A reclaimed page from Iobar Malinowski's Travel Journal
Entry 30: Misty Domains
My expedition to the Marsh Nest marked a historic occasion, being among the initial visitors permitted after the reinstatement of Queen Pyril, following the departure of their revered Queen Lapis. I must confess, I approached this visit with a tinge of apprehension, well-aware of the recent political upheavals and local strife that had cast a shadow over the marshland. Regrettably, my expedition was cut short due to unforeseen encounters with the local fauna.
For security purposes, I was graciously accommodated within the secure confines of the Mirefort Palace as part of the Starrian envoy, prioritizing safety over the ongoing tensions within the nest (and also between our nests). Despite earnest attempts to ensure our comfort, it was evident that the Mirefort Palace had weathered multiple instances of damage over time. Recent efforts by the elders to reconstruct several key chambers were underway, though we did not stay to see the completion of these projects. Queen Pyril, opting to hold court in the Golden Orchid Courtyard instead of the damaged main hall, was sighted multiple times by our team. She exuded power and fostered an air of authority befitting her role as a strong leader, though I had heard rumours of her fierce temper. Indeed, her creative use of a wrack newt would instil fear in anyone.
Typically traversing Dravisdor in research teams, this marked the first occasion where we were assigned a private tour guide—a notable shift in our usual mode of exploration. Leaving the confines of the Mirefort Palace, I was struck by the immediate shift in conditions. The lower we descended in the nest, the more dire the circumstances of those residing in the Marsh. Several times the envoy had to resort to physical intimidation to stave off groups of vagrants. Alas, intimidation could not rid us of the pungent odours that lingered in the air, an unwelcome companion throughout our journey.
Throughout my stay, I was cautioned about attacks from loyalist insurrectionists such as the Fielfen, and especially the sole 'White Mask'. However, even without the spectre of potential assailants, the most formidable danger concealed within the marshes was not the wildlife but rather the elders themselves—a sentiment echoed by locals.
Notes to Self:
Entry 30: Misty Domains
My expedition to the Marsh Nest marked a historic occasion, being among the initial visitors permitted after the reinstatement of Queen Pyril, following the departure of their revered Queen Lapis. I must confess, I approached this visit with a tinge of apprehension, well-aware of the recent political upheavals and local strife that had cast a shadow over the marshland. Regrettably, my expedition was cut short due to unforeseen encounters with the local fauna.
For security purposes, I was graciously accommodated within the secure confines of the Mirefort Palace as part of the Starrian envoy, prioritizing safety over the ongoing tensions within the nest (and also between our nests). Despite earnest attempts to ensure our comfort, it was evident that the Mirefort Palace had weathered multiple instances of damage over time. Recent efforts by the elders to reconstruct several key chambers were underway, though we did not stay to see the completion of these projects. Queen Pyril, opting to hold court in the Golden Orchid Courtyard instead of the damaged main hall, was sighted multiple times by our team. She exuded power and fostered an air of authority befitting her role as a strong leader, though I had heard rumours of her fierce temper. Indeed, her creative use of a wrack newt would instil fear in anyone.
Typically traversing Dravisdor in research teams, this marked the first occasion where we were assigned a private tour guide—a notable shift in our usual mode of exploration. Leaving the confines of the Mirefort Palace, I was struck by the immediate shift in conditions. The lower we descended in the nest, the more dire the circumstances of those residing in the Marsh. Several times the envoy had to resort to physical intimidation to stave off groups of vagrants. Alas, intimidation could not rid us of the pungent odours that lingered in the air, an unwelcome companion throughout our journey.
Throughout my stay, I was cautioned about attacks from loyalist insurrectionists such as the Fielfen, and especially the sole 'White Mask'. However, even without the spectre of potential assailants, the most formidable danger concealed within the marshes was not the wildlife but rather the elders themselves—a sentiment echoed by locals.
Notes to Self:
- The tar oils that Marshers sell to unsuspecting tourists DO NOT prevent giant mosquitos, and in fact have the unfortunate side-effect of localized hair loss.
- Culture within the Marsh Nest appeared centred around tight-knit, small families with a strong emphasis on shared resources. Their adaptability, resilience, and readiness to navigate any circumstances struck me as both commendable and necessary traits in their challenging environment. Quick-wittedness and physical agility seemed to be valued attributes among the residents.
- Regarding religious practices, intriguingly, the Marsh Nest inhabitants displayed little adherence to common belief systems such as those revolving around the hearth or the sky. Instead, their spiritual beliefs seemed rooted in a system of superstitions, unconventional forms of magick, and rituals involving sacrifices, all influenced by an intricate set of laws governing the realm of spirits.