To Claudia Marque, Proprietor of the Marque Trade Consortium,

Your message finds me at a time of strategic reconsideration. The loss at Duskrun Ford is indeed a setback, but not an insurmountable one. I have no doubt that forces beyond your direct control were at play, and it is regrettable that such actions have complicated our shared interests.

Your proposal is intriguing. Yet, I must caution that alliances forged from necessity rather than mutual respect seldom hold. The Bogwood remains under my command, and while resources are always valuable, they are not a condition for my continued rule.

Renard Blackthorn's position remains precarious, and I would see his worth tested before casting him aside. Your insistence on his disavowal is noted, but decisions regarding my alliances are mine to make. Should Blackthorn falter or prove treacherous, you will have little need to press the matter further.

Nevertheless, I will consider the potential of Marque Trade support, contingent on favorable terms. My rule is not for sale, but neither am I blind to opportunities that may stabilize the region. If your intentions are genuine, then flexibility on your part would be wise.

Respectfully,
Valtharix the Scaled Tyrant
Lord of Bogwood