Tomb of Annihilation: 18

My Beloved Skye,

With each step taken on this uncharted land, my thoughts continuously drift back to you. Today, as always, I find solace in sharing my journey’s events with you, even if it’s through ink and parchment.

Our adventure is unfolding in unexpected ways here in Chult. We continued our journey aboard the *Brazen Pegasus*, venturing westward. The ocean’s expanse and the distant horizon would have left you spellbound. I wish you could have seen Angle use his gleaming body to beckon potential threats, and then, in a turn of whim, indulge in the art of animal conversation. It’s moments like these that I wish we could share a laugh together.

The terrains of Mistcliff Mountains were treacherous, testing our resilience with every step. I’ve taken up the role of the navigator, using the cartographer’s kit I got from Fort Beluarian. The lush green jungles have been replaced with rocky terrains that make Seki’s task of gathering food difficult. Yet, it was the unforeseen danger, the sudden attack from a mountain troll, that left us on edge. Orladhall’s retreat was puzzling, but we soon discovered his burden – a parasitic symbiote. Watching it be removed, seeing Orladhall’s anguish and relief combined, was a harrowing sight. His backstory was heart-wrenching, but it also reminded me of the importance of companionship and trust.

Orolunga was a marvel – an imposing stone ziggurat rising dramatically from the earth. But it was not without its challenges. Thorns that regenerate, broken steps that slide beneath one’s feet, and swarms of snakes guarding the path. And in these challenges, the chwingas emerged as our saviors. These tiny elemental beings, each donning a different mask, offered solutions that often required us to set aside our apprehensions. Skye, the thought of swallowing a snake will forever remain one of the most bizarre experiences of my life!

At the pinnacle, in the fragrant incense-filled temple, we met the guardian naga, Saja N’Baza. Her humanlike visage, wisdom, and the aura of the place was reminiscent of a dream. The meeting felt both prophetic and grounding. Two other adventurers were there as well – their stories yet to be entwined with ours.

Though our journey is fraught with dangers, discoveries, and moments of awe, the absence of your voice, your insights, and your shared excitement casts a shadow on my heart. With each letter, I hope to bridge the void that separates us, holding onto the belief that our souls remain intertwined.

Stay with me in spirit, my love.

Forever Yours,
Mugen