Strange Tale of Aeran: The Encyclopedia Esoterica by Calliope Pendergast pt 2

Northeast Verden, outskirts of the Skeldergate Forest

During my travels I found myself on the shores of Lake Istel. A rather large freshwater lake positioned on the outskirts of the Skeldergate Forest which was said to have once been a nexus thick with fey magics. Though now that case is heavily argued and scrutinised absent any confirmed sightings of the fabled beings in decades. But one aspect can not be argued: strange eldritch energies have made their ways into the soil and water and vegetation. Most here are in excellent health, though not supernatural, the animals also seem to carry a slight rise in intellect and understanding. Even if the previous fey presence has all but withered at least according to the Verdish Inquisition, their lasting fingerprints still exist all over. Around the lake lie several small, sleepy villages. If they could be called that, only a handful of people called each home, but everyone was very kind to a scholarly stranger like me. Despite being so far out of the way of the larger hubs of civilization like Hardford and Therborough, they seem to be doing very well for themselves. Though not completely shocking, I was surprised to find the local inhabitants knowing very little about the history and folklore of this world famous forest so close to where they call home. Though unsurprising they all spoke of the forest being strange, and the fact they only went as far as needed for food, and no one was willing to explore too deeply into the vast thicket, which has been synonymous with mysterious disappearances and supernatural happenings since seeming time immemorial. My money is on those will-o-wisps that the Skeldergate is so known for.

As I sit here now, contemplating the passing of the ages and the natural beauty of the land, the trees, green hills and streams, my eyes were met by an unexpected creature that had crept up on me. A rather morose looking bullfrog of above average size. I have decided to name him Arnie. I have also taken the liberty of including a meticulously drawn image of my new friend for the edification of you, my dear readers. If you are ever in these parts and see him. Tell Arnie I said ‘Hello and that Professor Pendergast remembers our pleasant little conversion’.

I wonder where we will go next? Perhaps a proper ancient ruin? Speaking of ruins, I’ve travelled in the Two Kingdoms for more than a decade but I have never yet made it to the remains of the old city of Opra Dale that were abandoned since the fall of Queen Thalia’s reign in the last century, who had been the last of the elven line of monarchs dating into antiquity. It’s said to be a dangerous area full of infernal beasts and not worth the risks, but I hope one day to see it for myself.