Journal of Arcadius - Day 46

The Mundane and the Exalted

Kenneth and Alcander left to escort Ryan's remains back to Point of Origin, along with Marion, who seems to be recovering - though only the gods can be sure. As we were unsure if Ryan would want to be resurrected, we felt it best for his family and our superiors to decide. Kenneth seemed eager to take on the task, and I wonder if he will be eager to return. Alcander was seconded as one is insufficient guard in the wilds these days.

May the gods guide them and give them strength.

The rest of us returned to the strange underground Caravanserai and confronted them about Oda and the events surrounding him. After some considerable discussion we became convinced that they in fact were not part of his original capture and neither knew nor cared of the circumstances. Untrustworthy folk, but not such villains that we could slay them with clean conscience. In the end we recovered Oda's horse and the remainder of his gear, though it seemed his original captors took all his gold.

We then returned to the surface and debated our plans. We decided to resume our work underground, slaying those monstrosities that were within our power and leaving the others for now. Unexpectedly, a man named "Tupper" rode up with a letter in hand from his excellency, the ruler of Point of Origin. In it, we were told this Tupper was to assist us in our work and that we were, when possible, to return to Izmir to deal with the cursed grove in the center of town.

I must note as an aside that only my upbringing as a Guardian and training as a Paladin enabled me to keep my composure upon hearing the name "Tupper", as in my language "tup'r" is a slang term of very rude and... intimate nature relating to personal hygiene. Honor and decorum dictate that I not mention this to the others, and will do my best to remember I am in another land with another language. I will say no more on this matter.

Tupper is an investigator, and as it turns out, a specialist in breaking locks and disarming traps. He returned with us underground while we, under Hrogar's astonishingly thorough guidance, collected such valuables as could be carried on the cart. Tupper dealt with several impediments along the way, including the hitherto seemingly immobile chest. We then returned to Izmir.

In town, we occupied ourselves with selling items and planning a visit to our wizard contact. Hrogar seems to be developing a considerable knack for commerce. I find myself once again wondering if he is truly meant to be a Paladin. May Pelor guide me away from such harsh and skeptical judgments!

Sometimes our deeds are mundane even while we work toward lofty goals. Necessary, even if some scorn them.

In the remainder of my time, I prayed. Every day the light of Pelor is renewed in my mind and spirit! Truly, it gives me comfort amidst the growing dark. Soon we will be venturing into one of the very hearts of that darkness. Surely light will triumph. O' Pelor, guide and protects us! May we not fail, may we not falter, may we protect the innocent and the weak from the evil we face, and may we triumph over that evil. Praise be to the gods, and glory to Lord Pelor!

*A*