Disclaimer: I own all the characters in this chapter except King Jon and the King's Own
A/N: Yes, I know this chapter's short. It sets the scene for the rest of the story. Things are a little confusing. It fits in later.
Prologue
Dearest Friends:
It has been too long since I have seen you last. It is nice living here, but I wish I could talk to you. I have things I would like to tell you, but I can't afford to come see you at thins time. Maybe you could come see me, but I think that you also could not afford it. Life here isn't pleasant. It seems that Life doesn't want to be nice to me. I don't know if I can live like this anymore. The days are so long and the nights are too short. I am so alone. I'm going crazy. I need help.'
Your Truest Friend, Merry
Merry gently set down her quill as she thought. I really do wish I could go see them. There is so much they need to know. I only told them half of it before I had to go. Things need to change.
* * *
To King Jonathan of Conte, King of Tortall:
Your Majesty,
I am in dire need of help here on my fief. There is a thief that terrorizes all who pass through the forest to my castle. He steals from the nobility that come to visit me. I have sent my guardsmen and personal soldiers to capture him. They have been unsuccessful on numerous occasions. I am requesting that you send three squads of the King's Own to aid in capturing this thief. Please send them under competent command. I would not want your efforts to be in vain.
Your ever faithful vassal, Baron Abelard of Miran
Abelard set his quill into it's holder. I wish I knew why this man was plaguing me. I have done nothing to deserve this.