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They came to town on a misty morning, cape trailing behind and a helmet to hide their face.
This was nothing new. Travelers were always passing by.
They settled into the house in the heart of town, and in time them made themself known.
Their reputation was
Unparalleled combative skill,
Impeccable timing,
And a caring heart.
Tales of the newcomer spread.
"Their family was killed by plague, so
They seek the unobtainable.
But in their searches,
They defend those who have met their limit."
"They protect us from the apathetic wilds," said the town. "They are our Guardian."
Years pass, and countless lives are saved by their sword. On an overcast afternoon, the Guardian brings an unconscious traveler from the woods.
This was nothing new. Many find themselves under the care of the Guardian for a day.
The traveler awakens, and returns to his quest. In time, he made himself known.
His reputation was
Reckless combat,
Admirable endurance,
And the keenest of eyes.
Rumors of the stranger spread.
"He is cursed with a painful plague,
and seeks the unobtainable to cure it.
But in his explorations,
He has slain armies and tyrants."
"He may stay for a night, but will be gone for three," said the town. "He is our Drifter."
When the Guardian was home, the Drifter was not. When the Drifter stopped by, the Guardian was away. But in their travels, the two would cross paths, and the two knew each other well.
In the distance, three stone pillars rose in succession.
Before the north pillar rose, the Guardian traveled west,
As the west pillar rose, the Guardian forced themself east.
After the east pillar rose, the Guardian rested in their home.
Finally, the Guardian traveled south. A jetblack Jackal followed the Guardian, and the Drifter followed the Jackal.
On a raining evening, the Drifter stumbled into town alone.
This was nothing new. But never before had they been seen clutching the cape of a lost friend.
And on that day, nothing was said, for the death of the Guardian was being mourned.