Kolyan's Letter to Ismark

Dear Ismark:

Do not read this letter aloud. I cannot take my secret to my grave. I must pass the burden to you; I am sorry my son.

But a short time after your mother died in childbirth I found a poor infant north of town. I knew not how she got there, but we know what the people would have done in fear, seeing the child's crimson hair. Fortuitiously a family in Vallaki agreed, as a way to socialize their son, to take her in. A scant few years later they were all slaughtered by wolves. All but dear little Ireena, again a miracle.

Ireena is not my flesh and blood. Yet she is my child, with all my heart. Take care of her in my stead. Protect her from the Devil’s gaze; get her to safety if at all possible. We can only hope for a miracle, one last time.

You have become a fine gentleman, Ismark. I know you to be capable of such leadership. Make me proud, my son.

Kolyan, your father