Those Who Sharpen the Mind

Roots and Books

The cool gentle breeze teased the pages of Un'debro's book. He sat in the shade of a lone tree on a hill not far from the grand city-state of Haimore. The tree sat as a beacon of individuality and stoicism on the hill. It had a view of the surrounding hills, forest, and city. Un'debro purposely sat on the side of the tree that faced the vast forest known as the "Green Caverns''. The canopy of the forest is so thick it creates an unsettling darkness. It is said that the darkness is so disorienting that only creatures that have stronger senses than vision can navigate with any sort of understanding.

Un'debro appreciated the view of the top of the canopy because it seemed to free his mind to wander. He much preferred this over the highly manufactured rows of manmade structures of Haimore. And, the roots on this side of the tree were just more comfortable for reading. Of course, Un'tra knew of these preferences and used this to position himself in an attempt of stealth.

"What can I do for you son?" Un'debro said without lifting his head from his reading.

"How can you always know I am coming? I know no one else who seems to see the future quite like you mentor." Un'tra said as he gave up his attempt at stealth.

"My young boy, the hawk does not think about where the field mouse is but where he will be once he senses danger." Un'debro said in his well-known and often irritating riddling manner.

"Mentor, why must everything be a lesson, a story, or some sort of riddle with you?"

"Ha, the day I don't challenge your understanding of the Path and its mysteries is the day you stray from it. Nonetheless, I am no magic oracle. You spooked a robin with your clumsy steps. I see we need to increase your mobility training. How can you defend someone if you move your feet poorly? Like this mighty oak, you get your power from the bottom up."

Un'tra sat beside his mentor and broke off a piece of sweet bread for him. As he did this he tilted his head below the slant of the book in Un'debro's hand. He asked,

"'The Rocks Sing at Night' Why do you read such nonsense?"

"Such a narrow Path your mind has forged today. I learn about the rocks because their Path is just as important as anything that takes breath. The gods did not develop the Path of each living creature and forget about what surrounds them. You may not realize it yet, but the rock will share its secrets with those who know its Path and are worthy." Un'debro rattled on in his true form as a constant teacher of the Path and worthiness.

"I know the faithful of the Holi-inte must learn the Paths of all that exists, but why should I care to be worthy of a rock? The rock is not conscious and merely on the Path as an obstacle. How is the rock worth it to me?" Un'tra retorted defiantly.

"It's not yet for me to know or to give you. Merely knowing that the Path exists for the rock gives it worth and me peace. By studying it I become worthy of its secrets."

"Worthy of what secrets!?" Un'tra asked in utter confusion.

"Secrets of not being crushed, breaking the wheels of my carriage, or even the annoyance of plaguing my boots." Un'debro said with a jovial smile as he nudged his student encouragingly.

Un'debro's age is unknown, but the slight graying of the edges of his hair leads many to believe he is in his 50s. His skin is not wrinkled and his eyes have no fade to them from age. This may be due to the stress-free lifestyle he diligently maintains. He spends his days reading books, delivering thought-provoking lessons, and training his body physically. His mind is as brilliant as his polished Holi-inte armor is bright. His mirror-like armor reflects sunlight to the dismay of the Holi-inte adepts who must listen to his teachings through the assault on their eyes. Un'debro is the most respected teacher and de facto leader of the Holi-inte order. He tends to his students' needs and brings the lessons of faith and the Path to each of his students.