jvj

Hi there,

This is my first time on this forum. Stumbled across it by accident.
Have been a fan of JV for years and am eagerly awaiting book 4. I have just began re-reading the series for the umpteenth time but I still have one outstanding frustration.

Why does Raif never admit to not killing anyone at Bluddroad massacre? He was there but was so sickened he turned away from his clan & Mace Blackhail. He has had so much suffering due to this, especially from Vaylo Bludd & clan. Am I missing something? I sort of understand that by not talking about it he doesn’t dishonour his clan, but it seems very unfair that he seems to be made almost solely to blame for it and has gained the notoriety instead of Mace.
His own clan I can sort of understand why they revile him (but don't agree) for breaking oath, but it seems they too hate him for what he did at the stovehouse, but WHY? He killed Bluddsmen, their enemy after all. I really, really can’t understand it & it’s driving me crazy.

Please help!

Hi there,

Got an answer for this after e-mailing

"Thanks for your message. The encounter with Bluddsmen at Duff's stovehouse put Raif in a no-win situation. He shamed his clan by admitting they were responsible for the slaughter on the Bluddroad and defended that slaughter to the entire Clanholds. By doing so he became, in Clan Bludd's eyes, the personification of the slaughter. He is the only Hailsmen they know for certain was there that day. Raif will never reveal he had no part in the slaughter as that would be breaking ranks with his clan and claiming moral superiority to them. To say, "They did it not me" would be impossible for him. His brother was there that day.

I hope this clears things up."


My query was probably crystal clear to everyone else, but me being a bit dense was stumbling a bit over it. Anyway, problem solved & I can now sleep again at night! (joke!)

Cheers