Epistolary Epic

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Alchymea’s Postal System

The easiest way to send a message in The Triad Nations is through the Alchymean Post. In lieu of addresses, most buildings (and even some ships!) have inscribed upon them a unique, magickally-imbued postal sigil. Certain elites who can afford to commission such a concentrated piece of enchantment even have their own personal postal sigils, which allow them to receive messages no matter where they travel.

The Alchymean Post is made up of a complex network of couriers. Some are humanoid and make their living by delivering messages and packages to a number of sigils on an assigned route. A small number of these humanoid couriers take up a life of adventure in order to deliver parcels to remote locations on potentially dangerous journeys. Fey-descended birds, like Renfry’s Red-Tailed Falcon Zeph, are also trained to hone in on the magickal signatures of postal sigils in order to deliver messages directly between individuals, or to carry them quickly over long distances.

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 73

Ciao, Khellas, sia danthe thurirl.

You have an arduous road ahead of you, so you may not have an answer for this question, but how long do you plan to stay in Mercuria? Perhaps I may be able to visit before the wedding. Hearing that you have finished the first leg of your journey brings me great relief. Even though I love the ocean, as well, it seems you have been sailing a long time. Really, I cannot blame you for being so ready to tread on nauk edar.

A future ruler should know these things. To be ignorant is to be weak. Of course, I appreciate your sentiment. How gracious of you.

Because you study Dwarven, perhaps you can help me translate this old poem I found. Until now, I had worried I would never decipher it. Runes were never my strong-suit. Normally I understand the spoken language very well, if I can read the thing aloud. Perhaps this is an archaic form of speaking? Alas, I have had no luck on my own. Give it a try, if you would. Eventually we may find its meaning together.

ᚨᛟᛁᛈᛃ ᛉᚲᚺᛊᛒᚹᚺ

ᚲᚢᚢᛒ ᛒᛊᚢᚺᛒᛉ

ᛁᚺᛟᛉᚱ ᛁᛊᛈᛉᚨᚢ ᛉᛟᚺᛗᚺᛚᛁ ᚾᚢᚾᛚᚨᚢᛈ

ᛟᚢᛒᚹᛚ ᚹᛚᛁᛉᚲᛚᚱ ᛏᛚᛁᛃᛒᛁᛈᚺ

ᚾᛚᚢᛒ ᛞᛒᛗ ᛊᛚᚨᚢᛃᛊᚢ

I have tried to keep in mind that certain consonant pairs we distinguish in Common are represented by the same rune in Dwarven, but it still seems like gibberish to me. Perhaps you will have better luck. Apologies for the odd request - if you are disinterested in such matters, please tell me. I have simply been puzzling over this conundrum for some time, and would appreciate a fresh perspective on it.

You come across as genuine, so I will not tease you for your flattery. I hope it is not often you must utilize your dexterity in battle, but many martial arts are like dances in themselves. You’ll be a natural, I’m sure.

I thank you for your comfort regarding my sister. I know my parents have their own ways of coping with her loss, but their grief is nearly silent. Sometimes it feels like my family would prefer not to think of Phely at all, we speak so rarely of her, but I know that none of us can forget - especially so long as I live. You are very insightful to guess the complexity of my relationship with mirrors. During something of a tantrum I had the palace stripped of them, but I soon realized I could not run from my reflection forever. 

It seems the life of a nomad is a lonely one. Do you fear being known, Khellas?

I suppose unconventional answers must come from unconventional people - I am not surprised by your desire to visit the Feywilds. It only speaks truth to the nature of the man I believe you to be.

I am thrilled by the prospect of receiving a gift from you, though I would remind you that you are under no obligation to send such a thing. If it would put you out in any way, I ask you please refrain. But, should you insist, I will include my personal postal sigil below.

I wonder if these journals strictly transmit words, or if their magick would allow for drawings. I am no artist, so I shan’t mar your page with an attempt, but if ever you wanted to try, I would love to see your work. My parents had me take up archery from a young age, but I have never fletched my own arrow. Nor have I much skill to show for my lessons, unfortunately.

I do not often hear of humans who worship draconic deities, but Her Beneficence is certainly worthy of it. What a mystery you are - writing you has been an excavation of my own, revealing treasures similarly precious.

There is no ingredient like hunger to elevate cuisine, but I am sure your stew was delicious all the same. Perhaps I will sound childish in saying so, but my favorite foods are desserts, canelés and butter tarts chief among them.

Are you a competitive person? What virtue do you consider overrated? Have you any pet peeves? What was your first kiss like?

Clax doege,

Renfry

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A Ferran Falcon

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV’s correspondence with their fiancé, Princet Orfhlaith Mic Féilim, via their personal falcon.

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497, Ixen 67

Highness,

I am so happy to have received your reply so soon. Outstanding that you gave Zeph some fish. We don't often get to give him such a treat.

Candidly, I must say your demeanor is refreshing. After I sent my letter, I was wrought with anxiety. Never had I considered that you would be so enthusiastic.

Where is your favorite place to go in your city? Even though I don't get to visit often, mine is a patisserie near the center of town. Regretfully, my parents are similarly overprotective. Entertaining the thought that anyone would even know my face on the street seems silly. Verily, though, I would rather not prove them right.

Our travelling party, from what I understand, will be relatively small, so as not to attract too much attention to our ship. Luckily, though, I will be accompanied by some of our best and brightest guards. There are rumors about pirates roaming the Unclaimed Sea. Do you think they have any merit?

Orfhlaith, you make Aurgyro sound perfectly idyllic. You have assuaged some of my fears about travelling to a new land. Of course, I was excited as well, but this whole ordeal is not one without it's stressors. Understand, please, that I mean no harm in saying this. Honestly, you have taken a weight off my shoulders simply by responding to my letter. Amazing how just a few words on a page can do that. Virtually any trouble can be solved with some effective communication, I suppose.

Ever since our engagement I have been wondering what kind of person you are. Are there any hobbies you enjoy? Perhaps I am being presumptuous, but you seem rather extroverted. Living as we do seems to require that trait. Anyway, I hope we can continue learning more about each other. Not that we won't have time to do so once we marry, but the sooner, the better.

Yours faithfully.

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 72

Vinult vur seveleth, Renfry!

Early this morning our ship arrived on the shores of Mercuria, and it could not have happened any sooner. As beautiful as the sea is, I am grateful to touch my feet to the earth once more. I intend to spend a day or two in town to get my bearings and stock up on supplies. It will be comforting to have a true bed to sleep on as well before venturing into the wilds.

As the saying goes: “livaij ui plyntor ini wer nocu”. It is simply impossible for many to know the truth of the past, when a great number of the victims have been destroyed or silenced. You are not at fault for the lack of knowledge. Every person we can tell of these atrocities is another person who joins our cause. Hopefully you will be interested in changing the tides with us. 

Ramble all you like, it is always a joy to hear one talk about their fires of inspiration. This sand-sailing sounds quite fun by your description. It is incredible what they are concocting with magick and competitive events these days. 

I should be so lucky to learn dance from a noble such as yourself. While I consider myself quite dexterous by way of hunting and fighting, I am unsure what amount of skill would translate to the ballroom floor. 

There is no absurdity in speaking with those beyond the veil. Whether or not they can hear us is not worth consideration. What truly matters is how it mends the wounds that are left from their loss. I am honored that you trust me with this sensitive subject and I take that to heart. I imagine it must be quite a complex experience seeing her face in the mirror, forgive me if this is a tactless assumption. 

Unfortunately I cannot say there are many people I have allowed close in my life, at least not within recent years. I have told you of my mother, who is the first to come to mind. I keep a handful of friends scattered about the nations, trustworthy folks who have helped me and I have returned the favor. None of them know very much about myself though, and that is alright.

Unconventional answers are the best there are, in my book. When the Capital is inevitably unearthed, it is my hope that you have every chance to visit. It would be a sight to behold, for sure! I’ll respond with my own unconventional answer: there is little I would not do to visit the plane of the Feywild just once. From legends it sounds as beautiful as it does dangerous.

There is not a problem with what details you would like to keep private of your journey. That is quite the trip! I am sure you will be well protected on your voyage, however I have a small item I would like to share with you just as an extra precaution. May I send you a parcel by raven? 

I enjoy illustrating in my free time, drawing the natural things around me as a way of keeping memories. I also quite enjoy fletching, there is no arrow that flies better than one you have created yourself. 

As far as my religious affiliations go I have reverence for many gods, perhaps most for Kronos and Tamara. I am not severely devout to any one god though.

This is a fun question! A difficult one though. I remember, many years ago, I had finished a long journey in the winter to the north of Aurgyro. I stopped at a tavern at the edge of Thuraldur where I was served the most incredible Auroch stew with freshly baked sourdough. Perhaps it was my haggard disposition, but I haven’t anything near as delicious since. Do you have a favorite food?

Douta,

Khellas

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A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 71

Khellas,

It is hard to explain, and sensitive information at present. I may require your assistance in the near future - I am sorry to say that my involvement with your quandary may not be as ihk bensvelk as I originally intended.

I find myself incensed to hear that there are so many displaced by a cause I thought noble. It seems this information is left out of the modern curriculum. Then again, why would a thing which makes us look so ugly be included?

Pardon my bitterness. I digress. 

The modern curriculum has also left out much in the way of the pronunciation of Vs'shtak, so I can only guess how badly my tongue butchers the language. I received high marks for composition and comprehension, though! Coi ui bensvelk ekess tepoha vi thurirl hefoc wux svaust renthisjic mishun vorel youwei.

Sand-sailing is mostly explained by its name, though the sport has seen a number of iterations over the years. Essentially, single-riders or two-person tandem teams stand upon a board with a sail attached, which allows you to surf over sandy dunes and plains. Because of this you may also hear it called “sand-surfing.” There is a similar sport where you use such an apparatus to sail over water, but I have not had the opportunity to try it more than a few times, thus I am not as skilled in this version. Sand-surfing in Ferran has also seen the addition of magickal effects which allow the board to hover slightly off the ground and provide propulsion even in windless conditions, though any official league has regulations regarding the enchantments that can be used. I could ramble about the subject for far too long, so I’ll stop before I get ahead of myself.

I dance whenever and wherever appropriate (though my mother might differ on the definition of the term in this context). There are many dances popular in Ferran which allow for an individual to do so by themselves. I generally prefer these, but I am no stranger to dancing with a partner, and thoroughly enjoy doing so. I would be happy to teach you a thing or two someday. I would bet anything you can pick it up quickly.

Yes, travelling by air is certainly colder than one would expect. Luckily, we have learned some very efficient methods for the insulation of airships. 

How serendipitous, I also speak Elvish and Dwarven. Celestial, though, I have no grasp of - I never took much of an interest in the sacred arts beyond what was required in my schooling. Just don’t tell my parents I’m anything but devout.

I agree with you that the puzzles left by the Lost Nation will not be solved without more cooperation among the Triad. I feel fortunate to be alive during a time of peace, and can only do my part to protect it.

I'll be sure never to cross your mother, she seems like a force to be reckoned with! I am glad to hear the two of you get along so well, and I wish her luck in her genealogical endeavors. 

So far you’ve crossed no boundaries with your questions, Khellas. Rest assured, I would let you know if you did. 

My first instinct is to tell you my sister Ophelya is my favorite person. Though she is no longer with us, in many ways she is still a part of my life. Her memory pushes me to be better, and technically I still get to see her, as we are twins. You already guessed that is who I was writing in my first entry; perhaps it is maladaptive for the living to address the dead as if they could respond, but grief is a strange creature which can only be tamed through strange means. You are the only one who knows of this habit I've developed. Who are the special people in your life?

As for goals, there are a number of diplomatic projects I hope to undertake over the next few years, but I shan’t bore you with details unless you find politics less dry than most.

I have a bit of an unconventional answer as to where I'd like to travel, since no one knows the location of my preferred destination: the Capital of the Lost Nation. Knowing what I do about the smaller cities that have been studied, I can only imagine the wonders lying in wait at the hub of those who came before us. Where would you go?

We will be sailing across the Unclaimed Sea - if my father had his way, he’d have us fly straight as an arrow from Stolits to Oírdoga with a veritable fleet of airships, but I’ve convinced him to let me treat the journey as a leisurely cruise. Out of an abundance of caution, many of the details are to be kept secret, so you will have to pardon me if I say no more about it.

Have you any hobbies, other than coming to the rescue of your friends? What of your religious affiliations? What is your favorite food? How much longer is your journey to Mercuria?

Dout thurirl,

Renfry

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 69

Dear Renfry, 

I am glad for Orfhlaith’s response, and that it has reassured you. While definitely intriguing, I won’t push you as to what that means. I would be interested, however, in what possibilities you may see for yourself now. Thank the gods we can spare the children.

I would have to concur that the Fates have played a part in this story of ours, as it is so rare to come upon such genuine company among friends, let alone strangers. 

Yes, the wilds of Mercuria are rife displaced with communities of native folk. While the ruins of Mercuria are still full of static magickal energy, they once were a buzzing hub of communication with the Fae realm. This is because the veil between our plane of existence and the plane of the Fae is exceptionally thin, thus the entire reason the Lost Nation had so many settlements in Mercuria. It is very rare now with the expanding excavations to find true Fae in Mercuria, even deep within the wilds. 

Once I have arrived and touched base I may very well ask a string or two be pulled. I appreciate very much your willingness to assist me with my task. Trexidor, my friend’s grandchild, will be humbled by your gracious offer as well I’m sure. 

I cannot bear to suppress my excitement any longer. It is so very refreshing to finally meet another who has studied the Draconic tongue! Tell me, do you practice Draconic speech as well or purely in writing? “Ekess renthisj voga xanalre ui ekess tepoha vi jiilral sepa”.

You will have to describe to me further this sand sailing, it sounds quite enjoyable. Sad to say I know very little of dancing, though I would be open to learning. You do quite a bit of dancing then? Is it in pairs always? Your parents sound lovely, regardless of the barriers you all must face. 

Preferably I enjoy traveling by land for very long journeys, the motion of the sea can be far too much at times though there is nothing to compare to travel upon the ocean. I have indeed had the chance to travel by air, it is exhilarating and much colder than expected. As I indicated earlier, I also enthusiastically know Draconic language, but I have also studied Elvish, Celestial, and Dwarven. Do you study any other languages? 

I have spent many years studying the Lost Nation, but alongside my studies I have also spent a considerable amount of time reading up on the historical relationships among the Triad Nations. It is my belief that the Lost Nation’s secrets will never truly be revealed so long as there is severe tension among the three remaining.

Ah, my mother, she is something else. Clever as a whip, and just as severe. She is most likely still kicking about somewhere. Were she not, I would have heard by now. I hope that does not leave the wrong impression, I love my mother dearly. We do not see each other often, though when we do it is as though no time has passed. I was raised with an immense well of love, and at the same time made to focus on my independence. Gods be with you if ever you dared cross her. Last I had heard of her, she was scouting bookshops in the north of Mercuria trying to find more information on the ancestry of certain metallic dragons that were known to once reside in and among the Triad Nations. 

Thank you for all of your inquiries, Princet. I hope it is not out of line to pose a few more questions your way. Do you have a favorite person in your life? What goals do you see yourself pursuing in the next few years? If you could travel to one place only, where would it be? In which manner will you be traveling to Aurgyro in the winter?

Yours,

Khellas

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A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 68

Dear Khellas,

Writing you has also brought me more than a little excitement, so the pleasure is all mine. And please, call me Renfry.

Orfhlaith’s response was encouraging. They seem quite lively. I’ve not yet directly asked if they want children, but at the risk of sounding cryptic I no longer think of it as an issue. Corresponding with the two of you has opened my eyes to a number of possibilities I once thought out-of-reach. Thank you for your part in that.

In spite of reason I find myself trusting you rather inherently. Perhaps it shows my hand too much that I would tell you so, and yet I feel no fear in doing it. I cannot help but wonder if my finding the counterpart to your journal was fated, somehow.

The need for caution regarding the politics among the Triad is not lost on me, I assure you. My assistance would be purely diplomatic - I cannot render aid which would result in bloodshed, lest we tear open the sutures of the wound between Ferran and Mercuria. However, I was unaware that Mercuria had an indigenous population. I have heard tales regarding the existence of Fair Folk in the Mercurian Wilds - am I to believe you know these as more fact than fiction?

I think it safe to assume the institution to which you refer is Ritmourth. Luckily for you, I know the Dean personally. He keeps me abreast of the latest findings regarding the Lost Nation. I also have ties to a number of senators who may be amenable to my calling in a favor if you seek an audience with the Mercurian Parliament. I cannot promise their sympathies to your friend’s plight, but I can at least promise their attention. You will have to do the brunt of the work, but perhaps the saying is true: “lexri re janikupilt loupon caexi.”

Thank you for entertaining my inquiries so candidly. I would love nothing more than to see the ruins I have read so much about, and to have a guide such as yourself would be a great honor.

In answer to your questions, I have a few things I do for fun: falconry, horseback riding, sand-sailing, and learning about the Lost Nation among them. But the thing I most enjoy, by far, is dancing. My relationship with my parents is one that makes up in love what it lacks in understanding. There are walls between us which none of us knows how to scale, thanks in part to our differing natures, but also to our shared hurts. The affection between us flows freely in its own way, though it often goes unspoken. We rely upon each other for strength. The wedding is set to take place during Pab, over Yule. I wonder if it will snow.

My turn: Do you prefer to travel by land or by sea? Have you ever had the chance to travel by air? Do you know any languages other than Common? Do you have any subjects you enjoy studying? Would you mind telling me more about your mother? She sounds wonderful.

Your inquisitive friend,

Renfry

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A Ferran Falcon

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV’s correspondence with their fiancé, Princet Orfhlaith Mic Féilim, via their personal falcon.

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497, Ixen 65

Dearest Renfry.

Of course it is so nice to hear from you. Your falcon made his way here and I can confirm he is a very good boy! Our chefs gave him what dried fish we had left in the cupboard. Unfortunately it wasn’t much this time, I’ll have something more prepared in the future!

With that being said, it’s nice to hear about a few of your favorite things. I should share with you a few of mine as well! Should I start with colors first? Heavens, why is it so difficult to think of your favorites in the moment you’re asked for them?

Though I don quite a bit of red clothing, I think my favorite color would be blue like the sky. On the other hand, I also quite like green.

When the weather permits, I love to ride into the city to mingle with my people. Even though my father doesn’t entirely approve, he knows he cannot stop me. Do you visit the people of your country? Of course it can be dangerous, but Papa has always sent along some protection. Renfry, I cannot wait for you to see our kingdom!

Will you be traveling with many people? I feel as though I’m constantly surrounded by an entourage. Life in the kingdom is so sheltered. Less exciting don’t you think? You probably have the same experience. Or are your parents any less of a bore? Usually mine are always busy with something and wish me to keep out of the way.

Rest assured, you will not regret your travels here! Even if they are stiff as bricks, I’ll make sure we have plenty of fun things to do. Venture out into the town or maybe wander in the vineyard? Only, will you be here with enough time to wander before the wedding? Lots of party planning is taking place, but it would be nice to spend time together before the big event! Time will tell, I suppose.

Yours Truly. Nic Féilim, Orfhlaith

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 65

Your Majesty,

At the risk of sounding too excitable, your letters have been the highlight of my journey west, so I must thank you for taking such interest in exchanging words with me. 

I am grateful to hear I could encourage you to reach out to your fiancé, you will have to tell me their reaction. Within reason of course, I don’t expect you to share every detail. I hope their response is swift and positive.

Regarding my friend in Mercuria, I appreciate the utmost caution when approaching their situation. Tensions are high right now, both among the Triad Nations and within them. My friend’s grandchild belongs to a people native to Mercuria. Some time ago, while my friend was still alive, her people’s home in the ruins of Mercuria was seized for magickal and scholarly pursuits by the Mercurian kingdom. They were forced to retreat into the forests to make new homes, and now it seems that one of the largest scholastic institutions in Mercuria is seeking to expand their excavations. My hope is to gather a guard to protect their people while we seek a treaty with the Mercurian kingdom.

As for your questions:

I have been to all three Triad Nations, though I have hardly seen everything each one has to offer. I have been outside, but much of that memory is lost to me as I was very young at the time.

I would have to say the ruins of Mercuria are the most wildly beautiful place I have ever been. If you have any interest in magick, or seeing a civilization completely reclaimed by nature I highly recommend visiting! Perhaps I can guide you there one day. 

I was born in the mountains north of the Triad Nations known as the Serpent’s Spine. My mother and I traveled frequently in my youth as she had a drive to better the people around her. She taught me everything I know about the history of these lands and their people. I suppose I inherited that from her.

Not every venture I take is of great danger, and I am uncertain that I would call myself a mercenary. I’m just a man who seeks to learn from history and protect those who need it. 

I appreciate the fairness, your highness. What is your favorite thing to do purely for the enjoyment of it? Do you have a good relationship with your parents? When is your wedding to take place?

It is always good to keep a curious mind. 

Take care, Princet,

Khellas

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 64

Khellas,

Oh, humor abounds here in the palace. Raucous with laughter. Never a dull moment.

Since you mention my betrothed, I’ll have you know it was in no small part to your encouragement that I’ve written a very straightforward letter to Orfhlaith. I feel there is no way to avoid the sense of awkwardness which accompanied the act - not until we get to know each other better, at least - but I feel bolstered by having extended a hand to them.

How poetic, “a plaything of Kronos.” I’ll have to think on that further - I usually think of time as an inexorable force: an army of moments marching ever forward into the unknown. Your version is much less dreary a sentiment.

Humility may be a virtue, but please do not insult my new friend by selling him so short. No one should be considered “of little importance,” especially a man of such noble intentions. Tell me more about this trouble and perhaps I can be of some assistance.

Other things you can tell me about, now that I’ve had more time to compile a list:

Have you been to all three of the Triad Nations? Have you ever left?

Where is the most beautiful place you have visited?

From where did my nomadic friend originate?

Should I believe you some kind of benevolent mercenary, since you intend to save your friend’s grandchild’s home? Do you often put yourself in danger for the sake of others this way?

Hopefully I’ve crossed no boundaries in asking so many questions at once, but you did call yourself an open book, and I’ve never been one to pass over a well-written tale. A sense of fairness pushes me to offer some answers of my own, should you have any questions for me.

Curiously, Princet Renfry Charmonte IV

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A Ferran Falcon

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV’s correspondence with their fiancé, Princet Orfhlaith Mic Féilim, via their personal falcon.

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497, Ixen 63

Your Highness,

Now that we have been officially engaged I thought it would be prudent for us to exchange correspondence. I would like to learn more about you, and through doing so establish a foundation for our relationship before we are to be wed.

Please, tell me about yourself. By way of prompting, here is a little about me that you may not already know:

My favorite colors are yellow and green. Perhaps saying so is a bit silly, but I admit I feel a little stiff simply listing facts about myself. 

I enjoy parties of all occasions and sizes, and when appropriate you will likely find me dancing at any such event. 

I hatched the red-tailed falcon that has made its way to you with this letter, and had a hand in his training, though I cannot claim to be responsible for the full extent of his cleverness. His name is Zeph, after the West Wind, and I care for him deeply. I know you will show him kindness, but perhaps I could convince you to provide him an extra treat as a reward for his long journey. I think you’ll find he is a very good boy.

I find myself fascinated by the ocean. It is rare that I have been able to visit the shore, and even rarer that I have had the opportunity to go sailing, but the vastness of the sea is both a mystery and a comfort. For me, the opportunity to undertake the journey to Aurgyro is an exciting one.

I hope this is an acceptable starting point for a conversation between the two of us. I look forward to learning more about you over the coming months.

Warmly,

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV

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A Ferran Falcon

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV’s correspondence with their fiancé, Princet Orfhlaith Mic Féilim, via their personal falcon.

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

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497, Ixen 61

Your Majesty,

I find it quite charming you felt the need to rewrite to me as many times. Truly I am someone of little importance to a monarch. Worry not, I will not let the flattery go to my head. There is no apology needed for filling these pages, your highness. Making a new acquaintance is far more interesting than any plan I may have had for this old book. Though I should say I never intended to cause you any embarrassment, and for that I sorely apologize.

Am I to understand there isn’t much room for humor beyond the walls of the castle then? Sounds dreadful! I pray for your sake that Princet Orfhlaith of Aurgyro is as fun at parties as you seem to be.

In regards to correspondence with your betrothed, perhaps they would appreciate a straightforward approach. I imagine they may feel their life is just as out of their control as you feel is yours.

Perhaps it was foolish of me to address you as young. It is just that my fifty years as a human feels quite long compared to yours as an ageless elf. I suppose it matters not, time as we know it is merely a plaything of Kronos. You can address me however you like, Princet, but he, him, and his pronouns are preferred. You need not address me with any honorifics. If you would like, you may call me just “Khellas”.

Concerning my place of residence, I’m afraid I don’t have a straight answer for you. I have been traveling from place to place for some time and never staying long. As I write this I am currently venturing from Aurgyro to Mercuria to assist an old friend’s grandchild. Their home is currently being threatened with destruction and I intend to assist them with assembling a guard to defend it.

You may ask as many questions as your heart desires, though I cannot promise my answers will be very exciting. For you, I am an open book (wordplay intended).

Your friend, Khellas Foxhollow

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The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

[All Entries]

[epistolaryepic]

497, Ixen 60

Esteemed Mr./Ms./Mrs./Mx. Foxhollow,

My desk is now littered with a number of attempted responses to your unexpected reply. I must admit, I find myself embarrassed that you have effectively read my diary, but if what you say is true, then I understand this intrusion was not intentional. Further inspection of this journal does indicate the presence of a rather strong evocation spell, which supports your claim.  I have heard of magickal items such as these, but it is indeed a novelty to be in possession of one. I apologize if you had any intentions for your journal other than corresponding with me, but it seems we are stuck with each others’ ink in our pages.

It is refreshing that someone would make a joke at my expense for once - those around me are often not so bold to try. Don’t worry, I take no offense. As for my wits, I have found that when a situation is outside your control, it’s better to laugh than to despair. Or, at least, I’ve found it’s much more fun at parties. 

Your suggestion is probably the best course of action. I have considered writing Orfhlaith, but if I am being honest I am unsure of where to start.

“Dear Betrothed, I hope this letter finds you well. Please tell me everything about you so I may mentally prepare to spend the rest of our lives together.”

What an introduction.

On a similar note, I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage, Khellas - you seem to know considerably more about me than I do about you. As of now I know only your name, and that you have excellent penmanship. However, you may have betrayed yourself by calling me young - am I to assume you are so much older than my 47 years? Do you reside in Ferran, or is the magick between our journals strong enough to cross international borders? With what pronouns shall I address you?

I have many questions, my mysterious new friend. Alas, I have run out of time to interview you - for now. Consider yourself lucky; my examination will be thorough.

I hope to have your reply soon,

Princet Renfry Charmonte IV

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The Calendar of Alchymea

The world of The Triad Nations takes 365 days to travel around its central star. The Alchymean Calendar is a celestial one, and a holdover from the era of The Lost Nation. About 91 days comprises each of the four seasons, though the actual number of days is dependent on each solstice or equinox, upon which the new season begins. 

The first season of the year is Thrae - Air. A time of lofty ideals, of blooms and temperate weather as the world shakes off the cold.

The second season is Ixen - Fire. A time of passion, of lush greenery, of heat that can either wilt or invigorate.

The third is Edar - Earth. A time of harvest, of falling leaves, of transformation as the world winds down.

The fourth and final season is Pab - Water. A time of rest, of contemplation and reflection as the world turns colder, with the promise of renewal just on the horizon.

Ferran is a nation in a desert, so it does not see as much seasonal change as Mercuria or Aurgyro, but Renfry’s first entry into The Journals of Sending is dated as the fifty-eighth day of Ixen, a little more than halfway through the hot season. The year is 497 AC - a year estimated around the Cataclysm which wiped out The Lost Nation. As such, the standard for writing that date is as such: 

497, Ixen 58 or 497/I/58

[epistolaryepic]

The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

[All Entries]

[epistolaryepic]

497, Ixen 59

Young Highness,

I am not one to be dishonest. I am sorry to disappoint, but I am not your late sister, and I apologize if my response raised a false hope even for a moment.  It seems you and I may have two journals of linked magickal effects. 

I understand that my response may be unwanted, however you seem to be in a very unique predicament. I wonder, have you thought of writing to Orfhlaith? It could be worthwhile to reach out before you are wed. You could perhaps even get an idea of whether they will want children or not. Pardon, I mean no harm by my jest.

I should say, I am impressed by your humorous disposition to your circumstance. It’s perfectly draconian that you must live your life under the watch of others, even behind your own chamber doors. I hope it isn’t prying to ask how you manage to keep your wits about you.

I’m sure it isn’t easy.

I hope to hear once more from you, though I would understand if you were turned away by this unexpected response.

Godspeed Princet,

Khellas Foxhollow

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[epistolaryepic]

The Journals of Sending

A pair of inconspicuous journals inextricably and magickally linked.

[All Entries]

[epistolaryepic]

497, Ixen 58

Dear Phely,

My fate is sealed. 

Forgive the dramatics. My engagement to Orfhlaith was made official today. Father couldn’t be happier, but I don’t know how to feel. It is unlikely we will meet before the day we are wed, considering the journey. And you know me - I’m not one to impose. What is there to do, except put on a brave face and hope for the best? I know you would.

I miss you.

Harpinia escorted me into the city today. You would have been proud of my attempts to lose her, but alas, they were fruitless. I suppose that’s why father hired her - it certainly wasn’t for her radiant personality. She did let me visit our favorite patisserie on the way home, though, so she may finally be warming up to me! I also found this beautiful journal at the market. I couldn’t resist, knowing how much you would love it.

Sometimes I like to pretend you’re off on a great adventure somewhere. That instead of writing in a journal these are actually letters I’ve been sending to you, and your replies just keep getting tangled in the post. Isn’t that silly? We both know I’m the adventurous one. 

Harpinia is going to wonder what I could possibly be laughing at in an empty room. Oh well. Maybe some of my mirth will rub off on her one day.

Sorry to circle back to the engagement, but I’m afraid it’s all I can think about at the moment. What if I’m shipped all the way to Aurgyro and I never see Ferran again? What if we have nothing in common? What if we hate each other? Gods above, what if they want children?

I don’t know what to do, Phely. I really could use some advice.

Mother is calling. She wants my help planning a ball in celebration of the engagement - which you know just means she wants me to nod and smile at all her stylistic choices. I think she might be as anxious as I am, though, so I’ll let her have this. She does throw the best parties. I’ll write again soon.

All my love,

Renfry

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