Black Book #1
The first recorded and documented Black Book in the International Council Intelligence Committee's archives.
Purpose
To absolve the Trimble House Potions Master of blame for the death of Melissa Noelle.
Document Structure
Publication Status
Private; filed
Legal status
Filed with the ICIC in autumn of 495.
Historical Details
Background
Melissa Noelle was pregnant with Lucio Hadleigh's bastard daughter, Liara Hadleigh in the spring of 495. Because Chereladi already had a legal heir, Athanaric Hadleigh-Trimble, many courtiers feared that the Noelle family, one of the major families among the chiche people, would try to make a play for Chereladi's throne. To protect the Hadleigh legacy, it was determined that Melissa Noelle should be either made to abort the child or murdered.
History
Melissa Noelle was found dead in her home in winter of 495, her newborn daughter half-frozen in the crib beside her. It was ruled death by exposure by the royal investigators and, when the child was found to be still alive, she was returned to Noelle family relatives to foster. Without the mother's statement on the parentage of the child, no claim for the throne could be made and the Noelle Family rescinded any rights regarding royal lineage for Liara in 496.
Public Reaction
This document, while on file with the International Counsel, is not available to the public. There are rumors among the Chiche families that Melissa was murdered, but they have been unable to establish enough proof to challenge the juggernaut of Hadleigh House.
Legacy
The chiche families are very wary of Chereladian nobility. Attempts at political exchange have been made over the years, but the families as a whole reject these overtures from the crown.
Type
Contract, Private
Medium
Vellum / Skin
Authoring Date
495
Authors
Signatories (Characters)
Signatories (Organizations)
Comments