[Five torn pages are placed at the back of the book for safe keeping]
I am sure Agacyra will be proud of me now that I've purchased a journal of my own.
I had a small struck of fortune of being in the right place at the right time it would seem where I stood in the Prancing Pony this evening.
While I was enjoying a drink and observing the room I noticed a man who came in and approached a figure sat by the wall. He didn't seem to say anything and just stood there a good while. Part of me was starting to think he would strike the woman and so I kept a close eye.
Eventually he dropped something and then rushed off. Already it didn't feel right and the woman seemed confused herself at the whole thing.
When she approached the bar I noticed the trinket she carried and my suspicion grew once I caught the glimpse of blood staining the wooden doe carving that was attached to a golden chain.
Mister Butterbur was kind enough to wipe the blood away at the woman's request and I'm certain he shall be burning that rag after and for good reason.
The whole thing didn't settle well with me and so I took to talking to this woman. She didn't seem any closer to understanding what was going on. I learned her name was Cesistya and she was well spoken and kind, too kind even.
I had suspicion that the trinket was cursed or something ill following it for why else would it be given with blood? I was not going to risk it either way.
I told her that I wanted to barter for the trinket she had brought, told her that I had a niece who would enjoy it for her big day. Even if I regret telling such a lie I feel it was needed and can only hope that she'll forgive me for it.
She did not ask for coin or anything else even when the trinket she had was of such value, said that the child's joy would be enough payment.
Too kind for her own good, that is what I told her.
It did not take much for the trinket to be handed over and put it away into my pocket. Already I could feel it being drawn to this person and it only stirred my suspicion further, something was not right with this item.
I've seen cursed items in my day and anything that calls to a person as this cannot be good.
After a small talk I decided to make my way and find a blacksmith and with promise he'd get part of the gold I had the chain melted and the wood carving burned. I felt relief as this urge to return it faded away. I do not know where this man got the item but it is gone now and I will not have to worry about Cesistya, bless her kind soul.
I asked the blacksmith to cut the gold small so that I may use it. I can now bring more supplies to the Angle and even managed to buy this blank journal to start my writing again.
The blacksmith took his part and I was given the rest. I've added to my supplies and even bought a few curious toys for the children. The rest of the gold shall go to my kinsmen back home to keep for the next time supplies are needed from the towns.
Now as I sit here in the Mess Hall I find myself looking over to the chair next to me where I had first spoken to Belodin after beckoning him out of the tavern. It brings a smile but some sadness too as I find myself missing him dearly. I had gotten very used to his company and now I travel alone again.
I hope that he is well and the work he was called for is without trouble. I continue to hope that I will see him again soon but for now I must focus on my own journey and prepare to set off towards the Angle in haste.
If luck is with me Thorontir and the others will be there. Perhaps I'll drag Amathal with me since I have found him here in Bree-land. Might be good for us both to return to our home.
