Feeling a renewed sense of purpose after his fight with the iron bastard, Korv returned home to rest and relax. He would eat and set about reading the prose written by the fine folks of his village.
Korv made a simple meal for himself. While he enjoyed his treats, Korv knew that excess of anything was ill-advised. Nay, if he was going to regain his strength and face the challenges ahead, he must be mindful of what he ate. He remembered the words of a wise man who once said “All things in moderation.”
After a satisfying meal, Korv set himself down to reading. As he read the words of his fellow villagers, Korv recalled with great joy the exchanges he had with several of them.
He started with the writings of the Fair Maiden Amy. Amy was the designated protector of all the animals within the realm. A cause which Korv admired immediately. Korv found her to be a fascinating person. While she seemed a quirky (by her own description) person at first, Korv suspected she may be a fiery lass when provoked. He made note not to get on her bad side, lest he find out if his speculation was accurate. Through the lens of Amy’s writings, Korv could see pieces of his own life as well, and he admired the courage Amy showed in dealing with the elements of darkness. The two soon became quick collaborators. Korv was attempting to be an artist in his own way, and The Fair Maiden Amy not only encouraged him, but even enlisted his aid at times. This deeply humbled Korv, and he remains forever grateful.
Next he read the writings of the Mighty Sir Christopher. He was a hearty soul indeed! He had faced the fearsome Grim Reaper not once, but twice, and defeated him in heated combat both times. His bravery and belief in self were to be admired throughout the realm. He often carried the Reaper’s skull around with him as proof of his deed. Now this, this was a man Korv could draw much inspiration from: A man fighting the staunchest of battles against the darkest of foes. Verily!
Korv next wished to learn of the latest happenings in the realm. For this, he went to the most trusted source in the village: The Great Abbrah Kahdaver. Abbrah looked to be more mage than town crier, but he assured all that he was merely a bringer of news. Some of his stories seemed a bit far-fetched, but some also had the eerie ring of truth about them. Either way, Korv found his style pleasing and read with joy. Although he still thinks this simple “bringer of news” dabbles in sorcery of some sort. Sorcerer or not, his tomes bring a smile to Korv’s face.
Korv’s reading journey continued with tales from the Legendary Sir Robert. Legendary, because they say he once carried an entire world on his shoulders! Aye, this was power that Korv could admire, especially since right now he struggled to lift a flimsy hammer. Sir Robert was the father of two young squires whom he took great pride in, and he was also a man of education. He instructed the young villagers and took this task extremely seriously. Indeed, this was a man who had Korv’s respect. A man committed to shaping young minds is indeed a man to be commended.
Korv’s next reading adventure took him to the dark and mysterious pages of the one they called Lady Destiny. She was an acclaimed poetess throughout the village, and indeed her words could be simply hypnotic. Lady Destiny had the power to show you a simple image, and with her words, transport you to the most magical of realms. Her words could be haunting, comforting, and sometimes both at the same time. She too was a teacher, but under the cloak of darkness, Lady Destiny weaved a most mystical spell indeed. Her writings inspired Korv to put forth only his best efforts when constructing his own tales.
Korv’s final reading of the evening was a most special one indeed. It was the writings of the beloved Countess Aastha. When Korv first encountered Aastha, she seemed shy and quiet. Somehow, Korv sensed a kindred spirit, and read her writings with great interest. As he read, he learned of the challenges this little one had faced already throughout her young life. Korv was deeply impressed by the courage this woman possessed within her, and he reached out in friendship. To Korv’s delight, Aastha accepted, and their friendship continued to grow. The countess inspired Korv with her positive attitude and he watched with great joy as her confidence grew by leaps and bounds. The day she called Korv “brother” remains one of the happiest of his life. He accepted the name with great pride and called her “little sister”. To his unending delight, Aastha accepted this name as well.
As Korv concluded his reading for the evening, he felt a deep sense of satisfaction and kinship within his heart. He felt refreshed and inspired. He could not wait for the morn to come so that he may resume his quest to regain what he had lost. Korv had found so much inspiration from so many of his fellow villagers, that he committed to recognizing even more of them for their valiant efforts in the very near future. Folk such as these should be saluted.
The Beginning At Last 
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