A Second Chance Article

[ry0un0suke]

Weeks after the bloody battle for Silverwall Mines, several articles appear on billboards across Esshar.
1828AC, the Eleventh Month
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'As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.'
 
My research first began with a Dullahan, then an occultist, then a Nethradin. I approached those who I deemed as monsters incorrectly. Rather than paint them in my mind as beasts, they are patients who are sick-- Some inherently, others who were exposed to said sickness or chose to take it on willingly. Others had no choice. My following article will contain thorough detail reports of each whom I've the chance to work with. Before doing so, a much more pressing issue requires writing and attention. I've formed an opinion on the nature of humanity and our position as humans. There are far and few people who exist and truly bear a good heart and intentions. So little can remain centered in their convictions. I arrived to the Shimmering City in my early adolescences from the countryside and I have never once heard of an evil as great as what has transpired these past few weeks. 
 
Months ago, I proposed my research to Archmagi Amori ven Pelleaux. It is no secret that I attempt to give aid in my own methodology of 'cleansing' different to that of traditional exorcism. I wanted him to see what I could provide for occultist Isana Aertas. He wanted his daughter Aradne ven Pelleaux to marry a woman free of occult. He was weary at the time and then and there should I have realized some stones will be left unturned for his city and even children. I should have realized it.
 
Secondhand accounts of the bloody and sorrowful battle at Silverwall reached me over the weeks. It's hard for me to say if we are born innocent or evil. Are we as humans entering the world with low levels of evil? Are we exposed to it? Do we simply walk Eternia in a Hel of its own, like wayward souls? More than ever am I conflicted. So few exhibit a true good in their heart. Ever clear should it be that the once prestigious Shimmering City, the City of Magic that abandoned old ways of kingship is griped by vile pride and tyrannical rule. 
 
He is no King.
He is evil.
He is a murderer.
 
War is bloody, it's gruesome. But tell me why Archmagi Amori refused to lessen the blood spilled? Why did he let his son be killed? His Knights? Why does arrogance grip Osrona's leadership wholly? There's blood of children and loved ones on his hands. Osrona bathes in blood and then speaks of blessings of Gods and Primordials. Is this what the Gods want? Do the heavens smile upon your King as he splatters the brains of a young woman on the ground with his boot? Is this Kingly? Worthy of praise and gratification? All are compliant and allow evil to fester in once pristine walls. It's an evil that should be purged and removed-- Cleansed. My practices allow people to heal. Does the Church condone this behavior? 
 
Humanity seems evil by default.
 
Invaders of foreign countries bear more humanity than those who reside within. The rot and corruption of one's conviction has put us Essharns in the position we're in now. Our country mostly occupied and the very principles of what can separate us from proclaimed 'monsters in black' have since dissipated. Where is your faith at? All deserve a second chance, everyone. But can we see that Osrona no longer shimmers as brightly as a does? That a murderous blight seeks to tear down Osrona of everything it stands for? Even exorcists and holy magi can be just as wicked as the occultists they seek to purge. My great-great grandfather was an Osronan Knight and I implore you all to follow in his example. My only accounts exist in a small transcript I happened upon while in the once Shimmering City. Reform your home. Ground your beliefs. Do not pander false narratives further about a grace not present. Should any require counsel after the horrific events and loss of Xenia pyr Docro, Orain ven Pelleaux, and Asher Quinn, reach out to me. Healing is not done in one shot.
 
Leones Astra

1. Have a firm handshake

2. Look people in the eye when you speak to them

3. Sing, dance, embarrass yourself.

4. Do the former in the bath, if not in public.

5. Hit first, and hit hard.

6. Keep secrets.

7. Never give up.

8. Always accept true help.

9. Chin up and be brave, even if its fake. Nobody will be able to tell.

10. Choose the person you want to spend your life with carefully. It will be the answer to all your happiness or misery.

11. Do nice things.

12. Give a second chance, but never a third.

13. Be romantic.

14. Be positive and enthusiastic.

15. Relax! Nothing is as important as it seems.

16. Be a good loser.

17. Be a better winner.

18. Think before telling a friend a secret.

19. Never be the first to release a hug.

20. Be modest.

21. Beware those who have nothing to lose.

22. Have no regrets.

23. Be bold, and have courage.

24. Never waste the chance to tell someone you love and care about them.

25. Nobody can do everything alone.

26. Your attitude is your own. Don't let others choose it for you.

27. Always eat breakfast.

28. Take the scenic route.

29. Show respect for all, no matter their job or creed.

30. Send flowers. People love flowers.

31. Be someone's hero.

32. Marry for love.

33. Don't expect life to be fair.

34. Wave at small children.

35. Be yourself. Be happy.