The Journal of Titus Garibaldi

In recent months rumors have begun to spread throughout the lands about a strange group of men. It is said that they are thieves, murderers, and traitors. It is said that they are the greatest warriors of the age. It is said that they seek to betray the empire to its enemies in the north and the south. It is said that they are the empire's last hope. It is said that they are bringing the judgement of the gods themselves to the world.

The leader of these men is referred to in whispers as the Infernal Strategist. Disaster is said to follow him, but he somehow always manages to twist events to his own favor. Where did he come from? Is he a general, a noble lord, or just a common man seeking a road to greatness? It is said that he is from Sanctuary originally, but nothing important has ever come from that benighted city. Some say that he was responsible for Sanctuary's fall, and others that he led the charge to liberate it.

And now the Infernal Strategist is said to be coming to Ranke.

We've finally arrived in Yssegelund, and what have we found? A land beset by cold and famine, where people and animals alike have been twisted by strange powers.

Was it folly for me to bring my companions this far, where we are likely to starve, freeze, or be murdered? I suppose I have become arrogant, believing that I could be the one who saves the empire, rushing off to the ends of the earth and leaving behind my responsibilities at home. Kafen faces the emperor alone, I've left Melerra in charge of my household when I don't know how far I can trust her, and Tilly... I suppose I still feel some responsibility for her, even if she has been hiding from me all this time, and I from her, to be honest.

As for my companions, they still seem to follow me willingly for the most part, though I'm not sure I'll ever understand why. I've learned to my sorrow that I can't keep everyone alive, but I must do what I can to ensure that I'm not leading them to their deaths. I fear that will not be easy in the times ahead...

After the long journey with little rest and brutal fight, exhaustion is beginning to show in Titus' face and voice, but it's clear he's trying to hide it.

"I know everyone is tired, but we're not out of this quite yet. Here's what we need to do. First, once we're a little closer to Northwatch, Galen, I need you to go out and see if you can make contact with the Rangers of Northwatch. Hopefully we can trust them; in any case we're not in much shape for another fight, and they may be our best hope out here.

"Once we've made contact, if they seem trustworthy I intend to surrender to them." Titus waits for the chorus of objections to die down. "I know, I know, I don't like the idea either, but the truth is we need help, and a place to rest. We need to convince the rangers to trust us. So everyone be on your best behavior. That means you, Tristan.

"In the meantime, Garr, I need you to talk to the child and learn what you can from him. We have to figure out what's been happening here in the North, as soon as possible..."