“Soraya’s note says to look for her at Spirit Lake, under a tree,” Burt reads off the parchment, still catching his breath.

You thank the lucky tides for your narrow escape from a gruesome demise (being pecked to death by a flock of cranes and herons is no joke) and making it safely across the land bridge, which has now disappeared under the rapid currents of Tariam Bay. You and Burt stand shoulder to shoulder as you look back at the swooping specks in the distance. No doubt the water birds had returned in hope for easy pickings before the water level got too deep to dive for fish…

The hour to depart from the Guild’s quarters couldn’t come fast enough. After spending so much time inside watching your fearless leader heal, the idea of an adventure was gnawing at your heels. You spend the day gathering your equipment and provisions, as the journey to Spirit Lake could take a few days. Burt squirms with excitement with every passing shade…

You and Burt make it back to the Guild just before dusk.

“And now we’re back at this old place,” says Burt, looking up at the towering structure. “Got that note Soraya gave you? Okay, let’s find Allard.”

Several days have passed since your return from the Northern Mountains. Allard is recovering well, considering he has lost his eye and one of his arms has been skeletonized. Burt somehow managed to become even more obnoxiously self-confident since he discovered he has the Mark of the Phoenix. However, both have been at each other’s throats since the party’s return. Luckily, you have managed to act as the glue to keep the group together. It’s hard for three full-grown whiskers to be sharing the cramped Guild Quarters.