Geminus,
Though I may not hold nearly as much influence as Morgeaux, my duty is owed to none aside from Magister Thraesus.
From the time he took his first toddling steps in his grandfather’s study to the moment his father so graciously bestowed the title unto him, I have remained his servant, his protector, and his guardian. When his father left on business, I was there. When his mother fell ill, I comforted him. His rise and his growth, all things these old eyes witnessed. I was the first of many he took from the old guard that set to organizing his estate.
I dare not answer the question you have so boldly posed, nor do I find it any business of yours to know it regardless. An accord was struck the day Lady Carmillia’s family approached with an offer of marriage and what agreement was struck between the Magister and his wife is for them to discuss.
I will not offer undue speculation, though I do believe I am well within my right to lay bare the truth you refuse to acknowledge: the Magister did his part for Carmillia. His role is fulfilled and she will likely reap the benefits until death.
Whom he lies with, what choices he makes in the face of those decisions, and what right you possess to demand such answers is clear and defined: business that doesn’t, and will never, belong to you. Heckle me about this subject once more and I’ll see to it that you’ll never utter a single ridiculous inquiry ever again, and yes,
Take that for a promise, dear Geminus.
– A Secret Missive Penned By the Lady Cybil Aquintas, Former Caretaker of Magister Thraesus, Addressed to the Seneschal of House Havarin
My love,
I held her gaze for so long, I could count the shining stars in her eyes and I knew immediately that they were yours. I told you then, the night I believe our gift came unto us, that I’d love her no matter whose face she possessed but her eyes were always guaranteed to be yours. She’s so small. So frail. I fear to put her down in case something harms her, but in the same breath I fear an inadvertent touch of mine will incur a scratch!
Her burbles are little more than that–a child’s vocalizations. Her curious gaze bores deep into my soul. My old mentor would say the universe dances in her eyes and I believe that. There’s no limitation to what’s inside her darling head. I envy that ability to wonder and discover the world so new.
I’ve heard talk amongst the house. Lady Cybil would prefer to thank you in person but I will pass her gratitude on nonetheless. I dare not repeat hearsay whispered by the staff but I am certain you will handle the situation with Lord Geminus with the same sure hands you’ve always been careful wielding. I cannot imagine your mother has been pleasant about the circumstances either.
I’ve named her Shehdri. It’s a name that has passed down my family since the beginning of life in Rivain. She was a warrior, a Dreamer. Her enemies never prospered against her and her name enough could repel evil seeking to drag her down. She died standing on her feet and her descendants still invoke her name as a form of protection. Her staff was cut from a dragon’s tooth.
I cannot wait to see you again. Think of us until the time comes to be by our sides. I love you.
– Letter Addressed to Magister Thraesus from Madame Adeya Djedan Ziani, 9:12 Dragon
