Lady Evangelina,

My letters are arriving later and later, it seems. Try not to miss my words so much that it causes distress or grief and please know I think of you often and moreso the longer I take to reply. It is, as you say, the fondness that grows the further the time that passes in the distance that we’re apart. Rest assured I will not allow your letters to go response-less, even if time is not on my side.

I am curious what experience you have with the Athenian culture outside of our interactions with one another? I wish you might visit me here in Athenia one day so I may show you it is not so austere as you make it sound. And if it is not something I can disprove, then at least you can bring some of your Taengean flair into my home that my existence within it might be less boring. I am not the greatest example of what Athenia is truly like, it would be my honor to give you tour of Magnestis and the capital -- if such a thing would bring you delight. If not, know I will take no offense.

As someone who has met “The Girl On Fire” in person, I can say with certainty the bards do not over embellish your beauty and spirit, and my own retelling falls quite flat by comparison. But, I am glad that my version pleases you. I am no poet or great writer, but I must admit you inspire words from me I’ve never before thought to use.

I do not believe in coincidences. Us meeting was clearly an act of the Fates, but more than that, I am glad for the fact it was, for your friendship is something I value and treasure. If the Fates will allow it, it is something I very much wish to build long into our lives regardless of political or logistical factors. I have learned much of you, your family, and Taengea through our communications, and I admit I feel as though I can hide nothing from you -- nor do I want to. Does that make sense? Perhaps not. Suffice it to say your letters, as my friend, bring me great joy.

The spring is behind us now, and I will bring my presence to Taengea’s shores in the coming month. My father will not be joining me, as I have elected to travel for my own selfish reasons. I want to see you. And Tino as well. (And your mother and father, of course.) It is unlikely I will send another letter before my arrival in Acharist next month, but if there is anything I should know before I arrive or anything you would like me to bring with me, please let me know in your next correspondence to me. I’d prefer not to make a complete fool of myself in front of your parents.

I look forward to our time together,

Lord Dysmas