Part Two
Excerpt from the journal of Kadol Zassavot, Mechanic
1st Slate, 1051
The second month of Spring arrives, and with it, good news: the Great Mules (as Urist has called them) appear to be retreating to the northwest, beyond our immediate concern.
3rd Slate, 1051
Some of the dwarves complain of boredom. I have allowed them to practice combat skills while workshops are dug out. Astesh has agreed to build some cages for the animals. She ought to begin once all the beds and bins are finished.
4th Slate, 1051
The stray cat has adopted Ilral as its owner. Her nightly watch ought to be less lonely now.
7th Slate, 1051
Nobody has touched Erith’s mule meat. At first I thought it was just because they prefer turtle, so I went to try some. I changed my mind when I saw Urist’s glare.
12th Slate, 1051
Nothing is happening. Astesh carves. Urist digs. I tinker, and watch.
14th Slate, 1051
The Great Mules are back.
23rd Slate, 1051
Nothing is happening. Astesh carves. Urist digs. The Great Mules watch.
26th Slate, 1051
We are out of wood. Astesh takes up the axe before I can say anything and charges, with a bloodcurdling yell, into the forest. I check in on her work, and find she hasn’t even started the cages. I will have words.
28th Slate, 1051
We took apart the wagon. We no longer need the wagon. We are home.