Myrkentown's Savior?

[Treadwell]

Life had been unsettling recently, to say the least; it was a whirlwind--a chaotic gale of a forced resignation, a sudden marriage, time spent in jail, and now rumors that Gad, well, wasn't Gad.

The first three were easily dealt with. He has a chance to regain his position as governor, or, possibly, to end up as one of Kanashia's councilmen--something they'd discussed in private. The marriage was turning out wonderful. Time spent in jail was marginal, though frazzling.

Rumors that Gad wasn't Gad had to be settled.

"I don't see why it's not possible, Gad old boy." Aloisius Treadwell sat in his study at home, doing what else but studying? Violet had him on something of a diet (fewer meals between meals and fewer desserts, no late night snacks), so eating right now was out of the question.

"You need to restore their faith in their fat former governor. There's news of an inquisition coming--no one expects the Myrken Inquisition!--and there's currently no one in *charge.* Giscard seems to despise being out in public; he's no leader, no statesman, no representative. Joseph's a *farmer* of all things; what nobleman of Myrken Wood is going to follow a fieldworker? Tetsi--rest his soul--has passed." He paused here to bow his head in silent respect, and then those fat lips continued. "Altias is missing still, I suppose, as is Alexander."

"That leaves you, chum. You're the only man left alive in town with anything resembling political experience. Like it or not, Myrken Wood is going to have to put up with you for at least the next couple of days! Mmph mmph!"

Gad was on his feet before he knew it, and the portly politician in a newly purchased, newly fitted black suit and hat made his way out of his study--and house--with a scroll case in hand. In that case was a note to be delivered to the town criers. Its contents?

= = = = =

To All Fellow Citizens of Myrken Wood

Greetings from your former governor.

I present myself before you reformed, reforged, after having submitted myself to the will of the people. I see the current state of affairs in Myrken--the floods, the death of our Councilor Avarante, the kidnappings of our dear Councilor Bromn and former Captain Kanashia, the assaults on us all by this monster called 'the Baie,' an upcoming inquisition for all of such--and I mourn them.

I see the absence of our remaining leaders. I hear the rumors concerning their disappearances--and concerning my own person!--and I yearn for the revelations of the truth.

I give myself fully to solving these mysteries, to righting these wrongs. I seek to help those of Myrken in any way that I can--including through leading it once more. Citizens of Myrken Wood, look to me as your governor, your ally, your companion, and your guide.

I am well aware of the upcoming election. I seek not to dispute that. The populace has chosen that another be given a chance to lead--but for the moment, who, people of Myrken, is in control? Who is in charge? Who is the center of this storm, the cornerstone of this foundation? I hereby hope to establish myself as such again, if just for a few days.

I seek your trust and your support. I will not fail you a second time if given a chance to lead.

For Myrken,

Gad Phuri.

= = = = =