And we begin...

This Godsday  began like any other Godsday that I can remember. My family and I got up and went to morning services as is our custom. Upon arriving at the square I saw Fr. Fharris accompanied by his server Salem in preparation for the morning's events. The whole town was there and we all gathered to hear Fr. Fharris' sermon, when something quite unusual happened: the sky began to turn black. Fr. Fharris reassured his congregation by saying Regius has graced us with his presence. But the break in his voice and his hasty conclusion to the services belied something more than coincidence or heavenly manifestations.  Many townsfolk rest at Riordan's inn after services and today was no different. The common room was a buzz with conversation- mostly about the darkening of the sky just a few moments earlier. Gahiji and I found a table on the porch and sat down with Lothar and Salem. Riordan joined us shortly and we too could not resist indulging in the topic of the moment. Elfred, Lothar's uncle came in with some most disturbing news. There have been reports of wild animal attacks south of Oakshadow, and it was his charge to rally an exploratory party to find any truth to these reports. He asked if I would help serve as the party's guide as where he intends to take them can be dangerous to inexperienced adventurers. I naturally accepted. Whatever is going on out there must be more exciting that harvesting another yam.  We agreed to set out the following morning.  Salem, Riordan and Lothar all volunteered as well as the Farmer Farkus and the carpenter Josiah.  After a quick breakfast Riordan was generous enough to provide we set out to gear up on the few weapons and armor the watchtower could provide, then off to Fharris' for a quick prayer.   The road to the river was easy enough to travel.  We soon crossed the river and continued our way south.  Shortly after Gahiji grew restless and began to growl. He sensed something.  Neris. Foolhardy kid followed us. After a short scolding from Salem we turned him around and back on his way to Oakshadow. We continued are trek and before settling in for the evening, I thought I'd double back and check in on an abandoned farm we passed. Lothar, Salem and Riordan joined me.  I am now very grateful they did.  In that farmhouse I saw a most disturbing sight. A thick sticky pool of dried blood.  It could only be done by a large canine animal.  Probably rabid and extremely large in size. What was left of the body we found about 100yrds away. Poor man probably never heard it coming. That night Gahiji became restless and ran out into the night. Completely out of the ordinary for him.  Upon entering a clearing we saw a mysterious glowing sphere of light. Is this the forrest light?  We followed it as long as we could but it vanished before we could catch it. What we did catch was Neris. Damn kid almost got himself killed this time.  I fear his carelessness could bring harm to those around him. He's headstrong and mistakes stupidity for bravery. Couple that with his complete disregard for authority and the mixture is potentially very dangerous. I'll have to keep an eye on him. The next day we make it to the Shield and Stein inn.  This monstrous building was once used as a lookout point during the Savage Wars and is a sight to behold. Inside we see a unique cadre of individuals. Then again looking at our motley crew I guess we blended in just fine. Not long after our arrival a very large man walks behind Elfred and clasps a meaty hand on his shoulder and says: "I've been looking for you.". Let's hope this doesn't end bad.