After returning from the village by way of a bonfire, I've made my way to the fire keeper for her assistance in my journey. The past ashen ones have told that fire keepers can strengthen us as long as we have the required amount of souls to do so.

Fire keeper: Welcome home, ashen one. Speak thine heart's desire.

Alex: I seek your help to continue my journey. Please grant me the strength that you can provide.

 Fire keeper: Very well. Then touch the darkness within me. Take nourishment from these sovereign less souls.

I kneeled before her and raised my hand in front of her, holding the souls for her. As she transfer them into me, my body started to feel like I was born a new person as the souls I currently hold now fades away from my hand. I will appreciate her far more in the future once I battle the past lords.

Alex(rises up): Thank you for your help and farewell  

Fire keeper: Farewell, Ashen one. May the flames guide thee 

After receiving the strength, I suddenly remember that the pilgrim, Yoel, can help me with his sorceries. it might assist me as well. While I began to search for him, I've noticed more people here, either hiding from the hollows or hoping to find comfort in this world. A blind old woman stuck in a chair and a blacksmith, crafting endless weapons for on and off travelers. Perhaps I should find any sane people and tell them of the shrine, they might appreciate more company. It took a while but I've found Yoel, waiting for his "champion of ash" as he called me earlier.

Yoel: Oh, our  champion of ash, welcome home. This pilgrim, with a debt in death, hardly deserves to behold this divine flame. And I never would have, had you not taken me into your service. I thank you dearly for this...And assure you of my leal service.

Alex: Of course, I do need your help. you mentioned your sorcery so perhaps you can teach me as such.

Yoel: As I have said, I was once a sorcerer. Alas, the magic of Londor is a far cry from the wonders of Vinheim. But I can teach you what I know. Perhaps more importantly... I believe that I can help tease out your true strength. We pilgrims of Londor are keenly aware. That those branded by the Darksign possess something quite special...

Alex(curious): I see...So my Darksign can help me in this journey. Can you show me?

  Yoel: Then, shall we begin? Bearer of the Darksign, let your true strength shine..

I kneeled before him, just like what I've done with the fire keeper and he was correct, I gained power but after that, my skin started to feel...tighter and my Darksign began to hurt a bit...Hopefully it is nothing for now.

Yoel:  Ahh, you have attained ample strength. All will soon be clear, my good Lord...

Alex: Thank you. Hopefully you will answer some of my questions once I return. Good bye for now.

Yoel: Be safe, our lord...

Lord now? Perhaps it will be answered once I talk to him after my return. Back at the bonfire, now prepared and fully rested. Time to go back to blood stained land...

Hello! AM here and wow, months since the last chapter. I'm really sorry for that. Hopefully you'll forgive me! I going to use the .5 chapters as a way to bridge the gaps and as a excuse to bring out more of my OC drawings. AM out!!