Greetings to Duke Blas Severin and Duchess Alliana Ordthea Severin,

I hope that this letter finds you both well, Lord and Lady Severin. There is no merriment in my message to you this day. As spring brings a brusque unseasonable chill to the kingdom, it too brings a looming shadow on the Archduke of our good nation.

As of last month, Archduke Nathaniel Meran has fallen ill. His health failing rapidly, we fear for the worst. Archduchess Callibella Hollia Meran, the mother of our dearest Queen Isabella Meran Mare, has been beside herself with grief as we search for healers. As of yet, there have been no successful attempts.

The illness does not appear to be contagious, thankfully, but it has taken from Lord Meran his strength to walk. As of late, it seems to be affecting his breath while he sleeps, as well.

In this difficult and trying time, we ask you to pray to the divine for Archduke Meran’s health.

We are sending this message to all four ducal families. In the event that Lord Meran is taken from us by this illness, know that the Meran family will stand tall. Should the gods deign to take our dear Archduke, the royal family humbly requests the presence of Duke Severin, Duchess Severin, and the young Lord Severin at proceeding ceremonies.

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In sending this, we hope to prepare you for the unrest this news may bring among the common folk once it gets out. The archducal and royal families have decided not to share news of his illness as of yet. Given the Meran’s ties to the royal family, no doubt a power struggle would ensue.

In response to this, we have assembled a small gathering of peacekeepers. They are specially trained for non-lethal control of crowds and have been deployed to many major settlements. As well, we have begun spreading rumors early of various sorts to prevent clear news from traveling swiftly. Enclosed are said suggested rumors, and we would encourage you all to aid the spread of them if you would be so kind. That way, we can instill confusion in any potential trouble populations. It is advised to encourage uniformity of information among the more connected of your noble families that serve you.

We know that you all have worked closely with the Archduke in a variety of functions over the years. His Majesty shares in the grief that you must be feeling, and ready assured that his family is well, if worried. Should you have any healers that you think may be of assistance, even outside of official circles, it is encouraged by Archduchess Meran to send them to the family. Any assistance rendered will be deeply rewarded.

In pressing news to the Severin Duchy, there has been report of movement of troops southward in the Dusau Kingdom to the west. Given the shared border, King Mare requests Duke Severin situate extra men in the area. No further issue with Dusau is expected, but the King wishes to be cautious. Please report if necessary.

Wishing you all the best of health,

Baron Seamus Dillion the Fourth

Administrator of Communications