I’m not in the mood to write up a manifesto of my ideas, and I’m not sure if you’re interested in still hearing them. If you are, read on, and I’ll send you a more in-depth plan in time.

The duergar cannot be defeated through strength of arms, at least not at present. They have too many resources at their disposal for the Clan to have any hope of defeating them. You need to weaken them financially if you can, and that can be done by pursuing the weapons trade.

Before you can do that, you’ll need a solid economic base. Build up a brewery and contract yourselves to the inns around the city to produce ale with the backing of the man that Fynear and I spoke with in the Pissing Crone.

I’d like nothing more than to help you build up the Clan’s industry and help you maintain it as a shield to protect our kin, but I’m afraid that that may no longer be possible. I was hardly able to speak a sentence in my defense without Apgar kicking under the table and interrupting me at the moot. It was shameful behavior, and it has made me question whether the Stouthearts are a Clan worth belonging to. I have confidence in your leadership and in many of the members of the Clan, but this was unconscionable. I have explained my side of the story and I hope that you were able to see my innocence through the logic of my argument.

There is a man of some importance who is interested in conversing with you, and I secured the name of the necromancer. I will pass both names on to you soon.

I'm writing you first and formost because I care about the survival of our kin, and you may use the information as you please. Do keep in mind that there is wisdom in looking at being said rather than what is being said about the person saying it. As long as our members act out on their bitterness and hatred and strike at our own kin, we will forever be pebbles in the field.

I will be available if you need me,

Helmut