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[Marcus Draven]

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Over a month past...

Sitting in my office, I look over several reports. Gabriel has been quite busy scouting the lands, looking for a suitable location. Weeks passed in the blink of an eye, and we still were no closer. The lands under the Trammel sun were littered with various trade posts and I did not want to risk establishing a trade company within the fabled Gargoyle Queens lands so soon. It looked as if the strange lands of Malas would have to suffice, but where?

Suddenly, I pushed aside some papers and there it was. A notice from Gabriel that he recently saw a posting in the Holy City that there was a good amount of land for sale. After reading over the coordinates, I pick up a sextant and quickly find it on the map.

A valley within the mountain... I say is a dark hush tone

Thinking over it a little while I read the rest of Gabriels report. The lands were close enough to the Holy City, which has become a center for trade. Something seemed off, he went on to mention other things which immediately drew my attention. I had heard small rumors of what he wrote but nothing solid. I wondered if they knew yet of the Coven. Unlikely though, since we have yet to draw any attention and merely watched from the Gloom. And as it would appear our lands were far from their hunting grounds.

I called Alathea into my office as I had her look over the map and letter from Gabriel. She nodded and agreed its location was suitable to the needs of our front company in these lands. However, with this development, it was decided best to distance the Kindred for now and leave matters to several humans in my employ. They were soon dispatched to speak with those looking to sell the lands and agree upon a price.

[Marcus Draven]

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Thomas left later that day, a man that has worked unknowingly for me for some time now. He left under strict guidance and instruction. It took him nearly a week to travel to the mountain valley. I quietly kept to myself looking over several documents in the office. Preparations had to be made should this land come under our control. Another week pasted and at last a letter arrived at the castle.

Sir,

I am most pleased to deliver this message to you. After some deliberation with the mountain clan we have come to agree upon an amount. The price they agree to sell the lands to us is for 120,000,000 gold. Although this is a steep price, after seeing first hand the lands in question, I believe it will suit you nicely. Included are a few sketches of the mountain valley as well as the contract for such. If it is your desire to agree to this amount, you need only sign the contract and send it with a Currier to the holy city of Luna. I shall await your reply there. As instructed, if you agree to these terms, I shall withdraw the funds from your account and conduct the transaction with haste.

Your humble servant,
Thomas

A smile crossed my lips as I read over the letter. He was most skilled in negotiations. And he was right, the sum is great indeed but well worth it. I picked up a pen and dabbed in into the ink well. Quickly signing my alias signature upon the contract. Folding it, I set it aside and pull out another parchment to reply.

Thomas,
Well done indeed. I shall send your fee to your account in Trinsic, and send word to your family of your success and my gratitude. I eagerly await the conclusion of the arrangement and your swift return home to your family.

*Signed*
Your humble employer

Folding the letter, I drip some wax upon it and seal it. Setting it aside to be delivered in the morning by Currier. I set back in my chair thinking a moment. A valley in the northern mountain range of Luna.

Northridge... I mutter. It seemed a fitting name as any for a trade company.