Letter from Brion

[ralphmelton.livejournal.com]

This letter finally reaches you in Oakhame:

November 22

Dear Larissa,

May Pelor shine his blessings upon you, as he has shone them on us in giving you and your companions to us for a time.

We have heard the songs about your heroics in Edwest Burrows, and are very proud. We've recruited a bard named Feladan to come to Shepford to compose songs about your deeds here.

Jehan's tavern is fully repaired, and finer than ever. He still grumbles occasionally about the ham you experimented on and the alcohol you consumed, but he is quick to boast of your patronage to travelers. I've little doubt that your drinks would be on the house if you returned.

We have been blessed with a good harvest this year--enough to share our bounty with Timberthorp, though it means lean eating for all of us. (They had pools of slime that spawned monsters, similar to what you described below Shepford--but they used poison to kill the pool, and their crops withered and died soon after.)

Young Tobin has been growing in knowledge by leaps and bounds. He seems restless here, and has had many questions of me of what it means to be one of these new rat-kin. I have seen him talking with Feladan as well... I suspect that when Feladan leaves, Tobin may leave as well. I shall miss the little fellow nearly as much as I miss you.

Ah, those are the words of your old priest going soft with age. I feel sure that your destiny lies elsewhere than here, and I would not call you back.

I think Pelor has something very special in mind for you, my dear. When he grants you opportunity, seize it tightly, even if it surprises you.

What else to say? Your parents are well. Maria is quickly growing into a most attractive and pleasant young woman--the change is most impressive.

Remember us and Shepford, my dear, as we remember you.

Brion

Larissa's diary

[cellio]

( Kozel'sk, mostly )