"That is not creepy at all, Maggot. Waking up to a giant green dog laying across your back. No, perfectly NOT unsettling... You are lucky I am sore from yesterday and the warmth is... soothing..." - 06/04/16

"Does it make you feel powerful, attacking a mother and invading the den for which she hides her children? You must be very proud. You may have been my brother's ally, Morikiah. However, after this, you are nothing but a joke in my eyes." - 06/03/16

"..." - --/--/17

06/17/17
For the past few weeks or so has been extremely busy outside The Forest, mostly helping a few acquaintances with some dangerous hoodoo tasks. During the time away also gathered and prepared what he needed to for the manipulations of Kozan's and his own's "true names'" symbolic representations.
After returning to The Forest searched for The Sunset. Took an annoyingly lengthy time to find the younger man who buried himself so deep into the forest's darkest corner that Rook began wondering if Kozan had found his own way out of The Forest.
Found Kozan and was immediately met with a back hoof to the face. Lucky for him that his mask kept him from receiving a black eye but the impact still left his face sore enough. Repaid the other stag with a good kicking around.
Sat with The Sunset afterwards and discussed how they would go about to manifesting their new representations more solidly. Took Kozan to where he would preform the enchantment and proceeded to do so. After, rested with his companion for a while and agreed to teach him a few things before Kozan left for the night.

(Rook has a new pictogram: 2ndChance)

05/21/17
Found Kozan "in a bad way" back in The Sunset's original world. Truthfully felt rather furious considering the trouble Rook had went through to help the younger man through his last episode and making clear passage to The Endless Forest in hopes of some sort of recovery. Sucked up his rage long enough to help the other man and make sure he didn't loose his life this time. Once Kozan regained consciousness cursed him until his throat was sore.
Spent quite some time with the Setting Sun after he (Rook) calmed down, and perhaps had the longest conversation in his current life. Tried to encourage Kozan to make connections, new ones, and attempted to negate his fears. Believed wholeheartedly that The Sunset was the most stubborn man in existence, whatever world they may be in. Insisted if he, himself, could make the effort to reach out and pull himself out of the darkness so too could Kozan.
During the conversation came to some realizations about himself, both of his own fears and the fact that he truly was still in a black hole. Knew that his tie to his brother could never be broken, that it wasn't what he wanted anyway, but acknowledge to himself that he needed to crawl from his twin's shadow instead of seeking a way to still hide within it despite the fact he was no longer present.
Confided in The Sunset that in some way he understood what he was going through. Although they coped with their situations differently that they were very much the same. And that since they were so much alike than perhaps Rook himself may need a "change" as well. Decided then that not only would he help Kozan make a change to the symbol that represented his "true name" (something he promised the other man days back) but would also practice the magic on himself.
Feeling anxious but also a small liberation at the possibility of no longer carrying the symbol that reminded so many of someone else. He may still carry the face of his twin but maybe then he'd be fully recognized as an individual with his own light. On the other hand can feel the dread swallowing his heart, feeling he could be much more easily forgotten without his brother's light.
Tucked away his fears to continue consoling Kozan and ushered him into The Forest where he figured the other man would have a harder time finding things to feed his self destructive habits. Temporarily took away The Sunset's ability to return to The Living World, which he was sure Kozan would be unhappy about once he figured it out. But was sure even with the dangers of The Forest that it was safer for him (Kozan) than alone with himself in his current condition.

04/21/17
Found Kozan, a young man Rook had met in one of the human worlds that he has recently been visiting, resting atop Red Hill. The Sunset looked rather torn up, more emotionally and mentally than physically. Rook scolded him, "I did not help you to return to this forest so you could get torn to ribbons. This place may be a dream to the living you but I am not sure how it will affect that other you if you die. Even real people die while dreaming." Was given an explanation that Kozan was defending someone that he once knew and cared deeply for. From previous conversations with the other man came to a quick conclusion. "The doe that cared for you as a fawn?" Hesitated before giving him some harsh advice.

"This place was your solace as a child, it can be again, but not with those that you knew from before. They who once were - are dead, imaginary friends that a lonely child manifested and were destined to fade away when he grew out of them." Was thrown some heated words from the other stag and Rook replied coolly. "I am fated to remember, you are fated to forget, we are destined to be forgotten... We do not get to choose. The you that you are now is not supposed to remember the you that is awake. I gave you that. So the living you can dig himself out of the dark pit he buried himself in. Do not make me regret giving you this chance."

03/25/17
Roughhoused and played chase with Maggot and The Pagan. Was coaxed into a bit of flirting with the green dog. Then Rook was lead around to meet people? Maggot are you high? Later shoved Maggot into the stream which Maggot did not appreciate. Maggot attempted to drown Rook. Rook was not impressed and there was a short, splashy scuffle. Maggot left to go pass out and Rook pouted at home. Short visit from The Pagan again. Thanks, lady, you are good company. Then Rook passed out after she left.

12/25/16 - 12/27/16
Having discovered and been drawn into a portal to some human world - has been exploring the new extension to his reality. Finds the world and the form he took there familiar and exhilarating. Though it may not be the same place that drags at his mind from a time before time he still finds some things tugged at old, forgotten memories, however vague and blurry as they may still be.
Met a few strange people that insisted that they had summoned him there and for a reason. Was dubbed some sort of Spirit of Chaos and told that he was meant to aid them. Felt an old fear and anger burn within at their persistent behaviors but reminded himself that he was not chained to them and so he had a choice to be their Chariot of War or not. Met a mentor of sorts among them that had begun to teach him some forms of magic. Though being found to have a natural affinity for it, and internally knowing some strange magic on his own, Rook finds his inexperience in most of it leaves him clumsy and frustrated. Experienced several other things in the human world during his stay and finding that he very much enjoyed being near the ocean during any free time that he found.

Returned to the forest on December 25th after an extended absence. Exhausted and irritable so didn't bother checking up on the usual individuals, since he knew them to have others making sure of their well beings. Instead headed for the closest hide away, too tired to make the trek to his usual tree.

The next day headed to the tree he often called home. Was surprised to find gifts laid there from Averell. Couldn't recall ever receiving gifts before, and though he knew that the inhabitants of the forest, for whatever reason, exchanged gifts this time of year he and his brother never took part in it. Felt gratitude and affection bubble up within him at the gesture but quickly came to the conclusion that perhaps he should have brought a gift in exchange. It was custom after all. Receive and gift, right? Agreed with himself and settled down to snack on the chocolates that were part of the gifts, left soon after back to the world he had returned from.

Returned again today with a few objects. Though feeling rather ridiculous with the four necklaces dangling from his antlers and the small child's wagon toted with him by a small piece of rope he had tied to the handle.
Quickly made his way to the Chrystal Child's birth site, dodging any strangers along the way, and slid the wagon near the remains of the crystal. Perhaps, he figured, since the other Guardians liked to shower the child with useless objects he would supply the child with something to put those things in. Yes, very sensible Rook, pat yourself on the back. Draping from the side of the wagon was another gift, a child's blanket. It was growing colder and since he could not be by the child's side consistently this could help ward away the chill. Of course, he had yet to know Mikael had gifted the child with a sweater and booties, but Rook can pout about not thinking of it first later. He had a final gift for the child but decided he would allow Averell to decide if Xipilli was old enough for it yet.

Satisfied he turned but then paused. He suddenly realized that he did not know where Averell, nor their other companion, called home. Grunting to himself he decided he would just have to give them the trinkets in person. For now though... he headed to a particular place in the Birch Forest that he knew as an unmarked grave. Feeling his spirits surprisingly raised by the visit he then set out to find Averell.

Sitting on the hill he knew Averell frequented, Rook hoped to meet up with the doe. Happily greeted her when she did arrive that day. Revealed a gift he had prepared for her, a piece of Sea Glass, one of a few The Chariot had found on the beaches of the new place he discovered, that he had wrapped by a local. Behind it a winterberry charm hung, both dangled from a silver chain. Different enchantments were placed upon each charm. Also gave her a second necklace that was meant for The Crystal Child, so she could safe keep it and give it to the child for him.
Did briefly mention the place he has been visiting and offered to possibly bring her to explore it with him sometime.
Pleased, The Chariot kept Averell company as long as he could that evening.

"Winter's chill is already peeking over the horizon. An early snow... The winterberry shines bright against the white veil even though her pelt matches it well. She sits amongst a herd of strangers, some I may vaguely recognize... I believe I shall join her."
Spotted Averell amongst a herd and approached without much hesitation. Which was a mistake on his part. Noticed the stag "The Sambar" stand and then was approached by him. Tensely waited and tentatively returned a sniff, knowing what it all could mean. Snorted in agitation when The Sambar got between himself and Averell. Attempted to move around him but found himself blocked again. Walked side by side with him, sizing him up and soon was engaged by. Took the fight a little more seriously than was normal for him. In the end won over the Judge Targa and waited patiently expecting Averell to join them. Tensed up when she seemed to hesitate at first and then quietly fumed when she insisted that they stay with The Sambar's herd. Begrudgingly obliged as she was the one he came for in the first place. Sat down with Averell at one side and Targa on the other while glaring discontentedly at The Sambar. Groomed by Averell until his tension subsided some and fully relaxed when The Sambar's herd headed off on their own. - 10/02/16

"This peace I feel, with this dove at my side and this jeweled prince nestled between us, only when you were by my side did I feel such peace. When it was just you and me, brother. When we found our freedom, when we reunited in the next life, when we ran with our hearts and lungs full of liberty. When there was no one to threaten to pry you from my grasp. I want to hold on to this peace, brother. I can not let this slip through my fingers, not as you have..." - 07/03/16

Found the Crystal Child not at their usual place. Swallowed the anxiousness he felt and reasoned that one of the Guardians may have taken him somewhere. Found them with Mikael at the Blue Bowl. Hung back at first until the Dark Guardian stood to greet him. After the greeting checked on the sleeping child and settled down beside them.
After a small nap himself awoke to a risen child and, after unsuccessfully waking Mikael, took the child to the crying idol for a drink and a bath. Wasn't sure if anyone ever bathed the kid and decided they were due one. Of course, had no idea how to handle bathing a kid so basically taught them to just splash around in the Crying Idol's tears. Took them next to the Ruins to try and familiarize the child with more places. Finally took them to his own home. Rubbed on the tree and encouraged the child when they did the same. Yes, stinks like me, this is where I sleep, kid. Safe place.
Settled for a short sit before Averell arrived. Warmly greeted her then the three goofed off a bit. Lead them to the Twin Gods Statue to introduce it to the child. Knows that others worship The Twins but Rook never had himself so he didn't encourage the kid with all that. More like, yah, big rock, Cool, huh? Then Maggot materialized before their eyes? Oh, hi, Maggot! But he quickly left and Rook snorted at his retreating back. That's right, run away like the baby you are. Went to splash around with Ave and Xip' at the lake for a while before settling at the shore.
Noticed Rose not far away, seemingly looking their way, so got up to greet her. Met a few kids in her company. Introduced Averell to Rose (or did they already know each other?) and tried to encourage the Crystal Child to interact with the other children. Don't end up like me, kid, or like any of these other socially inapt forest inhabitants. I'm going to teach you to be a functional individual if it kills me.
Some crazy stuff happened near Rose's home. After trying to usher everyone back to the lake the crazy just followed. Finally was able to gather everyone up and took them to his own home. Invited Rose and the kids to stay there until things have settled down.
- 06/28/16

"I was never good at making... connections. My bond was to one alone for he was a part of me. I had been a mere mirage to everyone but him, something I thought I wanted to be. Especially when his light cast me into shadow in your eyes. I find myself in the company of others more often, most recently. Some have become a regular presence. I slowly feel as if I am becoming... more real, solid. It makes me think, Little Clover, of our conversation in the past. What does friendship mean? I am still not certain but with their presence, when they acknowledge me, recognize me, seek me... when I feel... this way, could this be what friendship means? Or am I simply deluding myself?"
"I shouldn't delude myself."
"I don't want your apology! I want you to grovel." - 06/25/16

"That is not creepy at all, Maggot. Waking up to a giant green dog laying across your back. No, perfectly NOT unsettling... You are lucky I am sore from yesterday and the warmth is... soothing..."
"Oh, right. You get burned by spells... Woops?"
"It is rare that someone can keep up with me. It is always a pleasure to see you, Averell." - 06/04/16

"Does it make you feel powerful, attacking a mother and invading the den for which she hides her children? You must be very proud. You may have been my brother's ally, Morikiah. However, after this, you are nothing but a joke in my eyes." - 06/03/16

After a quiet sit with Maggot abandoned him to go see the Crystal Child when Rook couldn't get his attention. (Sorry, Maggot XD ) Lead the child to the lake and encouraged the baby to drink. Attempted to gently subdue it's apparent fear of water. Later went to meet a mother and child and a friend of theirs'. Let me socialize this kid with your kid. K Thnx This kid needs some socializing. :I Left when things got crowded with too many and overly eager strangers. You're scared the kid. :/ Tried to lead the baby back home but his player got lost and now is late for BBQ with family because how'd it get so late? - 05/30/16

Went to visit The Crystal Child. Found them in the company of Maggot. Checked on the child and approached Maggot. (But then Rook's player had a knock at the door. Worse timing.) Met a stranger called Brent, as well as a small snake child. Encouraged the Crystal Child to move around and interact with the other child. Figured the Crystal Child could use the exercise to strengthen it's muscles. Pleased when Averell arrived. - 04/21/16

Went to visit The Crystal Child to only find the crystal had crumbled. Felt a slight hint of dread and anxiety before he noticed the small child laying near the crystal ruin. Sensed the familiarity of it's energy and settled into a numb relief. Sat close to the tiny bundle to only wrap it within his forelegs, close to his chest as it seemed to desire more closeness and warmth. Attempted to feed it some energy to supplement it until he could figure out how to better nourish the child. - 04/02/16

"It has been a long time since I have felt this content."
"I think I just got molested by a stranger... How humiliating." - 03/06/16

Sensed Averell and went for a visit only to find her being harassed by two strangers. Didn't hesitate to dive into the fray. Soon he and Averell was joined by others he did not recognize. By the end of it found himself a little bruised and bloody... and loving it. Found phantom sensations and a ghosting of memories become nearly overwhelming and a source of pleasure. Checked on Averell to make sure she wasn't too damaged and gave mutual bows to those who offered them to him first before slipping away from the group.
Found the pair of strangers again and instigated another brawl. Though at first looking for the feel of a challenge and a "fair" fight eventually ended up targeting the one that seemed more injured with dark intentions. Cackling all the while and not letting them slip away like a creeper. Was a little miffed when the other strangers, that which aided Averell and himself earlier, jumped in. Recognized that their intentions were meant to be in good favor and would not know that Rook started it himself, so did not retaliate against their intervention.
When the pair limped away for the second time found himself still very much enthralled by the adrenaline and wisps of memory, overly stimulated and restless. He would have found some other target to continue to feed the adrenaline had not Averell joined him in a rump and some play. Finally the sensations dwindled and his mind cleared so brought Averell to his resting spot for a sit and allow the falling snow to cool him further. - 06/16/16

"Do not worry, Little Kin, I will keep the stone of your shell in warmth..."
"Good evening, Dark Guardian. I trust you are faring well?"
(Finally Fixed Dead Music) - 12/25/15

"Welcome, Guardian of the Crystal Child. I must say I am surprised by your visit. Your company is like the Winterberry peeking over the snowdrift. It warms me in this chilly night..." - 12/23/15

"Your guardians grow in number, Little Kin... "
"I had almost forgotten how it felt to laugh. Thank you, though you may forget this day and this crumbling ruin too soon after. Dust to dust, ashes to ashes." - 12/12/15

(Fixed Dead Music (or not). Rook sat near his rock-kin. Derp.) - 12/11/15

"Something draws me in, a familiar feeling... I had almost mistaken it for Bishop but no, it is not my brother. Still, it sparks a faded memory. A day of birth and fission. Were you once a part of us? Do you hail from the same shadow of thought? The place that is remembered but just out of comprehensible reach? With him gone... this I must know...."
"I had hoped you to be Bishop returning to my side in this place of wood and dirt. A... rebirth, if you will? Though, as I drew near I knew I was foolish to even consider the possibility. But we were like you once... before we were split, before we became two... Now I am merely a shard, a withering wisp of darkness for I can not even be a shadow without my light, my twin. As I sit near I feel that with you perhaps I am not on my own. Perhaps, a new light may cast me into a new being. I may simply be delusional... but I do not care. I need an anchor, a heavy burden I may place on you.
Your guardian watches you faithfully. Is he here to protector you? To nurse you into this world? Or is he merely another drawn in with kinship as I? Perhaps, he is your bane. The one that will break you in half, enslave you, and introduce you to the world of war. If that is the case, I will stand by your side and I will show you how to break those chains as we had in a time before.
But I get ahead of myself and I have rambled on. We only just met and you are such a young soul to this world. I dream and fantasize, and dare I say, hope. I should not hope." - 12/09/15

"Your company is not unwelcome, M'lady Swan. My head swims with weary thoughts but it is your surprising company that keeps my mind afloat. Let me dream of dreams and rest my head upon the down of your shoulder... I do hope you do not mind..." - 04/17/15

"I searched for you today. I swear I saw every golden glow to be an image of you. Each time I grew close however it was merely a reflection of your ghost. I do not belong here, brother, not without you to give me purpose to be, to spark interest and excitement in the day to day. I find myself growing weary with boredom. At least the children find me entertaining. That is until they return to their adult counterparts. Perhaps I will amuse myself as we had in the beginning days. Surely someone would make a fine target." - 04/17/15

"I was surprised to find you still by my side when I awoke, my friendly scapegoat. If a bit more... colorful. Some soul must of thought those golden trumpets suit you. Even as still as death you are better company then the Monarch Runner." - 04/05/15

"Yes, fellow monarch, be my distraction... Let me house my troubles within the image of you. Let us flit through this forest on delicate wings of fragile bliss. Let us imagine this forest is as peaceful and fulfilling as it falsely portrays itself to be. Let us enjoy the company until it fades into the dream of forever, until it grants it's final promise of departure.
Funny, isn't it? My rivals always wore my mark and yet... you, of honey and brown hue, are the first I meet upon my awakening back into the forest of forever. Shall we prove to be rivals after all, in some time that may never come? Or shall we find peace in an ally? A fool can dream of futures untold that may never unfold. I will not hope but I will dream." - 04/04/15

"When the rain came a year ago I cried for you to bring him back to me, Little Clover, for he followed so readily... You did not hear my distress and he never returned. I fear my shadow is growing and I stretch thin as I reach for the half of me that had fled into the light of The Forever. I recall, in a time beyond memory, I took his life to keep him from you and save my heart from being crushed under the weight of being left behind. But in the end it did not mater. In this life I am forgotten and I am a shard of something to never be whole. Without him, Little Clover, I can not be - for a shadow needs the light to be seen. And without you... I am forgotten, forever more..." - 04/04/15