A Letter to the Chief Artificer
Day 182 of the 5th Age
Some days ago, a letter arrived for me at the Guild - much to my surprise and delight.
I heard of a rumour traversing the Realm that I am curt, brash, and my humour is seldom of the polite sort. Apparently this is why letters are sent directly to Vaelan instead.
Those rumours would be most accurate!
Anyway, a new traveller sought my aid directly, seeking the perfect gift for a friend. The Guild fulfilled the commission, and I am told we succeeded in delivering an enchanting Realm-experience to the young lady celebrating a new Age.
The Flame-Bearer later wrote again. She spoke most fondly of Ancient One, and the place it has within her reading ritual. I admit there is something old and arcane about that candle.
But there is something else:
Stepping out of the Artificiary for a time to converse with a like-minded traveller, and welcome her to the Realm, proved something of a salve for the heart... a reminder of why my long hours at the forges matter.
She remarked that over a shared cup of ale we would likely exchange many stories. A wonderful thought to consider—and this is not the first invitation the workshop has received.
Although this requires some consideration, since new Flame-Bearers finding themselves at the Black Vial Tavern or Hangman's Inn would be most unfortunate.
Perhaps one day the Guild will have to build a larger table.
Meanwhile, may this not be the last letter to Vaelora.
⨺
~ Vaelora
[From the personal journals of Vaelora Stormforge]
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