What a shot! The bird tumbled downwards, flailing and chirping. Its claws were wrapped tightly around this scrap... a note! Really had to pry 'em open. Can you believe it?

Dear Brother: Calm your heart — I'm safe and sound. Archers could never match my speed and Border Patrol was filled with gaps in their guard. I made it out of Howling Pike and reached the Revelwood before the troops ever had a chance to mobilize. Lord Vorgoth has gone mad, Talion. His mind has fallen to the Shroud! He lied to us. King Gormander is no threat! I can't fight for this, and my scars are proof of that. I wear them with pride, knowing I did the right thing. Please come. Wave the war goodbye. Turn your back on all this. I miss you, shortstack. — Athalan

The battle by the bridge — I know you must've been there! The ones that fled had terror in their eyes. "The Shroud," they said with a trembling voice. "The Shroud blanketed everything." Still, the armies of Vorgoth continued to battle. Please tell me: did you breathe it in? Are you still in there, my little brother? Leading the flock as Commander? I survey the valley when the sun is highest in the sky, but I detect no motion. I put my ear to the ground but hear no marching of heavy boots. If you're in there, please give me a sign, Talion. I'll carry you out on my back, just like the old days. — Your sister, Athalan

Guard of the north — Lord Vorgoth, you blighted, demented adversary. You are a mad, raving shadow of a leader! I want you to know following your orders makes me sick; a toll I paid in blood. No army will protect you. I will cross every chasm, scale every mountain, and brace against the bitter cold. I will push myself beyond the physical capacity of man to find you. And when I do, my aim will be true. I swear on my brother's honor. — Athalan Skree

Beneath this ancient bridge lay a bow, littered amongst the corpses of this battlefield. It must have belonged to an unfortunate commander consumed by the Shroud.