DEMANDS UNTO THE PRINCE

[poki 389]

 

 

DEMANDS UNTO THE PRINCE

 

☩☩☩

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UNTO THE PRINCES OF ALSTION,

 

Your weakness is but a reflection of that which grips all of Aevos, the force that stifles the realms of all Man. For, in your feeble state, you've summoned all the might which could be mustered to the Alban banner. All this, for naught but a host of mercenaries, of whom this land is overrun, thanks in no small part to your misrule. In spite of all your efforts, however, we have captured your leal courtier, the Lady Maude of Österland. Be assured, she is kept in our care—unharmed, well-fed, and far from suffering. Mourn not for her, as she shall be returned similarly unharmed, should you yield to the simple demands I set forth. You will find them reasonable, a kindness extended in light of our shared Horenic blood, however sullied yours may be.

 

I — ON RANSOM

For the return of the Lady Maude of Österland, our company demands one thousand minae, to be delivered unto us in full by the Saint’s Morrow. 

 

II — ON KIN

For in your greed, you have seized what is not yours, torn from us one who has stood in his duty. You hold Eadwig, our loyal officer. Be assured, we do not beg, nor do we cower—we demand his return, unharmed and far from suffering. Delay not, for there shall be no mourning, only reckoning, should you refuse this simple course. You will find it fair, a final kindness offered despite the stain upon your honor.

 

III — ON RECOGNITION

For too long, my name has been spoken of in hushed derision, casting me as naught but a bastard of sullied Horen blood. Yet, in your efforts to diminish me, you only affirm what you fear—that I am more than the stain you name me, more than the shadow you would see forgotten. And so, in spite of your silence, you will speak my name, not as an afterthought, but as truth. You will grant me the recognition that is mine by right.

 

You will find my terms are simple and fair, for I care not for the petty lands you cling to. Should you comply, the Lady Maude shall be returned to you in whole; should you refuse, she shall return a reminder of your folly. Spare me your words and yourself, the ink, for I care little for the groveling which the ‘men’ of Aevos have grown so accustomed to. 

 

Do not test the mercy I have already granted you. 

Do not keep me waiting.

 

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SIGNED,

Lucius,

scion of Camilius Jrent, 

of the line of the Dragon Knight

 

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