My Dearest Cousin,

I am thankful for your letters. It is always wonderful to hear from another sober mind in a time of much turmoil and uncertainty.

I have heard word from your father. He is relieved to hear of your well-being, and while he remains somewhat perplexed by your leaving so swiftly, he appears to respect that it was on my wishes. He has asked for a letter in your own hand, to reassure him that all is well with you and that you are enjoying your time spend in my employ. I would not trouble you, knowing full well how busy you are, but I do not yet know you mind and heart as well as I would like to, and fear that an appropriate forgery could not be made by me in your stead. Perhaps next I see of you, you may indulge me in the baring of your soul, that I may not trouble you anymore with such petty correspondence.

In less titillating news, I have asked my advisers to seek council with your would-be suitor, Lord Evynwood, to see if a political engagement with him may be of benefit to us. So far they are having difficulty tracking him down. It appears he may be of less significance than perhaps he was letting on. I do not wish to accuse anyone of dishonesty, however, and will hold my words until I can look upon him face-to-face.

For the time being, it is to my satisfaction to keep you in my employ. I think there is a great deal of benefit that we could both have in each other’s company.

Should you be in need, you need only ask your dearest cousin.

With Love,

King Edward III, rightful ruler of England and France

Lady Ingrid,

You must be so weary from traveling already. You have gone so far and I fear you must have little answers yet. Call upon me if you need my help or guidance. I am always at your behest.

It seems poor Martin has further to fly these days. This, and your safety, troubles me more than the news you bring. I fear that I may have left you ill-equipped to deal with what you are now being asked to do. It’s a large and strange world full of terrible and strange things.

Still, I have heard stranger tales than these from my mother, who heard them from her father when he was alive and well and still living in Wallachia. Have you heard the tale of the Mountains of Carpathia? Perhaps I can regale you with it on some occasion, when we have cause to celebrate and a glass of wine.

Forgive me for rambling. I do not seek to bore you with such idle things.

Let me know that you are well when you can. I am always delighted to see Martin again, both because he is a delightful creature, and because I am delighted by the success of my pupils.

Your Loyal Servant,

Lord Raynald Evynwood