Delian’s Letters

10 Vult, 998 YK

Greetings, father

We have returned to Delver’s Dale, our mission mostly successful. We were able to rescue seven of the eight prisoners. Unfortunately Kartenix, Ragnolin’s friend and the man we were here to meet, was killed by the monsters that inhabited the catacombs. I have no doubt that Kartenix fought bravely to free himself and his son before being killed.

Kartenix’s son, Tharunn, was greatly affected by the violent kidnapping and then by knowledge of his father’s death. He was extremely taciturn in the days following his rescue, but he is young and strong. I have no doubt that he will recover quickly. I have spent time explaining the cycle of life, death, and renewal to Tharunn. I don’t know if it’s helping him, but I know it’s the right thing to do. Having lost mother when I was a boy, I can greatly sympathize with his current situation.

Over the past couple of days he has taken a shining to the party. When he is not in the care of Jalissa, another one of the freed captives, Tharunn follows us around Delver’s dale. I’ve even seen him imitating us and pretending to be an adventurer battling monsters. I suspect that he is reenacting how he would have saved his father if he was bigger and stronger, like we are. Again I have become a reluctant role model.

I have worked with the local clergy to council the other kidnapping victims as well. My training in diplomacy and human interaction has proven remarkably effective. I have made many friends in Delver’s Dale and I know that my efforts have provided the victims with some comfort. In many cases they just needed someone they could talk to, someone who would not be judgmental. I was happy to do it and could feel the flame burning within me as I helped so many people deal with such a terrible ordeal.

We have pressing matters in Flamekeep and will be leaving in the next couple of days. Hopefully we’ll have time to stop in Sigilstar along the way. I miss you greatly and long for the familiar sights of the home.

We decided that it is best for Tharunn if he remains in Delver’s Dale in Jalissa’s care for the winter. Bringing the boy on the road is too dangerous at this point. When we depart Delver’s Dale I hope that Tharunn will not revert inward and shut himself off again. I have spent time with many of the townsfolk assuring that the boy has the love and support he will need in the coming months.

Hopefully I will see you within the next month, father. Flame keep you safe.