I am glad to have retrieved you, my confidante, from the ashen remains of my home. It is a great comfort to again be presented the opportunity to record the happenings of my own personal war against the traitorous mass that name themselves "The Exiled". Their latest attack occurred but five days ere, when they burned my Manor to the ground, resulting in the death of my long-time servant, Gamlan the Elderly. Though I am indeed angered for his loss, and for this assault, I believe that fortune has begun to smile on me once more. For now I have an ally in this conflict.
The day following the tragic quietus of Gamlan, I received a lengthy, and fancifully written missive from a Dwarven Lord. He had heard tale of my disagreement with The Exiled, and requested my presence in discussing these matters. He assured my safety, yet I do not currently deem it wise to be so trusting, and so I brought with me an armed guard consisting of Hector's men.
It was quite obvious that this Lord sought to impress me with his wealth and the respect he commanded. For upon my arrival, I was to be greeted by a large military escort, the commander of whom led me into his Lord's study. I do not mind admitting my discomfort for having to enter alone, my guard to remain without, and for the foreign feel of the residence.
I was soon attended by the Dwarvish noble, and he bade me partake of any comforts he should be able to supply, his welcome warm and polite. I thought to refuse certain pleasantries, but his commanding demeanour cautioned against it. Feeling somewhat cowed in his presence, I decided to save some of my composure, and demanded that he speak his part, that we may discuss his reasons for inviting me into his domicile.
He acquiesced, and made known to me a great many things. Firstly, he stated that he had been approached by Damric Sarrell, and that he had been asked to aid The Exiled in their opposition of me. He had refused, feeling that they had little to offer him as reward, and figuring that I was the more likely to emerge victorious.
He desired to know the truth regarding the mysterious death of Kerl Duskblossom, and warned me that it would be foolish to dissemble. Feeling that he had already decided upon the culprit, I reluctantly confessed to the murder. To this, he reacted with little surprise, confirming my suspicion. He thanked me for my honesty, though I only narrowed my eye, miffed to have been so easily found guilty.
He continued to impart on me all that he knew concerning the Exiled. Apparently, Gerwolf Thalanduin only feigns friendship with me, and is in all actuality serving as an agent of my enemy. Milada Shadow-Hand, one whom I had assumed would side with me, is also one such agent, a spy amongst the Remnant Order. I was outraged for these revelations, and was unable to disguise my displeasure.
The Dwarven Lord, whom I have allowed to remain anonymous even in my writing for the various spies, counseled me to ally with old foes of my Order. Though I am loath to heed such instruction, I see the sapience in its action. However, these "Allies" shall be only a means to an end, and shall be discarded when when I have finally triumphed. He would also have me play to the whims of the House Thalanduin, and let them think me blind to their falsity.
Late into the night we conversed, and once finished, we exchanged polite farewells. I am satisfied for this union, and cannot help but allow a hopeful fluttering to arise in my breast. But, now, my thoughts turn to my new base of operations: The Winter Mansions.
The house in which I was wed, and in which my husband and I first consummated our marriage. I have not looked on it since Aornn's passing, though it seems I will now. I shall have word sent to Bucta. of my relocation there He shall know where to find it, for I have spoken oft of it.
Indeed, fortune does smile on me.
-D
