The Solution

My Dear Deidre,

I apologize for having taken so long to respond to your letter. In truth, it was initially received by Norah in the home we were to have made in the capitol, but that isn't where I am. You know how I have grown sick with disgust toward Francis for quite some time. Well, I have finally left him and followed a druidic coven back west to put as much distance between us as possible. I would have written to tell you as much myself, but my life has been ever busier since I left my family. Thankfully, my ever dutiful daughter was able to pass your words to me once I sent word that I have settled in Seres.

Life in Crane's holy city is not as grim as you describe Shaville's outlook to be. There is a food shortage here as well, which is why I do not regret leaving my children with their father. However, there is a sense of hope here that seems to come with the reasoning that these poor harvests have a cause. The Blackstones who govern these lands are certain they will find it in time and they have consistently reported every test they have attempted so far along with their results. They have so far taken credit for cleaning the waters of Lake Whitetree, bred hardier seeds for the next season, and begun to investigate the soil itself. While they still cannot guarantee a more typical harvest quite yet, everyone here understands that they are making great strides toward this goal.

You would love it here in Seres! Everyone seems to take responsibility for everyone else's well-being. My new neighbor Barton is always willing to trade meat for the cloaks I make, which he then shares with the townspeople. With their gratitude earned, I have been able to share in his bounty of whatever apples and grain they can spare. Things are still lean, but no one starves here. The only thing we seem to be lacking for here is your beautiful voice. I am certain Barton and Old Josette would happily trade a bushel of apples for a song. Bring your family if you must. Your presence is the only thing that would improve life in this city.

As for your wizard highwayman, I've never heard of him. I have been fortunate to avoid the attention of even ordinary bandits on my trips both to the Capitol and to Seres. I shudder to think what sort of evil lurks on the road now, but you can rest easy knowing that my own travels have been nothing but pleasant. Now that I am in Seres, I'm not going anywhere unless you need someone lucky to escort you out of your doomed village. You asked me what you should do and my answer is that you should get out of there before the famine claims the lives of you and your family as well! I am safe here and I am waiting for you.

With much love,

Annette Skye