Bertrand's Report on the Bitter Plains

The Bitter Plains are a dreadful locale. It's full of freezing temperatures, deadly mists, undead abominations, and unfriendly wildlife. You'll find that travel through this land will take twice as long and you should always watch where you step -- one misstep can land you face first in a puddle of icy water. With the cold temperatures, water is a death sentence; no amount of fur or heavy clothing will keep you warm if you get wet. Though it may take longer, I highly recommend travel from atop a horse or within a wagon or cart when possible as this minimizes risk of injuries or casualties.   In terms of weather, rain is not uncommon though snow is more likely in this season. The real problem is the mist. The mist seems almost alive; it saps your strength, it freezes your clothes, it obscures the ground and underbrush, and we've had reports of it raising the dead en-masse. Whenever the mist seems a bit off, remain on guard and remain in a cart or tent -- sometimes it may be wise simply to remain in tents until it passes, even if it costs us time.   The wildlife is usually aggressive. Oozes, drakes, spiders, and undead. Very little in this land is kind to travelers, and we should remain on guard constantly. If it's any consolation, the drakes in the Plains can't fly, though they do burrow. Though I may prefer they flew, as we had a scout be pulled into a water filled tunnel; we were able to pull him out, though he succumbed to frostbite shortly after. The undead as stated previously can appear from the mists, though they seem to already permeate this land entirely.   I would advise the group remain whole, while any scouting expeditions not stray too far. These are dangerous and deadly lands, especially for those separated from the pack.   May the Light of the Dawnfather always guide you,
Paladin Bertrand Hubbard