As I approached the far end of the park with the temple on my left and the shrine just a bit further hidden behind the temple, I could see my traveling companions, The Trim Troupe, coming down the road to meet me at the temple. I continued to look about to see if there were anything out of sorts and found nothing that should cause me any concern. Now I had rounded enough to be able to get my first glimpse of the shrine and the clerics assembled to begin their morning journey. They were chatting peaceably among themselves and now taking note of who was approaching their company. One of them nudged Joseph on the arm and pointed my way. The other clerics turned to look my way. I held up my free hand to wave at them and stepped onto the road from the park.
A soldier was there with our cart and my horse was likewise waiting. Everything was in order and we had a fine day ahead of us according to the sky. Dravist was talking to the clerics and Vallen was being very attentive to their conversation. Gillfort was mildly interested in their talk but Jackwon wasn’t the leastwise interested in it. I noted the things in the carts to make sure I had the right one picked out for us. I gently placed my sack in the back of our cart and turned to greet the clerics. They were all in good spirits. I mentioned that since we were going to use the road for a spell we would be better off traveling with the cleric on his way to Pine Mill. Joseph smiled and said, “We will be glad to have you join us.” I replied to everyone, “We have far to go so I must, with regret, cut our farewells short and begin our journey to the wood.” I shook hands with all the clerics and grabbed the reigns of my horse to lead him up the road out of town. Vallen had Gillfort lead our mule and the rest of them followed along on foot between me and the cart.
Joseph and Manahem followed our cart with their own. We passed the guards at the edge of town and they greeted me warmly as we passed. On the other side of the town wall I mounted my horse. It was more for the ability to see further from atop the horse as it was for any other reason. Being on the horse allowed me to ride ahead and look about and then ride back to talk. After my first experience I was going to make sure and not become lazy but remain vigilant. After a short way I rode ahead and had a good look around and then rode back. I dismounted my horse and led him by the reigns again. I talked with Vallen first.
“How did you come to be in Maples?” I asked. He replied, “We heard rumors that there was a treasure in a cave collected by some beast that was menacing the town. By all accounts we would have been more than a match for the beast and we thought it sounded like our best option to earn coin to fund our travels.” I replied, “I guess you learned about that ploy then?” And Vallen replied, “My lord?” He had not, and hadn’t figured out how many small town leaders would entice some adventurers to come and manage a problem for them at a cut rate. The ploy was to entice a group with some story of much riches for little risk and effort. Once the adventurers were in town they didn’t want to leave empty handed so it wasn’t so hard to get them to do something a bit more hazardous. For the effort they put in to killing the bugbear and kobolds, they may well have earned the same coin in the same amount of time just serving as guards for a caravan. I explained this to Vallen, delicately so he wouldn’t think I was making him feel as a child. When I was done, he paused and then replied, “I see.” I wanted to make him feel better, “But if you hear a similar story someday in the future you can think that you might find a real adventure instead of a bear hibernating in his cave.”
I rode ahead and looked about from a rise in the terrain and then rode back again. I dismounted and asked Vallen if he was familiar with riding a horse. He said he was but unfortunately his armor was a bit heavier than my horse should carry. I had not thought about that having never worn heavy armor myself. I stepped over to talk to Gillfort. I asked him what sort of druid he was, since there were so many more than I knew. He said that his order believes in setting up a natural shrine and tapping into the energy of nature through devoted prayers and careful tending of the garden area at the shrine. They almost always sought to grow holly as a feature of their shrine but it wasn’t the focus of the shrine. The shrine would be created as a reflection of the naturally beautiful things in the area already. One feature of their shrines would be the need for a cleared space to allow some sunlight in during the day. They did not want a place that stayed in the shadow of the leaves all the time.
I asked him what manner of druid he would expect to find in the oak forest where we were headed, if everything was as it was described to me. He said he didn’t really know but he had a few ideas. They could be dedicated to the spirit of the oak so they would want to make the forest a paradise for oak trees. In this case they would need to purge the forest of habitat for the sorts of insects that harm oaks and create habitat that benefitted the trees and themselves. They would try to open up the forest floor so the oaks could grow to their full potential and they would need enough room for the light each tree would want.
They might be more generally minded toward plants and then wish to create a good balance of flora. They would wish to again dispel habitat that encouraged certain insects but they would create a more varied ecology allowing for grasses to yield to pines, which would then yield to broad leaf plants and so on. A more aesthetically minded group may wish to create a garden from the forest. In this case ornamental trees would be found in abundance along with bushes and other shrubs.
Another, very unlikely variety of druid, finds beauty in evergreens. They are often very powerful because they always have an abundance of holly, the most powerful plant spirit that feeds the magic of the druids. They are often also very crafty because evergreens can grow thick among one another while broad leaf plants must spread out. The thick growth allows the druids to hide and use the plant spirits to entangle adversaries. But he opined that such a group was very unlikely to wish to begin with an oak forest to begin their work, although a powerful druid of their order may have sent them to the task as a pilgrimage in the wilderness; after all it is in your point of view what a wilderness really is. He concluded that if he were to find clues about the druids he would say something. I gave my excuses and rode out to have another look.
On the next rise I could see we were making good time. We were beginning to approach the spot where I fought my storied battle. I was going to have my new friends see the place where the battle occurred and tell of the event on the ground where it happened. It wouldn’t be much longer. I rode back to talk with Joseph and Manahem. They were in good spirits and talking as I approached. I slowed my horse and then dismounted to lead him again as I walked and talked. Joseph was telling Manahem about the people that lived in Pine Mill. He wanted to share their stories since Manahem would be making the trip to check on them and drop off supplies. I asked Manahem where he was raised and he said he was raised in Jinngoton, south of Stonebridge. I asked about the area and what his family did to earn money. He said the area was also wooded but was quite a bit more hilly than Stonebridge or Pines Mill. He said his father was a smith in the mill town making all manner of tools supporting the lumber jacks and mill workers as well as the community at large with lanterns, grills and other household goods. He was considered quite an artist for making iron fence, but little of his work was found in Jinngoton because it was too much a luxury for the townsfolk because iron was in short supply. And we approached the spot where I stopped the wagon before so I did so again.
I said, “Friends, this is the spot where it happened. My friend Joseph and I were walking and talking along this path just as we are today and I noticed through that space between the mounds a flock of birds take wing between here and the wood line. There being no appreciable wind or apparent reason for the birds to abandon their breakfast I took careful note to see what the unapparent reason might be. Then I saw the men approaching as they broke the shade of the trees and I could see they were approaching in a line abreast spaced more than a span apart, a formation I knew to be an unnatural way for men to move; a formation of men going into battle. I said something to Joseph and he retrieved his mace and made himself ready while I scanned the field. I counted the men at eight and watched how they moved. They all continued to move forward together in a coordinated manner indicating they were used to such and also indicating they likely had no archers among them. I looked at the men in the middle and picked out their leader easily for he was the only one wearing armor although a few of the others wore a piece. Their leader was dressed in leather armor with pauldrons and bracers.
I stopped them with a word at about fifteen paces. I chose fifteen paces because Joseph said he had a good spell at that range and he didn’t disappoint in that. I also chose fifteen paces because it was a distance where I might be able to engage one man before a second man could overrun me. I wasn’t sure but I thought we may have to retreat to the wagon to afford some protection for our flanks. Well the leader was brash, no doubt why he was their leader, a man of action. A shame really; for if he were a little more industrious, patient and respectful of others he could have been a leader in the militia or some such noble pursuit. But his laziness and impetuous manner led him to his life of crime.
“Well Joseph’s spell burned up the middle six of them, outright killing two of them, and this led to the first two bandits meeting each of us in single combat. Being bandits, rash and untrained, we each managed our own opponent, why right here and there. While this happened the other bandits were recovering up here.” I walked over to the spot where they had been set aflame. “I faced the bandit leader from where you’re standing and he was here so that I had to move uphill to him. I scared his brothers away, which isn’t so much as there is no honor among thieves. He was forced to face me alone. I believed if I killed him the others would have no more stomach for this fight. As I moved to close the distance I could see his leg had taken a bad burn and I thought to exploit that. I approached and jumped quickly to my right, away from his sword arm. He had trouble with his feet as I hoped he would and I lunged in to catch him with a stroke piercing his upper left arm. He raised his sword hand over to the wound in a natural reaction to the pain which exposed his whole right side. With my dagger in my left hand I pulled back on my sword and pivoted my hips which brought my dagger to his side under the ribs when I pressed in and down on the handle forcing the blade in and up. He immediately melted to the ground unable to stand and as my blade came free his blood poured and spewed all over me. Without regard for that I stepped back clear and brought my weapons up ready for the next attacker, but they were already walking back away from us. Joseph called out for them to surrender and he would heal them but they ran off.”
I bowed and said, “That’s how and where it happened.” And they looked on with approving nods. Then I said, “And this is where we part company from our friends of the Order. Joseph, Manahem, have you need of anything before we go?” And Joseph replied, “Bene, we will be fine, thank you.” I strode down to the group and clasped hands with the two of them and stepped away to take hold of the reigns of my horse. The others also in turn shook hands with our friends and waved them on. “This way, men.” And I led my horse up the slope toward the woods. At the top I scanned the ground in front of me. My escort was learning how to lead their mule off the path. They got into the rhythm of things and we continued northeast through a meadow. To my front was a large stand of trees. To my left was more meadow and my right was more meadow as well. This area had not been farmed in some time. Not knowing how thick the trees would be I guided our path favoring east a little in case going around the trees was the better choice. The cart would be a problem if the undergrowth was thick enough.
As we got closer to the trees I could see the undergrowth was indeed thick. I mounted my horse and told the party to continue around the edge of the woods as they were already and I would ride ahead and see if there were a good route for us. I rode ahead and out of their sight as I rounded the edge of the wood curving to me left. I found something I didn’t wish to find; the remains of the bandit camp and the three bandits that ran away. They had walked back to their camp and tried to nurse their wounds but they were unsuccessful. Some animals had already been by to feast on them; probably wolves, badgers and carrion fowl. A buzzard took flight as I approached and I had to pull something from my saddlebag to tie over my nose and mouth for the smell. My horse was unsettled so I led him away a bit and dismounted. Then I walked over to the campsite to inspect the bodies for any clues to their habits.
I pulled on their belts and retrieved their pouches and I looked about for any other containers that might have notes or trinkets that might help me make a connection to their past. There were no containers I could find. I checked in their tents and under the tarps and found nothing more of consequence. I did find three more beds, for eleven total, so there were three other companions in the party. I suspect they were women that stayed with these men and they carted off everything of value they could carry when the men died. There were many things missing from the campsite you would expect to find such as cookware and lanterns. I pulled down three tarps and brought them to my horse so I could bring them to the cart. If the weather changed we might be very glad to have them.
Inside the pouches I found only a few copper coins from the region and one trinket; a small wooden carving of a bear. It was a crude piece but I put it in my saddlebag anyway. There was also a crude map of the area with a note on the reverse side written by someone that signed the note Verogrim. The note read:
Marogred,
I know someday this map will make its way to you. I have hidden the key deep in the Dark Wood where only fools would look. Once you have it, take it to Malthinines' old stronghold. Remember the foot-eared dwellers. Next, remember the second parchment you will need is covered in water, yet it never loses its ink. Finally, as a friend, I tell you a cart will be necessary and four directions must be gathered to carry it. Know the winds and you will find the treasure. - Verogrim
I mounted my horse and looked about at the terrain for the right way to bring the cart. I spurred my horse and we headed back to the party. I told them I had found the bandit’s camp and they were dead or gone and handed down the tarps to be placed in the cart saying, “I hope we don’t need these but it would be nice to have them if we do.” Then I told them we should swing wide to the right of their camp and then turn north for a spell. I told them I would ride ahead and do a bit more reconnaissance. And with that I turned my horse to have another look.
I followed the course I wanted my companions to take. We were about an hour from the noon so I wanted to find a spot for us to have our noon meal. This would particularly include consideration for water. We should either have water at the place or be within an hour of the water so we may top off our containers after using what we carried. The best path for the cart would involve as little change in elevation as we might manage, but we could not take a path along a steep slope even if we were following the contour of the land for the cart would not ride well. I decided to ride up the low rise where I was and have a look around.
On top of the rise I could see much better how the land rose and fell. There were meadows and small stands of trees all about. There was no sign of cultivated land or a settlement; not even a lone dwelling. From my vantage point it appeared if we stayed on the course I had roughly intended earlier we would have easy going with the cart for the slopes were gentle enough. I wasn’t sure how much farther we would get in an hour so I rode ahead to find some water, and then I would ride back to ‘catch up’ with my party.
I rode on and could see clearly the carrion off to my left as they descended from the trees to feast on the three dead bandits. I could not see any flocks of birds in the air, only an occasional small bird on his way somewhere. The sky was a soft blue, a little vapor in the air softening the sky from the intense color it shared on the brightest days. There were wisps of clouds here and there but the sun shone brightly and it was becoming a warm day. I led my horse down the slope expecting to find water, either a small brook or a pool in the low area.
Close to the base of the hill there was a small brook heading north and east. The brook contained large and small stones that either rolled downhill or were uncovered by the water when the flow was swift. I wanted to give my horse a drink so I followed the flow to find a spot where the approach was gentle. This would also be the spot where I planned to cross the stream later. We rounded a mound and saw a pool just as I expected to find, but around the pool were a number of animals, a herd of some meadow grazing four footed beasts. I thought how different Jackwon and Gillfort might feel about running across such a scene. For now, I wanted only to give my horse a break. We rode slowly to the pool.
One of the beasts raised its head and must have noticed our movement for he let out a grunt and turned to trot away. The other members of his herd raised their heads, grunted in similar fashion and followed along after. I counted at least twenty of them. We approached and the land gave way gently to the water’s edge. My horse dipped his head and smelled the water and then took a few steps into it and had a good drink. I leaned back and had a good look around. There was evidence of some rodents that inhabited the prairie land here and there. A number of song birds were drinking and splashing about on the far bank. Everything was quite calm so I decided to come down and wash my face and have a drink as well.
I eased my horse out of the water and dismounted. I gave the bridle a little tug indicating to my horse he could return to his drinking. I walked a few paces up stream and knelt down on one knee so I might scoop water into my hand. I washed and had several handfuls of water to drink. I stood up and looked at the brook. It was sandy at the bottom and there were many rocks along the edge and in the water causing it to have a vibrant trickling water sound. It was hypnotizing and in the quiet seemed to drown out all other sounds. It reminded me of many afternoons in the area where I grew up.
I mounted my horse and we turned back to find my companions. On the way back my mind wandered and I thought how they needed to find a new name because the Troupe was unspectacular, a cliché and unworthy of Vallen and Jackwon. Both of these men had glorious stories to be written of their deeds and I thought I might have to correct that oversite. I eased my horse up a slope to my left so that I might have a good look around. I expected to see my companions if I could only climb to the right vantage point.
At the top of the rise I did indeed see them making steady progress. I stood high in the stirrups and waved to them. They waved back to me. I waved a sweeping gesture for them to come my way, and they waved back that they understood. I then eased my horse around and started in the direction of the pool. I looked about and found the nearest stand of trees. I urged my horse into a trot to go gather some firewood. We splashed over the water and up the opposite slope, and then on to the woods; a small stand of trees beyond.
I dismounted and stepped into the wood to gather the sticks I would need to make a fire for our group. The sticks were easy to find so that clearly travelers didn’t come this way often. I didn’t recognize the type of trees in this group and wanted to ask Gillfort about them. There were also squirrels and raccoons and birds nesting in the trees. I could hear their scurrying even if I couldn’t see them. After gather a good armload of wood I mounted my horse, which was not as easy as I would have hoped, and walked back over to the pool. We splashed over the water and I dismounted to make a fire.
I stomped a level spot in the ground and built a fire a respectable distance from the edge of the water. As the flames were really catching the party came within sight of me. Jackwon and Dravist hurried forward and Vallen came a little slower behind. Gillfort continued to lead the mule with the cart. Jackwon called out, “Well at least you’ve been making yourself useful riding along while we walk behind.” He appeared to be hurrying to have a drink and to relieve himself, and Dravist as well. I pointed to the other end of the pool some fifty strides beyond. I said “You can have a drink here but if you need to relieve yourself, Over there. We’re not pissing in our drinking water.” Jackwon hurried past me saying, “Good idea.”
Vallen stepped up and removed his gambeson and his swordbelt and stepped over to the water. I cleared my throat. He said, “I heard you. I just need a drink of water first.” And I smiled. I fussed over the fire and Gillfort walked up. I stood up and asked him to lead the cart a few steps toward the outfall of the pool, and then unhitch the mule and lead him down for a drink next to my horse. Gillfort said, “No problem, my lord.” And he smiled at me as he walked past. The others did their business and had a good drink from the pool. The fire was going well and I stepped over to the cart. I withdrew my sack and then began to see what sort of rations the quartermaster had loaded for us. I found a bag of biscuits and another of preserved meat. There was also a wheel of cheese, which I believe was something special and not part of the normal soldier’s rations. I found a wooden box and checked inside to find the usual cookwear a small group might need. They thought carefully about this for me when they loaded this cart. I was going to make a point of complimenting the sergeant and the quartermaster when I returned.
I picked up what I could carry and left the rest in a neat pile on the ground. Setting down at the fire, I threw in a few more sticks and then set up a stake where we might be able to set a pot to boil water. I filled the kettle and placed it over the fire. As the others were returning I asked them to grab the other bags and bring them over. Jackwon seemed unsettled and I decided I should get straight to it so I asked, “Jackwon, what is bothering you?” He shifted his weight and offered, “Well, on the trail, this is the first time I wasn’t in charge of the campfire and the campsite. These other fellows aren’t so used to living away from their villages and settlements.” I asked, “Well what do you see? Have you any advice?” He replied, “Advice, no, not advice from me. You’re the first city man I’ve seen that could make a campfire without being told what to do.” I replied with a smile, “Well, I suppose I’m not the city man you think I am. You see I grew up in Tahgrum and I spent many days, a week or two at a time in my late teens and early twenties, camping and hunting in the woods just to the north of that town. I am well acquainted with life in the woods.” Jackwon said, “Early twenties? In Tahgrum? Why how old are you?” I smiled and turned my face to look at him. “Jackwon, I am thirty-three. Half Elves live long lives by human standards so it is normal for us to remain home for longer before setting out if we choose.” Jackwon opened his eyes wide. It appeared he was surprised, didn’t know much about other races, and guessed I was quite a bit younger. “Why you don’t look as old as a new man from my village. I’ve heard of Tahgrum. That is near the elves, isn’t it?” And I replied, “Why yes, and that is why I am a half-elf. Our community is a blend of both the elven community to the north and the human community of Confernos.”
I asked the others if they could fill a few buckets of water for our needs and prepared a meal for us. I brewed some tea even though it was a warm day. I had become fond of tea after riding with the caravan and wanted to share that with my friends. Other than the tea we had no need to cook anything but we did pull out some plates and knives to cut the meat and cheese. I wanted them to eat something from the trees so I had selected some peach preserves. We buttered our biscuits and put preserves on them. We separated the meat and had a bit of the salty stuff. We enjoyed some cheese and then the tea. When I poured the tea, I had them wait a moment. I opened my old cloth bag and produced the jar of honey and allowed them to sweeten their tea with the honey. I said “This is my special treat for you on this trip. I purchased the honey just before we left.” Dravist said, “Bene, I’d come along with you anywhere.”
I sat back to enjoy my tea and asked, “How much do you know of this life, being an Adventurer?” Dravist responded, “Well not much more than the adventure we had with those Kobolds and the living outdoors we’ve had most of the rest.” I replied, “I see. How about you, Gillfort?” Gillfort responded, “I know how to live outdoors but I’ve not killed anything before the Kobolds myself. Our wise men would tell stories of ogres, and wild boar and other fantastic beasts. I’ve learned something about being an adventurer from them.” And I turned to Jackwon, “Why I believe with your village you had quite a tradition of hunting and camping. What else do you know about it?” Jackwon said, “Except for the hunt, I’ve not killed anything else either other than the Kobolds. But I did face down a pack of wolves once after a successful hunt. They were not as successful as we and their hunger was their undoing. That is how I came by this cape. The two wolves were killed by me on the trip. I have looked into the eyes of a ravenous beast and did what I had to do.”
Jackwon continued, “It is this talk about dealing with undead in Eros that bothers me. Beasts are one thing for they still have to abide the laws of nature. But the things I have heard about undead are so unnatural. They can move without walking and they can live through being struck full with the sword. But I am bound to face such devils to earn my place in the tribe. I must return with my deeds proven for the sake of the stability of my village. My father did it and he had always told me my day would come as well. His father, my grandfather, had to take power because there was no rightful heir. According to the stories he had to kill four other tribesmen to become chief. If I do not come back an heir, there will be a fight between my uncle, my cousin and me and any other man in the tribe that wishes to become the leader. We are not so numerous that we can waste good warriors on squabbles, but that is our way.”
And it became quiet and I turned to Vallen and nodded my head. Vallen spoke up, “I know of the terrors that adventurers face. Wild beasts are strong but they live for themselves and understand their mortality. I venture those wolves you wear were near their last breath to face you for a meal. They looked at you and knew they were up against a superior foe. They don’t understand bravery. They don’t understand society as we do. In the moment they fight for their belly or their den and their young. They can be persuaded to give up the fight under the right circumstances.”
He went on. “No, the monsters we may face are something else altogether. Undead, yes, they violate nature with their abomination of their creation. They fight with extra-worldly power. But it is their masters that we need to beware of. For their masters command the abdominal power and would turn any of us into one of their servants with pleasure. They are in league with the dark forces that are spoken of in hushed tones in private room by men with stout hearts, and there are tremors in their voices if they speak from experience. And undead are by far not the worst things we could face. Demons, evil giants, trolls, swarms of orucai, golems, dragons, chimera, cyclops, evil drow in their subterranean lairs or even the Drow queen, and enormous spider woman wielding spells and venom. There are many terrors out there. If you walk the path I am on, you will see your share of all these things should I live so long.”
I wanted to bring the mood up again without being flippant. “Well, I shouldn’t think we’ll see anything so fearsome on this trip to visit a few druids. I thought we might have to scare off a bear or something with this cart full of food, but I’m not looking to face down a goblin army.” Having finished my tea, I stood up and stretched. I knelt down and put a few things back in their bags and went to put the cookware away. I asked the other to clean everything up and wash the plates and pack up. I walked over to the cart and placed the bags away. I called for Gillfort to come help with the mule.
We got the mule out of the shallow water and led him back to the cart. Gillfort had a good manner for handling the mule. I asked if that was something from his childhood or from his craft as a druid. He replied it was both. He chose to be a druid because of his affinity with animals and nature. I asked why not a ranger and he replied with an edge of scorn, “Why no, not at all. They are altogether a different sort. They are hunters not caretakers. They live off the land not for the land. You know. You know of the elves and their ways. You understand, don’t you?” And I replied, “Well, I know they are a different bunch from druids. But I don’t have so much experience with druids.” I didn’t tell him I had loads of experience with elven rangers and I especially didn’t want to bring up my friend Flint. As a matter of fact, among the elves I couldn’t recall a single druid. There were plenty of rangers and clerics, the elves even had their sorts of paladins and rogues and wizards. I couldn’t remember ever meeting a druid before I met Gillfort. I suddenly felt that was strange. Surely there were druids that passed through Tahgrum, but I couldn’t recall ever meeting one of them. Perhaps I thought they were a ranger or a cleric.
Everything put away, the mule strapped in, I mounted my horse and said, we should take the cart across the pool over there. I’ll ride ahead and see what path we should take from here. And with that I rode my horse through the pool and up the opposite bank along the path I wanted them to use. I rode ahead to get a good look around. My hope was to reach the edge of the great oak woods before making camp, but I remembered a remark about water being scarce in the wood, so I wanted to take care to manage our water on this trip since we also had the mule to think about.
As I reached the top of the next rise I stopped and looked back to see the party had cleared the pool and were walking steadily with the mule and cart in this direction. I turned to survey the area and selected a course mostly north. With the sun high overhead I urged my horse forward wondering how warm it might be today. There was no sign of a worn path so it appeared there were no usual human travel in the area.
I aimed for the left edge of a stand of trees that filled a low area between a few mounds. I believed there was a pool or spring in that area able to support the trees growth. As I closed the distance I could see these were evergreen trees. A little closer still and I could see a haze hung in the branches. I became curious about this stand of trees. I rode close enough to see the species of trees and gazed into the forest as best I could to see about the animals. Except for a few birds and bird calls I couldn’t identify anything but it appeared quite normal otherwise except for the haze. I thought I smelled wood smoke and wondered if there was a hermit living within. I decided this was far enough away from the party so I decided I would ride back and let them know where we were going.
On the ride back I tried to make sure I had picked out a fairly level path for the cart. When I rounded a slope I could see they had made good progress. I rode down to them and wheeled my horse to walk alongside them. “We’ll head around this rise and follow the contour of the land as best we can. There is a patch of trees I’d like to skirt just to the left side. It looks like there may be a pool of water as the trees lie in a low area. I’m going to run back ahead and have a look. I hear there is little water where I would like for us to camp tonight so finding water on the way may be important. There are signs someone like a hermit may be living in that patch of trees. I’m going to have a look.” And with that I eased my horse forward in a cantor to have a look at the woods. By the time I arrived there, the party would be much closer and I would feel better about it.
Back at the stand of trees I dismounted and tied my horse to a branch of a small tree. I had my weapons and armor so there was nothing I needed from my saddle bags except my small water skin. However, I decided to get my pack and throw that over my shoulders since I had no idea who or what I may find. I stepped into the trees and the light level dropped quickly as did the temperature. I was reminded of how much I enjoyed walking through the trees. Being outside without the sun beating down on me was something I remembered fondly from my youth.
A few strides into the woods and it cleared out because the sun was unable to provide light to the undergrowth. A thick bed of needles also inhibited the growth of many plants. I grabbed a piece of cloth from my pouch and tied it to a branch about eye level. This would help me find my horse on the way out. I walked in further. The ground descended ever so little as I headed forward so that folks without my experience in the wilds growing up would likely not have noticed. I may not have noticed either except I was looking for the pool I thought should be here.
A little further in and the forest floor cleared out even more as the smaller trees gave way to larger trees. I looked about and gaged where the slope was leading me. I turned around to see if I could see any good landmarks to my horse and there was nothing of note. I removed another piece of cloth, a dingy white small sack, and hung that on a branch about eye level again. I moved forward seeking the pool. About forty or fifty feet further I stopped because the smell of smoke was again evident, or maybe it was the smell of burned wood. I tried to gage the wind or draft of air; where was it coming from? I used an outdoorsman’s technique and made a flame, and blew it out quickly. The tiny trail of smoke moved with the draft showing me from which way the smell was coming. I looked in that direction and I was sure there was someone else in these trees with me.
Down slope was in front of me but the smell was coming from my right. Since the smoke smell was more important to my safety, I began heading in that direction. The smell of smoke meant I almost certainly was not up against a wild beast. I was thinking, “Should I just call out or should I prefer to try to remain concealed?” I opted for the latter. I was a woodsman after all and knew how to handle myself in the woods. But I was also in his lair.
Another fifty to seventy feet and I could see the first indications of human evidence. There were two spars lashed to trees ahead. They were about eight to ten feet apart, running parallel. The higher one was a little over my height off the ground and the lower one was about the height of my elbow off the ground. They looked to be five to six inches in width. This was the making of two roof supports. An army on the move would throw a canvass over the two and have a well draining roof that would serve for four days to a week. A settler might be thinking of making a roof of sticks over the supports. A hermit would be doing who knows what with them. For once a man cuts himself off from human contact he becomes something like an animal.
I was standing very still and looking for signs of movement and I was again thinking about calling out. It is one thing to sneak up on someone in the woods, and it is another thing to sneak into someone’s campsite. I decided I’d get a little closer. I also wanted to get another perspective on the spot so I stepped quietly to my left and ahead so I was getting closer to the site and the bottom of the slope where I hoped to find water at the same time. I was now a third closer to the campsite and I could see the spars very well now. Just as I was preparing to stop I was startled by a pair of squirrels that ran up their tree only five or six feet away from me. I looked up at the squirrels and they looked back from a safe height and I imagined a curse for my fright.
I could see the spars well enough but I couldn’t see any other indication of a campsite. I couldn’t see a makeshift roof or a fire ring or any collection of cookware of stockpile of wood or any of the things you find in a campsite. I listened carefully and heard the usual bird songs and an occasional flitter of forest floor as a rodent moved through the needles. I crouched down on one knee and let my pack down. I brought my water skin to my lips and had a drink. I replaced the stopper and listened again. I thought about my options and where this character might be. I figured it could be anywhere but if it were me I would be either checking traps, fetching water or gathering edible plants. My best chance for finding this fellow would be to head to the water and I figured I needed to go that way anyway. I stood and slipped my pack up on my shoulders in one motion and turned to my left. And there he was walking back to the campsite from down slope. I heard him just before I could see him.
I froze and watched him walking. He was about my height with dark skin. His clothes were grey and brown and his hair and beard were as wild as they could be. He wore a hat with a wide brim. He was approaching and headed to my right a little as if the center of the campsite was his goal. He walked easily and was very comfortable in these surroundings. He was carrying a sack over his shoulder. I waited a little and thought about my options. I decided I’d play the bard so I cleared my throat and he froze in his tracks and snapped his head in my direction. Since I was motionless I don’t believe he saw me at first. I called out, “Hello there my friend.” And he found me for sure. He put his sack down and just stared at me. I held my hands out on either side of me so he could see I had nothing in them. He was far enough away that if he charged I could easily draw my rapier.
He just stared and didn’t say anything so I called out again. “Do you speak my language? I am looking for water and thought there should be some over that way”, and I indicated the down slope direction. “Is there water over there?” He straightened up and called back. “You looking for water? In here? Theys water out there.” And he indicated also in the direction of down slope but with a finger pointing. He was indicating some place far way I believed, but mostly he was pointing away from his campsite. I held up my hands in a “what?” gesture and said “I was hoping to be able to get water right here. We have a mule and he will need water today before we get where we are going. [I sort of hedged the truth a little on that] We can’t bring him in here so I was going to bring water to him at the edge of the woods.
He called back, “Well you just go on and git. Go water your mule somewheres else.” I replied, “Hey, I understand you don’t want anyone poking around your campsite …” And with that he hunched down again and grabbed his bag in his hand. “Look friend, I’ve been a woodsman for a time myself. I bet I have something you would like in my pack. Let’s talk.” And I remembered that I had my tocco pouch and some spices. I said, “Do you have a tocco pipe? I have some tocco to share. What do you think? Let’s sit down and talk.”
He started stepping to his left (my right) getting closer to his campsite all the while keeping his attention on me. I dropped my pack back to the ground and knelt down so I could watch him while I retrieved my tocco pouch and pipe. He was getting closer and closer to his campsite slowly and I filled and lit my pipe. He stepped into his campsite, or about where I thought it would be, and I stood up. He dropped his bag and found something he wanted and then began to move in my direction. I just watched him and smoked my pipe.
He cut the distance between us in half and I said, “Well, you best stop right there.” And he stopped. I could see he had a good woodsman’s knife in his right hand and I wasn’t going to let him get so close he could charge me. I put my pipe in the left side of my mouth and I drew my rapier and held it down in an unthreatening manner. “Friend, I’m not sure about your intentions and while I’m looking to have a sit down with you and share some of my spices; for I know a woodsman can gather the food he needs but without spice it can be a dull diet, I’m not going to let you rob me. My friends would not think so much of my woodsman’s skills if I let that happen. Now how about you go put that knife away. I’ve not made any overtures against your life, have I?”
He thought for a moment and I puffed on my pipe. He said, “What kine a spices you got?” I replied, “Well I have plenty of salt, some rosemary, black pepper, mint.” He said, “I ain got no pipe. But you can give me that salt.” I puffed and replied, “No, but I’ll give you some salt if you’ll agree to sit down for a chat. Do you have a pouch for some salt?” He glanced down at his belt and then back at me. “No, I ain got no pouch. But I got a box. C’mon, you.” And he began to back up. I figured I was making some progress, so I followed slowly allowing the distance to stay the same between us.
He backed up all the way into his campsite. He had a small chest there I couldn’t see from a distance. I guessed that might be all his worldly possessions. He knelt by the chest and opened it up while facing my direction. He fished out a small wooden container and tossed it to me. I let it fall to the forest floor. I puffed on my pipe and I knelt down. I said, “Well, you’re going to have to put that knife down before I let go of this.” And I raised my sword hand a little. He put the knife on top of the chest and let it go. I stuck my rapier in the forest floor and reached into my pack while he watched me like a hawk. I produced a small leather pouch and raised the wooden box. I poured a little salt into the box. I put my pouch away. I put the lid onto the box, and I placed the box on the ground at my arms reach.
His eyes flashed and he grabbed his knife, started to stand and said, “Now you just …” And in a flash I was leaping in his direction with my rapier out. Before he could back up, I had my rapier a few inches from the center of his chest. I said, “Look, I’ve had enough of your orders. If I wanted something from you I could have run you through just now. Drop that knife.” And with fear and anger in his expression he let go of the knife. I said, “Take two steps back.” He stepped back. I stepped forward and slowly crouched and picked up his knife. I backed up two steps and I set his knife on the ground immediately next to his chest. I continued, “Now, walk slowly around me to your left. I’m going to let you pick up your box and we’re going to come back here. I’m going to sit down on this chest and you’re going to sit down over there and we’re going to talk. I’ll let you keep the salt for your time. I’ve been a woodsman and I know the value of salt to you. So be happy I’m a generous man. Understand?” He said, “Yes. Yes.” And slowly we did just that. He walked slowly over and picked up his box. Then he walked slowly back. I picked up my pack and came to sit on his chest. He sat some distance from me leaning against a tree.
I put my pack down and stuck my rapier in the forest floor once again. I reopened the conversation. “Good day. I am Bene Timber, a bard from the east. Who are you my dear fellow?” He paused and replied, “I’m Gough.” I asked, “Where are you from, Gough?” He said, “I came from Rottscald.” I replied, “Rottscald? I’ve heard of it. What is it like?” He paused and said, “It’s nothing. Dirty. That’s why I left.” And I asked, “Where’d you go from Rottscald?” He replied, “I went to a couple places. Dirty places. I decided I’d juss come live out here.” I thought about that reply.
“What was your profession before you became a woodsman?” He replied, “I was a carpenter. I was a soldier. Now I’m a, … a woodsman.” I replied, “I see. You grew tired of being a carpenter?” He replied, “Yea.” I said, “You grew tired of being a soldier?” He paused and looked a little over past me and said, “Yea.” At this I figured he was a deserter. He knew some things about soldiering for I could see in the way he moved his feet when we faced off. I could also see that he tied his lashings in a very precise manner. But he wasn’t much of a woodsman, more of a soldier. I wasn’t sure what to do with him. I temporized. “How long have you been out here?” He paused and said, “Coupla years.” I smiled at him, “I’d guess four or five at least with that beard of yours. So what unit were you in, when you were a soldier.” He paused again and looked over past me, and then he said, “I don’t remember.” I smiled even broader, “Don’t remember? Why you know I can’t believe that. Every soldier remembers his unit. And I can see you were pretty good at it. Why look at those lashings? Those were done in a good soldier’s manner. So what unit did you serve in?” He thought for a minute. “I really can’t remember. Five years is a long time.” I stood slowly and stepped to my left. I drew my dagger in my left hand and put my hand on the small chest. I said, “Is the answer in here?”
“Now you juss keep yourself outta my things you thief.” And he rocked forward onto the balls of his feet. I reached for my rapier and said, “Now you just hold on there, Captain. You just ease yourself back down.” And he rolled his weight back and sat. “Now are you going to tell me what I want to know or am I going to have to make this painful for you. I’m pretty sure you’re a deserter. Now I don’t really care. I don’t think the soldiers are missing you too much. So there’s no point in me trying to report you to anybody ‘casue I don’t think they care enough to come up here and find you. But we can be friends. You can do me favors and I can bring you salt if that’s what you’d like. But not if I can’t trust you to tell me the truth. Now which unit did you serve with?” He got mad and blurted out, “I was in the third Bears! Darn poff!” I shook my head with a thin grin. “You fellows like that word around here. The last fellow that called me a poff is dead. I killed him. I didn’t kill him for calling me a poff but I did kill him. Would you like me to show you how I killed him? Do you want your knife back?” He stood up and looked me in the eye. If I had my sword, yea, I’d let you show me how you killed him, or maybe I’d show you something. You’re all talk because you got weapons and armor.”
“Well, you’re right. I do have weapons and armor. And you don’t. And I’ve just about had it with you. So be it. Leave your box of salt right there. C’mon. We’re going. I’ve run out of time anyway.” I motioned for him to walk to my right back where I came from. I was going to lead him out to my horse and then I was going to ride away. He began walking and I followed and guided him back to the edge of the woods, finding my two markers on the way out. Just as I figured, my party was now waiting for me at my horse. I had used up too much time fooling around with this fellow, Gough.
As we broke the cover of the woods, Vallen immediately drew his sword when he saw this pitiful fellow. Jackwon saw he wasn’t carrying any weapons and just stepped forward. I said, “Sorry fellows. I wasted some time talking with this fellow, Gough. He has a campsite in these trees. I thought he might give us some information to help our journey but he isn’t much of a talker, at least to me. Gough, take another five steps over there and sit down.” He walked away from the trees another five steps and sat down with his back to me. I motioned for Vallen to step behind him and I walked around to face him. I motioned for Jackwon to come over by me.
“Gough, would you like me to ask these fellows if they can get the information I want? The information you didn’t want to give to me? Would you give it to them, instead?” Gough said, “So you’d torture and murder me too?” At that, I lost my temper. I made a very quick swipe motion with my rapier and a pile of his unkept hair came down as his hat sailed off to my right. I said, “Torture, maybe, but not murder. I’d just assume tie you to one of these trees and come check on you in a few days. I imagine I’d get anything I wanted from you then.” Gough brushed the hair from his face and head. He looked over to his hat. Then he looked up at me. “OK, what do you want, Bene Timber?” Jackwon broke in and said, “Whew Bene, what have you got here?” I replied, “I believe he is a deserter from the third Bear, whoever the hell they are. This one, Gough here, is full of piss and vinegar.” Vallen exclaimed, “A deserter!” and he stepped closer. I held up my hand, “Well I don’t have proof of that but a trip back to Stonebridge would probably settle that riddle. Gough, where did we leave off?” He replied, “I believe we left off at the part where the Poff wasn’t going to let me have a sword to defend myself.” And Vallen smacked him on the back of his head with his gauntlet.
Vallen said, “Sorry Bene. It was a reflex action. What do you want to do with him?” I replied, “Well, I’m pretty stuck. I don’t have two days to take him back right now. And I don’t want to take him with us. But I’m afraid he has crossed the line and we gotta do something with him, and I know you won’t let us do what either Jackwon or I might want to do. So I guess we’re stuck with him.” At this, Gillfort stepped up and said, “Beg your pardon, my lord, but could we tie him up and have him ride in the cart.” I replied, “Yes, Gillfort, I believe that is exactly what we need to do. I just hate to add this distraction to our travels. OK, let’s tie him up. And I stepped away to my horse and let the others manage that. As they finished up, I picked up his hat and put it on his head. Then I grabbed a coarse sack and pulled it over his head. I asked them, “Tie that secure but don’t let him suffocate. Vallen, can you secure him in the cart? I’d like Jackwon and Gillfort to come back into the woods with me.” Vallen replied, “I’m sure we can get him in the cart for you.” With that I replied, “We won’t be long.”
It was getting late in the afternoon. I was scaling back my plans for where we might sleep tonight. The three of us went into the trees. “Gillfort, tell me what you notice about this stand of trees. Is there anything you notice? You too, Jackwon. I know you’ve spent long days outdoors. Tell me if you notice anything unusual about these trees. He has a campsite over this way. I want to retrieve his stuff and have a look through his things.” We walked to his campsite, picked up the small box and the chest. The three of us had a good look around. We couldn’t find anything else of note and between the three of us we should have found anything that should be found. I mentioned, “He was walking to this campsite from over that way. I believe there is water down there, so he was probably either fetching water or returning from washing off.” Jackwon said, “There’s only half a campsite here. Maybe there is another campsite down further over there.” I said, “Maybe so, but we don’t have time for that. Let’s just take the box and get going.” We walked back out to Vallen and Dravist.
We put the chest in the cart and I kept the salt. I mounted my horse and asked, “Is everyone ready to move?” “Let’s go.” And I urged my horse forward as we guided around the western side of these trees. It was getting late in the afternoon and I was planning on stopping when we found the next pool of water. We didn’t go far to crest the next rise and there appeared to be another brook at the base of this hill. We eased ourselves down the slope and stopped to water the mule and my horse. We all had a good drink and I figured we could make it to the next one. Do up I got on the horse and off we went. We crested another rise and looked out and the land in front of us was very flat and as far off as I could see it appeared there might be the edge of the great woods we were seeking. I thought about it and figured it might be three or four hours to the trees. We had about two hours of good light and another hour of fading light. But the terrain gave no indication of water from here to there.
I turned and faced my party. “I wanted to camp over there tonight. That’s three or four hours from here. It would be dark when we arrived. I’m also not sure there is any water between here and there, and I’m pretty sure there is no water there. Our water is supposed to be about a half day’s journey beyond there. I hate to add a day to our trip by not getting there tonight, but it will be a hard day for us. What do you think?” Jackwon said, “Aw, we can make that. We’ve got water in the cart.” Dravist said, “Whatever you want to do Bene, is OK with me.” Vallen said, “Yes, if you want to make the woods we’re with you.” And Gillfort said, “Yes, and the animals have just finished a good drink. They can make it OK.” I smiled and said, “Alright. Let’s go.” And we started forward.
After the first two hours it looked like we had covered more than half the distance and the light was changing from good light to fading light. I looked back and said, “You fellows just keep coming straight ahead. I’m going to rise ahead and make a fire and pick a site for us. See you when you get there.” And I rode off for the woods quickly. I arrived at the edge of the woods and this was indeed a great oak forest. I dismounted and found a good spot for us. I went into the woods to gather a good armload of firewood. I brought it out and returned twice more. With this healthy stack of sticks, I built a fire which would help the party find me. Unfortunately it would help anyone find me, but I needed to take that chance. Next I broke out some of my kit and began to boil water for tea. A few moments later the party arrived with the cart.
I asked Gillfort to see to the animals. I asked Jackwon to see to our guest. He asked, “Where do you want him?” I scuffed the earth and said, “Right here.” Jackwon laughed a little and said to Gough, “C’mon. You’re not going to like this I figure.” I asked Dravist to get out the cook kit and tonight’s food. I asked Vallen to come over to talk with me. I reached into my saddlebag and found the pouches I picked up from the bandits earlier. I told him I wanted to talk to everyone about this tonight around the fire, but with our guest I didn’t want to share this information. I opened the pouches. “Here’s what I found on the bandits.” Vallen looked at the coins and the bear carving and said, “So what?” Then I showed him the letter and the map. “Hmmm. I guess you don’t know either of these names do you, Bene?” I replied, “No I don’t.” Vallen said, “Looks like quite a riddle. Is this what we’re here for?” I replied, “No, not that. We’re here because of this.” And I showed him my sketch of the pendent.
“I saw this pendent after I arrived in Stonebridge. I asked some of the governor’s men about it and they don’t know anything about it. I showed it to my mentor, Andante; you met him last night. Andante sent me up here to find out if the druids that live in this forest know anything about it. You don’t happen to know anything about a pendent that is shaped like this, do you?” Vallen stroked his chin and replied, “No, my lord, I do not. It doesn’t even relate to anything I’ve been told about.” I replied, “That’s what I figured. Me neither. And we bards are the best educated on lore of this sort in general, so that leads me to conclude this is something very special. So we’re going into the woods to find out about this pendent but this letter puts us right in the thick of things for another mystery. I’m going to need you to keep your eyes and ears open, but don’t talk to the others about it. I need you to know what is going on because I keep having to step away from the party and I may need you to manage them for me if I have to be away too long.” Vallen held his hand to his heart and said, “You can count on me, my lord.” And he bowed his head slightly and then looked up into my face. I nodded and put the things away. We walked over to the campsite.
“Vallen, see if Jackwon needs any help. Dravist, how are you doing?” Dravist replied, “Well my lord, I’m not much of a cook. I got the box down but I don’t know what food to pull out for us.” I looked for a few things in the cart and pulled out what we needed. I said to Dravist, “How are you with tents?” He replied, “About like I am with pots, Bene.” I replied, “Well you gotta learn sometime. Boil water in that pot. We’ll put the dried beans in there and make a porridge. We can throw some meat in and heat it all up and eat it like a stew. It won’t be the tastiest thing but it will give us food in our bellies.” With that Gillfort was finished with the animals. “Gillfort, can you work with Dravist on cooking?” He replied, “Sure, Bene.”
“Vallen, Jackwon, could you fellows set up the tarps for the rest of you? I have my own.” Vallen replied, “Yes, my lord.” And with that the two of them went to get the tentage from the cart. I threw a few more sticks on the fire and got my tent stuff from my horse. I had my tent up in a flash and had a ground cloth down and two blankets. I threw a couple more sticks on the fire and went to retrieve the chest we picked up in Gough’s campsite. I brought it over to the campfire where we had light. I sat on a stout log and opened the chest. I heard Gough say something irreverent. I asked Jackwon, “Jackwon, Vallen won’t do it. Please smack Gough for me.” Jackwon laughed a little and said, “Yes sir.” [Smack] Vallen said, “My lord, please. Don’t mock me so. My vows …” I called back, “You’re right, Vallen. But I’m just a bard. He has the look of a percussion instrument, don’t you think?” Vallen replied, “My lord! Please.” I responded, “OK, I’ll try to do better.”
I looked into the contents of the chest and found, luckily, a mirror. It was a small hand mirror. But that allowed me to reflect the light of the campfire into the chest to have a better look. There was a stone for blades, a knife, fork and spoon, soldier gear type stuff. There was a pouch with many coins. In the main compartment there were two bowls, a smaller and a larger one. There was also a wooden plate. There was a fire making kit and several pieces of leather. There was a pipe, but nothing to smoke. I guess he had smoked his stuff long ago. There was a fine tunic in good condition. This is what he most certainly didn’t want me to find for it confirmed he served in the army, and he wasn’t just a lowly soldier. He had some authority based on the extravagance of this tunic. There were two other street shirts and a pair of cloth pants, socks and gloves. There were no shoes. I guess he had worn out his shoes some time ago. I was still bothered there were no blankets or tarps found among his things, so I believe they were still somewhere in those trees. Then I had a look at his knife. It had a bone handle and was set with three metal pins. It was well made and he kept it in good condition. It was sharp enough to shave with even if he had given up shaving years ago. I wonder if it was to serve as a better disguise or if he just decided it was unnecessary. Except for the tunic there was nothing extraordinary about the contents of the chest. I put everything away and closed the lid. I stood up to check on dinner.
Dinner was coming along. The water had boiled and they had the beans soaking. I asked Gillfort if he knew how to recognize wild onion? He said he sure did. I asked him to get some since there was plenty in the field we crossed. He went off with a lantern. Vallen and Jackwon had finished their tent duty. “Get your mugs fellows. I’ve got some more tea.” They went to their packs and retrieved their drinking mugs. I put some tea leaves in the extra pot and swirled them around. I poured the tea and shared some of my honey. I spelled Dravist and he got his mug and had some tea too. I asked him to add some more water to that pot and we could enjoy some more tea.
Gillfort returned and we added the onion to the beans. We added the meat and after a spell we had enough porridge for all of us. I retrieved a bowl and a spoon from Gough’s box and allowed him to have a serving without any meat. I asked who would feed Gough and Vallen said he would after nobody else volunteered. I went to my stuff and produced my spices including salt and black pepper. We ground up just a tiny bit and sprinkled it over ours. I asked Dravist if he would pray over our meal and give thanks for our safety this day. Dravist did just that. Vallen walked over with Gough’s empty bowl and said, “Bene, you didn’t want to become a cleric?” I smiled at Vallen and said, “No, I didn’t. Do you need me to smack Gough a few times to show you why?” Vallen replied, “No, I’ll take your word for it, my lord.”
So we sat down and talked a bit and I asked who was going to watch over our guest tonight. They divided up the night and I took the last bit before everyone was expected to get up. With the cleaning done, we turned in except for Dravist, because he had the first watch. I could see it would be a cold night because the stars were out. With no cloud cover, the earth would shed its heat. It was going to be a chilly morning.
51st Planting, 221
The morning came too early for me since I had the last watch. Vallen stumbled over to his tent and rolled in. He was asleep in only a moment based on his slow heavy breathing. He was tired from a long sunny day of walking with his armor on. I grabbed my blanket and threw it around my shoulders and stood up. I pitched a few sticks on the fire. Then I walked over to Gough and made sure he was just like we left him. What a shame. I wanted to use him as a spotter and check on him now and then. I’d have paid him in spices for just telling me what he had seen since the last time I came for a visit. I didn’t care he was a deserter as long as he could serve me. But his die was cast. He was probably living his last days. When we returned to Stonebridge I would turn him over to the guard. They’d find out who the third bears were and then he would be tried and executed for desertion, or maybe sent to hard labor. But I couldn’t try and execute him for that out here. I didn’t have the means to try him, and I wasn’t too sure about the authority either. They didn’t cover that in Emissary school.
I stepped away from the camp into the darkness and took care of my needs. I walked back and got my water skin, the large one, and washed the sleep from my eyes. I put it away and retrieved my journal writing things and sat down. I began to write about the previous day and the discovery of the dead bandits. I wrote about the path we chose to come here and the encounter with a deserter in the stand of trees. I wrote about the terrain mentioning that once we left the hills, or mounds, for they were not much for hills, we left our water resources behind as well. And I wrote that we passed the night quietly. The morning had come with a chill just as I expected. The sky was clear and I could see the stars and identify several constellations.
I put my writing things away and pulled out my boiling pot. I filled it and set if over the fire. We had a long day ahead of us and I wanted to get my fellows up quickly and pleasantly with a cup of hot coffee. I rummaged through my pack and pulled out my pipe. I thought I’d enjoy a bowl of tocco while I watched the horizon. I pulled out everything and lit my bowl and put my things away. I stood up to throw a few sticks on the fire and as I sat down, quietly on the log, I heard a noise in the woods behind me. I swung my legs around and peered into the trees.
I heard the horse and the mule make agitated sounds and turned my head a little in that direction. I slowly stood up and pulled my dagger as I continued to peer into the trees. I stepped quietly over to the animals to see if I could see anything from over that way. I approached my horse from near the tail but took care to swing wide and placed my hand on his flank so he would know where I was. Never get behind a horse that doesn’t know you are there.
I spoke softly to him to ease their minds. He just pawed at the ground walking a step forward and then a step back as his lead wouldn’t allow him much more than that. We stayed like that for several minutes; me with my dagger drawn, legs flexed, eyes scanning into the trees and one hand touching my horse. Then I heard the sound of whatever I was facing.
It was big, but so far it was invisible. My dark vision was not helping me see through the thick undergrowth at the edge of the forest. I could hear it take a few steps in the dry leaves. I kept thinking it, but maybe it was them. I didn’t want the horse and mule to be caught defending themselves while tied up, but I feared if I loosed them they would be gone and I’d lose a whole day rounding them up. I decided to take a chance on that and I called out, “Vallen, Gillfort, Dravist, Jackwon; you guys need to get up. We’ve got trouble. You guys hear me? You need to get up and arm yourselves. There are animals in the wood and they want something, and I don’t think I can scare them off myself. You fellows hear me?”
Jackwon called back, “Yea, I hear you.” He sounded half way between me and the others, and then he was right next to me peering into the trees. “Can you hear it … them? What do you think? Stay here with the animals. I’m going to get the others up.” Jackwon was in full alert with a sword in one hand and an axe in his other hand. I eased backwards and then eased to my left. As I got closer to the fire I whispered in a loud whisper, “Gillfort, Dravist, Vallen, wake up! Now! We’ve got a problem. Quick arm yourselves.” Gillfort was next awake enough to understand what was happening. I said, “Go get the mule and bring him over here and secure him to a stake. Then get my horse and do the same. There is something in the woods spooking them. We need to defend from the fire. Now go!” And he stepped forward to get the mule. “Vallen, Dravist, get up!” Dravist was awake and holding his mace. I said to him, “Keep an eye on Gough until I can get Vallen up. Just stay here and keep an eye on him.” Gough was awake already. He called out, “Hey, what, you’re going to leave me tied up?!!” He was in a bit of a panic. I ignored him. He continued to plead with Dravist, but he wasn’t having any of it either.
I stepped over to Vallen’s tent and shook his shoulder. “Vallen, Vallen, you got to wake up.” Vallen rolled over and swiped at my hand. “Vallen, we’re being stalked by some animal or animals. You need to get up and arm yourself.” He responded, “Huh? What?” His head began to clear. “Bene, what?” I repeated myself and added, “Do you want to watch Gough or go over where Jackwon is trying to find it, them.” He was up on his feet, moving to Jackwon. Gillfort had brought the mule over and we secured him to a stake near the tents at the fire. The fire should ward of the hunters, we hoped. We went back over to get my horse. Gillfort untied my horse and began to lead him away. I told Jackwon and Vallen, “Let’s ease back over to the fire.” They followed.
Gillfort secured my horse to another stake. Then he stood in front of us looking into the forest. He made some odd noises, a combination of some grunts and some bird whistles and clicks with his mouth. Two bear emerged from the woods. They were large but under the circumstances I may have thought bear cubs were large. My adrenalin was pumping through me as much as anytime before. The hair on the back of my neck and my arms was standing up. I didn’t feel any chill.
Gillfort broke the standoff saying, “Fellows, we’ve got a problem. How we deal with these bear may well impact how we will need to deal with the druids later.” I thought, “How can you think about the druids right now?” But Jackwon put my thought into words, “Druids?!! Why lets just take them out. We’ve got the men here for it. What about the druids? Who cares? Are you saying we can’t kill these beasts?” I watched the bear and thought carefully. I didn’t want to lose one of us nor one of our beasts. I agreed with Jackwon. If we were to just take care of business, surely Dravist could heal whichever one of us was unfortunate enough to receive the first attack. Bear were not known to hunt humans. They were mostly herbivores. We must have something they want. And then I understood.
“Steady fellows.” I said. “Just keep them still. I know what we need to do. Just give me a moment.” I walked over to the cart and retrieved one of my honey pots. I eased forward knowing that I was probably holding the thing they wanted. I grabbed two fairly large sticks from my reserves for the fire. I opened the honey pot and I stuck one stick in and produced a thick dollop. I held the stick out in front of myself and they sniffed. I raised the stick and gave it a heavy heave to throw it as far as I could behind them into the meadow. And they both broke to chase the stick. I scooped up more on the second stick and I threw it just a little further. The bear without the stick leapt onto the second stick and they were both gnawing on the sticks and making a bunch of grunting sounds. I took the whole honey pot and threw it in their direction and it broke open. I hoped that would give them something to do for quite a while. I relaxed a little and turned around to look at the others.
Gillfort said, “Good thinking Bene. That is probably going to keep them busy for a while but they may be back for more. The druids won’t mind your manner for handling that. But we may need to deal with them again in a while. Now they think you got plenty of honey. If we’re lucky by the time they stop we’ll be far enough that they just give up.” Vallen said, “My Lord, what shall we do now?” Jackwon said, “If they come back we may have to kill them since we’ll run out of honey eventually. We should have killed them anyway.” Gillfort took offense to this and replied, “They’re just bear. They want to eat the same as you and I. What’s your problem? Or do you just need some more tusks for your teepee?” Jackwon turned to Gillfort and raised his weapons and Vallen stepped up to stop him. Vallen said, “Now hold on there. We’re in this together. I’m sure he was speaking in the passion of the moment. Right Gillfort?” Gillfort responded, “What? What are you talking about?” Vallen replied, “The remark about a teepee. You were just running your mouth without thinking, right?” Gillfort paused to process what Vallen said and then responded, “Yea, right. I’m, uh, sorry for that, Jackwon.” There was a pause and Jackwon lowered his arms. Gillfort added, “I’m just saying that we need to be mindful of how we treat any animal or plant once we enter this forest. It could well decide whether we leave the forest or not. I don’t have any idea how strong these druids may be. They might be strong enough to take us all out, so watch your step.”
I looked over to the bears and then over to Gough. It was too early to leave and we hadn’t had our breakfast. I hoped the bears would be satisfied with the honey and leave us alone. I said, “Well, we’re not going to get any sleep now. We may as well have our breakfast and pack up. I’ll cook breakfast if you fellows could pack up your things. Dravist, you go ahead and keep an eye on Gough.” And with that I went to the wagon and retrieved the things I needed for breakfast. I cooked breakfast, enjoyed the rest of my pipe and shared some coffee with everyone, even Gough. Even under the circumstances I felt a need to give the condemned man some dignity. He was in a dark mood but the good breakfast helped. Jackwon, Gillfort and Vallen got everything packed up except for my lot. After I ate, I had them wash things while I packed up my things. We loaded up the cart and got ready to leave. Gough asked to be allowed to walk so we allowed him to walk. Meanwhile the bears did have enough honey to be satisfied and wandered off somewhere else.
Just after the sun rose we set off. We immediately plunged into the darkness of the woods since the trees blocked the sunlight so well. Once inside the woods the undergrowth was not a hinderance to my dark vision, but the party needed torches. I took the lead, leading my horse as I walked, because my dark vision was best at the front and my woodsman’s skills were best put to use as the party scout. It wasn’t easy going in the wood with our cart but we made progress. The thick leaves on the forest floor made pulling the cart a little more difficult.
I would walk ahead and stop, take a careful look, smell the air and listen as best I could with the commotion going on behind me. Then I would walk ahead again and repeat the process. Keeping my bearings was not easy in the forest as it was in the meadow, but I had a good sense we were traveling north. The old tale about moss on trees is not so helpful as city folk think. In the dingy light of the forest, moss grows on any side of a tree it can.
We were well into the forest and had taken two rests already when I began to get a sense we were being watched. We had stopped using torches a long time ago so it wasn’t by the fire that we could be tracked. I couldn’t tell if we were being hunted, stalked or just trailed. I believed it was more than an animal being curious of our party, but except for trained woodsmen, humans couldn’t conceal themselves from me so easily. This caused me to believe it may be the druids themselves. They would certainly have learned woodsman’s skills even though they may not be disposed to cutting trees and branches. Living in the woods included all manner of skills such as foraging for greens, roots, berries and mushrooms, making a campfire even in difficult circumstances, navigation, selecting sleeping cover, finding water, trapping and hunting game, wilderness first aid and medicines and things of that sort too. I decided to ask Gillfort if he felt it too.
“I’ve had a feeling.” I said to him. He just looked into my face and nodded his head very slightly. “Not a dumb animal, but something intelligent.” I continued. “Something trying to keep itself hidden and knows well how that is done.” Again, Gillfort nodded. “Druids?” I asked. He tilted his head to one side indicating he wasn’t sure. “Animal servants?” Again he tilted his head a tiny bit. I asked him, “Are you OK?” He pulled his hood out from his head further causing his head to shrink back inside. Then he put his fingers to his face cloaked by the hood and signed to me. He touched his ear and put his finger to his lips. He touched his eyebrow and pointed outwards in a sweeping motion. He put his finger back to his lips and then cupped his ear. Then he pointed his thumb at himself and brought his hand before his face with his fingers all touching and pointing outward before he opened them up, and then pointed at me. Then he bent down and picked up a stick and held it in front of him so I would watch the stick. Then he broke the stick and broke it again in two crisp “Snap – snap” sounds.
From all this I believed he was very concerned we should avoid talking about anything we didn’t want others to hear. And he further wanted me to know he was alert to our surroundings and agreed we were being watched. And finally it appeared he would signal me with two crisp snaps of a stick if he wanted to signal me again if he believed he needed to communicate with me without talking. I nodded to indicate I thought I understood him.
I looked at the rest of our crew. I held my finger to my lips. Then I turned and led my horse forward again. They began to follow and I immediately had the feeling again. I swept my eyes left and right without turning my head. I also looked into the lower branches wondering if it were the birds or squirrels that were enchanted by the druids. Then I noticed that I hadn’t seen playful squirrels in some time. They were probably frightened by whatever was watching us and their alertness to certain threats made them hunker down until we were passed.
I walked and thought about the threats to the squirrels. In the forest they wouldn’t be concerned about hawks that hunted by flying high overhead and looking for rodents scurrying in the meadow. Badgers, wolves and other predators would get them scared. Larger animals like bear wouldn’t typically hunt squirrels but they may still scare them because of their size. Foxes and felines might scare them as well. I continued to scan ahead, up, left and right and to listen carefully.
Suddenly I found that we were crossing a pathway in the wood. It lead ahead and to my left and disappeared behind and to my right. I turned to follow the path that lead ahead. The path was wide. I could have mounted my horse but I continued to lead him. The others followed and I’m sure they were relieved the handling of the cart became easier. We were on the path a short time when I looked ahead and saw a figure standing on a branch over the path steadying himself on the tree trunk with his left hand.
He was dressed in a hooded cloak of rough brown fabric. When we were not so far away he held up his right hand signaling for us to wait. I stopped and turned to look behind me to verify the others stopped and saw the man on the branch too. He spoke first.
“Good day travelers.” He began, “Why do you come this way?” I brushed back my hood so he could see my head and face. I replied, “Good day. I am Bene Timber, a minstrel and messenger from the east. I have been asked to seek out the druids of the deep wood and ask for their counsel.” The hooded figure replied, “Why does a minstrel, two fighters, a cleric and”, he paused, “a druid seek the counsel of the druid of the deep wood?” I replied, “I have been asked by the governor of the province to see if the druid can help us understand a sign. We want to know if there is evil or good in this sign. We know the druid recognize our fight for the good and hope our faith in the druid is well placed that they would be our allies in this struggle.”
“But you bring men for war with you to visit the good druids?” I bowed and replied, “Yes, my friends Vallen and Jackwon have been trained to fight. Even I”, and I bowed again, “have some training in the martial arts. But they came at my invitation as my escort for I knew not what else might lie between the town and the druid’s home. We have even found a deserter from the army I believe, and he was not kindly disposed to our intrusion. I wanted to leave him be but he behaved badly so I couldn’t leave him behind. I couldn’t trust him not to leave us be as well.” I went on. “Even this morning, we were visited by two bear. I may not have been able to handle them myself, but with their help, the bear were cautious enough to allow me to share my honey with them to their delight. My other friends, Dravist and Gillfort, are part of their company. They are also good travelling companions. I hope you will come to know them all better.”
The figure in the tree looked down to my left and another druid stepped from behind the tree on the opposite side of the path. He was similarly dressed and was holding a quarter staff. He just stood silently in the path ahead. I heard a sound to my right and I turned my head to see two bear, possibly the same two bear we met that morning. I heard a sound to my left and turned my head again. There was another bear, much closer, and all of a sudden he transformed into a cloaked man. The man pulled his hood from his head back so that I could see his face. He had dark skin and thick wild hair and a full beard. His eyes were fixed on me and he reached out with his arms. He pulled back his sleeves to the elbow exposing his dark skin and showing he held no weapons. I bowed to him.
He spoke to me. “We have not talked with an official from the Province in some time. Who are you?” I replied, “I am Bene Timber, Emissary from Magistrate Ballinor. I am friends with Andante and with Flint, both men that guard the frontier from the evil that lay beyond. I would expect you’re acquainted with both of them. I have their signs in my pouch.” He nodded and said, “I am Alnifolia, the druid master of this herd. I would see the signs from you, Bene Timber.” And he slowly stepped toward me. With my left hand still holding the reigns of my horse, I fumbled with my belt pouch and retrieved the two stones. I held them in my extended right hand for Alnifolia to see. He stepped close enough to touch my hand looked at the stones in my hand and then nodded. He said, “These stones carry the signs. Thank you, Bene Timber. Come, walk with me. We are a short way from our home.” And he stepped across the path to my side of my horse and we walked forward. The others followed along.
I began with “I am newly come to this province. I have known Lord Ballinor less than a week. How long have you been here?” Alnifolia replied, “We have lived here for over four years. You are older than the emissaries I’ve dealt with in the past. You know the wood. You have experience.” I smiled and nodded my head and replied, “Yes, because I am a half-elf we live at home longer than humans before we begin careers as adventurers or government officials. I grew up in a town near an elven wood and learned about woodsmanship as a youth. I practiced that trade for years before attending the bardic college.” He nodded and replied, “I see, then you are not a minstrel but a trained bard? Good. I don’t like minstrels. They are ill mannered. Bards are different and I can see you have good manners.”
As we passed by his two friends, he motioned with his hand to them. The one in the tree jumped down with such a fluid motion it seemed he floated down to the leaves landing with a soft sound. I asked, “Pardon, but I have shared the names of all my company, except for the deserter. His name is Gough, or so he has said. What are the names of the druids in your company?” Alnifolia replied while looking ahead, “Palustris, Laevis and Marogred.” I recognized the last name from the note. Something about that seemed out of sorts. I replied, “Unusual names. Where are they from?” Alnifolia replied, “Marogred is a dwarf from the sword mountains. Laevis is from the capitol. Palustris is from the south from a farm beyond Eros. I grew up in a farm from this province to the extreme south of its borders. I developed a love for nature and left my home to become a druid. Now I am the master of this wood. I care for all the beings that make their home here. We will make this a paradise if men leave us alone to do it.” There was no edge in his voice with this comment. He didn’t sound bothered that we journeyed to speak to him, and it seemed there was no way we could get him to leave the wood to come talk with us.
I wanted to see if I could learn more. I asked, “A company of four druids. This seems a small number for so great a project as to make this a paradise. There are surely hundreds of acres of trees, countless beasts. I had heard of druid’s gatherings and never heard of such a small number.” Alnifolia replied, “We are not so many today but we are growing. Marogred joined us only a few weeks ago. As our work here gains notoriety, more will come. That is my calling as Master. I must see to it we succeed and more will come from that.” He paused and continued, “It is not for you to understand all my duties, methods and such. But I have to do my duty as a leader to draw others to this task. When they come, I see to their training and in exchange they work in these woods, not for me, but for the woods and the animals. I don’t expect you to understand it all. But if you spend time with druids you will see this is how most of us handle our community arrangements. All the members are free to go provided they make a public declaration in one of our ceremonies and we divide the property involved. But they are here because they also have a calling to tend to nature.”
I wanted to plant a seed in his mind for later, because this Marogred fellow could be of some importance and I wanted to see if Alnifolia could help me understand why the fellow mentioned in my found letter describing a treasure hunt ended up here with these druids. I said, “Alnifolia, Palustris, Laevis and Marogred? Do I have all them right and in the right order?” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, that is all of us, at present. Actually, I am wondering what your friend Gillfort is thinking. If he is ready we could take him in if it is his desire.” I thought about that and said, “You know, I’m beginning to wonder that myself. He is quite amused with my lack of knowledge of your business and manner. This trip may produce all sorts of surprises.”
Alnifolia was looking ahead and said, “Well, we’re just about there. See those two great oaks ahead on either side of the trail? Just beyond there is a clearing and the ruins of another cult’s settlement. We have decided to take that over and clean it up as our central meeting area for now. They had several great buildings but only two remain. One is their temple. That is why I figure they were some sort of cult. The second building is a sort of barracks or army administration center. It was also mostly constructed of stone so it had survived whatever calamity resulted in this being a deserted area. Next to the barracks building there is the foundation of a large warehouse. The only other remaining feature is the courtyard linking the barracks to the temple. It was finished with good flagstones and there is a great amphitheater with a well. Other than that, there are a few obelisks, one of these a sundial.”
Just a few more steps and we passed between the trees and I paused to take it all in. Before me there were a few small trees and the ground sloped down away from there. The whole area was a cleared meadow in the forest. The contrast of the sun was almost blinding from what I was accustomed to all day. Even my horse was unsettled at the brightness of the sun appearing suddenly. As I stepped forward, now a little behind Alnifolia I looked about to identify the features he mentioned. As we passed through the small isolated trees I was standing at the top of the amphitheater which led down to a stone stage that was quite small. For the number of seats available in this outdoor venue the stage should have been many times larger. It appeared to be made for only a single performer to recite epic poems or ballads.
Beyond the stage there was a large flat space paved with flagstones as Alnifolia described. Ahead to the left there was a single obelisk that could be the needle of a sundial. There was adequate room in the courtyard for this. But directly ahead where the courtyard ended there was a great stone structure with columns and stairs leading to a great porch before the doorway to the building’s interior. The columns were impressively made almost the diameter of a man’s height. They rose about four stories into the air before touching the extended roof of the temple. All the stone of the temple was a bright white, highly polished, so that it was obvious a great many stone masons and architects were employed in this great work long ago.
To my right at the edge of the courtyard stood the only other remaining structure, which must have been the barracks he spoke about. It was also made of stone, and made with care so that stone masons were again involved, but the workmanship didn’t include the fine polish of the temple stones, and these stones were quarried somewhere else for they had a yellow heugh to them. The stones were cut down smaller and built together as bricks with the mortar. And the building was much more utilitarian than the temple.
Our cart was not going to fare well descending the steps of the amphitheater so I turned back and motioned for my group to lead the cart along the right hand edge winding down the slope to the barracks. I turned and began to lead my horse that way too. As I did I noticed the trees, the smaller ones in this clearing were actually planted at careful intervals and delineated the upper edge of the seating in this amphitheater. They were each fine specimens of their kind and I guessed they were one of the earliest projects Alnifolia established in making this ruined village into a natural area again. I listened to the sounds of the animals and decided the birds were happy and prosperous for there were many calls of the birds declaring territory, courtship and mating and even others just singing to enjoy themselves. I recognized many varieties but there were others I did not recognize. I thought I might ask later.
At the bottom of the slope we were near the barracks. I could see it needed repairs but was largely intact. I tied my horse to an old fence post and followed Alnifolia. He went inside the building and I followed him into a room like an office. He had cleaned up the room and apparently used it often. There was a rough hewn table, some crude chairs and a few small shelves on one wall holding small trinkets and a few candle stands. I asked him if we could speak in private? He said sure. Then I asked if I might talk to my crew so they could settle in for the night first, and he agreed to that also.
Outside again, I spoke to Vallen and asked him to help Jackwon set up camp with Dravist. I told him I was going to have Gillfort talk with the other druids while I talked in private with Alnifolia about my mission. I wanted Gillfort to learn what he could about their experience here and I wanted Vallen and Dravist to have a good look at the temple to see what they might learn about it. I emphasized one point before I went to speak to Gillfort, “Do not trust or confide in Marogred. I have reason to think he isn’t a druid. I’m not sure if the druids know it, so just avoid the subject.” At this I went to speak to Gillfort.
“Gillfort, I need you to have a look around and talk to the druids. They may know something about this area that would help me find what I am looking for. I must ask you to mind one thing though. I have reason to think that Marogred is not a druid, but an imposter. I’m not sure that the druids know it. I’m not saying they are stupid not to recognize a druid themselves. I do not know what skills he possesses. But do not trust him, do not confide in him and do not speak of the matter with the druids. I will handle it in private with Alnifolia if I can.” Gillfort looked me in the eye, thought for a moment and replied, “OK. But I hope you will tell me about this later. I don’t like being kept in the dark.” I replied, “Thank you. I will tell you what I can when I can. But this may be a delicate matter.”
Then I went to see Jackwon. “Hey, I need to attend to my mission and talk with Alnifolia. I need you to set up camp with Vallen and Dravist. Then I need you to keep an eye on Gough while the others have a look around for anything that might tell me about this symbol I’m seeking. Don’t lose track of Gough. He surely knows he faces severe punishment when we get back. OK?” Jackwon replied simply, “You bet. No problem.” With that I reached in my saddle bag and retrieved my flute, my pipe, my tocco bag and a jar of honey from the cart. Then I went inside to speak to Alnifolia.
Alnifolia was reading something when I came back. I asked if I might light a candle and have a seat. He said, “Sure. I didn’t know you elves needed much light. I’ve grown quite sensitive to bright light from living under the canopy of trees so long.” I replied, “No, I’m not in need of light, but I have something I want you to see. May I enjoy some of my tocco while we talk?” He replied, “Please, go right ahead.” I asked, “Do you have a pipe?” He replied, “Yes, but it is in the other room.” I asked, “Would you care to get it?” And he said, “No, not just yet. Maybe later.” I placed my things on the table and sat down. Then I motioned to feel for my pouch and said, “I forgot to grab my drinking cup and water skin. Would you have one you might share?” He replied, “Certainly. Allow me.” And with that he stood up and walked out the room. He returned presently with a pair of cups and a pail of water. He set it down on the floor and dipped in both cups holding one out for me.
I took the cup and had a drink. The water was very cool and even had a slight sweet taste to it. I had tasted bad water before, but I had never tasted water I would have described as good, until now. I finished my cup and dipped another from the pail. I fiddled with my tocco bag and pipe, stood up and closed the door. I lit my pipe and had another sip of my water. I began by saying, “I have some things to say that may shock you, but I did not come here to shock you. But I must ask you to keep this in strict confidence until I determine that the source of this matter is not an evil influence.” I paused and puffed on my pipe and Alnifolia nodded his head.
I retrieved my sketch of the pendent from my pouch. I unfolded it carefully and spread it on the table for him to see. He immediately got a big grin on his face and looked up at me. I said, “You know something about this, then? Please tell me.” He said, “We know something about it but we also seek to know more about it. Why do you come seeking this sign?” I puffed again on my pipe and said, “A man wearing this sign as a pendent has taken up residence in Stonebridge and the Governor wants to know what it means. Since I brought it to the Governor’s attention we have heard a story of a traveler through Stonebridge also wearing this symbol as a pendent.” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, and I also have seen the pendent. And I have seen the sign, although I was not meant to see either. The sign and the pendent mean this very place.” I puffed and replied, “How do you know that?” He said, “It is the great symbol on the wall inside that temple. It has something to do with the cult that built this village. This village was a stopping place for travelers that were going to another important shrine. We’re not sure where the shrine is; whether it is near or far away, nothing. I was told before I came here that I was to restore the spirit of these woods to combat the power of the temple. I was not told what the temple was for or anything, but I was told that I would know the spot when I found the temple. So I journeyed here and with the help of the animals I found the temple. Now I labor to restore the spirit of the wood, and my friends labor with me.”
I thought about what he said. “Who was the man that sent you here?” Alnifolia replied, “He was the master druid of Hollybliss, Opaca. He is the master druid of Confernos.” I asked, “And he knew of the temple? How did he come to know of it?” Alnifolia replied, “I don’t know how, but he is old and knows things that happened long ago in this region. I believe his knowledge extends beyond the empire and goes way back.” I puffed, and then said, “I must be right on top of the answer to the riddle of the pendent. First there is a wizard with the pendent, then a traveler, and then I happen on the temple.” Then I said mostly to just myself, “What is this temple about, I wonder?”
Alnifolia replied, “A wizard, did you say?” Absent mindedly I replied, “A wizard? Um, did I say a wizard? Is that what you said?” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, you did say you first saw the pendent on a wizard? Is this the man in Stonebridge, or the traveler?” I paused and realized I better not try to hold this information back. “Yes, the man that I first noticed wearing this pendent is the current Provincial Wizard in Stonebridge. His name is Finlock. Does that mean anything to you?” He replied, “No, not the name, just that he is a wizard. Wizards had something to do with the cult that came here, although they must have also had among them clerics too. That would explain the temple.”
Alnifolia continued, “And then there is the other mystery. We found a pendent like this among Marogred’s personal things after he came here. Palustris noticed it first and immediately understood it matched the symbol on the wall of the temple. He asked Marogred about it in front of all of us at dinner when he saw it. Marogred told us a story of a dwarf friend that gave him the pendent and said he’d find us by showing the pendent to people and asking where he could find the temple. The problem is I saw right through that story. While I was given a description of the temple symbol, I found it without asking others. But when we found Marogred, he didn’t show us the pendent to ask for directions, so I realized he wasn’t so keen to let folks know he had the pendent in the first place. So he was lying about the pendent, what else was he lying about.”
Alnifolia continued, “And he isn’t a druid either.” With that, I stopped and looked right at him. “If he isn’t a druid what do you think he is doing here?” I asked. Alnifolia replied, “The temple. He is here because of the temple. But I don’t know what specifically he is looking for. I’m pretty sure he thinks he’ll find what he is seeking it in the temple.” I smiled and shook my head a little. I said, “I can see that you have placed some trust in me. Let me show you I deserve your trust. From this day forward we shall always be friends, even though I don’t know a thing about druids.” I reached in my pouch and retrieved the map with the letter. I held up the map so Alnifolia could see it, and then I turned it over so he would see the letter and set it on the table for him to read. While he read the letter I said slowly, “He’s after the treasure he thinks is in there.” I paused, puffed on my pipe and had another drink. Alnifolia said, “Of course. Why he may not even be a cultist. He may just be a grave robber.”
I said, “I’m not sure about these riddles. Does any of it make any sense to you?” He replied, “Well, the temple seems to have something to do with water. Water was part of their rituals. When it rains a puddle two inches deep collects in the temple on purpose. It is designed to have a puddle two inches deep, no more. It is a very curious thing. I believe they stood in the puddle as part of the worship practice. When you go in there, the first thing you will notice is the smell of mold and mildew. You won’t notice anything else for a while. We can hardly spend a moment in there the smell is so awful. I guess the bit about the ink never getting wet might have something to do with the temple.”
I decided to back up a little. “You said he was no druid. But you let him stay with you? I don’t doubt that you are sure he is no druid, but could you explain that to me, how you know?” He got a smile on his face and said, “Oh come Bene Timber; if a child blew into your flute there, you would know they didn’t have any musical training. If I blew into it and even used the finger holes as they should, you would know I wasn’t trained as a bard. We know he isn’t a druid. But he has made an interesting effort to convince us he wants to be a druid.”
Marogred has made up this story of always being an outcast among the dwarves because he doesn’t care for the things dwarves are known for. He has told us he has always had a calling to become acquainted with nature and came to realize it was a calling to be a druid. He said he tried to learn how to be a druid by reading books but there were no books among the dwarves so he had to run away and seek out his life as a loner. He said in the cities he found sparing few books but tried to read and learn from them. Now, among us, he fumbles with even the most basic chores and rituals. And when he does his chores he seems so disgusted with the dirt that gets on him. No. He has not the least speck of a calling to be a druid. A greedy dwarf, looking for treasure, sure; but no druid. This letter is the answer to many of my questions for the past few weeks. I am convinced this is what he is about. Now how am I going to catch him?
I replied, “That is a good question. I would like to get some more information from him, about the treasure and about the pendent. But it is getting late. What do you do for dinner?” He looked at me from his absent thoughts and said, “Dinner, oh yes, that. Let’s go and talk to Laevis and Marogred. They are good cooks.” And he stood up and I stood up too. We opened the office door and stepped out into the open. He looked about and saw our campsite. He found Laevis and called to him. “Laevis, what did you want to do about dinner tonight? We have guests.” Laevis began to walk over to us. When he was close he said, “I was going to cook a stew tonight, master.” Alnifolia responded, “No, let’s have some good meat tonight, for our guests.” Laevis was a little surprised by this but said, “Very well, master. I shall see to it.” And he turned and walked away to my right. “Wait a moment.” I said, and he stopped and turned to face me. I continued, “I have some spices. What would help your cooking along tonight?” Laevis got a smile and said, “Let me find Marogred, and we’ll come and find you to discuss it.” And he walked away with a little bounce in his step.
While that was going on, I decided to check on Jackwon and Gough. I walked over that way and Gough was seated in the shade. I stepped up to Jackwon and said, “How’s he doing?” Jackwon was serious, “Well he has learned quite a lot in the last hour or so. For example, he learned to keep his mouth shut because when his hands are tied it can be difficult to avoid this.” And with that he raised his axe and made a thrust into the air with the butt of the handle. I let a thin smile creep across my lips and said, “You didn’t?” He put the axe handle down on the ground and nodded his head just a touch signaling, “Oh yes I did.” I asked him, “Do you need to stretch your legs? I could watch him.” He replied, “Naw, I’m fine. Vallen wants to see you about something anyway. He’s poking around in the chapel, uh, temple.” I nodded my head a thanks and looked at Gough again as I turned to leave.
I walked straight over to the front of the temple. I was again struck by the fine workmanship of the stone columns. They looked just as smooth and straight as the day they were laid. In the shadow of the porch I peered into the temple. It took my eyes a moment to adjust with some concentration. I could only see some movement inside, but the light-dark contrast was too much for me to see more than that. I called for Vallen and stepped inside the doorway.
Just as I was warned, there was such a thick smell of mildew that I almost had to step back outside. I grabbed a cloth and held it over my nose and mouth. I looked about and tried to see what the major features were. I was just inside a waiting area, a narthex, and before me was a doorway that led into the main chamber.
I was struck by the unusual nature of the narthex. I stepped inside and within a stride the floor dropped about two inches. I almost tripped over my own feet stepping down suddenly like that. I turned and looked down at the floor. With the fine craftsmanship of the rest of the building I wasn’t ready for the floor inside to be uneven. But the floor wasn’t uneven because this was a deliberate step down of two inches. For a space of about three feet wide, the floor at the rear wall was two inches higher than the rest of the floor in the narthex. The coloring was all the same, but the floor level was just lower. I turned to face into the main room again.
There was another doorway, but no door. The wall separated this area from the large open space such as a nave. Beyond the doorway there were no chairs or other features, just a large flat open space. I stepped through the doorway and my eyes were now beginning to adjust to the light. I could see Vallen over near the wall at my left, and he was staring at a relief carving in the wall and talking softly with Dravist. The sound of my steps was quite loud in the cavernous room of stone. I walked their way and noticed the same smooth stonework that matched the work outside.
Vallen turned to me as I approached and was wearing a cloth tied behind his head and covering his nose and mouth. He said, “What do you think?” I replied, “The stonework is amazing.” Vallen said, “No, about this relief? It reminds me of a legend I heard in my childhood, but I can’t remember what it was about. I was hoping you or one of these druids would recall what this is about. But never mind that right now. It is clear we have found the answer to your quest.” And with that, he indicated the front wall at the opposite end of the room from the doorway. Now that my eyes had adjusted to the light I could see I huge version in colored mosaic tile of my sketch of the pendent. It had the circle of blue at the top and the fan spread out beneath except the fan had ribs and not smooth as my sketch seemed to show. I was almost struck dumb. I stepped over closer and to the center of the room to investigate the detail.
There was no doubt about it. The pendent belonged to the same group of people that built this temple. And the druids called them a cult and said there were powerful wizards and clerics involved. Well there was no doubt this cult had some resources to hire stone masons to do this fine work, and other men to quarry the fine stone and transport it here. These folks had some degree of power in the region. Anyone with an understanding of power would see that. So that left me to wonder to what end were they exercising their power to build such a structure?
There were stairs leading up to a raised area at the front wall and I went over to climb these stairs. I stepped on the first stair and felt a rough texture. These stairs were deliberately finished rough but still level. This was yet another riddle of the temple. I climbed the remaining stairs, all rough surfaced, and reached the raised level about three or four feet above the rest of the room. I walked steadily to the front wall to look at the mosaic.
The tile was brightly colored and fired pottery pieces with a glaze. The mortar was very even so that the tiles were made specifically for this display. There were torch sconces along the wall at this part of the temple. I wondered how the wall would appear if we lit the torches and stepped back to see it in the manner in which it was made to be viewed. I dared not light the torches without Alnifolia’s permission because that act along could unleash evil forces. I looked about and noted there were special places set lower to gather water. Water was clearly central to their worship, and probably the focus of all their power.
I turned around and walked back down the stairs carefully. My eyes were much better attuned to the light and I looked at the walls to either side of the main area. They each depicted a scene sculpted in the stone in low relief. The scene on my left showed a festive scene of dryads, imps, faeries, and other woodland spirits of legend playing in the woods near a scenic pool. The opposite wall depicted a scene of a conflict in story book fashion. It was symbolic of a fight and not an attempt to reflect an actual battle. There were rows of men with pole arms preparing to receive a charge from knights. There were archers shooting over the heads of the infantry at some far away threat. There were even wizards, clerics and possibly druids preparing to throw their magic at one another. And in the middle there was an armored cleric with an aura of magic about his as if he were either controlling his forces or calling upon even more powerful magic from his deity.
I also saw the wall with the doorway now from inside. It also had a low relief carving of scenes of water in its many forms. There were ocean waves, a great lake fed by a waterfall and a stream. A river ran from the lake to the sea shore. There were clouds, some think rain clouds discharging their load over the land, and there were hints of water elementals in the waves and churning waters. On this wall there were stone tablets with the runes of the elements engraved on them. The tablets stood in stark contrast to the beauty of the relief carving itself.
There were also more torch sconces on the back wall. I thought to myself how odd it would be to come into the temple room with these sconces burning because it would only cause deep shadows to be cast to the far wall. This was in contrast to how most temples were made where the main light was placed in the front so it seemed the light, and the power, came from the front of the room. This was a peculiar cult in so many ways.
I motioned for Vallen and Dravist to come outside with me. Outside we untied our masks and stepped off the porch and into the paved courtyard. I asked them if they learned anything else while I was talking to Alnifolia. They told me they had talked to the druids only a moment before going into the temple to look around. Vallen immediately recognized the mosaic on the wall as the symbol of the pendent so he wanted to have a good look around inside, but with the poor light and the smell it wasn’t easy. He thought we should go back in the following day since we were losing the light, and possibly the druids would agree to allow us to take torches in even if they didn’t want us to light the sconces inside. I told them we were going to have dinner together with the druids but they should stay on alert because things might begin to happen. I then excused myself to find Gillfort.
Gillfort was returning from his own tour of the area with Palustris. I approached the both of them wearing a broad smile. I started by saying, “Well there you are. What do you think?” Gillfort responded, “It is quite a place. The temple is still in very good condition and ingeniously made. Palustris has shown me their manner of making the temple roof catch the rainwater and channel it inside. It causes a large puddle to collect inside and they stand in the water it seems to celebrate their god or whatever it is they did. See here”, and he pointed to the edge of the roof, “the water doesn’t fall from the roof. It collects in channels at the top of the wall. Those channels lead to the front of the temple where the water collects into a pool. The pool is designed to let the water spill out and make a great noise of falling into the pool where the priest stands. I bet it is quite a racket inside that stone cave with the water falling in there.” Palustris continued, “After the water falls into a pool in the upper level it cascades down to the lower level into a pool two inches deep again. From there it flows to the back of the room and into the narthex. In the narthex there are two drain pipes that carry the water away. We believe the water flows through the drains into the well so the well holds a great deal of water from its underground sorce and from as much rainwater as they can collect. See how the whole area descends to the well. All the rainwater of the courtyard flows there also.”
I gazed around and saw what they were helping me to see. They were right. These fellows had taken great steps to collect all the water they could. Was this necessary for their rituals or to support the pilgrims that were travelling to the other great shrine? Palustris asked me to follow him and he walked to the well at the center of the amphitheater. I had mistaken the well for a tiny stage when I first looked down upon it. As we approached, I could see it was also finished in the pure white stone of the temple and not the yellowish stone of the barracks.
The rim was made with a few sector stones, polished and fit in a perfect circle. The bottom edge of the stones were set into a depression and cut with a serrated bottom, which set the stones up just a touch and allowed water to flow under the rim and into the well. There was no doubt the builders intended for the well to serve as a cistern. The top of the well was finished in eight sector stones in each of three layers. Without mortar they were set but still very stable. I estimated that the stones were aligned with north, south, east and west, but I would need to confirm how precise the alignment fit the earth.
I stepped back, and using the well rim as a gage, I noticed the major axis of the courtyard flagstones aligned with an east-west line too. It was not uncommon for stones to be set in an alignment like this because it helped as a guide to travelers that needed to navigate from place to place. But it did add to the notion that the entire plaza was built to a specification and not just randomly laid. It also showed it was built by a group with substantial funds.
I asked Palustris to tell me about the well. He said they had a good look at the well one day and found the end of two pipes set below the ground that emptied into the well. They concluded it was the drain of the pipes coming from the temple. Then he told me something that I didn’t know and wasn’t expecting. He said they drew their water from the well, naturally, and this is the special good tasting water I enjoyed while talking with Alnifolia. He said they hadn’t determined why the water tasted this way because so much of the water was simply run-off that shouldn’t have any special taste to it. And they had studied it enough to figure the aquifer that fed the well wouldn’t explain it either. They had taken samples of the water and filled clear glass containers. It was immediately clear and never showed any sign of change. There was no sediment in their samples.
It was good for the plants too. They had watered a bunch of plants from the well just to see if anything could be observed from that, and the group of plants grew higher and stronger than others of the same species that only received rain water. It was clearly due to something special about the well and it appeared it was a deliberate action that caused it to be that way, although they didn’t disregard the possibility that the character of the water caused them to build on this spot.
I was thinking about all these things and looking around at the layout of the plaza and the temple. The temple was due north of the well. The door was perfectly aligned with the well on a north-south line. The flagstones were aligned with an east-west axis. The amphitheater benches were perfect concentric circles arrayed in a fan about the well. Apparently they held large group meetings out here. I looked up and saw the trees planted by the druids at the edge of the amphitheater and admired how they added to the visual appeal of the area.
Then I had a moment of inspiration. I retrieved my drawing and held it open to see, and I imagined a blue gem at the top of the design with the fan radiating beneath from the gem and I realized the symbol was a reflection of the amphitheater with the well at the center, and not an arbitrary design. The well and the amphitheater were the central focus of the cult, not the temple. The temple was secondary and the well was primary. They both were built around the concept of the water, but the well was the focus. I asked, “Where is Alnfolia?” Palustris replied, “I’m sure he is preparing for dinner. It should be only a short time before it is ready.”
Just then Alnifolia emerged from the barracks doorway and said, “We’ll be eating soon. Please come inside. We have a good table for eating. Bring everyone.” And he indicated over to where Jackwon was standing and added, “Bring him too.” Jackwon got a sour look on his face and raised his axe in hand. I held up my hand and called over to Jackwon, “Easy, Jackwon, I’m sure he means your charge, Gough. Bring him inside with you.” And Jackwon turned and stepped that way.
Inside I walked further down the main corridor and found the room at the rear was a large meeting room with a large table and chairs. It appeared to double as a dining area because it had shelves along two walls that appeared to be typical shelves for holding dishes and mugs. There were four windows to the room and they were open for the light and the breeze, but candles were lit and standing in holders on the table for more light. The table was set and Alnifolia was standing at the head of the table. He indicated I should sit at his right hand and Palustris sat at his left side. Gillfort sat next to him and Vallen next to Gillfort. Marogred sat on that side next to Vallen. Beside me was Dravist, and then Jackwon, and then Gough, and then Laevis sat at the end of the table opposite Alnifolia.
Marogred and Laevis brought in the food and set it on the table. They assumed their places and there was a moment of quiet. Both Jackwon and Gough reached out a hand to pick up the bowls in front of them to begin serving, and Vallen, sitting across from them, cleared his throat and shook his head very slightly indicating it was not proper to assume it was time to serve.
Alnifolia lifted up his arms and held them out palms up. The druids, including Gillfort, did the same, although Marogred was a little slower in picking up on the signal. I also reached out my arms and held up my hands following Gillfort’s lead, but the others did not copy our actions. Alnifolia said something in a language I was unfamiliar with and the druids responded with a word. Then Alnifolia said something else and the druids responded with a word, before Alnifolia said a third phrase and the druids responded with a word. They lowered their hands and I also lowered mine. The druids other than Alnifolia took their seats and our party followed their example. Everyone else seated, Alnifolia took his seat.
The druids indicated it was OK to serve so the bowls were raised and passed around the table. It was a fine meal of woodsmen’s fare. We had venison and gravy, small potatoes, green leaves and berries and a tea made from boiled roots. We all had plenty to eat although Gough was hungrier than the rest of us. He ate like this was the finest meal he had enjoyed in a year, and I believed it was just that. While we ate, we talked about the day.
Alnifolia asked about our journey from the town and I described how we left with our cart of provisions and made our way along the road until we broke off to turn northeast. I described my meeting with Gough and Alnifolia asked Gough for his view of it. Gough’s account of the details was not different from mine except he told the story of a man having his home invaded rather than a man receiving a visitor. Alnifolia asked Gough about his service in the army, and Gough provided little detail demonstrating that he would rather not discuss it at all. We understood that to confirm my suspicions that he was a deserter. Alnifolia asked Gough what he would do if he were to let him go. Gough said he would go back to his campsite to live but he’d want his chest of things back and a day’s rations to get there. Alnifolia only replied, “Oh, I see.”
I resumed talking about our campsite the previous night at the edge of the wood. I spoke about the cold night and waking early and wanting to make breakfast until the bear approached. At this point the druids were very interested in the story. I explained how we brought the animals over to the fire and then I gave the bear a pot of honey to lead them away. The druids were pleased to hear we didn’t have to fight the bear off. They also appeared to appreciate our attention to the safety and well-being of our animals first.
I then spoke about our uneventful although eerie and uneasy walk through the wood before finding Palustris. I asked, “Had you been trailing us?” Palustris just glanced over at Alnifolia. Alnifolia said, “I was watching you and made sure you found Palustris. If you had not noticed the path in the woods, I would have moved in front of your group and turned you in his direction. Many travelers, adventurers, are not at home in the woods and could have walked across that path and never noticed a thing. So it was not lost on me that you found the path even though it is such a clear path.” I nodded and smiled at him. Then I asked, “Did you send the bear to us?” And he replied, “No, they smelled your wagon, I’m sure, and the horse and mule and even your fire. The fire probably made them cautious about approaching the wagon, but their keen sense of smell alerted them you were carrying goodies. They may have smelled your honey but it is more likely they smelled your fine ground wheat.”
He continued, “Laevis, Marogred, you have done a fine job with the meat and Bene’s spices. This is a nice tasty meal. I only wish we had butter for the potatoes. I really do miss butter, but it is not seemly for druids to raise cows. There are groups that keep goats, and goat’s milk and cheese are tasty enough. I may send for a handful of goats yet. They are allowed to roam wild and there is the problem. They would enjoy a few mouthfuls of the new leaves on our trees. I wouldn’t want that to happen so I may wait a little longer before that happens.”
I said, “Speaking of the trees, I wanted to ask you about something I discovered. I think I understand the secret of the well; or part of the secret.” Alnifolia responded, “Well that would be good to know, but I want to discuss that later. First I want to ask Marogred about his pendent.” And Marogred tensed and the room became quiet except for Jackwon and Gough. Jackwon noticed first, and put down his fork. Gough didn’t until Jackwon raised his hand to his forearm. Gough, with a mouthful of food, looked at Jackwon, and then looked around the table, put down his fork and swallowed his food.
Alnifolia asked Marogred, “As I recall, you received the pendent from a dwarf who said you would find our site by finding the temple with this symbol.” Marogred said, “Yes, that is how I got the pendent.” “You must have had something more to go on other than wandering around with a pendent in your hand.” Alnifolia continued, “Did you find anyone who knew about the symbol of the pendent before we found you, or were you just that lucky?” Marogred, replied, “No, I never found anyone that knew about the pendent. I only heard rumors of the design before I found you. I was astonished when I saw the inside of the temple that day, because I had decided the rumors were all just false legends.” Alnifolia said, “Bene, where is your map? I’d like to see the one with the letter.” And at this I heard Marogred’s chair scoot. I replied, “I have it here in my pouch.” And I fished it out. Now everyone except for Gough was paying careful attention to the conversation, for none of the druids knew of my map and only Vallen in my party knew of it.
Alnifolia took his time unfolding the map and laying it on the table to see in the candle light. Alnifolia asked, “Dravist, could you shutter the windows. It is dark and it is getting chilly in here.” Dravist stood and closed the four windows securing the shutters, and then he returned to his seat. Alnifolia placed his finger on the map at Stonebridge and traced my path to the great wood and asked, “You stopped here last night?” I replied, “Yes, we did.” He asked, “And where did you find the map?” I reached over and pointed to the road saying, “We left the road about here, and I found this map on a dead bandit about here. We traveled on to here where I found Gough”, I paused, “Gough’s campsite in a stand of trees about here, and then we turned north.” Alnifolia nodded his head and then began to turn the map over. In an instant Marogred was up and ran out the door down the corridor. Alnifolia raised his left hand and pointed at the door looking at Palustris and said, “Get him!” And Palustris jumped to his feet and gave chase. Alnifonia then said, “Laevis, he’ll need some help. Gillfort, would you care to …” And Gillfort was standing and said, “Yes, master.” Gillfort left with Laevis right behind him.
Alnifolia said, “I’ll have some more tea, please.” And the rest of us speechless, handed the pitcher of hot water down to him with a bowl of roots. He placed a root in his mug and poured in the water. I decided to have another mug of tea too. And Vallen also decided to follow suit. Gillfort, Palustris and Laevis all returned carrying Marogred, who was bound hand and foot with vines. They brought him to the corner of the room nearest me and Alnifolia and set him down and helped him assume a sitting posture in the corner. They returned to their seats and I wondered at Gillfort already treating Alnifolia as the leader here. Alnifolia sipped his tea and then asked, “Marogred, are you comfortable?” Marogred just glared at him. Alnifolia answered him, “Good. Where were we? Oh, yes, I was going to read this letter to everyone.” He picked up the letter and turned to the table to read it to everyone else.
He began, “Marogred," he paused and added, "I fear the scribe’s hand is atrocious. But anyway, …”
“I know someday this map will make its way to you. I have hidden the key deep in the Dark Wood where only fools would look. Once you have it, take it to Malthinines' old stronghold. Remember the foot-eared dwellers. Next, remember the second parchment you will need is covered in water, yet it never loses its ink. Finally, as a friend, I tell you a cart will be necessary and four directions must be gathered to carry it. Know the winds and you will find the treasure. Signed, Verogrim.”
Alnifolia turned to Marogred, and said, “It seems you dropped your map. Wasn’t it the map that guided you to us?” Marogred just glared at him. “So tell me where you got the pendent.” Marogred sat silent for a moment and then realized he had no choice except to speak. He may have been trying to think of a good lie but he decided not to try it. He replied, “I got it from a fellow in Stonebridge. He is the one that told me to find the temple. Apparently some fellow named Malthinines once lived here.” Alnifolia asked, “And what did … this fellow … want in return for the information and the pendent?” Marogred replied, “He wanted me to bring him a share of the treasure once I found it.” Alnifolia said, “Well there are any number of mysteries in this letter; I hardly know where to begin. But let’s stick with the mystery not in the letter. ‘A fellow in town’, who is he?”
Marogred turned his face away from Alnifolia and replied, “I can’t say.” Alnifolia sipped his tea, and replied, “Oh, I think you can say.” And after a pause Alnifolia said, “Gillfort, could you bring me a stick from the fire?” Gillfort bowed his head slightly and replied, “Yes, master.” There was a fireplace in the kitchen I noticed on the walk down the corridor. There was a healthy fire when we came into the dining room. I figured there might be nothing but coals by now. Gillfort stood up and so did Vallen. Vallen put out his arm to restrain Gillfort and said, “Wait here a moment.” Turning to Alnifolia he said, “You can’t torture this man.” Alnifolia replied, “You need not trouble yourself over this man’s well-being. He has news of some evil and we need to get to the bottom of it. His discomfort is his own choice. Would you care to show us how, Vallen?” Vallen replied, “Yes, I would prefer to give it a try.” Alnifolia nodded and Vallen stepped past Gillfort and walked to the corner and knelt down in front of Marogred. He reached out with his hand and cupped the back of Marogred’s head, looked in his eyes and said, “You know what they want to know. Do not let yourself be broken. You have no means to stop them. I can’t overcome them. They will have what they want from you. What could be worse for you?” Marogred replied, “You’re too sure of their power and too ignorant of his. The worst they could give me would be better than the least I might get from him. He gave me the pendent and the information on a promise that I would share the treasure. Do you not understand he is powerful for me to decide I was going to give him his portion of the treasure and not run away with all of it? He is that powerful, be sure of that.”
Vallen released his hand and stood up. Speaking to Marogred he said, “I’m very sorry.” Then Vallen nodded to Alnifolia and stepped around the table. As he sat down he said, “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to try. His eyes told me he believes what he said.” Then he looked at me and said, “Bene, Dravist, please forgive me.” After a short moment of silence, Gillfort stepped into the hallway and came back. He was holding a stick that was flaming on one end, about an inch in diameter and about two feet long. He stepped over and handed it to Alnifolia. Alnifolia took hold of the stick and waved it about a little. A slight trail of smoke marked its path in the air. I stood and said, “My lord, I must step away a bit. This is not the way I handle my business.” Alnifolia replied, “Of course. I know something about your methods. They are effective under the right circumstances, but they won’t get results here. Not tonight.” I lifted my chair and moved around the table the other way and set my chair near the entrance to the room. I motioned for Dravist to pass my mug of tea over to me, which he did. I looked at Alnifolia and said, I believe I could get the information but it will take some time. Don’t we have time for this matter to play out another way?” I took my mug and sat down.
Alnifolia returned his attention to Marogred. “Who is the fellow?” Marogred just looked down at the floor. Alnifolia stabbed him lightly with the flaming stick in the middle of his chest, and Marogred raised his head up and away from the stick. The smell of his vest burning and the sizzle sound spread in the room. Alnifolia said again, “Who?” And now. Looking into Alnifolia’s face Marogred replied, “He’ll torture and kill me.” Alnifolia pulled the stick back and waved his hand over the tip. The flame jumped to life and changed color from yellow to red, red to blue, blue to green, green to yellow, and then became a deep purple color and burning with a fury. Alnifolia pointed the stick at Marogred holding it so he would look and see the very unusual purple flame and said, “More powerful that this?” Then Alinfolia’s voice changed to a deep echoing voice. “I am here. He is miles away. Wouldn’t you rather just flee from this place and take your chances? You don’t know how powerful I am only because I have no need to show you. I will have my answers, tonight.” He began to advance the stick right at Marogred’s face. Marogred turned his face in fear and began to weep, saying “Alright. Alright. He is the merchant Petros, the wealthiest man in Stonebridge.” And Alifolia withdrew the stick and waved his hand. The flame returned to a dancing yellow light.
Alnifolia then said, “See, that wasn’t so bad; no lightning, earthquakes, volcanos.” I stood up and said, “Petros? How does Finlock fit into this?” Marogred replied, “Please, I can’t say any more.” Alnifolia looked at me and I nodded. He turned to Marogred and moved the stick toward his face. He said, “Finlock. Who is he and what does he have to do with this?” Marogred turned his face away again and Alnifolia moved the stick to his face slowly and Marogred blurted out, “He is the wizard in the town. He has nothing to do with this.” Alnifolia looked over to me and I shook my head. He pulled the stick back, waved his hand and the purple flame came alive again. Marogred just kept his face turned away and down. Alnifolia dropped the stick and gave a light burn to Marogred’s hand and pulled back, then he said, “You didn’t think I could do it. Trust me. I’ve done much worse.” Marogred just let out a scream and pulled his hand back as best he could but his restraints didn’t allow much movement.
Alnifolia turned and nodded to Palustris who stood and walked over to Marogred. He reached down and unfastened his vest and shirt. Then he pulled them down as best he could, exposing the flesh of his upper body. He stood and walked back to sit down. Alnifolia waved the stick in front of him and said, “We’ve got a lot of ground to cover tonight. If you can get past these first few questions all the rest will be easy, I assure you. But we’re not going to let evil have a break. Finlock?” And Marogred tried to twist so he could crawl away like a worm. Alnifolia swatted his chest twice with his stick leaving black marks on his skin. Marogred stopped squirming and twisted his face away from us.
Marogred blurted out, “He is the court Wizard, I told you that. Bene could tell you that. Heck, any of these adventurers could tell you that, I bet.” Alnifolia pulled the stick back in a motion that appeared he was about to thrust it into Marogred. “Wait!” I exclaimed. “Please, Alnifolia, let me try to get the information we need. This is not something we can be part of.” Alnifolia relaxed his arm and then lowered the stick. “I’m sorry”, he began, “and you’re right. We can’t do it this way. But there are other ways. Bene, you take a turn.”
This wasn’t what I was thinking when I stopped Alnifolia. Now I was in the hot seat, after a fashion. I stood up and sipped my tea, and placed the mug on the table. I stepped around to the head of the table and picked up the letter and read it again. I stepped over to about the place where I was sitting earlier and asked Marogred, “What is this business about a cart, four winds and four directions?” Marogred replied, “It just means there is a large treasure stashed here; I just need to find it.” I responded, “So you need a cart to carry away all the treasure? Is the treasure in coin or armor and weapons or magic items you’ve been sent to retrieve?” Marogred replied, “I believe it is a large treasure of coin, jewels, jewelry and gems. A very valuable treasure in magic items might not need a cart for only a few things are very valuable. But I wouldn’t know what was in the treasure until I found it.” I asked, “Four winds, four directions?” Marogred replied, “A team to pull the darn cart, that’s all.”
I knelt down and eased him around to face me again and I looked into his eyes. I believed he was telling me the truth on this, so I moved onto something else. I said, “The key and the parchment; where are they?” Marogred replied, “I haven’t found them, yet. They have to be around here somewhere.” I replied, “No, the key, it says here, is something you were supposed to bring here. You knew where to find it before you got here. I don’t think you needed the map to find it either. You know of some signs to show you where the key would be found. So you probably have the key already. Where is it, Marogred?” He looked at me and said with a sneer, “I told you, I haven’t found them yet. I don’t know.” I turned to Alnifolia and asked, “Could Laevis go check his things? I bet he has a key among his things.” Alnifolia answered, “Sure. Leavis, take Gillfort and search among Marogred’s things for a key.”
I turned back to Marogred. “What is this business about the ‘foot-eared dwellers?’” Marogred replied, “That is just a reference to Elves. I met a mob of them and their ears seemed to be a foot long.” I wondered about this. There was a group of wood elves known to have unusual ears. They were known to be very close to some fey creatures much further south. How this character could be mixed up with elves and fey was a mystery to me. I thought I’d just come back to that.
I asked, “What about this parchment? Where is it?” Marogred replied, “I keep telling you, I haven’t found it yet. It has to be here somewhere, I just haven’t found it yet.” I looked up and over to Alnifolia and he smiled, “If he hasn’t found it, we will. If he has found it, they will likely find it among his things.” Marogred glared at Alnfolia for saying that. I suspected there was something else among his things he didn’t want us to find.
Dravist decided to speak up and said, “I wonder if … Bene, I think I know where it could be. I’d rather not speak of it in front of him.” I was going to say, Why, who’s he going to tell? And then my better judgement came over me. There was no need to share any information with Marogred, and having him think we were going to find it anyway might give us a little edge. I replied, “OK, we’ll speak about it later. Nobody will be treasure hunting tonight anyway.”
“Well then I guess the last mystery we want to know about from you concerns Verogrim, the man with the poor handwriting. Who is he to you?” Marogred said, “He is a fellow I met in the capitol who gave me a book about druids. I wanted to learn their craft and he helped me a little. We became well acquainted.” At this, Alnifolia interjected, “Are you going to insult us by sticking to that story of becoming a druid; an outcast from your dwarven brothers; a wanderer forced to learn what little you could from a library book? Please. Tell me your real profession; no not me, tell them. I’m pretty sure I know what you are about. You fancy yourself a rogue, a daredevil, a cavalier. You’re nothing more than a thief and a liar. That’s all you’ve been since we’ve known you.” Marogred turned red in the face. I couldn’t tell if it was rage or embarrassment.
He yelled out, “If there were eight of me against eight of you, a fair fight, you wouldn’t be making sport of me all bound up. Cut my bonds and I’ll show you.” Alnifolia responded, “Eight against eight? How about one against one?” He turned to Vallen and said, “If he were hurt in a fight one on one, would that upset your sensibilities?” Vallen replied, “Single combat, that would be different, so long as you didn’t render him helpless and then murder him. But then he should be under peril of death if he won so clearly he won’t face any of us. He has nothing to gain, really.” Marogred spoke up immediately, “Oh I’ll face him, or you or anybody here. As long as I get out of these bonds I’ll face any of you cowards.” Vallen, Jackwon, and Palustris all stood up suddenly at that remark. Alnifolia calmly said, “Then it is settled. We’ll take up the matter again in the morning.” And with that, he calmly stood up. The druids stood up and the members of my party stood up as well, even Gough. In that moment I wondered what was going through Gough’s mind as he watched us interrogate Marogred.
Alnifolia walked out and down the corridor. Palustris asked Vallen for a hand in managing Marogred. I turned and asked Jackwon and Dravist to take Gough wherever they wanted to keep Marogred. I told them I was going to check on Laevis and Gillfort’s search.
Upstairs I heard them in a room and I walked in to see how things were coming. They had a bed covered in things presumably from Marogred’s stash. There were a few typical woodsman’s tools, an extra blanket, a tarp, a quarter staff that probably doubled as a tent pole, a few lengths of rope, a cooking kit, a fire making kit, knife-fork-spoon, drinking cup. He also had a few small boxes and pouches. They had opened one of his boxes and spilled out the contents; several sheets of paper, an ink bottle, a small ceramic cup, a quill pen and three maps. The maps largely agreed with his story of where he had traveled. One map was the area of the sword mountains. One map was of the capitol. The other was a map of the country between the capitol and Stonebridge. Together with the map he lost, this covers the same ground as his story.
I reached out and grabbed one of the pouches. Inside there was … tocco. I laughed to myself and gave it a smell. I smiled because it smelled like Illihambur’s tocco. I showed it to the other fellows and said, “I hope you don’t mind if I keep this?” They nodded to indicate, Go Ahead. I reached for another pouch while they put the writing stuff away. I opened the second pouch and there were a number of valuable things inside; jewels, coins and charms. I spilled them out on the bed in a small pile. Gillfort let out a whistle. I figured there was at least 100gp in jewels there and something around 10gp in coin. The charms were not worth anything to me, but to the right person they might be worth quite a bit. I wanted to take them to Andante.
I picked them up one by one and examined them. They didn’t appear to come from the same place. The stones were different and the styles were different. While one gem cutter can certainly work in different stone, they usually have a single style to their work. These stones were carved by different men in different styles. In fact, one was distinctly Dwarvish. I remembered my stones and pulled them out. I compared the styles and didn’t note any similarities that would make me think I had a solid clue. I put my stones away. Then I told them I would take the contents of that pouch to Alnifolia to decide what would happen to them. We were down to one more pouch and one small box.
They opened the box and looked inside. It had many small bottles inside, packed in cloth as a cushion. It could have been a dye kit, or some sort of alchemical mixtures to test substances with, but I feared it was a poison kit so I advised them not to touch any of it. They agreed and closed the box. Then we opened the last small pouch. I laughed softly to myself again as I poured it out. A thief’s pick and tools spilled out. It was a standard rolled up tool kit for fine tools. But the handles of three tools were showing that clearly matched the tools of a lock-picker.
I looked up at them and said, “Is that it?” Laevis nodded his head. And I said, “Are you sure?” And he replied, “This is where he has been sleeping. We went through the drawers and his pack. This is everything here.” I looked around the room. I opened a few drawers myself and felt inside. I couldn’t find anything. I asked, “What about his saddlebags?” Laevis replied, “He didn’t have any; no mule, no horse. He was just carrying a pack when we found him.” I said I was going to take these things to Alnifolia to see if we missed anything. I picked up the five containers and went to head downstairs.
I found Alinfolia in his office / study, seated, with a candle on the table and the map / letter in his hand examining it. As I came around the doorway he asked, “Do you have your pipe and tocco?” I said, “Yes, here in my pouch.” He responded, “Please have a seat. Let’s share a bowl and discuss where we are.” I took my seat and produced my pipe and Marogred’s tocco bag. As I filled my pipe I felt something inside and fished it out. There was the key we were looking for. I held it up to show Alnifolia and grinned. “It was in Marogred’s tocco pouch. I may have gone days without finding it.” I handed the bag to him and he filled his bowl. He set the bag back on the table and reached for the candle to light his bowl. I then used the candle to light my own. We each sat back and took a good draw and blew smoke into the air.
I broke the silence saying, “Where will we keep our prisoners tonight?” Alnifolia replied, “There are sturdy rooms downstairs. With them shut up down there we will need only one guard.” I replied, “Very good. I believe we have a long day ahead of us. Do you understand any of the clues in the letter any better?” He said, “Not really any better than the specific information I heard from Marogred, and I’m uncertain how much we may trust that. I don’t know about any character named Malthinnines. I’ve only heard there is a rich merchant in Stonebridge that is quite secretive about his business. I know of Finlock only from you. Verogrim is not a name I’m acquainted with. But now we have the key as you figured he had to have brought that with him. I don’t know where this parchment is and much less why we would need the parchment. The explanation of the cart and draft animals seems plausible enough. But I guess what bothers me the most at the moment is how Marogred could be more afraid of telling us information than he seems to be of drawing our wrath here and now. He must be truly afraid of the evil he knows to be this dedicated to keeping their secrets.”
I remembered what Dravist said and mentioned it to Alnifolia. “Dravist thinks he may know where we may find the parchment. I’d like to call and ask him to come tell us. Oh, and where shall you like us to sleep tonight? Outside?” Alnifolia responded, “Oh, yes. Yes, it would be better if you could. We have quite a bit of cleaning and repair left to get this place straight. I’d not wish to put you up in a filthy room. I understand it might be chilly tonight, but you’re prepared for that. If you could have two of your men alternate with mine tonight, I believe we could keep adequate watch over the prisoners.” I said, “Sure, I think that is fair enough. Could I have Jackwon begin the watch and have Vallen take the last watch before sunrise?” Alnifolia replied, “Sure. That sounds fine.”
I asked, “What about this key?” He said, “Let me have a good look at it.” He held it in his hand and looked at it from every angle, even holding it close to the candle for close examination. He put it on the table for me to take back. I said, “Let me show you the other special things he was keeping. In this box are three maps, a quill, writing ink and a ceramic cup, oh, and several more sheets of paper. I was going to ask if I could keep that, but I realize you can’t get these things easily so maybe you should have them.” Alnifolia smiled and agreed. “Thank you. That certainly seems the right thing to do.” I opened the other box to show him the small vials inside. I said, “I fear these are poisons. I would like to take them with me and have them examined by a specialist.” Alnifolia agreed.
I took out the last pouch and unrolled the tools for Alnifolia to see. I said, “This is a standard set of tools for a lock-picker. These are for picking locks. This is for winding a spring. This is for cutting a spring. These are to make copies of keys.” Alnifolia got a grin on his face and said, “Thinking of a new line of work? You seem to know a lot about these things.” I smiled back and replied, “No, I’m not looking to become a professional locksmith, but in ambassador training we were shown these things. I only know something about their use. It takes much practice, I’m told, to develop the right touch to pick a good lock. There are brute force methods around poorly made hinges, hasps and locks, but to be a good pick you need practice.”
Then I produced the pouch I wanted to keep, but I knew I couldn’t steal it from Alnifolia. I showed him the final pouch and poured the contents carefully out for him to see. He also noted the gems and their value. He picked up each coin and examined the images. He looked at the carved stones also and examined them in the light. He looked at me, “Do they mean anything to you?” I responded, “No, I don’t recognize any of the markings nor the carftsmen’s work. This one appears to me to be Dwarvish but I can’t place any of the other markings.” Then I made my request. “I was hoping you would let me take this bag with me. Of course the jewels and coin are worth just as much to me as they are to you, but I hoped they might also be examined to see if we could know where they came from. The stones in particular, should be studied to learn their origin and meanings.” Alnifolia laughed a bit and said, “Bene Timber, yes, I bet you want those stones and jewels. I tell you what; this is your lucky day. For the rest of your spices and a pot of honey, I’ll let you have the whole bag, to study, of course.” And he winked at me. He knew that out here the money and the jewels were worth nothing to him. The stones should be examined. The spices were worth something to him right now, and they were not without value even in Stonebridge. But out here the spices I carried were worth much more. He knew I could replace my spices for a fraction of the worth of the gems, but that was my affair and he would just let it be. But he added, “And when you come back to see me, I hope you bring another bundle of spices for me and my charges.” I replied, “Certainly.” Alnifolia summed it up, “So I’ll keep the paper, ink and writing things, AND the extra tocco, and you’ll take the rest.” I replied, “Uh, yes, sir.” I hoped I was keeping the tocco.
“Can we find Dravist? I want to know what he thinks about the parchment.” Alnifolia said, “Sure, he can’t be far. Go find him for us.” I rose, “May I leave these here with you for now?” Alnifolia said, “Of course.” I went out into the hallway and back to the meeting room. Gillfort and Laevis were cleaning up from dinner. I asked, “Laevis, where would I find Dravist, the cleric?” He said, “He is downstairs guarding the hallway where the criminals are being held.” I asked, “Where are Jackwon and Vallen?” He replied, “I guess they are outside.” I said, “I need to go speak with each of them.” And I turned to go down the hallway and outside.
Outside I turned to the left where our campsite was arranged. I stepped up to speak to Jackwon and Vallen. I began with, “Anything happen while getting Gough and Marogred in their places?” Jackwon said, “No problem at all for me.” I glanced over at Vallen and he shook his head. Then I said, “Jackwon, we’d like you to take first watch over the prisoners. Vallen, we would like you to take the last watch. This way you’ll each get a good block of sleep and you won’t have to get up.” Vallen replied, “Well then I guess I better turn in.” Jackwon said, “First watch, no problem. Who’s taking the other watches? Who do I wake?” I said, “I think Alnifolia wants Laevis and Palustris to take the other watches. Ask Alnifolia about that. We need to go in and relieve Dravist so Alnifolia and I may speak with him before we turn in.” And with that, Jackwon grabbed his weapons and we headed inside.
We stopped in to ask Alnifolia who had the second watch and he said to ask Laevis to take it. We went to speak to Laevis and then downstairs to see Dravist. Jackwon took over for Dravist and the two of us came upstairs. We came to see Alnifolia in his study. He asked both of us to have a seat. Alnifolia asked, “Dravist, what did you want to tell us about the parchment? It may have been very wise for you not to say anything in front of Marogred, or even Gough for that matter.” Dravist said, “I had a good look inside their temple. Being a cleric, I’m interested in details of temples. I was struck by the typical features and how elaborate they were. The stone low relief carvings were the sort of artwork many clerics would die for in their temples, uh, if you take my meaning. It’s just an expression mind you. Only in special cases would a group invest so much in a temple. They expected years of use by thousands of worshipers to go to such an expense. Then I looked at some of the less typical features. The puddle arrangement was of course the most notable. But the tablets in the rear. They seemed so out of place as if they were placed there after the artwork was commissioned. I wondered why. I believe they may be doors to hollowed out chambers and they were made to conceal their purpose as doors. On the carving on the rear wall the left side, as you face the carving, was a scene of ocean waves. The right side was a rushing river fed by a raging waterfall. In the space near the top between the two were storm clouds. And there were four tablets standing out depicting earth, fire, water and air. The fire tablet was on the left. The wind tablet was higher and just left of center. The water tablet was higher and just to the right of center, and the earth tablet was lower and to the extreme right. I think they may be doors over small hollowed out spaces and the parchment is in the space marked with the water rune. This would fit the clue, “The Parchment is under water, yet the ink never runs.” So I want to look in the temple to see if I am right.”
Alnifolia shook his head, “Now that is quite an eye for detail you have. I think we should do just that, in the morning.” Dravist blushed a little and replied, “As I said, since I am a cleric, I took careful note of these things.” I sat back and took it all in. I said, “Dravist, do you smoke a pipe?” He replied, “No, Bene, never have.” And we chuckled a bit. I said, “Well thanks Dravist. See if Gillfort needs a hand and then we’ll get some sleep outside.” Dravist stood up and said, “Sure thing.” And he left.
Alnifolia and I finished our bowls of tocco and I stood up and made my excuse that I would need to gather firewood before turning in. Alnifolia said, “Oh, just get a bundle from our fireplace. You can gather wood tomorrow when the light is good. No need for that tonight. We have plenty.” So I bowed and went to get the firewood. Back outside I threw several pieces on the fire and went to arrange my bedding. I looked up and saw the stars. It was going to be another cold night. I put my things away carefully and made notes in my journal. This took some time because it had been an eventful day since finding the bear.
52nd Planting, 221
I woke up a little late today. The sun had already created a glow in the sky but although with the trees on every side I believed the sun had not yet broken the horizon. The birds had been active for some time. I woke when they came to get Vallen for his watch. I tried to fall asleep but it wasn’t easy. There was one noise after another for a woodsman to notice. I heard the dew collect on the trees and begin to drip from the leaves. I heard some small nocturnal animals heading back to their burrows. I heard the owls give up on their night’s hunt and I heard other animals start waking. The birds were the worst. Some birds just seem to live for the chance to get up early and make such a racket. In the meadow you don’t get much of that, but in the forest, it happens all the time. So I tossed and turned until I opened my eyes once and saw the glow in the sky. Being a woodsman I always rose early so it was past time for me to get moving.
I threw a few pieces of wood on the fire and got it up and glowing. Even though it was getting light, this was always the coldest part of the day. The sun being down all night allowed the air to cool until it came up again, so this was as cool as it was likely to be. I found the coffee pot and put it on the fire. Then I went to get Dravist and Gillfort up. Jackwon got to sleep late so I wanted to give him some more time. While I was making preparations for breakfast, I wanted to talk to Gillfort to see what he learned from the Druids the day before and to see if his loyalties should be in question.
As I approached the far end of the park with the temple on my left and the shrine just a bit further hidden behind the temple, I could see my traveling companions, The Trim Troupe, coming down the road to meet me at the temple. I continued to look about to see if there were anything out of sorts and found nothing that should cause me any concern. Now I had rounded enough to be able to get my first glimpse of the shrine and the clerics assembled to begin their morning journey. They were chatting peaceably among themselves and now taking note of who was approaching their company. One of them nudged Joseph on the arm and pointed my way. The other clerics turned to look my way. I held up my free hand to wave at them and stepped onto the road from the park.
A soldier was there with our cart and my horse was likewise waiting. Everything was in order and we had a fine day ahead of us according to the sky. Dravist was talking to the clerics and Vallen was being very attentive to their conversation. Gillfort was mildly interested in their talk but Jackwon wasn’t the leastwise interested in it. I noted the things in the carts to make sure I had the right one picked out for us. I gently placed my sack in the back of our cart and turned to greet the clerics. They were all in good spirits. I mentioned that since we were going to use the road for a spell we would be better off traveling with the cleric on his way to Pine Mill. Joseph smiled and said, “We will be glad to have you join us.” I replied to everyone, “We have far to go so I must, with regret, cut our farewells short and begin our journey to the wood.” I shook hands with all the clerics and grabbed the reigns of my horse to lead him up the road out of town. Vallen had Gillfort lead our mule and the rest of them followed along on foot between me and the cart.
Joseph and Manahem followed our cart with their own. We passed the guards at the edge of town and they greeted me warmly as we passed. On the other side of the town wall I mounted my horse. It was more for the ability to see further from atop the horse as it was for any other reason. Being on the horse allowed me to ride ahead and look about and then ride back to talk. After my first experience I was going to make sure and not become lazy but remain vigilant. After a short way I rode ahead and had a good look around and then rode back. I dismounted my horse and led him by the reigns again. I talked with Vallen first.
“How did you come to be in Maples?” I asked. He replied, “We heard rumors that there was a treasure in a cave collected by some beast that was menacing the town. By all accounts we would have been more than a match for the beast and we thought it sounded like our best option to earn coin to fund our travels.” I replied, “I guess you learned about that ploy then?” And Vallen replied, “My lord?” He had not, and hadn’t figured out how many small town leaders would entice some adventurers to come and manage a problem for them at a cut rate. The ploy was to entice a group with some story of much riches for little risk and effort. Once the adventurers were in town they didn’t want to leave empty handed so it wasn’t so hard to get them to do something a bit more hazardous. For the effort they put in to killing the bugbear and kobolds, they may well have earned the same coin in the same amount of time just serving as guards for a caravan. I explained this to Vallen, delicately so he wouldn’t think I was making him feel as a child. When I was done, he paused and then replied, “I see.” I wanted to make him feel better, “But if you hear a similar story someday in the future you can think that you might find a real adventure instead of a bear hibernating in his cave.”
I rode ahead and looked about from a rise in the terrain and then rode back again. I dismounted and asked Vallen if he was familiar with riding a horse. He said he was but unfortunately his armor was a bit heavier than my horse should carry. I had not thought about that having never worn heavy armor myself. I stepped over to talk to Gillfort. I asked him what sort of druid he was, since there were so many more than I knew. He said that his order believes in setting up a natural shrine and tapping into the energy of nature through devoted prayers and careful tending of the garden area at the shrine. They almost always sought to grow holly as a feature of their shrine but it wasn’t the focus of the shrine. The shrine would be created as a reflection of the naturally beautiful things in the area already. One feature of their shrines would be the need for a cleared space to allow some sunlight in during the day. They did not want a place that stayed in the shadow of the leaves all the time.
I asked him what manner of druid he would expect to find in the oak forest where we were headed, if everything was as it was described to me. He said he didn’t really know but he had a few ideas. They could be dedicated to the spirit of the oak so they would want to make the forest a paradise for oak trees. In this case they would need to purge the forest of habitat for the sorts of insects that harm oaks and create habitat that benefitted the trees and themselves. They would try to open up the forest floor so the oaks could grow to their full potential and they would need enough room for the light each tree would want.
They might be more generally minded toward plants and then wish to create a good balance of flora. They would wish to again dispel habitat that encouraged certain insects but they would create a more varied ecology allowing for grasses to yield to pines, which would then yield to broad leaf plants and so on. A more aesthetically minded group may wish to create a garden from the forest. In this case ornamental trees would be found in abundance along with bushes and other shrubs.
Another, very unlikely variety of druid, finds beauty in evergreens. They are often very powerful because they always have an abundance of holly, the most powerful plant spirit that feeds the magic of the druids. They are often also very crafty because evergreens can grow thick among one another while broad leaf plants must spread out. The thick growth allows the druids to hide and use the plant spirits to entangle adversaries. But he opined that such a group was very unlikely to wish to begin with an oak forest to begin their work, although a powerful druid of their order may have sent them to the task as a pilgrimage in the wilderness; after all it is in your point of view what a wilderness really is. He concluded that if he were to find clues about the druids he would say something. I gave my excuses and rode out to have another look.
On the next rise I could see we were making good time. We were beginning to approach the spot where I fought my storied battle. I was going to have my new friends see the place where the battle occurred and tell of the event on the ground where it happened. It wouldn’t be much longer. I rode back to talk with Joseph and Manahem. They were in good spirits and talking as I approached. I slowed my horse and then dismounted to lead him again as I walked and talked. Joseph was telling Manahem about the people that lived in Pine Mill. He wanted to share their stories since Manahem would be making the trip to check on them and drop off supplies. I asked Manahem where he was raised and he said he was raised in Jinngoton, south of Stonebridge. I asked about the area and what his family did to earn money. He said the area was also wooded but was quite a bit more hilly than Stonebridge or Pines Mill. He said his father was a smith in the mill town making all manner of tools supporting the lumber jacks and mill workers as well as the community at large with lanterns, grills and other household goods. He was considered quite an artist for making iron fence, but little of his work was found in Jinngoton because it was too much a luxury for the townsfolk because iron was in short supply. And we approached the spot where I stopped the wagon before so I did so again.
I said, “Friends, this is the spot where it happened. My friend Joseph and I were walking and talking along this path just as we are today and I noticed through that space between the mounds a flock of birds take wing between here and the wood line. There being no appreciable wind or apparent reason for the birds to abandon their breakfast I took careful note to see what the unapparent reason might be. Then I saw the men approaching as they broke the shade of the trees and I could see they were approaching in a line abreast spaced more than a span apart, a formation I knew to be an unnatural way for men to move; a formation of men going into battle. I said something to Joseph and he retrieved his mace and made himself ready while I scanned the field. I counted the men at eight and watched how they moved. They all continued to move forward together in a coordinated manner indicating they were used to such and also indicating they likely had no archers among them. I looked at the men in the middle and picked out their leader easily for he was the only one wearing armor although a few of the others wore a piece. Their leader was dressed in leather armor with pauldrons and bracers.
I stopped them with a word at about fifteen paces. I chose fifteen paces because Joseph said he had a good spell at that range and he didn’t disappoint in that. I also chose fifteen paces because it was a distance where I might be able to engage one man before a second man could overrun me. I wasn’t sure but I thought we may have to retreat to the wagon to afford some protection for our flanks. Well the leader was brash, no doubt why he was their leader, a man of action. A shame really; for if he were a little more industrious, patient and respectful of others he could have been a leader in the militia or some such noble pursuit. But his laziness and impetuous manner led him to his life of crime.
“Well Joseph’s spell burned up the middle six of them, outright killing two of them, and this led to the first two bandits meeting each of us in single combat. Being bandits, rash and untrained, we each managed our own opponent, why right here and there. While this happened the other bandits were recovering up here.” I walked over to the spot where they had been set aflame. “I faced the bandit leader from where you’re standing and he was here so that I had to move uphill to him. I scared his brothers away, which isn’t so much as there is no honor among thieves. He was forced to face me alone. I believed if I killed him the others would have no more stomach for this fight. As I moved to close the distance I could see his leg had taken a bad burn and I thought to exploit that. I approached and jumped quickly to my right, away from his sword arm. He had trouble with his feet as I hoped he would and I lunged in to catch him with a stroke piercing his upper left arm. He raised his sword hand over to the wound in a natural reaction to the pain which exposed his whole right side. With my dagger in my left hand I pulled back on my sword and pivoted my hips which brought my dagger to his side under the ribs when I pressed in and down on the handle forcing the blade in and up. He immediately melted to the ground unable to stand and as my blade came free his blood poured and spewed all over me. Without regard for that I stepped back clear and brought my weapons up ready for the next attacker, but they were already walking back away from us. Joseph called out for them to surrender and he would heal them but they ran off.”
I bowed and said, “That’s how and where it happened.” And they looked on with approving nods. Then I said, “And this is where we part company from our friends of the Order. Joseph, Manahem, have you need of anything before we go?” And Joseph replied, “Bene, we will be fine, thank you.” I strode down to the group and clasped hands with the two of them and stepped away to take hold of the reigns of my horse. The others also in turn shook hands with our friends and waved them on. “This way, men.” And I led my horse up the slope toward the woods. At the top I scanned the ground in front of me. My escort was learning how to lead their mule off the path. They got into the rhythm of things and we continued northeast through a meadow. To my front was a large stand of trees. To my left was more meadow and my right was more meadow as well. This area had not been farmed in some time. Not knowing how thick the trees would be I guided our path favoring east a little in case going around the trees was the better choice. The cart would be a problem if the undergrowth was thick enough.
As we got closer to the trees I could see the undergrowth was indeed thick. I mounted my horse and told the party to continue around the edge of the woods as they were already and I would ride ahead and see if there were a good route for us. I rode ahead and out of their sight as I rounded the edge of the wood curving to me left. I found something I didn’t wish to find; the remains of the bandit camp and the three bandits that ran away. They had walked back to their camp and tried to nurse their wounds but they were unsuccessful. Some animals had already been by to feast on them; probably wolves, badgers and carrion fowl. A buzzard took flight as I approached and I had to pull something from my saddlebag to tie over my nose and mouth for the smell. My horse was unsettled so I led him away a bit and dismounted. Then I walked over to the campsite to inspect the bodies for any clues to their habits.
I pulled on their belts and retrieved their pouches and I looked about for any other containers that might have notes or trinkets that might help me make a connection to their past. There were no containers I could find. I checked in their tents and under the tarps and found nothing more of consequence. I did find three more beds, for eleven total, so there were three other companions in the party. I suspect they were women that stayed with these men and they carted off everything of value they could carry when the men died. There were many things missing from the campsite you would expect to find such as cookware and lanterns. I pulled down three tarps and brought them to my horse so I could bring them to the cart. If the weather changed we might be very glad to have them.
Inside the pouches I found only a few copper coins from the region and one trinket; a small wooden carving of a bear. It was a crude piece but I put it in my saddlebag anyway. There was also a crude map of the area with a note on the reverse side written by someone that signed the note Verogrim. The note read:
Marogred,
I know someday this map will make its way to you. I have hidden the key deep in the Dark Wood where only fools would look. Once you have it, take it to Malthinines' old stronghold. Remember the foot-eared dwellers. Next, remember the second parchment you will need is covered in water, yet it never loses its ink. Finally, as a friend, I tell you a cart will be necessary and four directions must be gathered to carry it. Know the winds and you will find the treasure. - Verogrim
I mounted my horse and looked about at the terrain for the right way to bring the cart. I spurred my horse and we headed back to the party. I told them I had found the bandit’s camp and they were dead or gone and handed down the tarps to be placed in the cart saying, “I hope we don’t need these but it would be nice to have them if we do.” Then I told them we should swing wide to the right of their camp and then turn north for a spell. I told them I would ride ahead and do a bit more reconnaissance. And with that I turned my horse to have another look.
I followed the course I wanted my companions to take. We were about an hour from the noon so I wanted to find a spot for us to have our noon meal. This would particularly include consideration for water. We should either have water at the place or be within an hour of the water so we may top off our containers after using what we carried. The best path for the cart would involve as little change in elevation as we might manage, but we could not take a path along a steep slope even if we were following the contour of the land for the cart would not ride well. I decided to ride up the low rise where I was and have a look around.
On top of the rise I could see much better how the land rose and fell. There were meadows and small stands of trees all about. There was no sign of cultivated land or a settlement; not even a lone dwelling. From my vantage point it appeared if we stayed on the course I had roughly intended earlier we would have easy going with the cart for the slopes were gentle enough. I wasn’t sure how much farther we would get in an hour so I rode ahead to find some water, and then I would ride back to ‘catch up’ with my party.
I rode on and could see clearly the carrion off to my left as they descended from the trees to feast on the three dead bandits. I could not see any flocks of birds in the air, only an occasional small bird on his way somewhere. The sky was a soft blue, a little vapor in the air softening the sky from the intense color it shared on the brightest days. There were wisps of clouds here and there but the sun shone brightly and it was becoming a warm day. I led my horse down the slope expecting to find water, either a small brook or a pool in the low area.
Close to the base of the hill there was a small brook heading north and east. The brook contained large and small stones that either rolled downhill or were uncovered by the water when the flow was swift. I wanted to give my horse a drink so I followed the flow to find a spot where the approach was gentle. This would also be the spot where I planned to cross the stream later. We rounded a mound and saw a pool just as I expected to find, but around the pool were a number of animals, a herd of some meadow grazing four footed beasts. I thought how different Jackwon and Gillfort might feel about running across such a scene. For now, I wanted only to give my horse a break. We rode slowly to the pool.
One of the beasts raised its head and must have noticed our movement for he let out a grunt and turned to trot away. The other members of his herd raised their heads, grunted in similar fashion and followed along after. I counted at least twenty of them. We approached and the land gave way gently to the water’s edge. My horse dipped his head and smelled the water and then took a few steps into it and had a good drink. I leaned back and had a good look around. There was evidence of some rodents that inhabited the prairie land here and there. A number of song birds were drinking and splashing about on the far bank. Everything was quite calm so I decided to come down and wash my face and have a drink as well.
I eased my horse out of the water and dismounted. I gave the bridle a little tug indicating to my horse he could return to his drinking. I walked a few paces up stream and knelt down on one knee so I might scoop water into my hand. I washed and had several handfuls of water to drink. I stood up and looked at the brook. It was sandy at the bottom and there were many rocks along the edge and in the water causing it to have a vibrant trickling water sound. It was hypnotizing and in the quiet seemed to drown out all other sounds. It reminded me of many afternoons in the area where I grew up.
I mounted my horse and we turned back to find my companions. On the way back my mind wandered and I thought how they needed to find a new name because the Troupe was unspectacular, a cliché and unworthy of Vallen and Jackwon. Both of these men had glorious stories to be written of their deeds and I thought I might have to correct that oversite. I eased my horse up a slope to my left so that I might have a good look around. I expected to see my companions if I could only climb to the right vantage point.
At the top of the rise I did indeed see them making steady progress. I stood high in the stirrups and waved to them. They waved back to me. I waved a sweeping gesture for them to come my way, and they waved back that they understood. I then eased my horse around and started in the direction of the pool. I looked about and found the nearest stand of trees. I urged my horse into a trot to go gather some firewood. We splashed over the water and up the opposite slope, and then on to the woods; a small stand of trees beyond.
I dismounted and stepped into the wood to gather the sticks I would need to make a fire for our group. The sticks were easy to find so that clearly travelers didn’t come this way often. I didn’t recognize the type of trees in this group and wanted to ask Gillfort about them. There were also squirrels and raccoons and birds nesting in the trees. I could hear their scurrying even if I couldn’t see them. After gather a good armload of wood I mounted my horse, which was not as easy as I would have hoped, and walked back over to the pool. We splashed over the water and I dismounted to make a fire.
I stomped a level spot in the ground and built a fire a respectable distance from the edge of the water. As the flames were really catching the party came within sight of me. Jackwon and Dravist hurried forward and Vallen came a little slower behind. Gillfort continued to lead the mule with the cart. Jackwon called out, “Well at least you’ve been making yourself useful riding along while we walk behind.” He appeared to be hurrying to have a drink and to relieve himself, and Dravist as well. I pointed to the other end of the pool some fifty strides beyond. I said “You can have a drink here but if you need to relieve yourself, Over there. We’re not pissing in our drinking water.” Jackwon hurried past me saying, “Good idea.”
Vallen stepped up and removed his gambeson and his swordbelt and stepped over to the water. I cleared my throat. He said, “I heard you. I just need a drink of water first.” And I smiled. I fussed over the fire and Gillfort walked up. I stood up and asked him to lead the cart a few steps toward the outfall of the pool, and then unhitch the mule and lead him down for a drink next to my horse. Gillfort said, “No problem, my lord.” And he smiled at me as he walked past. The others did their business and had a good drink from the pool. The fire was going well and I stepped over to the cart. I withdrew my sack and then began to see what sort of rations the quartermaster had loaded for us. I found a bag of biscuits and another of preserved meat. There was also a wheel of cheese, which I believe was something special and not part of the normal soldier’s rations. I found a wooden box and checked inside to find the usual cookwear a small group might need. They thought carefully about this for me when they loaded this cart. I was going to make a point of complimenting the sergeant and the quartermaster when I returned.
I picked up what I could carry and left the rest in a neat pile on the ground. Setting down at the fire, I threw in a few more sticks and then set up a stake where we might be able to set a pot to boil water. I filled the kettle and placed it over the fire. As the others were returning I asked them to grab the other bags and bring them over. Jackwon seemed unsettled and I decided I should get straight to it so I asked, “Jackwon, what is bothering you?” He shifted his weight and offered, “Well, on the trail, this is the first time I wasn’t in charge of the campfire and the campsite. These other fellows aren’t so used to living away from their villages and settlements.” I asked, “Well what do you see? Have you any advice?” He replied, “Advice, no, not advice from me. You’re the first city man I’ve seen that could make a campfire without being told what to do.” I replied with a smile, “Well, I suppose I’m not the city man you think I am. You see I grew up in Tahgrum and I spent many days, a week or two at a time in my late teens and early twenties, camping and hunting in the woods just to the north of that town. I am well acquainted with life in the woods.” Jackwon said, “Early twenties? In Tahgrum? Why how old are you?” I smiled and turned my face to look at him. “Jackwon, I am thirty-three. Half Elves live long lives by human standards so it is normal for us to remain home for longer before setting out if we choose.” Jackwon opened his eyes wide. It appeared he was surprised, didn’t know much about other races, and guessed I was quite a bit younger. “Why you don’t look as old as a new man from my village. I’ve heard of Tahgrum. That is near the elves, isn’t it?” And I replied, “Why yes, and that is why I am a half-elf. Our community is a blend of both the elven community to the north and the human community of Confernos.”
I asked the others if they could fill a few buckets of water for our needs and prepared a meal for us. I brewed some tea even though it was a warm day. I had become fond of tea after riding with the caravan and wanted to share that with my friends. Other than the tea we had no need to cook anything but we did pull out some plates and knives to cut the meat and cheese. I wanted them to eat something from the trees so I had selected some peach preserves. We buttered our biscuits and put preserves on them. We separated the meat and had a bit of the salty stuff. We enjoyed some cheese and then the tea. When I poured the tea, I had them wait a moment. I opened my old cloth bag and produced the jar of honey and allowed them to sweeten their tea with the honey. I said “This is my special treat for you on this trip. I purchased the honey just before we left.” Dravist said, “Bene, I’d come along with you anywhere.”
I sat back to enjoy my tea and asked, “How much do you know of this life, being an Adventurer?” Dravist responded, “Well not much more than the adventure we had with those Kobolds and the living outdoors we’ve had most of the rest.” I replied, “I see. How about you, Gillfort?” Gillfort responded, “I know how to live outdoors but I’ve not killed anything before the Kobolds myself. Our wise men would tell stories of ogres, and wild boar and other fantastic beasts. I’ve learned something about being an adventurer from them.” And I turned to Jackwon, “Why I believe with your village you had quite a tradition of hunting and camping. What else do you know about it?” Jackwon said, “Except for the hunt, I’ve not killed anything else either other than the Kobolds. But I did face down a pack of wolves once after a successful hunt. They were not as successful as we and their hunger was their undoing. That is how I came by this cape. The two wolves were killed by me on the trip. I have looked into the eyes of a ravenous beast and did what I had to do.”
Jackwon continued, “It is this talk about dealing with undead in Eros that bothers me. Beasts are one thing for they still have to abide the laws of nature. But the things I have heard about undead are so unnatural. They can move without walking and they can live through being struck full with the sword. But I am bound to face such devils to earn my place in the tribe. I must return with my deeds proven for the sake of the stability of my village. My father did it and he had always told me my day would come as well. His father, my grandfather, had to take power because there was no rightful heir. According to the stories he had to kill four other tribesmen to become chief. If I do not come back an heir, there will be a fight between my uncle, my cousin and me and any other man in the tribe that wishes to become the leader. We are not so numerous that we can waste good warriors on squabbles, but that is our way.”
And it became quiet and I turned to Vallen and nodded my head. Vallen spoke up, “I know of the terrors that adventurers face. Wild beasts are strong but they live for themselves and understand their mortality. I venture those wolves you wear were near their last breath to face you for a meal. They looked at you and knew they were up against a superior foe. They don’t understand bravery. They don’t understand society as we do. In the moment they fight for their belly or their den and their young. They can be persuaded to give up the fight under the right circumstances.”
He went on. “No, the monsters we may face are something else altogether. Undead, yes, they violate nature with their abomination of their creation. They fight with extra-worldly power. But it is their masters that we need to beware of. For their masters command the abdominal power and would turn any of us into one of their servants with pleasure. They are in league with the dark forces that are spoken of in hushed tones in private room by men with stout hearts, and there are tremors in their voices if they speak from experience. And undead are by far not the worst things we could face. Demons, evil giants, trolls, swarms of orucai, golems, dragons, chimera, cyclops, evil drow in their subterranean lairs or even the Drow queen, and enormous spider woman wielding spells and venom. There are many terrors out there. If you walk the path I am on, you will see your share of all these things should I live so long.”
I wanted to bring the mood up again without being flippant. “Well, I shouldn’t think we’ll see anything so fearsome on this trip to visit a few druids. I thought we might have to scare off a bear or something with this cart full of food, but I’m not looking to face down a goblin army.” Having finished my tea, I stood up and stretched. I knelt down and put a few things back in their bags and went to put the cookware away. I asked the other to clean everything up and wash the plates and pack up. I walked over to the cart and placed the bags away. I called for Gillfort to come help with the mule.
We got the mule out of the shallow water and led him back to the cart. Gillfort had a good manner for handling the mule. I asked if that was something from his childhood or from his craft as a druid. He replied it was both. He chose to be a druid because of his affinity with animals and nature. I asked why not a ranger and he replied with an edge of scorn, “Why no, not at all. They are altogether a different sort. They are hunters not caretakers. They live off the land not for the land. You know. You know of the elves and their ways. You understand, don’t you?” And I replied, “Well, I know they are a different bunch from druids. But I don’t have so much experience with druids.” I didn’t tell him I had loads of experience with elven rangers and I especially didn’t want to bring up my friend Flint. As a matter of fact, among the elves I couldn’t recall a single druid. There were plenty of rangers and clerics, the elves even had their sorts of paladins and rogues and wizards. I couldn’t remember ever meeting a druid before I met Gillfort. I suddenly felt that was strange. Surely there were druids that passed through Tahgrum, but I couldn’t recall ever meeting one of them. Perhaps I thought they were a ranger or a cleric.
Everything put away, the mule strapped in, I mounted my horse and said, we should take the cart across the pool over there. I’ll ride ahead and see what path we should take from here. And with that I rode my horse through the pool and up the opposite bank along the path I wanted them to use. I rode ahead to get a good look around. My hope was to reach the edge of the great oak woods before making camp, but I remembered a remark about water being scarce in the wood, so I wanted to take care to manage our water on this trip since we also had the mule to think about.
As I reached the top of the next rise I stopped and looked back to see the party had cleared the pool and were walking steadily with the mule and cart in this direction. I turned to survey the area and selected a course mostly north. With the sun high overhead I urged my horse forward wondering how warm it might be today. There was no sign of a worn path so it appeared there were no usual human travel in the area.
I aimed for the left edge of a stand of trees that filled a low area between a few mounds. I believed there was a pool or spring in that area able to support the trees growth. As I closed the distance I could see these were evergreen trees. A little closer still and I could see a haze hung in the branches. I became curious about this stand of trees. I rode close enough to see the species of trees and gazed into the forest as best I could to see about the animals. Except for a few birds and bird calls I couldn’t identify anything but it appeared quite normal otherwise except for the haze. I thought I smelled wood smoke and wondered if there was a hermit living within. I decided this was far enough away from the party so I decided I would ride back and let them know where we were going.
On the ride back I tried to make sure I had picked out a fairly level path for the cart. When I rounded a slope I could see they had made good progress. I rode down to them and wheeled my horse to walk alongside them. “We’ll head around this rise and follow the contour of the land as best we can. There is a patch of trees I’d like to skirt just to the left side. It looks like there may be a pool of water as the trees lie in a low area. I’m going to run back ahead and have a look. I hear there is little water where I would like for us to camp tonight so finding water on the way may be important. There are signs someone like a hermit may be living in that patch of trees. I’m going to have a look.” And with that I eased my horse forward in a cantor to have a look at the woods. By the time I arrived there, the party would be much closer and I would feel better about it.
Back at the stand of trees I dismounted and tied my horse to a branch of a small tree. I had my weapons and armor so there was nothing I needed from my saddle bags except my small water skin. However, I decided to get my pack and throw that over my shoulders since I had no idea who or what I may find. I stepped into the trees and the light level dropped quickly as did the temperature. I was reminded of how much I enjoyed walking through the trees. Being outside without the sun beating down on me was something I remembered fondly from my youth.
A few strides into the woods and it cleared out because the sun was unable to provide light to the undergrowth. A thick bed of needles also inhibited the growth of many plants. I grabbed a piece of cloth from my pouch and tied it to a branch about eye level. This would help me find my horse on the way out. I walked in further. The ground descended ever so little as I headed forward so that folks without my experience in the wilds growing up would likely not have noticed. I may not have noticed either except I was looking for the pool I thought should be here.
A little further in and the forest floor cleared out even more as the smaller trees gave way to larger trees. I looked about and gaged where the slope was leading me. I turned around to see if I could see any good landmarks to my horse and there was nothing of note. I removed another piece of cloth, a dingy white small sack, and hung that on a branch about eye level again. I moved forward seeking the pool. About forty or fifty feet further I stopped because the smell of smoke was again evident, or maybe it was the smell of burned wood. I tried to gage the wind or draft of air; where was it coming from? I used an outdoorsman’s technique and made a flame, and blew it out quickly. The tiny trail of smoke moved with the draft showing me from which way the smell was coming. I looked in that direction and I was sure there was someone else in these trees with me.
Down slope was in front of me but the smell was coming from my right. Since the smoke smell was more important to my safety, I began heading in that direction. The smell of smoke meant I almost certainly was not up against a wild beast. I was thinking, “Should I just call out or should I prefer to try to remain concealed?” I opted for the latter. I was a woodsman after all and knew how to handle myself in the woods. But I was also in his lair.
Another fifty to seventy feet and I could see the first indications of human evidence. There were two spars lashed to trees ahead. They were about eight to ten feet apart, running parallel. The higher one was a little over my height off the ground and the lower one was about the height of my elbow off the ground. They looked to be five to six inches in width. This was the making of two roof supports. An army on the move would throw a canvass over the two and have a well draining roof that would serve for four days to a week. A settler might be thinking of making a roof of sticks over the supports. A hermit would be doing who knows what with them. For once a man cuts himself off from human contact he becomes something like an animal.
I was standing very still and looking for signs of movement and I was again thinking about calling out. It is one thing to sneak up on someone in the woods, and it is another thing to sneak into someone’s campsite. I decided I’d get a little closer. I also wanted to get another perspective on the spot so I stepped quietly to my left and ahead so I was getting closer to the site and the bottom of the slope where I hoped to find water at the same time. I was now a third closer to the campsite and I could see the spars very well now. Just as I was preparing to stop I was startled by a pair of squirrels that ran up their tree only five or six feet away from me. I looked up at the squirrels and they looked back from a safe height and I imagined a curse for my fright.
I could see the spars well enough but I couldn’t see any other indication of a campsite. I couldn’t see a makeshift roof or a fire ring or any collection of cookware of stockpile of wood or any of the things you find in a campsite. I listened carefully and heard the usual bird songs and an occasional flitter of forest floor as a rodent moved through the needles. I crouched down on one knee and let my pack down. I brought my water skin to my lips and had a drink. I replaced the stopper and listened again. I thought about my options and where this character might be. I figured it could be anywhere but if it were me I would be either checking traps, fetching water or gathering edible plants. My best chance for finding this fellow would be to head to the water and I figured I needed to go that way anyway. I stood and slipped my pack up on my shoulders in one motion and turned to my left. And there he was walking back to the campsite from down slope. I heard him just before I could see him.
I froze and watched him walking. He was about my height with dark skin. His clothes were grey and brown and his hair and beard were as wild as they could be. He wore a hat with a wide brim. He was approaching and headed to my right a little as if the center of the campsite was his goal. He walked easily and was very comfortable in these surroundings. He was carrying a sack over his shoulder. I waited a little and thought about my options. I decided I’d play the bard so I cleared my throat and he froze in his tracks and snapped his head in my direction. Since I was motionless I don’t believe he saw me at first. I called out, “Hello there my friend.” And he found me for sure. He put his sack down and just stared at me. I held my hands out on either side of me so he could see I had nothing in them. He was far enough away that if he charged I could easily draw my rapier.
He just stared and didn’t say anything so I called out again. “Do you speak my language? I am looking for water and thought there should be some over that way”, and I indicated the down slope direction. “Is there water over there?” He straightened up and called back. “You looking for water? In here? Theys water out there.” And he indicated also in the direction of down slope but with a finger pointing. He was indicating some place far way I believed, but mostly he was pointing away from his campsite. I held up my hands in a “what?” gesture and said “I was hoping to be able to get water right here. We have a mule and he will need water today before we get where we are going. [I sort of hedged the truth a little on that] We can’t bring him in here so I was going to bring water to him at the edge of the woods.
He called back, “Well you just go on and git. Go water your mule somewheres else.” I replied, “Hey, I understand you don’t want anyone poking around your campsite …” And with that he hunched down again and grabbed his bag in his hand. “Look friend, I’ve been a woodsman for a time myself. I bet I have something you would like in my pack. Let’s talk.” And I remembered that I had my tocco pouch and some spices. I said, “Do you have a tocco pipe? I have some tocco to share. What do you think? Let’s sit down and talk.”
He started stepping to his left (my right) getting closer to his campsite all the while keeping his attention on me. I dropped my pack back to the ground and knelt down so I could watch him while I retrieved my tocco pouch and pipe. He was getting closer and closer to his campsite slowly and I filled and lit my pipe. He stepped into his campsite, or about where I thought it would be, and I stood up. He dropped his bag and found something he wanted and then began to move in my direction. I just watched him and smoked my pipe.
He cut the distance between us in half and I said, “Well, you best stop right there.” And he stopped. I could see he had a good woodsman’s knife in his right hand and I wasn’t going to let him get so close he could charge me. I put my pipe in the left side of my mouth and I drew my rapier and held it down in an unthreatening manner. “Friend, I’m not sure about your intentions and while I’m looking to have a sit down with you and share some of my spices; for I know a woodsman can gather the food he needs but without spice it can be a dull diet, I’m not going to let you rob me. My friends would not think so much of my woodsman’s skills if I let that happen. Now how about you go put that knife away. I’ve not made any overtures against your life, have I?”
He thought for a moment and I puffed on my pipe. He said, “What kine a spices you got?” I replied, “Well I have plenty of salt, some rosemary, black pepper, mint.” He said, “I ain got no pipe. But you can give me that salt.” I puffed and replied, “No, but I’ll give you some salt if you’ll agree to sit down for a chat. Do you have a pouch for some salt?” He glanced down at his belt and then back at me. “No, I ain got no pouch. But I got a box. C’mon, you.” And he began to back up. I figured I was making some progress, so I followed slowly allowing the distance to stay the same between us.
He backed up all the way into his campsite. He had a small chest there I couldn’t see from a distance. I guessed that might be all his worldly possessions. He knelt by the chest and opened it up while facing my direction. He fished out a small wooden container and tossed it to me. I let it fall to the forest floor. I puffed on my pipe and I knelt down. I said, “Well, you’re going to have to put that knife down before I let go of this.” And I raised my sword hand a little. He put the knife on top of the chest and let it go. I stuck my rapier in the forest floor and reached into my pack while he watched me like a hawk. I produced a small leather pouch and raised the wooden box. I poured a little salt into the box. I put my pouch away. I put the lid onto the box, and I placed the box on the ground at my arms reach.
His eyes flashed and he grabbed his knife, started to stand and said, “Now you just …” And in a flash I was leaping in his direction with my rapier out. Before he could back up, I had my rapier a few inches from the center of his chest. I said, “Look, I’ve had enough of your orders. If I wanted something from you I could have run you through just now. Drop that knife.” And with fear and anger in his expression he let go of the knife. I said, “Take two steps back.” He stepped back. I stepped forward and slowly crouched and picked up his knife. I backed up two steps and I set his knife on the ground immediately next to his chest. I continued, “Now, walk slowly around me to your left. I’m going to let you pick up your box and we’re going to come back here. I’m going to sit down on this chest and you’re going to sit down over there and we’re going to talk. I’ll let you keep the salt for your time. I’ve been a woodsman and I know the value of salt to you. So be happy I’m a generous man. Understand?” He said, “Yes. Yes.” And slowly we did just that. He walked slowly over and picked up his box. Then he walked slowly back. I picked up my pack and came to sit on his chest. He sat some distance from me leaning against a tree.
I put my pack down and stuck my rapier in the forest floor once again. I reopened the conversation. “Good day. I am Bene Timber, a bard from the east. Who are you my dear fellow?” He paused and replied, “I’m Gough.” I asked, “Where are you from, Gough?” He said, “I came from Rottscald.” I replied, “Rottscald? I’ve heard of it. What is it like?” He paused and said, “It’s nothing. Dirty. That’s why I left.” And I asked, “Where’d you go from Rottscald?” He replied, “I went to a couple places. Dirty places. I decided I’d juss come live out here.” I thought about that reply.
“What was your profession before you became a woodsman?” He replied, “I was a carpenter. I was a soldier. Now I’m a, … a woodsman.” I replied, “I see. You grew tired of being a carpenter?” He replied, “Yea.” I said, “You grew tired of being a soldier?” He paused and looked a little over past me and said, “Yea.” At this I figured he was a deserter. He knew some things about soldiering for I could see in the way he moved his feet when we faced off. I could also see that he tied his lashings in a very precise manner. But he wasn’t much of a woodsman, more of a soldier. I wasn’t sure what to do with him. I temporized. “How long have you been out here?” He paused and said, “Coupla years.” I smiled at him, “I’d guess four or five at least with that beard of yours. So what unit were you in, when you were a soldier.” He paused again and looked over past me, and then he said, “I don’t remember.” I smiled even broader, “Don’t remember? Why you know I can’t believe that. Every soldier remembers his unit. And I can see you were pretty good at it. Why look at those lashings? Those were done in a good soldier’s manner. So what unit did you serve in?” He thought for a minute. “I really can’t remember. Five years is a long time.” I stood slowly and stepped to my left. I drew my dagger in my left hand and put my hand on the small chest. I said, “Is the answer in here?”
“Now you juss keep yourself outta my things you thief.” And he rocked forward onto the balls of his feet. I reached for my rapier and said, “Now you just hold on there, Captain. You just ease yourself back down.” And he rolled his weight back and sat. “Now are you going to tell me what I want to know or am I going to have to make this painful for you. I’m pretty sure you’re a deserter. Now I don’t really care. I don’t think the soldiers are missing you too much. So there’s no point in me trying to report you to anybody ‘casue I don’t think they care enough to come up here and find you. But we can be friends. You can do me favors and I can bring you salt if that’s what you’d like. But not if I can’t trust you to tell me the truth. Now which unit did you serve with?” He got mad and blurted out, “I was in the third Bears! Darn poff!” I shook my head with a thin grin. “You fellows like that word around here. The last fellow that called me a poff is dead. I killed him. I didn’t kill him for calling me a poff but I did kill him. Would you like me to show you how I killed him? Do you want your knife back?” He stood up and looked me in the eye. If I had my sword, yea, I’d let you show me how you killed him, or maybe I’d show you something. You’re all talk because you got weapons and armor.”
“Well, you’re right. I do have weapons and armor. And you don’t. And I’ve just about had it with you. So be it. Leave your box of salt right there. C’mon. We’re going. I’ve run out of time anyway.” I motioned for him to walk to my right back where I came from. I was going to lead him out to my horse and then I was going to ride away. He began walking and I followed and guided him back to the edge of the woods, finding my two markers on the way out. Just as I figured, my party was now waiting for me at my horse. I had used up too much time fooling around with this fellow, Gough.
As we broke the cover of the woods, Vallen immediately drew his sword when he saw this pitiful fellow. Jackwon saw he wasn’t carrying any weapons and just stepped forward. I said, “Sorry fellows. I wasted some time talking with this fellow, Gough. He has a campsite in these trees. I thought he might give us some information to help our journey but he isn’t much of a talker, at least to me. Gough, take another five steps over there and sit down.” He walked away from the trees another five steps and sat down with his back to me. I motioned for Vallen to step behind him and I walked around to face him. I motioned for Jackwon to come over by me.
“Gough, would you like me to ask these fellows if they can get the information I want? The information you didn’t want to give to me? Would you give it to them, instead?” Gough said, “So you’d torture and murder me too?” At that, I lost my temper. I made a very quick swipe motion with my rapier and a pile of his unkept hair came down as his hat sailed off to my right. I said, “Torture, maybe, but not murder. I’d just assume tie you to one of these trees and come check on you in a few days. I imagine I’d get anything I wanted from you then.” Gough brushed the hair from his face and head. He looked over to his hat. Then he looked up at me. “OK, what do you want, Bene Timber?” Jackwon broke in and said, “Whew Bene, what have you got here?” I replied, “I believe he is a deserter from the third Bear, whoever the hell they are. This one, Gough here, is full of piss and vinegar.” Vallen exclaimed, “A deserter!” and he stepped closer. I held up my hand, “Well I don’t have proof of that but a trip back to Stonebridge would probably settle that riddle. Gough, where did we leave off?” He replied, “I believe we left off at the part where the Poff wasn’t going to let me have a sword to defend myself.” And Vallen smacked him on the back of his head with his gauntlet.
Vallen said, “Sorry Bene. It was a reflex action. What do you want to do with him?” I replied, “Well, I’m pretty stuck. I don’t have two days to take him back right now. And I don’t want to take him with us. But I’m afraid he has crossed the line and we gotta do something with him, and I know you won’t let us do what either Jackwon or I might want to do. So I guess we’re stuck with him.” At this, Gillfort stepped up and said, “Beg your pardon, my lord, but could we tie him up and have him ride in the cart.” I replied, “Yes, Gillfort, I believe that is exactly what we need to do. I just hate to add this distraction to our travels. OK, let’s tie him up. And I stepped away to my horse and let the others manage that. As they finished up, I picked up his hat and put it on his head. Then I grabbed a coarse sack and pulled it over his head. I asked them, “Tie that secure but don’t let him suffocate. Vallen, can you secure him in the cart? I’d like Jackwon and Gillfort to come back into the woods with me.” Vallen replied, “I’m sure we can get him in the cart for you.” With that I replied, “We won’t be long.”
It was getting late in the afternoon. I was scaling back my plans for where we might sleep tonight. The three of us went into the trees. “Gillfort, tell me what you notice about this stand of trees. Is there anything you notice? You too, Jackwon. I know you’ve spent long days outdoors. Tell me if you notice anything unusual about these trees. He has a campsite over this way. I want to retrieve his stuff and have a look through his things.” We walked to his campsite, picked up the small box and the chest. The three of us had a good look around. We couldn’t find anything else of note and between the three of us we should have found anything that should be found. I mentioned, “He was walking to this campsite from over that way. I believe there is water down there, so he was probably either fetching water or returning from washing off.” Jackwon said, “There’s only half a campsite here. Maybe there is another campsite down further over there.” I said, “Maybe so, but we don’t have time for that. Let’s just take the box and get going.” We walked back out to Vallen and Dravist.
We put the chest in the cart and I kept the salt. I mounted my horse and asked, “Is everyone ready to move?” “Let’s go.” And I urged my horse forward as we guided around the western side of these trees. It was getting late in the afternoon and I was planning on stopping when we found the next pool of water. We didn’t go far to crest the next rise and there appeared to be another brook at the base of this hill. We eased ourselves down the slope and stopped to water the mule and my horse. We all had a good drink and I figured we could make it to the next one. Do up I got on the horse and off we went. We crested another rise and looked out and the land in front of us was very flat and as far off as I could see it appeared there might be the edge of the great woods we were seeking. I thought about it and figured it might be three or four hours to the trees. We had about two hours of good light and another hour of fading light. But the terrain gave no indication of water from here to there.
I turned and faced my party. “I wanted to camp over there tonight. That’s three or four hours from here. It would be dark when we arrived. I’m also not sure there is any water between here and there, and I’m pretty sure there is no water there. Our water is supposed to be about a half day’s journey beyond there. I hate to add a day to our trip by not getting there tonight, but it will be a hard day for us. What do you think?” Jackwon said, “Aw, we can make that. We’ve got water in the cart.” Dravist said, “Whatever you want to do Bene, is OK with me.” Vallen said, “Yes, if you want to make the woods we’re with you.” And Gillfort said, “Yes, and the animals have just finished a good drink. They can make it OK.” I smiled and said, “Alright. Let’s go.” And we started forward.
After the first two hours it looked like we had covered more than half the distance and the light was changing from good light to fading light. I looked back and said, “You fellows just keep coming straight ahead. I’m going to rise ahead and make a fire and pick a site for us. See you when you get there.” And I rode off for the woods quickly. I arrived at the edge of the woods and this was indeed a great oak forest. I dismounted and found a good spot for us. I went into the woods to gather a good armload of firewood. I brought it out and returned twice more. With this healthy stack of sticks, I built a fire which would help the party find me. Unfortunately it would help anyone find me, but I needed to take that chance. Next I broke out some of my kit and began to boil water for tea. A few moments later the party arrived with the cart.
I asked Gillfort to see to the animals. I asked Jackwon to see to our guest. He asked, “Where do you want him?” I scuffed the earth and said, “Right here.” Jackwon laughed a little and said to Gough, “C’mon. You’re not going to like this I figure.” I asked Dravist to get out the cook kit and tonight’s food. I asked Vallen to come over to talk with me. I reached into my saddlebag and found the pouches I picked up from the bandits earlier. I told him I wanted to talk to everyone about this tonight around the fire, but with our guest I didn’t want to share this information. I opened the pouches. “Here’s what I found on the bandits.” Vallen looked at the coins and the bear carving and said, “So what?” Then I showed him the letter and the map. “Hmmm. I guess you don’t know either of these names do you, Bene?” I replied, “No I don’t.” Vallen said, “Looks like quite a riddle. Is this what we’re here for?” I replied, “No, not that. We’re here because of this.” And I showed him my sketch of the pendent.
“I saw this pendent after I arrived in Stonebridge. I asked some of the governor’s men about it and they don’t know anything about it. I showed it to my mentor, Andante; you met him last night. Andante sent me up here to find out if the druids that live in this forest know anything about it. You don’t happen to know anything about a pendent that is shaped like this, do you?” Vallen stroked his chin and replied, “No, my lord, I do not. It doesn’t even relate to anything I’ve been told about.” I replied, “That’s what I figured. Me neither. And we bards are the best educated on lore of this sort in general, so that leads me to conclude this is something very special. So we’re going into the woods to find out about this pendent but this letter puts us right in the thick of things for another mystery. I’m going to need you to keep your eyes and ears open, but don’t talk to the others about it. I need you to know what is going on because I keep having to step away from the party and I may need you to manage them for me if I have to be away too long.” Vallen held his hand to his heart and said, “You can count on me, my lord.” And he bowed his head slightly and then looked up into my face. I nodded and put the things away. We walked over to the campsite.
“Vallen, see if Jackwon needs any help. Dravist, how are you doing?” Dravist replied, “Well my lord, I’m not much of a cook. I got the box down but I don’t know what food to pull out for us.” I looked for a few things in the cart and pulled out what we needed. I said to Dravist, “How are you with tents?” He replied, “About like I am with pots, Bene.” I replied, “Well you gotta learn sometime. Boil water in that pot. We’ll put the dried beans in there and make a porridge. We can throw some meat in and heat it all up and eat it like a stew. It won’t be the tastiest thing but it will give us food in our bellies.” With that Gillfort was finished with the animals. “Gillfort, can you work with Dravist on cooking?” He replied, “Sure, Bene.”
“Vallen, Jackwon, could you fellows set up the tarps for the rest of you? I have my own.” Vallen replied, “Yes, my lord.” And with that the two of them went to get the tentage from the cart. I threw a few more sticks on the fire and got my tent stuff from my horse. I had my tent up in a flash and had a ground cloth down and two blankets. I threw a couple more sticks on the fire and went to retrieve the chest we picked up in Gough’s campsite. I brought it over to the campfire where we had light. I sat on a stout log and opened the chest. I heard Gough say something irreverent. I asked Jackwon, “Jackwon, Vallen won’t do it. Please smack Gough for me.” Jackwon laughed a little and said, “Yes sir.” [Smack] Vallen said, “My lord, please. Don’t mock me so. My vows …” I called back, “You’re right, Vallen. But I’m just a bard. He has the look of a percussion instrument, don’t you think?” Vallen replied, “My lord! Please.” I responded, “OK, I’ll try to do better.”
I looked into the contents of the chest and found, luckily, a mirror. It was a small hand mirror. But that allowed me to reflect the light of the campfire into the chest to have a better look. There was a stone for blades, a knife, fork and spoon, soldier gear type stuff. There was a pouch with many coins. In the main compartment there were two bowls, a smaller and a larger one. There was also a wooden plate. There was a fire making kit and several pieces of leather. There was a pipe, but nothing to smoke. I guess he had smoked his stuff long ago. There was a fine tunic in good condition. This is what he most certainly didn’t want me to find for it confirmed he served in the army, and he wasn’t just a lowly soldier. He had some authority based on the extravagance of this tunic. There were two other street shirts and a pair of cloth pants, socks and gloves. There were no shoes. I guess he had worn out his shoes some time ago. I was still bothered there were no blankets or tarps found among his things, so I believe they were still somewhere in those trees. Then I had a look at his knife. It had a bone handle and was set with three metal pins. It was well made and he kept it in good condition. It was sharp enough to shave with even if he had given up shaving years ago. I wonder if it was to serve as a better disguise or if he just decided it was unnecessary. Except for the tunic there was nothing extraordinary about the contents of the chest. I put everything away and closed the lid. I stood up to check on dinner.
Dinner was coming along. The water had boiled and they had the beans soaking. I asked Gillfort if he knew how to recognize wild onion? He said he sure did. I asked him to get some since there was plenty in the field we crossed. He went off with a lantern. Vallen and Jackwon had finished their tent duty. “Get your mugs fellows. I’ve got some more tea.” They went to their packs and retrieved their drinking mugs. I put some tea leaves in the extra pot and swirled them around. I poured the tea and shared some of my honey. I spelled Dravist and he got his mug and had some tea too. I asked him to add some more water to that pot and we could enjoy some more tea.
Gillfort returned and we added the onion to the beans. We added the meat and after a spell we had enough porridge for all of us. I retrieved a bowl and a spoon from Gough’s box and allowed him to have a serving without any meat. I asked who would feed Gough and Vallen said he would after nobody else volunteered. I went to my stuff and produced my spices including salt and black pepper. We ground up just a tiny bit and sprinkled it over ours. I asked Dravist if he would pray over our meal and give thanks for our safety this day. Dravist did just that. Vallen walked over with Gough’s empty bowl and said, “Bene, you didn’t want to become a cleric?” I smiled at Vallen and said, “No, I didn’t. Do you need me to smack Gough a few times to show you why?” Vallen replied, “No, I’ll take your word for it, my lord.”
So we sat down and talked a bit and I asked who was going to watch over our guest tonight. They divided up the night and I took the last bit before everyone was expected to get up. With the cleaning done, we turned in except for Dravist, because he had the first watch. I could see it would be a cold night because the stars were out. With no cloud cover, the earth would shed its heat. It was going to be a chilly morning.
51st Planting, 221
The morning came too early for me since I had the last watch. Vallen stumbled over to his tent and rolled in. He was asleep in only a moment based on his slow heavy breathing. He was tired from a long sunny day of walking with his armor on. I grabbed my blanket and threw it around my shoulders and stood up. I pitched a few sticks on the fire. Then I walked over to Gough and made sure he was just like we left him. What a shame. I wanted to use him as a spotter and check on him now and then. I’d have paid him in spices for just telling me what he had seen since the last time I came for a visit. I didn’t care he was a deserter as long as he could serve me. But his die was cast. He was probably living his last days. When we returned to Stonebridge I would turn him over to the guard. They’d find out who the third bears were and then he would be tried and executed for desertion, or maybe sent to hard labor. But I couldn’t try and execute him for that out here. I didn’t have the means to try him, and I wasn’t too sure about the authority either. They didn’t cover that in Emissary school.
I stepped away from the camp into the darkness and took care of my needs. I walked back and got my water skin, the large one, and washed the sleep from my eyes. I put it away and retrieved my journal writing things and sat down. I began to write about the previous day and the discovery of the dead bandits. I wrote about the path we chose to come here and the encounter with a deserter in the stand of trees. I wrote about the terrain mentioning that once we left the hills, or mounds, for they were not much for hills, we left our water resources behind as well. And I wrote that we passed the night quietly. The morning had come with a chill just as I expected. The sky was clear and I could see the stars and identify several constellations.
I put my writing things away and pulled out my boiling pot. I filled it and set if over the fire. We had a long day ahead of us and I wanted to get my fellows up quickly and pleasantly with a cup of hot coffee. I rummaged through my pack and pulled out my pipe. I thought I’d enjoy a bowl of tocco while I watched the horizon. I pulled out everything and lit my bowl and put my things away. I stood up to throw a few sticks on the fire and as I sat down, quietly on the log, I heard a noise in the woods behind me. I swung my legs around and peered into the trees.
I heard the horse and the mule make agitated sounds and turned my head a little in that direction. I slowly stood up and pulled my dagger as I continued to peer into the trees. I stepped quietly over to the animals to see if I could see anything from over that way. I approached my horse from near the tail but took care to swing wide and placed my hand on his flank so he would know where I was. Never get behind a horse that doesn’t know you are there.
I spoke softly to him to ease their minds. He just pawed at the ground walking a step forward and then a step back as his lead wouldn’t allow him much more than that. We stayed like that for several minutes; me with my dagger drawn, legs flexed, eyes scanning into the trees and one hand touching my horse. Then I heard the sound of whatever I was facing.
It was big, but so far it was invisible. My dark vision was not helping me see through the thick undergrowth at the edge of the forest. I could hear it take a few steps in the dry leaves. I kept thinking it, but maybe it was them. I didn’t want the horse and mule to be caught defending themselves while tied up, but I feared if I loosed them they would be gone and I’d lose a whole day rounding them up. I decided to take a chance on that and I called out, “Vallen, Gillfort, Dravist, Jackwon; you guys need to get up. We’ve got trouble. You guys hear me? You need to get up and arm yourselves. There are animals in the wood and they want something, and I don’t think I can scare them off myself. You fellows hear me?”
Jackwon called back, “Yea, I hear you.” He sounded half way between me and the others, and then he was right next to me peering into the trees. “Can you hear it … them? What do you think? Stay here with the animals. I’m going to get the others up.” Jackwon was in full alert with a sword in one hand and an axe in his other hand. I eased backwards and then eased to my left. As I got closer to the fire I whispered in a loud whisper, “Gillfort, Dravist, Vallen, wake up! Now! We’ve got a problem. Quick arm yourselves.” Gillfort was next awake enough to understand what was happening. I said, “Go get the mule and bring him over here and secure him to a stake. Then get my horse and do the same. There is something in the woods spooking them. We need to defend from the fire. Now go!” And he stepped forward to get the mule. “Vallen, Dravist, get up!” Dravist was awake and holding his mace. I said to him, “Keep an eye on Gough until I can get Vallen up. Just stay here and keep an eye on him.” Gough was awake already. He called out, “Hey, what, you’re going to leave me tied up?!!” He was in a bit of a panic. I ignored him. He continued to plead with Dravist, but he wasn’t having any of it either.
I stepped over to Vallen’s tent and shook his shoulder. “Vallen, Vallen, you got to wake up.” Vallen rolled over and swiped at my hand. “Vallen, we’re being stalked by some animal or animals. You need to get up and arm yourself.” He responded, “Huh? What?” His head began to clear. “Bene, what?” I repeated myself and added, “Do you want to watch Gough or go over where Jackwon is trying to find it, them.” He was up on his feet, moving to Jackwon. Gillfort had brought the mule over and we secured him to a stake near the tents at the fire. The fire should ward of the hunters, we hoped. We went back over to get my horse. Gillfort untied my horse and began to lead him away. I told Jackwon and Vallen, “Let’s ease back over to the fire.” They followed.
Gillfort secured my horse to another stake. Then he stood in front of us looking into the forest. He made some odd noises, a combination of some grunts and some bird whistles and clicks with his mouth. Two bear emerged from the woods. They were large but under the circumstances I may have thought bear cubs were large. My adrenalin was pumping through me as much as anytime before. The hair on the back of my neck and my arms was standing up. I didn’t feel any chill.
Gillfort broke the standoff saying, “Fellows, we’ve got a problem. How we deal with these bear may well impact how we will need to deal with the druids later.” I thought, “How can you think about the druids right now?” But Jackwon put my thought into words, “Druids?!! Why lets just take them out. We’ve got the men here for it. What about the druids? Who cares? Are you saying we can’t kill these beasts?” I watched the bear and thought carefully. I didn’t want to lose one of us nor one of our beasts. I agreed with Jackwon. If we were to just take care of business, surely Dravist could heal whichever one of us was unfortunate enough to receive the first attack. Bear were not known to hunt humans. They were mostly herbivores. We must have something they want. And then I understood.
“Steady fellows.” I said. “Just keep them still. I know what we need to do. Just give me a moment.” I walked over to the cart and retrieved one of my honey pots. I eased forward knowing that I was probably holding the thing they wanted. I grabbed two fairly large sticks from my reserves for the fire. I opened the honey pot and I stuck one stick in and produced a thick dollop. I held the stick out in front of myself and they sniffed. I raised the stick and gave it a heavy heave to throw it as far as I could behind them into the meadow. And they both broke to chase the stick. I scooped up more on the second stick and I threw it just a little further. The bear without the stick leapt onto the second stick and they were both gnawing on the sticks and making a bunch of grunting sounds. I took the whole honey pot and threw it in their direction and it broke open. I hoped that would give them something to do for quite a while. I relaxed a little and turned around to look at the others.
Gillfort said, “Good thinking Bene. That is probably going to keep them busy for a while but they may be back for more. The druids won’t mind your manner for handling that. But we may need to deal with them again in a while. Now they think you got plenty of honey. If we’re lucky by the time they stop we’ll be far enough that they just give up.” Vallen said, “My Lord, what shall we do now?” Jackwon said, “If they come back we may have to kill them since we’ll run out of honey eventually. We should have killed them anyway.” Gillfort took offense to this and replied, “They’re just bear. They want to eat the same as you and I. What’s your problem? Or do you just need some more tusks for your teepee?” Jackwon turned to Gillfort and raised his weapons and Vallen stepped up to stop him. Vallen said, “Now hold on there. We’re in this together. I’m sure he was speaking in the passion of the moment. Right Gillfort?” Gillfort responded, “What? What are you talking about?” Vallen replied, “The remark about a teepee. You were just running your mouth without thinking, right?” Gillfort paused to process what Vallen said and then responded, “Yea, right. I’m, uh, sorry for that, Jackwon.” There was a pause and Jackwon lowered his arms. Gillfort added, “I’m just saying that we need to be mindful of how we treat any animal or plant once we enter this forest. It could well decide whether we leave the forest or not. I don’t have any idea how strong these druids may be. They might be strong enough to take us all out, so watch your step.”
I looked over to the bears and then over to Gough. It was too early to leave and we hadn’t had our breakfast. I hoped the bears would be satisfied with the honey and leave us alone. I said, “Well, we’re not going to get any sleep now. We may as well have our breakfast and pack up. I’ll cook breakfast if you fellows could pack up your things. Dravist, you go ahead and keep an eye on Gough.” And with that I went to the wagon and retrieved the things I needed for breakfast. I cooked breakfast, enjoyed the rest of my pipe and shared some coffee with everyone, even Gough. Even under the circumstances I felt a need to give the condemned man some dignity. He was in a dark mood but the good breakfast helped. Jackwon, Gillfort and Vallen got everything packed up except for my lot. After I ate, I had them wash things while I packed up my things. We loaded up the cart and got ready to leave. Gough asked to be allowed to walk so we allowed him to walk. Meanwhile the bears did have enough honey to be satisfied and wandered off somewhere else.
Just after the sun rose we set off. We immediately plunged into the darkness of the woods since the trees blocked the sunlight so well. Once inside the woods the undergrowth was not a hinderance to my dark vision, but the party needed torches. I took the lead, leading my horse as I walked, because my dark vision was best at the front and my woodsman’s skills were best put to use as the party scout. It wasn’t easy going in the wood with our cart but we made progress. The thick leaves on the forest floor made pulling the cart a little more difficult.
I would walk ahead and stop, take a careful look, smell the air and listen as best I could with the commotion going on behind me. Then I would walk ahead again and repeat the process. Keeping my bearings was not easy in the forest as it was in the meadow, but I had a good sense we were traveling north. The old tale about moss on trees is not so helpful as city folk think. In the dingy light of the forest, moss grows on any side of a tree it can.
We were well into the forest and had taken two rests already when I began to get a sense we were being watched. We had stopped using torches a long time ago so it wasn’t by the fire that we could be tracked. I couldn’t tell if we were being hunted, stalked or just trailed. I believed it was more than an animal being curious of our party, but except for trained woodsmen, humans couldn’t conceal themselves from me so easily. This caused me to believe it may be the druids themselves. They would certainly have learned woodsman’s skills even though they may not be disposed to cutting trees and branches. Living in the woods included all manner of skills such as foraging for greens, roots, berries and mushrooms, making a campfire even in difficult circumstances, navigation, selecting sleeping cover, finding water, trapping and hunting game, wilderness first aid and medicines and things of that sort too. I decided to ask Gillfort if he felt it too.
“I’ve had a feeling.” I said to him. He just looked into my face and nodded his head very slightly. “Not a dumb animal, but something intelligent.” I continued. “Something trying to keep itself hidden and knows well how that is done.” Again, Gillfort nodded. “Druids?” I asked. He tilted his head to one side indicating he wasn’t sure. “Animal servants?” Again he tilted his head a tiny bit. I asked him, “Are you OK?” He pulled his hood out from his head further causing his head to shrink back inside. Then he put his fingers to his face cloaked by the hood and signed to me. He touched his ear and put his finger to his lips. He touched his eyebrow and pointed outwards in a sweeping motion. He put his finger back to his lips and then cupped his ear. Then he pointed his thumb at himself and brought his hand before his face with his fingers all touching and pointing outward before he opened them up, and then pointed at me. Then he bent down and picked up a stick and held it in front of him so I would watch the stick. Then he broke the stick and broke it again in two crisp “Snap – snap” sounds.
From all this I believed he was very concerned we should avoid talking about anything we didn’t want others to hear. And he further wanted me to know he was alert to our surroundings and agreed we were being watched. And finally it appeared he would signal me with two crisp snaps of a stick if he wanted to signal me again if he believed he needed to communicate with me without talking. I nodded to indicate I thought I understood him.
I looked at the rest of our crew. I held my finger to my lips. Then I turned and led my horse forward again. They began to follow and I immediately had the feeling again. I swept my eyes left and right without turning my head. I also looked into the lower branches wondering if it were the birds or squirrels that were enchanted by the druids. Then I noticed that I hadn’t seen playful squirrels in some time. They were probably frightened by whatever was watching us and their alertness to certain threats made them hunker down until we were passed.
I walked and thought about the threats to the squirrels. In the forest they wouldn’t be concerned about hawks that hunted by flying high overhead and looking for rodents scurrying in the meadow. Badgers, wolves and other predators would get them scared. Larger animals like bear wouldn’t typically hunt squirrels but they may still scare them because of their size. Foxes and felines might scare them as well. I continued to scan ahead, up, left and right and to listen carefully.
Suddenly I found that we were crossing a pathway in the wood. It lead ahead and to my left and disappeared behind and to my right. I turned to follow the path that lead ahead. The path was wide. I could have mounted my horse but I continued to lead him. The others followed and I’m sure they were relieved the handling of the cart became easier. We were on the path a short time when I looked ahead and saw a figure standing on a branch over the path steadying himself on the tree trunk with his left hand.
He was dressed in a hooded cloak of rough brown fabric. When we were not so far away he held up his right hand signaling for us to wait. I stopped and turned to look behind me to verify the others stopped and saw the man on the branch too. He spoke first.
“Good day travelers.” He began, “Why do you come this way?” I brushed back my hood so he could see my head and face. I replied, “Good day. I am Bene Timber, a minstrel and messenger from the east. I have been asked to seek out the druids of the deep wood and ask for their counsel.” The hooded figure replied, “Why does a minstrel, two fighters, a cleric and”, he paused, “a druid seek the counsel of the druid of the deep wood?” I replied, “I have been asked by the governor of the province to see if the druid can help us understand a sign. We want to know if there is evil or good in this sign. We know the druid recognize our fight for the good and hope our faith in the druid is well placed that they would be our allies in this struggle.”
“But you bring men for war with you to visit the good druids?” I bowed and replied, “Yes, my friends Vallen and Jackwon have been trained to fight. Even I”, and I bowed again, “have some training in the martial arts. But they came at my invitation as my escort for I knew not what else might lie between the town and the druid’s home. We have even found a deserter from the army I believe, and he was not kindly disposed to our intrusion. I wanted to leave him be but he behaved badly so I couldn’t leave him behind. I couldn’t trust him not to leave us be as well.” I went on. “Even this morning, we were visited by two bear. I may not have been able to handle them myself, but with their help, the bear were cautious enough to allow me to share my honey with them to their delight. My other friends, Dravist and Gillfort, are part of their company. They are also good travelling companions. I hope you will come to know them all better.”
The figure in the tree looked down to my left and another druid stepped from behind the tree on the opposite side of the path. He was similarly dressed and was holding a quarter staff. He just stood silently in the path ahead. I heard a sound to my right and I turned my head to see two bear, possibly the same two bear we met that morning. I heard a sound to my left and turned my head again. There was another bear, much closer, and all of a sudden he transformed into a cloaked man. The man pulled his hood from his head back so that I could see his face. He had dark skin and thick wild hair and a full beard. His eyes were fixed on me and he reached out with his arms. He pulled back his sleeves to the elbow exposing his dark skin and showing he held no weapons. I bowed to him.
He spoke to me. “We have not talked with an official from the Province in some time. Who are you?” I replied, “I am Bene Timber, Emissary from Magistrate Ballinor. I am friends with Andante and with Flint, both men that guard the frontier from the evil that lay beyond. I would expect you’re acquainted with both of them. I have their signs in my pouch.” He nodded and said, “I am Alnifolia, the druid master of this herd. I would see the signs from you, Bene Timber.” And he slowly stepped toward me. With my left hand still holding the reigns of my horse, I fumbled with my belt pouch and retrieved the two stones. I held them in my extended right hand for Alnifolia to see. He stepped close enough to touch my hand looked at the stones in my hand and then nodded. He said, “These stones carry the signs. Thank you, Bene Timber. Come, walk with me. We are a short way from our home.” And he stepped across the path to my side of my horse and we walked forward. The others followed along.
I began with “I am newly come to this province. I have known Lord Ballinor less than a week. How long have you been here?” Alnifolia replied, “We have lived here for over four years. You are older than the emissaries I’ve dealt with in the past. You know the wood. You have experience.” I smiled and nodded my head and replied, “Yes, because I am a half-elf we live at home longer than humans before we begin careers as adventurers or government officials. I grew up in a town near an elven wood and learned about woodsmanship as a youth. I practiced that trade for years before attending the bardic college.” He nodded and replied, “I see, then you are not a minstrel but a trained bard? Good. I don’t like minstrels. They are ill mannered. Bards are different and I can see you have good manners.”
As we passed by his two friends, he motioned with his hand to them. The one in the tree jumped down with such a fluid motion it seemed he floated down to the leaves landing with a soft sound. I asked, “Pardon, but I have shared the names of all my company, except for the deserter. His name is Gough, or so he has said. What are the names of the druids in your company?” Alnifolia replied while looking ahead, “Palustris, Laevis and Marogred.” I recognized the last name from the note. Something about that seemed out of sorts. I replied, “Unusual names. Where are they from?” Alnifolia replied, “Marogred is a dwarf from the sword mountains. Laevis is from the capitol. Palustris is from the south from a farm beyond Eros. I grew up in a farm from this province to the extreme south of its borders. I developed a love for nature and left my home to become a druid. Now I am the master of this wood. I care for all the beings that make their home here. We will make this a paradise if men leave us alone to do it.” There was no edge in his voice with this comment. He didn’t sound bothered that we journeyed to speak to him, and it seemed there was no way we could get him to leave the wood to come talk with us.
I wanted to see if I could learn more. I asked, “A company of four druids. This seems a small number for so great a project as to make this a paradise. There are surely hundreds of acres of trees, countless beasts. I had heard of druid’s gatherings and never heard of such a small number.” Alnifolia replied, “We are not so many today but we are growing. Marogred joined us only a few weeks ago. As our work here gains notoriety, more will come. That is my calling as Master. I must see to it we succeed and more will come from that.” He paused and continued, “It is not for you to understand all my duties, methods and such. But I have to do my duty as a leader to draw others to this task. When they come, I see to their training and in exchange they work in these woods, not for me, but for the woods and the animals. I don’t expect you to understand it all. But if you spend time with druids you will see this is how most of us handle our community arrangements. All the members are free to go provided they make a public declaration in one of our ceremonies and we divide the property involved. But they are here because they also have a calling to tend to nature.”
I wanted to plant a seed in his mind for later, because this Marogred fellow could be of some importance and I wanted to see if Alnifolia could help me understand why the fellow mentioned in my found letter describing a treasure hunt ended up here with these druids. I said, “Alnifolia, Palustris, Laevis and Marogred? Do I have all them right and in the right order?” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, that is all of us, at present. Actually, I am wondering what your friend Gillfort is thinking. If he is ready we could take him in if it is his desire.” I thought about that and said, “You know, I’m beginning to wonder that myself. He is quite amused with my lack of knowledge of your business and manner. This trip may produce all sorts of surprises.”
Alnifolia was looking ahead and said, “Well, we’re just about there. See those two great oaks ahead on either side of the trail? Just beyond there is a clearing and the ruins of another cult’s settlement. We have decided to take that over and clean it up as our central meeting area for now. They had several great buildings but only two remain. One is their temple. That is why I figure they were some sort of cult. The second building is a sort of barracks or army administration center. It was also mostly constructed of stone so it had survived whatever calamity resulted in this being a deserted area. Next to the barracks building there is the foundation of a large warehouse. The only other remaining feature is the courtyard linking the barracks to the temple. It was finished with good flagstones and there is a great amphitheater with a well. Other than that, there are a few obelisks, one of these a sundial.”
Just a few more steps and we passed between the trees and I paused to take it all in. Before me there were a few small trees and the ground sloped down away from there. The whole area was a cleared meadow in the forest. The contrast of the sun was almost blinding from what I was accustomed to all day. Even my horse was unsettled at the brightness of the sun appearing suddenly. As I stepped forward, now a little behind Alnifolia I looked about to identify the features he mentioned. As we passed through the small isolated trees I was standing at the top of the amphitheater which led down to a stone stage that was quite small. For the number of seats available in this outdoor venue the stage should have been many times larger. It appeared to be made for only a single performer to recite epic poems or ballads.
Beyond the stage there was a large flat space paved with flagstones as Alnifolia described. Ahead to the left there was a single obelisk that could be the needle of a sundial. There was adequate room in the courtyard for this. But directly ahead where the courtyard ended there was a great stone structure with columns and stairs leading to a great porch before the doorway to the building’s interior. The columns were impressively made almost the diameter of a man’s height. They rose about four stories into the air before touching the extended roof of the temple. All the stone of the temple was a bright white, highly polished, so that it was obvious a great many stone masons and architects were employed in this great work long ago.
To my right at the edge of the courtyard stood the only other remaining structure, which must have been the barracks he spoke about. It was also made of stone, and made with care so that stone masons were again involved, but the workmanship didn’t include the fine polish of the temple stones, and these stones were quarried somewhere else for they had a yellow heugh to them. The stones were cut down smaller and built together as bricks with the mortar. And the building was much more utilitarian than the temple.
Our cart was not going to fare well descending the steps of the amphitheater so I turned back and motioned for my group to lead the cart along the right hand edge winding down the slope to the barracks. I turned and began to lead my horse that way too. As I did I noticed the trees, the smaller ones in this clearing were actually planted at careful intervals and delineated the upper edge of the seating in this amphitheater. They were each fine specimens of their kind and I guessed they were one of the earliest projects Alnifolia established in making this ruined village into a natural area again. I listened to the sounds of the animals and decided the birds were happy and prosperous for there were many calls of the birds declaring territory, courtship and mating and even others just singing to enjoy themselves. I recognized many varieties but there were others I did not recognize. I thought I might ask later.
At the bottom of the slope we were near the barracks. I could see it needed repairs but was largely intact. I tied my horse to an old fence post and followed Alnifolia. He went inside the building and I followed him into a room like an office. He had cleaned up the room and apparently used it often. There was a rough hewn table, some crude chairs and a few small shelves on one wall holding small trinkets and a few candle stands. I asked him if we could speak in private? He said sure. Then I asked if I might talk to my crew so they could settle in for the night first, and he agreed to that also.
Outside again, I spoke to Vallen and asked him to help Jackwon set up camp with Dravist. I told him I was going to have Gillfort talk with the other druids while I talked in private with Alnifolia about my mission. I wanted Gillfort to learn what he could about their experience here and I wanted Vallen and Dravist to have a good look at the temple to see what they might learn about it. I emphasized one point before I went to speak to Gillfort, “Do not trust or confide in Marogred. I have reason to think he isn’t a druid. I’m not sure if the druids know it, so just avoid the subject.” At this I went to speak to Gillfort.
“Gillfort, I need you to have a look around and talk to the druids. They may know something about this area that would help me find what I am looking for. I must ask you to mind one thing though. I have reason to think that Marogred is not a druid, but an imposter. I’m not sure that the druids know it. I’m not saying they are stupid not to recognize a druid themselves. I do not know what skills he possesses. But do not trust him, do not confide in him and do not speak of the matter with the druids. I will handle it in private with Alnifolia if I can.” Gillfort looked me in the eye, thought for a moment and replied, “OK. But I hope you will tell me about this later. I don’t like being kept in the dark.” I replied, “Thank you. I will tell you what I can when I can. But this may be a delicate matter.”
Then I went to see Jackwon. “Hey, I need to attend to my mission and talk with Alnifolia. I need you to set up camp with Vallen and Dravist. Then I need you to keep an eye on Gough while the others have a look around for anything that might tell me about this symbol I’m seeking. Don’t lose track of Gough. He surely knows he faces severe punishment when we get back. OK?” Jackwon replied simply, “You bet. No problem.” With that I reached in my saddle bag and retrieved my flute, my pipe, my tocco bag and a jar of honey from the cart. Then I went inside to speak to Alnifolia.
Alnifolia was reading something when I came back. I asked if I might light a candle and have a seat. He said, “Sure. I didn’t know you elves needed much light. I’ve grown quite sensitive to bright light from living under the canopy of trees so long.” I replied, “No, I’m not in need of light, but I have something I want you to see. May I enjoy some of my tocco while we talk?” He replied, “Please, go right ahead.” I asked, “Do you have a pipe?” He replied, “Yes, but it is in the other room.” I asked, “Would you care to get it?” And he said, “No, not just yet. Maybe later.” I placed my things on the table and sat down. Then I motioned to feel for my pouch and said, “I forgot to grab my drinking cup and water skin. Would you have one you might share?” He replied, “Certainly. Allow me.” And with that he stood up and walked out the room. He returned presently with a pair of cups and a pail of water. He set it down on the floor and dipped in both cups holding one out for me.
I took the cup and had a drink. The water was very cool and even had a slight sweet taste to it. I had tasted bad water before, but I had never tasted water I would have described as good, until now. I finished my cup and dipped another from the pail. I fiddled with my tocco bag and pipe, stood up and closed the door. I lit my pipe and had another sip of my water. I began by saying, “I have some things to say that may shock you, but I did not come here to shock you. But I must ask you to keep this in strict confidence until I determine that the source of this matter is not an evil influence.” I paused and puffed on my pipe and Alnifolia nodded his head.
I retrieved my sketch of the pendent from my pouch. I unfolded it carefully and spread it on the table for him to see. He immediately got a big grin on his face and looked up at me. I said, “You know something about this, then? Please tell me.” He said, “We know something about it but we also seek to know more about it. Why do you come seeking this sign?” I puffed again on my pipe and said, “A man wearing this sign as a pendent has taken up residence in Stonebridge and the Governor wants to know what it means. Since I brought it to the Governor’s attention we have heard a story of a traveler through Stonebridge also wearing this symbol as a pendent.” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, and I also have seen the pendent. And I have seen the sign, although I was not meant to see either. The sign and the pendent mean this very place.” I puffed and replied, “How do you know that?” He said, “It is the great symbol on the wall inside that temple. It has something to do with the cult that built this village. This village was a stopping place for travelers that were going to another important shrine. We’re not sure where the shrine is; whether it is near or far away, nothing. I was told before I came here that I was to restore the spirit of these woods to combat the power of the temple. I was not told what the temple was for or anything, but I was told that I would know the spot when I found the temple. So I journeyed here and with the help of the animals I found the temple. Now I labor to restore the spirit of the wood, and my friends labor with me.”
I thought about what he said. “Who was the man that sent you here?” Alnifolia replied, “He was the master druid of Hollybliss, Opaca. He is the master druid of Confernos.” I asked, “And he knew of the temple? How did he come to know of it?” Alnifolia replied, “I don’t know how, but he is old and knows things that happened long ago in this region. I believe his knowledge extends beyond the empire and goes way back.” I puffed, and then said, “I must be right on top of the answer to the riddle of the pendent. First there is a wizard with the pendent, then a traveler, and then I happen on the temple.” Then I said mostly to just myself, “What is this temple about, I wonder?”
Alnifolia replied, “A wizard, did you say?” Absent mindedly I replied, “A wizard? Um, did I say a wizard? Is that what you said?” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, you did say you first saw the pendent on a wizard? Is this the man in Stonebridge, or the traveler?” I paused and realized I better not try to hold this information back. “Yes, the man that I first noticed wearing this pendent is the current Provincial Wizard in Stonebridge. His name is Finlock. Does that mean anything to you?” He replied, “No, not the name, just that he is a wizard. Wizards had something to do with the cult that came here, although they must have also had among them clerics too. That would explain the temple.”
Alnifolia continued, “And then there is the other mystery. We found a pendent like this among Marogred’s personal things after he came here. Palustris noticed it first and immediately understood it matched the symbol on the wall of the temple. He asked Marogred about it in front of all of us at dinner when he saw it. Marogred told us a story of a dwarf friend that gave him the pendent and said he’d find us by showing the pendent to people and asking where he could find the temple. The problem is I saw right through that story. While I was given a description of the temple symbol, I found it without asking others. But when we found Marogred, he didn’t show us the pendent to ask for directions, so I realized he wasn’t so keen to let folks know he had the pendent in the first place. So he was lying about the pendent, what else was he lying about.”
Alnifolia continued, “And he isn’t a druid either.” With that, I stopped and looked right at him. “If he isn’t a druid what do you think he is doing here?” I asked. Alnifolia replied, “The temple. He is here because of the temple. But I don’t know what specifically he is looking for. I’m pretty sure he thinks he’ll find what he is seeking it in the temple.” I smiled and shook my head a little. I said, “I can see that you have placed some trust in me. Let me show you I deserve your trust. From this day forward we shall always be friends, even though I don’t know a thing about druids.” I reached in my pouch and retrieved the map with the letter. I held up the map so Alnifolia could see it, and then I turned it over so he would see the letter and set it on the table for him to read. While he read the letter I said slowly, “He’s after the treasure he thinks is in there.” I paused, puffed on my pipe and had another drink. Alnifolia said, “Of course. Why he may not even be a cultist. He may just be a grave robber.”
I said, “I’m not sure about these riddles. Does any of it make any sense to you?” He replied, “Well, the temple seems to have something to do with water. Water was part of their rituals. When it rains a puddle two inches deep collects in the temple on purpose. It is designed to have a puddle two inches deep, no more. It is a very curious thing. I believe they stood in the puddle as part of the worship practice. When you go in there, the first thing you will notice is the smell of mold and mildew. You won’t notice anything else for a while. We can hardly spend a moment in there the smell is so awful. I guess the bit about the ink never getting wet might have something to do with the temple.”
I decided to back up a little. “You said he was no druid. But you let him stay with you? I don’t doubt that you are sure he is no druid, but could you explain that to me, how you know?” He got a smile on his face and said, “Oh come Bene Timber; if a child blew into your flute there, you would know they didn’t have any musical training. If I blew into it and even used the finger holes as they should, you would know I wasn’t trained as a bard. We know he isn’t a druid. But he has made an interesting effort to convince us he wants to be a druid.”
Marogred has made up this story of always being an outcast among the dwarves because he doesn’t care for the things dwarves are known for. He has told us he has always had a calling to become acquainted with nature and came to realize it was a calling to be a druid. He said he tried to learn how to be a druid by reading books but there were no books among the dwarves so he had to run away and seek out his life as a loner. He said in the cities he found sparing few books but tried to read and learn from them. Now, among us, he fumbles with even the most basic chores and rituals. And when he does his chores he seems so disgusted with the dirt that gets on him. No. He has not the least speck of a calling to be a druid. A greedy dwarf, looking for treasure, sure; but no druid. This letter is the answer to many of my questions for the past few weeks. I am convinced this is what he is about. Now how am I going to catch him?
I replied, “That is a good question. I would like to get some more information from him, about the treasure and about the pendent. But it is getting late. What do you do for dinner?” He looked at me from his absent thoughts and said, “Dinner, oh yes, that. Let’s go and talk to Laevis and Marogred. They are good cooks.” And he stood up and I stood up too. We opened the office door and stepped out into the open. He looked about and saw our campsite. He found Laevis and called to him. “Laevis, what did you want to do about dinner tonight? We have guests.” Laevis began to walk over to us. When he was close he said, “I was going to cook a stew tonight, master.” Alnifolia responded, “No, let’s have some good meat tonight, for our guests.” Laevis was a little surprised by this but said, “Very well, master. I shall see to it.” And he turned and walked away to my right. “Wait a moment.” I said, and he stopped and turned to face me. I continued, “I have some spices. What would help your cooking along tonight?” Laevis got a smile and said, “Let me find Marogred, and we’ll come and find you to discuss it.” And he walked away with a little bounce in his step.
While that was going on, I decided to check on Jackwon and Gough. I walked over that way and Gough was seated in the shade. I stepped up to Jackwon and said, “How’s he doing?” Jackwon was serious, “Well he has learned quite a lot in the last hour or so. For example, he learned to keep his mouth shut because when his hands are tied it can be difficult to avoid this.” And with that he raised his axe and made a thrust into the air with the butt of the handle. I let a thin smile creep across my lips and said, “You didn’t?” He put the axe handle down on the ground and nodded his head just a touch signaling, “Oh yes I did.” I asked him, “Do you need to stretch your legs? I could watch him.” He replied, “Naw, I’m fine. Vallen wants to see you about something anyway. He’s poking around in the chapel, uh, temple.” I nodded my head a thanks and looked at Gough again as I turned to leave.
I walked straight over to the front of the temple. I was again struck by the fine workmanship of the stone columns. They looked just as smooth and straight as the day they were laid. In the shadow of the porch I peered into the temple. It took my eyes a moment to adjust with some concentration. I could only see some movement inside, but the light-dark contrast was too much for me to see more than that. I called for Vallen and stepped inside the doorway.
Just as I was warned, there was such a thick smell of mildew that I almost had to step back outside. I grabbed a cloth and held it over my nose and mouth. I looked about and tried to see what the major features were. I was just inside a waiting area, a narthex, and before me was a doorway that led into the main chamber.
I was struck by the unusual nature of the narthex. I stepped inside and within a stride the floor dropped about two inches. I almost tripped over my own feet stepping down suddenly like that. I turned and looked down at the floor. With the fine craftsmanship of the rest of the building I wasn’t ready for the floor inside to be uneven. But the floor wasn’t uneven because this was a deliberate step down of two inches. For a space of about three feet wide, the floor at the rear wall was two inches higher than the rest of the floor in the narthex. The coloring was all the same, but the floor level was just lower. I turned to face into the main room again.
There was another doorway, but no door. The wall separated this area from the large open space such as a nave. Beyond the doorway there were no chairs or other features, just a large flat open space. I stepped through the doorway and my eyes were now beginning to adjust to the light. I could see Vallen over near the wall at my left, and he was staring at a relief carving in the wall and talking softly with Dravist. The sound of my steps was quite loud in the cavernous room of stone. I walked their way and noticed the same smooth stonework that matched the work outside.
Vallen turned to me as I approached and was wearing a cloth tied behind his head and covering his nose and mouth. He said, “What do you think?” I replied, “The stonework is amazing.” Vallen said, “No, about this relief? It reminds me of a legend I heard in my childhood, but I can’t remember what it was about. I was hoping you or one of these druids would recall what this is about. But never mind that right now. It is clear we have found the answer to your quest.” And with that, he indicated the front wall at the opposite end of the room from the doorway. Now that my eyes had adjusted to the light I could see I huge version in colored mosaic tile of my sketch of the pendent. It had the circle of blue at the top and the fan spread out beneath except the fan had ribs and not smooth as my sketch seemed to show. I was almost struck dumb. I stepped over closer and to the center of the room to investigate the detail.
There was no doubt about it. The pendent belonged to the same group of people that built this temple. And the druids called them a cult and said there were powerful wizards and clerics involved. Well there was no doubt this cult had some resources to hire stone masons to do this fine work, and other men to quarry the fine stone and transport it here. These folks had some degree of power in the region. Anyone with an understanding of power would see that. So that left me to wonder to what end were they exercising their power to build such a structure?
There were stairs leading up to a raised area at the front wall and I went over to climb these stairs. I stepped on the first stair and felt a rough texture. These stairs were deliberately finished rough but still level. This was yet another riddle of the temple. I climbed the remaining stairs, all rough surfaced, and reached the raised level about three or four feet above the rest of the room. I walked steadily to the front wall to look at the mosaic.
The tile was brightly colored and fired pottery pieces with a glaze. The mortar was very even so that the tiles were made specifically for this display. There were torch sconces along the wall at this part of the temple. I wondered how the wall would appear if we lit the torches and stepped back to see it in the manner in which it was made to be viewed. I dared not light the torches without Alnifolia’s permission because that act along could unleash evil forces. I looked about and noted there were special places set lower to gather water. Water was clearly central to their worship, and probably the focus of all their power.
I turned around and walked back down the stairs carefully. My eyes were much better attuned to the light and I looked at the walls to either side of the main area. They each depicted a scene sculpted in the stone in low relief. The scene on my left showed a festive scene of dryads, imps, faeries, and other woodland spirits of legend playing in the woods near a scenic pool. The opposite wall depicted a scene of a conflict in story book fashion. It was symbolic of a fight and not an attempt to reflect an actual battle. There were rows of men with pole arms preparing to receive a charge from knights. There were archers shooting over the heads of the infantry at some far away threat. There were even wizards, clerics and possibly druids preparing to throw their magic at one another. And in the middle there was an armored cleric with an aura of magic about his as if he were either controlling his forces or calling upon even more powerful magic from his deity.
I also saw the wall with the doorway now from inside. It also had a low relief carving of scenes of water in its many forms. There were ocean waves, a great lake fed by a waterfall and a stream. A river ran from the lake to the sea shore. There were clouds, some think rain clouds discharging their load over the land, and there were hints of water elementals in the waves and churning waters. On this wall there were stone tablets with the runes of the elements engraved on them. The tablets stood in stark contrast to the beauty of the relief carving itself.
There were also more torch sconces on the back wall. I thought to myself how odd it would be to come into the temple room with these sconces burning because it would only cause deep shadows to be cast to the far wall. This was in contrast to how most temples were made where the main light was placed in the front so it seemed the light, and the power, came from the front of the room. This was a peculiar cult in so many ways.
I motioned for Vallen and Dravist to come outside with me. Outside we untied our masks and stepped off the porch and into the paved courtyard. I asked them if they learned anything else while I was talking to Alnifolia. They told me they had talked to the druids only a moment before going into the temple to look around. Vallen immediately recognized the mosaic on the wall as the symbol of the pendent so he wanted to have a good look around inside, but with the poor light and the smell it wasn’t easy. He thought we should go back in the following day since we were losing the light, and possibly the druids would agree to allow us to take torches in even if they didn’t want us to light the sconces inside. I told them we were going to have dinner together with the druids but they should stay on alert because things might begin to happen. I then excused myself to find Gillfort.
Gillfort was returning from his own tour of the area with Palustris. I approached the both of them wearing a broad smile. I started by saying, “Well there you are. What do you think?” Gillfort responded, “It is quite a place. The temple is still in very good condition and ingeniously made. Palustris has shown me their manner of making the temple roof catch the rainwater and channel it inside. It causes a large puddle to collect inside and they stand in the water it seems to celebrate their god or whatever it is they did. See here”, and he pointed to the edge of the roof, “the water doesn’t fall from the roof. It collects in channels at the top of the wall. Those channels lead to the front of the temple where the water collects into a pool. The pool is designed to let the water spill out and make a great noise of falling into the pool where the priest stands. I bet it is quite a racket inside that stone cave with the water falling in there.” Palustris continued, “After the water falls into a pool in the upper level it cascades down to the lower level into a pool two inches deep again. From there it flows to the back of the room and into the narthex. In the narthex there are two drain pipes that carry the water away. We believe the water flows through the drains into the well so the well holds a great deal of water from its underground sorce and from as much rainwater as they can collect. See how the whole area descends to the well. All the rainwater of the courtyard flows there also.”
I gazed around and saw what they were helping me to see. They were right. These fellows had taken great steps to collect all the water they could. Was this necessary for their rituals or to support the pilgrims that were travelling to the other great shrine? Palustris asked me to follow him and he walked to the well at the center of the amphitheater. I had mistaken the well for a tiny stage when I first looked down upon it. As we approached, I could see it was also finished in the pure white stone of the temple and not the yellowish stone of the barracks.
The rim was made with a few sector stones, polished and fit in a perfect circle. The bottom edge of the stones were set into a depression and cut with a serrated bottom, which set the stones up just a touch and allowed water to flow under the rim and into the well. There was no doubt the builders intended for the well to serve as a cistern. The top of the well was finished in eight sector stones in each of three layers. Without mortar they were set but still very stable. I estimated that the stones were aligned with north, south, east and west, but I would need to confirm how precise the alignment fit the earth.
I stepped back, and using the well rim as a gage, I noticed the major axis of the courtyard flagstones aligned with an east-west line too. It was not uncommon for stones to be set in an alignment like this because it helped as a guide to travelers that needed to navigate from place to place. But it did add to the notion that the entire plaza was built to a specification and not just randomly laid. It also showed it was built by a group with substantial funds.
I asked Palustris to tell me about the well. He said they had a good look at the well one day and found the end of two pipes set below the ground that emptied into the well. They concluded it was the drain of the pipes coming from the temple. Then he told me something that I didn’t know and wasn’t expecting. He said they drew their water from the well, naturally, and this is the special good tasting water I enjoyed while talking with Alnifolia. He said they hadn’t determined why the water tasted this way because so much of the water was simply run-off that shouldn’t have any special taste to it. And they had studied it enough to figure the aquifer that fed the well wouldn’t explain it either. They had taken samples of the water and filled clear glass containers. It was immediately clear and never showed any sign of change. There was no sediment in their samples.
It was good for the plants too. They had watered a bunch of plants from the well just to see if anything could be observed from that, and the group of plants grew higher and stronger than others of the same species that only received rain water. It was clearly due to something special about the well and it appeared it was a deliberate action that caused it to be that way, although they didn’t disregard the possibility that the character of the water caused them to build on this spot.
I was thinking about all these things and looking around at the layout of the plaza and the temple. The temple was due north of the well. The door was perfectly aligned with the well on a north-south line. The flagstones were aligned with an east-west axis. The amphitheater benches were perfect concentric circles arrayed in a fan about the well. Apparently they held large group meetings out here. I looked up and saw the trees planted by the druids at the edge of the amphitheater and admired how they added to the visual appeal of the area.
Then I had a moment of inspiration. I retrieved my drawing and held it open to see, and I imagined a blue gem at the top of the design with the fan radiating beneath from the gem and I realized the symbol was a reflection of the amphitheater with the well at the center, and not an arbitrary design. The well and the amphitheater were the central focus of the cult, not the temple. The temple was secondary and the well was primary. They both were built around the concept of the water, but the well was the focus. I asked, “Where is Alnfolia?” Palustris replied, “I’m sure he is preparing for dinner. It should be only a short time before it is ready.”
Just then Alnifolia emerged from the barracks doorway and said, “We’ll be eating soon. Please come inside. We have a good table for eating. Bring everyone.” And he indicated over to where Jackwon was standing and added, “Bring him too.” Jackwon got a sour look on his face and raised his axe in hand. I held up my hand and called over to Jackwon, “Easy, Jackwon, I’m sure he means your charge, Gough. Bring him inside with you.” And Jackwon turned and stepped that way.
Inside I walked further down the main corridor and found the room at the rear was a large meeting room with a large table and chairs. It appeared to double as a dining area because it had shelves along two walls that appeared to be typical shelves for holding dishes and mugs. There were four windows to the room and they were open for the light and the breeze, but candles were lit and standing in holders on the table for more light. The table was set and Alnifolia was standing at the head of the table. He indicated I should sit at his right hand and Palustris sat at his left side. Gillfort sat next to him and Vallen next to Gillfort. Marogred sat on that side next to Vallen. Beside me was Dravist, and then Jackwon, and then Gough, and then Laevis sat at the end of the table opposite Alnifolia.
Marogred and Laevis brought in the food and set it on the table. They assumed their places and there was a moment of quiet. Both Jackwon and Gough reached out a hand to pick up the bowls in front of them to begin serving, and Vallen, sitting across from them, cleared his throat and shook his head very slightly indicating it was not proper to assume it was time to serve.
Alnifolia lifted up his arms and held them out palms up. The druids, including Gillfort, did the same, although Marogred was a little slower in picking up on the signal. I also reached out my arms and held up my hands following Gillfort’s lead, but the others did not copy our actions. Alnifolia said something in a language I was unfamiliar with and the druids responded with a word. Then Alnifolia said something else and the druids responded with a word, before Alnifolia said a third phrase and the druids responded with a word. They lowered their hands and I also lowered mine. The druids other than Alnifolia took their seats and our party followed their example. Everyone else seated, Alnifolia took his seat.
The druids indicated it was OK to serve so the bowls were raised and passed around the table. It was a fine meal of woodsmen’s fare. We had venison and gravy, small potatoes, green leaves and berries and a tea made from boiled roots. We all had plenty to eat although Gough was hungrier than the rest of us. He ate like this was the finest meal he had enjoyed in a year, and I believed it was just that. While we ate, we talked about the day.
Alnifolia asked about our journey from the town and I described how we left with our cart of provisions and made our way along the road until we broke off to turn northeast. I described my meeting with Gough and Alnifolia asked Gough for his view of it. Gough’s account of the details was not different from mine except he told the story of a man having his home invaded rather than a man receiving a visitor. Alnifolia asked Gough about his service in the army, and Gough provided little detail demonstrating that he would rather not discuss it at all. We understood that to confirm my suspicions that he was a deserter. Alnifolia asked Gough what he would do if he were to let him go. Gough said he would go back to his campsite to live but he’d want his chest of things back and a day’s rations to get there. Alnifolia only replied, “Oh, I see.”
I resumed talking about our campsite the previous night at the edge of the wood. I spoke about the cold night and waking early and wanting to make breakfast until the bear approached. At this point the druids were very interested in the story. I explained how we brought the animals over to the fire and then I gave the bear a pot of honey to lead them away. The druids were pleased to hear we didn’t have to fight the bear off. They also appeared to appreciate our attention to the safety and well-being of our animals first.
I then spoke about our uneventful although eerie and uneasy walk through the wood before finding Palustris. I asked, “Had you been trailing us?” Palustris just glanced over at Alnifolia. Alnifolia said, “I was watching you and made sure you found Palustris. If you had not noticed the path in the woods, I would have moved in front of your group and turned you in his direction. Many travelers, adventurers, are not at home in the woods and could have walked across that path and never noticed a thing. So it was not lost on me that you found the path even though it is such a clear path.” I nodded and smiled at him. Then I asked, “Did you send the bear to us?” And he replied, “No, they smelled your wagon, I’m sure, and the horse and mule and even your fire. The fire probably made them cautious about approaching the wagon, but their keen sense of smell alerted them you were carrying goodies. They may have smelled your honey but it is more likely they smelled your fine ground wheat.”
He continued, “Laevis, Marogred, you have done a fine job with the meat and Bene’s spices. This is a nice tasty meal. I only wish we had butter for the potatoes. I really do miss butter, but it is not seemly for druids to raise cows. There are groups that keep goats, and goat’s milk and cheese are tasty enough. I may send for a handful of goats yet. They are allowed to roam wild and there is the problem. They would enjoy a few mouthfuls of the new leaves on our trees. I wouldn’t want that to happen so I may wait a little longer before that happens.”
I said, “Speaking of the trees, I wanted to ask you about something I discovered. I think I understand the secret of the well; or part of the secret.” Alnifolia responded, “Well that would be good to know, but I want to discuss that later. First I want to ask Marogred about his pendent.” And Marogred tensed and the room became quiet except for Jackwon and Gough. Jackwon noticed first, and put down his fork. Gough didn’t until Jackwon raised his hand to his forearm. Gough, with a mouthful of food, looked at Jackwon, and then looked around the table, put down his fork and swallowed his food.
Alnifolia asked Marogred, “As I recall, you received the pendent from a dwarf who said you would find our site by finding the temple with this symbol.” Marogred said, “Yes, that is how I got the pendent.” “You must have had something more to go on other than wandering around with a pendent in your hand.” Alnifolia continued, “Did you find anyone who knew about the symbol of the pendent before we found you, or were you just that lucky?” Marogred, replied, “No, I never found anyone that knew about the pendent. I only heard rumors of the design before I found you. I was astonished when I saw the inside of the temple that day, because I had decided the rumors were all just false legends.” Alnifolia said, “Bene, where is your map? I’d like to see the one with the letter.” And at this I heard Marogred’s chair scoot. I replied, “I have it here in my pouch.” And I fished it out. Now everyone except for Gough was paying careful attention to the conversation, for none of the druids knew of my map and only Vallen in my party knew of it.
Alnifolia took his time unfolding the map and laying it on the table to see in the candle light. Alnifolia asked, “Dravist, could you shutter the windows. It is dark and it is getting chilly in here.” Dravist stood and closed the four windows securing the shutters, and then he returned to his seat. Alnifolia placed his finger on the map at Stonebridge and traced my path to the great wood and asked, “You stopped here last night?” I replied, “Yes, we did.” He asked, “And where did you find the map?” I reached over and pointed to the road saying, “We left the road about here, and I found this map on a dead bandit about here. We traveled on to here where I found Gough”, I paused, “Gough’s campsite in a stand of trees about here, and then we turned north.” Alnifolia nodded his head and then began to turn the map over. In an instant Marogred was up and ran out the door down the corridor. Alnifolia raised his left hand and pointed at the door looking at Palustris and said, “Get him!” And Palustris jumped to his feet and gave chase. Alnifonia then said, “Laevis, he’ll need some help. Gillfort, would you care to …” And Gillfort was standing and said, “Yes, master.” Gillfort left with Laevis right behind him.
Alnifolia said, “I’ll have some more tea, please.” And the rest of us speechless, handed the pitcher of hot water down to him with a bowl of roots. He placed a root in his mug and poured in the water. I decided to have another mug of tea too. And Vallen also decided to follow suit. Gillfort, Palustris and Laevis all returned carrying Marogred, who was bound hand and foot with vines. They brought him to the corner of the room nearest me and Alnifolia and set him down and helped him assume a sitting posture in the corner. They returned to their seats and I wondered at Gillfort already treating Alnifolia as the leader here. Alnifolia sipped his tea and then asked, “Marogred, are you comfortable?” Marogred just glared at him. Alnifolia answered him, “Good. Where were we? Oh, yes, I was going to read this letter to everyone.” He picked up the letter and turned to the table to read it to everyone else.
He began, “Marogred," he paused and added, "I fear the scribe’s hand is atrocious. But anyway, …”
“I know someday this map will make its way to you. I have hidden the key deep in the Dark Wood where only fools would look. Once you have it, take it to Malthinines' old stronghold. Remember the foot-eared dwellers. Next, remember the second parchment you will need is covered in water, yet it never loses its ink. Finally, as a friend, I tell you a cart will be necessary and four directions must be gathered to carry it. Know the winds and you will find the treasure. Signed, Verogrim.”
Alnifolia turned to Marogred, and said, “It seems you dropped your map. Wasn’t it the map that guided you to us?” Marogred just glared at him. “So tell me where you got the pendent.” Marogred sat silent for a moment and then realized he had no choice except to speak. He may have been trying to think of a good lie but he decided not to try it. He replied, “I got it from a fellow in Stonebridge. He is the one that told me to find the temple. Apparently some fellow named Malthinines once lived here.” Alnifolia asked, “And what did … this fellow … want in return for the information and the pendent?” Marogred replied, “He wanted me to bring him a share of the treasure once I found it.” Alnifolia said, “Well there are any number of mysteries in this letter; I hardly know where to begin. But let’s stick with the mystery not in the letter. ‘A fellow in town’, who is he?”
Marogred turned his face away from Alnifolia and replied, “I can’t say.” Alnifolia sipped his tea, and replied, “Oh, I think you can say.” And after a pause Alnifolia said, “Gillfort, could you bring me a stick from the fire?” Gillfort bowed his head slightly and replied, “Yes, master.” There was a fireplace in the kitchen I noticed on the walk down the corridor. There was a healthy fire when we came into the dining room. I figured there might be nothing but coals by now. Gillfort stood up and so did Vallen. Vallen put out his arm to restrain Gillfort and said, “Wait here a moment.” Turning to Alnifolia he said, “You can’t torture this man.” Alnifolia replied, “You need not trouble yourself over this man’s well-being. He has news of some evil and we need to get to the bottom of it. His discomfort is his own choice. Would you care to show us how, Vallen?” Vallen replied, “Yes, I would prefer to give it a try.” Alnifolia nodded and Vallen stepped past Gillfort and walked to the corner and knelt down in front of Marogred. He reached out with his hand and cupped the back of Marogred’s head, looked in his eyes and said, “You know what they want to know. Do not let yourself be broken. You have no means to stop them. I can’t overcome them. They will have what they want from you. What could be worse for you?” Marogred replied, “You’re too sure of their power and too ignorant of his. The worst they could give me would be better than the least I might get from him. He gave me the pendent and the information on a promise that I would share the treasure. Do you not understand he is powerful for me to decide I was going to give him his portion of the treasure and not run away with all of it? He is that powerful, be sure of that.”
Vallen released his hand and stood up. Speaking to Marogred he said, “I’m very sorry.” Then Vallen nodded to Alnifolia and stepped around the table. As he sat down he said, “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to try. His eyes told me he believes what he said.” Then he looked at me and said, “Bene, Dravist, please forgive me.” After a short moment of silence, Gillfort stepped into the hallway and came back. He was holding a stick that was flaming on one end, about an inch in diameter and about two feet long. He stepped over and handed it to Alnifolia. Alnifolia took hold of the stick and waved it about a little. A slight trail of smoke marked its path in the air. I stood and said, “My lord, I must step away a bit. This is not the way I handle my business.” Alnifolia replied, “Of course. I know something about your methods. They are effective under the right circumstances, but they won’t get results here. Not tonight.” I lifted my chair and moved around the table the other way and set my chair near the entrance to the room. I motioned for Dravist to pass my mug of tea over to me, which he did. I looked at Alnifolia and said, I believe I could get the information but it will take some time. Don’t we have time for this matter to play out another way?” I took my mug and sat down.
Alnifolia returned his attention to Marogred. “Who is the fellow?” Marogred just looked down at the floor. Alnifolia stabbed him lightly with the flaming stick in the middle of his chest, and Marogred raised his head up and away from the stick. The smell of his vest burning and the sizzle sound spread in the room. Alnifolia said again, “Who?” And now. Looking into Alnifolia’s face Marogred replied, “He’ll torture and kill me.” Alnifolia pulled the stick back and waved his hand over the tip. The flame jumped to life and changed color from yellow to red, red to blue, blue to green, green to yellow, and then became a deep purple color and burning with a fury. Alnifolia pointed the stick at Marogred holding it so he would look and see the very unusual purple flame and said, “More powerful that this?” Then Alinfolia’s voice changed to a deep echoing voice. “I am here. He is miles away. Wouldn’t you rather just flee from this place and take your chances? You don’t know how powerful I am only because I have no need to show you. I will have my answers, tonight.” He began to advance the stick right at Marogred’s face. Marogred turned his face in fear and began to weep, saying “Alright. Alright. He is the merchant Petros, the wealthiest man in Stonebridge.” And Alifolia withdrew the stick and waved his hand. The flame returned to a dancing yellow light.
Alnifolia then said, “See, that wasn’t so bad; no lightning, earthquakes, volcanos.” I stood up and said, “Petros? How does Finlock fit into this?” Marogred replied, “Please, I can’t say any more.” Alnifolia looked at me and I nodded. He turned to Marogred and moved the stick toward his face. He said, “Finlock. Who is he and what does he have to do with this?” Marogred turned his face away again and Alnifolia moved the stick to his face slowly and Marogred blurted out, “He is the wizard in the town. He has nothing to do with this.” Alnifolia looked over to me and I shook my head. He pulled the stick back, waved his hand and the purple flame came alive again. Marogred just kept his face turned away and down. Alnifolia dropped the stick and gave a light burn to Marogred’s hand and pulled back, then he said, “You didn’t think I could do it. Trust me. I’ve done much worse.” Marogred just let out a scream and pulled his hand back as best he could but his restraints didn’t allow much movement.
Alnifolia turned and nodded to Palustris who stood and walked over to Marogred. He reached down and unfastened his vest and shirt. Then he pulled them down as best he could, exposing the flesh of his upper body. He stood and walked back to sit down. Alnifolia waved the stick in front of him and said, “We’ve got a lot of ground to cover tonight. If you can get past these first few questions all the rest will be easy, I assure you. But we’re not going to let evil have a break. Finlock?” And Marogred tried to twist so he could crawl away like a worm. Alnifolia swatted his chest twice with his stick leaving black marks on his skin. Marogred stopped squirming and twisted his face away from us.
Marogred blurted out, “He is the court Wizard, I told you that. Bene could tell you that. Heck, any of these adventurers could tell you that, I bet.” Alnifolia pulled the stick back in a motion that appeared he was about to thrust it into Marogred. “Wait!” I exclaimed. “Please, Alnifolia, let me try to get the information we need. This is not something we can be part of.” Alnifolia relaxed his arm and then lowered the stick. “I’m sorry”, he began, “and you’re right. We can’t do it this way. But there are other ways. Bene, you take a turn.”
This wasn’t what I was thinking when I stopped Alnifolia. Now I was in the hot seat, after a fashion. I stood up and sipped my tea, and placed the mug on the table. I stepped around to the head of the table and picked up the letter and read it again. I stepped over to about the place where I was sitting earlier and asked Marogred, “What is this business about a cart, four winds and four directions?” Marogred replied, “It just means there is a large treasure stashed here; I just need to find it.” I responded, “So you need a cart to carry away all the treasure? Is the treasure in coin or armor and weapons or magic items you’ve been sent to retrieve?” Marogred replied, “I believe it is a large treasure of coin, jewels, jewelry and gems. A very valuable treasure in magic items might not need a cart for only a few things are very valuable. But I wouldn’t know what was in the treasure until I found it.” I asked, “Four winds, four directions?” Marogred replied, “A team to pull the darn cart, that’s all.”
I knelt down and eased him around to face me again and I looked into his eyes. I believed he was telling me the truth on this, so I moved onto something else. I said, “The key and the parchment; where are they?” Marogred replied, “I haven’t found them, yet. They have to be around here somewhere.” I replied, “No, the key, it says here, is something you were supposed to bring here. You knew where to find it before you got here. I don’t think you needed the map to find it either. You know of some signs to show you where the key would be found. So you probably have the key already. Where is it, Marogred?” He looked at me and said with a sneer, “I told you, I haven’t found them yet. I don’t know.” I turned to Alnifolia and asked, “Could Laevis go check his things? I bet he has a key among his things.” Alnifolia answered, “Sure. Leavis, take Gillfort and search among Marogred’s things for a key.”
I turned back to Marogred. “What is this business about the ‘foot-eared dwellers?’” Marogred replied, “That is just a reference to Elves. I met a mob of them and their ears seemed to be a foot long.” I wondered about this. There was a group of wood elves known to have unusual ears. They were known to be very close to some fey creatures much further south. How this character could be mixed up with elves and fey was a mystery to me. I thought I’d just come back to that.
I asked, “What about this parchment? Where is it?” Marogred replied, “I keep telling you, I haven’t found it yet. It has to be here somewhere, I just haven’t found it yet.” I looked up and over to Alnifolia and he smiled, “If he hasn’t found it, we will. If he has found it, they will likely find it among his things.” Marogred glared at Alnfolia for saying that. I suspected there was something else among his things he didn’t want us to find.
Dravist decided to speak up and said, “I wonder if … Bene, I think I know where it could be. I’d rather not speak of it in front of him.” I was going to say, Why, who’s he going to tell? And then my better judgement came over me. There was no need to share any information with Marogred, and having him think we were going to find it anyway might give us a little edge. I replied, “OK, we’ll speak about it later. Nobody will be treasure hunting tonight anyway.”
“Well then I guess the last mystery we want to know about from you concerns Verogrim, the man with the poor handwriting. Who is he to you?” Marogred said, “He is a fellow I met in the capitol who gave me a book about druids. I wanted to learn their craft and he helped me a little. We became well acquainted.” At this, Alnifolia interjected, “Are you going to insult us by sticking to that story of becoming a druid; an outcast from your dwarven brothers; a wanderer forced to learn what little you could from a library book? Please. Tell me your real profession; no not me, tell them. I’m pretty sure I know what you are about. You fancy yourself a rogue, a daredevil, a cavalier. You’re nothing more than a thief and a liar. That’s all you’ve been since we’ve known you.” Marogred turned red in the face. I couldn’t tell if it was rage or embarrassment.
He yelled out, “If there were eight of me against eight of you, a fair fight, you wouldn’t be making sport of me all bound up. Cut my bonds and I’ll show you.” Alnifolia responded, “Eight against eight? How about one against one?” He turned to Vallen and said, “If he were hurt in a fight one on one, would that upset your sensibilities?” Vallen replied, “Single combat, that would be different, so long as you didn’t render him helpless and then murder him. But then he should be under peril of death if he won so clearly he won’t face any of us. He has nothing to gain, really.” Marogred spoke up immediately, “Oh I’ll face him, or you or anybody here. As long as I get out of these bonds I’ll face any of you cowards.” Vallen, Jackwon, and Palustris all stood up suddenly at that remark. Alnifolia calmly said, “Then it is settled. We’ll take up the matter again in the morning.” And with that, he calmly stood up. The druids stood up and the members of my party stood up as well, even Gough. In that moment I wondered what was going through Gough’s mind as he watched us interrogate Marogred.
Alnifolia walked out and down the corridor. Palustris asked Vallen for a hand in managing Marogred. I turned and asked Jackwon and Dravist to take Gough wherever they wanted to keep Marogred. I told them I was going to check on Laevis and Gillfort’s search.
Upstairs I heard them in a room and I walked in to see how things were coming. They had a bed covered in things presumably from Marogred’s stash. There were a few typical woodsman’s tools, an extra blanket, a tarp, a quarter staff that probably doubled as a tent pole, a few lengths of rope, a cooking kit, a fire making kit, knife-fork-spoon, drinking cup. He also had a few small boxes and pouches. They had opened one of his boxes and spilled out the contents; several sheets of paper, an ink bottle, a small ceramic cup, a quill pen and three maps. The maps largely agreed with his story of where he had traveled. One map was the area of the sword mountains. One map was of the capitol. The other was a map of the country between the capitol and Stonebridge. Together with the map he lost, this covers the same ground as his story.
I reached out and grabbed one of the pouches. Inside there was … tocco. I laughed to myself and gave it a smell. I smiled because it smelled like Illihambur’s tocco. I showed it to the other fellows and said, “I hope you don’t mind if I keep this?” They nodded to indicate, Go Ahead. I reached for another pouch while they put the writing stuff away. I opened the second pouch and there were a number of valuable things inside; jewels, coins and charms. I spilled them out on the bed in a small pile. Gillfort let out a whistle. I figured there was at least 100gp in jewels there and something around 10gp in coin. The charms were not worth anything to me, but to the right person they might be worth quite a bit. I wanted to take them to Andante.
I picked them up one by one and examined them. They didn’t appear to come from the same place. The stones were different and the styles were different. While one gem cutter can certainly work in different stone, they usually have a single style to their work. These stones were carved by different men in different styles. In fact, one was distinctly Dwarvish. I remembered my stones and pulled them out. I compared the styles and didn’t note any similarities that would make me think I had a solid clue. I put my stones away. Then I told them I would take the contents of that pouch to Alnifolia to decide what would happen to them. We were down to one more pouch and one small box.
They opened the box and looked inside. It had many small bottles inside, packed in cloth as a cushion. It could have been a dye kit, or some sort of alchemical mixtures to test substances with, but I feared it was a poison kit so I advised them not to touch any of it. They agreed and closed the box. Then we opened the last small pouch. I laughed softly to myself again as I poured it out. A thief’s pick and tools spilled out. It was a standard rolled up tool kit for fine tools. But the handles of three tools were showing that clearly matched the tools of a lock-picker.
I looked up at them and said, “Is that it?” Laevis nodded his head. And I said, “Are you sure?” And he replied, “This is where he has been sleeping. We went through the drawers and his pack. This is everything here.” I looked around the room. I opened a few drawers myself and felt inside. I couldn’t find anything. I asked, “What about his saddlebags?” Laevis replied, “He didn’t have any; no mule, no horse. He was just carrying a pack when we found him.” I said I was going to take these things to Alnifolia to see if we missed anything. I picked up the five containers and went to head downstairs.
I found Alinfolia in his office / study, seated, with a candle on the table and the map / letter in his hand examining it. As I came around the doorway he asked, “Do you have your pipe and tocco?” I said, “Yes, here in my pouch.” He responded, “Please have a seat. Let’s share a bowl and discuss where we are.” I took my seat and produced my pipe and Marogred’s tocco bag. As I filled my pipe I felt something inside and fished it out. There was the key we were looking for. I held it up to show Alnifolia and grinned. “It was in Marogred’s tocco pouch. I may have gone days without finding it.” I handed the bag to him and he filled his bowl. He set the bag back on the table and reached for the candle to light his bowl. I then used the candle to light my own. We each sat back and took a good draw and blew smoke into the air.
I broke the silence saying, “Where will we keep our prisoners tonight?” Alnifolia replied, “There are sturdy rooms downstairs. With them shut up down there we will need only one guard.” I replied, “Very good. I believe we have a long day ahead of us. Do you understand any of the clues in the letter any better?” He said, “Not really any better than the specific information I heard from Marogred, and I’m uncertain how much we may trust that. I don’t know about any character named Malthinnines. I’ve only heard there is a rich merchant in Stonebridge that is quite secretive about his business. I know of Finlock only from you. Verogrim is not a name I’m acquainted with. But now we have the key as you figured he had to have brought that with him. I don’t know where this parchment is and much less why we would need the parchment. The explanation of the cart and draft animals seems plausible enough. But I guess what bothers me the most at the moment is how Marogred could be more afraid of telling us information than he seems to be of drawing our wrath here and now. He must be truly afraid of the evil he knows to be this dedicated to keeping their secrets.”
I remembered what Dravist said and mentioned it to Alnifolia. “Dravist thinks he may know where we may find the parchment. I’d like to call and ask him to come tell us. Oh, and where shall you like us to sleep tonight? Outside?” Alnifolia responded, “Oh, yes. Yes, it would be better if you could. We have quite a bit of cleaning and repair left to get this place straight. I’d not wish to put you up in a filthy room. I understand it might be chilly tonight, but you’re prepared for that. If you could have two of your men alternate with mine tonight, I believe we could keep adequate watch over the prisoners.” I said, “Sure, I think that is fair enough. Could I have Jackwon begin the watch and have Vallen take the last watch before sunrise?” Alnifolia replied, “Sure. That sounds fine.”
I asked, “What about this key?” He said, “Let me have a good look at it.” He held it in his hand and looked at it from every angle, even holding it close to the candle for close examination. He put it on the table for me to take back. I said, “Let me show you the other special things he was keeping. In this box are three maps, a quill, writing ink and a ceramic cup, oh, and several more sheets of paper. I was going to ask if I could keep that, but I realize you can’t get these things easily so maybe you should have them.” Alnifolia smiled and agreed. “Thank you. That certainly seems the right thing to do.” I opened the other box to show him the small vials inside. I said, “I fear these are poisons. I would like to take them with me and have them examined by a specialist.” Alnifolia agreed.
I took out the last pouch and unrolled the tools for Alnifolia to see. I said, “This is a standard set of tools for a lock-picker. These are for picking locks. This is for winding a spring. This is for cutting a spring. These are to make copies of keys.” Alnifolia got a grin on his face and said, “Thinking of a new line of work? You seem to know a lot about these things.” I smiled back and replied, “No, I’m not looking to become a professional locksmith, but in ambassador training we were shown these things. I only know something about their use. It takes much practice, I’m told, to develop the right touch to pick a good lock. There are brute force methods around poorly made hinges, hasps and locks, but to be a good pick you need practice.”
Then I produced the pouch I wanted to keep, but I knew I couldn’t steal it from Alnifolia. I showed him the final pouch and poured the contents carefully out for him to see. He also noted the gems and their value. He picked up each coin and examined the images. He looked at the carved stones also and examined them in the light. He looked at me, “Do they mean anything to you?” I responded, “No, I don’t recognize any of the markings nor the carftsmen’s work. This one appears to me to be Dwarvish but I can’t place any of the other markings.” Then I made my request. “I was hoping you would let me take this bag with me. Of course the jewels and coin are worth just as much to me as they are to you, but I hoped they might also be examined to see if we could know where they came from. The stones in particular, should be studied to learn their origin and meanings.” Alnifolia laughed a bit and said, “Bene Timber, yes, I bet you want those stones and jewels. I tell you what; this is your lucky day. For the rest of your spices and a pot of honey, I’ll let you have the whole bag, to study, of course.” And he winked at me. He knew that out here the money and the jewels were worth nothing to him. The stones should be examined. The spices were worth something to him right now, and they were not without value even in Stonebridge. But out here the spices I carried were worth much more. He knew I could replace my spices for a fraction of the worth of the gems, but that was my affair and he would just let it be. But he added, “And when you come back to see me, I hope you bring another bundle of spices for me and my charges.” I replied, “Certainly.” Alnifolia summed it up, “So I’ll keep the paper, ink and writing things, AND the extra tocco, and you’ll take the rest.” I replied, “Uh, yes, sir.” I hoped I was keeping the tocco.
“Can we find Dravist? I want to know what he thinks about the parchment.” Alnifolia said, “Sure, he can’t be far. Go find him for us.” I rose, “May I leave these here with you for now?” Alnifolia said, “Of course.” I went out into the hallway and back to the meeting room. Gillfort and Laevis were cleaning up from dinner. I asked, “Laevis, where would I find Dravist, the cleric?” He said, “He is downstairs guarding the hallway where the criminals are being held.” I asked, “Where are Jackwon and Vallen?” He replied, “I guess they are outside.” I said, “I need to go speak with each of them.” And I turned to go down the hallway and outside.
Outside I turned to the left where our campsite was arranged. I stepped up to speak to Jackwon and Vallen. I began with, “Anything happen while getting Gough and Marogred in their places?” Jackwon said, “No problem at all for me.” I glanced over at Vallen and he shook his head. Then I said, “Jackwon, we’d like you to take first watch over the prisoners. Vallen, we would like you to take the last watch. This way you’ll each get a good block of sleep and you won’t have to get up.” Vallen replied, “Well then I guess I better turn in.” Jackwon said, “First watch, no problem. Who’s taking the other watches? Who do I wake?” I said, “I think Alnifolia wants Laevis and Palustris to take the other watches. Ask Alnifolia about that. We need to go in and relieve Dravist so Alnifolia and I may speak with him before we turn in.” And with that, Jackwon grabbed his weapons and we headed inside.
We stopped in to ask Alnifolia who had the second watch and he said to ask Laevis to take it. We went to speak to Laevis and then downstairs to see Dravist. Jackwon took over for Dravist and the two of us came upstairs. We came to see Alnifolia in his study. He asked both of us to have a seat. Alnifolia asked, “Dravist, what did you want to tell us about the parchment? It may have been very wise for you not to say anything in front of Marogred, or even Gough for that matter.” Dravist said, “I had a good look inside their temple. Being a cleric, I’m interested in details of temples. I was struck by the typical features and how elaborate they were. The stone low relief carvings were the sort of artwork many clerics would die for in their temples, uh, if you take my meaning. It’s just an expression mind you. Only in special cases would a group invest so much in a temple. They expected years of use by thousands of worshipers to go to such an expense. Then I looked at some of the less typical features. The puddle arrangement was of course the most notable. But the tablets in the rear. They seemed so out of place as if they were placed there after the artwork was commissioned. I wondered why. I believe they may be doors to hollowed out chambers and they were made to conceal their purpose as doors. On the carving on the rear wall the left side, as you face the carving, was a scene of ocean waves. The right side was a rushing river fed by a raging waterfall. In the space near the top between the two were storm clouds. And there were four tablets standing out depicting earth, fire, water and air. The fire tablet was on the left. The wind tablet was higher and just left of center. The water tablet was higher and just to the right of center, and the earth tablet was lower and to the extreme right. I think they may be doors over small hollowed out spaces and the parchment is in the space marked with the water rune. This would fit the clue, “The Parchment is under water, yet the ink never runs.” So I want to look in the temple to see if I am right.”
Alnifolia shook his head, “Now that is quite an eye for detail you have. I think we should do just that, in the morning.” Dravist blushed a little and replied, “As I said, since I am a cleric, I took careful note of these things.” I sat back and took it all in. I said, “Dravist, do you smoke a pipe?” He replied, “No, Bene, never have.” And we chuckled a bit. I said, “Well thanks Dravist. See if Gillfort needs a hand and then we’ll get some sleep outside.” Dravist stood up and said, “Sure thing.” And he left.
Alnifolia and I finished our bowls of tocco and I stood up and made my excuse that I would need to gather firewood before turning in. Alnifolia said, “Oh, just get a bundle from our fireplace. You can gather wood tomorrow when the light is good. No need for that tonight. We have plenty.” So I bowed and went to get the firewood. Back outside I threw several pieces on the fire and went to arrange my bedding. I looked up and saw the stars. It was going to be another cold night. I put my things away carefully and made notes in my journal. This took some time because it had been an eventful day since finding the bear.
52nd Planting, 221
I woke up a little late today. The sun had already created a glow in the sky but although with the trees on every side I believed the sun had not yet broken the horizon. The birds had been active for some time. I woke when they came to get Vallen for his watch. I tried to fall asleep but it wasn’t easy. There was one noise after another for a woodsman to notice. I heard the dew collect on the trees and begin to drip from the leaves. I heard some small nocturnal animals heading back to their burrows. I heard the owls give up on their night’s hunt and I heard other animals start waking. The birds were the worst. Some birds just seem to live for the chance to get up early and make such a racket. In the meadow you don’t get much of that, but in the forest, it happens all the time. So I tossed and turned until I opened my eyes once and saw the glow in the sky. Being a woodsman I always rose early so it was past time for me to get moving.
I threw a few pieces of wood on the fire and got it up and glowing. Even though it was getting light, this was always the coldest part of the day. The sun being down all night allowed the air to cool until it came up again, so this was as cool as it was likely to be. I found the coffee pot and put it on the fire. Then I went to get Dravist and Gillfort up. Jackwon got to sleep late so I wanted to give him some more time. While I was making preparations for breakfast, I wanted to talk to Gillfort to see what he learned from the Druids the day before and to see if his loyalties should be in question.