Adrian November's Journal
An old, tattered notebook of once exceptional quality. "Property of Adrian November" is stenciled prominently along the front in gold embossing and a rusted padlock seals the book when not in use.
Much of the front of the notebook is filled with arcane scribblings and random musings. The latter half of the book contains a journal primarily recounting the travelings of one Adrian November. Many of the pages are well worn and stained with tears.
Much of the front of the notebook is filled with arcane scribblings and random musings. The latter half of the book contains a journal primarily recounting the travelings of one Adrian November. Many of the pages are well worn and stained with tears.
Adrian November's Journal
4th of Midsomer, 1086
I have found passage aboard the vessel Silverwind headed for the norther continent. Our departure was fortunately timed as it seems a storm has closed off northbound sea travel, though I must give some credit to one Miss Megan Ayara, a self proclaimed hero of the people who aided us in procuring entry into this vessel, despite her kindly demeanor I cannot shake a sense of unease eminating from her, Lucina especially does not seem to take kindly to her presence. Though it seems I am not the only one in desperate need to reach new shores, as we are joined by, what is perhaps the most boisterous Witch Hunter I have had the misfortune of encountering over the course of my travels. She was willing to give her name, one Maevis Faustine, so unless she is partaking in a particularly elaborate ruse she seems unaware of my current predicament. Regardless, I will have to keep a close watch on her and Lucina to avoid any unfortunate incidents.
7th of Midsomer, 1086
The past few days were uneventful, but it seems the storm has seen fit to make this journey more troublesome than anticipated. As part of our arrangement for safe travel I have been pressed into service aboard this vessel like some sort of common serf. While this work would ordinarily be far beneath a person of my status it does provide an opportunity to investigate this ship's crew and my fellow passengers. Perhaps something of value can be learned.
10th of Midsomer, 1086
Curse that nine times damned witch hunter. Her foolish antics have rendered us both bedridden. The pain of this broken limb is nothing compared to the fact that it was caused attempting to save that fool from their own actions. I will rest now, may the morning bring me relief from this pain and Maevis's ineffectual attempts to draw my ire.
22nd of Midsomer, 1086
At last our goal has been reached. This morning we entered the harbor of Northgate. Injuries notwithstanding the journey went better than expected and we have made good time. It appears this town is rife with travelers like ourselves and we have drawn the attention of an unlikely pair, a monk of some description going by Gavin Mahled, and a brutish Monster Slayer calling herself Darcy Surarav. I had hoped to make for Edrigate immediately, however the journey has been more tiring than expected, and with the reprieve granted by the storm a night to rest and prepare for the journey seems prudent.
25th of Midsomer, 1086
At Lucina's behest we spent much of today exploring the sewers beneath the city. The experience was by far the least pleasant I've had in my travels thus far, and despite several hours at the local hot springs I am certain the stench of that place still hangs over my like a rancid specter. Though the trip was not without merit, within the sewer depths we were made aware of a power unlike any I had encountered before. If it could somehow be bent to do our bidding we could achieve a greatness untold since the ancient past. More than that it seems our maladjusted family has gained a new member. Illwit, a young sewer dweller with a name most unbecoming, I've decided on calling her Daisy which she has shown to take kindly to.
26th of Midsomer, 1086
Today I once again encountered the entity I first bore witness to within the sewers. It seems willing to make a deal of sorts, granting knowledge and power in exchange for service. I have elected to accept it's deal, as what it offers will aid me greatly in my goals, yet I must remain vigilant as there is no telling what this creature's ultimate plans are.
27th of Midsomer, 1086
It seems my assessment of the child's willingness to leave her home behind may have been a bit optimistic. As we made our way across the mountain pass she wept for several minutes. My attempts to console her were largely ineffective and I feel that I will have to improve my handling of these situations moving forward. The remainder of the journey passed without major incident and we have stopped over at a small farmstead along the way.
28th of Midsomer, 1086
Though we've arrived in Magtria Vila, sleep does not come easy to me this night. The child in our care nearly passed of illnesses unknown but suspected magical. Will write more in the morning.
29th of Midsomer, 1086
My suspicions proved correct, as Hospitaller Julianne confirmed some sort of magical parasite appears to have attached itself to Daisy. Fortunately the Hospitaller was able to drive the parasite from her body and we are taking Daisy back to our lodgings to recuperate. A local nobleman calling himself the Baron has seen to providing us with greatly improved accommodations and is planning on meeting with us to discuss further dealings involving possibly traitorous elements within this city's nobility. Before we attend Megan, Darcy and Maevis have encountered a couple of ne'er-do-wells causing trouble around the hospital and are going to investigate.
31st of Midsomer, 1086
Lucina is dead. I find myself at a loss, she has been by my side since we set off from Kastar and now she is simply gone. They took us to witness the body and collect her possessions, even then, looking at her laying lifeless upon the slab, I could not quite believe she had truly died, that surely this is just another practical joke and she would be up and about in mere moments. I had not even been given the chance to say my farewells as it appears the leader of those ruffians we encountered possesses power far in excess of what I thought capable, and it is likely we would all be dead were it not for Megan's timely intervention.
A thousand thoughts race through my mind this evening, the Gem in Lucina's possession is unlike anything I have seen before and will need to be studied, as will that strange woman's power. However, our primary goal now is to identify who that woman is so we can formulate a plan to rid ourselves of her. As one of noble birth it is likely she will attempt to retaliate so we must remain vigilant.
32nd of Midsomer, 1086
Whether it is fortune or misfortune I cannot say, but it appears our Monster Slayer associate is related in some way to this Madrius Taloran character we encountered a few days past. With a name other information was quick to follow and we have built up quite a dossier on our adversary. The others are seeking a more violent form of retribution, though I believe we may be able to use what we have learned to force an understanding of sorts. Our conversation with Markus Saitarius has proven more difficult. It seems the man has, by some means, learned of my exile and is attempting to use this fact to solicit my aid in his quest to reshape the world. I can't help but be intrigued by his promises of a better world, though his methods so far seem lacking. It seems there is some sort of rivalry between him and our current benefactor, something to consider for the future.
Daisy has been taken, I can only assume the culprit is Madrius. We depart for the manor with haste, I only pray that our luck holds.
33rd of Midsomer, 1086
Few times in my life have I felt rage of the intensity with which I have experienced it today. In my time back home I interacted with many a callous nobleman, who viewed the lives around them as mere curiosities to be toyed with and discarded as needed, but never have I encountered one that took the same delight in causing misery that the Taloran woman does. If every injury this monster inflicted upon Daisy could be returned hundredfold it would still be but a fraction of the punishment she deserves for her actions. Daisy is sleeping now, the mages were able to ease her pain, but it is likely that her wounds will take years to fully heal, to say nothing of the mental stress that girl has endured.
My only solace is the knowledge that Madrius' death will prevent any further suffering. Though the repercussions of killing a noblewoman will be severe I am sure that with enough time we will be able to clear our name. The leader of the local Witch Hunter order, Argarvus Hornbrak, has even approached us to lead an investigation into Madrius' affairs to determine what other magical taboos she has broken.
1st of Calorvact, 1086
I swear that Maevis will be the death of me yet, the fool activated some manner of blood ritual Madrius had placed within her manor. Through what I can only assume to be dumb luck or a cruel gods punishment upon me our intrepid witch hunter was able to barely escape the mansion, however as we were the ones who killed Madrius on suspicion of witchcraft, we have been tasked with assisting the investigation. A pair of witch hunter acolytes have also joined us on our excursion, Jim and Hannah. The two seem inexperienced but well meaning, though I worry their archaic codes may cause issues.
After some debate we have decided to have Daisy accompany us on our journey. Her experience with Madrius has left her petrified at the thought of being left alone. The decision may be foolish, but at this moment I cannot bear to leave the poor girl behind. Perhaps I am growing soft?
2nd of Calorvact, 1086
We have spent quite some time within this other realm, initially nothing seemed amiss, though upon closer inspection the furnishings within this version of Madrius' home are most macabre. We have encountered several seemingly hostile creatures, though with the aid of the town guard escorting us we have made quick work of most. While we appear to be making progress I cannot help but feel that we are being watched.
3rd of Calorvact, 1086
As we progress further and further into this other realm the environment around us becomes more and more distorted. While our initial excursion took us through what for the most part appeared to be a gory version of Madrius' estate we now find ourselves walking through a resplendent cityscape. Despite it's alluring beauty the corpses we find along the way reveal a hidden danger, we must remain alert. Daisy has handled the experience with surprising maturity, as has Maevis. Darcy and Megan have proven their combat prowess time and again, it seems the creatures of this realm have even come to fear Megan.
??? of Calorvact, 1086
I've lost track of how many days we've spent wandering this hellscape. Time and space appear to stretch and distort the longer we wander. Judging by our remaining rations we must have been in here for weeks, though it feels like only hours have passed. We've taken refuge in another copy of Madrius' mannor, barricading the door and windows to slow the creatures stalking us. Outside the landscape has shifted once more into a series of strange islands. We are planning on leaving the city behind and making our way across the islands come morning.
???
At last we've escaped Madrius' realm, four of the city guard, along with Jim, one of the two Witch Hunter acolytes, perished fending off Madrius' assault. It seems her time spent within the other realm has warped her physically and she now bears a form as monstrous as her personality. Thankfully it seems her power is limited to her own realm so we should be relatively safe for now. Markus has taken us into military custody and has requested a report on the realm, by my observations a great many things have changed in our absence, I am sure the next few days will be very informative.
18th of Midwinter, 1088
It seems our journey through Madrius' realm has shifted us forward in time. While we were only trapped within for a few weeks at most, two years have passed for those outside. I shudder to think what would have become of Daisy had we left her behind.
In our absence Markus has moved to consolidate power with frightening efficiency. He now rules as Regent over a new kingdom and appears to have seized control of much of the northern continent. While he hesitates to admit it openly it seems that war may be brewing with the mainland. We have been tasked with hunting down the remnants of the Witch Hunters who maintain loyalty to the Magtarian Royal Family.
22nd of Midwinter, 1088
Our departure towards Edrigate was a dour affair. Maevis lies dead, killed in an altercation with Darcy. While I had long suspected Maevis' impulsiveness to be her end the fact that it came at the hands of one of our allies is, an unpleasant feeling.
Worse still it seemed Hannah had taken a liking to our reckless Witch Hunter, and news of Maevis' death hit her harder than expected. By the time I had found her, her body was already cold. I have decided not to inform the others, tensions are high enough as is and the news would only further complicate things, though some small part of me wishes I could have done more to help her.
23rd of Midwinter, 1088
Snow and sleet impedes our progress, forcing us to camp on the open road. We were warned doing so may attract the attention of the Devourer Beetles that now stalk the northern reaches, yet another troubling new development spawned in our absence. The Undead too seem more active this far north, even through the blizzard I can see their sickly glow off in the distance. My watch is soon over, I pray that the campfire's warmth permits me some measure of comfort in my rest.
What wretched creatures these Devourers are, unaffected by bow and sword alike they struck while we were sleeping. Only through Darcy's watchful eyes were we able to make our escape, though through the blinding snow pressing on may be as dangerous as staying in place, we shall have to travel carefully from here on out.
24th of Midwinter, 1088
At last we have made it to Edrigate, the massive city walls should do well to keep the beasts at bay. We have found another traveling companion, a massive brute by the name of Fjorvarr. His strength may come in handy if we are forced to deal with the Devourers again. We have been given additional information on our mission. It seems the The Hands of the Shaper are operating a research base centered around the Black Needle of the Greenpine Forest and we are to assist them in repelling a group of bandits who have been assaulting the camp. While the Greenfolk are reason enough to make entering the Greenpine a dangerous proposition, rumors swirl that the Undead have been spotted within the forest itself, should we encounter even one of those abominations it is likely a death sentence for us all.
26th of Midwinter, 1088
Our journey to the Black Needle Camp was thankfully uneventful, though we have encountered several goblin patrols, meaning Greenfolk are likely in the area. Worse still, I get the sense that something is stalking us through the darkness, though we have found no trace of it yet.
The Black Needle is even more foreboding than I had anticipated. Sleep is difficult in it's ever looming shadow. The abyss-black stone feels as though it reaches out to me, tearing away at my very soul. Even flora dares not grow in it's presence, and few of the other camp members approach it unless ordered to. Curiously, only Megan seems unaffected by it. The sooner we leave this place the better.
29th of Midwinter, 1088
I am familiar with the Undead through textbooks and tales passed on by Monster Slayers, but to see one up close is an altogether different experience entirely. Despite it's size it moves almost silently, the first thing you notice is the smell, the sickly sweet stench of fresh and decaying flesh mixing together. During our return to Edrigate to re-supply we encountered it. It is through sheer luck and the sacrifice of several of the camp's defenders that we managed to escape unscathed as we did, had we not spotted it sooner we may not have found ourselves so lucky. Fighting it head on is suicide, as flame and steel both failed to bring the creature down, if we encounter it again we will need to have a plan.
And yet a single thought haunts me more that the image of that sulking beast. During our pursuit we were once more being observed, there is something else stalking that forest, something of greater intelligence than an Undead or a Greenfolk.
30th of Midwinter, 1088
We have returned to the Spire Camp to begin searching for the bandits. The snow and cold makes progress slow, but we are confident we will soon find them. Daisy's new winter wear has helped her brave the cold surprisingly well, though her armaments are lacking, we will need to requisition some new weapons when we return to town.
Disturbingly it seems the Undead has found the camp, several graves were defiled, the bodies within torn asunder and scattered around the camp.
31st of Midwinter, 1088
The search progresses smoothly. We have found some tracks along a river bank which seem relatively fresh. Two sets of tracks appear clearly human, though the third is unlike any I've seen before. The ridged soles imply some sort of foot covering, though the size is significantly larger than a human. It seems our quarry may have additional pursuers.
33rd of Midwinter, 1088
The goblin patrols continue to be a nuisance, though Daisy has grown more adept at dealing with them, it seems her sparring sessions with Darcy have started to bear fruit. There are now more of the mysterious entities watching us. We can see them in the darkness, clusters of glowing emerald spheres, though they flit away when approached. For now they appear harmless, though we remain on guard.
1st of Tenbri, 1088
The temperature continues to drop and fresh snowfall within the forest is making tracking difficult. More disturbingly, the source of the lights has been revealed. Beetles, those confounded beetles, in icy gale no insect dares to appear these wretched things are still moving about. They have followed us into the forest no doubt, but why, why are they watching us? The first attacked without hesitation but these simply sit and observe. Are they simply waiting for us to lower our guard?
5th of Tenbri, 1088
I fear our time in the forest is slowly driving us mad. We came across a goblin tribe behaving most unusually and were able to engage in rudimentary communications. Our supplies are nearly exhausted so we have elected to return to Edrigate to re-supply.
During the night Darcy reported hearing several strange sounds in the depths of the forest. Akin to rapid strikes of thunder. We are altering our return route to investigate the area Darcy reported hearing the sounds.
Something is most definitely amiss, we've found more of the giant footprints, along with an entire patch of trees reduced to splinters. There are bodies here, though identification is difficult given most have been reduced to chunks of meat. The Greenfolk are known to be violent but Darcy and I have our doubts that they are responsible for this massacre. What else does this cursed forest hide?
6th of Tenbri, 1088
We have returned to Edrigate and will be spending the next day resting up at the The Regimental Reprieve. After spending all this time on the run this air of relaxation feels almost unnatural. The barkeep's daughter has offered to take us on a tour of the 6th district. Once we complete our current mission I feel it would be an ideal opportunity for us all to recuperate for a few days. But alas, we will be departing for the Greenpine soon to finish tracking our elusive quarry.
11th of Tenbri, 1088
We have tracked our targets to their hideout and in doing so made an unfortunate discovery. It seems the bandits we were tasked to hunt down were former members of the Frost Lodge, including their old leader, Hornbrak . They have been raiding the camp, primarily for supplies, while their number dwindles in the face of both the Undead and the Greenfolk. For now we have formed an uneasy alliance, but will need to find a permanent solution to this predicament without running afoul of Markus and his new Empire.
12th of Tenbri, 1088
It seems the Undead had tracked us to Hornbrak's camp. Despite Hornbrak's sacrifice to grant us a chance at escape, the beast caught up to us. Fortunately my studies of the creatures proved fruitful and we succeeded in dispatching it by arboreally induced blunt force trauma. What concerns me is that, in my subsequent investigation of the body, no bone structure was found. Nor were there any tracks leading away from the body. Given the creature's durability and means of movement it's unlikely that it's simply comprised of rotting flesh, so the question lingers, what happened to it's remnants?
Unfortunately our victory was soured slightly as we were unable to convince the remaining Witch Hunters to attempt to clear their name. After much deliberation we provided them with supplies and sent them Eastwards to Valeforth. With any luck they can find a place to remain inconspicuous.
15th of Tenbri, 1088
We have arrived once more at the Spire Camp to re-supply and assist in their fortification against the Greenfolk. Darcy has taken Daisy hunting granting me a moment to unwind and collect my thoughts. Fjorvaar has expressed dissatisfaction in our leaving his precious hammer behind, but personally, after seeing him speaking to it at night, I hope the cursed thing stays buried.
20th of Tenbri, 1088
We've made it back to Edrigate once more. The journey back was harrowing not by the whim of any foul creature, but rather due to the glaring omission of a decent map. Thankfully we packed well and were able to find our way out of the forest with supplies to spare. The long way back also granted us the chance to explore more of the forest and we encountered several intriguing creatures which thankfully did not immediately seek to murder us, among them a most magnificent snow white giant ferret which would make for a fantastic steed if I had the time to tame it.
24th of Tenbri, 1088
The eve of the Unification Day festival is upon us and we have been approached with a new assignment. It seems that the new government of the Northern Confederation has some issues with remnants of the old order and we've been tasked with clearing them out under cover of nightfall. While I agree with the casting off of the old ways, the methods in which this change is being enacted has me somewhat concerned. Still, today is a day of celebration and most of us are looking forward to taking a day to relax and unwind.
3rd of Meling, 1089
How quickly things can change. Two days ago we were happily throwing back flagons of ale in relative comradeship, a day ago Fjorvaar attempted to kill Daisy, mere hours ago I myself was dead at his hands. And now, we wander through aimlessly through this kaleidoscope hallway. I know the deal I made with the entity for my and Daisy's life will cost me dearly, but at this point I no longer care, I cannot stand to see her in any more danger, I will see to that even if it costs me my own life.
10th of Meling, 1089
Our rations are exhausted, we grow weary from a lack of sleep. Thrice now I've seen movement at the end of these seemingly endless corridors only for it to vanish and I know not if it is my own failing mind or a genuine threat. I will not let it end here, I can not let it end here. We will find a way out of this labyrinth. We have to.
12th of Meling, 1089
We've escaped the other realm with the aid of Lucina's gem and found ourselves within a castle deep within an unknown forest of some description. The cultists that seem to control the castle are an odd bunch but have shown themselves friendly for now and have provided us with lodging. With any luck we should be gone from this place come mor
19 of Mayeling, 1089
My name is Daisy Ayara November, daughter of Adrian November and Megan Ayara, student of Darcy Surarav Taloran and Maevis Faustine, this is my story.
I have found passage aboard the vessel Silverwind headed for the norther continent. Our departure was fortunately timed as it seems a storm has closed off northbound sea travel, though I must give some credit to one Miss Megan Ayara, a self proclaimed hero of the people who aided us in procuring entry into this vessel, despite her kindly demeanor I cannot shake a sense of unease eminating from her, Lucina especially does not seem to take kindly to her presence. Though it seems I am not the only one in desperate need to reach new shores, as we are joined by, what is perhaps the most boisterous Witch Hunter I have had the misfortune of encountering over the course of my travels. She was willing to give her name, one Maevis Faustine, so unless she is partaking in a particularly elaborate ruse she seems unaware of my current predicament. Regardless, I will have to keep a close watch on her and Lucina to avoid any unfortunate incidents.
7th of Midsomer, 1086
The past few days were uneventful, but it seems the storm has seen fit to make this journey more troublesome than anticipated. As part of our arrangement for safe travel I have been pressed into service aboard this vessel like some sort of common serf. While this work would ordinarily be far beneath a person of my status it does provide an opportunity to investigate this ship's crew and my fellow passengers. Perhaps something of value can be learned.
10th of Midsomer, 1086
Curse that nine times damned witch hunter. Her foolish antics have rendered us both bedridden. The pain of this broken limb is nothing compared to the fact that it was caused attempting to save that fool from their own actions. I will rest now, may the morning bring me relief from this pain and Maevis's ineffectual attempts to draw my ire.
22nd of Midsomer, 1086
At last our goal has been reached. This morning we entered the harbor of Northgate. Injuries notwithstanding the journey went better than expected and we have made good time. It appears this town is rife with travelers like ourselves and we have drawn the attention of an unlikely pair, a monk of some description going by Gavin Mahled, and a brutish Monster Slayer calling herself Darcy Surarav. I had hoped to make for Edrigate immediately, however the journey has been more tiring than expected, and with the reprieve granted by the storm a night to rest and prepare for the journey seems prudent.
25th of Midsomer, 1086
At Lucina's behest we spent much of today exploring the sewers beneath the city. The experience was by far the least pleasant I've had in my travels thus far, and despite several hours at the local hot springs I am certain the stench of that place still hangs over my like a rancid specter. Though the trip was not without merit, within the sewer depths we were made aware of a power unlike any I had encountered before. If it could somehow be bent to do our bidding we could achieve a greatness untold since the ancient past. More than that it seems our maladjusted family has gained a new member. Illwit, a young sewer dweller with a name most unbecoming, I've decided on calling her Daisy which she has shown to take kindly to.
26th of Midsomer, 1086
Today I once again encountered the entity I first bore witness to within the sewers. It seems willing to make a deal of sorts, granting knowledge and power in exchange for service. I have elected to accept it's deal, as what it offers will aid me greatly in my goals, yet I must remain vigilant as there is no telling what this creature's ultimate plans are.
27th of Midsomer, 1086
It seems my assessment of the child's willingness to leave her home behind may have been a bit optimistic. As we made our way across the mountain pass she wept for several minutes. My attempts to console her were largely ineffective and I feel that I will have to improve my handling of these situations moving forward. The remainder of the journey passed without major incident and we have stopped over at a small farmstead along the way.
28th of Midsomer, 1086
Though we've arrived in Magtria Vila, sleep does not come easy to me this night. The child in our care nearly passed of illnesses unknown but suspected magical. Will write more in the morning.
29th of Midsomer, 1086
My suspicions proved correct, as Hospitaller Julianne confirmed some sort of magical parasite appears to have attached itself to Daisy. Fortunately the Hospitaller was able to drive the parasite from her body and we are taking Daisy back to our lodgings to recuperate. A local nobleman calling himself the Baron has seen to providing us with greatly improved accommodations and is planning on meeting with us to discuss further dealings involving possibly traitorous elements within this city's nobility. Before we attend Megan, Darcy and Maevis have encountered a couple of ne'er-do-wells causing trouble around the hospital and are going to investigate.
31st of Midsomer, 1086
Lucina is dead. I find myself at a loss, she has been by my side since we set off from Kastar and now she is simply gone. They took us to witness the body and collect her possessions, even then, looking at her laying lifeless upon the slab, I could not quite believe she had truly died, that surely this is just another practical joke and she would be up and about in mere moments. I had not even been given the chance to say my farewells as it appears the leader of those ruffians we encountered possesses power far in excess of what I thought capable, and it is likely we would all be dead were it not for Megan's timely intervention.
A thousand thoughts race through my mind this evening, the Gem in Lucina's possession is unlike anything I have seen before and will need to be studied, as will that strange woman's power. However, our primary goal now is to identify who that woman is so we can formulate a plan to rid ourselves of her. As one of noble birth it is likely she will attempt to retaliate so we must remain vigilant.
32nd of Midsomer, 1086
Whether it is fortune or misfortune I cannot say, but it appears our Monster Slayer associate is related in some way to this Madrius Taloran character we encountered a few days past. With a name other information was quick to follow and we have built up quite a dossier on our adversary. The others are seeking a more violent form of retribution, though I believe we may be able to use what we have learned to force an understanding of sorts. Our conversation with Markus Saitarius has proven more difficult. It seems the man has, by some means, learned of my exile and is attempting to use this fact to solicit my aid in his quest to reshape the world. I can't help but be intrigued by his promises of a better world, though his methods so far seem lacking. It seems there is some sort of rivalry between him and our current benefactor, something to consider for the future.
Daisy has been taken, I can only assume the culprit is Madrius. We depart for the manor with haste, I only pray that our luck holds.
33rd of Midsomer, 1086
Few times in my life have I felt rage of the intensity with which I have experienced it today. In my time back home I interacted with many a callous nobleman, who viewed the lives around them as mere curiosities to be toyed with and discarded as needed, but never have I encountered one that took the same delight in causing misery that the Taloran woman does. If every injury this monster inflicted upon Daisy could be returned hundredfold it would still be but a fraction of the punishment she deserves for her actions. Daisy is sleeping now, the mages were able to ease her pain, but it is likely that her wounds will take years to fully heal, to say nothing of the mental stress that girl has endured.
My only solace is the knowledge that Madrius' death will prevent any further suffering. Though the repercussions of killing a noblewoman will be severe I am sure that with enough time we will be able to clear our name. The leader of the local Witch Hunter order, Argarvus Hornbrak, has even approached us to lead an investigation into Madrius' affairs to determine what other magical taboos she has broken.
1st of Calorvact, 1086
I swear that Maevis will be the death of me yet, the fool activated some manner of blood ritual Madrius had placed within her manor. Through what I can only assume to be dumb luck or a cruel gods punishment upon me our intrepid witch hunter was able to barely escape the mansion, however as we were the ones who killed Madrius on suspicion of witchcraft, we have been tasked with assisting the investigation. A pair of witch hunter acolytes have also joined us on our excursion, Jim and Hannah. The two seem inexperienced but well meaning, though I worry their archaic codes may cause issues.
After some debate we have decided to have Daisy accompany us on our journey. Her experience with Madrius has left her petrified at the thought of being left alone. The decision may be foolish, but at this moment I cannot bear to leave the poor girl behind. Perhaps I am growing soft?
2nd of Calorvact, 1086
We have spent quite some time within this other realm, initially nothing seemed amiss, though upon closer inspection the furnishings within this version of Madrius' home are most macabre. We have encountered several seemingly hostile creatures, though with the aid of the town guard escorting us we have made quick work of most. While we appear to be making progress I cannot help but feel that we are being watched.
3rd of Calorvact, 1086
As we progress further and further into this other realm the environment around us becomes more and more distorted. While our initial excursion took us through what for the most part appeared to be a gory version of Madrius' estate we now find ourselves walking through a resplendent cityscape. Despite it's alluring beauty the corpses we find along the way reveal a hidden danger, we must remain alert. Daisy has handled the experience with surprising maturity, as has Maevis. Darcy and Megan have proven their combat prowess time and again, it seems the creatures of this realm have even come to fear Megan.
??? of Calorvact, 1086
I've lost track of how many days we've spent wandering this hellscape. Time and space appear to stretch and distort the longer we wander. Judging by our remaining rations we must have been in here for weeks, though it feels like only hours have passed. We've taken refuge in another copy of Madrius' mannor, barricading the door and windows to slow the creatures stalking us. Outside the landscape has shifted once more into a series of strange islands. We are planning on leaving the city behind and making our way across the islands come morning.
???
At last we've escaped Madrius' realm, four of the city guard, along with Jim, one of the two Witch Hunter acolytes, perished fending off Madrius' assault. It seems her time spent within the other realm has warped her physically and she now bears a form as monstrous as her personality. Thankfully it seems her power is limited to her own realm so we should be relatively safe for now. Markus has taken us into military custody and has requested a report on the realm, by my observations a great many things have changed in our absence, I am sure the next few days will be very informative.
18th of Midwinter, 1088
It seems our journey through Madrius' realm has shifted us forward in time. While we were only trapped within for a few weeks at most, two years have passed for those outside. I shudder to think what would have become of Daisy had we left her behind.
In our absence Markus has moved to consolidate power with frightening efficiency. He now rules as Regent over a new kingdom and appears to have seized control of much of the northern continent. While he hesitates to admit it openly it seems that war may be brewing with the mainland. We have been tasked with hunting down the remnants of the Witch Hunters who maintain loyalty to the Magtarian Royal Family.
22nd of Midwinter, 1088
Our departure towards Edrigate was a dour affair. Maevis lies dead, killed in an altercation with Darcy. While I had long suspected Maevis' impulsiveness to be her end the fact that it came at the hands of one of our allies is, an unpleasant feeling.
Worse still it seemed Hannah had taken a liking to our reckless Witch Hunter, and news of Maevis' death hit her harder than expected. By the time I had found her, her body was already cold. I have decided not to inform the others, tensions are high enough as is and the news would only further complicate things, though some small part of me wishes I could have done more to help her.
23rd of Midwinter, 1088
Snow and sleet impedes our progress, forcing us to camp on the open road. We were warned doing so may attract the attention of the Devourer Beetles that now stalk the northern reaches, yet another troubling new development spawned in our absence. The Undead too seem more active this far north, even through the blizzard I can see their sickly glow off in the distance. My watch is soon over, I pray that the campfire's warmth permits me some measure of comfort in my rest.
What wretched creatures these Devourers are, unaffected by bow and sword alike they struck while we were sleeping. Only through Darcy's watchful eyes were we able to make our escape, though through the blinding snow pressing on may be as dangerous as staying in place, we shall have to travel carefully from here on out.
24th of Midwinter, 1088
At last we have made it to Edrigate, the massive city walls should do well to keep the beasts at bay. We have found another traveling companion, a massive brute by the name of Fjorvarr. His strength may come in handy if we are forced to deal with the Devourers again. We have been given additional information on our mission. It seems the The Hands of the Shaper are operating a research base centered around the Black Needle of the Greenpine Forest and we are to assist them in repelling a group of bandits who have been assaulting the camp. While the Greenfolk are reason enough to make entering the Greenpine a dangerous proposition, rumors swirl that the Undead have been spotted within the forest itself, should we encounter even one of those abominations it is likely a death sentence for us all.
26th of Midwinter, 1088
Our journey to the Black Needle Camp was thankfully uneventful, though we have encountered several goblin patrols, meaning Greenfolk are likely in the area. Worse still, I get the sense that something is stalking us through the darkness, though we have found no trace of it yet.
The Black Needle is even more foreboding than I had anticipated. Sleep is difficult in it's ever looming shadow. The abyss-black stone feels as though it reaches out to me, tearing away at my very soul. Even flora dares not grow in it's presence, and few of the other camp members approach it unless ordered to. Curiously, only Megan seems unaffected by it. The sooner we leave this place the better.
29th of Midwinter, 1088
I am familiar with the Undead through textbooks and tales passed on by Monster Slayers, but to see one up close is an altogether different experience entirely. Despite it's size it moves almost silently, the first thing you notice is the smell, the sickly sweet stench of fresh and decaying flesh mixing together. During our return to Edrigate to re-supply we encountered it. It is through sheer luck and the sacrifice of several of the camp's defenders that we managed to escape unscathed as we did, had we not spotted it sooner we may not have found ourselves so lucky. Fighting it head on is suicide, as flame and steel both failed to bring the creature down, if we encounter it again we will need to have a plan.
And yet a single thought haunts me more that the image of that sulking beast. During our pursuit we were once more being observed, there is something else stalking that forest, something of greater intelligence than an Undead or a Greenfolk.
30th of Midwinter, 1088
We have returned to the Spire Camp to begin searching for the bandits. The snow and cold makes progress slow, but we are confident we will soon find them. Daisy's new winter wear has helped her brave the cold surprisingly well, though her armaments are lacking, we will need to requisition some new weapons when we return to town.
Disturbingly it seems the Undead has found the camp, several graves were defiled, the bodies within torn asunder and scattered around the camp.
31st of Midwinter, 1088
The search progresses smoothly. We have found some tracks along a river bank which seem relatively fresh. Two sets of tracks appear clearly human, though the third is unlike any I've seen before. The ridged soles imply some sort of foot covering, though the size is significantly larger than a human. It seems our quarry may have additional pursuers.
33rd of Midwinter, 1088
The goblin patrols continue to be a nuisance, though Daisy has grown more adept at dealing with them, it seems her sparring sessions with Darcy have started to bear fruit. There are now more of the mysterious entities watching us. We can see them in the darkness, clusters of glowing emerald spheres, though they flit away when approached. For now they appear harmless, though we remain on guard.
1st of Tenbri, 1088
The temperature continues to drop and fresh snowfall within the forest is making tracking difficult. More disturbingly, the source of the lights has been revealed. Beetles, those confounded beetles, in icy gale no insect dares to appear these wretched things are still moving about. They have followed us into the forest no doubt, but why, why are they watching us? The first attacked without hesitation but these simply sit and observe. Are they simply waiting for us to lower our guard?
5th of Tenbri, 1088
I fear our time in the forest is slowly driving us mad. We came across a goblin tribe behaving most unusually and were able to engage in rudimentary communications. Our supplies are nearly exhausted so we have elected to return to Edrigate to re-supply.
During the night Darcy reported hearing several strange sounds in the depths of the forest. Akin to rapid strikes of thunder. We are altering our return route to investigate the area Darcy reported hearing the sounds.
Something is most definitely amiss, we've found more of the giant footprints, along with an entire patch of trees reduced to splinters. There are bodies here, though identification is difficult given most have been reduced to chunks of meat. The Greenfolk are known to be violent but Darcy and I have our doubts that they are responsible for this massacre. What else does this cursed forest hide?
6th of Tenbri, 1088
We have returned to Edrigate and will be spending the next day resting up at the The Regimental Reprieve. After spending all this time on the run this air of relaxation feels almost unnatural. The barkeep's daughter has offered to take us on a tour of the 6th district. Once we complete our current mission I feel it would be an ideal opportunity for us all to recuperate for a few days. But alas, we will be departing for the Greenpine soon to finish tracking our elusive quarry.
11th of Tenbri, 1088
We have tracked our targets to their hideout and in doing so made an unfortunate discovery. It seems the bandits we were tasked to hunt down were former members of the Frost Lodge, including their old leader, Hornbrak . They have been raiding the camp, primarily for supplies, while their number dwindles in the face of both the Undead and the Greenfolk. For now we have formed an uneasy alliance, but will need to find a permanent solution to this predicament without running afoul of Markus and his new Empire.
12th of Tenbri, 1088
It seems the Undead had tracked us to Hornbrak's camp. Despite Hornbrak's sacrifice to grant us a chance at escape, the beast caught up to us. Fortunately my studies of the creatures proved fruitful and we succeeded in dispatching it by arboreally induced blunt force trauma. What concerns me is that, in my subsequent investigation of the body, no bone structure was found. Nor were there any tracks leading away from the body. Given the creature's durability and means of movement it's unlikely that it's simply comprised of rotting flesh, so the question lingers, what happened to it's remnants?
Unfortunately our victory was soured slightly as we were unable to convince the remaining Witch Hunters to attempt to clear their name. After much deliberation we provided them with supplies and sent them Eastwards to Valeforth. With any luck they can find a place to remain inconspicuous.
15th of Tenbri, 1088
We have arrived once more at the Spire Camp to re-supply and assist in their fortification against the Greenfolk. Darcy has taken Daisy hunting granting me a moment to unwind and collect my thoughts. Fjorvaar has expressed dissatisfaction in our leaving his precious hammer behind, but personally, after seeing him speaking to it at night, I hope the cursed thing stays buried.
20th of Tenbri, 1088
We've made it back to Edrigate once more. The journey back was harrowing not by the whim of any foul creature, but rather due to the glaring omission of a decent map. Thankfully we packed well and were able to find our way out of the forest with supplies to spare. The long way back also granted us the chance to explore more of the forest and we encountered several intriguing creatures which thankfully did not immediately seek to murder us, among them a most magnificent snow white giant ferret which would make for a fantastic steed if I had the time to tame it.
24th of Tenbri, 1088
The eve of the Unification Day festival is upon us and we have been approached with a new assignment. It seems that the new government of the Northern Confederation has some issues with remnants of the old order and we've been tasked with clearing them out under cover of nightfall. While I agree with the casting off of the old ways, the methods in which this change is being enacted has me somewhat concerned. Still, today is a day of celebration and most of us are looking forward to taking a day to relax and unwind.
3rd of Meling, 1089
How quickly things can change. Two days ago we were happily throwing back flagons of ale in relative comradeship, a day ago Fjorvaar attempted to kill Daisy, mere hours ago I myself was dead at his hands. And now, we wander through aimlessly through this kaleidoscope hallway. I know the deal I made with the entity for my and Daisy's life will cost me dearly, but at this point I no longer care, I cannot stand to see her in any more danger, I will see to that even if it costs me my own life.
10th of Meling, 1089
Our rations are exhausted, we grow weary from a lack of sleep. Thrice now I've seen movement at the end of these seemingly endless corridors only for it to vanish and I know not if it is my own failing mind or a genuine threat. I will not let it end here, I can not let it end here. We will find a way out of this labyrinth. We have to.
12th of Meling, 1089
We've escaped the other realm with the aid of Lucina's gem and found ourselves within a castle deep within an unknown forest of some description. The cultists that seem to control the castle are an odd bunch but have shown themselves friendly for now and have provided us with lodging. With any luck we should be gone from this place come mor
19 of M
My name is Daisy Ayara November, daughter of Adrian November and Megan Ayara, student of Darcy Surarav Taloran and Maevis Faustine, this is my story.
Comments