Lessons for Sensible Living XII: Zariel's Fall
[The foreword to this brief account of Zariel's fall captures the tone of the entire text.] Greetings, Sensible Folk. Already, I can detect grumbling and the agitated rattle of pipe-stem against teeth. 'A Lesson dedicated to an Archduke of Avernus? Has Harrington taken leave of his senses?' Quiet your complaints - I assure you I have not. It is true that cosmic occurrences are often Insensible by their very nature, but the tale of Zariel strikes close to home. In her downfall, you will be reminded of those haughty, do-gooding neighbours and acquaintances who rightfully arouse your suspicions. One moment they are suggesting you grow turnips rather than potatoes on that fallow patch, and the next they have their kitchen knife strapped to their belt and are suggesting you explore the abandoned crypt behind the Giles' farm. In short, Zariel was a celestial being tasked with monitoring the ebb and flow of the Blood War (of which more in Volume XXI: Matters of Little Importance to Sensible Folk). Observing was not righteous enough for Zariel though and she took it upon herself to become directly involved. Like the oaf who sees two fellows fighting over a spilled tankard of ale and, rather than applauding their efforts, cracks their skulls together and causes a tavern-wide brawl. She invaded Avernus, was defeated, and now rules there, corrupt and wicked. What can Sensible Folk learn from this foolish tale? It is obvious! Do not strive to correct what cannot be corrected. Look not to distant lands and conflicts, but to your fields, your family and your friends. There is nothing but misery to be gained from interfering in the hardships of others. Harrington Nethalin