Journal of Roric Tharmen

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Roric has decided to start keep a journal. He doesn't write it daily, only when he sees the need to add on it. Between the pages are letter, notes and worthy seperate additions. The book is covered in leathers and he keeps it with him at all times.


Entry I

I sat in my rented room, a flaggon in one hand and fork eagerly on the other. I was ready to dig in to my hard earned meal. Pork, potatos and vegetables waited on my platter, ready to be consumed. Just as I was ready to start, someone knocked on my door. I sighed heavily, pondering wheter I should ignore it or go see who was there. A moment later there was another knock, breaking my pondering. I got up from my seat and walked to the door, shouting through it.

-"Who is it and what do you want?"
I asked with annoyed and angry tone.
-"It is Bentley the barkeep. Someone left you a letter for you sir and asked it to be delivered!"
He replied sharply with haste.
-"Slide it under the door!"
I anwsered with a certain guess it must be some company mail.

Right after my response the barkeep slid the letter under the door. I heard his foorsteps as he hurried downstairs to his many thirsty customers. I kneeled down looking at the letter and to my suprise, the envelope did not bear seal of the shields. In fact there was nothing on it, which left me curious. I grabbed it from the floor and sat down to my meal again, tossing it on the table. I looked at my dinner, weighing wheter to eat now and leave my curiosity unsatisfied. I decided not and grabbed a letteropener on the desk, slicing the envelope open.

I pulled the letter and unfolded it. What appeared was a letter from someone I had not met or heard in years.

A letter has been tucked between the page.


As I read through my expression slowly changed from a happy smile of suprise to seriousness the subject caused. Sadness and Sorrow filled my mind. A moment I knew was near when I left my home had now arrived. I lowered the letter, staring a candle lighting my room. Locked in a state of loss and emotion everything blurred around me and became meaningless. I lost my appetite and my meal went cold.

The happy drunken shouting and chattering slowly toned down as the night started turning to early morning in the Friendly Arms Inn. The guests slowly started stumbling towards their rooms or taking a leave to courtyard. Some making rumble as they tumbled down in the stairs and some falling due to disdurbed balance. Another succesful night for the enstablishment, but not for me. All night I sat there, not a minute of rest or sleep. In my head was a race of emotion, confusion, guilt, plans and loss. What if I had not left, what if I had returned earlier. Questions running like a stream or river. After hours of thinking I knew I had to return home. I had to leave the company and life here behind me and head to pay my respects to a man that made and prepared me. Now I realized how much I owned to him.

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Entry II

I met Umbral and Loren at the courtyard of the inn. It was almost if they knew I was expecting them. I had folded my Silver Cross cloak neatly on the side as they approach the bench I sat on in front of the auction stall. The expression on their face and my grim appearence must have told them not all was well, so we headed inside for proper talk. We sat on the corner, I told them of the letter and the sad and breaking news it contained. They both seemed understanding offering their apologies. When I told my wish to resign Umbral rumbbled first disaproving, but accepted it. He did take my resignation, but not my cloak. He told me I had a place among The Shields and thanked me for my services should I want to return after my journey. After a moment I nodded and accepted aswell. I told him to return the masterwork swords Lord Valkrun had given me, he didn't accept it. He told me to keep it and considered it a reward for a job well done. I accepted of course, we were and continue to be a deadly pair in battle. After this meeting we parted our ways wishing fond farewells. I had prepared my supplies to journey North and I departed with determination and a bit of clarity. My time in the company had now ended.

My journey towards North continued as expected. I stopped at Baldur's Gate, informimg the various employers of my journey and finishing my loose ends. I stopped shortly for a drink at Elfsong Tavern, before heading down to the docks. There I borded a merchant vessel bound for Neverwinter, "The Iron Lady". A horrible name for a ship, something to do with the captains late wife I hear. Once I found my small cabin, I closed myself inside. I told the lad showing me around to keep me fed three times a day, offering a generous pay. He accepted with a wide smile heading off to other chores. My journey went otherwise uneventful, for I was asleep most of it.

After few days off slow and smooth sailing the lad knocked on my door. I opened my eyes and heard seagulls and the waves bashing on the stonebuilt docks of the busy harbour. I gathered my things well rested and headed on deck. The jewel of the North laid in front of my eyes on clear and sunny midday. The harbour was buzzling with busy workers, travelers, merchants and townsfolk going on their daily business. I headed towards the inn I currently sit in after some business with a few traders. I asked around about the recent happenings around the area, nothing all too serious effecting my plans. I will head to Helm's Hold soon enough.

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Entry III

I still remembered the way to the fortified monastery from memory, a one day journey southeast from the city. The journey went well from Neverwinter, to my suprise. I had expected some brigands or worse, yet it seems the patrols from the city aswell the vigilants of the hold keep these parts safe. A good thing indeed. Only people I ran into was some travelers going on about their business. A smile graced my face when the hold first appeared in horrizon, a thing rare on my figure these past days. Few things have changed here since I took my leave, but still many people regonized me and welcomed me with hospitality, of course. They offered me back my old chamber, to my suprise. Apparently it had been used as a stocroom for a time, but was emptied again. I gladly entered the familiar room. I spent the few days in relative quiet, walking around the hold and helping out where I could. Offered my help to spar some of the men in the grounds aswell.

One night I sat in a hall in front of the a fireplace, completely focused on the roaring flames in front of me. An unfamilar eldery man sat in the chair next to me. At fist I did not notice him, but then after a moment I realized his presence. He looked at me with a calm smile, as if examining me. I looked at him and nodded, after akward silence.

-"Evening. I don't think we have met yet."
I said to him after the silence.
-"Evening."
The man replied, still looking me calmly.
I offered him a slight smile and then turned to the fire again, as the man did not follow my example, I turned to him again slightly annoyed.
-"Can I help you, sir?"
The man smiled and shaked his head, turning to the fire.
"No, but you look like you've had some hard times."
I looked at him a moment, then nodded.
-"Aye, I lost someone important."
The eldery man nodded.
-"My apologies."
I smiled back at him with a nod.
-"My thanks."
He then stroked his long white beard, looking at the fire pondering before speaking again.
-"And that is why a fighting man such as yourself wanders these halls, reading books? You have a bearing and marks of a warrior all too clear about you, young man."
I looked at him a moment, bit suprised.
-"You have keen eyes old man, and yes I thought some peace here might bring clarity."
The man nodded with a shortly smile.
-"And have you found clarity?"
I pondered and sighed.
-"Not yet."
He nodded again, replying after a silence.
-"May I ask who he was? The one you lost."
I pondered a moment and giving him an answer and some more, slightly to my own suprise.
-"He was my father, my mentor and teacher. I left him some years ago for selfish reasons. Now he is dead and I could not fullfill the old mans last wish."
The old man mumbeled, his face getting a more serious look and expression.
-"What was this wish?"
I sighed.
-"To see me one last time."
The old man turned to the fire and stroked his long beard again for a fair moment then turned to me again.
-"I think that is the wish of every dying parent, don't you think?"
I snorted a amused chuckle.
-"Perhaps, yes."
The man then continued.
-"Death is natural part of life, one that comes to us sooner or later. You intent to see this wish done then?"
I nodded
-"I'm on my way to see his grave, although it is far away."
The elderly man pondered then leaned foward speaking to me again.
-"I'm afraid it is too late to grant the wish and that grave is there for the rest of your remaining days. If I read you correctly lad and your father was your mentor, then perhaps you find peace in action rather than reading books? Maybe that is what your father would have wanted. To go put those teaching to use, rather than loiter with them here or in front of his own tomb. You have many years still in front of you, so make them count. Once you are growing old, you can take that journey to his grave before meeting yours. So go do his legacy justice, rather than waste it away mourning over him."
I looked at the man full of surprise sharing a moment of silence. Then he placed his hand on my shoulder.
-"Think about it, it is just a rumbling of an old man after all."
He smiled, stood up and walked away.

I looked at this mysterious man walking off a moment, before turning to the roaring fire. The words got me thinking, and through out the night those words became more wise. At that moment before going to sleep I was certain his words were true. At the morning I will back my things, and head back. I will try find this elder for a proper thanks for his words. I need to send a letter to Bolric aswell...

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Etry IV

I have returned to the coast some days ago and met again some of my friends. Of note I met Nihlus and Marigold on the gates of the Friendly Arms Inn. To my happy suprise he had the gold from Solaris of our capture of The Red Sorceress. She had given the gold to Nihlus as I asked him to retrieve it for me, it was about time I recieved this rightful reward of the deed. It was one thing that troubled me when I departed towards North. I also spoke to Wai Li, a woman in service of Helm's Church. She and some amnians had plans to construct a defensive tower to the path crossing the Cloud Peak Mountains. I accepted to help her in this project when she asked of it. I took a few days patrol on the construction site and the path. The region is extremenly hostile and cold. I will aid how I can, but I have my doubt due to the large giant population and the legendary dragon hoarding in one of the mountain tops. At least I hear rumors she is there somewhere. I have seen eggs in the castle of the giants, which servers a proof of her presence. I will have to talk to Wai Li about this once I see her again. The tower would help trade and people to cross the mountains more safe than what it is now.

I have met some of my old Shieldbrothers, all of them I've declined my return to the company. I've had time to think of the old mans words in Helm's Hold. The more I think of them the more wise they sound. My father always told me to protect and serve people that truly need it. He once mentioned he would serve in the Stone Shields even without his monthly pay, because people appraciated him. He said making people feel safe and secure was enough alone. Now I look back my life all these years since I left home, I see how I've departed from this route he led me into. For years I've just worked for gold and wealth, despite wheter the payer actually had need of my service. Most merchant I worked for had an a small squad of guards to secure his goods or protect him personally just so he could score a larger profit by taking a more dangerous route. Meanwhile people that could not affoard the protection would take the route along and we would find them dead on our way. I never thought that these people actually needed me with them instead of a fat trader? It's why I intent not to return to the company, nor make my living as a sellsword no more. Gold and wealth has its charm for a time, but it wears off eventually. From now on I will only make the amount I need and focus on helping people that truly need it. Time to begin living as my example did.

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Entry V

I sat in Elfsong tavern an ale in front of me. I had stayed in the inn for some time as I was expecting a response. Then a boy strolled in the inn asking some patron, if he was me. I overheard the bright lad and whistled to him cheerfully. He quickly ran to me asking my identity. I smiled with a answer and parted the message he had for few gold coins. The excitment and smile was a sight on his face. It was a response I had been waiting, from the Temple of Helm. I had some days ago delievered the clerigy in the temple a letter asking if they needed help in the church. I had decided to serve the faith directly once more. In exghange I asked a permission to stay and sleep in the temple quarters. The message was from Watcher Martin Valdore and he asked that I made my way to Temple as soon as possible. He wished to speak with me personally. I made my way through the city to the temple doors and entered.

The priest was there behind a ledger, minding his own busy business. I bowed my head to him respectully, saying my name and business I was with. He was stern, letting little motion to his stoic face, but it seemed he was pelased. He asked me several question regarding my request. I told him of my fathers passing and how I had decided to abandone my mercenary work. I had grown tired the work I had done as sellsword for the past years and wanted to change to do something me father thought me to. Serving the faith seemed like a ideal move. The Helmites are numerous in the South, but not here in the Northern part of the Coast. He seemed to understand my reasoning and motives and accpeted them with what little expression his face showed. He offered me a duty, but first I was to repeat and say the dogma of the Great Guard in front of his statue and altar. Martin but on a ceremonial gauntlet and I kneeled on the feet, pondering and recalling the dogma familiar to me. When I thought to had it mezmorized I looked up to the stone face of the statue and repeated the words.

"Nerver betray your trust. Be Vigilant. Stand, wait and watch carefully. Be fair and diligent in the conduct of your orders. Protect the weak, poor, injured, young and do not sacrifice them for others or yourself. Anticipate attacks and be ready. Know your foes. Care for your weapons so they can perform the duty when called upon. Careful planning always defeats rushed actions in the end. Always obey orders, provoding those orders follow the dictates of Helm."

I admit I stumbled in the middle of it. Not because of not knowing it, but to say it out loud was strange. I had not done it in a long time. Martin offered a blessing of the Watcher after the succesful ceremony. I admit it warmed my heart.

Martin was pleased with me and told me the details of my duty. I was to go and carry a message to the Temple of Helm in Nashkel. I would be accompanied by a Pilgrim of Helm, Sir Orin. Together we were to stand on the very spot where Helm had appeared himself to protect the mortal world. He gave me the message in a sealed letter. After that he wished me luck and we parted ways. He return to his duty and I took to my duty. He had said I should seek allies, so I headed to White Mask Theater. I had talked with Lucy and one called Varra not long ago and they had left to the theater. To my luck the two was there indeed. They were dancing waltz, not something I could do and it seemed my sudden arrival had them stumble on their steps aswell. I asked them to help me in my task, and they accepted. Varra was going to travel to Beregost to seek Cecillia for some business.

We met Sir Orin on the farmlands in front of Wyrm's Crossing. He was a eldery man, donned in full plate carrying a blade and shield with him. Clearly a seasoned man that had seen action. I was glad to see that instead of a usually sloppy noble. Together the four of us started our long journey. First we were attacked by black noctural creatures on the Trade Way shortly we had crossed the bridge. The same creatures that inhabit that cave near Friendly Arms Inn. There was a large group of them but we managed to defeat them with ease. We continued past the inn to our second encouter. Apparently a raiding patry of gnolls had mustered courage and thought to raid the road. We defeated them with ease aswell. The rest of the journey went well and as expected. Then we arrived to Beregost. We stopped there very briefly as Varra had some business in the Song of The Morning Temple, though she did not see Cecillia unfortunately. Luckily it did not take long and we could continue our journey South. It was on this road we got waylaid by a large group of Goblin Warg Raiders that forced us a bit off the road. There was a lot of them, but we managed them aswell. Even old Orin had to use his sword against them, it was a sight indeed. The age had not slowed down the old warrior and he fought with skill and courage. We finally managed to find the road and continued along, slaying some stray goblins on our way. We reached Nashkel shortly in good health. There we parted way with Lucy an Varra. I was most greatful to them for they help and they asked nothing in turn. I will remember that.

We delievered the message to the priest in Nashkel Temple and stood on the place where Helm himself had stood. Now I will wait in Nashkel for there is a meeting to be held with the members of the two Temples.

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Entry VI

I wandered the House of Guardian the next day after our arrival with Sir Orin. However after hours of relaxing and rest, I got little restless. I can only stay put so long, I loaned for something to do and got myself moving. I recalled the town once had a large mine operation west. Nearby the town stood a large mines, now inhabited by foul Orogs and dark dwarves. I had once visited it with some Shields long ago, but now I thought to make myself useful and look around the tunnels once more. It was a hostile place these days to any decent folk. The duergar apparently now mined the ore there to their own use, but that is only speculation. It would certainly explain their presence down there. I gathered my gear and supplies and headed towards west following a trail outside the town gate.

My journey didn't take long until I saw battlements and a huge gate of the mines in the distance. For mine it was certainly well fortified. I prepared myself, knowing to meet the Orogs guarding the walls tirelessly. Two of them were on the lookout and started shooting bolts at my direction once they saw me rushing over the bridge. I blocked them with my shield, rushing to them and easily dispatching them. I took down several more after some struggle and as the dust settled, I made my way to the mines via side door instead of the main gate. The corridor took me behind a group of dark dwarves guarding the gate. I managed to flank them behind, taking them by full suprise. After the battle I pressed fowards to the tunnels of the mine. I proceeded carefully with no interaction. It was on a narrow corridor when I came upon two giant rock creatures. The huge creatures blocked the way in entirely and I had little choice, but to engage them. The fight went on for a long time, and it was a struggle indeed, but I prevailed in the end. Slighty injured I continued in the tunnel further in the mines. I came upon a hall with rails and mining carts rolling deeper into the mines. I followed them in and came upon more dark dwarves. The fight took it's toll as I was still winded after my battle with the Rock Beasts and I knew I had to rest and mend my wounds. I stumbled in the tunnels for a time, until I saw some light coming from a side chamber. I heard some talk from the room. I peeked inside and saw three dwarves arguing between themselves over a open chest. I did not understand anything what they were saying, but they were probably mages seeing they wore robes. I knew I had to take them out quickly, so I took deep breath and charged at them. I took the dwarves by complete suprise and cut them down quickly before they could yell for help. After the quick slaughter, I curiously looked inside the chest. A cloth rested at the bottom besides some coin. I secured the gold and unfolded the cloth. In it rested a strange and dark ring. It was surrounded by aura that seemed the suck the little light casted by torches on the walls. I felt most disdurbed by this item, and I knew I could not let it remain here with these foul things. I folded it back inside the cloth and secured it with me aswell. After a breather and mend, I decided to return to the surface the same way I came. The journey went with little trouble, I only encountered some stray dwarves which I dealth with ease even if injured. I made my way back to Nashkel.

In Nashkel I took some rest in the House of Guardian. When I was fully recovered, I made my way to local store to get an examine on this dark ring. It took some time for them to examine it and identify my item, but after some time they told me it to infused with strange magic, nothing they had seen before. However on the band was a carving, which they said was a signet of Shar, goddess of Shadows. I knew that moment this ring had to be destroyed. I will ask the priests in the Temple or Martin once I return to the Gate after the meeting. I know I can't destroy it on my own.

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Entry VII

Yesterday morning I had a delivery from the clerigy of The Watcher, here in the House of Guardian. It was from High Watchpriest Jaumet Ubina. He asked to meet me as soon as possible. I was currently staying in the training ring of the temple, honing my skill and keeping practise of my swordplay. I made my way to the hall after finishig my session and waited patienly for a time. After an hour or so an armored man strolled into the quiet hall. He made a holy symbol of vigilant before looking around the empty hall. His eyes soon set on me and asked my name, getting a positive answer. He was one of the soldiers of the garrison by the looks of his gear and stripes. He told me to follow him to meet the High Watchpriest. He led me into one of the studies of the Temple where Ubina indeed was waiting for me. Still silghtly occupied by some tome, which he put aside once I knocked and enter the room.

We traded respectful introductions and quickly got to the matters at hand. He wanted to meet me because of the letter of Watcher Martin, as I had expected. The Garrison of Nashkel, the clerigy of The Watcher and Everwatch Knights have had a meeting a few days ago discussing the content of the letter I had delivered to them with Sir Orin. They agreed that the Temple here in Nashkel had gained more followers since the appearence of the Vigilant himself, however they had decided in their wisdom that they should focus here where their vigil standed. The faithful could not directly spare followers to Temple of Shield in the Gate. However they had decided that the Everwatch knights were to extend their duty to North when their duty here in the South gave away for it. I did not object nor offer opinion to their decision. I'm not the one to question it, however I have a feeling this is not a decision Martin will approve. He also told me of a vision one of the faithful had recieved during their meeting. In it a armor clad figure stood vigilant, guarding a gate. Arrows were shot at him, some bouncing off from his armor plates, some sticking painfully, yet he stood his ground and post. Jaumet told me it likely represented the duty in North was to be harsh and painful, but it had to be done. I agreed.

After our talk he gestured to a sealed letter resting on a table in front of me. It was a letter to Temple of Shield. It contained answer to Watcher Martin. The High Watchpriest asked me to deliever this letter to the Gate and to meet with Wai Li, current head of the Everwatch Knights. I was to talk with her about the matters in the North, good that we had already met before. I gladly accepted his duty. Before I set on my tasks I asked him of the ring I had found in the depths of the mines a few days past. I told Ubina of the duergar and how I came by it and what it was. He nodded and took it from me to be destroyed or kept safe in the Temple. The priests would decide the rings faith. I was glad to be rid of its burden and knowing it to be in good hands. He asked me to pray at the altar before leaving. After that we said our farewells.

I left the study and walked into the hall again, approaching the altar in the end of it. I kneeled in front of it, lowering my head to pray. I asked strenght and resolution in performing my duty, so I could do it according to the ways of Helm. As I looked up to the large vigilant eye in front of me, I felt magnificent. It is hard to put to words, but it was like energies ran through my body and I felt clarity and more confident than ever. My breastplate heated in the sensation. When I looked down to it, the same eye I gazed upon was branded on my armor. I take it as sign and set on duty with confidence.

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Entry VIII

I looked out of my rented room window, it was raining. I got up from my seat and finished my drink, with a heavy sigh. I stormed out to the street and with haste made my way to the palace district. I had arrived earlier yeaterday to the Gate and given Ubinas letter to Watcher Martin. He was so busy with his chores I dared not disdurb him, I can only hope he has had time to read and ponder it through. Soon I stood in front of the heavy doors of the temple and pushed them open. Inside was quiet and dark, but I noticed the Watcher tending his duty on the end in front of the altar. I closed the doors and made my way to him and set myself waiting in front of a pillar. I didn't stand there long when I heard footsteps approaching and then a armor clad man sat on the front bench of the hall. We traded inroductions and he was Lucius, one of the Everwatch Knights whom had been summoned here. I was glad to see him. We didn't wait long when Wai Li entered the Temple through the front door with a wheatered look. Soon after her a Watcher named Galatea entered the temple. one of the knights aswell. After we introduced ourselves last Helmite named Drew entered the hall, with a grumby look no doubt because of the weather. We stood there talking for a brief moment, before Martin turned and called us to gather at the altar.

We made a line to the right side of the altar as Martin adressed us. He welcomed the the four knights to the Temple, making a holy symbol of the Vigilant One to bless the occasion. When introductions were said and done we made it to the present matters. Watcher Martin told that the letter from Ubina said the Everwatch Knights were to extend their duty North when possible. We had suspected ad much and Wai Li confirmed it to Martin. She said the knights here present came volentarily, execpt for Drew whom had come on his own initive, much like myself. The talk went on and I dared to ask a question that had pondered my mind since I returned the response to Martin. What of my duty Martin set me on? To ask aid in the South, I had done so. Here next to me stood the outcome of my task. Watcher nodded with a content smile, saying that I had done my task with a fine result. I was glad to hear it. He then accepted my original proposal I asked in my letter weeks ago. I now could stay in the Temple and serve him and The Watcher. Between my future duties I was to offer my help to the Knights present, when they traveled the lands North. I accepted with a warm heart, it was good to serve the faith once more and not pay for a room in the inn.

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Entry IX

I have been busy lately patrolling the roads North of the Gate. The roads and lands are wild and untamed. The dukes should make more effort to make their lans safe rather than focus on the ecomony, but such is their will I assume. I have slain countless bugbears, trolls, ogres and worse on my journies an there seems to be no end to their number and boldness. While I think my effort seems to have little change in the large picture, if only one tralevers life is saved and secure because of my actions, it has been worth it. I will continue to my duty as I have until now. Wathcer Martin has been busy with his duty in the temple, offering little directions or orders for me. I will not bother him myself, I'm sure he will turn to me if he has special task or orders for me to do. I'm thankful I can always retire for some earned rest in the Temple Quarters.

There is a situation in the North that includes the Everwatch Knights. Apparently a village called Farhill is threated by a large an vicious tribe of ogres. The beasts have set their eye on the grainstorage the village have and attempt to take it by force if not given to them. The Everwatch Knights have made an effort to arm the men of the village and fortify the palisade surrouniding it. I have had too little time to offer my support on these troubles, but I will try to extend it further. The village approaced Martin, so I can't feel but obligated to help when people call for help from the Temple. Helm willing I will see the village secure and the ogres done.

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Entry X

A few days ago I left a message for Valdore in the Temple of The Shield, regarding Farhill. I have had too little time to assist the Everwatch Knights in the matter and I thought I had to let Martin know. He was busy as always performing his many duties at the end of the Hall. I quietly left the parchment on the pedestal and made my way to the Temple private quarters for some earned rest. It took a few days before I got a response from him. Man must be burndened with work. In it was Watcher told me that the situation in Farhill had eased and the ogres had been dealth with. The Everwatch Knights had fought off an attack of the ogres on Farhill along with the village new and green militia and some other allies. They had been successful and driven the ogres on the run and proceeded to chace them to their hideout. There they had confronted Kosho, the ogre magi in lead, and defeated him once and for all. All that remained now was just some straglers of the main force. Village of Farhill was now safe and the situation had cooled down. A news that warmed my heart. They had remained in the village to train the militia further so they could watch over the settlement themselves in the future.

It was now that Valdore charged me with another duty. He wanted me to offer escort to the increasing number of pilgrims that make their way to Nashkel, to gaze and see the place where The Watcher himself once stood. The very same pilgimage me and Sir Orin made some time ago before the troubles in Farhill. My duty would consist of the journey there and give them escort back to Baldur's Gate if needed and visa versa. All other times I am to patrol the said road and the lands North and around of The Gate. I gladly accpeted this Holy Duty and I shall see it done.

A letter has been tucked between the page.


Before setting to this duty I was to attend to a celebration in Farhill. Wai Li had invited all knights, allies and friends alike to a celebrate the victory in Farhill. I was curious so I attended. We made with a caravan to the village from Baldur's Gate farmlands with a merry spirit and when we arrived to the site the people were thrilled to see the knights coming back along with us. There had been some damage to the property around the village, but the repairs seemed to be well on the way. I only stayed to hear the speeches of Headman of the village and more inspiring speach of Wai Li. Then I felt like my duty awaited and left those to celebrate that had made it possible.

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Entry XI

The escort duty Martin charged me with has gone good so far. I'm glad to see so many folks taking the same pilgrim I have done so many times now. There is a large number of ordinary folk wishing to make the trip to the site where The Watcher himself once stood vigilantly. At the same time I can keep my eye on the road between Baldur's Gate and Nashkel. The Bandits and monsters are still too numerous to my liking. It was during my patrol the other day that I met Wai Li at Friendly Arm Inn. I was just heading towards The Gate when I ran into her outside the Inn on the road. A pleasent encounted as I learned that Farhill was finally in peace and that the bandits threat had been deal with by the The Everwatch Knights. The people now had time to consentrate on the rebuilding effort and the getting back to ordinary life. She also told me of sermons held at Nashkel in honor of Helm in a place where he once stood. I had not catched one yet, I will have to see it myself next time I make the trip back south.

Today, to my great suprise, I ran into Cecilia. It has been a long time since I last saw her. We talked of lenght in front of the East Gate District cathcing on to what had transpired for us since we last met. After time of talk she asked me to follow her through the gate into the city. She lead me to the bulletinboard of the district. There she had written a leaftet, where she declared people to be followers and members of the Zhentarim. She learned this information while she was captured by them in the North. I read the list through when two names caught me eye and my face turned sour. Isaac and Lucy. My head rushed with confused and betrayed feelings. To think I once stood and followed the commands of these two, held them in high regard. Two mere puppets of this evil organization. People can be so.. Untrustworthy.

Before coming to the Gate I had seen a leaflet on the Trade Way, claiming The Radiant Heart had been aiding drow. The leaflet bore no signature or signing, so I took it as a false. Still I had to ask of this from her and she did tell me what had happened. One of the orders squires called Ronin had gone down to the Underdark on his own initive, a long story she told. Two days ago he, some freed slaves and some drow were brought to the farmlands otside of Baldur's Gate via portal. The drow were beaten back and the farmlands secured to my great relief. The fool squire was trialed and found guilty for aiding drow and is now in custody of the order. Cecilia asked if I wanted to talk to him about his faith at some point. Since he claimed to have done this beacuse of his faith in The Watcher. No Helmite would ever place the realms in such a risk as he did, so maybe I will talk if the situation allows it. Apparently one of the drow managed to draw a rune that enables these monsters to errect a portal again back to the farmlans. This is my greatest concern and it is a dire threath to the whole region. For all we know they could be amassing an large assault or worse thought this portal right as I write this. I need to let Martin, Nashkel and The Everwatch know of this. More over the freed slaves are now held at the farmlands in a camp on the other side of Wyrm's Crossing. The ilmatari and The Fists are apparently keeping an eye on them. What worries me is that Cecilia told they are sick or ill, I hope whatever they have won't spread. I have much to do.

[=Thunderbolt=]

Entry XII

It has been too long since I gazed on these pages. Indeed I had to read it through to refresh my memory of its content. To be reminded of things past, both painful and cheerful. I have had little to think these past months besides my capture. It still chills my bones just recalling all those long days down in the dark caves. All the screams of agony of those people, right in front of me. My dreams are haunted by their faces and I think it will be a long time before I can sleep well again. My wrists still bare the signs of chains and I'm still recovering physicly and mentaly. Physicly I'm well on the mend, this inn have taken care of me well. I was lucky the bandits had not spent my gold, but stashed it away with the rest of my equitment and belongings. I doubt the innkeeper had seen to all my needs for free. Mentaly I'm still a wreck. I don't think I'll ever get over my failure. These people I promised to protect now lay dead in some unmarked grave or burned to ashes. I never thought anyone would be so cruel and sick as was our capturer. The leader of the bandit band. His words still chill my soul when I think of them.
"I'm going to kill all these people and I'll do it in front of you. You are going to see it all and then I'll kill you."
Those words are burned in my mind forever. Like a tattoo. It is as if this man knew who I was and how to torment me the most cruel way possible. They must have figured out my believes from my things they took away. I pray to Helm daily, asking for resolution on these memories. Perhaps I should seek a priest to talk to. Perhaps Valdore. None of the people I was suppose to look after survived.. None.

A company of six travelers approached me right before I was leaving towards North from Baldur's Gate. They asked if I was for hire, probably judging from my equiptment and my swords. I told them I could see them to their destination safely and without cost. They were mere commoners traveling towards Daggerford. I agreed to take them there. They would not have made it past the fields and troll hills on their own. None of them had ever seen any action. We departured after a moment of talk and planning towards Daggerford along the road. It was near the border of High Moor on the Trade Way when a group of bandits came out of hiding and blocked our path. They demanded all of our valuables and arms to be handed over. Of course I did not agree as there were only three of them. I had put some safe distance between myself and the others and was ready to engage the bandits. It turned out to be a fatal mistake. Right when I drew my sword and told them to leave the bandit leader made a loud whistle. At that sign a larger group of the band rushed from the bushes towards the commoners behind me. When I turned around all my fellow travelers were held a blade against their throats. I sighed at my own stupidity. I should have been more careful. I then turned back at the three in front of me. They looked at me under their covered faces and then the leader again made the same request.
"Hand over over everything or your friends die."
I had no choice. I didn't want to risk to test wheter they were serious. By the looks of them I thougth they were real highwaymen. I dropped my sword and shield with a bitter grunt. The leader then told me to raise my hands above my head, turn around and get on my knees. I did so after a moment of glare on the man. It was not long until I heard the three walk towards me and then I was struck and all went dark.

I woke up in a damp and dark cave. I was wearing only the clothes that I had on me. My armor and everything else had been taken away. The chamber was pitch dark and cold. I was in chains and could not move. All I could do was sit there and wait in confusion. I waited and waited, I'm not sure how long but it felt like an eternity. Then a light shine in the corridor ahead of me, playing on the rough walls of the cave. The leader of the band came in and looked upon me holding a lit torch. I could not look at him as the light hurt my eyes. As my eyes adjusted to the light I could see he still had his face covered. He standed there a moment and then looked back to the corridor with a shout. Moment later another man dragged one of the commoners in front of me. Her hands were bound and they dropped her on the floor. He holded a dagger on her throat, I could see fear in the womans eyes. After a moment of silence the bandit leader said what he would do to her and the other man removed a cloth that muffled her. She cried out loud.
"No, no! Please!"
She was then cut short as her throat was slit. She desperately looked at me and I stared at the scene in terror and disbelieve. As she dropped on the floor I shouted at the men.
"You cowards! You ruthless bastards!"
The two men standed there a moment, letting the blood fill a pool on the floor. They then picked up the corpse and dragged her from the room and left without a word. I was left in the dark again in agony and fear of this quick and terrible moment.
I must have been down in the dark a month. The bandits brought me some water and food to keep me alive. They also brought in all the travelers I was suppose to protect and all were cut and killed in the same fashion as the first woman. After the last man I was sure my time would come next and prepared myself to meet my end. I was sure I wasn't going to live for much longer. My spirit was broken, if this was my capturer intent they had succeeded.

I lay on the cold stone floor when I hear shouting and sounds of battle in the corridor ahead of me. I'm too weak to sit anymore. I had not gotten any water or food for sometime now. I just lay there and stare at the corridor trying to keep myself awake. I loose it moments later when I see light on the corridor and a figure rushing towards me with a raised weapon. At that image I loose my consciousness. Next time I awake I see the sun and the sky. Smell fresh air and see a figure of a man sitting next to me. I was rescued by a adventurer band that had been paid by duke of Daggerford to track this band of bandits. The group had been causing trouble on the road for quiet awhile and they were all wanted men. The leader of the adventurer group was called Talmen. He explained what have happened, who they all were and how they had tracked down the group to a cave and stormed it, taking the bandit band by suprise. They were all now dead. They had found my equiptment and promised to return all of them back to me. Unfortuately they had seen none of the belongings of the commoners I traveled with. He told me we were heading towards Daggerford to collect the bounty.Once we arrived I gave them half my gold as reward and we headed to this inn with Talmen. We talked in lenght of what had happened to me and my companions. He was sicken by the events as much as I was. He then left me in the room to recover.

I think I will soon head back to Baldur's Gate, it is high time.

[=Thunderbolt=]

Entry XIII

I finally returned to the coast after a long treck along the Trade Way. I had fully recovered and said farewells to the dwarf innkeeper in Dragonback Inn and some aquitances I made on my short time there. It took me several days journey as I made my way straight to Baldur's Gate from Daggerford. The whole journey I kept my eyes on the roadside, especially during dark hours. The journey went quiet and without trouble with only a few caravans and people passing by. Despite my unrested senses I once again had time to ponder and think through the events of the past months. Indeed I had gone through them in my mind several times on the days I was recovering in Daggerford. I know I failed all those people. My carelessness had been their doom. If I would just checked the roadside bushes. An amature mistake. They were a group of nine outlaws in total. I have fought bigger number of thugs and prevailed. At least I could have tried and fail honorably in a battle rather than let them outwit me so easily! I have prayed daily asking guidance on these feelings from The Wathcer, but he has given me no answers. Perhaps rightfully so. Maybe I need to get back to my Helmite duty and try to atone this terrible event in my life. I find it hard to find the courage to do so. I keep thinking ahat if I fail again. I think I need badly share this feelings and events with someone like minded and as soon as possible.

Once I returned to the Gate I made my way straight to the The Temple of The Shield and left a message for Valdore saying I had returned to the city. I stayed a few days, though not in the temple. I felt somewhat ashamed to even be there. I left offering to the altar and left to rent a room for a night in Elfsong Tavern. I stayed there the night and left for Nashkel to deliver a message of my return to The House of The Guardian. Even there I felt the same sensation of shame and only could leave a open letter to the paladin guard. I made my way back to Baldur's Gate the following days and retutrned to Elfsong Tavern. I didn't meet any familiar faces on my way. I can only hope Watcher Valdore or someone else is able to help me with this situation.

[=Thunderbolt=]

Entry XIV

Today I ran into an old friend of mine when I was leaving Maltz Shop. A member of the Everwatch Knights, Drew. In fact I soon found out that he had left the Everwatch Knights by his own decision. Apparently thee Knights and the Church in Nashkel had made some questinable desicions when I was captured and not present here on the coast. We made our way to the Temple of The Shield to discuss this further. I did not say it, but I had been avoiding the streets because of the new sickness that was spreading in the docks. Apparently some gnome had raided an old tomb and carried a disease to the city with him. He was now in quarintine in a ship just outside the harbor, but it seems this has not worked. I hear constantly more and more news of the infected and the dead count raising higher every day. The docks are in a quarintine now, but it seems the sickness has not spread to other parts of the city yet. This is a issue I must discuss with Martin at some point.
When we arrived in the temple we made it straght to the private quarter. He told me in leght what had happened within the Church and Knigts. The church had allowed the summoning of a demon to find a location of a certain sword of Power, called Sventar. The nature of this sword is still a mystery to me, but it seems Drew and I agreed it was the source of corruption wihtin the Everwatch and the clerigy. The Knights had been involved in politics and asked drew to ally himself with cult of Malar and The Bitch Queen to fight Talassans. I couldn't believe what I was hearing and first thought he was telling lies, but they were not lies at all. Drew made a journey to see The Great Helm himself and to report the Nashkel church to him. He was tasked to find The order of Vigilant Eyes here in the coast. Curently he has no members other than himself. It was interesting to hear, perhaps I should give it some thought myself as he asked me to join him. I told him what had happened to me during my absence and he shared wisdom with me. It made me question the situation and understand that while I let those people down, I should try to make emends rather than soak on my misery. It is in fact the only solution to my feelings, that I know now. I will meet Martin in two days time to dicusss my feelings and the issue of sickness. I invited Drew aswell to our discussion. He bases his own operation Here in the Gate aswell. I hope this talk will give us wisdom for the coming days.

[=Thunderbolt=]

Entry XV

I have woken up in the middle of the night to a same strange nightmare. It have occured every night for the past few days. In it I'm back on The Trade Way, walking towards the three bandits that stopped us. After the dreadful few steps that I took, I turn around looking the others with me. The horrizon and the surroundigs are shrouded in shadow and dark, but the road is not. In the darkness beyond the group I can see a silhouette of a large man, looking at the scene from afar. I cannot regonize the man, it could be anyone. He just stand there still with crossed arms, observing. Then the bandits storm out from the bushes towrards the group. A scene which in reality took a few seconds now slows down dramaticly. The helpless commoners retreat at the sight of the bandits tigthly against one another. The slowed scene is otherwise silent, but I can hear the fearfull cries of help. The bandits sprint at them pulling them to their arms with force and hold knifes on their throats. I look at them helpless and freezed like I did back then in reality. I then turn at the three bandits. One of them orders me on my knees and to face the opposite direction. Unlike what really happened, the bandits and the captured travelers now look at me in silence. My eyes turn to the dark man in the distance. He stares at me still, his arms crossed. Then the outlaws slit the throats of my fellow travelers. At that instant the dark silhouette lowers his head and gazes down, ashamed. At that moment I'm struck to my backhead and the scene vanishes.

Immediatly after this the scene repeats up until I turn to look at the commoners. When I look at them the scene is identical, expect one thing. They are armed. All of them have some form of weapon resting at their belt. The same silhouette looks at the scene with crossed arms, still holding his head up. Then the bandits storm from the bushes to suprise the group. They suprise yes, but then they don't retreat. Instead they yell a warcry and draw their arms. Rusty daggers, short sword, maul and mace. The weapons are worm and not well made. Despite this they assault the sprinting bandits hacking wildly clearly with no training. Some of them the bandits cut down, but some commoners land a lucky and lethal blow on them. In the end of the group of six three are alive, but the outlaws lay dead on the ground. The remaining group look at me, covered in blood, but still standing and alive. The dark figure in the distance doesn't lower his head, but looks at me with pride. I then turn around to the three bandits and draw my sword. I charge and dispatch them easily. Then wake up.

I'm not sure if this even is a nightmare. It certainly in the end doesn't feel like it. I remeber the dream clearly it feels.. Real. I think I need to ponder this deeply.