"Let the young worry about what's right and wrong, and us old ones will do what needs doing." A drunk old man murmured as he passed by the young soldier. Lansin cocked his head and shook it gently, unsure what to do with the unnecessary information that was imparted upon him. "Well aren't I lucky he was here to tell me that," he thought, a wry smile twisting his features. Life was becoming more comfortable for him in Fal Dara. The strategic streets and high walls didn't feel so oppressive. The sounds of hawkers, horses, and men, so frightening. People were even learning his name. And yet still there was always something that seemed to call to him from beyond the walls. A little farm, with a little hearth, and a little family. Home. Lansin glanced up towards the walls before turning and continuing on his way, his belly full, it was time to find his rack and diary.
Day 12
I had a dream last night. Was riding north with Lord Matheus, routine patrol an' all. But suddenly we was set upon by a number an' something fierce. I don' really recall much but I know the drealord Nevaeh was there. I were cut down while Lord Matheus tried to halp me. Never woke up so frightened. Here recently I start to get upset because the things that used ter scare me suddenly do not. I'm right ascared of the dreams that come. But even that fear is fading. I worry what I'm losin.
Today there were some kinds of festi...going on in Fal Dara, even extended out the great Malkier Gate and along the dusty road a ways. There was cooking and song and dance. I was on duty but boy was it something. I never seen that afore. I found a man doing tricks and reciting stories. I can't recall what they called him. But he would throw balls in the air and make them do shapes and such. I knew I shouldna but I bought me a few of them balls an one day I want ter learn how to do that. Hopefully mama does not find out. But I like them. Early day tomorrow, so that's all for now.
Day 13
Uno told me today that, "A bird in hand is worth more in your stomach than two in a bush." I don't know what it means but I think he wants me ter eat more. He's always telling me things like that. "A chain is only as strong because it's got links." I don't get it so I just nod along, "Ok Uno whatever you say sir." What I tell him. If he's not cursing, or bashing me with a sword, he's saying things like that. That's how my day starts every day. I wake, do my daily doings, then go see old one eye hiself. He batters me around habit, I try ter learn, then it's patrol time.
You know you would think that patrols would be boring, especially when you pull city duty. Cause you just wander row...routes along the city. But I can tell you, there always somethin interestin goin on. Today I saw the master blacksmith try to bash the herbalist in the head. Herbalist threw salt in his eyes. Where did the salt come from? Does he have a pocket full of salt? I don' rightly know, an' I don't want too! An' then they look ter me, like I am supposed to... make the situation more ok... I just got here maself! I don' have that kinda pull fellas.
Anyway, that was a mess. Woulda been worse if not for Lord Maximus showing up. What a day.
Day 14
I met Master Tannin today. He one of my direct superi... he's in charge of me in some way. Good man. You know he comes from farmin stock to? Tickled me pink to hear that. But that one, well, he's a different breed. Took ter adventuring early. Traveled the world. Probably kissed a lady or two. I can learn a lot from Master Tannin. Now that I think about it, I don't know what ter call him. I just says Sir when I'm around him but... oh well. I'll ask someone sometime.
Master Tannin and I, along wit a few others, who I don't recall, we took out a bandit stronghold. Wish I could say I made an impression but when I wasn' to busy shaking I could barely get my sword clear. I have ter work harder.
Day 15
Lord Maximus took me on a journey today. You know, I am right thankful to him. I don' like writin for him but I sure do like soldiering for him. We went down into Andor to settle some issue. I was so tired by the time we arrived I could barely keep my eyes open and keep to the saddle. Lord Maximus met with some men and they shook hands, whatever, not my business. If Lord Maximus likes traveling leagues ter shake hands with people then I'm all fer it. Hey, gets me out of the city a bit.
Comin' back he helped me learn my ridin better. This strap is better here. The bit should be just so in the mouth. I'm grateful. With every day I feel more and more complete. My mama might call that arrogant. I'm still learnin what it means maself.
Day 16
Used ter be that when I would get to sit down and do the writings in this here thing, I hated it. But now, I find I like it. You is kept so busy as a recruit that some days you do not know what way is up and what way is down. But then I can get back to my rack and I find this little ole book here an' it is almost like I get a chance ter organize my thoug...head.
I wish I had more ter say but it was unev...nothing happened much today.
Day 17
I been called up. First patrol I am ever scoutin for. I'm scared. Wish me luck.
Mama... I love you, just in case, you know?
Lansin al'Farath - Shienaran Lancer Applicant