The Abbey Records

Copied & Compiled by Spruce during the Autumn following the Summer of Homecoming, the Twenty-Seventh Season since Father Benar's appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country.

Brother Harper Sutton, Abbey Recorder

In the seasons when the Plague rushed through Redwall Abbey just before the appointment of Abbot Lorimis, the Abbey Recorder at the time was a hare named Brother Harper Sutton. He had been born in Salamandastron and later presumably passed into the Dark Forest some time during Lorimis' early reign as Abbot, survived by a son Tameus Sutton who went on to serve in the Long Patrol.

Only four entries from his time as Abbey Recorder survive, supplemented by the three entries made by 'Garth the Scholar'; whether or not more was written during this time is currently uncertain.

Garth the Scholar's Entries, Temporary Recorder

As Brother Harper Sutton had fallen ill, a creature known as 'Garth the Scholar' was asked to act as temporary recorder in Sutton's absence by an order member called Sister Caina. Three entries only were written, with little to no evidence Garth continued or even survived the sickness.

The Recordings of one Garth the Scholar Day One: Early January, Winter of the Plague

My arrival at the abbey was not as I had hoped. I entered the Great hall in good spirits, but soon learned that some kind of plague has stricken many of the residents. I was immediately warned by a young mouse to flee and wait until the plague ran its course, but this is something that needs recording, and I am apparently the only beast capable of doing it. I learned this from one Sister Caina, who informed me that the old recorder is in the infirmary, and asked me to leave a copy of my records for the abbey. So far I have learned that defiantly 19 beasts have died. The Order has quarantined the upper floors; no one is allowed to leave once they go up there. I also heard that a Long Patrol Major is preparing some sort of expedition to find a cure. I wish I could go along for that journey, but my place is here. I am hoping to speak with the abbot, learn more about this plague, but that’s if he hasn’t been stuck down with the others.

The Recordings of one Garth the Scholar Day Two: Early January, Winter of the Plague

A search party left the abbey today, in search of some herb called the Goldenwart which the healers say will cure this. I was sorely tempted to go along. Nothing in the way of news has come down from the infirmary.

The Recordings of one Garth the Scholar Day Three: Early January, Winter of the Plague

Beasts down in the Great Hall have been falling ill. Late last night the entire abbey was declared under quarantine, no one is allowed outside the walls. I have no idea what the current death toll is, for every time I ask the healers go all silent and staring. The sick are still kept up in the infirmary, and most of the healthy have gathered in the Cavern Hole and Lower Dormitories.

On my previous statement about the sick, that was merely an in general statement. A stoat, clearly infected, just appeared in the hall and sat near me. Do these abbey beasts have no sense left in them? The sick should be kept upstairs! Not allowed to wander freely around the still healthy! It is clear the Order has no idea how to contain an outbreak. The upstairs should have been completely cut off, the stairs should have been barricaded and fires lit to cleanse the air. And now this, allowing the sick to wander freely, I can only hope these barbarians can gather themselves and contain this before it consumes us all. For now I keep close to the fire, but if this stoat, who introduced himself as Kolya, is anything to go by I will soon be pitching a tent outside these halls.

The only praise I can offer the abbey beasts lies with the healers. They seem to be working around the clock, risking their own well being to tend the needs of others. Two of these healers, a hare and a mouse, seem to doubt my advice of lighting fires to clean the air, they also seemed to find me as unpleasant company; but did no better themselves.

I also meet Colonel Zoe Lang this evening. She seems the intelligent type, but kept trying to tell me to control my supposed temper. I calmly told her that if these abbey types would simply stop being so full of confidence in themselves, and listened; I wouldn’t be vexed with them.

Brother Harper's First Surviving Entry: Mid January, Winter of the Plague

Brother Harper recovered from his illness far more swiftly than many others at the Abbey, and began his work as Recorder once more:

Well, it would seem I have won the battle against the Plague. Though I doubt that has overmuch to do with myself. I should better say that the other healers have the victory in this particular battle. Or that my son has. Whichever is the case, I am improving. The fever has broken. The vessel for this humble mind feels battered and broken, but it also feels-- alive.

It only seems right that I should return to my duties now I have the strength to do so. While my mind was lost to the fog, the Abbey lost many more of its good creatures to the illness. However, the Abbey and its inhabitants will not go quietly, nor have they ever. A certain Brenden Thatcher, Private rank, of the Long Patrol, has presented the possibility of a cure. A certain herb, known as Goldenwort in his area of the world. It grows deep in the forest, in Southswards. He knows not whether it grows in Winter, but a quest has been rallied nonetheless. The questers left two days hence. I am told that we are not to expect them for a fortnight, though perhaps the spirits of those we've lost will bear them home more quickly, even, than that.

Because a cure, it is true, we are in dire need of. Even the humble Abbeybeasts can only be bent so low before breaking and I should wish myself dead before that day.

But perhaps that day has been put off a little, all the same, for the love of a dibbun. I think only a dibbun could think to make merry and light as a distraction for all this. Aged beasts are far too cynical! Ah well, but my son Tameus is not! He put on a play - a comedy! Starring himself as perilous hare, Long Patrol Colonel Wameus! His delicate damsel, Delilah, was played by our very own, Novice Bradge. He makes a very pretty maid, if I do say so myself. And as for the more villainous component, Colonel Zoe Francis and Sivaine Brennig played the roles of Dread Pirate Kessy and Nerdez, respectively. It was quite a thing... I nearly fainted dead away from laughing, though that's not a stretch for me right now!

I think we all owe Tameus a great amount of thanks. He has brought us all from the edge, not with herbs or simples, but with something far more effective.

Laughter.

- Brother Harper Sutton, Abbey Recorder

Brother Harper's Second Surviving Entry: Late January, Winter of the Plague

The last of the plague sufferers have been released from the infirmary! Thank the Spirits, it is over. The timing is appropriate - we feasted the Abbey's good fortune last night in the Great Hall. There was dancing and music from the Abbey's musicians. There were two stand-outs of the evening.

One, Ardice's celebratory cake! Oh, Martin! It was a sight. She had decorated it to resemble Goldenwort, the herb to which we owe our recovery. But I think there are very few but can feel anything but ambivalence for the stuff. Foul-tasting and poisonous in certain forms. Major Darklett, the poor soul, looked absolutely green upon seeing the raspberry syrup seeping out of the vines in place of sap. All the same, the cake was absolutely delicious.

And, of course, it is no surprise that my Tameus got up to his usual tricks! Without telling anyone, he and a few other dibbuns arranged for quite the spectacle. He sang a rather moving song and I'm surprised to say he sang it well. It is an old one. Let me see if I can transcribe it here...

"See the smoke curl from the chimney,

An the mat beside the door,

On the path there stands the family,

Like you left em long before.

Home returning, home returning,

Seasons gone an young uns grown,

Home returning, home returning,

Back to those I call my own!

There the fire burns and the ale brews,

An the bread bakes soft an brown,

While my friends wait with the good news,

Bring my chair an sit me down.

Home returning, home returning,

Comes the warrior from the war,

Home returning, home returning,

Home to wander nevermore!"

And right after that he and the other dibbuns had rigged a sort of catapult and they launched dozens of golden paper flowers over Great Hall. I think everyone enjoyed it, save for Major Darklett's son Caleb. He seemed to have a vendetta against them and went about crushing each one he could find.

It was a fine evening for the Abbey.

Scrawled at the bottom is a scribbled note, which reads, And the squirrel Magramba arrived with ribbons braided into his headfur. I really will have to speak to Novice Theodore about that.

Brother Harper's Third Surviving Entry: Early February, Winter of the Plague

The Abbey is suddenly a great deal emptier.

The Long Patrol has left. I believe the original plan was to wait 'til things warmed up a bit, but I suppose with first the owl, and then the battle on the Dirt Road, and finally the plague, they thought it best to leave while they still could!

It has been an unlucky stretch of months for us, no doubt.

Ah, well.

My Tameus has gone off with them. To get an early start on his grand plan to become Colonel! I am glad that he has found what he wants in life so young, but not having him here, not seeing his smile or hearing his laughter, it is a deep wound. Fortunately I have my work to keep me busy, but I can't but come back to the cot we shared each night and wonder who will sing him his lullabies, now?

The little scamp left a note. Ardice helped him to write it.

"It'll be a long time. I'll hate it and I'll miss you.

I'm sorry I'm not a good son. I'll work hard and think

of you all the time and one day I will be. I'll make you

proud. I promise. I love you more than anything.

Please be happy. Tam."

Ahhh, but he is and he does already! Where are you now, my son? I hope he is well.

- Brother Harper Sutton

Brother Harper's Final Surviving Entry: Early April, Spring following the Plague

Well, we have been back to the Abbey for some number of weeks, now. The aches and pains have all healed and I no longer wake up every morning convinced that Redwall is a dream and Ruingate only a wakings away...

Should all things always be recorded, to be passed down and remembered, or should some events just be allowed to pass away with one or two beast's memories? That's the question I've been contemplating these past weeks, with a stack of fresh parchment sitting at my desk and waiting to be written on. I suppose I still haven't made up my mind - or maybe I have, and I'm just not ready yet. There have been enough of sleepless nights thanks to this trip, just lately.

So I will write of simpler things. I'm sad to have missed the visit with my family. It has been seasons since I've seen my mother, or my brother Jacob. It's been long enough, he's grown from a leveret to nearly a full Private in my absence. I wonder what he must think of me, cloistered away here in the Abbey. Though, I suppose one couldn't fairly call my life here boring!

I miss Tameus, as well. I am awaiting a letter from him - something, anything really. I don't like to consider how he must have taken the news that we would not be arriving at the mountain. He is a very strong leveret, but in some ways he is very fragile and uncertain in life. I worry for him. No doubt life will toughen it out of him, but if it was my choice... I wouldn't have it so. There are some lessons I'd rather he not have to learn.

Ah well. My letter to them must have arrived a number of days ago. Hopefully he is not angry with me, and will write soon.

Meanwhile, Spring is blossoming everywhere. The seeds of life have been planted and the smallest of buds push through the freshly turned earth, seeking out the light of day. I believe I will take a lesson from the plants, and venture forth to greet the morning.

- Brother Harper, Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia, Abbey Recorder

After a span of roughly Twenty-Five seasons since Brother Harper acted as Abbey Recorder, a badgermaid named Sister Zinnia Winters began writing, which would eventually lead her to being appointed to the position of official Abbey Recorder in July - August of the Summer of Remembrance, the eighteenth season since the late Father Lorimis' appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country. Sister Zinnia would hold the post for nearly eight seasons until her resignation as Recorder in May of the Spring of New Beginnings, the fifth season since Father Benar's appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, after which she left both the Abbey and the Order.

She returned some three seasons later before passing into the Dark Forest in March of the Winter of Reflection, the eighth season since Father Benar's appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country. She was survived by a son, the late Xander Winters.

Sister Zinnia's First Writings, Spring of Bells to Summer of Remembrance

During the Spring of Bells, the seventeenth season after Abbot Lorimis' appointment to the position of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, a beast named Marek gathered about himself a great horde of vermin, leading to what I shall henceforth call the Second Marek War the following Summer (the Summer of Remembrance). Throughout these events is when Sister Zinnia first began writing, chronicling nearly every event that took place in the Second Marek War in her personal journal, which has now been added to the Abbey Record here.

Sister Zinnia's First Journal Entry

I am starting these writings to record what has happen since we been away from Redwall Abbey. It is odd to be writing as when I first came to the abbey I couldn’t read or write very well at all and now I read and write very very well and recently even found out that even though I never seen it before I understand badger script. Badger Script is strange as it can tell the past as well as the future and sometimes things going on elsewhere in the here and now that you may not even know of. Now it doesn’t say everything but it tells important things one needs to know, who knows maybe whoever wrote it hundreds of season ago knew I would read it and that me and my group needed to know something. Oh sorry I should explain who this group is and how we came to Salamandastron, yes the great badger Mt. or Fire Mt as some call it.

Sister Zinna

Sister Zinnia's Second Journal Entry

I am writing down what I remember and trust me a lot of it is not easily forgotten. Me and a guard named Anomen, he’s a squirrel, were told by Martin the Warrior himself to seek aid at Salamandastron to help recover his sword and to help aid Redwall from an attack by a horde led by an evil stoat named Marek. The sword was stolen from our Champion Flicktail by a squirrel named Oak who drugged him and another guard. Oak lost the sword to Marek who used it as a symbol of power and took over Redwall. Redwall fell that day and those still there were now captive and under the power of Marek and his horde.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Third Journal Entry

Before the horde had come I, Elder Benar, Anomen, and Friar Lacota had already gone on our mission a 3-4 week trip to Salamandastron. The trip started out fine and we even found a Gawtrybe squirrel maid who joined us and her name was Treesong. We made it to the swamps and that is where trouble happen and the toads caught us but with my help and Treesong we were able to get out. Benar got on my shoulders and Treesong on his and got us vines, we escaped the toads with our lives but sadly lost supplies and everything we had with us, and were still a couple days from the Salamandastron. On the day we arrived we almost lost Treesong to a jellyfish sting but luckily a hare healer named Barley came to her aid and him and a the recorder hare Quinten led us inside Salamandastron. After a week of recovering we talked to Lord Sebastian, he is the badger lord, and he will help us. It seems he dislikes the idea of Flicktail being champion of the abbey, as Flicktail is a fox. Yes a fox is champion of Redwall but he is a good fox whom I trust with my life now. I did not trust Flicktail at first and slowly as time went on he gained my trust and now he is a friend. Anyways Lord Sebastien is sending 1000 hares total and himself to Redwall. They will be with us on the way home. Acting as Liaison is Benar and appointed Anomen as military advisor. Lord Sebastian has mentioned he and the long Patrol will have no dealing with Flicktail while they are in Mossflower, but will respect the title champion, this is why we needed a Liaison and military advisor. Well we are to head out in 3 days and I need to get some rest.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Fourth Journal Entry

Day 3 and we have headed out. I don’t have time to write too much right now I shall write more in a few days. Wish us luck.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Fifth Journal Entry

It has been a week so far and I find hares most interesting, where do they put all the food they eat I wander. Lord Sebastian seems to like to keep to himself; he is the current Badger Lord. I also found out he is a blacksmith like my papa is, I wonder if they would get along or not. The trip so far has been good and no trouble, then who wants to mess with a thousand hares and one very tall badger lord.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Sixth Journal Entry

Today I had a bad dream or vision from Martin. My papa, Zork, or father he can also be called seems to have been in a very bad fight. I am so scared of just how bad a fight it was and how he is and I can’t learn this till we get home. Martin said my father was to join the ranks of the order as a Brother or Elder maybe. The day my father lays down his warrior ways will for sure be a sight to see indeed.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Seventh Journal Entry

We had an interested visitor today, he arrived by swan, Brother Leon. But it seems the swan also had another with it a clan squirrel and I didn’t catch his name but he knew Treesong and took her with him to be the now leader of Gawtrybe. It seems the Gawtrybe leader was hurt badly and Treesong is the leader for now, well she is granddaughter to the main leader of Gawtrybe so makes sense. Leon stayed with us to finish our journey back to Redwall and has informed us Uncle Oz is fine and so are the dibbuns now, even Martins sword is in safe paws, an otter. Leon thinks it’s our head guard Lee that has Martins sword, I hope so. Other news is my father Zork is in bad shape and I am worried about him. Leon confirmed my father’s warrior days are over. I wander... maybe my father really will be becoming a brother or elder in the order after all.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Eighth Journal Entry

I have not written in a while as been thinking on other things. Like on how my father Zork is and how everyone is at the abbey. I hope they are ok. We are almost at Ferravale now and soon will make final any plans to get the abbey back into our paws. I will be staying at the base camp the Long Patrol and Lord Sebastian has set up. I will also try not to worry on how the battle will go or who may or may not die. Deaths happen when in war and injuries happen as well. Those who can fight and heal will go into battle, I do not know much on fighting at all but a hare has been teaching me some simple self-defense and I guess it’s ok to learn self-defense just in case I ever need it in the future, but it’s still a last resort as I am a Sister in the order and the abbey code is do no harm and only fight if one’s life is in danger and as a last resort. Well Benar and Sebastian will be heading out soon to see who else is going to help us get the abbey back. Brother Leon looks to be going to and said he be there as a healing beast, he is Master Healer after all so it makes sense for him to be there. Anomen will also go to Ferrvale and be in the big battle against Marek and his horde. Anomen had taken a walk earlier and came back clearly upset and told me he wishes to not talk about it and asked where Benar and Sebastian was, and I told him and he went off to speak to them. Hopefully it’s not bad news, I so dislike bad news. Well I should stop writing for now and will update you later.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Ninth Journal Entry

We have made it to a camp close to Ferravale. I cannot say where so that will remain a secret. No vermin species can enter the camp, even if a couple are friends it seems. But that is ok as it does keep the cap safe. I went out to try and find someone who may know how my Papa is and I ended up a captive of the Gawtribe. It seems they were for a short while taken over by Alvar as he has been Treesong in a fight and is leader and he is a mean leader and says they will no longer be friends to any beast but the clan.

I write more to say Alvar was defeated, in fact killed by Anomen who came to help Treesong and myself, Anomen is now temporary leader of the Gawtribe, plus he is still military advisor for this war we are dealing with, but the Gawtribe is on our side once more so all is well. Even better news Treesong and Anomen are now to soon wed, not sure when this will be as first we must win this war with Marek and then get things back to normal. Maybe A feast and a wedding, that would be so fun and enjoyable!

Sister Zinnia

A hasty scribble in a small and cramped paw-writing has been added to the bottom of the page:

I also helped with Alvar's defeat! Nearly died trying!

- J.R.M.

Sister Zinnia's Tenth Journal Entry

A lot has happen at the base camp. Hares are training and getting ready to fight and a more serious tone has come over the camp. I will be staying at the base camp till the ok is given that the abbey is free and we can go inside. I will also help tend to some of the less serious injuries as I do know basic healing skills.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Eleventh Journal Entry

The abbey is once more free, but many lost their lives to get it free again. I stayed at the base camp and a couple hares got me back to the abbey. My papa Zork and Uncle Oz are fine, to which I am glad. Many in the Long Patrol died, half the Gawtrybe died and some shrews died as well. The head Guard Lee had found Martin The Warriors sword and keep it safe. He led a small group of Redwallers inside and rang the bells in the bell tower as a distraction. A squirrel named Oak opened the abbey gates to let beasts inside, but he disappeared and from what heard went into the woods somewhere. Also the moles caused a section of the south wall to fall down, further surprising the horde beasts that had taken over our home. The moles are already starting to repair the wall and make it even stronger. The gates are getting fixed as well; the blacksmith whom is also my Papa is helping fix the abbey gates. The wounded are being cared for by Head Healer Brother Leon and the other healers. The dibbuns have yet to be brought back but that should be in a couple days once some cleanup has taken place around the abbey. Well I should get some needed rest, in my own bed. It will feel so good to once more sleep in my bed and my own room.

Sister Zinnia

Sister Zinnia's Records, August of the Summer of Remembrance

Following the events of the Second Marek War, Sister Zinnia was officially appointed to the position of Abbey Recorder in late July or August of the Summer of Remembrance, the eighteenth season since the late Father Lorimis' appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country.

Sister Zinnia's First Entry as the Official Abbey Recorder

I am sorry I have not written in a while. I been spending time with Papa and Uncle Oz. The abbey has slowly recovered from the takeover and things are getting back to normal. Today is the feast and great fun and food was to be had. This was the first time I truly enjoyed a Redwall feast. The lives that were lost were remembered today with lanterns on the trees; yes the trees as we had the feast outside in the orchards. The summer of Remembrance it was named. Another great thing happen I am now Redwall Abbey Recorder! I still take care of the library and keep the abbeys records but now I feel more proud to do so and will work extra hard to keep the library neat and clean and in good order, I will also may sure all things are recorded that needs to be remembered. The sword of Martin is once more back in Flicktail’s paws now as well. We also have a bee keeper now, Melibella as her and her newborn daughter have decided to live here. I need to go help clean up, I will update later.

Sister Zinnia, Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Second Entry

I want to update as I found out today Bottlebrush has returned to the abbey, which is good as he is a healer and healers are always needed.

Other news is sadder, my friend Treesong has died, but there is not total loss of hope as she has a small newborn baby that has survived. It is thought the poison from the Jellyfish sting weeks ago may have still been in her system and made her weaker; childbirth took a lot of her energy. The baby’s name I learned is Cotasong, a way to honor his mother and Anomen had wanted to name the child after a close friend, Friar Lacota, so the name is a mix of both names. Friar Lactoa is fine so please do not worry and is busy making dinner or rather finishing making it so I best get to Cavern Hole as he doesn’t like it when beasts are late for dinner.

Sister Zinnia, Recorder of Redwall Abbey

Sister Zinnia's Third Entry

Sorry I have not updated for a while. First some sad news, Sister May has passed away and will be missed. She was very old, I am sure how old but fairly old and was one of the first beasts I meet when I first came here. She helped Uncle Oz with the younger dibbuns, now one of the novices do. I help with the dibbuns ages 4-6 seasons and so far I have done very well.

We will have the fall feast soon and my papa is helping to raise the new gates, and the gates are stronger than ever before. The feast should be fun and enjoyable. I am still loving being the recorder and love to keep you updated. We have had friends come and friends go. Luckily no more in death have left. Angelo the hare left to go back to his own village as a brother of his needed him, and Anomen has left with his son Cotasong. Those new , we have Taran who has come to the abbey, just yesterday he helped save one of the dibbuns I help, young Thorn, who had an allergic reaction to some nuts. Taran got her to the infirm very quickly and saved her life, even though he seems to think he didn’t, in my opinion he did. We also have an odd sea otter maid here and who seems interested in learning to use the forge, a possible apprentice for papa? I am unsure and will keep you updated on what happens there and what her name is once I also learn that. There is also a vixen named Rayen, I have only spoken to her a couple times and she seems nice. She is a healer and makes baskets out of reeds, which I think is an interesting skill to have. She seems to have made our champion happy, and I think she is happy as well when she is with him and it’s always nice to make beasts happy.

Our Master Healer Brother Leon took a couple weeks off and is now back on duty, I think some time off, which he rarely takes, helped him a lot and also Taran, whom I mentioned earlier, is his father..yes they are related and look to be trying to finally be father and son and I wish them luck with that.

Not much else is going on that I have not mentioned, till next time.

Sister Zinnia, Recorder of Redwall Abbey

Sister Zinnia's Fourth Entry

Another quick update

I am adding this, though the problems seem to have left. A group called the Silent Blades have been around. Led by a rat I learned name was Ebony and seems to dislike the abbey. So far they have not caused too much trouble here and just on the road by robbing beasts as they travel the road. The wall guards as well as our Head Guard Lee and the Champion Flicktail are keeping an eye on the roads to make sure the Silent Blades do not do too much to endanger any beasts. I have learned they are a small group of just under 10 beasts and in a couple recent fights have lost a pawful of their beasts, this before being under 10 beasts, still not being too big a group even then, maybe 15 before and dropped to just under 10 beasts now, I see no danger to the abbey but would suggest being careful on the dirt road, I know I will be.

Thanks for your time,

Sister Zinnia, Recorder of Redwall Abbey

Sister Zinnia's Records, Autumn of Portals to Winter of Thundersnow

Written from roughly October to December, Autumn of Portals, the nineteenth season since the late Father Lorimis' appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, & Winter of Thundersnow, the twentieth season since the late Father Lorimis' appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, respectively.

Sister Zinnia's Fifth Entry

I have been very busy with teaching the dibbuns ages 4-6 seasons and even have a couple 3 season olds as well in my classes now. One update is there was the Fall Feast a couple weeks ago (Oct 24th) and it went very well. Father even did the speech and named the season, Autumn Of Portals. Portals is another name for doors and openings like gats also, I rather like the seasons name. The feast went well and the new gates are up, stronger than ever before.

Another update is the sea otter; Silverstorm is now my father’s apprentice and is learning to be a blacksmith. I worry about papa as he is making a wheeled chair and uses a cane a lot more than when he walks around. I have talked to Brother Leon and he says my Papa or as most know him as Brother Zork, will most likely be in that wheelchair a lot sooner rather than later as the heart attack he had in the summer did cause a lot of damage and he nearly died twice and was in a deep faint a week, it took him half a season, maybe a little longer to recover from it and maybe he never really fully recovered from it, not all the way anyways. Papa claims he is ok and knows to take it easy, maybe that’s why he has his apprentice Silverstorm now, she can help him and one day take over the Blacksmith duties but I do hope Papa is around many many more seasons.

I add this to the records. Taran has died, not that the abbey knew him that well but I felt it important to add this, he was buried in his old village where he died and Brother Leon was away a couple weeks, along with his mate Dorarose, to visit the village he grew up in and to attend a wake for Taran. Taran was Brother Leon’s father, if I have not mentioned that before. Brother Leon is back now, as well as Dorarose, and once more back to his Master Healer duties.

An update I forgot to add...The Silent Blades group is no more, their leader Ebony died and some of the group was killed and others left the group as it broke apart and they went elsewhere to not bother this area again. Ebony died a hero; she had perhaps turned from her evil ways to save her daughter from someone in her own group that aimed to kill the child. Thorn lives at the abbey now and is doing very well in her pottery skills and learning about trees and plants and how to take care of the abbey grounds. Thorn has been adopted by Elder Benar and I think she will do very well in the abbey and maybe one day be a Sister in the order, course she has to be a novice first and that may be in a season or two as she has recently I learned turned 5 seasons and is one of the dibbuns I teach.

Well this is all for updates for now, that and my paw hurts from all this writing, till next time,

Sister Zinnia-Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Sixth Entry

Friar Lacota has glasses now. The blacksmith Zork made them for him. This is good as he had some vision problems before and now he doesn't. Other news is it looks like my papa, or Brother Zork the Blacksmith of our abbey will be not doing too much the next several days. He injured his shoulder badly in a fall; this only makes me worry more about him even if he seemed fairly fine, I am unsure his emotional side is ok. He has totally finished his wheelchair and even was sitting in it today, but he wasn’t very talkative. He didn’t talk to me at all and so I left him his breakfast and decided to check on him later. I will keep you updated as I have a class to do

Sister Zinnia-Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Seventh Entry

Dear friends,

A lot has happen and I have been busy fixing old books in the library and looking to see what could be done for a future spring cleaning, and it’s been planned to have one threw-out the abbey and I think it would be a wonderful idea!

Some other news, that’s troublesome, is we almost lost our Master Healer Brother Leon due to a poisonous spider bite he received on his paw. The spider was disposed of and the attic where it happen checked, no other spiders thank the seasons. But Brother Leon did almost die and was saved by a healer hare named Angelo. News that should be happy does have some sadness to it as to save his life Brother Leon had to lose his right paw to do so, but I believe he will still be the Master Healer we all know and love and will get through this with the help of family and friends. Other sad news is Angelo has passed on to the dark forest, we are unsure why and suspect his health was not too good in his old age. Angelo has been buries in the graveyard on our abbey grounds off the Open ground area.

Brother Leon is doing a little better, other news is a major snow storm hit Mossflower. I do hope no one was out in the snow and icy mess. Looks like this winter will indeed be a cold one that’s for sure well I am off to go sit by the fireplace it the great hall

Sister Zinnia-Redwall Abby Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Eighth Entry

Hello,

A quick update on the news of Redwall Abbey for you all. The winter season is still in its early days and we have had the blizzard and another smaller storm so far so a good deal of snow. Paths have been cleared to a couple areas of the abbey that’s of importance like the champion’s cottage and the cottage where Our Master Haler Brother Leon and his mate Dorarose live with their two dibbuns.

That reminds me Our Master Healer Brother Leon has almost fully recovered from his time after the bad spider bite. He has lost his right paw, but at least he did not lose his life. He will need to get use to only having one paw and he seems to be doing slowly and he is still our Master Healer and wil be for many, many seasons I do hope.

We have a new sea otter with us and he has decided to stay, his name is Artie and he can play a lute as well as a flute and he sings, music is always welcomed in the abbey. We also had the chieftain of Ferravale, Scioto and his friend Astra stay with us for a few days but he is now heading back to Ferravale which I guess is good as he is the chieftain of the village Ferravale after all.

Not much else to say for now and I am late for breakfast, till next time,

Sister Zinnia-Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Ninth Entry

Hello!

We had the Winter Feast not too long ago and the season was named Winter of the Thundersnow, it was a good name I think. We all had fun and look forwards to the Spring feast soon. At the Spring feast Rayen and Flicktail are to wed so that should be a great event as well and another bit of good news we have had no trouble around from anything or even vermin, its been a quiet winter and fall was some what quiet towards the end. I have still been busy with the library and maybe that's why it took me so long to write any updates.

One update is I have an uncle! His name is Zee and he is really old but seems to get around just fine. Uncle Zee some reason wants to live in Ferravale but that's fine as we do have a peace treaty with Ferravale and he seems very able to take care of any problems he may run into. I wish my Papa, Brother Zork, could get around well as he is in a wheelchair now. Sometimes I worry about my papa and have been told to try not to worry too much. Well I best get back to the library as there is still much to do and I want done before the sping feast here in about 3-4 weeks.

Sister Zinna-Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Tenth Entry

Hello, it’s been 3 weeks and a lot has happen. Yesterday was the Spring Feast and was named the Spring of New Beginnings and I would agree as Rayen and Flicktail got married and the wedding went very well. So Flicktail and Rayen are starting a new life together. Also Streamheart, Lee’s mate, may be having her dibbun born on the next day or so, a new life in the abbey. Also we have a new novice, Caleb, who is Leon’s son, is now a novice and studying to become a cook!

Some other things around the area is Marek is back, but he seems to have changed and maybe is trying to be good. Marek lives in Ferravale for now and even helped me and Scioto as well as himself when a beast tried to poison us. The beast was after Marek and Scioto more than me, guess I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. But things turned out okay and I am fine as well as Marek and Scioto.

Other news is the roads and woods seem to be free of trouble the past few weeks and that’s always a welcome sign, and life is good at Redwall.

Well Papa or as the abbey called him Brother Zork, has fully retired from being the blacksmith and has passed it on to the otter maid Silverstorm, but he will check on her every so often. Zork is also in a wheelchair almost all the time now but he still seems like his jolly self regardless. I do worry about him sometimes as he does have trouble getting in and out of the wheelchair when he is not in it, which is rarely he is not in it. When he goes a short distance or meditates or when he sleeps he is not in his wheelchair.

Well it’s late and I should get to bed…

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Records, Spring of New Beginnings to Summer of Friends and Renewal

Written from roughly April, Spring of New Beginnings, the twenty-first season since the late Father Lorimis' appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, to presumably June, Summer of Friends and Renewal, the first season after Father Benar's appointment to the position of Abbot of Redwall Abbey, Mossflower Country, following Abbot Lorimis' passing in the spring.

Sister Zinnia's Eleventh Entry, Mid April

Greetings,

It is with a sad and heavy heart I mention the death Of Abbot Lorimis. He died around the lunch hour and all the abbey is saddened over the loss of Abbot Lorimis. This just a week after the Spring Feast. Abbot Lorimis led a good full and very long life, he was old and this may have helped led to his death, also a cough he had that never cleared up. Brother Leon and Angela did all they could to help prevent his death and I know they are depressed over this as well.

I am saddened as well, a couple days before I showed Abbot Lorimis the newly redone library. This made him so happy and joyful, he loved it and even more so the glass case to better protect the charter of the abbey order. I was worried about him then as he did pass out for a few minutes but he seems ok a little later and we even had a small chat, which was nice. The abbot also got to have tea with my Uncle Oz or better known to the dibbuns as Papa Oz. Maybe the abbot knew his time was close and wanted us to remember the good times with him and these are the memories we should hold close to us dear friends. Abbot Lorimis would not want us to be sad and depressed and feel weak. He would want us to be strong and to love life and love one another and help one another through hard times. Be there for others through the good and even the bad times. Alone we are weak and can easily fall, but together we are strong and we don’t fall. Abbot Lorimis would want us to not dwell on his death, but dwell on how he lived his life.

Soon the next abbot will step up, but first there is the funeral for Abbot Lorimis. I will be taking a walk, walk help me relax and I can personally deliver the notice of Abbot Lorimis death to Ferravale. Ferravale has always been a friend to us and we have a peace treaty with them, it is important that they too know of Lorimis passing.

I close with these words love one another, be there for one another, keep loved ones close and never forget those who have passed on.

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Twelfth Entry, Late April

Well, a week has passed since Abbot Lorimis death and now we have a new abbot. Elder Benar is now Abbot Benar, a wise choice indeed. The funeral of Abbot Lorimis went well.

That is all for today.

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Thirtieth Entry, presumably June

Dear friends,

A lot has gone on in the past couple months’ time. Abbot Benar is has started whats called a processional to visit important historical locations that are important in the history of Redwall Abbey. It is a traditional journey made by the new Abbot of Redwall Abbey to mark the importance of Redwall's History. So far it has been interesting. Those left in charge of the abbey are Angela, for infirm duties mainly, also Brother Elmef, My Uncle Oz and my Papa Elder Zork..yeah he is an Elder now. But all will help one another I am sure and the trip is only a couple weeks and will end with a great Summer Feast at the edge of the quarry. I have never visited the quarry but I will make an effort to record about each place we stop as help get some history down.

First stop is St. Ninians: An old , old and now run down church. Once it was a place of goodness, a sanctuary against the wild woodlands. Its bell rang out over the land. It was a home of a peaceful family and they tended the sick, they prayed to those above and beyond and they offered a place to rest for those who had departed. They were friends of Redwall, Friends of the Badgers of Brock Hall and it was a peaceful place that stood for goodness, kindness and integrity. But in the end it fell, Cluny the Scourge befouled the sanctity of this Hall. In his season long siege of Redwall Abbey he despoiled what was good about this place. Seasons later Slagar the Cruel used it as a base for slavery and later an evil brood of ravens took shelter here and caused the death of an innocent of Redwall. And though this place is now no more, a ruin forgotten, tumbled, burnt it is not forgotten by Redwall. It is a lesson and a memory we cannot and should not forget what happened here, that good was turned to evil. It could happen even to our beloved Redwall if we are not true to ourselves, support one another and work together to keep the ideals of our Abbey alive.

Wise words I think as Abbot Benar explained the history of the church and we all sat down to tell stories to, as Abbot Benar said, “Tonight we stay here, to honor the memory of those who came before us and to remember. We all have tales to share, tonight there is no Abbot, no Brothers or Sisters we are all just friends. Gathered here to recall, to tell stories and to know one another so that we may all remember together our pasts."

We learned more of one another and I think grew closer to one another at the same time. The 2nd night we told stories of others in our life, and I spoke of my Papa, Elder Zork and a couple others shares stories as well. I bet Papa would of liked seeing the church maybe, I do not know, but I am sure I will have much to tell him and Uncle Oz when I get back…..Next stop is Brock Hall, I think it was home to a badger family once, I hope to also learn much there. Till then my friends.

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Fourteenth Entry, Early July

Dear friends,

I have once more sat down to write down of what me and others on this historical processional with Abbot Benar. The weather has been very good so far and there was only one day of some rain and it didn’t last very long at all. Many have told their stories while we were at the church and more stores were told once we arrived at Brock Hall. But more on Brock Hall later my friends first I need to recount some of the stories told at St. Ninians. I have gotten permission to include this tales.

Our own Abbot Benar Said:

“A very emotional day for me. I'd been many things in my life. I'd been a Slave, I'd seen Sampetra, an Orphan then an adopted child living with my mother in the woods. Then I had been a soldier in Southsward, the realm of the Squirrel King and then... here I was, in Redwall Abbey about to embrace a life of peace. I had never been so scared, I was going to turn my back on all I knew and embrace something new. I broke my bow, I stowed my sword where it could never be used again and I became a Novice of Redwall Abbey. If it hadn't been Sister Sunflower I would never have been able to take such a step. It was not easy to do, but I did my best to move forward and embrace my new life. In doing so I have never been happier or in a place to be able to help so many people at once."

- And now he is Abbot and I find that very wonderful, he has indeed been through a lot in his life but he never let in keep him down, he never gave up and he let friends, the most important thing in the world, help him become the beast he is today.

Next is Head Guard Lee, as he said:

“I ain't been at Redwall but a few seasons now. Before that I were 'omeless in the South. Not very pleasant life, ta be honest. I 'eard about Redwall from a passin' merchant, though, an' he had all kinds of good things ta say about it, so I decided ta come see for myself. Took me awhile ta get 'ere... Over 'alf a season. At times, I thought I'd never make it. But then I did. An' it were amazin', just like the merchant 'ad said. I came 'ere, seekin' a home, an' I was welcomed in willin'ly, an' I got that 'ome. Not long after, I got a job, too, defendin' the Abbey, an' I found a brother, an' a father." He pauses, nuzzling Konrad who's asleep in his arms. "But the most important was me family. Streamheart, Konrad, and Rosepaw... I wouldn't trade 'em for the world..."

- I find this also good and he is a great head guard and good protector of friends. And Abbot Benar even echoed my thoughts that night as he said Family is one of the most important things we can ever find. And I agree as if it wasn’t for my Papa, Uncle Oz and even Uncle Zee I would be so lost in the world.

Many other stories were told, all ending with the truth of family and friends being like pure gold to us all.

Now I shall speak of the Great Brock Hall,

A very grand old oak tree, it has stood here longer then Redwall has. Over the years badgers have come and gone and it has been inhabited by many beasts over the turning seasons. But even when it has stood empty as it does now Redwall has taken care of it, kept it preserved and cared for.

Here, at this 2nd location, we spoke of leaders of the past and now. Dorarose spoke of her grandfather who lived elsewhere from Mossflower and she let me include her tale in our records and this is her story from her own words,

“My grandfather, David Mightyone, had the Bloodwrath, great and terrible. He wielded this battleaxe, Nightsong, which was forged by his great-grandfather before him. My grandfather was wild and unpredictable when he was young, full of uncontrollable rage. He met my grandmother, Nancy. She was also a Warrior, but she was calmer than him. To try and win her love, he started working on self-control. Then the War came. Our enemies, the Perusians, were attacking us. Attacking Tuscani, and our great city of Roma. They outnumbered us, a thousand to our 300. We fought bravely, but they pushed us back, until we were right against the city's walls. My grandfather was leading our troops, struggling to not give in to his Berserker's rage. Our troops thought for sure they were going to lose, and die upon their city's doorstep. But help arrived, just in time! Our allies from the North came in, after 3 days of desperate, non-stop battle, and they came in and attacked from the back. Cheering, my grandfather led the troops of Roma in a last charge, letting the Bloodwrath take him over. Not a single Perusian was left alive that day. my grandfather was wounded terribly, and after the heat of battle left him, he slipped into a Deep faint." she shakes her head. "So many beasts were injured...or died. It was horrible. It took scores of seasons for the various wounds to heal....including the ones you cannot see. My grandfather, along with all the other wounded, were taking into Roma's large Infirmaries and treated. My grandmothers, Nancy and Angela, nursed him back to health together, for they were the best of friends. I am sorry to say that the few Perusians who were left were sold as slaves, for Tuscani has slavery as it's most heinous crime. Slowly my grandfather healed, and one day he asked Nancy to marry him. She agreed, and when he was fully healed, they had a quiet wedding at his father's house....which was passed down to my father, Farrer Strongpaw, which by rights belongs to my oldest brother, who lives somewhere in Tuscani still. My grandfather, because of his many wounds, was no longer a military leader, but he did lead troops in the skirmishes that always happen along roads. He and his wife died before I was born, but they left a legacy that I hope I am able to honor.”

- And honored it shall be in the abbey records.

Abbot Benar told the story of one of the first Abbess of Redwall, during the days before Redwall, when Mossflower was under the cruel enslavement of the Greeneyes Dynasty of Wild Cats. In this Hall lived Bella, the Badger Lady of Brockhall and it was here that Abbess Germaine first dreamt up the idea that would eventually become Redwall. Bella had lived here for a long time, in peace, but when the Greeneyes swept in from the north and conquered Mossflower her husband who was a farmer died resisting his forces. Many good and brave beasts died resisting the wild cats and though the population of Mossflower were not enslaved they were forced to labor hard and give up their crops as taxes. Though many tried to formulate plans for resistance Bella sat here in Brockhall, hidden, safe, and it is here that she made her plans. Drawing those to here who could resist the wildcats. It was here that Bella gathered the brave leaders of the resistance. It is here that Martin the Warrior came when he was rescued from the prison of the Wildcats by Gnoff the Mousethief. It is here that Abbess Germaine of lost Loamhedge came. It is here, during the long summer of resistance that the Abbess first had her thoughts of Redwall. There was a farm close to a riverbank where the Order Mice and Lady Bella took the young ones to be safe during the final rebellion against the cats. Abbess Germaine's original plans for Redwall are stored in the abbot's study back home. Along with Germaine's notebooks, she was the first Abbess and she wrote our charter and decreed our way of life. The Abbess spent the rest of her life building Redwall, the outer walls where first, a safe haven from the dangers of the world. They enclosed all those acres of land in beautiful red stone walls. After that they built the main building, the cloisters and yards. Martin made the Rose Garden be built himself.

Brother Leon join us a little later and shared a small story about Abbot Lorimis.

Brother Leon: ” What about him? He was a very wise leader and always listened to others. I remember I had not been at the abbey very long, and this was when I was just a novice. I remember that day well, when that Stormfeather was around. I don't know why I was on the wall tops that day I...well let’s just say I am rarely up there but that day I was, think cause was talking to Lorimis. Stormfeather already had Oz, and he had sent ravens to try and get Lorimis, I shoved Lorimis out of the way and the raven grabbed me instead .Lorimis wasn’t afraid or least he didn’t show it if he ever was or at any time really when there was danger."

- Abbot Benar confirmed saying the ravens they dropped burning barrels upon the abbey, they shattered and set fire to so very much. We lost the Kiln that day and all of our crops. It was a bad time but Lorimis rallied us all, he never wavered, he kept the order working side by side whilst providing support and courage to the Champion and Captain Lee to lead the guards.

I am glad the Kiln was rebuilt and will have to find out who rebuilt it from Abbot Benar later or maybe another beast can tell me. Some other news is we have a couple new friends, two sea otters named Mint and Aibne, they are brother and sister and may join us as we travel on the rest of this processional. The next stop from here is The village of Ferravale, its run by a cat named Scioto and the abbey and Ferravale has a peace treaty together. I am not sure what we will speak of or learn there but I am eager to find out as my Uncle Zee lives there! Why dos Uncle Zee live there? I am unsure, so maybe I will ask him and maybe he as some great stories and tales to tell us as well. In fact this is making me very excited, so I may see if I can go on ahead of the others to Ferravale. Besides I am a messenger as well and can let Chieftain Scioto know the abbey beasts will be in the village soon. I do hope he was told, I am sure he was and if not I will let him know so he is ready. Also my paw hurts from all this writing, it needs a rest. Well I must go talk to Abbot Benar now and see about heading to Ferravale ahead of the others, I think Rayen will be going with me, she is our Abbey Champion’s Mate and she can be some good company as I was never one to go too far on my own.

Till next time,

Sister Zinnia,Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Fifteenth Entry, July

Well,

Ferravale is surely interested. I am still unsure how my Uncle Zee likes this place. But there is a large market of some many different things, so unlike the abbey and so many things I have not seen before. I have been to Ferravale one other time but didn’t take the time to truly look around the village. It’s amazing here! The sights and smells, the many shops in the market place, there was even a small bit of booths in the main square near where the abbey beasts stayed, they stayed at the Inn mainly, and I stayed with my Uncle Zee at his hut.

The chieftain seemed in a fairly good mood today and even stayed a short while, while stories were told. Tonight we got to hear how Flicktail became a good beast. I wrote it down in his own words.

Flicktail: "I started life as a Dibbun slaver. My horde had made an attack on the Fire Mountain, not the brightest thing we ever did. A badger lord with red eyes were after me and me own brother put a shaft thru me foot paw so the Badger would get me and not them. I got very sick from the wound as I tried to get away, and I stumbled into Camp Willow. The Skipper agreed to allow me to live if I helped recover the dibbuns, which I did. I was so sick and cold. When I awoke, an otter pup had seen me and climbed up to keep me warm. I could not BELIEVE it as I was a slaver and here this PUP was helping me. I was going to be a Vermin. I was going to betray the otters, but I discovered something, for the first time in my life, I was warm and me belly was full and I was not afraid. But I was uneducated. And when me mentor, Kroova, came to me and told me foxes cannot live in Camp Willow, so you are going to BECOME an OTTER. Now I know what he meant is I would train as a Shield beast in the otter guard, but I believed I'd be a REAL otter. Even tried swimming under the ice once and that were not very wise of me. But I were terrified of badgers and of RedWall abbey because ALL vermin know martin will drag a vermin beast off to the Black Forest. When a feast came I was required to go to RedWall as an otter and oh I was so terrified of the tapestry and Colonel Zoe Lang, of the long Patrol herself .introduced me to Martin and I told him how sorry I was and that night, a White Mouse came to me. You see I used to be a RED fox. and he told me that to know it was real my fur would be white as my promise to be a good beast and that he would make me is champion to protect the dibbuns and good beasts of Mossflower and sure enough within a fortnight, Abbot Lorimis' mate showed up with this very blade and said she was visited by a white mouse and told to bring the blade to the abbey for a beast with fur like Martin's...."

Yeah, Lorimis had been married at one time, but I remembered reading in some old logs she has died, forgot what of so maybe I will look that up some time.

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Sixteenth Entry, July

Hello friends,

Next we stopped at Camp Willow along the River Moss, a very nice place with a very nice library as I spend some hours in there reading. The otters decided to try and out cook some hot root with Lacota. It was fun to watch, but I am unsure who won as I feel asleep.

Not too many stories were told, one I liked was one my Uncle Zee told. Oh yes Uncle Zee decided to come along with us for the rest of the trip, I think that’s great! His story was this in his own words.

Uncle Zee: "I know one of two brothers when they were younger, hee... Now this be seasons ago in the far snowy north, lots of seasons ago when they were 3 seasons and... Yes 8 seasons, but for an 8 season old he acted like a dibbun and probably still does. Anyways they were late getting back to the clan grounds so the older brother gets an idea to use a hollowed out log to...well slide down the steep snowy hill all the way to the bottom. A good..say it was 2 miles long," Zee goes on, "Anyways, the older brother talks the younger one into getting on the log... hee heee, now I was at the bottom when they came flying down, oh man never seen someone so grumpy as Silverfangs, tee hee...told them, you boys got here safe but that was a foolish thing to do and he grounded them both... it would of been better if they were late." He chuckles and grins, "And you all know the much older brothers now... the older one is Zork and the younger was is Oz.”

I rather enjoyed the story. I also learned some history of Camp Willow while in their library. Camp Willow was founded way back before the Abbey was even built. It aided in the fight against Tsarmina, and helped the abbey on countless occasions.

We then left to go to the Quarry and the sight of the Summer Feast!

I need to go, write again soon,

Sister Zinnia, Redwall Abbey Recorder

Sister Zinnia's Seventeenth Entry, July

Dear Friends,

The feast was wonderful and great. We had it at the quarry. This is where redstone was gotten for the abbey and also where an evil snake who had Martins sword many many seasons ago stayed, it was slain by Martin’s great sword.

The feast was named by my papa, Elder Zork as Abbot Benar asked him to name it and I think he chose well..The Summer of Friends and Renewal.

The food was great and so was time with friends and family. Some beasts became novice and Silverstorm was named Sister in the order, also very great news.

Well it is bed time my friends so good night till next time,

Sister Zinnia, Recorder of Redwall Abbey