To: Lord Cedric Vale
Subject: The Duskwatch Problem
Cedric,
I have exhausted every reasonable approach to undermining Lord Veilwood.
Nothing is working.
Absolutely nothing.
I will outline my many attempts below, not just for my sanity but so you understand the depths of my frustration.
<hr>
Attempt #1: Economic Destabilization
The plan was simple—if Duskwatch refused to be taxed, I would ruin its trade routes.
I had my agents bribe and threaten merchants to avoid doing business there.
The result?
<ul><li>The merchants ignored us.</li><li>Trade increased.</li><li>More businesses moved to Duskwatch.</li></ul>
Why?
Because without tariffs, bribes, and oversight, trading there is easier than anywhere else.
In trying to undermine him, I made Veilwood’s economy even stronger.
<hr>
Attempt #2: Bandit Disruptions
Fine. If trade couldn’t be stopped, I would harass it instead.
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
I hired bandit groups to raid the roads leading to Duskwatch.
The result?
<ul><li>The merchants fought back.</li><li>The bandits joined Duskwatch instead.</li><li>My hired criminals sent me apology letters.</li></ul>
I received an actual note from a bandit leader, Cedric.
<blockquote>
"My lord, Duskwatch is not worth robbing. Their merchants are armed, their militia is terrifying, and the local baker carries a crossbow. I have taken up a respectable job as a courier. Please do not contact me again."</blockquote>
This cannot be reality.
<hr>
Attempt #3: Political Scandal
If I could not destroy his economy, I would destroy his reputation.
I sent envoys to spread rumors in the noble courts—claims that Lord Veilwood was incompetent, corrupt, and possibly even plotting against the empire.
The result?
<ul><li>Half the nobles dismissed it outright.</li><li>The other half found him even more interesting.</li></ul>
One even said:
<blockquote>
"If he is truly that dangerous, perhaps we should learn from him."</blockquote>
I have never in my life seen a nobleman gain power by doing nothing.
And yet, here we are.
<hr>
Attempt #4: Infiltration
Desperate, I sent three spies to gather intelligence.
None of them returned.
Elaine Stormcrest, Veilwood’s former knight-turned-militia-commander, found them immediately.
She personally escorted them out of town and sent me a letter.
<blockquote>
"Dear Count Devereaux,
Thank you for your continued interest in Duskwatch.
I have returned your men unharmed. They were rather unconvincing.
Next time, at least send someone competent."</blockquote>
She signed it with a smiley face, Cedric. A SMILEY FACE.
<hr>
Conclusion: I Am at My Limit
I do not know how Veilwood is doing this.
He does not participate in politics.
He does not manage his own economy.
He does not command his own militia.
Yet everything works.
And worst of all—we have no idea how any of this is happening.
Cedric, I need a new strategy.
Otherwise, I may have to accept the horrifying truth.
That Lucian Veilwood is untouchable.
Count Orlin Devereaux
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