West of Caer Oorun
Elikadura Fjords Region
Approximately 174 miles from Arkaster

392 AC, October 23rd

The Cebir. For decades, the fortress has been a key point of contention for the Bravos. Now, the citadel is the center of tensions between them and the Yzmir. Admiral Singh's directive was to reclaim it to plan the exploration of the western coastal region, beyond the Turbulent Shores. However, following a notable intervention by Wanjiru, the Yzmir Faction ended up locking down the site, citing a so-called quarantine to seize control of operations. Evading the vigilance of the Initiates will be challenging, but I’ve planned to send spies to the Cebir to uncover what they’re hiding there. If this initiative fails, perhaps a royal decree could grant us a foothold in the citadel. We cannot afford to move blindly, even if the Yzmir’s intentions are justified.

North-East of Caer Oorun
Strand Region
Approximately 186 miles from Arkaster

392 AC, November 3rd

Based on the information I managed to gather at the Sanctum before my departure, there was once a human enclave beyond the Strand, north of the marshlands. Scattered references detailed the existence of a hot spring station called Calida, which was once a popular retreat for the fledgling Asgarthan population. The unexpected discovery of a hot spring, where the water temperature hovers around forty degrees Celsius, might allow us to uncover the remnants of this ancient city. Of course, the Tumult may have buried or erased all traces of human presence in the region, but I’ve instructed a small contingent to establish themselves here to investigate this theory. In total, around forty explorers will make a stop here, led by scholars from the Historians’ Guild as well as prospectors from the Axiom. Their goal is to unearth the potential ruins of Calida and set up an advanced base for exploring the coastal regions of the Cierna. Leocardius Sree and I had lengthy discussions about daily life in these baths. Was it a daily ritual, or were they reserved for liturgical occasions? I must admit, however, that wading in these waters was incredibly pleasant—especially after long days trudging through the underbrush. I think you might enjoy it too, my dear friend.

North-West of Caer Oorun
Irundu Region
Approximately 150 miles from Arkaster

392 AC, November 18th

I am currently standing in the middle of a paved courtyard surrounded by pointed arch colonnades made of red and white bricks. Although vegetation has likely overtaken the area for centuries, one can still get a sense of what this structure must have looked like before its domes and slender towers collapsed. All around us, in this forest reminiscent of the Katkera, fragments of bricks and tiles of the same reddish ochre can be found among the roots—likely a mineral unique to the region. It is clear that this place once housed a significant city, possibly comparable in size and influence to the one that once stood where Arkaster now lies. The same architecture, the same spire-like towers pointing skyward... It is therefore likely that this abandoned city was connected to Arkaster, part of the same civilization. There are potentially decades of excavations to be undertaken here. However, despite my insistence, the efforts of the Ordis dignitaries are more focused on securing the wreckage of the Mesektet than on academic research. Yes, I understand that my personal interests must be tempered. Recovering the Night Barque is, of course, an absolute priority. But I must admit, I am eager to allocate funds and resources to archaeological excavations at this site.

North-West of Caer Oorun
Irundu Region
Approximately 150 miles from Arkaster

392 AC, December 11th

A group of scouts has finally managed to reach the valley where the Mesektet crashed. I’ve decided to make the journey myself, along with other Ordis dignitaries, following the great river that winds through the forest to join those from the Axiom who have already completed the trek. From what I’ve heard, the Aerolithe core of the Barque has been severely damaged. It’s unlikely the vessel will be operational in the coming weeks, but I want to confirm this personally. On a side note, the Admiral insisted that we be accompanied by a small contingent to ensure our safety. While I dislike being chaperoned in this way, she’s probably right—and I must admit that your young protégé has been doing an admirable job so far. I’m not sure when you’ll receive my next message. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to get these dispatches to you through the Talaria. I’m taking every precaution to ensure my letters aren’t intercepted, relying on Mack and even Eskheret as intermediaries, but I don’t know how long these subterfuges will hold.

North-West of Caer Oorun
Tilted Steppes Region
Approximately 217 miles from Arkaster

393 AC, January 8th

I did what I could in Irundu to expedite the recovery of the Mesektet. However, staying any longer would have been a waste of time. I’ve since decided to settle in the ruins of another pre-Confluence human metropolis, located in the region known as the Tilted Steppes. I admit, without shame, that the site’s archaeological appeal was the primary draw. According to Sree, the city was once called Marsa, though it may have gone by other names over its history. For now, I must say it’s not as compelling as the remains found in Irundu, but the ruins of one building have caught my attention, despite the scars the Tumult has left on its façade. It could be a theater, judging by the traces and clues we’ve uncovered.

That said, this research is merely a brief interlude. All Exalts have been summoned here to plan the exploration of the next territories. I suppose the “recess” is over. According to the latest rumors, the Ouroboros high command has set our next destination: a major geographical landmark—a luminescent mountain to the west of our current position. Between us and this next waypoint lies the heart of the true Tumult. We are finally set to leave the borders of the Known World, for better or worse. The Initiates monitoring the Tumult’s currents say a calm period is expected in the coming weeks. We’ll need to move quickly if we don’t want to miss the window.

Before that, though, it seems we may have a chance to meet one last time. I’ve been informed of your upcoming visit, which I take as a sign that all the arrangements for your “tumultuous” succession are now complete. In any case, I’ve heard updates from my liaison agents. My protégé appears to be garnering a substantial share of support. I trust he won’t disappoint you. I’ve trained him as best as I could, and his loyalty to you is unwavering. I’m looking forward to seeing you again, my old friend. I’ll make sure I’m aboard the Ouroboros when you arrive.

P.S. – Mack sends his regards. He’s asking you to bring back marshmallows from the Sykurgötu.

North-West of Caer Oorun
Jayu Region
Approximately 100 miles from Arkaster

393 AC, January 14th

Disturbing reports have reached me through my network of informants regarding the exploratory forces stationed in the Jayu Desert. Our troops on the ground are reporting strange phenomena, possibly linked to the presence of a Tumult Singularity in the area. Investigations are ongoing, but there are accounts of rings of light appearing in the night sky and beams of light that turn everything they touch into red salt. The Council of Factions is hesitating on the nature of the forces to deploy there. I don’t envy Temera in this matter. She’s going to have to strike a delicate balance. While she’s facing numerous requests, she’ll need to make a decision sooner or later. She mentioned merit as a factor, but I’m unsure how she plans to implement that. Perhaps you already have some insight into what she intends to do. This note is hastily written. I hope it reaches you before your departure.