My dear friend and Lady,

I am most glad that you found humor in my jest about the recruits. This group was largely farm boys and children of the mines trying to find a different life. They were raw, but I think I have managed to beat discipline into them and drill them until they will not embarrass me in combat. Someday some of them might even display a modicum of real talent with a weapon, though that might be far fetched, at the least they should be able to maintain a phalanx and use the proper end of a spear.

A festival in Taengea with a fighting ring? I believe I was at that festival, the Dionysa? It was a most peculiar affair, but the freedom allowed for the women must have been exhilarating for you? In Colchis, we allow women to to join the military. They form their own units of archers and act in support to the infantry and calvary. Some of them are incredibly talented with their bows. I do have to agree with your handmaiden, you should have a guard or at least one amongst your group that can defend you from any vagrants you may encounter in your philanthropic actions. Not all people receive charity well.

As for Rene, I hope as well that she finds an appropriate partner and has a love filled and fruitful union. I do fear, however, that this partner may be the arts she devotes herself to. Let us hope that she finds a human companion she is equally compatible with. I do not think you a demon for begrudging her freedom, life is difficult when expectations are set for who you are to be and who you should marry, when your father can sell you for political gain. I too share a tinge of this jealousy, I wish that I was free to choose my own spouse with no limitations, but being born a commoner and scraping to gain status limits my choices as well.

I would hate to live in a place where gossips reigned and spied on everything. I am skilled at dispatching does I can see and those who would challenge me directly, not playing a game of lies and deceit likes snakes or spiders might. I assure you that should we be deployed, I will send you a letter informing you of such and send some while I am away as well. Perhaps that will put your mind at ease, I would hate for you to worry for my sake.

I am certain that someday all three of us will find the right person to be with, so worry not for me or Rene, and I shall try not to worry for the two of you. Until that day, I wish for your days to be joyous and your wine to be better than vinegar.

Your dear friend and Captain,

Alexandros