THE 15TH ACCOUNT: JACOB'S TROUBLES 13

Dear Jacob,

Glad tidings! My prayers were always of your good health and safe return to Fildas. I miss you terribly. Not a day has gone by that I do not think of you and wish that you were here with me during these trying times.

Last month, my half-brother, the former Crown Prince Hendrick was involved in a scandalous act with one of his eunuchs. Father could not believe it. WE could not believe it. Prince Hendrick swore that it wasn't true but the evidence was not to his favor and he was seen in a very compromising position with the eunuch.

The House of Lords appealed that Prince Hendrick be stripped of his title, Crown Prince, and be executed to pay for the shame he brought to the name Daragiel. Father, though not wanting to do it, agreed to the first condition but negotiated that he be exiled instead.