Late last month, a solitary traveler arrived in the frozen pines of Ithaqua. He came silently, walking the streets with the crunch of snow and ice under his boots. He claimed he was told to come by a cleric, and he was believed. The man spoke with Adelena, seeking knowledge of much and more. He wove a story of his life and travels, his words smooth and practiced. His tale was a stirring one, and in common with most of the residents of the frozen north. Adelena was cautious, untrusting at the first but the wanderer was silver-tongued. He spoke of spirits, of shamans and his curiosity. He was allowed to peruse the library, his excitement was tangible and he was profuse in his thanks. Seeking to join the icy halls of the Frostbringers, the man cajoled, acting the part of a sincere scholar and gained entrance.

The man spoke with the Wildgraf, the Heart of the Ironwood and others. He asked to be allowed to rest. The traveler feigned sleep until such a time as he was left alone. He slew Aepia, the Librarian and stole several books, tomes and manuscripts from their library of Ice and Snow. Writing a taunting note in the blood of his victim, the traveler absconded with his cache of books.

When the body was discovered a cry of alarm resounded through the pines. A small group comprised of Sulphius, Alabis and Wyna acted in accord with Tessurke to commune with the spirits in order to seek an understanding of what the traveler intended. They were shown a rough image of a cloaked man only briefly. A mournful tune was heard immediately after, causing much alarm.

The wandering traveler returned briefly, taunting those he encountered with promises to return the stolen volumes. He laughed, begging them to release him to return to Dis. They were not inclined to grant his request, asking instead for him to give over his own talisman, a silver flute. The Wildgraf took him hostage, yet the man slipped the hold and sliced his own neck upon the jagged sitara. As his warm blood seeped into the snow and ice, his body faded amidst the steam.

Does the traveler remain in Dis?

Penned by my hand on the 21st of Fas, in the year 643 AD.