16th December 356 AC
To ensure we arrived at the High Clerist's Tower at the appointed time haste was essential and so we made an early start to our continuing journey. Indeed, such were the time constraints that we even ate the midday meal without pause, though we were forced to stop occasionally to give the horses brief rest.
As the afternoon wore on we were surprised by a sudden thunderous crack in our midst. A swift inquiry confirmed good health among all our number and, though the sharp eyed Kender did find shards of fine glass and traces of explosive components, we continued on – confounded but uninjured. Sometime after nightfall a scream was heard from Julie (the merchant's daughter) and both her parents were found to be dead, poisoned. It seems possible that some agent lay dormant within them and was activated by whatever chemicals the explosion released along the road, for no soul had access to them since they came under our protection. This theory is not without its gaps of course, for instance where did the mysterious explosive come from and why was the child unaffected? I pray that these questions will be answered in time, I do not favour the foe that hides himself in a web of concealment and falsehood; better to meet face to face in honest battle.
With little else to do we pressed on, finally reaching the Tower shortly after midnight. Upon announcing myself and Sir Dominic we were granted entry and met by Sir Charles, Captain of the Guard. The Captain kindly arranged rooms for each of us and took charge of our prisoner, whom he recognised. It seems the wretch was actually a commander of sorts and led troops against this very stronghold in the siege of the Blue Lady. I cannot help but wonder what precisely the merchant was dealing in to be troubled by so powerful an enemy. The beast will trouble no other innocents though as I expect he will be executed without delay. I must say I am pleased to have denied some lucky bounty hunter such a valuable prize.
Before I was able to retire a cleric came knocking at my door, apparently Sir Dominic desired access to the library which requires the permission of someone of rank. Nobody else of rank was awake at this hour. The cleric accompanied me back to the library where Sir Dominic explained he needed a particular scroll for the last part of his quest. I was left with the vague impression that he was not being entirely open regarding his reasons but, I have faith in my brother Knight and conceded to vouch for him.
The long day finally over I returned to my chambers and much needed sleep.
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