To Elanor Fitzwulf [5/8, Early Morning, Castle Licorn]

[Ragnar Storm]

Dame Rain Hollen of House Hollen, the only female Knight of Storm, delivers a personal letter to the quarters of Elanor Fitzwulf in Castle Licorn.

Lady Elanor Fitzwulf,

I want to start by giving you my condolences. We do not know each other personally, but I fought with Jon Fitzwulf during the War. Despite his reputation, we remained friends until the war ended. We didn't see much of each other afterwards; something I regret. When the plague led House Storm into a crisis, there was no time for me visit the rest of the Fitzwulf family.

Know that I care deeply for the fate of the League. There will be discord--even within my own house, as to whether you have the ability to lead the League effectively. The North is volatile; it is a cold, harsh place, and it breeds men who care little for tradition. I am very sorry that this burden has been thrust into your hands. I hope that Jon's spirit will give you strength.

A storm is brewing, Lady Elanor, it would be best for us to prepare for it.

Sincerely yours,
Ser Ragnar Storm

[Elanor Fitzwulf]

(Arrives 5/8, afternoon, and is delivered by one of Elanor's servants).

Ser Ragnar,

I thank you for your kind condolences. They mean much to me in these troubled times, and I take them to heart.

I do, however, understand your concern, or rather the concern of those in your household. I am young and inexperienced, and more damning still, I am female. I recognize this. But what, I ask you, is required to lead a country? Is it savagery and a thirst for blood? I admit that here I am lacking. I have some knowledge of the sword but I am no warrior and do not claim to be.

Instead, I aim to be a healer. Has not Arbrecht had enough of bloodshed and pain? Do not even warriors ache for the relief of balms and bandages after a battle long? I know they do. I have seen the weary faces of men returning.

I think my brother's spirit will lend me some strength, but much has been given me already -- not from Jon, but rather from Arbrecht. The raging seas, the winters, the piercing mountains and eagle's cry. Our homeland fills my pulse as I am certain it does yours, and to your household I say this:

I am able to rule. I have a sound mind and a strong will, and I bear a love for Arbrecht that you might not believe since you do not know me well. I want our province to rise and I will put my arms and sweat to it, even my life's blood. In short, Lord Lightning, I will give as much as I am allowed to give. Do not spurn the sweat I offer because it is woman's, nor the blood, nor the life. They still have some power for change and I give them freely.

That said, even if women's gifts mean less than man's, the greatest man in the world could not do this task alone. The Stormlords are needed, now more than ever. If my family's greatest allies decide I am unworthy to guide them, then I am ashamed to have failed my ancestors and the League so badly. I cannot help this province without some support, no matter what I am willing to give and what has already been given. If even you will turn from me now, then you must inform me at once so my last hours as Queen may at least be spent in diligence preventing another war.

Your servant,

Elanor Fitzwulf, Lady of the North.

[Ragnar Storm]

(This note was delivered to Elanor Fitzwulf during her dinner, wherever she may have taken it.)

Lady Elanor Fitzwulf,

You are mistaken, it is I that is your servant.

It would be benenificial for us to meet, whenever convenient.

Sincerely yours,
Ser Ragnar Storm

[Elanor Fitzwulf]

(The same evening)

Lord Lightning,

Thank you for your swift response. It would be my honor to meet with you; please attend me tomorrow morning at ten.

All my thanks,

Elanor Fitzwulf.