February 14, 1370

February 14, 1370. The wind has shifted again to the southeast, bringing with it sleet. Not a pleasant day for travel, but Valdar insists. The Coast Road goes almost dead north all morning, then curves northeastward and inland in the early afternoon. The road descends into a shallow, marshy valley. By 1:00pm you are at the centre of the valley, where a river flows sluggishly down to the sea. A stout stone bridge spans it. However, there is also a tattered signpost here, as well:

E: To Castle Koozle.

Castle Koozle! You remember it well, do you not? You adventured in it before tackling the Tomb of Melnar, and profited handsomely. That was where Stiff found his current Book of infinite spells. Hmmm...did we ever explore that dungeon completely...? wonders Orlon.

"Besides," says Valdar, apparently reading Orlon's so-called mind, "In the ensuing years I am sure that evil monsters have moved back in. If you wish, we have time to check it out..."

Their decision made, the party of doughty adventurers turns off of the Elven Coast Road and leads their mounts into the swampy forest. The going is much slower now that you are afoot and off of the main road. The half frozen ground is soggy and wet, and you are soon wet and miserable. The sleet continues until midafternoon, and then tapers off.

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