I. YSTRIEN’S LETTER

Graddick pondered what he’d just read. He had little idea who the writer was, “cousin” or no, and his familiar tone–along with those knowing allusions to Graddick’s parentage–offended him. But he was intrigued. He took the letter from the stone bench where he’d cast it aside and reread it. The courtyard was empty. From inside the church he heard hymns. A drop of rain made several words bleed together. 

1 Eleasis, 1373

Dear Graddick,

I assume you don’t remember me. We met once about ten years ago. We were just children. I’m afraid I haven’t grown up much since then–but I hear you’re a knight now, that you’ve sworn oaths to the Order of the Aster, and that you’re grave and honorable. Aunt Pivonia–(“Who?” Graddick wondered)–tells me you’re six feet tall, built like a minotaur, and look very much like Azoun IV. As for me–Well, you and I are cousins. Or maybe I should say we’re supposed to be cousins. Your mother’s husband was the oldest of six siblings. The youngest of these was my father.

But that’s neither here nor there. I have a proposition for you. I serve Lathander at a church here in Selgaunt. I am in my novitiate, and the High Morninglord has asked me to journey north, to Melvaunt, on the Moonsea, as a trial of faith and effort. I am to bring news and some items to one Ulblyn Blackalbuck, a friend of the church and a covert opponent of slavery in that region. I am to help him in his righteous efforts.

My mother is a Nanther, and until recently a Nanther ruled Melvaunt. The High Morninglord thinks the family connection will blunt any suspicions about my visit. We will see. In any case, your name came up as several clerics and I planned the journey. I learned that you have served the church in Eveningstar well and been granted a leave of absence for half a year. If you have no better plan, I would welcome your assistance and company!

Sincerely,

Ystrien Aurent, Novice of Lathander