Because of these black rocks on my body, I had no choice but to leave my homeland, the place where my ancestors defended generations after generations. It may have caused lots of pain and suffering, but, looking back, I cannot help but smile. That said, how am I supposed to live when I have to cut all my ties with Minos and abandon my roots? I would yet like another taste of the herb cakes from Athenius. I wish to enjoy the fine wine from Lachedamon. I want to be able to bring home souvenirs from the Lachedamon markets again. I hope I'll yet be able to lay my heart bare to the scholars, spar with the warriors, and negotiate with the merchants there. I wonder when I will get to enjoy my life so once again? Mountains of Minos, please allow me to continue my ramblings. O Almighty Athos, do you nurture your faithful children of Minos still? I but wish that those faithful believers who drink your springwater yet give to you their praises and offerings. Hymnoi, my most respected teacher. Are there still those who seek the meaning of life from your embrace? I know you keep to yourself, but if those who seek your help are true to heart, I ask you to please guide them to the right path. O Helia, respected and majestic Helia. Are there yet simpletons who attempt to make their way to your summit merely for fame? Please, let them return home safely after your punishments. They are young and immature. Please do not take away their future for your brief moments of fury. The lands of Minos. Words cannot describe how beautiful you are, and nothing comes close to your magnificence. Yet I must say these words and mark them down for prosperity. These are only words that a Forte, far away from home, still has for comfort. Should these words go unsaid, these woes deep in my heart will endanger even my life. Please forgive me for resorting to such shallow methods to compose myself. I will yet wander outside your domain. It may take several years, perhaps decades. But I promise you this. It matters not how long. I will once again return to your embrace. This is the truest, most sincere oath that a Minoan can take. I am certain you can hear me. This rock, mined in Aegean, yet remains affixed to my hammer. With it, I will make it through all obstacles in life. It will bear witness to my faith, hear my odes, and execute these great deeds with me. After countless trials and tribulations, the melodies of my return shall be sounded. At that moment in time, it will recant to you these writings of mine at the temple. I will ever hold out hope that this day will be soon. —Excerpts from some disorganized scribblings written by Pallas.