Orrin Widtucker - Letters to Zepherius

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
 Hope that this letter finds you well. Although this letter is long overdue, I thought it best to let you know that I have arrived safely in Hlint. It is a bustling place with all manner of people. Never have I seen such a mix!  My funds are low at the present, but I have been able to pick up a few odd jobs. The local Postmaster has had me deliver the occasional urgent letter, not very exciting but it brings in some coin. On the advice of a fellow adventurer, I made a short roadtrip to Ft. Llast to enquire about some employment.  The commander of the fort could not hire me, but asked if I could help in restocking his weapons locker. I am working on this.
 Hlint also seems to be plagued with an undead problem as well. Several of the crypts seem to have periodic reawakening of skeletons, zombies, ghouls.  On these occasions, a posse is put together to deal with the situation. I have thus done my civic duty and  ventured into these tombs several times.
 When I first arrived in Hlint, I was befriended by an enormous orc (or was he a half-giant ?) named Glokk. Glokk gave me a full tour of Hlint. During our tour he introduced me to the the tax collector whose records had gone missing.  Glokk said that we should try to retrieve them, so we went into a rat infested sewer and eventually located them. The return of the tax records brought in a nice little reward. Glokk also helped me destroy a goblin scout band that had camped outside town. The local quartermaster had a small bounty on them that I was able to claim. Although I have trained long and hard with my sword, my efforts looked pitiful compared to this giant and his ax !
 Given the uncertainty of the local situation,I have redoubled my weapons training in my spare time. My main focus has been with wielding this fine sword with as much skill as I am capable of. In addition, I have been making occasional short, local trips to collect wood and harvest cotton. It may be necessary to learn  a trade to supplement my income and this might be the start.
  Although it is probably nothing, I had a most strange dream just before I arrived here. In the dream, a dragon said that I had been summonsed to help in the war against Blood...That mean anything to you ?  It has somehow been a bit unsettling to me. There is a local temple in town, dedicated to Ilsare; it is a nice place to go and meditate.
  I think that I may be spending a good deal of time here, so if you need me, you can address a letter to me, " in care of  Postmaster Vale, Hlint, Mistone." Vale seems a trustworthy man and I am sure he will make sure that it gets into my hands.
                                 -Orrin-

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
 Too much time has passed since my last note home, yet I have been so busy it feels like yesterday. I continue to reside here in Hlint, although a permanent residence is beyond my means.  I’ve been able to explore the area around town, gathering resources, but every trip is dangerous. I have been apprenticing in all manner of craft, as time and resources permit but as of yet, I cannot say that I am particularly suited to any trade and it  may  well be that my destiny will be with sword in hand.
 As you taught me, I continue to train hard in the martial arts. I believe that I am beginning to show some superior skill in the use of this sword. I have also trained hard to move quickly and have learned to dodge and evade my opponents. Alas, although this sword has served me well, the heavy use it has seen in both combat and training have taken its toll on it. I think that when I am able to gather the coin, I will have to replace this trusty blade.
 I had a disaster on a trip to the village of Krandor.  After an arduous journey, my companion and I had stopped to rest. We were woken by an attack of some sort of vine. I did not fare well, but slipped into the void. It was a staggering setback, but I have recovered, and am a bit wiser for the experience.
 I also went on a boar hunt with several others of my ilk through the trackless wilds near here. It was quite an adventure and pretty much a success. We encountered and destroyed all manner of hostile creature foolish enough to challenge us.  At one point I was poisoned by a dire spider, but after a frenzied rest in dangerous lands, I made a full recovery.
 Hope this letter finds all well with you.

Orrin

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
Well I know you probably only just got the last letter, so I’m sure you will be surprised to get another so soon, but I wanted to update you on some unusual events that occurred and thought it would best to do so while it is fresh in my mind.
 It started out as a routine trip to forage for resources in the nearby forest of Sielwood.  Normally one finds few who tarry in this haunted place, so I was stunned to find a party of about eight in confusion and disarray. It turns out the party had just had an encounter with spiders….giant spiders…. and some of them were in tough shape. I quickly offered my sword to aid their cause. The party leader, a drow named Ayreon, accepted my offer.
 It was determined that they had a need to go the High Forest to search for a ranger.  It was a tough trek because all along the way, we encountered all manner of bizarre, tormented creature that would turn hostile no matter how carefully we would try to deal with them.
 I also noted that several of the party are drow. Drow!  May Kithairien help and guide me.
 We eventually were approached by a mage (also drow ?) who said my drow companions had been cursed. Something would change them into driders… Apparently I had stumbled into a party looking for the cure for a drow curse and something changing the animals. .. One of my impetuous comrades loosed of a crossbow bolt at the mage. The mage responded by instantly killing him with a powerful spell. He was beyond any healing or resurrection skill on hand.
 This was all very confusing, but I must remember that my strength is my sword not my wisdom.  
 We eventually found the ranger, who was drunk, confused or afflicted.  I know not which. After getting what little information we could from him, it was decided we must go to place named Spellguard to seek more information.
 Along the road, the ground ominously trembled and I was knocked to the ground.
This earthquake continued for a bit an then suddenly we were under attack by a gigantic purple worm. It must have been 100 feet tall. Despite our valiant efforts to defend ourselves, the worm managed to kill Ayreon.  When that deed was accomplished the worm just as suddenly left. Fortunately the local healer from a nearby temple was able to restore Ayreon and we were back on the road. (I’ve never moved so fast in combat in my life, yet it was not nearly enough).
 When we arrived at Spellguard, we were directed to seek out a powerful gnome, who could help us. The gnome (who was very impressed with himself) said he could indeed help. He did some spell work and then transformed into some kind of monster that attacked us!! After a brief but intense fight though, we prevailed. Notes found in the gnome’s house revealed he was behind all of the bizarre animals, and curses in some kind of vendetta against the drow.
 There is no combat training like actual combat and this adventure has really help hone my skills yet also shows how lacking I am. So I have redoubled my efforts to wield this blade with all great speed.  I practice this over and over again, as you showed me, but now I always train with multiple opponents at once.
Speed and precision with this blade…. they are my closest allies.

Best regards
Orrin

// These events occured on 8/1 as part of Ayreon's CDQ pt.2 to which I accidently happened on. It was the first DM  quest  that I have ever been on and even though I had a very minor role, I had an amazing time ! Thank you to all who allowed me to be a part of it.

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
 It was a great treat to receive your letter; it puts my mind at ease knowing that you are managing fine in my absence. We are truly fortunate to have such an amazing postal system.
 I have purchased a fine new sword, forged in iron, from a local dwarven craftsman. Although the price was dear, it should serve me well.
 My martial training continues. Over and over and over again I practice this art … But, as you predicted, I now realize that although the physical training is essential, it is not nearly enough.  I now know that to be the best that I can be I must prepare my mind to be rigorous and at one with my body and my weapon.  I do not know what path this will take me down, but I am starting this journey.
 To this end, I have in my local travels found a place in Sielwood known as Rangers’ Vale. I have begun to travel there, as time permits, to quietly meditate and focus my mind.
 I have also begun to dabble in alchemy. It would be a great aid to be able to craft potions to prevent or to counteract poison for example. It seems to me that it is not possible all is known about the results of combining the various resources available.  However, I suppose the truth may be that this hobby is really a foolish luxury and should best be left to the wizards.  I find it fun nevertheless.

Orrin

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,

A quick note to bring you up to date. Had a chance to venture a bit further away from Hlint of late. I joined with a group of companions on a long journey to Ft. Valensk. Thought I might find some material for alchemy and gain some further knowledge of Mistone.
 There was no time for sightseeing. The journey turned into a series of running engagements with hostile creatures. We were beset by shadows as we traversed the Broken Forest, later we were confronted with griffons, but the toughest battle took place in some swamps near Ft. Valensk. It was only through the fighting prowess of one Rell Kaver  that we were able to carry the day. He was inspirational, but, then our group was well disciplined and stayed within their combat styles. The worst moment came when one of our halfling companions was taken down by arrow fire. By the grace of Kithairien I was able to get to her and drag her to safety. This encounter in the swamp was by no means a victory...but then we walked away alive so perhaps it was.
  After getting our supplies in Ft. Valensk  we started to head into some mountains. The pass into the mountains is jealously guarded by golems that turned out to be impossible for us to destroy. again, due to our party's discipline we were able to break off combat in good order.
 So now I am back in Hlint, with a bit more knowledge of  Mistone.
 My martial training continues, but it is not a chore, it is as essential and natural as breathing or eating. I also continue to meditate, clearing my mind, mentally swinging this fine blade in an effortless fashion. I think this is beginning to pay off. Very often, in combat and training, I don't so much feel that I've gotten any faster, rather it seems that my adversary is moving so much slower..
 Well that's about it from here. I will put this note into Postmaster Vale's hands knowing he will get it to you.
As always,

Orrin

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,

Lots of hard fighting today. It started out quietly enough, but then, just outside of Hlint, I was confronted with a troll being chased by some armed men. I drew my sword preparing to strike the troll down, when I suddenly realized, the 'troll' was a badly wounded spellcaster being pursued by bandits. Made short work of the bandits and most certainly saved the hapless mage.
 I then was enlisted on a trip to help clean out some more undead from a crypt. It was awful. These were some sort of very disturbed undead. Great evil must emenate from this place. We all fought hard and honorably but the group suffered from too many leaders. The goal was accomplished but it was an extremely harrowing fight. (where are the paladins when you need one ? ) . Again though, the training, both physical and mental paid off. Even though I still have my revulsion for these undead things, I was able to overcome my terror and attend to the nasty business at hand.

Orrin

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
Met a young, idealistic paladin (of Rofirein I believe) named Shae who also wields a bastard sword. I have given her my old one that she might be a little better equipped in combat. She was ready to pay me for it but I would not hear of it. I  told her  that it was hers on two conditions: 1) always wield it with honor and 2) when she has no further use for the blade, turn it over to some other worthy warrior in need. She said that this would be the case and I know she was sincere.
   I have somewhat overcome my dread for the undead. While being in these haunted crypts is still grim, I have had to go all too often. The trick is to just concentrate on the task at hand.
   Poison is my greatest challenge now. On several occasion I have been bitten by venomous creatures and it is always nasty. The strength is just totally sapped from you and it takes all the fortitude one can muster to just press on with the fight. I have seen seasoned, hardy warriors incapacitated in minutes after being bitten.  Perhaps one is best to fight these creatures with ranged weapons.  Perhaps. But I think that is not always possible and besides I am far more proficient with sword than any bow.
   If you have any advice on how to deal with this bane, please let me know. I think I might start investigating antidotes on my own as I continue with my ‘hobby’. There are a couple of mages that I know, maybe they have some knowledge on this matter.

Orrin

[Olme]

Hlint, Mistone

Dad,
This letter is overdue but at last I have had time to write. Nothing dramatic to report, in most ways little seems to change day to day and yet….
I have been on several expeditions with various groups and have roamed through a good part of Mistone.  I have grown more confident in my combat abilities and at the same time continue to observe and learn.  There have been some pretty impressive warriors that I have been fortunate enough to fight along side of and I have taken every opportunity to learn what I might from them. Because of this, my training has taken a somewhat unexpected turn. I have begun to spend time on learning combat strategy: How best to organize and deploy a group of often headstrong individuals into a competent fighting force. I assure you that this is not easy, but for the group, and thus my survival, it is time well spent.
I have a lot to learn, but already I know that a small, well disciplined and organized force, even if the members are in and of themselves weak, can be far more effective that a mob that just charges into peril. Thus I try to travel in small, cohesive groups.
 Also made a trip to Rilara. It was alas, all too short a time. Point Harbor is such a beautiful city.  I can’t wait to get back there.
 I have also spent some hard earned coin in upgrading my armor.  I commissioned a local dwarven craftsman to make me a fine new suit of full plate. It is very nice, but comes with the price of added weight. This I am willing to endure as the added protection is worth it, although I must get used to the new feel and balance of it.
 I continue to concoct various alchemy concoctions, and my skill at curing hides grows as well. It helps pay some of the bills.

 - Orrin -

[Olme]

Port Hampshire, Mistone

Hope this letter finds all well back at the old homestead. Your recent letter was all too brief, but I understand how difficult and hectic life can be and any news from you sets my heart at ease.
 I have been spending more time in this beautiful city. It is well situated on the coast of Mistone and living conditions here are so much better than Hlint. That is not to say that they are any less treacherous. An unprepared traveller is soon a dead traveller.
 I have become good friends with a halfling monk named Rugo. He is an amazing person. Fearless. Fast. He can do nearly as much damage unarmed as I with all my iron. And what a scout !  Together, we have explored much of this area and help each other out as we are able.
  I have been fortunate in being able to fashion some fine leather garments from hides I have gathered. It brings in little coin but does make me self sufficient. I continue to progress in my study of alchemy although my progress is hindered by lack of some material.
 As always though my training with sword continues. I am able to strike more powerful, accurate blows than ever, but still I know I can do better. So it is this task that I continue to make my number one priority. While on patrol, I had a skirmish in some swamps near Hlint with lizardmen. Although I find them repulsive, they are worthy opponents that fight with great skill. Those that do not understand this will never leave the swamps that they rule.
I know this is all to brief but I must get on the road again. I will write when I can.
May Kithairien watch over you.

-Orrin-

[Olme]

Port Hampshire, Mistone

   Well it's been a long while since I've written and it troubles me to realize that I have been this deliquent. I have essentially moved to Port Hampshire although my accomodations are still of a temporary nature. Port Hampshire is much more convenient to travel from and the facilties for alchemy and hide working are first class. This great city is very busy also but is more of a commercial center so that one does not usually see large numbers of the adventuring classes such as is common in Hlint. Yet even so, due to the fine harbor here, everybody seems to pass through at some point.

   Finding a suitable house to settle down in has become a time consuming and frustrating task. If I could find one here in Port Hampshire, it would be ideal, but, I think I shall be fortunate to find one in all of Mistone. Patience is required I guess.

   As I mentioned before, I now travel, whenever possible, with Rugo the halfling monk. He is a fine fellow. We have been through lots of extreme danger together and our bond of friendship just grows stronger. I also had my worst moment ever with Rugo. During the heat of battle, in close combat with a number of Ogres that had besieged us, we managed to kill the Ogres, but I also accidentally sent Rugo to the void. It was hard to regain my composure, but the soulmother was generous, and Rugo was soon back at my side. This just shows how much I need to redouble my efforts to meditate, and train to always be in control..there just might be a halfling ally on the other side of that Orc I'm trying to slay. I must be more precise.

   On occasion, we have met other halflings in our travels and sometimes it is easier for Rugo to converse in this tongue. I asked him if he could teach me this strange language and he said that he would. So ..the lessons have begun..you might need to get that halfling tavern owner, Wilton Stoutweed, to read my next letter !!

   I also met and travelled with a wild elf named Telsinda. I think that she was most amazed when she heard me, a human, ask for Kithairien's blessing, and then saw the shield with The Runner emblazoned on it. She said that that she will be able to help me with my faith, and that she might be able to introduce me to a cleric of the Runner that she knows. I would be most greatful for this.

-Orrin-