I had heard whispers of an ancient Druid... a mysterious man. Aloof, quiet, but very wise. Yet it was not these qualities that he was best known for. Rather it was his skill with herbs. Rumor told that he had traveled widely since the destruction of his home town of Gandrieh. He had learned much on these journeys and was renowned as the one who knew most about herbal lore.
An herbalist some called him. His knowledge was unsurpassed. It came to me in a dream one night, that perhaps it was time I sought him out. For a Druid never ceases in learning, and perhaps it was the right time. Perhaps I could learn more of the herbs, and then in turn teach it to my fellow Druids.
I awoke the next day with a restless feeling. I tried to concentrate and go on with my daily work. But constantly my mind returned to that dream. I knew that he was out there somewhere. Whispers suggested he dwelled on one of the mountains. But which?
Thoughts tumbling over each other, I packed a small bag and decided to set out on my journey. I prepared for a long trip, as I was unsure of where to find this Druid.
I considered the mountains that I knew. There was Scribe's mountain - the highest in the land. Would he perhaps be there? I began my walk heading towards the mountain. As I did I met many a scribe and alchemist on their own trips, laden down with paper and ambers. I talked with them as we walked together. It crossed my mind that one such as the Druid would not dwell in a place that was so frequently visited.
My brow furrowed in thought as my feet stopped moving. I stood rooted in place, deep in thought. If not Scribe's Mountain, then where? I glanced around, looking for a shady tree under which I might rest and think.
Setting my bag down, I sat quietly, taking in my surroundings. It was peaceful here. The wind rustled in the trees, the birds chirped their song. Suddenly I realized! I knew another spot that was just as peaceful! Surely that would be a place another Druid would choose!
I hastened to my feet, stumbling in my rush. Running, I headed towards another mountain. Du Mountain was my destination this time. Surely I would find him there!
It took me much time to reach the base of the mountain. I was weary, yet pressed on. I felt a sense of urgency, I knew that he was here. I hurried up the mountain as fast as I could, taking care to avoid stumbling on the rocks along the path.
In my haste, I forgot to take care and watch my surroundings. Suddenly I was surrounded by wolves. I gasped as they began to circle me. Closing my eyes, I called on my spells and muttered a chant to soothe the wolves. Upon opening my eyes, I found they were moving around me, but not in a menacing way. I breathed a sigh of relief, thanked Awen and continued on my journey. It was a long slow climb up the mountain. I was beginning to tire, but I continued on.
Finally the peak was in sight. My feet now moving themselves, I reached the top. My face red with exertion, my breath ragged, I collapsed. I had made it at last. I thought to rest a minute before seeking out the Druid.
"Aiyana, why the haste?" a soothing voice asked. Startled I looked up into the kind face of a man. I felt a bond with him - one that I felt with all those who belonged with Nature. I was not surprised he knew my name.
"I seek you out to teach me of the Herbs, wise one."
He chuckled. "I am no wiser than any other. My name is Yarlof and you are welcome here. Drink of this and you will feel restored," he said, pressing a flask into my hands.
I drank deeply, surprised at the sweet taste. I looked up at him, my face silently questioning.
"A special herb. It grows nearby here - I collected some for you. After you have rested I will show it to you." And so, my teaching had begun.
~Aiyana