Journal of Guard Laewe in the Winter of the Long Icicles
Journey into Lockhaven
I still have not put down what happened while I was in Lockhaven. As I see nothing of interest (likely) happening for the next few days I will take this time instead to record what I did there and what I learned.
As I walked (wearily and pawsore) up to the gate of Lockhaven that evening a guard in saffron called down and asked me my business. I answered as I had planned . . . that I was seeking aid for my beleaguered town. I was let in and brought to the gatehouse to thaw out and get some warm soup in me. The gate guard introduced himself as Suirme and took my cloak and bade me to sit down by the fire to thaw. He was a young thing no more than a season or two into his duties (he told me he was still a novice when Midnight took his war to Lockhaven's gates). He apologized for not giving me more comfortable lodgings but that Gwendolyn or Landra themselves would be down to escort me in as a reward for my patience. I approve of this young mouse. Although young he seems wise in the ways of diplomacy. Either he must not leave his post to escort me in or (as I think is more likely) the Guard are carefully screening any and all mice who seek entrance.
Luckily for me it was Landra, the new master of defense, who came down to greet me. She and I had never met before and so I felt fairly confident that she would not recognize me. I told her my story and after a few questions, which I answered correctly, she led me up to her office. She bid me take seat there and introduced me to her helper, a black beetle. She then sat at her desk and began writing a missive. She fixed it to the beetles back and sent it on its way. At that moment she spoke, back turned to me. Her words were as follows. "Mouse Emma. I believe you words concerning Elmmoss are true. I have just sent a missive gathering a patrol to send there. But you are lying." Here I opened my mouth in protest as is fitting my part. She held out a paw "Or if your words are not outright lies, your tale is cleverly worded as to hide many things from those who would seek the truth. Nevertheless I feel I must trust you. I cannot explain this feeling except that I sense I must follow its instinct. Do not . . . I repeat, do not betray this trust or I will find you and learn your secrets." All I could do was nod my head. I had not heard of Landra being so keen-sighted. I am reminded that one who is pragmatic must not be blind. It is a good lesson to learn.
The sun is dipping below the horizon now and I wish not to light a fire so I will end for the night.
