(All of Raktor’s “journal entries” are in the form of meditations with nature, as he is illiterate. His thoughts are in his native Hallit.)

(In the dark of night after exploring the monastery, Raktor sneaks off quietly to keep company with the large tree discovered by the adventurers. He kneels in front of it, by the darkness of the new moon, placing his hands and forehead upon its immense trunk.)

Old Tree, I feel your spirit. It is strong. Can you hear me? You are ancient and have seen the passing of many seasons. Lend me your solace in this strange land…

I feel the pain wracking through your ancient limbs. The pain of axe and steel and fire that has scorched and razed large numbers of your children nearby, their souls extinguished in the service of humankind. There lies the tension in nature’s balance, does it not? For your children are part of nature, yet humankind is also descended from the same Mother. Whose needs shall be placed before the other?

I do not pretend to know the answers, Old Tree. I hope only to guide my fellow humans to respect you, to take only what they need and not one branch more. It may be that I and others like me will fail, and that your spirit and those like you will pass utterly from the world. It is not for me to say.

Grant me wisdom, Old One. I seek the the path of my spirit journey. I sense great danger to my totem ancestors, the saurian spirits, from the same vile forces that attack my people from the east—the so-called Worldwound. I don’t know what the danger is, but I know the answers lie in the vision I beheld at Sipapu, the Earthnavel.

I saw a jungle teeming with life, saurian spirits, and then the demon plague. I must seek this place out to find the answers. Can you tell me where it is, Old Tree?

I hear your leaves rustle the answer. It is not here, and that is all you know. It is as I feared, my wanderings will continue until I find what I seek. I chanced upon this forlorn Vale and have made the acquaintance of some good people that will perhaps help me find the answers to my vision quest. Perhaps after we cure the ailment that afflicts the nearby villagers.

Farewell, Old Tree, and may your spirit remain strong. May you be left standing when the last axe falls. I do not know how long I will remain here. I will come visit you as I am able. For now the sun rises, and I must return lest my absence be discovered. Farewell!

(Raktor stands and withdraws, returning to the group before the others awake from sleep.)