In Golden Ashes

[TinyDream]

From the Office of the Captain-General

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the execution of Troy of the Musketeers.

I ordered his arrest on charges of association with the Mydaea Cult of Viritas, and suspected association with the Hiraeth coven.
In interrogation, he proved uncooperative and claimed all connections with Viritas were at order of Emmeline Emeraldi, 
and that he knew nothing of his bloodline or what it could possibly have to do with these suspicions.

This is to be considered understandable. Most do not enjoy coming under suspicion.

However, his possession of several high-quality artifacts personally crafted by Melione Hiraeth,
allegedly held for 'resale' and purchased in Viritas,
put his testimony under high suspicion.

A mistake charging his collar led to its expiration.
I spoke with him about being put under another collar, and expediting his case.
As someone very fond of Troy, I intended to clear his name if it could be cleared,
and to handle this mercifully if it could not. 

Association, after all, need not be a death sentence.

However, under my promises to assist, Troy resisted a second arrest.
He claimed personal insult by Nix Bargiel as his justification.

In combat with Bansai Talalt, he revealed the shining Aether of Melione Hiraeth.

As he told me clearly he preferred death over capture and, as he revealed he was in contract,
chose to reveal his associations, then continued to profess his ignorance as to what that Aether meant,

I made the decision to execute Troy. Because of the circumstances,

I ordered Bansai Talalt to consume his Aether.

Upon consumption, to our surprise, 

her wings transformed, 

mirroring the signature traits 

of the Hiraeth bloodline.

This confirmed all my suspicions, to my displeasure. Troy had come to me years ago pretending to be an ignorant orphan.

I taught him holy magic as his mentor. I heard his story, and despite the oddity that was his wings,
I hoped he would do well by all that led him to me. I prayed for him, and offered him my blessings.

He was always a wolf in sheep's clothing.
I have preserved his remains and personal effects.
If next of kin - and only kin - wish to reclaim them, then write to me.

I take full responsibility.

Warmest regards,

Sarina Mellows
Captain-General of the Goldlight Order
Summer 2181AC

Several copies of this missive are sent to every settlement of note upon Meranthe, spread through criers or bulletin boards as necessary.
The grisly nature of the report inspires disgust and uneasiness among many citizens of the continent.
The Goldlight Order wears the sin and virtue of this execution upon its sleeve.

The proof made clear, written black and gold upon Bansai's wings.