As you continue your search of the wagon you find not only a pendant, but
also footprints leading off towards the south. In the distance you can see
smoke rising from a large fort. The smoke is from a kept fire, not the
burning of buildings, and your instincts tell you that the Malems, if still
alive, were taken that direction.
You think Vahlarriel at Nijel's Point should
not only see the pendant you've found, but also know about the signs of life
to the south.
The two of them were warned about how dangerous coming here would be. Now
they're both missing... or worse.
You said you saw tracks heading to a fort nearby? That may be our best bet.
From what the locals have said, that fortress is infested with members of the
Burning Blade--orcs who have dedicated themselves to demon causes. They may
not represent the majority of the Horde's beliefs, but they are evil and will
slay you on sight if you're caught spying.