Letter 34

Dear Herkus,

I understand now that I don’t have to be so formal writing to you because you are basically my family. But I will continue to practice. 

I got the chance to give Shadow the journal. I truly hope it helps. I know I need a way to focus and even if it’s a little odd it keeps me going. 

I feel so very… indescribably confused. Actaeon and I were keeping watch while the others rested and we noted someone on the bridge to the Necropolis. I knew I needed to speak with the Lich and I wondered aloud if that is who that was. After a small conversation Actaeon decided he would be heading down that way and I said I had his back. I didn’t exactly want to leave the rest of the group but I also didn’t want him to go alone. I assured the others we would watch out for each other and we would be safe. 

I was terrified. I had to keep reminding myself to be brave. At one point he asked if I was saying that to him. Of course I wasn’t. That man has bravely locked down. I think it’s fed by some insane death wish but the fact remains it’s there. I needed it for me. Actaeon kept calling out to the figure, asking if he was the Lich. It was horrible. I then realized we came without the coin. Flee had the coin. I was sure we would die if we got too close or provoked this person. They were obviously the Lich. I mean, you can’t really mistake that! And he was also obviously guarding the gateway to the resting place of the 1st order of Dragonlords. Somehow the others caught up to us and in my panic I asked Flee for the coin. Actaeon was willing to pay the way but I’m ashamed to say I didn’t trust his actions. I never know what to expect from him. He makes me so nervous! So I held out my hand and the Lich took the coin…

I don’t know how else to describe what happened except, it was like I was transported into a world of stars, similar to the drink. But the stars shifted and moved and created images. It showed me my tattoo in its fullness and it showed me Amalj’aa and Khar’shan and indicated to me it was them who bestowed this curse on my family line. But not why. Then I knew I needed to go to Scorpion island to find the Lotus Witch. But Herkus, I can’t go there! We both know why. 

Then in the blink of an eye, it was over and the coin was gone from my hand replaced with a gem of brightness that had my family emblem on it. 

I was no longer afraid. Just stunned and shocked. I felt as though I trembled in my very soul. For the first time since my parents died I had some answers, but now even more questions. Like why? WHY did they do that to my family? 

We entered the Necropolis after that and now here we are. 

I don’t want to be here at all.

With much love,

Briar