Musings of a Future Baron - 15. Travel Time

Sunday 9 Desnus 4710

We were assaulted by bandits as we readied for bed. They’re getting either bolder or more desperate, and I’m not sure which.

One of them had a Diadem of Vast Intelligence. I gifted it to Theofrid, to aid in his casting. As much as I keep insisting he’s part of the team, he still hasn’t seemed to accept it. Perhaps he needs more responsibility, to show that we really do trust him. I told him he is now in charge of our funds. If we need something, we will go to him to make sure we have the money for it. I will be watching our gold, but I feel that he can be trusted with the gold. I pray my trust is not misplaced.

Moonday 10 Desnus 4710

Amiri and Valerie got into an altercation this morning. Over embroidery. I honestly don’t understand; Valerie was mending clothing while on watch and decided to memorialize Tuskgutter’s death in stitching. Amiri took offense to that for some reason, though the scene was placed on her clothing. I settled her down by pointing out that it was like a trophy, a way to show people how strong the barbarian truly was. It seemed to placate her. For now.

Between the argument and hunting, we barely made any progress today. I will have to remind Amiri that we only need to supplement our rations, not hunt every night.

Toilday 11 Desnus 4710

Theofrid came to me with a concern today. Our rations are low again. We have enough for a full day’s march, and no more. Our only choice is to head back to Oleg’s and regroup.

Wealday 12 Desnus 4710

We’re following the Thorn River north. I have us walking through the night through more familiar territory, but it is still a risk. I will be happy when we reach the post.

Oathday 13 Desnus 4710

We made it to Thorn Ford today. Crossed with no problem. My sleep was troubled again by the burning house. Perhaps we should head to the Shrike River before the Tuskwater.

Fireday 14 Desnus 4710

Octavia greeted me with a warm smile when we arrived at the post. The poor girl actually tried to flirt with me. Is this how Keston feels around me? I sincerely hope not.

Theofrid mentioned that he took the liberty of selling off our loot today. Some eight hundred gold was added to our funds. I made sure he knew I was grateful, while also inquiring as to our rations. The gnome admitted he had forgotten to replace those, and scurried off to rectify the mistake.

We rest in bed tonight, recover, and then head out tomorrow for the Shrike River.

Desnus 14 4710

I almost blew it today. How could I forget food? It would have ruined our next expedition.

A month in a strange land. A month far from the comforts of civilization. I pray we finish soon. I will do what I can to hasten our victory. To that end, I picked up more material for the jewelled rice the party seems to enjoy. With luck, we will reach our goal this time.