Lord Dysmas,



I apologize at my delay in a response. Would you believe me if I said that I had started your letter so many, many times but could not find the right words to express my self after your last letter? It’s true. I know that my words aren’t the right words to express my elation to hear of your commitment to continue writing with me. I…am glad the Gods blessed me with you for a friend such as yourself. You do not mind that I call you a friend, do you?



I did not know you had siblings. I appear to not be as well informed as you are. I admit I only pretended to study the family houses of our realm in my studies. I do regret that now. How many? Are they older or younger than yourself? I have Konstantinos but I also have so many cousins and we are all so close that it never feels like I’ve just one sibling but rather quite a few. It’s a bit of a blessing and a curse most of the time. Is it that way with your family too? Or is that simply unique to mine?



Your words about Tino. I… have never wanted to admit those even to myself but I am glad you said them. I believe that it’s possible that deep down, I needed to hear them. I need to have a bit of faith in him, in the man that he can and will become. I won’t lie… there are terrible influences lurking to corrupt him I fear. He will need the Gods on his side to stay strong against them. I hope… no. I believe that he will not become like them. There is so much pressure to sit on his shoulders. I fear he does not understand fully the consequences of bad choices yet. My family coddles him, far more than they ever did to me and I know that my mother feels the same way but there is not much that we can do other than pray that the Gods give him the wisdom.



It pleases me to hear that you took Thyella to the capital. While I have a difficult time envisioning a place unlike Taengea, I have complete faith in your mare. The Leventi stock known for being very adaptable. Whether in the rolling plains of Acharist or the crowded cliffsides of the Athenian capital, she will not fail you. She will thrive where you thrive so long as there is kind reassurance from you. I’ve no worries in those regards. Your charming words will no doubt bewitch her.



Mediation. That does sound very important. I believe your father is correct. Learning the arts of negotiation and diplomacy are skills we could all learn. You do not seem the sort to be easily intimidated. I envy you that. I have no doubt that you shall excel at whatever you put your mind too. You are sharp and charming, it’s just a matter of deciding to put your mind to it. Do you know the Leventi house motto? The worthy shall inherit. You are worthy, now it’s just a matter of putting your mind to your goals.



Warm Regards,

Lady E