Al Qadim

Dear Bashar:

Now I understand why I was the only survivor of the old party; was I supposed to die or something? Was sending me with these whining, petty, complaining children my punishment? Sometimes I wonder why they were sent out. They have been very brave, I've seen this, but sometimes greed and cowardice seem to take precedence.
Also, it seems some of them have some very weird interpretations of the caliph's laws. What is my purpose for being sent here? Am I supposed to put them on the right path? I know of their lost honor. I can see how it happened.
Right now the one problem seems to be the bard Kristen. His behavior is increasingly erratic. I even find myself getting into arguments with this boy. He has a problem facing difficult situations and is somewhat cowardly. Now, maybe I'm being rough on the child; I may have lost a few levels, but not my fearless streak.
We have a couple of others with us right now; not jannisaries but I think they might make good applicants when they are a little older. They are brave and honorable ... something which Kristen lacks. Also, he does not obey the Laws of the Loregiver. He claims his superior wisdom prevents him from doing so. Basically, Bashar, the gnome is a coward and a troublemaker. He needs retraining. I think a week of cleaning the royal cisterms might help him.
So, Bashar, what should I do? I'm afraid this boy is on his way to getting this party into some grave danger.
Give my father my best, and hopefully I will see him soon.

Serena Delacourt ab al Jasir