Session 22 - Into the Barrens - Diiroehn's Report

General Summary

Governor d’Tharashk,
We are still perhaps a week from away from our return to beacon. Though with matters as they are the sooner you are notified the better, and I hope not to forget any details before we can next meet.
Despite putting some distance between us, Beacon and Zenirs northern camp we still encounter his scouts, suggesting his influence has spread farther than I had expected. Again, my compatriots chose to show the beast mercy, and despite my better judgement agreed to maintain Forges promise.
And again, we have been punished for showing them benevolence. The scout returned to his pack and they proceeded to hunt us through the night, eventually catching up to us over the barren plains. I shall spare you the details, suffice to say this encounter proved almost fatal. Zenir intends to march on Beacon with a force much larger and much more prepared than this.
We are beyond the realm of diplomacy, and I refuse to take chances.
Guard shifts will be increased for the foreseeable future, with explicit instructions to kill any gnolls spotted near beacon on sight. In addition, a sentry will be assigned to you at all times. I appreciate your need for autonomy and privacy but given you have been targeted specifically I hope you’ll understand the need for this in the short term.
As for a solution to this matter, a direct conflict seems inevitable, with perhaps one exception. The gnolls harbor a special hatred for me, which I’ll admit is deserved. They want me brought before Zenir for what I expect would be less a peaceful negotiation and more a ceremonial execution. Do not eliminate this as a possible solution if it could mean preventing a second slaughter of Beacon. Consider carefully, and we shall discuss this further should we make it back from the foundry.
D.A.K
Addendum: The weave is volatile and unpredictable, as are the tides of chaos. With that in mind, the losses we have suffered on this expedition were unavoidable. I’d ask you to not remove Harriet from the field for an unfortunate misfire, nor allow her to do so of her own volition before she has met her potential. Replacing lost items and livestock can be paid for from my coffers.

Report Date

09 Dec 2019