Jonric's Missives

Index

• Missives
• Godsday, the 15th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 1)
• Workday, the 16th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 2)
• Swordsday, the 17th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 3, Session 4)
• Spellsday, the 18th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 4)
• Portsday, the 20th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 5)
• Swordsday, the 24th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA (Session 6)
• Restday, the 7th of Goldensun, 1001 YA (Session 7)
• Workday, the 9th of Goldensun, 1001 YA (Session 8)
• Swordsday, the 10th of Goldensun, 1001 YA (Session 9)
• Helmsday, the 12th of Goldensun, 1001 YA (Session 10)
• Godsday, the 15th of Goldensun, 1001 YA (Session 11)
• Spellsday, the 4th of Clearskies, 1001 YA (Sessions 12, 13,14 and 15)
• Portsday, the 13th of Clearskies, 1001 YA (Session 16)
• (Session 17)
• (Session 18)
• (Session 19)
• Godsday, the 1st of Bloodsails, 1001 YA (Session 20)
• (Session 21)
• Godsday, the 15th of Bloodsails, 1001 YA (Session 23)
• Swordsday, the 17th of Bloodsails, 1001 YA (Session 24)
• (Session 25)
• Workday, the 2nd of Warsend, 1001 YA (Session 26)
• Helmday, the 5nd of Warsend, 1001 YA (Session 27)
• (Session 28)
• Entry 29
• Helmsday, the 5th of Waterfall, 1001 YA (Entry 30)
• Entry 31
• Entry 32
• Entry 33
• Entry 34
• Entry 35
• Entry 36
• Entry 37: A Break from Training
  
• Entry 38: Cooked Chunkra Under an Open Sky
  
• Entry 39: Darkness and Theories
  

Missives

Session 1

Godsday, the 15th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

Lyssiah and I have arrived in Serova, but have been stranded inside the city due to the arrival of the Bloodwind Monsoons two months ago.  We have yet to find any trace of Farlen, but we have escorted our new (formerly shipwrecked) friends back to their home.

I feel very out of place in these over-populated towns and cities into which the inhabitants of this island flock, but in other ways I find many similarities to types of natural environments.  I am very naive concerning the complex interactions and behaviors ("customs" and "proper social behavior" according to Sarkessian) of these people, even though by blood I am one of them.  I must thank you again for sending Lyssiah with us, otherwise I would be both alone and out of my habitat without help.

It is a very strange feeling, returning to Arrendra after twelve years in my adopted home of Naeben.  I hope to see the Grayhill Woods soon, where I lived with mother and father before father's death.  Father was Ranger-Guardian of the area, so perhaps the visit will provide some inspiration on how to awaken some (nay, any) of the Wildblade's power.  I wish father was here to to teach me the blade's secrets.

The last few days of our travel to Serova were uneventful, but the peace and quiet did not last once the Bloodwind Monsoons arrived.  Unfortunately, while nourishing ourselves in an eating establishment recently, Sarkessian and Thomys became involved in what they later told me was a "bar fight" or "tavern brawl".  Qal explained that the disagreement involved Sarkessian's house (similar to an extended family or clan), called Erekose, and another house, named Corbeth.

Lyssiah and I tried to avoid involvement in the conflict, but we were targeted due to our association with our friends (and once they were attacked I felt obligated to help).   During the battle the house champions (head warrior males of each clan, but not the leaders) slew each other, leading to mourning and greater animosity between the houses.

Sarkessian was somehow involved more deeply in the affair than I know, and was restricted to the household during the mourning.  In the evening, Lyssiah, Qal, Thomys, and I attended the funeral of Urre Sandor, house champion of Erekose, in the city's Temple of the Hand of Mercy.  'Tis very odd, the Serovans put their dead in containers above ground.  They do not bury their dead in the soil or allow the small creatures and elements to complete the cycle of life to death to new life.  Thomys reassured me that the worms would get the corpse eventually, but it did not put my mind at ease.

As we left the funeral we ran across groups of undead attacking mourners!  Through a combination of turning, spells, and physical force we destroyed the unnatural creations.  Thomys impressed two women who were being attacked by the undead, but he put much effort into the act.  It reminded me of the spectacular combat displays of the forian monkeys, designed to impress the females and intimidate other rival males.  I won't mention this observation to him though as most Arrendrans seem insulted by comparing their behavior to nature's creatures, although I do not understand why.

During the combat I noticed a shadowy figure lurking in the alleys.  The figure quickly left the scene once noticed, leading me to believe they were the summoner of the undead.  Lyssiah tracked the culprit through alleys, and I determined they had met others and then rode off on horseback.  'Tis yet another way the city reminds me of the wilderness, since our tracking skills have been useful even here.  After I described the figure Qal suspects the "Cult of the Dark Prophecy", an evil group of undead worshipers.

We surmised that the undead attack was a diversion away from the temple, so we returned to investigate.  Father Emmanuel, high priest of the temple, reported that several items were missing.  We asked what the intruders might have been after, and he discovered the key to the tomb of Master Gregor, one of the Champions of Alaster, was missing.

We rushed to the tomb and found undead, orcs, and a female clocked in black looting the tomb.  We fought bravely but the female was too powerful, stealing the Dril-Boo of Master Gregor and escaping in incorporeal form.  We dispatched the other creatures and undead, but Thomys fell wounded once during the fight, requiring the blessing of the Green Man to revitalize him.  Afterward I noticed Qal directing our attention away from the crypt, probably protecting any remaining holy items from looting by the rest of us.  I would not want someone looting blessed items of the Green Man, so I would not loot another's holy items.

Afterward, Father Emmanuel explained that several items were missing from the temple.  After much discussion we learned that the Dril-Boo was one of three other items used by the Champions of Alaster to dispatch the Lich Queen Surgotha two centuries ago.  We guess the item is to be used to somehow revive the Dark Queen, and that the other tombs were probably looted simultaneously.

Father Emmanuel then asks us to consider investigating this for him.  I was concerned about the appearance of serving another deity, but after prayer I am confident that the involvement of the unnatural undeath in this situation justifies my involvement in the name of the Green Man.

We then returned to the Erekose household to attend the wake (a gathering after the funeral to both mourn and celebrate the deceased, according to Qal).  Thomys and Qal enjoyed themselves, further impressing the young women from earlier through creative retelling of the day's events.  I found an unoccupied corner and watched the gathering, attempting to learn more about the Serovan's customs and social behaviors.  Later I returned to my room, where I am now writing this letter.

I believe we will soon leave Serova both to investigate the activities of the Cult of the Dark Prophecy and to search for Farlen.  As usual, I will send this letter as soon as I find a willing and capable avian to carry it to Naeben.

Jonric

Session 2

Workday, the 16th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

I forgot to tell you of Qal's talented singing during the wake in my last letter.  He apparently had discovered further knowledge of Surgotha, because his musical tale contained much information about the Champions of Alaster.  Master Gregor the Psion, Grand Magus Celebrus, Hierophant Kerana of the Goddess of the Moon, and Warlord Tarnaron somehow banished Surgotha with a rite created by Celebrus (using their Dril-Boo, Robes, Falactory, and Shield respectively) in vengeance for her sinking of their home island of Alaster.  Quite a tale!

In the morning we visited Father Emmanuel, who since our last visit had divinated that the woman (referred to him as "The Graven One") who looted the Dril-Boo from Gregor's tomb was also responsible for the summoning of the undead.  He asked us to take word to the Merciful One's temple in Badherra and find out of the other relics had been stolen.  I asked if he knew where the other champions (and thus their relics) had been been buried.  He did not know, but said the temple in Badherra would probably know, and if not the main temple in the capital city of Arrendra would surely have that information.

Sarkessian noted that House Sandor, to whom Erekose is allied, is present in Badherra.  He said we could borrow horses from his father's house and return them to Sandor, accomplishing the dual goals of our task for Father Emmanuel and notifying House Sander of the death of Uree (Erekose's former house champion).  Thomys attempted to bargain up the offered payment from Father Emmanuel, but when we discovered that the priest was generously offering the amount to each of us (and not the to whole group to be split) the matter was quickly dropped.  I suggested that Emmanuel may be able to offer us healing potions at cost, and he agreed to provide them in leui of the payment to all those who so desired.

We agreed to the task and returned to Sarkessian's home.  Sarkessian obtained permission to borrow the horses, after which we discussed our travel plans.  We planned to travel by horse from Serova, stopping in the village of Valenze, and arriving in the city of Badherra by the end of the day.

After gathering our supplies and the horses we left town.  While leaving Thomys and Qal teased me about possibly being elven, half-elven, or an elven pretender.  I don't understand why these "civilized" people think all woodsman and worshipers of nature must be elven.  Sometimes I think they are too involved in human interactions or seeking wealth and power to notice the wonderful world around them.  I explained that I am quite proud of my human parentage and offered to tell them of my family, but they did not seem interested.  Sarkessian was curious about Naeben, so during our ride I told him about the island of the fey and our philosophies about living in harmony and respect with nature. Perhaps there is hope yet.

Several hours later highwaymen attempted to waylay us!  Sarkessian and Thomys quickly dealt with the leader, while Lyssiah, Qal, and I took care of three of his four goblin companions.  I held the remaining goblin at sword point while we decided what to do with him.  Qal urged mercy to the remaining goblin, emphasizing they had to make a living somehow.  Apparently Qal is not aware of the intrinsically evil nature of the goblins, and I did not wish to be waylaid on our return trip to Serova by the goblin and any reinforcements he would fetch.

More sensibly, Thomys questioned him for information and discovered he was a recently freed slave pirate whose parent ship had run aground nearby.  After threatening the goblin bandit and steering him towards raiding "the rich yet weak" House Corbeth ships, Thomys released the monster to spread the misinformation.  We continued our ride.

As we continured out journey, we noticed ominous looking smoke wafting into the air.  We quickly approached the building to find one in flames, violently discarded clothing, and a man's body hanging from the rafters.  We assumed the bandits who had threatened us belonged to the same pirate vessel that had attacked these people.

While the rest of us discussed possibilities Lyssiah snuck to the top of the cliff and spotted the pirate vessel.  The vessel itself was in the harbor, whereas the apparently recent prisoners (three women and a girl) were being molested on the beach by four hobgolbins, two bugbears, and nine goblins.  Corals of stolen animals were also present on the beach.

We spent several minutes formulating a plan, worrying that dusk would soon be upon us. I thought that we were too outnumbered (especially if the pirate ship sent reinforcements to shore) and we would have greater success by fetching the authorities from Valenze (to deal with the pirate ship itself in addition to the ones ashore). The others felt we should attempt an immediate rescue ourselves. I could not let my friends attempt this overly dangerous action without my assistance, so I agreed to help.

I obviously do not understand the Arrendran attitude toward slavery. They see slavery at their own hands as acceptable, but as wrong at the hands of the evil races. When I mentioned this Thomys said "it is permissible to own a sword, but not to steal a sword", referring to the capture of free people or theft of slaves as wrong. Mother told me about a time when slavery was outlawed in Arrendra, so this attitude must be from the Arnish influence upon the island since it's conquest. As we know, all creatures should be free to live among nature and decide their own fate. I have a premonition that this permissive attitude toward slavery will be a difficult perspective to change.

At first we decided Lyssiah and I would provide cover fire from the cliff while Sarkessian and Thomys quickly rode in and grabbed the prisoners. Qal then started insinuating cowardice on my part for not riding with the others. Apparently he did not know my skill with the bow (almost as good as Lyssiah), nor the value of cover fire in hit and run tactics. Perhaps he was upset from my teasing about how "the nice goblins were just making a living". To placate him I offered to ride with the others (since I am also a skilled rider in addition to my empathy with animals) so he could stay back and provide cover fire, but he insisted on riding into battle also. He is my friend, but sometimes I wonder about him.

Sarkessian, Thomys, Qal, and I approached the camp fast along the beach. The hobgoblins did not notice us until we were almost upon the first coral. We charged the bugbears and their hobgoblin leaders first since they were a much greater threat than the goblins. Lyssiah fired expertly from the cliff above, providing further strength to our attack. Through skill and incredible luck we quickly killed the bugbears and hobgoblins, although Sarkessian did once fall from his horse. Sarkessian's and Qal's mounts were wounded significantly however (I must tend to them soon now that we have arrived in town).

After dispatching the remaining goblins we quickly grabbed the prisoners and some extra horses. I wanted to quickly search the bodies since the reinforcements would make it to shore for a bit, but the others insisted (wisely in hindsight) on leaving immediately. With the blessing of the Green Man I healed all four of the former prisoners so they would be conscious for the ride, then we rode hard and made it to Valenze after sunset.

I am too exhausted to write further, so I will continue in my next letter. Still no sign of Farlen, but I will investigate further in Badherra. Until our next meeting.

Jonric

Session 3

Swordsday, the 17th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

I pet a dragon!  A very young silver dragon!  Amazing, a dragon walking through the middle of Badherra!  The dragon was escorted by a man who said the dragon was under his protection at the behest of the dragon's father.  The man let me pet the dragon!  Qal (who understood Draconic) said the man appeared to be a Dragonmage from Tallismir.  He said the dragon detected that we were of differing philosophies, but that the mage reassured the dragon after he saw the symbol of the Green Man hung from my neck.

Anyway, I'm ahead of myself, back to Valenze.  After we notified the authorities about the pirate ship, we gathered in the local inn and tavern.  When I asked for information about Farlen, the innkeeper referred me to the local ranger, Rarren Farsday, who happened to be nearby.  Rarren apparently does not understand our philosophies, because he rudely ranted about Naeben putting nature before people and how he knew that people should be higher priority.  I attempted to explain how we hold all of the Green Man's wards, including plants, animals, and people, equally, but he would not hear of it.  He was so rude that nearby townspeople apologized to me.

Luckily though Rarren was willing to tell me of his encounter with Farlen. He said Farlen has been through the area searching for the tomb of the warlord Dranethmyr.  Rarren said he told Farlen that there was no tomb because the warlord died in the Halls of the Barrowking, south-east of Valenze near the town of Fiori.  According to Qal, Dranethmyr, known as "Orcslayer", carried two special weapons: "Orcsbane", a composite longbow with a special effectiveness against orcs, and "Trollclaw", a bastard sword of extremely deadly force.  Trollclaw was crafted by Lucian Blademagus, a famous magical weapon crafter in Badherra.  Farlen must be searching for weapons to use against the orc invaders of Erestia.  I will attempt to visit Lucian after we arrive in Badherra for more information.

Thomys had struck a deal with the sheriff of the town where, if we participated in the attack against the pirates, we could salvage the vessel and the townspeople would keep the cargo.  Thomys wants a vessel of his own very much.  Unfortunately the next morning a scout for the town discovered the pirates had escaped the harbor.  We then decided to continue onto Badherra.

Badherra definitely lives up to its title of "the city of bridges".  Many bridges connect small islands separated by canals.  We delivered Father Emmanuel's message to the Temple of the Blessed Touch.  Mother Ingrid, head of the temple, was too busy attending to some noble looking people, so Brother Yohan bid us to return the next morning for an appointment with Mother Ingrid.  We tried explaining the priority of the situation to Brother Yohan but he would not yield.  Perhaps it was due to Qal's drunken behavior and yelling after the temple service.

We split up after leaving the church, and planned to meet in the evening at the inn.  Sarkessian discovered that the Sea Condor, the same pirate ship we fought near Valenze, was docked in the harbor!  He brought charges against the pirates, so we must testify against them at a trial tomorrow.

Lyssiah and I decided to verify the identify of the Sea Condor to make absolutely sure it was the same pirate ship we fought near Valenze. After we examined the ship and determined it was the same vessel, we heard a large ruckus in the nearby tavern.  After we read the sign we noticed it was the Crying Cockrel, the same tavern Sarkessian and Qal said they were going to that evening.  That interesting encounter is left for my next letter.

May the blessing of the Green Man watch over you,

Jonric

Session 4

Spellsday, the 18th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

Blessing of the Green Man to you.  Where did I leave off?  Oh yes, Qal's tavern brawl.

Once we heard the noise from the drinking establishment, Lyssiah and I approached and looked through the windows.  Qal was surrounded by angry orcs, and Sarkessian was not around to help him.  Qal was looking for a fight and it looked like he found one (or one found him).  I decided to wait and let Qal try to handle the situation of his own apparent creation himself, and become involved only if Qal was in trouble.

Orc, goblin, and human were all tangled in a mess of drunken combat.  The barkeep was none too happy with the behavior of his patrons.  Qal seemed in over his head with the group of orcs.  Several orc punches hit Qal, and he was not faring so well.

Suddenly Thomys flew in from behind into the tavern while muttering something about loosing no more friends in this same place, and engaged several patrons.  Almost at the same time, Qal ran across the bar and jumped out the window.  He was in bad shape so I healed him with the Wild One's blessing, but Qal then headed back in, probably to assist Thomys.  Lyssiah also entered and engaged an orc.  Soon afterward most of the tavern's occupants were either unconscious or sitting back down.

We then noticed a skull masked priest of the Keeper of the Dead directing two monkish followers to pick up bodies and take them, saying something about "more souls for the Keeper".  Qal approached the priest and confronted him, but one of his followers knocked Qal unconscious then picked up his unresponsive body!  I can only assume he was planning to give their souls to the Keeper, and keep the bodies to create his own undead minions!  Foul, unnatural undead!

I had to help Qal so I entered the tavern.  I used a shockwave orison to knock down the monk carrying Qal (thank my mother for teaching me that spell next time you talk to her, I did not believe it was worth learning until now).  Lyssiah then moved forward, scooped up Qal, and moved away.  One of the monks engaged me in combat, but I was able to dispatch him.

Lyssiah dropped Qal and engaged the other monk with Thomys, taking him down shortly thereafter.  The Keeper's priest began retreating once he saw his escort loosing the fight.  Thomys attempted to stop him, but was blocked by a sanctuary created by the priest.  The barkeep had enough and threw a stone of thunder, deafing Lyssiah, Qal, and I.  Lyssiah grabbed Qal's unconscious body and dragged him out of the tavern.  I tossed a few gold coins to the barkeep for some of the damage.  We then returned to our inn, and soon afterward Sarkessian also returned.

After resting, healing, and explaining to Qal the risk he put us and Sarkessian's court case in, Qal promised to think forward a bit more.  After some discussion we decided that tomorrow Qal, Thomys, and I would go to the Temple of the Blessed Touch to meet Mother Ingrid, and Sarkessian and Lyssiah would attend the court hearing.

I went downstairs and asked the innkeeper about Lucian Blademagus, the weaponsmith that forged Dranethmyr's weapons that Rarren said lived here in Badherra.  The innkeeper told me that Lucian lives in the hills outside of town (for safety of the town from his summonings), and that a Master Ren was collecting weapons crafted by Lucian (perhaps Master Ren is Farlen?).  I was not tired so I took a seat in the lobby and passed the time in meditation.

Soon Sarkessian entered and asked me to help him learn to fight with two weapons simultaneously.  We sparred for a while, during which time he asked about Naeben and my past.  I told him about our home, our philosophy of balance with nature, and of my family's past life in Arrendra before Arnish troops killed Father.  I also told him about the orcish legions of Arn that invaded Erestia, and of Lyssiah's desire to free her homeland from the foul beasts.

Sarkessian said he saw the evil and injustice of Arn's ways and its stranglehold on many of the Bloodwind Isle nations, and that he hoped to unite a free Arrendra one day.  I told him of my hope that the remaining free islands (such as Naeben and Porren), the rebels (like the free elves from Erestia and the Dalmoran resistance), and a free and nature respecting Arrendra would one day rise up against Arn in unison.  I also mentioned to watch where and to whom he talked of these hopes, since one never knows where a spy for the Arcanists may be lurking.

Sarkessian learned the new style of dual swordplay quickly, and it was apparent he would soon be quite proficient.  Afterward I returned upstairs, relayed the information about Lucian to Lyssiah, then went to sleep.

In the morning we awoke, ate breakfast, then split up.  At the temple Thomys, Qal, and I spoke with Mother Ingrid (after Qal apologized for his previous behavior, which was very surprising).  She told us that the other tombs had been also raided, but that all of the tombs contained fake relics!  The real items had been hidden away long ago in safer locations, very clever!  Qal asked how we could help, and Mother Ingrid asked us to deliver a message to the small homlet of Skyreach (which possessed a sanctuary she could not contact).  Thomys negotiated payment (another skill he is quite talented at), and we agreed to the task.

Later, Sarkessian and Lyssiah returned to the inn.  Sarkessian had won a close court case against the pirates, and would split the reward with the rest of us!  I am considering purchasing some new lightweight armor of mithril with my share, but have not yet made my final decision.  No matter my purchase, it will surely be portable and utilitarian as Farlen taught me.

We decided to wait a day before beginning our travels so each of us could take care of business in town.  Lyssiah and I plan to visit Lucian for information about his weapons and Farlen, and the others all have their own business to complete.

Although Thomys is not thrilled about visiting a small homlet, I must admit I am quite looking forward to our journey.  I can not wait to get out of the city and back into more natural areas for at least a day or two.  I miss the open sky of stars overhead while falling asleep, and the sound of singing birds waking me in the morning.  I also remember from my studies that an interesting variety of wolf inhabits the area we will be traveling through, and I hope to see one soon.

May the trees shade you during the noon sun,

Jonric

Session 5

Portsday, the 20th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

Upon waking this morning we visited the the Temple of the Blessed Touch (except for Qal, who decided to stay in Badherra and study during our errand).  We arrived towards the end of their service, and once it ended Brother Yohan bid us to join Mother Ingrid in her office for an audience.

Mother Ingrid asked us to take some messages to Brother Cassius at the Sanctuary in Skyreach, a small homlet approximately one days ride to the northwest from Badherra.  She gave Sarkessian a small chest, presumably containing the messages.

I asked her several questions concerning what to expect along the route to Skyreach and at the Sanctuary itself.  She said Skyreach was a small homlet with a population of about fifty.  The Sanctuary, tended by five priests plus monks and guards, contained many places to meditate and tome of knowledge.

She believed that the Cult of the Dark Prophecy had no reason to attack Sanctuary, but to beware of the barbarians of Rom and large Rocs on the way.  We then bid her farewell, and Thomys collected his negotiated payment of a warhorse.  We rode from Badherra soon afterward.

The first part of our journey was uneventful.  Lyssiah took the lead and scouted ahead.  Thomys and Sarkessian took the middle and conversed during our ride.  I took the rear guard and kept a close eye out.  As we approached the mountains I noticed a large winged shape in the air, but could not tell if it was a large bird of prey (such as an eagle) or a roc.  It disappeared behind the peaks soon afterward.

Approximately half way through our journey, Lyssiah spotted something hiding behind a rock while we rode through a mountain pass.  We approached carefully until an ogre appeared.  It struggled to threaten us in crude common.  "Pay... toll.... or die."

We asked the amount of the toll, but the ogre just repeated the threat.  It eventually seemed to consult something shorter in goblin speak.  After a few more attempts to avoid combat and discern the price of the toll, the ogre and his companion (a worg) grew angry.  Sarkessian and the group attempted to intimidate the creature by laughing at it, but to no avail.

The ogre and the worg moved forward.  Sarkessian and Thomys advanced into battle while Lyssiah and I fired from the rear.  I attempted to entangle the creatures, but the worg advanced too quickly and the ogre shrugged off the vines and vegetation that attempted to grab him.  Sarkessian and Thomys attacked the ogre as I prayed for the blessing of the Green Man to aid us.

During the exchange the ogre struck Thomys squarely on the head, knocking him unconscious!  Sarkessian slapped Thomys' horse to get him to move Thomys out of harm's way.  As the horse ran by Lyssiah grabbed its reins and stopped it.  With the power of the Green Man I healed Thomys, and advanced into battle in an attempt to help Sarkessian (since he was alone in melee with the enemy).

I stabbed the Wildblade into the worg and drew blood.  The worg growled in response and leapt at me, biting my arm and knocking me to the ground.  Before I could stand back up the ogre brought his large club into the air and struck me with a powerful swing.

I don't remember much of what happened subsequently. All I recall is hearing Lyssiah and Thomys shout.  I will ask them in the morning what was wrong and what happened afterward.

May the spirit of the Fey guide you,

Jonric

The darkness grow thicker, and I have yet to find my paper and ink.  I feel so tired, perhaps I will sleep now and write tomorrow.  Yes, sleep first...

Session 6

Swordsday, the 24th of Tradewinds, 1001 YA

Much has happened since my last letter.  An ogre and worg slayed me on the road to Skyreach, but my friends successfully petitioned the priests of the Hand of Mercy at Sanctuary to raise me.  I felt a bit uncomfortable being returned to life by priests of another religion, but we are both fighting a potential uprising of the unnatural undead so I feel I can accept the much needed help.  I did not see the Green Man during my time of death, but I reason that is because I have much to do on the plane prime before moving on to the Wild One's home.

My companions spent several days training and practicing while I recovered from my ordeal.  Qal arrived from Badherra at the inn on the third day as we ate our dinner.  He had braved the pass to Skyreach with a hired escort, the half-elf warrior Arwyn, to deliver a warning: a ghostly pirate ship had been spotted in the harbor connected to the back pass to Skyreach.  We immediately suspected involvement by the Cult of the Dark Prophecy.  Our suspicions were further strengthened by the unearthly fog resembling the initial attack in Serova that rolled into town at the same time

We split up and prepared for battle: Lyssiah and Thomys warned the townspeople and prepared the town of Skyreach while Sarkessian, Qal, and I took the trail to the Sanctuary and warned the Brother Cassius and the other priests.  Brother Cassius assumed they were after information present in the Sanctuary's library.

We took defensive positions along with the priests, monks, and guards of the Sanctuary.  Brother Cassius joined Qal and I at the front door, and Sarkessian guarded the rear entrance with Sister Farrah.  We could only see about seven arm's lengths ahead of ourselves through the thick fog.

The first wave consisted of many skeletons, many of which Brother Cassius and I turned.  Close behind followed the Guardian of the Black Gauntlet mercenary company and their commander, Abraxes the Axe, Keeper Mordiggian from the tavern conflict in Badherra, and an undead version of the worg from our last battle!

Most of the temple guards and monks perished quickly at the hand of the Black Gauntlet.  I entangled most of the front attackers, after which Brother Cassius and Keeper Mordiggian traded spell attacks.  Qal knocked several of the Black Gauntlet unconscious while a spray of color emanating from his hands.

I fired arrows at several of the enemy, and wounded them whenever the arrows penetrated their armor.  Thomys arrived soon and moved forward to our position while avoiding my entangling vines.  Brother Cassius held Abraxes, then Thomys moved in and finished him.  The undead worg fell to my arrows.  Keeper Mordiggian also fell during the battle, as did many of the Black Gauntlet.

During this time, Sarkessian and Sister Farrah held the rear door against several of the Black Gauntlet and some undead.  Sister Farrah fell injured by their blades, and Sarkessian was wounded greatly as he attempted to rescue the Sister and retreat inside.  Qal, with his magical armor and shield protecting him, moved to the rear door and blocked the enemy while Sarkessian crawled inside and received healing from Brother Cassius.

After their leaders fell in the front of the Sanctuary, the remaining attackers retreated.  Qal and Sarkessian followed the four retreating mercenaries from the back door.  Sword blows were exchanged, but the well-trained mercenaries landed a lucky blow and took Sarkesian down!  Qal's screams of anger brought Thomys and Lyssiah to his aid to finish off the mercenaries while I guarded the front door.  Afterward they pulled Sarkessian's lifeless body inside the temple.

I soon heard the rattle of bones outside the front door.  I yelled to my companions in back that undead were approaching the front.  Qal, Lyssiah, and I took defensive positions up front while Thomys secured Sarkessian's body in a back room.  An evil female voice bid us to retreat and leave the library or face the consequences.  Soon hooves beat at the front door and it burst into a shower of splinters.

An undead horse carrying a four-armed death knight rode into the Sanctuary.  The death knight swung its blades at Qal, penetrating his magical protections and wounding him and Brother Cassius (who had linked himself to Qal).  Her mount breathed a cloud of gas at Lyssiah and Brother Cassius, but it had no immediate effect.

Brother Cassius realized we were greatly overpowered and yelled retreat.  We ran to the rear door, only to be frightened by the death knight's magical fear.  Thomys grabbed Sarkessian's head and set the library afire before retreating in an attempt to prevent the information about the artifacts falling into the Cult's hands.  As we ran the Sanctuary burned.

After the magical fear subsided several hours later, Qal rushed back to the temple grounds to investigate.  The Sanctuary was an empty, burned out stone shell, and no attackers remained.  We returned to Skyreach and find the town had been spared.  We rested at Jaklandra Littlefoot's inn to recover from the battle.  I attempted to wash away the foul scent of the unnatural undead from my belongings but succeeded only partially.

Lyssiah and Thomas told us they had overheard the leaders of the attack in discussion before the attack as they moved through the woods up the pass to the Sanctuary.  The death knight was none other than evil knight Tamara!  The necromancer Qualianna (who lead the attack in Serova) had followed us to the Sanctuary.  Keeper Mordiggian from the tavern brawl apparently had a grudge against me.  They were all working with Dark Lord Arcanus, leader of the Cult of the Dark Prophecy, to return Surgotha to this world!

I believe we plan to escort Brother Cassius back to Badherra to bring news of the attack and fall of the Sanctuary.  Once we arrive, our highest priority is Sarkessian's resurrection, either by the Hand of Mercy in exchange for our services, by others paid by his noble father, and if those fail to seek out fellow followers of the Green Man nearby.  We are gathering shortly to discuss our plans.

I will send more news once we arrive in Badherra.

Jonric

Session 7

Restday, the 7th of Goldensun, 1001 YA

Blessing of the Green Man to you.  Where did I leave off?  Ah, yes, after the battle at Sanctuary.

Ignoring the stench of the foul undead, we scoured the battlefield for anything useful.  Afterward we loaded Sarkessian's body into a spare cart and left Skyreach to escort Brother Cassius to Badherra.  We heard the familiar horn calls on the way, but Lyssiah was able to push her cart laden mount, allowing us to avoid an encounter with the assumed bandits.

We arrived in Badherra later that day and accompanied Brother Cassius to his temple.  After hearing our story we were greeted with great enthusiasm, almost as heroes.  Mercy's priests prepared for Sarkessian's resurrection on the morn.

During services the next day Sarkessian was resurrected by Mother Ingrid. As he arose, his palms glowed with a rainbow colored mark of his god, and he spoke of meeting the Hand of Mercy in the afterlife.  The priests spoke of a prophecy in which one with such a mark, known as the Storm of Mercy, would bring mercy to those lacking compassion.  Sarkessian seemed filled with a new purpose.

Afterward Cassius and Ingrid asked us to investigate the Keep of Surgotha to verify that the lich queen is still imprisoned.  According to the Journal of Celebrus, we would have to travel east to the Mountain of the Phoenix then south to the Valley of Shades to the Keep.  The undead queen and her unnatural minions could not be allowed to plague the Bloodwind Isles once again so we agreed to the task, but said we must take care of several items of business first beforehand.

I meditated and trained at the Green Man's shrine in Badherra.  The priest and I spoke of Surgotha and Tamara, and I also told of the Wildblade and asked of any nearby intersections of fey lines I could use to awaken my ancestral blade.  He directed me to investigate a stone circle between Serova and Fiori which might provide the energies needed.

Unbeknownst to us, Sarkessian hired a troop of mercenaries to aid us in our passage through the mountains.  Thomys was quite upset that Sarkessian did not discussing it with the group first, and that he would loose a portion of the treasure.

The next day, Lyssiah, Thomys, Qal, and I rode straight to Serova while Sarkessian marched his troop to Valenze then to Serova.  Thomys visited with Sarkessian's family.  Sarkessian would arrive later due to traveling on foot with his troop.

Lyssiah and I left Serova and searched for the circle.  She spotted a marked trail north after we searched the forest for several hours.  We followed the trail until nightfall and made camp.

I heard wolves howling in the distance, so I attempted to attract one to our camp. A friendly wolf approached, and after several hours of reassurance became my friend.  I named my new companion Malachite, after the green mineral that resembled the color of her eyes.

Soon we noticed a small creature peeking over some nearby bushes, partially in fear, part in interest.  We reassured the small fey, who then introduced herself as She Who Flitters by the Silver Moon, or Flitterby for short.  Lyssiah translated our conversation.  Apparently Malachite was Flitterby's friend and she was quite upset.  Lyssiah explained that Malachite was now my special friend, and Flitterby was satisfied with the situation after I promised I would take good care of Malachite.  Flitterby told us of the stone circle and Silverymoon, the unicorn that protects the circle and this forest.  Flitterby offered to lead us to Silverymoon in the morning, so we slept for the night.

Flitterby escorted us Silverymoon in the morning.  After verifying that I was truly a follower of the Green Man, the unicorn told me the location of the stone circle nearby.  She gave me permission to use the circle in exchange for helping protect the forest from a group of Dark Souls, a tribe of creatures mutated to evil by the Blood Monsoons and a blight upon the Gray Hills.  We agreed to help.

Lyssiah left and rode to Serova to get Qal, Thomys, and Sarkessian to help us defeat the blooded beasts.  I meditated and prayed at the stone circle, attempting to awaken the latent powers of the Wildblade.

As I write this letter I have almost completed my meditation and prayer upon father's blade.  With the Green Man's favor I may soon have a magical weapon to help us in our task.  Lyssiah and the others should be leaving Serova soon, after which we will meet in a glade south of here and head off to deal with the Dark Souls.  I will write with news of our encounter soon.

Jonric

Session 8

Workday, the 9th of Goldensun, 1001 YA

The Wildblade has been awakened!  After several days of meditation at the Stone Circle, intricate etchings of vines appeared upon the blade and glowed green.  I could feel the magical energy of Father's sword just by holding it, but whenever the blade left my hand the glow of magic faded yet returned when I held it again.  Silverymoon informed me that each intersection of fey lines could only be used once to awaken further powers of the ancient sword.

Lyssiah and Thomas arrived soon afterward with news of the others' arrival.  Thomas told me that Sarkessian had been made a noble and given his father's ship in exchange for forswearing any rights to rule House Erekose.  I felt great pride for my friend.

Silverymoon then summoned the bear Raltaka, who led us back to the others.  Qal had come to help, and Sarkessian had brought his whole troop!  We followed Raltaka until nightfall, when we made camp and turned in for the night.

Qal wanted to see a fairy in person, so when we camped Lyssiah convinced Flitterby to become visible for Qal.  Unfortunately he broke out laughing at the sight of the fairy, who disappeared and flew away screaming in embarrassment.  Lyssiah and Thomys tried to get Qal to apologize to Flitterby, which he did but without conviction.

In return the fey tormented Qal all night and kept him awake, but he kept the rest of us awake on purpose with his yells and complaints since he was not able to sleep.  Qal cursed the fey and swung his weapon at the invisible fairies several times.  At first I was irritated with his behavior, then I was somewhat worried he might harm the fey.  Eventually I just felt amusement at the situation, since the fun loving fairies would have relented but for Qal's humorless response.

The next day we followed Raltaka through the forest and hills until reaching a glade.  Two rotting dear corpses laid in the open, dismembered and bloated with decay.  Raltaka left us as Lyssiah, Thomys, and I followed odd looking tracks away from the corpses.  We pursued the tracks until nightfall, after which we camped.

We awoke to the scream of the soldier on watch and Lyssiah's yell of warning.  A bloated, monstrous kobold with a stake for an arm was attacking the guard!  Lyssiah and Malachite took the beast down, but not before the guard was gravely injured.  As I healed the soldier and inspected his wound, Qal told us he heard a strange voice further out in the darkness uttering "Lifestealer?".  After some debate, we decided to sleep for the night instead of pursing the creature due to our exhaustion from the night before.

In the morning we continued our tracking.  Lyssiah and Waar, Thomys' dog, took the lead and soon fell into an pit trap!  I pulled them out of the pit and healed them both.  Qal thought healing Waar was a waste, but he does not understand that any of nature's creatures that are our friends deserve our assistance.

Lyssiah and Waar continued to track the blooded beasts.  Soon we came upon a barricade across the trail, with two blooded kobolds standing guard in preparation for our arrival.  I am exhausted from the day's events and must sleep before writing further.

May nature's blessing always be yours,

Jonric

Session 9

Swordsday, the 10th of Goldensun, 1001 YA

As you know from my last letter, we were still assisting Silverymoon and the fey of the Greyhill Woods by dealing with the unnatural, mutated, defiling blooded kobolds created during the magical storms.

Lyssiah tracked the blooded kobolds until we ran across their obstruction in the path.  As devious as normal kobolds, the creatures had build a spiked barricade across the road and placed archers behind it.  We made a quick plan to flank the kobolds by splitting into groups and proceeding through the woods.

Thomys and Waar were the first ones to advance by taking the right side of the path, but were caught by the traps laid by the beasts.  They worked their way through the traps, only to be assaulted by a group of the unnatural creatures.  The kobolds used their mutated abilities to scream, which scared away Waar and did sonic damage to Thomys.

Malachite and I followed Thomys along the right side of path.  Lyssiah took the left side of the path.  Sarkessian ordered half his troop to aid Thomys, and half to follow him along Lyssiah's route.  Qal stayed in the rear with several guards and fired spells at the embattled kobolds.

After fighting off traps and many of the blooded kobolds, Sarkessian made it up to the barricade only to fall into a large pit trap.  I unwisely attempted to jump the pit but fell in, barely missing Sarkessian in the bottom. Lyssiah almost fell into another pit, but deftly moved aside as the opening collapsed inward.

Sarkessian and I managed to climb out of the pit as we all surrounded the lone kobold behind the barricade.  Several kobolds retreated fast as we finished off the ones that remained.  Afterward we healed and prepared to move on.

Lyssiah, along with a little help from Thomys and I, tracked the kobolds to a cave on the side of the mountain.  After avoiding trapped vines, Thomys and Sarkessian climbed to the entrance, followed by Lyssiah and I.  We cautiously inspected the cave, and found one set of tracks leading into a pit and other into a passage.  I dropped oil down the pit and watched much yellow mold burn.

We followed the tracks of one of the kobolds down a long, sloping passage that was decorated with crude runes carved into obviously worked cave walls.  Lyssiah was able to read the writing, which was Orcish in nature.  It spoke of Oroch, a "great king and lord of all orcs" and "conqueror of new lands."  Lyssiah was obviously upset since these "new lands" may have been Erestia.  The rough pictures on the walls also showed sacrifices upon an alter and summoning of a multi-armed daemon.

Eventually the passageway opened up into a large room.  Between several pillars was placed a large stone table and a large stone chair, a body upon each of them.  As we approached, the fungi upon the bodies animated and attacked us with their long tentacles!  We attempted to hold our own, but the plant's poison combined with their many arms was too great of a threat.

As the others retreated I tried invoking the power of the Green Man to force away the plans, finally succeeding the second time.  The fungi creatures cowered in the corner of the room as the party finished them off.

We then inspected our wounds, worrying about the further effects of the fungi's poisons.  I will write futher of the caves in my next letter.

May the blessing of the Green Man watch over you,

Jonric

Session 10

Helmsday, the 12th of Goldensun, 1001 YA

Friendship of the fey to you.  As expected, I will continue describing my task for the unicorn Silverymoon to help protect the Greyhill Woods and the fey contained therein.  As you most likely remember, I left off after the battle with the fungi and our concern for the effects of its poison.

Suddenly Sarkessian and I fell ill, greatly weakened by the fungal poison infesting our wounds from the violet tentacles.  Lyssiah was also affected by the life draining poison but not to a large degree.  Lyssiah and Thomys helped Sarkessian and I, both of us in a greatly weakened state, down from the cave entrance to the ground below, where Qal, Malachite, and Sarkessian's troops were waiting.

After some discussion, Lyssiah, Sarkessian, and I headed back to the Stone Circle to ask if Silverymoon could heal us enough to continue our quest, while Qal, Thomys, and Magella guarded the cave entrance to make sure the blooded beasts did not escape.

We arrived at the Stone Circle late in the day.  After hearing our story, Silverymoon told us she could neutralize poison but not cure the effects of poison that have already taken effect.  We continued discussing our ideas with Silverymoon, during which time she reminded me of the Stone Circle's power and asked if I could use the power to cast the spell myself.  I meditated for a bit and realized I could use the lesser restorative power while among the stones, so I rested for the night and prayed for the needed spells upon the morn.

I cast several spells (including the spell of  lesser restoration) upon Sarkessian which allowed him to avoid the effects of and recuperate from the earlier soul draining wound caused by the mutated kobold.  I then cast the lesser restorative spell upon myself since my health was quite drained.  I was worried about Lyssiah's injuries, but knew that I would be of no use healing her if I did not recover enough myself.

Sarkessian and his two men then rode back to Serova for antitoxin, healing potions, and other supplies, while Lyssiah and I rested further at the Stone Circle so I could restore lost energy to both of us the next day.  We planned to meet at the cave entrance in a day or two to complete our task for Silverymoon by protecting the forest and the fey from the mutated monsters.

After the restoring, Lyssiah and I returned to the cave entrance with great haste and the horses in tow.  While we were gone Qal had (against Thomys' and Magella's advice) ordered the troops into the cave for further exploration during which several men were poisoned by yellow mold and frozen by a brown pudding, afterward retreating back outside.  I healed the two troops, returning one of them to consciousness.  I highly doubt Sarkessian will leave Qal in charge of his troops again.

We rested for the rest of the day while waiting for Sarkessian to arrive.  During this time, Lyssiah and I explored the area near our camp and ventured back into the cave for some quick exploration.  We discovered the remaining passage from the main room was a dead end, but that bottom passage past the tomb led to a deep chasm (as Qal said the blooded kobold had talked about during one of their attempts to escape the cave).

Lyssiah noticed tracks of one kobold climbing down the chasm while another walked right off (we quickly suspected magic).  I magically lit a rock and dropped it down the chasm, allowing Lyssiah to see another pair openings lower on each side of the chasm.  After the rock fell several hundred feet, I heard it splash into water followed by a great splash of a creature jumping out of the water and back in!

We returned to the group and discussed our options while we trained with each other in our new abilities.  We have not finalized our plan yet, but currently we are considering using magic to follow the kobolds across the chasm.

Jonric

Session 11

Godsday, the 15th of Goldensun, 1001 YA

Greeting from Arrendra my friend.  I have fulfilled my current duty to the creatures of the Greyhill Woods and Silverymoon with the help of Lyssiah and our friends, thus protecting the forest and the fey from the mutated kobolds of the unnaturally magical Blood Monsoons.

Last letter I left off after we rested and trained before reentering the caverns.  After completing our training, we followed the cavern passages back to the chasm.  We left Malachite, Sarkessian's troops, and Waar outside the cave while the group and Magella entered the caves.

We knew not which passage the blooded kobolds took for certain (and knew that the passages could be a trap), so we decided to try the far upper passage first.  Qal cast his newly learned spell of levitation upon me for safety since the chasm was very deep and falling would certainly lead to death.  After securing me with rope Sarkessian and Thomys threw me across the chasm.

Once I was across, I secured the rope with spikes so the others could use it to cross.  As I finished, I heard slithering and hissing in the darkness of the passage.  As I warned the others, an unnatural creature with the body of a snake, the head of a parrot, and tentacles attacked me!  Qal identified the creature as a grick.  I defended myself, but the grick's multiple tentacles and sharp beak slipped through my defenses.  Thomys and Sarkessian quickly made their way across the chasm to help me.

Lyssiah also attempted to cross the chasm, but slipped from the rope and fell!  Luckily Qal's quick thinking saved her, since he was able to cast levitate upon her before she fell too far.  At the same time, Thomys ended the grick's threat with a swipe of his magical spiked shield.

Using levitation we investigated the other passages and found the kobolds has taken the lower near passage.  After Thomys disarmed some traps, we proceeded and discovered the kobolds barricaded in a small room.  Sarkessian and Qal attempted to negotiate, but once the kobolds admitted to killing the forest creatures and fey for pleasure we decided to attack.  With a combination of spells and swords we quickly ended the supernatural kobolds' threat to the forest and it's inhabitants.

We climbed back out of the chasm and decided to leave the caverns and resume our quest to inspect Surgotha's tomb immediately rather than search the rest of the passages.  Sarkessian repeatedly stated that he did not wish to spelunk within more caverns anytime soon and I can not disagree with him, especially after Lyssiah's close call.

The group returned to the clearing after reuniting with Raltaka during which time Qal sang a song for the fairies, greatly improving his relationship with the fey.  Lyssiah and I proceeded to the Stone Circle and notified Silverymoon of the success of our task, and after exchanging thanks we said our good-byes and returned to the group.

I recently completed meditating and praying to the Green Man to increase Malachite's defenses and abilities so she can safely accompany me upon our dangerous quest.  Simultaneously Qal  finished identifying the magic ring, and discovered it capable of repeatedly charging the hands with electricity for shocking attacks.

We plan to return to a nearby town for supplies then set out upon our next quest against the foul undead.  Before leaving this area, I must also ask Flitterby to give Silverymoon my gratitude and to send word if she needs my assistance again.

May nature's bounty provide for you,

Jonric

Session 12

Session 13

Session 14

Spellsday, the 4th of Clearskies, 1001 YA

Much has occurred since my last letter.  I apologize for not writing earlier, but we have been quite busy recently.  We helped free a Pervashan woman from slavery and defeated a tribe of Rezerbeck to return a sacred Chunkra (known to us as Rothe) mask to a friendly Romm tribe.

Both Malachite and I were greatly injured in the fight with the Rezerbeck, and Warr (Thomy's war hound), several horses, and many of Sarkessian's troop died in the battle, but we succeeded in recovering the Horn of Chunkra and befriending the Romm tribe of this region.

Today we reached the Valley of Shades, the last segment of our journey before proceeding to Surgotha's former stronghold.  The Valley is filled with bones of the dead and radiates unnatural necromantic magic.  I fear the Green Man's power and my training against the undead will be used very soon.

Although it is not directly related to my recent quests, since gaining the ability to speak with animals from the Wild One I have been exploring the relationship between intelligent beings and nature.  My first experience was talking with Inconstance, the magically intelligent toad familiar of Qal.  Although I was slightly uncomfortable with the solid master/follower roles between Qal and Inconstance, Inconstance seemed quite satisfied and happy with the relationship which is what truly counts.

My second experience was speaking with the leader of the Chunkra heard, a wized old one whose name I forgot to ask.  He was quite intelligent for a Chunkra, and said the Chunkra appreciate their relationship with the Enok tribe of the Romm.  The Enok follow the Chunkra herds, hold them as sacred, and protect them, in exchange for gaining much of their sustenance from the Chunkra.  The herd leader even knew of the Green Man, recognized my symbol, and referred to the Wild One as father!  The natural wonders never cease to amaze me.

Third, I recently spoke with a raven outside the valley.  He was saddened because his human companion was recently killed in some necromantic ritual inside the Valley of Shades.  This does not bode well for our travels inside the Valley.

We plan on preparing spells tomorrow then entering the Valley of Shades to investigate Surgotha's former stronghold.  We want to discover if she is still imprisoned there, or if the caravan led by the undead Tamara that Lyssiah spotted had already recovered Surgotha's prison.

May the music of the prairie grasses ease your slumber,

Jonric

Session 15

Spellsday, the 4th of Clearskies, 1001 YA

The undead are truly foul and unnatural creatures, undeserving to walk upon the living earth of the Green Man.  Today we faced many of the reanimated monsters, including small skeletal wyvern-like bonewings, strength-sucking shadows, life-draining wraiths, and immolated burned ones.  I did my best to banish them from this land, and with the help of my friends we mostly succeeded.

We passed though the Valley of Shades and snuck by (but not without injury) with invisibility to undead the wyvern-like bonewings perched upon their guard pedestals.  We proceeded to Surgotha's fortress and  investigated her former home but did not find Surgotha's prison, only shadows and wraiths that attempted to drain our strength and life before we dispatched them.

Qal then remembered that Surgotha was trapped in a nearby cave, so we searched the area and proceeded on a path up the valley wall towards the cave.  On that barren trail we faced two burned ones, which we could only harm with magic.  We eventually destroyed them and are now recovering from the pitched battle.  Afterward we will investigate the cave and search for Surgotha's prison (or lack thereof).

My companions all fought bravely today.  Sarkessian tackled a burned one and pushed it and himself over a cliff.  Malachite and Sarkessian occupied a burned one while the others fought it's companion.  Qal, whose magic wands were the only weapon we still possessed that could damage the fire-handed creatures, continued to blast them even as one gashed open his chest .  Thomys risked life and limb attempting to protect Qal before and after he had fallen.  Lyssiah and Magella both fought well also, risking themselves to occupy the burned ones and pour a potion of healing down fallen Qal's throat.

I used all of my spells and turnings up before and during our battle against the burned ones, so we relied on Qal and his magic wands to destroy the burned ones.  I protected my friends as best I could with only minor spells remaining.  When we return to town I must remember to purchase scrolls of healing to help my friends after I have used my spells for the day, and holy water to use against undead when all else fails.

May the bright sun blast the undead to ash,

Jonric

Session 16

Portsday, the 13th of Clearskies, 1001 YA

"What troubles you my friend?" I barked in my best magically endowed wolf talk.

Malachite grumbled, "Frustrated.  Could not protect our pack from burned two-leggers.  Bite did nothing."

Ah, she was upset because attacks of insufficient magical strength could not harm the Burned Ones outside of Surgotha's cave.  I retorted, "My attacks were ineffective as well, only Qal's magic injured the foul undead.  You are stronger now since we performed the ritual of enhancement before leaving the Enok."  Her head drooped in a sullen manner, which made it obvious that she was still disturbed.

"I have heard of magic that can imbue your bite with magical energy.  When we arrive in Badherra I will ask my fellow brother at our shrine of it and will consult any local druids I can find.  Perhaps we can have a magic item fashioned for you?"

Malachite's head raised quickly as her ears perked up.  "Magic sparkly?!"

"Yes, a magic sparkly!" I chuckled as I scratched behind her ears, noticing her mood visibly improved.  She resumed eating her dinner.

Tarig was apparently attracted by my conversation with Malachite.  "I see the Wild One has given you magical gifts for dealing with nature and speaking to your companion.  I had to teach Gendra the common tongue myself, although she did have a natural talent for it."

"Another sign that your faith in the Green Man is strong,"  I spoke as I smiled.  "Malachite was upset she could not defend us from the burned undead.  I told her I would ask in Badherra of magic that would imbue her bite with magic.  Alas, even if her bite can be so imbued I will not be able to physically harm powerful undead myself.  I know of no more specific ley intersections to use to further awaken my father's blade."

"You seek ley lines?  Why didn't you say so earlier!  I seek such places to meditate and seek visions, and thus know of several.  Here, I will draw a quick map and write directions for you."  Tarig began drawing maps and writing directions on my parchment.

As Tarig wrote I thanked him.  "We were lucky to encounter you Tarig, you have aided us several times since our meeting."

"No thanks necessary, especially since the group rescued Gendra and me from Surgotha's cave.  You seem to be part of a good group, I am grateful to be traveling with your and your friends."

"Yes, as am I.  Although Qal may whine, or Sarkessian act too quickly, or others think first of themselves, they are all loyal to each other when it truly counts.  In the heat of battle or other dangerous circumstances, they have helped and protected each other as much as possible."

"I am also grateful in another way that may help in my service to the Wild One.  I think Sarkessian may gain much authority in Arrendra one day.  I have been trying to convince him to add living in balance with and respect of nature to his philosophy so that it may someday become part of the law of the land."

Sarkessian returned to the campsite with an arm full of dead wood for the fire.  "Did I hear you speaking about me Jonric?  I can't even leave for a few minutes without conversation behind my back!"  Sarkessian chuckled loudly and slapped me on the back.

Thomys approached and sat beside us.  We ate our evening meal and talked around the campfire as the sunlight faded from the sky.  After everyone settled down I created a small magical light and wrote my letter to Kelivar.

Kelivar,

A short letter this time since I am tired from riding.

We entered Surgotha's cave and discovered her missing.  Chained to the wall was a Romm sorcerer named Tarig Varistock, a fellow worshipper of the Green Man who was sent on a separate mission to eliminate the undead from this area.  He had been taken prisoner and was to be animated as an undead servant upon his death, but we rescued him before his raven ran out of food to feed him.

He told us that Tamara had captured him and left him chained to the wall after removing a huge crystal in the cave.  The crystal contained a four armed humanoid, which must be Surgotha.  Her followers have recovered her prison, as expected.

Along with Tarig, we returned to the Enok tribe while avoiding the local dragon and more Rezurbek.  We rested and trained for a few days, during which time I performed the ritual on enhancement upon Malachite.

We are now temporarily splitting up.  Qal, Magella, Marbeau, and Henri are heading to Serova to prepare Sarkessian's ship.  Sarkessian, Thomys, Tarig, and I are heading to Badherra to inform Mother Ingrid and to purchase supplies.  Afterward we will head to Serova to meet the others.

Until our next meeting,

Jonric

Session 17

Session 18

Session 19

My friend Sarkessian is dead. He accepted a challenge from Sharn Corbeth of House Corbeth, an Arrendran noble house which House Erekose has frequently conflicted with. The duel, to the death by Sarkessian's own choice, was very close in the end. Each combatant was down to their last, the final strike of the rapier determining the victor. Yet Sharn's blade stuck true first, piercing Sarkessian's chest as he fell to the ground of the Corbeth courtyard.

My first thought is that a duel to the death is a foolish waste of life, a social custom born of unnatural beliefs of "civilized" peoples. However, further reflection and prayer to the Green Man bought about two other thoughts.

First, conflicts between potential leaders of animal groups frequently lead to duel like confrontations. They rarely lead to death however, usually just resulting in the submission or exile of the defeated. The stronger of the combatants gains position, while the weaker one does not.

Second, a duel between two people is better than a war between two houses. It is a less costly way to settle differences than a larger conflict. A duel is much less destructive to nature than a human war, whose marching armies decimate the landscape.

Neither of these ideas change the fact that my friend Sarkessian is dead. The priests of his church plan to speak with his spirit and ask if he wishes to be raised, but I fear his answer will be no. I believe he chose a duel to the death for a reason.

Jonric

Session 20

Godsday, the 1st of Bloodsails, 1001 YA

"A tree that is cut down for use to build a canoe is acceptable, as long as only a small portion of the trees are sacrificed thus so, respect is paid to the tree, and the use of the tree is consequential."  Jonric's eyes scanned the last few miles of tree line that remained before the majestic timbers yielded to the mountainous terrain.  "Building a canoe to carry one across the water is a substantial act and potentially worthy of the tree's stature."

Tarig's shoulder's drooped as he listened to the sermon.  "Yes, Jonric."

"However, using a living tree as target practice for a new spell is an inconsequential end for the tree.  Such a death is unworthy of the tree's noble stature and should be avoided at all costs."

The dejected look on Tarig's face grew more solemn.  "I understand, Jonric."

Jonric continued.  "Thus it is so for all life above, upon, and below the living earth.  The eagle in the sky, the chunkra upon the plain, and the mole underground are all important to the cycle of life.  As are the mosses, grasses, forbs, shrubs, and trees upon the earth."

"We should not waste the gifts and natural beauty given to us by the Green Man, especially in inconsequential ways.  We should only take what we need from nature, and respect the balance when we do so."

Tarig sighed in remorse.  "I'm really sorry about that tree, Jonric."

"I'm sorry if I repeat this, but I feel it is my duty to help a devout follower of the Green Man understand the balance we must maintain with the rest of nature.  We are a part of nature, but due to our intelligence we also have great power in our dealings with nature.  We must ever be mindful of the balance."

Tarig smiled in an attempt to reassure his friend.  "Do not worry my friend, I agree. I was excited about my new spell and wanted to show Qal.  I did not consider the result of my action fully until it was too late."

Qal yelled back from his horse riding ahead.  "Don't be so hard on him Jonric, he was just excited about a new spell!  I know how that feels!"

"I can empathize, Qal.  Although my magic is divine in nature, I also feel excitement when the Green Man bestows another gift upon me.  But I think we all now understand the importance of respecting nature and maintaining the balance, so I'll be quiet now so we can enjoy the ride."

Thomys slowed his mount as he added to the conversation.  "I doubt we will truly enjoy this ride for Dain says we are in ogre territory, then awaiting us at the end of the trail is a mercenary sworn to my death.  Then I must return to Serova for my duel with Sharne."

Jonric silently agreed with Thomys as he continued riding.  For some reason the conversation reminded him of similar discussions with Kelivar, his mother, and others back in Naeben.  Perhaps we can visit Naeben during our upcoming sea voyage he pondered.  But such pleasant thoughts were banished by a reminder of hard decisions left to be made.

No matter, Jonric's faith and recent events made his choice easier for him: he must stay with his Arrendran friends rather than leave with Lyssiah, for his friends needed his guidance with the ways of nature whereas Lyssiah did not.  Perhaps he could delay their parting longer, he thought, by convincing his friends to accompany Lyssiah on her quest to find Farlen Nightblade.  The Halls of the Barrowking should contain more treasure than just the remains of the warlord Dranethmyr and his weapons Orcsbane and Trollclaw, and that should interest his friends.

Session 21

Kelivar,

Blessing of the Green Man to you.

We have been busy as of late.  I am presently on a ship returning to Badherra from the city of Arrendra.  We traveled to the Romm tribe of the Sul-vak near Arrendra to return the body of Sarkessian's cousin, Dain Sandor, to his adopted Romm tribe.  His god's blessings must be upon him, for they resurrected Dain and he travels with us once again.

Before we left, Lyssiah had received directions from her superiors and had left to search for Farlen.  I wished I could accompany her, but my current companions are in much greater need of guidance in the ways of nature and the Green Man.  My friends wish to pursue treasure on Thunder Beast Island rather than search for Farlen, so I walk a separate path than Lyssiah.

I checked for word of her mission in the town of Fiori, near the Halls of the Barrowking where she is searching for Farlen.  Townspeople had seen her with several able bodied mercenaries, so she should be fine.  How strange that Lyssiah was sent to protect me here in Arrendra, yet now it is I that who worries about her.  I hope her mission for her superiors goes well.  As soon as we return to Arrendra from the island I will seek word of her success.  If something is wrong I will attempt to find her, most likely with the help of our shared friends.

However, I must admit that I am looking forward to discovering if there is a "thunder beast" that inhabits Thunder Beast Island.  I image that such a creature's footfalls would shake the very earth it walks upon.  The creature could be fascinating, but also quite dangerous.

My travels and the accompanying experiences have raised my skills in things martial and divine.  The Green Man has also blessed me once again, providing me with another set of more powerful spells.  One such spell will allow me to imbue my animal friends with some of the abilities of the divine creatures favored by the Green Man in exchange for a small part of my essence.

I may so imbue Malachite, but I am uncertain of the action: Our adversaries are quickly becoming more powerful, possibly putting her at too great of risk.  Although it saddens me to do so I may soon have to return Malachite to the Grey Hill woods and seek a stronger animal companion.

We are on our way to attend my friend Thomys' duel with the noble who killed Sakessian in his duel.  I will write you soon as to the outcome.

Jonric

Session 23

Godsday, the 15th of Bloodsails, 1001 YA

Kelivar,

Session 24

Swordsday, the 17th of Bloodsails, 1001 YA

Session 25

Session 26

Workday, the 2nd of Warsend, 1001 YA

Session 27

Helmsday, the 5th of Warsend, 1001 YA

Session 28

Entry 29

Entry 30

Helmsday, the 5th of Waterfall, 1001 YA

Entry 31

Conspiracy upon the Green Isle

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Entry 33

• Please help Jasper go where he wants and do what he would like.  If my belongings survive the battle, allow him to take whatever he wants.
• If she desires it, take Jade where she wants to go.  I don't believe Jade could use any of my belongings, but help her if she wishes it.
• Distribute the rest of my belongings if they are recovered.  Give the Wildblade to one who would use it best for nature and the Green Man.  Salene and my friends may have the rest.
  
• Provide assistance to Soleil, a follower of Warlord Stelios, in restoring an area that may be damaged during the battle.
• If we were only able to imprison Surgotha, help find a way to destroy her.
• Destroy my body if it is animated as an undead.
• If anyone asks what I wanted to do next, tell them I wished to protect Naeben, to convince those of the other nations to respect and preserve nature, and to move against the remaining unnatural or undead threats to the natural world from Valthos, any remaining forces of Surgotha, and any demonic forces.
  

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Entry 36

1. A small group, including my friends Laurel, Nimerea, Jasper, Jade, and myself and anyone else supporting the cause, travel to Alaster before the Monsoon and begin restoration of an area to show that a greater effort could succeed.
2. Ask any interested organizations (examples could include Naeben, druid circles, churches of the Green Man, Great Mother, and the Celestial Monarch) to group together and send a small contingent to protect our claim to the island.
3. Laurel, Jonric, and other interested friends of our cause research the unnatural presence detected below the island.  Determine if it is a threat, and if so do something about it.
4. Restore the island:
1. Clerics can destroy the remaining negative energy plants.
2. Druids and nature clerics can restore the flora through plant growth.
3. Other can build structures, shrines, and infrastructure for inhabitants (for example, the Church of the Celestial Monarch is likely interested in their former Spire).
4. After restoring the flora, we bring native fauna back to island to complete the major part of the restoration.
5. Since the fey may not return for a long time, all intelligent inhabitants of island can elect a council of nine to govern, and council elect a governor.  A very close alliance with Naeben seems likely.

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