Bella

Biography

Early Life and The Cleansing Wave

Bella was born in 2666. A pivotal event in her early life occurred in 2683 when her adoptive mother was tragically killed by Zehiri cultists. This loss likely shaped her strong sense of justice and compassion for those suffering under oppressive forces.

The following year, 2684, Bella met Lok, forming the initial partnership that would become the foundation of The Cleansing Wave. Their bond was exceptionally close, with some accounts suggesting a deep, unrequited love between them. In 2685, they were joined by Brak, and later that same year, Glade completed the core group of four. By 2687, with the addition of Melody, The Cleansing Wave was fully formed, a "sparkling shape of five sides."

For several years, The Cleansing Wave fought for the freedom of the people in the Dryft Empire before departing for Khurabil.

Campaigns in Khurabil

The Cleansing Wave arrived in the region that would become Khurabil in 2688. Bella consistently led from the front, inspiring all who saw her with her courage and conviction. Her leadership was crucial in numerous significant campaigns:

• Liberation of the Kaelen Peninsula (2688): Bella led the charge in freeing much of the Kaelen Peninsula from warlords, rescuing various humanoid peoples and securing safe passage for them.
• Fall of The House of Night (2688): Bella was at the heart of the fierce night battle near what is now Battervold. When the Black Dragon, Nullatrix (the Night Terror), attacked their camp, Bella was severely injured. However, Lok bravely protected her, and ultimately, Bella, described as the "very picture of healing beauty" with "gossamer pearlescent wings," stood beside Lok as he delivered the final blow to the great wyrm, ending its dynasty.
• Routing of Orcs (2689): She oversaw the expulsion of Orcs from central Khurabil.
• Defeat of The Sylvan Plague (2690): Bella, along with her companions and the newly allied Vanguard (led by Bruno), orchestrated an ambush to defeat the Green Dragon, Mervygrus (The Sylvan Plague). This victory liberated a vast ancient forest and its many captive inhabitants, predominantly elves and halflings. Bella's respect for the Elves' claim to their ancestral forest, while advocating for all its inhabitants, showcased her diplomatic wisdom.
• Pushing Back Giants (2691): She was instrumental in driving giants back to the south and west of the Earthspine Mountains, bolstering dwarven and gnomish strongholds.
• The Coldest Winter and Loss of Melody (2691): Bella was part of the tragic expedition into a snowy mountain pass, where The Cleansing Wave, alongside Moradin's Hammer, encountered Bikorreth, a powerful White Dragon. In this harrowing fight, Melody was tragically killed. Bella's "wailing tears" after this event underscored the profound grief and the indelible scar this loss left on the group.
• Slaying Bikorreth (2691): Despite their immense sorrow, Bella and the remaining members of The Cleansing Wave later sought out and slew the White Dragon Bikorreth, ensuring it "did not see another winter."

Leadership Style

Bella was known for her exceptional ability to gather and inspire people. She sought out and welcomed those willing to fight for freedom, transforming freed captives into allies and an army. Her compassion was evident in her insistence on making refugees comfortable and listening to their stories. While always focused on the "next need to address and the next person to help," she recognized the importance of a home for her weary companions.

Personal Life and Legacy

• "Bella's Home": In 2690, following intense campaigns, The Cleansing Wave established a small, safe refuge by a lake in a distinct section of forest, named for its "deep green." This became a central gathering point. By 2692, Bella, Lok, Brak, Glade, and Melody began constructing a permanent home there. Lok insisted it be called "Bella's home," reflecting her profound connection to the place. This small tower and the surrounding community grew into a prosperous settlement, serving as a haven and symbol of the Cleansing Wave's ideals.
• Role in Founding Settlements: Bella's direct and indirect influence led to the establishment or security of several key settlements, including Port Zaram, Bel Haim, Oxenhalt, and Steinwark.
• Death (2722): Bella died in 2722, approximately three and a half decades after The Cleansing Wave was fully formed. Her death marked a significant turning point for the group, leading to Lok's departure from Belhaim and the gradual dissolution of their constant togetherness.

Enduring Influence

Bella's legend is woven into the fabric of Khurabil. She is often seen as a symbol of hope and liberation, a figure whose presence could turn the tide of despair. Storytellers often conjecture that "whatever god is most favoured by the storyteller put Bella among us to help the world." While the Cleansing Wave ultimately became a "broken pentacle" after Melody's death and Bella's passing, their individual acts of kindness and great deeds continued. Bella's legacy persists as a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of collective action in the face of tyranny.