The Battle of the Red Pass I
We passed through the red swamp, East of Ost Guruth. The ground was stained blood-red, with pools of dark crimson. I do not know if this was stained swamp-water, or indeed blood. I think I am okay with not knowing...
We arrived at the encampment, as did many others. It seems Radagast and the Eglain have been busy. There were at least fifty others, soldiers, scholars, healers and even those who just wish to help. More have been arriving every day. We set up a tent in the encampment, and prepared our arms and armour. Eventually Radagast arrived, with yet more men and women, ready to join the battle. Among them was Tanner, looking both terrified and eager. He came to us, and after seeing his fear, we requested he stay with us if he is to fight. He agreed, and seemed to look less anxious.
We found ourselves talking to a scholar who had deep knowledge of the lore of these lands. He spoke of the battle of old, the one in which the maiden was first corrupt. He mentioned the soldiers who had sworn an oath to protect her, but ultimately failed. They were cursed by one known as Iarwen Ben-adar. He cursed them for their folly, and now they are bound to the swamp, taking the form of ghastly wraiths, doomed to wander eternally.
Radagast came over to us, clearly having heard our conversation.
"Indeed...and it is these shades from whom we will be seeking aid in the coming battle"
Shocked, Kirseth and I went to speak but, as if sensing our doubt, Radagast smiled, gently.
"They were good men, once. They loved the maiden, and I believe they will fight to see her returned to her former glory...and finally be free of Iarwen Ben-adar's curse"
He then proceeded to divulge more of his plan - to cleanse the rivers of its corruption. He showed a vial of pure water which he said should heal the very nature of the river. But to do this, we must defeat Ivar and make our way to the Red Maid's Spring - where the water would need to be placed...but it is also where we would find the Red Maid - Naruhel.
Radagast was certain that we would need her help in order to cleanse the rivers for good; which would be no easy task since she is now under the power of Ivar the Gaunt Lord - servant of Angmar.
