To the People of Oren,
We are at a crossroads, and I do not blame the confusion or fear that has gripped our once-great Empire. I understand why many have turned to my nephew Frederick out of fear and believing he is the only path. And while I love my nephew dearly and I know he doesn't do so unknowingly but he leads you astray. He is blinded by ambition and foolish ideas. I have no doubt he has the love for Oren in his heart as do many of you. Which is why I am writing this letter.
My nephew has betrayed the Empire. Everything we’ve fought, and died for will be undone. He seeks to hide away in Providence as our lands are seized and broken up. He will speak whatever honeyed words he must to gain your support.
I ask every man, woman, child, noble, or commoner who has thrown their lot in with foolish Frederick, why? Do you fear losing all that you have gained, will you always roll over for those that seek power and cower behind them. Have the people of Oren no spine? Many have already come out against this foolish Fredrick. Many will risk their lives, and their titles and position not because it is easy but because it is right. I suppose you believe is the safer option, but I ask you are you truly loyal to this pretender or do you fear losing what you have gained? If you have any love for your country then you will support the true Emperor Peter IV.
Or, is it that you stand aside not willing to risk your own life and position. Then I shame you; APATHY IS DEATH! You will stand idle as your fate is decided for you. You are unable to make a stand either because you are a coward or a fool. A coward for knowing what is right but doing nothing - and a fool if you believe that doing nothing is the right thing to do.
Perhaps you truly believe that foolish Frederick is the rightful ruler. I ask you on what grounds does this claim come from? If I recall if my dear brother and sister-in-law have vanished then every Law of Man states it should go to Peter Augustus. In fact, foolish Frederick is third in line as the youngest of my brother’s ilk. Or maybe you have convinced yourself, that despite no rightful claim he would make a much better ruler. I ask you to look around and see the results of this ‘King of Oren’. The Empire is in a state of anarchy, war has come once again after so much has been lost already.
I am willing to lay my life down for the Empire, let no one question where my loyalty lies.
Signed,
John Casimir Novellen, Prince of the Empire