Here, Hold My Hand . . .

(unknown, Which Province: 120 Shorka 357)

I am relatively new to this corner of the world. My cousin asked me to come to town so we could be together. I have been in the Crossing for maybe 2 days and was finaly starting to learn how to accomplish things.

So here it is, I had walked to the shipyard and was waiting for some shiprats to show up when this guy named Juse asked me if i had any good weapons. I said no and he grabbed my hand and started to take me somewhere. About half way I started to get suspicous when he loaded his crossbow. I asked him where he was taking me and he said to get a better weapon. A little while later we came to this clearing and I looked down at my surroundings for a second — only to look up and see Juse fire a bolt at me. Luckily, I was able to jump out of the way.

If I would have known how to let go of his hand I would have run. Instead I quickly exited and shut off my magic portal. Now I am scared to enter the Realms again for fear of it saying I am dead.

[Editor’s Note: Alas, such a tale makes me want to weep for the ill that walks in our fair land. The Guardian Mages will help to protect Novices against unconsented battling, but one has to already know that to be able to REPORT it to them. Rather like knowing how to remove yourself out of someone’s group. (LEAVE was the action Draytear did not know.) I hope everyone reading this keeps an eye open for Draytear and goes to his aid when he returns to the realm.]