched object from my paws before I change my mind!\", he called. Thunder boomed in the distance, lightning clearly visible against the darkened skies. \n\n[center][b]Caring[/b][/center]\n\nMartti, the village elder who spoke earlier, finally stepped and extended his paw. \"Very well, captain. We shall take utmost care, place this in a location nobody could hope to breach. We are not sure whether to thank or curse you for your gift, for it is certainly one that comes with heaviest of responsibilities. But...\", he paused. \"We will do our best\", he smiled with that kind yet worried look on his face. \n\n- \"So shall it be!\", Nestehukka boomed. He raised his sword against the skies. \"I will forever be in your debt! Here\", the wolf gestured, his sword pointing to his boat. \"Are my amends.\" Two sailors brought a box, wrapped in leather. It looked heavy, the men struggling to carry it. \"Coin\", he says. \"Coin and gold, ailments and bandages. Only of the finest kind.\" Crowd gasped once more, necks extending forward to take a closer look. \"You, ma'am. For you. For the care of your son. He has suffered for me, and he will suffer more. In ways more than one, I fear.\" Leila, the mother, stepped up, staying at the side of her son. \n\n- \"I shall accept your amends\", she staid firmly. \"I have only one son, and I am relieved to hear he will receive care better than my humble resources could ever provide. As for you, captain\", she said, pausing. \"Begone. Your ways, we are aware of them. And while you have come bearing good word and actions most kind, we cannot accept them as pure. The fact that you seek greater power, even greater than before, is only proof of your twisted nature. As such, your kind is not needed here. As for what you did to my son...\" She looked down. He was battered, beaten, his eyes unsure of what they might be seeing. He did not recognize his own mother, at least not in his present state. \n\n - \"He accepted the mission on his own...\", the captain said. \"Even after I told him of the dangers\", he added. \n\n - \"Even so, it is solely your responsibility. And I see you have paid tribute, which only goes to assure me that you feel guilty.\" \n\n - \"I can see it in your eyes that your will is strong. No wonder your son was so brave\", Nestehukka said. \"Very well. I shall take my leave and seek faith and trust elsewhere.\" Thunder clapped nearby. \n\n``Even If sailing in this weather is less than advisable...\", he continued. \"I am sure that Ahti shall take care of me and my men. At least of my men...\" \n\n With that, the sailors and Nestehukka left. In the shore stood Leila, finally breaking into tears. The villagers collected their wares. Rain fell quick, forcing them to hurry. Only Leila and Martti stood, the former still crying hopelessly. \"Oh, what will I do\", she sobbed, against the shoulder of Martti. \"My poor son...\" \n\n - \"Come, let's take him inside. Better here than in the rain...\" \n\n - \"Yes, yes... You are right...\" \n\nLeila lifted, but her arms trembled. She fell to her knee once more. It was as if the sky itself shared her sorrow. Another villager came and helped Martti carry the wounded one inside, to the doctor. \n\nVeikko was old and weak, wrinkly and depended on his small cane to move around. But wise he was, wise and well-learned, in one famous academy at the Eastern Kingdom. Their knowledge of the art of medicine far exceeded the locals, and he had spent many years far away, practicing his craft. But in his elder years, he had returned home, to the surprise and joy of many - at least those few who still remembered him, knew of him. \n\nNow, as one of the village elders, he continued to take care of the sick and wounded to the best of his ability. He had taken on a trainee to learn the art of medicine and the ways to mend his kin. She was pretty, yet often sad. Her black eyes were large and filled with expression, her heart pure, almost naive. They say she was of noble birth, and came from a castle far away. She did not mention the subject, dancing elegantly around it in her elaborate ways. \n\n[center][b]Sans Sun[/b][/center]\n\nViki woke up. It was night. This was not unusual to him. The room was hot, fireplace very much on. He felt rested but... so very odd. It was like he had waken up from an odd dream. Everything felt familiar, and soon he realized that this must be home. But... how? And to what end? \n\n -\"Veikko!\", a lady's voice cried. \"He has awoken! Go get Leila!\" And they came. Veikko, the elder doctor whom Viki had only briefly seen before setting off. Leila, his mother. Oh mother, who had taken such good care of him. And this one young lady, who was beautiful, almost like a goddess. Her voice was elegant, her features pure and untouched, her eyes deep. \"Viki! Oh, how happy I am to... To see you... We thought you'd never...\" Leila collapsed to her knees, sobbing against the scarred and ruffled chest of his son, who closed his trembling arms on him. Others looked on, Veikko curiously and the younger lady smiling warmly. \n\n\"So I am home\", he started, his voice weak and raspy, so very unlike his usual tone. \"Or I'm still dreaming. Either way, this is a surprise\", Viki continued. Leila looked at him with surprise, Veikko stepped forward. \n\n - \"Yes, you are home and no, this is not a dream. The captain brought you here.\" \n\n - \"Ah, so he did fill his promise. Very well. Say, did he mention anything... else?\" \n\nVeikko stood there, silent, shooting a silent look at Leila and the younger lady. \n\n - \"What do you mean?\" \n\n - \"Any details, anything... else. Did he leave anything here?\" \n\n - \"Ah... He said you were found behind a tavern, in a state most sore. Scarred, bleeding... among other things.\" Violated, he added to himself. Best that he doesn't know, he though. Nor anyone else. But he could clearly see that his wounds were not only physical in nature. \"He left us with coin and ailments for your care, of the finest kind and aplenty.\" \n\n - \"I see. And nothing else?\" \n\nThey paused once more. \n\n -\"Nothing noteworthy\", Veikko finally said, Leila turning around but then smiled at his son. Some things are best left secret; his nature always was unpredictable. And resolute. Who knows what he might do, even in his current state, shall he find out about the artifact. \n\n- \"Hm. Very well. And... how long was I...?\" \n\n- \"Half a moon\", Veikko replied. \"We almost lost hope.\" Leila sniffled. \"Your mother was very worried.\"\n\n- \"Ahh. I'm still tired...\", Viki said. \"Will I recover, doctor?\" \n\n- \"Your wounds are healed, your bones mended. To our surprise, none were badly broken. You will need to rest for some time, but as far as I'm concerned... You will make a full recovery.\" Leila smiled, so did the girl. It was a relief indeed to see him up. \n\n- \"That... That is good\", Viki answered drowsily. He soon drifted back to sleep. \n\n\"Come, we better leave him be\", Veikko said. \"Best not to disrupt his rest. It will take time, before he is fully healed.\" With that, they left. \n\n\"The patient is surprisingly fit physically\", Veikko wrote to his diary. \"But I am unsure whether he can ever be mended... mentally. He speaks in his sleep, in tones fearful but also... violent. His stare still wanders, although I have assured his mother that it is normal for patients who had suffered greatly. And in a way, it is true. However, this is... this is different.\n\nI spoke with Martti and the others today. They are afraid that his suffering has only started. I must agree. But... there is still hope. At least he can speak understandably, and his intelligence seems to not have suffered. Maybe the balance will come.\" \n\n[center][b]Those Left Behind[/b][/center]\n\nWent a week, then two. Viki started to slowly get up, only during nighttime. He no longer needed to be taken care of or washed, he was capable of doing that himself. He requested books and scripts, to read and to learn. He wanted to see his clothes and weapons, which he was provided. His hunting bow, battered, and a single arrow. A leather west, worn and beaten. \"All you had in you\", Martti assured. \"Captain mentioned something about a script, but that was lost, along with...\" He paused. \"Along with your necklace, I'm afraid.\" He looked solemn. The necklace had traveled in Viki's family for generations. He took it when he left, the only son, perhaps the last in line with no children. Viki nodded solemnly, sighing. \n\n- \"Then I will recover it.\" \n\n- \"That is insane. We don't even know where it could be... You were found far, and you are still weak\", Martti protested. \"Besides, think of your mother. You need to stay and rest. Perhaps a traveling merchant has found it. Or someone else. But the hopes of finding it are slim, even if you left right now. And besides, captain said you had made enemies of that village. As for how, I don't know. But it is best you stay. For you, and... for us.\" \n\nThe fire burned in Viki's brown eyes, a glint unseen before. His eye twitched. Martti stared, intimidated. He put his head down, clenching his fist much like his mother had when he was brought to the shore. \"So it may be. You are right... It would be foolish.\" \n\nA week from there, and the bed was empty. His robes were left on the stool, the worn leather armor gone along with the bow and arrow. Ailments and coin were left intact, surprisingly. A note was found on the desk, and it read: \n\n[i]\"Dear Mother, \n\nI always loved you, and always will. Tell Veikko and the lady whose name escapes me that their care was very good, and thank them for me. I shall leave the coin to the village, along with the ailments, for there are those who will need them. Such is life, cruel and unjust. I have something I lost, and I must go and recover it. That, and there are ways of mine who would not fit my home, but are needed. My desires need fulfilling, the divine calls. And I must answer, for I am their servant, for I owe them. \n\nDo not seek me. It is foolish of me to leave, but it will be doubly so for you to follow. Where I survive, perhaps none other will. We are not warriors, and we shall not become that due to my ways. And I shall forever avoid mentioning my home, if I ever make enemies again. Evil shall avoid us, much like we have avoided it successfully for generations past. \n\nMy sincere hope is for the better future. For yourself, for the home I love, for the people who live there. I cannot stay. I do hope you understand, but I don't expect it nor require it. My path is that of my own, one that I shall forge with sweat and tears. From the dark and lonely, from the unending forests and treacherous swamps shall I find home. From the trees I seek shelter, and the frost shall be my ally. I shall be guided by the divine, of higher power, who speaks to me in ways you would not understand. For as long as I fulfill Their desires, they shall reward me with purity and strength to carry on my quest. \n\nWith that, I have to also apologize to you, mother. For I may be the last of my family, and I know that I am your only son. I hope I could've done you proud and made us prosper. Instead, I had to escape like a criminal, even after the care you showed me. I rewarded your pure hearts and unwavering support with unsure feelings and heavy hearts. And heavy is the weight of the responsibility I left you with, too. Yes, I know about the artifact, the sacred writings of the most holy and divine. While you looked away, sure I was asleep, I took it upon myself to seek and to learn of it, from it, by it. The voice spoke to me, and its teachings were absolute. Oh mother, never have I felt so certain as I did on that moment, for They showed me the light. And that light I shall follow, as but a humble servant, until the end of time. \n\nFarewell, \n\n-Viki\"[/i]\n\n","writing_bbcode_parsed":"
Angst


 Angst is ever-present, an enemy and a friend. Angst is what you avoid, but angst is also necessary to survive. Through his past, his present and his future, he will fight his angst. It is his first opponent and his final boss.

Amidst the lakes and snow-covered treetops lies a small, sleepy village housing few beings of various trades. A marketplace, small but lively, is located right at the lakefront. From there, women and men, old and young, sell their wares to traveling merchants in exchange from goods and coin. The boats are small, and the winds weak. From the boats, two warriors emerge; one old and scarred, other young and cocky. In their strong, fur-covered hands is a plank, a makeshift shield for the lack of a better spare. And on top of the plank-shield lies a squirrel, unusually tall and heavily bandaged. His vest is cut, blood sprouting from smaller cuts. His eyes are open and empty, blank stare indicating a faint glimmer of life.

"One of yours, I believe...", the older, wolf-like man says to one of the ladies. The lady nods, looking solemnly at the squirrel, sighing. "Is he...?", the question unvoiced clear from her eyes. "No, ma'am. Still alive, barely. A small miracle, that. We found him behind a tavern, where few of our men were spending a night. Scarred and bleeding, his injuries were... Well, I am not going to lie. He was in a dreadful shape."

- "Who did this to him?", she inquired, clenching her weak fist.

- "We don't know. Nor is it any of our business, quite frankly. All we know is that the people there were less than keen to aid him. From what I gather..." The older man paused, looking down. "He was left there on purpose... To meet his demise."

The villagers looked on curiously, whispering among each other. One approached near, taking a closer look. They were soon followed by others, until all life in the marketplace focused around the plank, a wounded squirrel, his grieving mother and the two canines. One sailor, holstering a cutlass on his belt, pressed his advantage and approached a nearby food stand with evil intentions. He was stopped by another, a swift slap on the wrist following. "Watch yourself, Ivan", he warned. The man looked at his fellow angrily, but agreed. "Show some respect", he said to Ivan, who in turn looked away, defeated. All of this gathered no attention, for the village was stopped on the news on one of their kin.

Captain


He had left a long time ago, and now he had returned, but not like they hoped. Their fears turned true, some of them started to already prepare for the worst. After all, he looked like he would not return to them. They knew that look, they've seen it before. In the eyes of those later lost, either voyaging to the great beyond, toward the gates of Tuonela, or meeting a fate even worse. Those are not talked of, among the people. They know. Even the little ones. And for the one coming back, from his lost stare, from the gory state of his once-fine, even handsome looks... They wondered if they should show mercy.

But one stood strong, holding back most of the tears. One stood tall, far taller than her short stature would seem. Her aura was strong, her mind filled with fortitude. "For how long must I fight?", she asked herself briefly, then turned to the captain.

"Very well. Thank you for bringing him back. And for your care. I shall forever be in your debt", she said, placing her paws on the wolf's. "Please, tell me your name", she pleaded.

"Nestehukka. Captain Nestehukka, madam."

 She paused, taking a step back. So did the others. Someone gasped, others started whispering among themselves. Whispers soon turned into general murmurs and shouts most vile, directed towards the captain. He did not turn, just smiled, closing his eyes. "I understand your reaction", he said, turning to address the villagers. "I am very aware among my reputation, although surprised it extends this far. But rest assured, I - nor my men - intend you no harm. We only came here to browse your wares, not to loot and pillage or whatever your fears are. And...", he paused, gesturing towards the wounded, "Return one of your kind."

 They stood. Some nodded. The sailors started to gather around and behind their captain, crossing their hands in front of them, the ones who had their heads covered taking off their helmets or hats. Only Nestehukka still wore his, made of iron, dented and worn. The wind picked up, the sun starting to set. Clouds, previously far, started getting closer, their shadows casting the lake dark and gloomy. Some of the sailors looked around, whispering.

"And for that, we thank you", one of the villagers finally spoke. Sailors and locals alike turned and looked, the crowd parting as he stepped forward. He, too, was an older man, about as old as the captain. He had soft fur and paws, a weathered, wrinkled face. His eyes were kind, his clothes heavy and woven from sturdy-looking fabric. He carried no weapons to speak of, only a small puukko on his belt, much like almost every other villager.

"Please", he continued, addressing the people. "Allow a second chance. Although we know of the calamities this man has committed, they are surely in the past. For years, there have not been any news. It could very well be that he has realized the folly of his ways, the error of his procedure. To make amends, so to speak, and to live and prosper in lawful ways."

- "Indeed it is so", captain responded solemnly. "Forgive me, for I have raised my paw many times against the innocent. Even against your kind", he added, looking down.

- "Murderer! Criminal!", cried a voice from the crowd. Some agreed, villagers nodding.

The captain stood, looking down. A sailor stepped forward, ready to defend his captain. Nestehukka stopped him. "No. Let them speak, for it is the truth. My past was filled with crime, injustice, of acts most heinous." He looked up, tired eyes meeting the elders, who had gathered in front of their people, next to the wounded and his mother. "But surely, you must know of the tales. Some of them are forged, rest assured. Others, however, are true. But I have not come here to remind you of my existence", he added, looking more stern.

 "I am here to make amends. And I sincerely hope that you let my men and myself to trade and enjoy your hospitality in the future, too. It is difficult, I know. Still... I... We don't have many places to go. We are not accepted, and that I understand. How could you, when I have mindlessly slaughtered many in my misguided beliefs? When I have taken their wives, raped their daughters, killed their sons in futile combat? When countless men have either joined me or expired fighting against me? But those times are long past. And the greatest injustice of it all", he finally said, taking his sword from its sheath, "Is that I was never punished for the blood spilled on this blade, by this blade, for this blade." He run his paw along the surface, darkened sky and heavy clouds joining his pale, yellow eyes and grey fur.

The crowd stood silent, the sailors at attention. The mother placed his paw on the chest of his son, who laid motionless. Everyone looked at the captain, still wary.

"But", he started once more, voice booming, intimidating. "I shall make amends!", he repeated. "And I shall see personally that the future for him", he gestured to the wounded, "Shall be secure. That he will be treated with the finest of doctors and the rarest of ailments, for I personally owe him." Everyone gasped. "That's right. I'm afraid I spoke with a false tongue at first to you, ma'am", he added to the lady. "But I could not bring myself to say it at first. That is right, he was on a mission. For me. Personally. To uncover the most sacred of artifacts, and to uncover it by all means necessary. And this artifact, the holy book... It teaches of ways cruel and violent", he added.

People listened, some shedding a tear. They knew exactly what he was on about. "And as such... I fear the power may consume me. To turn be back to my ways of the past. So instead of studying it, to expand my power even further, I have decided to leave it. In a place most secure, among people who know what to do with it." He gestured to the younger, cocky man alongside him, who went back to the boat.

He brought a book that looked old and worn, a book placed in legends. And a book surprisingly small, small enough to fit inside a coat pocket comfortably. The village elders stepped back, knowing of its power. Nestehukka shook his head. "Come forward, ye wise. Take this bewitched object from my paws before I change my mind!", he called. Thunder boomed in the distance, lightning clearly visible against the darkened skies.

Caring


Martti, the village elder who spoke earlier, finally stepped and extended his paw. "Very well, captain. We shall take utmost care, place this in a location nobody could hope to breach. We are not sure whether to thank or curse you for your gift, for it is certainly one that comes with heaviest of responsibilities. But...", he paused. "We will do our best", he smiled with that kind yet worried look on his face.

- "So shall it be!", Nestehukka boomed. He raised his sword against the skies. "I will forever be in your debt! Here", the wolf gestured, his sword pointing to his boat. "Are my amends." Two sailors brought a box, wrapped in leather. It looked heavy, the men struggling to carry it. "Coin", he says. "Coin and gold, ailments and bandages. Only of the finest kind." Crowd gasped once more, necks extending forward to take a closer look. "You, ma'am. For you. For the care of your son. He has suffered for me, and he will suffer more. In ways more than one, I fear." Leila, the mother, stepped up, staying at the side of her son.

- "I shall accept your amends", she staid firmly. "I have only one son, and I am relieved to hear he will receive care better than my humble resources could ever provide. As for you, captain", she said, pausing. "Begone. Your ways, we are aware of them. And while you have come bearing good word and actions most kind, we cannot accept them as pure. The fact that you seek greater power, even greater than before, is only proof of your twisted nature. As such, your kind is not needed here. As for what you did to my son..." She looked down. He was battered, beaten, his eyes unsure of what they might be seeing. He did not recognize his own mother, at least not in his present state.

 - "He accepted the mission on his own...", the captain said. "Even after I told him of the dangers", he added.

 - "Even so, it is solely your responsibility. And I see you have paid tribute, which only goes to assure me that you feel guilty."

 - "I can see it in your eyes that your will is strong. No wonder your son was so brave", Nestehukka said. "Very well. I shall take my leave and seek faith and trust elsewhere." Thunder clapped nearby.        

``Even If sailing in this weather is less than advisable...", he continued. "I am sure that Ahti shall take care of me and my men. At least of my men..."

 With that, the sailors and Nestehukka left. In the shore stood Leila, finally breaking into tears. The villagers collected their wares. Rain fell quick, forcing them to hurry. Only Leila and Martti stood, the former still crying hopelessly. "Oh, what will I do", she sobbed, against the shoulder of Martti. "My poor son..."

 - "Come, let's take him inside. Better here than in the rain..."

 - "Yes, yes... You are right..."

Leila lifted, but her arms trembled. She fell to her knee once more. It was as if the sky itself shared her sorrow. Another villager came and helped Martti carry the wounded one inside, to the doctor.

Veikko was old and weak, wrinkly and depended on his small cane to move around. But wise he was, wise and well-learned, in one famous academy at the Eastern Kingdom. Their knowledge of the art of medicine far exceeded the locals, and he had spent many years far away, practicing his craft. But in his elder years, he had returned home, to the surprise and joy of many - at least those few who still remembered him, knew of him.

Now, as one of the village elders, he continued to take care of the sick and wounded to the best of his ability. He had taken on a trainee to learn the art of medicine and the ways to mend his kin. She was pretty, yet often sad. Her black eyes were large and filled with expression, her heart pure, almost naive. They say she was of noble birth, and came from a castle far away. She did not mention the subject, dancing elegantly around it in her elaborate ways.

Sans Sun


Viki woke up. It was night. This was not unusual to him. The room was hot, fireplace very much on. He felt rested but... so very odd. It was like he had waken up from an odd dream. Everything felt familiar, and soon he realized that this must be home. But... how? And to what end?

 -"Veikko!", a lady's voice cried. "He has awoken! Go get Leila!" And they came. Veikko, the elder doctor whom Viki had only briefly seen before setting off. Leila, his mother. Oh mother, who had taken such good care of him. And this one young lady, who was beautiful, almost like a goddess. Her voice was elegant, her features pure and untouched, her eyes deep. "Viki! Oh, how happy I am to... To see you... We thought you'd never..." Leila collapsed to her knees, sobbing against the scarred and ruffled chest of his son, who closed his trembling arms on him. Others looked on, Veikko curiously and the younger lady smiling warmly.

"So I am home", he started, his voice weak and raspy, so very unlike his usual tone. "Or I'm still dreaming. Either way, this is a surprise", Viki continued. Leila looked at him with surprise, Veikko stepped forward.

 - "Yes, you are home and no, this is not a dream. The captain brought you here."

 - "Ah, so he did fill his promise. Very well. Say, did he mention anything... else?"

Veikko stood there, silent, shooting a silent look at Leila and the younger lady.

 - "What do you mean?"

 - "Any details, anything... else. Did he leave anything here?"

 - "Ah... He said you were found behind a tavern, in a state most sore. Scarred, bleeding... among other things." Violated, he added to himself. Best that he doesn't know, he though. Nor anyone else. But he could clearly see that his wounds were not only physical in nature. "He left us with coin and ailments for your care, of the finest kind and aplenty."

 - "I see. And nothing else?"

They paused once more.

 -"Nothing noteworthy", Veikko finally said, Leila turning around but then smiled at his son. Some things are best left secret; his nature always was unpredictable. And resolute. Who knows what he might do, even in his current state, shall he find out about the artifact.

- "Hm. Very well. And... how long was I...?"

- "Half a moon", Veikko replied. "We almost lost hope." Leila sniffled. "Your mother was very worried."

- "Ahh. I'm still tired...", Viki said. "Will I recover, doctor?"

- "Your wounds are healed, your bones mended. To our surprise, none were badly broken. You will need to rest for some time, but as far as I'm concerned... You will make a full recovery." Leila smiled, so did the girl. It was a relief indeed to see him up.

- "That... That is good", Viki answered drowsily. He soon drifted back to sleep.

"Come, we better leave him be", Veikko said. "Best not to disrupt his rest. It will take time, before he is fully healed." With that, they left.

"The patient is surprisingly fit physically", Veikko wrote to his diary. "But I am unsure whether he can ever be mended... mentally. He speaks in his sleep, in tones fearful but also... violent. His stare still wanders, although I have assured his mother that it is normal for patients who had suffered greatly. And in a way, it is true. However, this is... this is different.

I spoke with Martti and the others today. They are afraid that his suffering has only started. I must agree. But... there is still hope. At least he can speak understandably, and his intelligence seems to not have suffered. Maybe the balance will come."

Those Left Behind


Went a week, then two. Viki started to slowly get up, only during nighttime. He no longer needed to be taken care of or washed, he was capable of doing that himself. He requested books and scripts, to read and to learn. He wanted to see his clothes and weapons, which he was provided. His hunting bow, battered, and a single arrow. A leather west, worn and beaten. "All you had in you", Martti assured. "Captain mentioned something about a script, but that was lost, along with..." He paused. "Along with your necklace, I'm afraid." He looked solemn. The necklace had traveled in Viki's family for generations. He took it when he left, the only son, perhaps the last in line with no children. Viki nodded solemnly, sighing.

- "Then I will recover it."

- "That is insane. We don't even know where it could be... You were found far, and you are still weak", Martti protested. "Besides, think of your mother. You need to stay and rest. Perhaps a traveling merchant has found it. Or someone else. But the hopes of finding it are slim, even if you left right now. And besides, captain said you had made enemies of that village. As for how, I don't know. But it is best you stay. For you, and... for us."

The fire burned in Viki's brown eyes, a glint unseen before. His eye twitched. Martti stared, intimidated. He put his head down, clenching his fist much like his mother had when he was brought to the shore. "So it may be. You are right... It would be foolish."

A week from there, and the bed was empty. His robes were left on the stool, the worn leather armor gone along with the bow and arrow. Ailments and coin were left intact, surprisingly. A note was found on the desk, and it read:

"Dear Mother,

I always loved you, and always will. Tell Veikko and the lady whose name escapes me that their care was very good, and thank them for me. I shall leave the coin to the village, along with the ailments, for there are those who will need them. Such is life, cruel and unjust. I have something I lost, and I must go and recover it. That, and there are ways of mine who would not fit my home, but are needed. My desires need fulfilling, the divine calls. And I must answer, for I am their servant, for I owe them.

Do not seek me. It is foolish of me to leave, but it will be doubly so for you to follow. Where I survive, perhaps none other will. We are not warriors, and we shall not become that due to my ways. And I shall forever avoid mentioning my home, if I ever make enemies again. Evil shall avoid us, much like we have avoided it successfully for generations past.

My sincere hope is for the better future. For yourself, for the home I love, for the people who live there. I cannot stay. I do hope you understand, but I don't expect it nor require it. My path is that of my own, one that I shall forge with sweat and tears. From the dark and lonely, from the unending forests and treacherous swamps shall I find home. From the trees I seek shelter, and the frost shall be my ally. I shall be guided by the divine, of higher power, who speaks to me in ways you would not understand. For as long as I fulfill Their desires, they shall reward me with purity and strength to carry on my quest.

With that, I have to also apologize to you, mother. For I may be the last of my family, and I know that I am your only son. I hope I could've done you proud and made us prosper. Instead, I had to escape like a criminal, even after the care you showed me. I rewarded your pure hearts and unwavering support with unsure feelings and heavy hearts. And heavy is the weight of the responsibility I left you with, too. Yes, I know about the artifact, the sacred writings of the most holy and divine. While you looked away, sure I was asleep, I took it upon myself to seek and to learn of it, from it, by it. The voice spoke to me, and its teachings were absolute. Oh mother, never have I felt so certain as I did on that moment, for They showed me the light. And that light I shall follow, as but a humble servant, until the end of time.

Farewell,

-Viki"

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