I see your half sister Taala found your journal and has written in it, I shall have to hide it more carefully in future. Pay no mind to the slanderous words she said about Blince and The Grey Warden, they are both good men.
I am vexed at her appraisal of Hyrien. It is true that Hyrien and I have exchanged bitter words in the past, but I have forgiven her everything. Hyrien, is your father's greatest ally, she serves him and the Dawn with unquestionable loyalty just as I did, only not as well as she did. I have always known he held her in higher regard than I, and rightly so for that is of no consequence now. She would dismiss these compliments with the wave of her hand. She is a formidable woman and I hold her very dear, though she would never thank me for such sentiment.
Forgive me son, I did not put quill to page to speak of anyone other than Taala, having discovered her imposition I should take her to task for it with the sternest of warnings, but I have not the heart for she has suffered much of late, and in truth I have grown fond of her, and this fondness did not come to my notice until it was feared she was dead.
Your sister is a wayward one, she is as cold as stone and her tongue is as sharp as her blade and as quick as her bow, but I have looked upon her and smiled when I have caught her speaking nonsense and sentimental words to you. She crawls about the floor with you, cuddles you to her and allows you to tug upon her fiery red hair. The two of you will become great friends, of that I'm sure. Woe betide anyone to get in between the two of you!
I do not wish to end this on a dour note, but Taala was taken captive recently. Word is, her capture was to send a message to your Father. He has not yet shown his hand in response, if indeed he does, but it has given me cause to worry that someone may come after you too. It is a relief to me that Deredan is here and will protect you, as will I, but I think, until this matter is drawn to a close, perhaps I will ask your father if we may take you to Ered Luin.
Your half sister Taala
