Hall of Heroes - Ebon

Home... for the last time:

As Ebon dropped the last shovelful of dirt on Rhys' grave he paused, giving a final moment of respect and sorrow for his father, friend, and teacher. The grave was placed between the two largest roots of the ancient oak tree -- a place where Rhys found peace and happiness. A breeze blew gently through the leaves of the oak causing some to fall to the ground. On it's journey from the sky to the earth one leaf landed on the quillon of a common longsword. Ebon had driven it deeply into the wood where the oak roots came together as a marker for Rhys. Despite his sorrow Ebon knows that Rhys has continued on, in a better way and place, but it is difficult as are all partings.

Ebon looked at the oak, the small grove it is part of, and then the small cottage that was their life for many years. Rhys' passing changed that. Ebon could tell that Rhys would leave soon as the months passed, watching each

day as Rhys grew less attached to this world -- so it was no surprise when the old Nadarni did not answer the knock on his bedroom door. It was time for him to leave this place and search out his past and future, as Rhys had told him in earlier times.

In a fluid motion Ebon drew the blade hanging at his side, causing the blood-red gem in the pommel to flash in the sunlight. He held it, considering it as he had in many times past, searching it for deeper and deeper meaning. The blade, Bloodsong by it's name, was the work of one who was a musician as well as smith. Holes of varying size and impressions in the blade may appear as decorations, but serve a different purpose when handled by one properly trained. The proper swing, angle, and speed cause the longsword to sing with it's wielder. Ebon gripped the red leather grip, feeling the weight of the blade and it's balance. It is a common practice to bury a warrior with his prized weapon, but such is not the way of a Bladesinger as Rhys had explained. A weapon of Bloodsong's caliber was to be passed along from teacher to student and not to be wasted on a hole in the ground. Ebon knelt, holding Bloodsong across his palms, vowing to honor his teachings and remember Rhys by passing them on to another worthy pupil in the future.

Ebon stood, sheathed Bloodsong, and walked away....adventure awaits.

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