Chapter 0: Into the Flames

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I couldn't do it, I just couldn't! Throw myself into the flames? That my mind balks at the thought might just mean that I'm not hero material after all. However, the real heroes - Bob, Eisen, Rukar, and Harrim - were ready! Now, from here, I only have the stories that I've heard to go on. Probably best to assume that most everything in this journal from here on out is being written after the fact; it's simply easier that way.
Myself, Amiri, Jaethal, and Syr Valerie stayed behind to help out in the grand hall and ensure no more threats arrived.
Now on to the real story! The heroes leapt into the smoking hallway beyond, ready to rescue Lady Jamandi Aldori from the Black Tears. They pushed through, letting the fires rage before bursting through to a gallery where the gnome Tartuccio lay unconscious. A short argument brought the attention of nearby assailants, but they were quickly dispatched and even led to the rescue of Jaethal, who was caught unawares by the black-hearted cutthroats. The mysterious woman heard mention that Lady Aldori was caught in a battle with a pair of giants and the leader of the raid - the heroes had to act quickly!
And act quickly they did! From all accounts, they charged headlong into the fray - putting down the mecrenaries in a matter of moments. Some even said that the battle was over so quickly that even the experienced swordlord had to pause in appreciation. We met up not long after that, when Jaethal led a brigade of guards in to extinguish the fires. The night was... understandably tense as we stay in the east wing together to wait until the morning. Thankfully, no further attacks came and Rukar kept me company with a very detailed explanation of what had transpired. Very detailed.
The morning saw Lady Jamandi giving out the promised charters to everyone - though may of the original adventurers were no longer among the living. No doubt she had to make several adjustments before the ceremony. The rude Iron Wraiths, prickly Hannis Drelev, and rather wonderful Maegar Varn all received their charters to various places around The Stolen Lands. Finally, it was our turn and we received our very own charter of exploration! After that... it was time to set out and carve out our own destinies... and our own kingdom!
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