Finally I awoke. They tell me I slept for 3 nights and that Isolde had refused to leave my side.
The town was filled with relief and jubilation, they were having a celebration. I spoke to several of those with whom I had grown fond of, and began to tell them my account of the battle. A small crowd formed as I continued to tell the story. They all cheered as it came to an end and they continued their party. But this joy was wasted on me, I felt lost and alone. When I close my eyes I see moments of the battle flash before me and in silence I'm haunted by the voice of Andariel and the cries of Isolde. I'm troubled by the anguish I felt, even though I know it was Andariel's influence over me.
I went to Akara to see if she knew where Isolde was, but before she would tell me she had to tell me something else.
With deep sorrow she told me she has heard word of Diablo's corruption further East, from the city known as Lut Gholein. She weeps for me, for she knows that I must follow. Warriv is already preparing a caravan for the morning.
She hugged me and thanked me. We said our goodbyes and she told me where I could possibly find Isolde.
I found Isolde outside a supply tent, her once brave face now riddled with shame and guilt. I called to her but she held her downward stare. I asked her how she was doing and she began to cry. I tried to comfort her and after awhile she broke her silence. She's ashamed of herself, she had fallen prey to Andariel's influence and froze in battle. And, just like me her anguish still haunts her, the pain is still real.
I told her I forgave her, and how I had succumb too but was broken free by the sound of her voice. I could see some light return to her face as she searched mine for truth.
We sat for awhile in silence, finding comfort in each other's presence.
But, alas, I had to tell her the news. She demanded to come with me to Lut Gholein but I refused her company. She needs to stay with the sisters and protect them. She is the only one who has truly seen the strength of the demons; they will need her strength and bravery if they are to fully take back the Monastery and defend themselves. She was angered by my answer, but ultimately she knows it to be true. I told her I was leaving at dawn. She grabbed me tight and held for a long while, she told me she would be there to see me off at dawn.