Searching for Monks (04/07/2007)

From the writing of Nalla Mann --Bartender of the Bloody Nall Tavern

The Pineappleman paced back and forth as the rest of the men ate their meal and talked. It had been hours since Kandu had left to scout ahead—he should have returned by now.

Then he saw him staggering out of a line of trees. All the men stopped as Kandu approached to give his report to the Pineappleman.

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"I found the remains of what appeared to be your friends camp" Kandu said –out of breath.

"And?" The Pineappleman asked.

"There appeared to have been a struggle—As if they had been dragged away----but the camp was fresh- maybe only a couple hours old—their fire still burned."

Kandu took a drink of water then continued. " I followed the trail where it lead into the mists. It was like the mist swallowed me whole----choking the air from my lungs. As I climbed higher the mist grew heavier—oppressive—it felt as if it was a living thing—as if it was trying to steal my breath. I got lost couldn't see my way –so I decided to turn back.------There is evil ahead"