Count's Letter

A letter written on fine velum and sealed with wax.

Addressed to "Head of Dungeon Freaks Inc. LLC. The Lusty Housecat, 300 Dockside, Corin." The return address reads "The Archer & Cauldron, 2113 Goldenroad, Corin, Master Suite." A blue wax seal depicts a dragon in flight.

You open the letter and read on. -

Dearest “Dungeon Freaks”,

It is under great duress that I, His Honorable Comitem to the Emperor, Sir Arturo Pendragon, Count of Ebonshire and Heir to the Illuskan Province of Hornraven do entreat the attendance of an audience by the best and brightest leaders that your humble mercenary company has to offer.

My dilemma is this: While summering with my wife, Dame Countess Sylvia Hornraven-Pendragon, strange things began occurring in our vacation manse. Valuables began disappearing despite the loyalty of my guard, the assured discretion of my servants, and the best security that wizardry could provide. Though even I myself stood vigil many a night the culprit could never be observed entering or exiting the grounds of my villa. Things culminated when my dear Sylvia’s most valued heirloom was stolen. Necksplitter, an ancient, enchanted axe reclaimed from the bowels of Castle Ravenloft by one of her proud and bold ancestors was stolen from its display. My wife was distraught and began locking herself in our chambers, going so far as to wear all of her valuables to bed each night. One night a horrific shriek rang out from the bedroom and my guards and I rushed to batter down the door. Before me I found my beloved wife in bed, apparently crushed as if by a thresher or some horrific beast, stripped clean of all her jewelry.

So far from my Lands and Titles I have been treated as a common back-alley throat slitter. I have been accused,most outrageously of all, of murder most foul.

I place the following responsibilities in your charge:solve this crime, clear my name, and avenge my late wife. I am prepared to offer you any property recovered from the apprehended culprit as payment, as well as my gratitude.

Sincerely, Sir Arturo Pendragon Comitem to the Emperor, Ruler of County Ebonshire, Earl of Hornraven.