of elves and emperors and dragons

[cellio]

( Larissa's diary )

letter to Brion

[cellio]

February 15, Beliaberith

Dear Brion,

May the blessings of Pelor be upon you.

I trust that by now a letter from Boniface, a priest of Pelor in Kozel'sk, has reached you, and that you have heard of our visit to his temple and in particular the surprising shrine we found there. I don't know if he described it, but it was quite familiar to us: it was just like the statues I've told you we've found in the past, including beneath Shepford. We have learned more about this: it is, in fact, the ancient religion we suspected it might be. We do not know much about the worship yet, but I believe its practicioners are working on the side of light.

We have learned some things about the troubles of the land -- much too complicated to write here, but be assured that we are doing our best to set things right. I fear that we will not be able to do so before spring planting, though, so please remind the townsfolk: if pools appear they are to be healed as quickly as possible, but do not under any circumstances poison them. The land is all connected, and poison in Shepford weakens Covanion too. Fire also has some effect against the creatures that come from the pools, but fire alone cannot cleanse the pools. Prepare for a lean year, just in case.

When you last wrote you said that you thought a certain someone had something special in mind for me. I now believe that you were correct, though he also has an ancient partner, it appears. When you said I should seize it tightly, I had no idea that you meant this literally. I have also received knowledge, insight, and skills that I would never have imagined possible. I have an exciting path ahead of me. I will tell you more when we speak. For now, know that the power of Sunrise is ever with me.

Have you heard any word from Tobin since he left? I hope that he is doing well. It's a dangerous time to be travelling alone.

I have heard that Colm has opened a tavern in Covanion, the Rearing Dragon, which is having some success, particularly when he serves Nithelin's special brew. I believe that this tavern also attracts many bards and other travellers. Naturally you shouldn't believe everything you hear, about us or about other things, but you might hear news from there at times.

Please convey my best wishes to Jehan, and if you could pass the attached letter to my parents I would appreciate it.

I am unsure where we will be by the time you receive this letter. We are in contact with Lady Mairead and Seamus in Oakhame, and that might be the best place to send letters for me. They will be able to read them to me, at least, if not convey them physically. These two are completely trustworthy.

We hope to travel to Cardior, and when we do we will seek out the priests of Pelor there as well.

May Pelor's light continue to shine upon you.

Larissa