A Earthen Brown Leather Tome with Dwarven Runes and an Open-Palm Hand

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 20th, IY 7789

Ulfgrim brought me flowers again today. It is a small thing, but it fills some hollow space in me, if only for a moment. He said he does it because he knows that it makes me smile. I wonder what brings him joy? He has seen so much suffering, buried too many to count. How does one endure such weight without breaking?

Perhaps we do not. Perhaps we only become something else, shaped by what we carry. I fear what I am becoming, and I fear what he might become too.

"One can only shoulder so much, before they are changed by it." - Ulfgrim Grimgarson.

---

Haknar and I spoke of the Rathgan formation. The charter is in order, but bureaucracy moves slowly, as it always does. I must meet with Gold Legate, Vellyn, to finalize the process. Then to speak with the White Legate, Alexandria. Back and forth we go, dancing on a thin line to make things move. Politics frustrates me. So many words, so many steps just to reach the inevitable.

Yet, I know it is necessary. The Rathgan must be recognized, given structure, and given purpose beyond the battlefield. If I must wade through the mire of governance to see it done, so be it. It is not war, but it is still a battle, one that must be won.

---

The Spleen Eaters.

And the war drags on. The Spleen Eaters held firm in their Fortress. Ulfgrim, reckless, relentless Ulfgrim, charged as he always does. [A hesitation.] He may be reckless and relentless, but he is also brave, stalwart, and courageous. He does not fear death, for he tells me that there are many on the other side who are eager to greet him again. But, what about me? Whatever.

As he always does, he fell. Not dead, not yet, but wounded enough to be forced to rest. This is where I failed. To be fast enough to mend his wounds. To react to the Voidcallers voids. So, I will sit by his side, mend what I can, and watch over him until he is well. A task that should bring me peace, but does not. I have seen too many slip away, even as I held them. Not from their physical wounds, but from the wounds inflicted upon the mind. The psyche. I must find a way to bring him joy, and fast.

And so I lead in his stead for now, moving forward because there is no other choice.

But how long before there is nothing left of us? Before all we are is duty and loss? I wonder if he thinks the same. I wonder if he sees what I see.

Where is our joy, our happiness? Our win? I remain vigilant. Tired, exhausted, but in the morning, I will bounce back. For I must keep moving forward.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- Lost amidst the void.

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 22nd, IY 7789

Ulfgrim is up and about again. It didn't take long for him to be better, thankfully. I guess my tactics for healing him were potent methods. Though the blessings of Izzakhar accelerated his healing, he now has two new scars to add to his already massive collection. More stories etched into flesh.

After he did a bit of board work, together, with a few others; Remi, Tyg, Olga, Rodor, and the two of us took to the Dalzoc. Tyg used this intricate strategy with one of the Helmets of Whispers, with the so apt name, Wounding Whispers upon it. He charged into the center and I watched as he took down an entire legion of Hobgoblins just by standing there and letting them swing at him.

Regardless, Ulfgrim has been feeling a bit better, the wounds are still fresh, the bruises still tender, but I'm just glad to see him moving around again. I was worried for a time.

---

The meeting with Vellyn went well. Understandably she is upset about her situation regarding her emotional outburst in the Hall of Jurisprudence. She was upset. We all would be if someone as close as Inanna was to Vellyn were to pass at the hands of another, by someone we passed in the streets many times over. It's so easy to forget, but we are all living lives. We pass by one another, touching lives in unknown ways. It's hard to remember that in the blink of an eye, all can change. Taking the life of another should be no easy thing, ever.

Either way, she approved the official charter of the Rathgan. While the Stele was temperamental and wasn't accepting it, she told me that she would speak with Alexandria and get us some way of being official. We're trying to continue in some way the goals of the Duunthall, but we are learning from its history. We are being more open and public with our moves and goals instead of secretive.

We don't want a repeat of the Treason.

---

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- The Shadow Realm of my dreams nightmares.
---

Then, the War Council. It was good, longer than usual. I've offered myself for Faith's task should Theo not be able to make it. He said he would be interested, but now he just has to tell Faith that himself. I am also of the opinion, that when the attack on the Flame Palace is to take place. That the Rathgan should attempt to assist in some way. We need to get our names out there, and let Ephia know that we are here to help.

In the meantime, I'll do what I can to get the others stronger. To search for scrolls for Tharrik. To find new weapons for Yorin. To tend the wounds of Ulfgrim. To bring in new recruits, brothers, there are some promising options. Sevor, Klaus, Burdumz. That's the best I can do for the time being. Just until we are strong enough. For the Orc'ah are always improving.

And we need to be better.

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 23rd, IY 7789

"Sloth, disinclination to action. A deadly vice – spiritual apathy. Loves not, hates not, cares not. Interferes with nothing. Lives for nothing. Dies for nothing." - A totem made from the teeth of a Bodak.

---

The day the howls of pain silenced.

I had the opportunity to join a mission set out by the Warmaster. Faith brought me along on the mission to free the beast chained, tortured, and imprisoned by the Orc'ah. The creature they were using to birth, mould, and shape into monsters against us. Beasts capable of breathing flames and with a deadly bite.

We met with Zyn, he told us that the route to the Forge had been discovered, and  that we were to go in and 'stop the Bronzeflesh from ever seeing the surface of the Disc again.' There would be no second chances.

It was no easy battle. Ariixaka, a Gudari of the Sukaitza, perished. While she was not exactly the kindest of souls, she had passion, gusto, and was willing to work with us Rathgan for our projects. The fireballs just continued to fly in, and before I knew it, a Bronze beast had her in its maws.

Further in, after some very close calls, we arrived. Some smith spoke to us, offering to serve us if he could continue his creations. Doing so would mean the 'prison' would remain, pained, tormented, suffering. We declined of course. After the harrowing battle, and more close calls, we prevailed. I'll not forget the look of relief upon Faith's face to see the smith fall.

Evanderall's excellent shooting, paired with Itzalle's ingenuity allowed them to get the far northern chain, one that was suspended above molten metal. Without their quick thinking, we'd still be stuck in there, trying to free the beast.

As the charges went off, Faith was a hero. She returned to where Ariixaka fell, carrying her body to the defence position whilst the rest of the building and tunnels collapsed. No one left behind. Even the dead. It is good knowing that Ariixaka will return home instead of being buried in that molten tomb.

The Sukaitza will make sure of that.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- The Bronze Beast, free.

I am grateful that those on this mission could witness Baalera's mercy and, in their wisdom, set the Bronzebeast free. Though it may have seemed fearsome, monstrous even, we did not let fear dictate our actions. Instead, we showed it kindness, proving that strength is not merely in the sword but compassion. I am grateful, too, to be alive, so that I might return to stand once more at Ulfgrim's side and with the Rathgan, to continue walking the path set before me with purpose and faith.

There will be many trials ahead. I'll need to be ready, and so will the Rathgan.

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 24th, IY 7789

I was nearly injured today.

Not in battle against a Titan of Dawning, nor in some arcane duel against Yr'kel, a warlock of great and dark power. No, it was something far simpler, and yet, it nearly spelled my end.

Upon the boardwork jobs of Hufaidh, alongside my trusted companions, Evanderall, Olga, Faith, Remi, and of course, steadfast Ulfgrim, we were beset by pirates. Not mere bandits of the sea, but warriors attuned to the storm, wielders of lightning whose arrows struck with the fury of the heavens. Ulfgrim is of belief that they are of the Ṉ̴̃̔i̷̗̜̟̳͍͕͙̦̘̯̩̙̟͉͊͌̒̚͘͠͠͠n̷̩̮̣̲̐̐̈͛͝͠t̴͚͎̫̺̘͖̖̺̳̑̿́̽̂͛̇̏͗̾̈́̆͠͝h̴̢̡͎̣͙̺̜͍̜̖̒͌̈́̀͗̃̇̊̌͝ That is possible.

Foolish of me, I strode forward, seeking to unravel their fears, to pierce the veil of their bravado and expose the trembling souls beneath. But wisdom delayed by arrogance is no wisdom at all. Spells take time, and in that time, they struck. Their arrows bit into me like the storm itself reaching forth, and their big-muscled brutes swung at me, fast and hard, and in that moment, I was reminded of something all too often ignored.

Mortality.

Dwarves live long, centuries upon centuries, but we are not immortal. And more often than not, it is not time that claims us but battle. Too much confidence, too much belief in one's own invincibility, these are the failings that send even the mighty to their graves. Today, I was fortunate. My companions, my dearest allies, stood by my side. Without them, I would have fallen, and that would have been the end for me.

Let this be a lesson to myself, some wisdom gained. Strength lies not only in knowledge, not only in power, but in the wisdom to know when to use them. Never again shall I underestimate an enemy, no matter how crude their methods may seem.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- The Coast of an Unknown Isle in the Sea of Pearls.

If anything though, I will say that the islands of Hufaidh are beautiful. Their waters shimmer with the light of the sun, their skies vast and unbroken. The Sea of Pearls glistening, and for a time one forgets about the edge of the world, and the Ash burning away at life. But there is not enough snow here, not enough stone.

I think a trip to Kulkund is in the coming future. I miss home. I miss [There is an ink blot that lingers, but the rest of the sentences does not come.]

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 26th, IY 7789

The trip to Kulkund occurred.

We of the Rathgan, save for Yorin, went to the Mountain. To gaze at its beauty for Klaus had not been to such since his arrival in the Well. That, or perhaps he does not remember it, what with his amnesia and all. We were able to show him around, reading reports from Inquisitors, investigating the breached mines, and finding the old dwarven hovels.

It was nice visiting again, though I thought I saw the collapsed tunnels I escaped from. But I can't be sure. It was a while ago now. It's been almost two months since I arrived at the Well. Twelve days, and then it will be two months.

In that time, I've met so many people, become somewhat of a heretic to my people, made friends, found kin, discovered passions for alchemy, and graduated from College. It's been quite the journey thus far. Running into burning molten forges to rescue a creature from torture. Warring against the Orc'ah. Creating a home for Dwarves of the sands. It feels good to have found myself under the light of Izzakhar.

My truth.

---

After much work, patience, and back and forth conversations, the Rathgan has been officialized as a position within the government. Whilst we are mainly a guild of sorts, the Stele has issues making that sort of thing. So in its place were titles made. The Legates are aware of our charter, and I suppose Aurelio is now too. For some reason he was interested in knowing how much wage we make.

I feel an uncomfortable pit in my stomach were I to tell someone such. Gold make me uneasy, which I understand how that sounds being a High Dwarf. But, learning of my people and their propensity to hoard it, much to the harm of others, the Deep Dwarves for example, I worry about jealousy, envy. Things of that nature. He looked at me suspiciously, which in truth hurt, then merely said he would go around me and ask another.

I won't be like my ancestors before me. I'll use the coin I have earned through Izzakhar's creations. Potions, wands, and scrolls - maybe even alchemy too now! and help voice my kin. To help others, to give people goals and quests. I've even offered to give coin to people who help retrieve alchemical supplies for me.

Shadowstone is always in great need. I've managed to make a shadow chameleonic potion that coats one in darkness. It's useful, I guess, to people who are naturally sneakier than I. If anything though, it's quite fascinating. I've also managed to acquire some more alchemical based gear, so once I acquire more Shadowstone, I can test out my more difficult recipes. Who knows what creations I can make to bring aid. To be useful.

That's what I tell my Brothers; Be useful. Let the Well know of our talents, so that we are not forgotten. So that we are seen.

We'll see what the rest of the day brings, but so far, things are looking good. I know I've scolded myself in the past for writing early diary entries, but, I just had to write and paint whilst the Well was in its hours of quiet. The sun still has not risen, not yet at least, but when it does, I'll be ready to capture it.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- The Demons Gaze, Pra'raj.

As the dawn comes, we will see what else the day holds. Perhaps more work, more trials, or another discovery waiting beneath the sands. Whatever it may be, I will face it as I always have. With purpose, with faith, and with the will to carve meaning from the stone of each passing moment alongside friends.

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 27th, IY 7789

Once more, we journey to Qadira, this time to contend with pirates. Their ships are curious things, each bearing the mark of a life lived on the edge of law and chaos. I wonder how many have sailed under their banners, only to meet their end upon the waves.

Ulfgrim spoke, in passing, of vacations. A fleeting thought, but perhaps one worth entertaining. Yet, where on this Disc could one find true respite? Certainly not the Well. A place of heat, dust, and ceaseless scheming. No, it does not lend itself to peace. But then, do any places?

Maybe our Hall could serve as a place? I'll have to think on this more. I'd love to go on a vacation with just Ulfgrim. I think I've only ever seen his actual smile once. It'd be nice to see it again.

---

In other news, we were able to purchase Klaus a Voice. This is good. He should now be at least somewhat protected under the laws of the Well. Safe from being Voiceless. It also means that our political influence grows too. Whilst I detest the politics of the Well, it is an essential game to play.

Yet, it is far from a game. People live and die by it, and some are made and unmade by its very schemes. At least now, the government will recognize Klaus as Rathgan. It is good to know the history of the Duunthall, and attempt to learn from their past mistakes. Walking more publically in the eyes of others, instead of so secretive and hidden.

---

I feel as though I am on the verge of a breakthrough in my studies of dark magic.

'Unbound, we circle this dance and still can not escape. Our will is fleeting when evoked by the art old. Each path forward is another back. So they dance.' - Anima Restrico.

Jealousy. Envy.

These are negative emotions most time, and yet I cannot help but feel them. Shum has found the answer to a question that I have been seeking for quite some time. Somehow, he has attracted the attention of a seemingly neutral entity that has bestowed upon him a gift.

A gift of power; Knowledge. Knowledge that I lack, and desire all the same.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- The Shadowed Storyteller, name unknown.

I am jealous. I'm aware enough to at least acknowledge that. Not of Shum's path, but of the knowledge he is granted. To wield darkness, to shape it rather than be shaped by it. This is power worth seeking, what I seek. But wisdom tempers ambition. I must be patient. In time, all things will be revealed.

Instead, I will turn my gaze to the ruins surrounding Formoria, to the secrets buried beneath its stones. The dead remember what the living forget. Perhaps they will yield the knowledge I seek. I wish to understand the dark, to stand near its power, but not to lose myself within it. I will hold to the light of Izzakhar, as a flame that tempers the shadow. One must know both, lest they be consumed by either.

If anything though, it was an honor to be in the presence of something so old and ancient.

Wisdom, light my way.

[CrimsonMedicine]

Hziran 28th, IY 7789

"A curse in the hands of the righteous becomes a blessing, a curse in the hands of the enemy remains a curse." - The Storyteller.

I think about these words often.

Darkness. Light. Walking the line between with knowledge gained. One could burn life away with an overabundance of positive, as well as wither away disease with negative. Too many times, people look at the surface of something and call it good or bad. I think of the Crucible beast, begging to be saved. Its appearance caused a few to stumble, to question. Yet, I still believe its intentions were good. It wanted to be free, free of the suffering the Orc'ah were causing it.

Good can look bad, and evil can look good.

Izzakhar teaches that wisdom is the key to seeing beyond illusion, to recognizing truth where others see only shadows. I strive to walk that path, though I wonder how often I falter, how often my own prejudices blind me. Still, I trust that understanding will come, as long as I seek it.

My alchemical specialty is, after all, focused on the dark shadow energies of the realm. In and of itself, it is quite a terrifying theme to work with. Evil, some might say. Yet, the blessings and magics of a Speaker make one naturally resistant to the awful effects of failures. Instantaneous death is quite a deterrent for academic study. Still, whilst it is an area of esoterics that I study, I still walk in the light. I have at least been able to find some useful recipes.

An Eclipse Stone - Capable of calling forth pockets of darkness. Paired with a Mass Ultravision and one is concealed in the dark and able to see.

A Shadowray Rod - Potent negative energy channeled to a focused point and aimed at ones enemy.

A Jar of Shadows - A recent discovery, and very difficult to make. Offers a versatile option for magics from the plane of Shadows to be implemented. Though, it does require some practice to wield properly by those of light.

[Korinthus Dûngir's Painting Check Skills are Above Average.]



- Jar of Shadows.

---

The Night Annihilators.

The Prime Rippers.

More forts fall to the Union. The trees of Auld burn as we progress towards Bet Nappahi. I prayed and prayed during my absence on the raid of the Wall. For those who fight bravely to remain safe.

But I grow weary. The weight of war presses heavily upon my shoulders, on all of us, and I long for the end. Let it be near. Let the battle's toll be counted, and let the dust settle so that we may see what remains.

When the blood has dried and the war songs have faded, I will turn my gaze to the Holds of the Dwarves. To Got Valdhazr. A place to reclaim. A home for my kin; Ulfgrim, Tharrik, Yorin, Klaus. The names I hold close, the bonds that keep me moving forward.

I must persevere. I must lift my head, though it grows heavy. Wield the light, though the darkness closes in. To falter is to fail, and I will not fail. Not now. Not when the end is within reach.

Wisdom, light my way.