Found:
Opportunity.
I'm not sure exactly when it was that I came up with the notion to do as I am doing. Some years ago, but I cannot say precisely when. Was it always a thought at the back of my mind? One that lay peacefully dormant for as long as my travels and digs could continue? Had I planned this all along without realising, too caught up in that single-minded persona I wore for so long?
I know that it has been years in the building. One step taken, then another and another, slowly and over time. I also know that it is close to fruition now. The hall has long been built and my summer there has brought me that much closer to my goal.
It occurs to me that I have neglected one very important piece of the plan. Until now.
The document was drawn up months ago. Legal and binding, there will be no way to escape it. Its purpose is clear or, at least, as clear as such long-winded jargon could ever be. I need only take these last few steps to make it unbreakable. A paper shackle to secure the future.
Running into the Odd Couple here has proved favourable in that respect. Though he was wary of my motives - a thing for which I can hardly blame him - Aeruthiil granted my request. Perhaps he sees some merit in my machinations. Perhaps he simply wished to humour me. It doesn't really matter in the end. I have what I need from him.
However, for this to succeed, it would be prudent to acquire a second and I know precisely where to find him. More still would be preferable, but highly unlikely.
If Dimheim is correct, then taking some time to myself will ease my mind. Nothing has ever soothed my spirit quite as much as a good journey. It's hardly the best time of year for it - how I hate the cold! - but I think, for more reasons than the obvious, it is needed.
Come morning, I shall depart. South first, and then west. To a place I have never been before! How wonderful that shall feel!
I'm glad I remembered to bring my furs.
