Journal Entry of Jerod the Innkeeper- May 30, 1499
Today has been quite eventful here at the tavern. The usual crowd of locals and travelers gathered around, exchanging tales and rumors from near and far. One particular rumor caught my attention and sent shivers down my spine. Word has spread of a zombie horde lurking in the depths of the nearby wilderness. The very thought of it sends a chill down my spine, for such tales are not to be taken lightly.
The story has been whispered among the patrons, passing from one traveler to another like wildfire. According to these accounts, the undead menace has been sighted in the darkest corners of the forest, far away from civilization’s safety. These poor souls claim to have witnessed hordes of mindless, rotting corpses, shuffling through the undergrowth with an insatiable hunger for living flesh.
It’s hard to discern the truth from mere hearsay, but the tales are eerily consistent. Those who have supposedly encountered this dreaded horde describe a chilling aura of death that surrounds them. The stench of decay fills the air, and their eyes glow with an unholy light that instills fear in the hearts of anyone unfortunate enough to meet their gaze.
The rumors speak of farmers who have lost their livestock to these abominations, their once prosperous lands now tainted by the foul presence of the undead. Some have even claimed to have seen entire villages overrun, their inhabitants joining the ranks of the walking dead.
I cannot help but worry about the safety of our beloved Waterdeep. Should these rumors prove true, it could spell disaster for our humble community. Our walls, while sturdy, cannot keep out such an encroaching darkness if it were to make its way here.
I shall keep a close watch on these rumors, my friend, and strive to gather more information. The safety of our patrons and the people of Waterdeep must be ensured. Perhaps the city guard should be informed of these troubling tidings, though I fear they may dismiss it as mere fantasy.
For now, I must remain vigilant and encourage caution among those who venture beyond our city walls. It is a grim reminder that even within the relative safety of civilization, darkness can still lurk in the shadows, ready to strike when we least expect it.
May the gods protect us all in these uncertain times.
Jerod