I am Herda. Youngest of my father’s clan, smallest of my siblings, the only daughter among many sons, a pebble among boulders. We are hill dwarves, a deeply rooted folk. I had no thought of leaving our grand halls, carved into the hills long ages ago. I was in training as a blacksmith, my father’s trade. I have a love of maps and mapmaking, but not the wanderlust to go with it. Nothing could have induced me to leave my home. But the lot fell to me, small Herda.
Three strangers came to us, a human, and two halflings. They sought audience with our High Council. I paid little attention – I am not privy to the matters of our leaders. I was not prepared for the grim face of my father, summoning me to the council. These three strangers came asking for a dwarf to join their number. What claim they could possibly have on our people I do not know. The lot had been cast. We dwarves do not argue with the tales that dice tell. I was told that I was a warlock, which sounded powerful. A magical pact was made, binding me to a hex-blade and as soon as I saw it, part of the mystery became clear. This blade had appeared to me in a dark corridor under the mountain some weeks ago. I could sense it calling to me then and I ran away. I do not understand my connection to this weapon forged in the shadows, sentient but not alive. There is a darkness to it that frightens me.
After a brief evaluation of my strengths and weaknesses, I was given a bag packed full of things. I was told what particular spells, weapons and skills would be at my disposal and I forgot them as soon as I heard them. Father said farewell. My feet moved in obedience to the directive of the elders, but my spirit reeled in confusion. Nothing was familiar anymore but my name. “I am Herda, I am Herda, I am Herda…” One of my new companions asked what I was muttering. I did not answer him.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
This is a story that emerged from my first D&D experience. I’m not sure how far I will go with it, but I wanted to communicate something of the disorientation and “lostness” I felt in the game, both the preparation and gameplay.
Tell me if you are interested in hearing more of Herda’s story.
I Am Herda Part 2
I Am Herda Part 3
I’ll probably throw some dice to see whether or not to delete this in the morning.
Lynniebeemuseoday 
I’ve never played D & D, so I can sympathize with you if you have to remember all that, and the stories of any other players. I’d listen to more. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
The farther I get away from the experience, the less I remember, so I’ll have to see if I can dredge up enough to make a story. 😄
LikeLike
May your Health and Strength levels rebound to maximum!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Have you played D&D?
LikeLike
No, but it shares similarities with games I’ve played on computers and dedicated game machines.
LikeLiked by 1 person