[Sergeant Colmes: Isabella Fitzgerald]

[Empress of Neon]

Dear Sergeant Colmes,

I hope you are hale. It's been awhile. Ellanher remains infirm, but he's getting the best help he can get at Frostport. That snake, I fear, was no ordinary serpent.

You've probably heard I'll generally be out of Ephia's Well for the foreseeable future. Most of my presence in the Well, I fear, will be felt by my Oathseekers. I've received numerous complaints from both my Vendor, Tormod, and my Chosen Shamsa about the excessive approach to one janissary Kesandra. Between carrying 'necromantic bearings' that were little more than bones who's runes escaped one of Shamsa's companion (who she paid a substantial fine for) as well as accusing Tormod of being one himself for carrying one of those spider eyes (there was nothing necromantic about it).

My Oathseekers are not faultless in this; they have been corrected in using better judgement in what to carry and what to leave behind. Such accusations, however, were unwarranted. I'm sure you've carried a curative bone totem wand or two yourself from time to time, after plucking it from some monstrous tribe after all, have you not? And I know you've seen enough of those eyes by now to know while they may be disgusting and strange, they're not the stuff of viles (at least based on what I've seen). Either way, I take accusations of necromancy very seriously.

Necromancers are the most wretched of creatures and I'd rather not have the denouncement as such casually tossed upon my bodyguards and confidants. Not without substantial proof.

I'd rather not have to worry about any sort of tip-for-tap back in Ephia's Well between the Oathseekers and this new recruit. Please speak to her and help direct that passion unto the actual cretins who deserve it.

~ Isabella Fitzgerald

P.S If you need anything imported, let me know. Trade in the outer settlements has become my day-to-day affair.

[Blue41]

Citizen Isabella,

It falls to each one of our Soldiers to interpret the penal code as their judgement allows in the course of their duties. I would expect-- and I hope you would agree with me!-- that no Janissary would interpret the law exactly the same as the next in their patrols. To require as much, and enforce it, would be an impossible task better suited to gods than men.  While I personally would apply desecration towards human remains, rather than animals...that remains my personal beliefs.

That said-- the possession of so-called necromantic items is a minor crime, and may best be resolved with a show of charity rather than complicating the issue. If the fine paid by your employee was greater than five hundred dinar, then that's something I can speak with Kesandera about.

Be well. I still recall the chill of Frostport.

Sgt. R. Colmes

[Empress of Neon]

Dear Sergeant Colmes,

As usual, you speak with invaluable insight I wish I was privy to prior. I'll be sure to keep in mind that the penal code is open to interpretation, and ensure my Oathseekers appreciate such as well.

On the subject of fines, I understand my Chosen Shamsa paid 1,200 dinars, though I'm content to see her reimbursed from my own purse and move us all forward from this unfortunate incident rather than seek restitution. As always, thank you for being direct and to the point.

~ Isabella Fitzgerald