The others have finally returned, but without the Archer. The Infiltrator and Empty Hand have left, and another leg of our journey has begun.
Last night, I received another dream-message from our master. This time we were all together, and I learned that the Archer had died in the desert. Now we are only six, but I keep my master's words in mind. Even if I am the only one left, I will still do all I can to defeat the Enemy.
The others have changed during their desert wanderings and their fight against the vampire that we released. The Healer looks extremely unhealthy, though he still carries himself without difficulty. He is almost skeletal in appearance, and he wears little and carries nothing. He has taken on one of the World of Man's religions, and preaches its teachings continuously. He also exudes some sort of calming aura which makes me very uncomfortable. Though perhaps I overreact. Such an ability may allow him to control others, and gain allies to our cause.
The Brute has also taken on a religion. He talks a great deal about terror and vengeance and smiting, and this seems to complement his personality rather than contradict it. Much like the Infiltrator, he has strayed from his life-path and become a healer. I suppose he did this in case the Healer died. I feel I should have done the same, training in the ways of the Tracker so I could fill both his role and my own.
The Swordsman has changed least in personality, but he has learned some sort of mind-magic which gives him many strange abilities, and forces him to hover an inch above the ground at all times.
Our master told us very little. He was more interested in knowing what we had been doing, trusting that we would find the right path ourselves. He said that the Empty Hand and the Infiltrator were required on a mission involving infiltration, and that they would be leaving us for a time. I am to travel with the others – or, more accurately, they are to travel with me, for we will hold to our promise to rescue the slaves.
The others have learned very little about the World of Man. The Brute was foolish enough to introduce us by our real name, and mention that we were on a quest to slay a dragon. Fortunately, the people he spoke to thought he was mad. I hope I have properly conveyed to them the necessity for secrecy.