E5Q2 Way of the Foxes

The underground passage brings you outside of city, but you still sneak through the tall grasses. Haden's father, the Chief of Ridoan, has scouts prowling the island, so you need to be cautious.

"My old mentor lives close by," Haden says. "Daeson always knows what to do. He can help us."

Alster asks, "Can we trust him to side with you over your father?"

"Yes," Haden responds emphatically, "he is loyal to the Guardians but he is like an older brother to me and like the son my father never had, he doesn't always see eye to eye with dad, he won't say a thing to betray us."

You cross over a bridge, and Haden races ahead, waving. "Daeson!" Foxes yip and scurry around her as they exchange greetings. In her excitement, she almost forgets to introduce you. She tells Daeson about your mission to reach the tower and stop the corruption.

"Dad's Eagle Guardians are everywhere," she says. "I don't even know how we'll get close to the Ruined Lands."

"There's always a solution in nature," Daeson says. "All animals have important things to tell us if we only listen. From the smallest frog to the wildest eagle, they see what we can't."

He scratches a fox behind its ears. "Your father cares about you, but remember that foxes are tricksters. Sometimes we must break the rules a little to do what is right."

Haden punches him in the arm. "Thank you! I know just where to start. Are you coming with us? We could use your skills in a quest like this?

Daeson thought for a moment, "a snake only gets one chance to reveal itself and then it is seen, I can't break your fathers trust and join you but if any one asks of your whereabouts I can say with all sincerity that I don't know, so don't tell me now where you are off to, ok? He says with a wink at her.

You are curious about Daeson, he is so handsome and so wise but he does seem 'older'. Also you think it is odd that he lives out here in edge of the Whispering Woods, near Ridoan and not in the city. You also find it very curious that he is so wise about animals and  their behaviours so you ask Haden to tell you more as she waves goodbye to her mentor and we head for the north.

Haden tells us that Daeson is a man of age with wisdom etched into every line of his weathered face, is a revered figure on the island of Ridoan. His journey began in the heart of the Whispering Woods, where he was born to a lineage of naturalists and scholars who dedicated their lives to understanding the intricate balance of nature. From a young age, Daeson showed an extraordinary affinity for the natural world, communicating with animals and interpreting the subtle signs of the wilderness.

As a boy, he was mentored by the elders of his village, learning the secrets of the land, the behavior of animals, and he even learnt from some visiting healers about the healing properties of plants. 

Excitedly Alster interrupted "oh, do you know their names?"

She shook her head and went on, "His education was a blend of practical experience and deep philosophical inquiry, instilling in him a profound respect for all living creatures. Daeson spent years wandering the forests, studying the ecosystems, and forging bonds with the wildlife. It was during these solitary expeditions that he discovered his unique ability to understand and speak with animals, a gift that would define his life's path.

In his early adulthood, Daeson traveled beyond the borders of Ridoan, seeking knowledge from distant lands and diverse cultures. He studied with healers, mages, and sprites, expanding his understanding of the natural world and the mystical connections between all living things. These experiences enriched his perspective and deepened his wisdom, making him a bridge between the human world and the animal kingdom.

Upon returning to Ridoan, Daeson chose a secluded life on the edge of the Whispering Woods, where he could live in harmony with nature and continue his studies. His home became a sanctuary for animals, a place where the boundaries between human and animal worlds blurred. Over time, he gained a reputation as a sage, a healer, and a mentor. People from across the island sought his counsel, drawn by his insight and his ability to find solutions in the most unexpected places.

Haden said she first met Daeson as a child, brought to him by her father. The Chief, recognizing Daeson's unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, entrusted him with Haden's education in the ways of nature. Under Daeson's guidance, Haden learned to listen to the whispers of the forest, understand the language of animals, and see the interconnectedness of all life. Their bond grew strong, with Daeson becoming a surrogate brother figure and a source of unwavering support and wisdom.

"Daeson’s philosophy," Haden continued, "is centered around the belief that nature holds answers to all of life’s challenges. He teaches that every animal, from the smallest frog to the wildest eagle, has a lesson to impart. This belief guides his actions and decisions, which should have made him a formidable ally in the fight against the corruption threatening the island if it weren't for his fear of dad. Daeson's advice often involves looking to nature for guidance, embracing the cunning of foxes, the perseverance of turtles, and the vigilance of eagles."

"Did you see when we arrived at Daeson's sanctuary, we found him surrounded by foxes, they are his trusted messengers and confidants." Haden, had been very excited to see her mentor and it seems that he had offered her a piece of advice imbued with his characteristic blend of wisdom and subtle rebellion. "Your father cares about you, but remember that foxes are tricksters. Sometimes we must break the rules a little to do what is right." Haden recalls him saying. 

With Daeson’s guidance and encouragement, Haden finds renewed determination. His words remind her of the cunning and resilience needed to stop the corruption and get to the siblings of light. 

What is Daeson's skill and how did he learn it? Answer this in Thy Quests to move on. 

Next: E5Q2 Through Eagle's Eyes