private letter: Fang Kirin Ashewood - Though delivered to Therene.

[SadGruffman]

[the parchment reads upon the outside]: "Fang Therene, Please read to Fang Ashewood in Private."

Kirin,

Though I know the differences in our ideals are great, I've always had the utmost respect for you. Since the first few days of my time in Arabel, you have been there. Not always as the friend I needed, as I still hold some resentment for the days that you would peddle me alcoholic holy waters while I struggled with my vices, yet still, you were a friend who was there.

That said, knowing the battles that lie ahead of us, and the struggles you've chosen to burden so that Arabel need not, I would like to salute you in the only way a knight, and father, could.

Know that the sword, Laam Wilaml, is awake. I swear this by my oath as a Knight. They are quiet, they are humble, but they are certainly, undeniably, awake. The sword is yet young and needs a tutor on the matters of Arcane. I can think of no greater teacher than yourself. I would ask two things of you: be yourself always, and never lie to Laam Wilaml. They will know.

I've long pondered what will become of the Kingdom without myself to nudge it back into stability. The line of Seekers must continue after my passing. Though I feel none may truly ever own a living thing, I do believe it is our responsibility to aid it in finding a home. Therefore I write you this letter as confirmation of my will upon my death: Laam Wilaml belongs to Arabel. May they who are worthy come forward and claim it. Until such time, the Order of Aster will continue their duties as its caretaker. If the Order of Aster is to relinquish this duty, then you, Kirin Ashewood, must take up the cause.

Your friend,
Nich