Brinn, the Sage

Preface
Anyone could tell you that it is hard not to notice him. He draws a crowd like moths to a flame, and a flame he does use to dazzle. In the towns and villages, where the buildings open to allow people to gather, you can hear his songs. They say it is as though there is not one, but three of him, in perfect chorus. If you perchance see him, go, and sit, and listen. His words will cradle your mind, and ignite your heart. You will be brought into his world - to the gates of vigor and light.

He will take a step, and enter a whirlwind of sight and sound, his blade licking flames through the air, resonating the fire of your very soul. You will be drawn in, captivated by his ebb, by his flow, as though the sea itself were roaring, and the stars themselves were made bright only by this one, single performance.

Then, it will end. He will bow, you will clap, and he will depart. It will be as though he were never there, and yet the memory will never fade.

History
Brinn Gambol is a performer above all else, and a man to whom the open road is an ever-present companion. Like a fickle lover, it never tells him what comes next, but he prefers life to be uncertain, surprising, and adventurous. The city where he was born, was one of freedom, community, and art. Thus, despite a humble upbringing, Brinn took to life with a smile and a spring in his step. He performed on the streets of his home for the joy of it, far more than for the coins that were tossed his way. When his father passed and their humble home became too large for Brinn, he returned it to the city, received a healthy pouch of coin, and took to the open road. Since then, his has been a life of occasional danger, but frequent joy. With the coins given by the city, Brinn purchased a lovely curved blade from a travelling merchant. Despite the purchase being for protection, Brinn found the blade surprisingly easy to handle and maneuver, and his creative mind swam with the possibilities.

It wasn’t long before he began utilizing the blade in his performances. Saddling up with a circus for a time, Brinn learned formally how to use the curved blade in dance, to mimic the flowing of water, the rush of wind, or the passion of flame. It was to flame he took most fervently, however, and upon realizing this, the circus’ illusionist took the time to nurture Brinn’s enthusiasm, teaching him a few simple spells of illusion. To bend and compress light: to trick the senses themselves into feeling heat. He created a false fire to blend from his blade. Harmless, but so very in his control, the illusionary flame quickly became Brinn’s staple. For years he would practice his spins, that one day he might envelop himself and become the very sun itself, burning bright in the sky.

When he eventually left the circus, Brinn was determined to make a name for himself, so he might one day take his newfound skills and perform on a stage for nobility. While that day has yet to come, he yet travels with the blade in his hand, a spring in his step, and a song always in his heart. The people he meets - the sights he sees - always bring him new perspectives, and always teach him new lessons. Brinn is a man who carries the wisdom of every place he visits with him, wherever he yet goes next. He weaves the sights and stories into his songs, and thus into the hearts of all who bear witness to him.

Many who speak of him know not his name. Not for want of mystery - Brinn simply forgets to give it more often than not. Those who remember him know him only as a Minstrel and a Sage: imparting wisdom and merriment. By any chance, if you see him out there - in a tavern or on a road - go, relax, and listen. Toss him a coin or two. It will be more than worth your while.