0. What did your investigation uncover, Hubert?
1. It appears those who slither in the dark had nothing [cdb]to do with any of this.
2. This plot was hatched by Houses Riegan and Gloucester alone.
3. In other words, we know exactly where the idea to [cdb]encircle our troops came from.
4. Claude von Riegan, leader of the Alliance.
5. He is going to be a true thorn in our side now that he [cdb]is in charge.
6. Back when Duke Riegan had no clear heir, the lords [cdb]were busy maneuvering to be next in line.
7. Then Claude appeared in an instant and laid claim [cdb]to the seat of power.
8. We were hoping that would be enough to throw the Alliance into disarray, but he has done a remarkable [cdb]job of seizing the reins.
9. Feigning discord with Gloucester while they privately [cdb]schemed together was an especially nice touch.
10. Sadly, it seems we're facing a gifted tactician [cdb]as well as a skilled leader.
11. Yet for a tactician, he woefully underestimated Count Bergliez.
12. I say we finish his education. It is time Claude learns [cdb]the gulf between his power and the Empire's cannot [cdb]be bridged with a few clever tricks.