To: Maverick Belle

[Fuzziebunny]

A seal letter that smells faintly of orange blossoms is delivered to the museum in Aquor.

Maverick,

I would like to hire you to look in on Michael for me. I received a rather disturbing letter from him and I can't get away right now to check on him personally. I am not quite sure what sort of trouble he has gotten himself into this time, but it could be dangerous. Please, do be discrete. Michael is prone to getting himself into all sorts of difficulty with the most black hearted people. Don't put yourself at risk, I only want information.


Your time is valuable and I would never want you to think I don't respect all that you do for me. I am not sure what to offer in payment for this sort of thing. If you feel stags are appropriate then simply name the amount you desire. I will pay it. Should you want a favor in return, you have but to name it. It will be yours. Or, you may ask me one question, any question, and I will answer it completely. Michael is like a brother to me and I am desperately worried. I know this is not exactly your area of expertise but don't know anyone else I can trust to do this and keep what they find out, if there is anything to find out, quiet.


Chime

[Phantom Lamb]

Miss Chime,

It's very good to hear from you. I hope only pleasant things keep you occupied these days.

I checked in on Sir Michael at your request. Word around town is he drinks heavily now and frequents the Second Wind. That much indeed seems true.

However, I do not see a lost or vulnerable man yet. Whatever event changed his course, he now seeks an understanding of all peoples. Based on his past actions, I see a man who wants to foster diplomacy - something we forego too often in this land, abandoning the hope of peace too quickly by zealously declaring enemies irrational and evil. I can't say that I believe he will succeed as a mediator, but I applaud the effort.

The one woman I chanced to meet him engaged with was indeed a Myrkulite. However, she was very level-headed and perhaps even kind. Were I to see him with less balanced people - be them the smiling undertaker, Thresh, or any zealot of any faction - I would be more concerned they were taking advantage of the man's fragility. As it is, I will continue watching and offering quiet advice to him.

Yours in truth,



M.B.

[Fuzziebunny]

After several days another letter is sent in the same way to the same address

Maverick,


The work isn't unpleasant. But I wouldn't mind at all if I were distracted by more pleasurable pursuits. Perhaps the Lady will favor me with some deliciously improper dream as a reward for all this work I am doing. Even if she doesn't though, the thought alone is something to look forward to. Or it will be when I finally find the time to sleep at any rate.


I trust your museum is coming along good and that looking in on Michael is not too much of a distraction? I don't want to be a bother when you have so many other things to take care of. I did however want to write you and let you know how appreciative I was for your efforts on my behalf. You have eased my fears and brought some comfort to my heart with your letter. I don't know how you always manage to say or do just the right thing. Though I will admit, it's a talent I have come to associate with you. Perhaps you will teach me your secret, yes? One can only hope.


It was rather nice to hear that Michael is working on diplomacy. I too am working towards a stable future for Sundren. Though Michael and I don't have the same methods, I think we both have the same intent. My prayer is that we can all continue to work towards peace. It is only when ones children are safe and free of hunger, that the pursuit of art and the preservation of beauty will flourish. With luck, I will see you both soon. Be well darling and I will pray the Lady fills your days with the wonder of her beauty and your nights with the passion that blazes in her heart.

You are in my thoughts,

Chime