More responsibility, an oath, and already more troubles. Leadership outside of my house feels thankless. I can’t weigh in too heavily, and all of these differing ideals make creating a system that runs itself impossible. These people must make decisions for the land they live in and take accountability. But really? A pub? Over almshouses? And after the aghast defense of the war trodden when I offered up the Conscription Prison as a solution to the Scum problem. You’d think I’d slit their mothers’ throat in her sleep. Shelter, food, and training. Structured so as to stave off the despair of sudden levies. What do these people want for those giving nothing back to society, unable or not? Granted, the bare logic of its name is perhaps too blunt for understanding outside of Rogalia. But it seems they think Scum all babes in the cradle rather than a threat to the working populace they are.

Somehow, despite this forum being more taxing than last, the arrival of Lorelei and Leonora made it seem lighter. Our cheer seemed four-fold with Lorelei returned, and the reliable silhouette of Leonora eased my worries. The news of vampires they brought with them was more than unwelcome. I cannot believe the creatures had hidden themselves so far north. The fallout of the battle at the Monastery and all those compromised leaves me worried. Should I be thankful this is an enemy I am familiar with? Or should I be dreading that what I believe I know is nothing in comparison to what is lurking here? The matter of Alu is already something I feel unprepared to understand. The man, thing, was struck down only to get back up, and even those native to this land seem to have no clear answer.

I can do nothing, but that which I can. We cleansed the Fort, and that, at least, is a worry laid to rest. We will be able to build up a force there and lay groundwork for stability. Men and arms will be needed whatever comes, and House Valerian will see that it does its part. Despite the Drake’s sniffing about. My guess is they will make some play for the fire mages which were abandoned at the Fort. Which, I am informed, they were told of last forum. If the foppish man they have sent is any indication, I fear there will be delays in all proceedings.

I pray that candles lit at home for Soldier’s Day stayed lit till the morning. Father Erasmus kindly blessed our candles for the event. It was an odd celebration visiting graves unknown to us, and without the stories connected to them shared around a fire. But something in the ritual of the Howling Flame and the oath made there held a kindred spirit. In the end, the fire burned hot all the same.