From Ariadne of Valeria To Lord John Grey, Heimdallhaus, Block One, House Three
Good Sir--
I was entirely pleased to discover your letter. You'll forgive me if in my haste to return it, my hand is not quite as formal or as pretty as you may be used to. I was taught to read and write by missionaries who favored function over fashion. For a while, I attempted to learn some calligraphy, but I think I must lack the patience for it. Always in a hurry to go from one thing to the next. A trait that made me the devious child in my family.
It was a large family, at that. I can't imagine what it must have been like, growing up with only one brother. I'd like to learn more about yours sometime, assuming it's not a sore subject. Although I haven't a noble bone in my body, I know that the issue of inheritance can be difficult in some noble families. Forgive me if I speak out of turn. One sees a lot, living in a palace.
I would also love to hear more about the army. I imagine it's very different from the one back home.
For what it's worth, I know how it feels to find yourself superfluous. I'm struggling with it here, although I've started a garden, which occupies some of my time. I'm sure you cannot possibly inhabit a role in life that's no longer necessary. Not as long as you have your family. But if you're ever looking for ways to fill your days here, try building something. The gods--particularly Honir--seem to like it when we do.
Written in plain, utilitarian handwriting. No seal, but left with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
To Lord John Grey, Heimdallhaus, Block One, House Three
Good Sir--
I was entirely pleased to discover your letter. You'll forgive me if in my haste to return it, my hand is not quite as formal or as pretty as you may be used to. I was taught to read and write by missionaries who favored function over fashion. For a while, I attempted to learn some calligraphy, but I think I must lack the patience for it. Always in a hurry to go from one thing to the next. A trait that made me the devious child in my family.
It was a large family, at that. I can't imagine what it must have been like, growing up with only one brother. I'd like to learn more about yours sometime, assuming it's not a sore subject. Although I haven't a noble bone in my body, I know that the issue of inheritance can be difficult in some noble families. Forgive me if I speak out of turn. One sees a lot, living in a palace.
I would also love to hear more about the army. I imagine it's very different from the one back home.
For what it's worth, I know how it feels to find yourself superfluous. I'm struggling with it here, although I've started a garden, which occupies some of my time. I'm sure you cannot possibly inhabit a role in life that's no longer necessary. Not as long as you have your family. But if you're ever looking for ways to fill your days here, try building something. The gods--particularly Honir--seem to like it when we do.
Sincerely,
Ariadne
Sigyn's Cottage