That is good but troubling news from Kowal! I am glad to hear that the resistance has started in full, though anytime there is violence, it is not easy to celebrate. To be free of the yoke of Uthgard and their oppressive views, we must sometimes push back.
I have good news to relate from Elmhearth as well! We have had quite a few expeditions this last week with a good bit of progress as well. The old Valantian tower that was found has been cleared of adversaries and is now being fitted as a stronghold along our road. It is going to cost quite a bit, but I believe the Wanderers can donate a little gold to help build the parts the settlement needs. Mainly a barracks and armory to start. While 400 gold will deplete our treasury here a bit, encouraging the development of strongholds and settlements further out will outweigh the current shortfall.
Another group has come back and forth to the mysterious mine a couple of times. They are still tight-lipped about what it is, but seeing the flow of Valantian and tritium items being sold to the Storehouse, I can probably guess what it is that the mine was producing. Their mage, Tersh, has spent a lot of time researching monsters in my library, so I do not think the mine is completely in our control.
I am also happy that Uthgard, or any power related to them, has shown almost no interest in our settlement or what we are doing. I heard that Craven’s Hollow has even turned away their tax collectors. With the war out east and the flow of iron and tritium coming from their mines up river, it seems they are content to let us be. If something or someone does not provide value in the eyes of the ones in power, they are often invisible. Which works in our favor in this endeavor.
Well, I am heading to the Firelight Tavern, one of the more prolific Westbounders, Alric, is performing a ballad tonight about his recent adventurers. I am sure he will provide me with some more information about our current roster, as well as entertain.
May your adventures end in safety my friend,
