Red Moon Over Sartar Campaign

Summaries for December 10, 1995

Dear Uncle Orbius,

I would like to bring a small matter to your attention, that may end up having larger implications for the Empire. This is an attack, by the influence of the evil goddess Malia, launched upon us here in Runegate fort, apparently by the old Tarshites. My guess is that the attack was a provocation, intended to instigate a crackdown on the local natives. This might in the long run lead to a rebellion, and a chance for Tarsh exiles to seize some territory for themselves, by joining in against the Empire at a time of their choosing.

But enough of theories far beyond my pay grade, and probably either obvious or laughably wrong in your eyes. The problem:

Everyone in Runegate fort got sick. After some contretemps in which it was revealed that the locals are really afraid of disease, we found out that the disease was apparently spread from about five miles north of Runegate.A small group of eight men claiming to be fur trappers, but suspiciously well armed and competent with their weapons {only fur trappers I've ever seen kill beaver with a sword} were discovered, and attacked in their cave. Consulting Detective Severus and Pvt Cenil distinguished themselves by their bravery in unsuccessful assault on the cave. After which we camped outside and I was sent for reinforcements. This led to the surrender of the bandits, when they saw two squads of lunar hoplites stationed outside the only entrance. Interrogation of the bandits revealed that they were hired by an individual later identified as a shaman resident within the borders of Old Tarsh.

The bandits were hung for murder. During a short raid into Old Tarsh, Pvt Rockfrug, an Eolian slinger, demonstrated an aptitude for intelligence work and unusual bravery, performing some wet work upon the shaman. The spirit of the shaman then attacked him ... inflicting Soul Waste upon him. So I had a hell for leather ride back to the nearest {Sartarite} stronghold, where the Sartarite Chalanna Arroy healed him. He owes her one.

The reasons for my concern are: The shaman paid the bandits in brand new broadswords, total worth about 2000 Moons, and an unknown number of silver pennies. When we looked into the shaman's residence, it was clear that he wasn't able to pay the mercs out of his own pocket.

Also, the Tarsh exiles are fanatically anti-chaos. What were they doing tolerating a Mallia shaman living in their town {with a couple of apprentices, no less}? Are the Tarsh exiles allied with powers even our Blessed Goddess loathes?

There may be more to this than meets the eye. Then again, there may not. I am reporting this to you so that it can be considered for possible significance in light of the big picture.

Permit me also to suggest that the Spoken Word may benefit from approaching Pvt Rockfrug, and offering him shamanistic magic items and/or training from the school of Red Masks, in exchange for participation in special operations. His courage {or perhaps foolhardiness} is impressive, and he has no hesitationin going places where his official status may not protect him.

If the Spoken Word should learn anything about what Prince Hezbod has done now, would you please communicate this to me. Mulcius is starting to worry.

Personally, I'm doing fine ... and have purchased a fine new sable fur hat ... very comfy ... these barbarians have some practical customs after all. If only we could teach them to bathe ...

Yr. Dutiful Niece,

Yasna