Excerpts from the journal of Mike Steel

Goodmonth 23rd, 574 CY: Pawford, the Stony Gaze Tavern

We have lost a full day or more in our pursuit of Red James, but the bandit is now safely in the hands of the Pawford Guard. After his escape we tracked him day and night until we came upon him just before dawn. Unwilling to let him flee once more, Kobort on his warhorse immediately charged. There was no battle; James was as exhausted as we were and he fell to Kobort's first blow. We secured him to Kobort's horse and trudged back to Pawford, which we had hoped to bypass on our trip to Pitchfield.

Yet, our encounter with Red James has given us some information that may be of use. He had connections with the Ring of Iron, a name we have heard before. He confirmed that they work out of the Great Kingdom and said that they have contacts in the New Keep merchants guild and in Naerie. They deal with slavers in the Azure Sea. It may be that we can discover what happened to the people who were taken from Seblingham.

We leave at first light for Pitchfield and hope for a quick journey.

Goodmonth 24th, 574 CY: Dunn, the Shining Axe Tavern

Today we had the good fortune to pass a caravan of dwarves. My father's third cousin was among them and I was glad to hear that all is well at home. My family will be disappointed that I will not be there for Brewfest, but I have promised that we will travel to the Glorioles soon afterward. The roads are peaceful, and are well patrolled by the Knights of the Order of the Iron Circle.

Unfortunately, Wrye was close enough to overhear one of my cousin's comments, and he has started calling me "Fuzz." I am comforted by the fact that the beer is excellent here, and Thanmar is an excellent proprietor. Kespin and I have agreed to sample his stock this evening.

Goodmonth 24th, 574 CY: Late Evening

History's shadows flow over our deeds
The future shall tell our full measure apace
Beyond us we see the fog of war
Great evil rises all around
By this shall we tell the worth of our strife.

Goodmonth 25th, 574 CY: Dunn, the Shining Axe Tavern

Thanmar's Hangover Cure
1 pt. good ale
Thanmar's "secret" herbs, probably oregano and hot pepper?
1 egg (unknown kind, large and purplish-brown)
half loaf of stale dark bread
2 shots vinegar
1 gold sovereign coin