It seems that even in the wake of such a joyous event, I am still not free of my mistrust and my anguish, and neither are aids in forming such "friendships" as I shall need. I have spurned the Dwarven Lord through his son, whom had previously gone unannounced as such. My harsh words have likely driven them to fury, and they shall return for my head...and Bucta's.
This evening, as I sat near my furnace, reading from one of the more aged tomes that lay about the Mansions, I was given news of Theowic the Merchant's approach. Waiting without, I greeted him with curt gestures and reprimands. Finally, I invited him within, though I was reluctant to share my home with him a second time. We sat opposite one another, and he presented me with an envelope, his report stuffed into it.
It was...disappointing, to be frank.
Informing him of my displeasure, I was suddenly interrupted by the Captain of the Dwarvish guard. He thought to scold me for my "rudeness" towards an honoured guest and valued ally. I accepted the rebuttal, though reluctantly, thinking it wiser to not provoke the Captain, as he had long since earned the favour of his master.
We continued, the three of us, in deep conversation. I made aware to them my feelings regarding our negligence towards the Remnant Order's duties; to dispose of the criminals that Bree-town harbours. He mocked me with laughter, and spoke saying that he found it amusing that I should think his Master to be in dereliction.
I allowed them a moment to express their concerns, to protest. Theowic was a fool, and thought he saw what was in our best interests: To discontinue our efforts in Bree, and focus only on the Exiles. I voiced my doubts for his views, and then the Captain lashed out swiftly to me. He spoke, "You think you are wise? Wisdom does not sit upon a chair, insulting its guests, nor does it think to prick the finger of my master's extended hand."
So, the Dwarvish Lord thought himself in command? I would not allow this. I would crush all such delusions here, and now, before his most loyal servant. Then, after I had spat and threatened the Captain, he revealed himself to be the Heir to his father's nobility, to his wealth, and broke off our alliance, ere he fled from the grounds, in fumes.
The merchant soon followed, though I halted him briefly outside, threatening him with the deadly aim of Hector's bow, already taut of string and nocked with arrow. He feigned surrender, and I thought that perhaps he might return to discuss things in a more rational manner, I having already begged forgiveness for my unjustified ranting. Yet, he soon turned heel also, and followed after the Dwarf.
I fell to my knees, knowing that the wrath of the Dwarven Lord and his son and captain to be a power even I would be fearful to contend with. They would return bearing arms, and they would have me hanged before my own manor, and Bucta would be hanged beside me for our association. Such were the spoils that my recklessness would bring upon us.
Then, Bucta appeared, though it seemed he did not know of the matters at hand. He smiled sheepishly to me, and I felt my heart break for my foolishness. This man whom had stood beside me for so many month, whom had never raised voice nor hand to strike me, my one friend...and he could be felled all for my fault.
He saw my distress, and inquired as to its origin. When my answer was given, he sped away, seeking to pursue our former allies, and perhaps treat with them a second time. He would convince them of my grief at this, he would give them my apology in all its sincerity and formality. I returned to my rooms, and sat down near the fire. I began to spell out a missive, to be delivered to the Dwarven noble should Bucta fail to deal properly with the upset pair.
I only hope that he is accepting of it. That he displays once more his generousity and courtesy...
I have decided: I am not fit to lead the Remnant...not alone. When my betrothed returns, I shall offer him its power, and I shall stand at his side. Yes, perhaps even the Dwarf will see the humility I will be expressing, despite my pride, despite my arrogance. If he does not, then I have made a second enemy, and the two of them together will prove my downfall...
-D
