Captain’s Log – Entry 9 We spent the next few days recovering from our ordeal, learning more about this strange new world from Agu, one of its protectors, a Dibia. He told us we had been attacked by the guardian of the sacred tree of the forest, a being far older than he was. Agu also spoke of the divisions, tribes, and customs of this land. Strange, yet captivating The spirit of exploration calls to us once more. We obey, following the map. With fresh supplies and horses, we prepare to head out. Before we leave, Agu gifts me his sigil, a symbol of his authority. He says it will make the journey ahead easier. We thank him for his kindness and depart. We ride north until we reach the border of the Aro Empire and are greeted by a sight words cannot capture. The people here do not ride horses, instead, they command giant birds as steeds. The guards atop their hawks look down at us with cold dismissal. One notices the sigil around my neck and waves us through. We are instructed to follow the path marked for pilgrims. As we move forward, I cannot help but stare at the sky, where flocks of great birds soar overhead. They are indeed the sons of the sky.