Petrea, Second of Cereus House, held out her sealed letter to the messenger bound for Tuberium. She handed him a gold coin. “You know where to deliver this? You’re certain? This is highly important that it reach its destination with all haste.” She spoke insistently, with almost an air of desperation.
The courier smiled. “My lady, I will put it in the gentleman’s hands myself. I know him well and will see he gets it as soon as I am able.”
He winked at her and grinned. “I am certain that any correspondence from you is of the utmost importance.”
He took her letter and placed it in his saddlebag. He patted the bag firmly.
“I shall protect this with my life!” he said with mock bravado, spurring his horse.
Petrea laughed and waved to the young man as he rode away.
My dearest Marco,
I cannot, at present consent to becoming your wife, much though the thought intrigues me. I offer you instead a counterproposal. As a sort of trial engagement, I propose that I join you on your next trade voyage wherever that may take you. I know not of your life, other than your stories, and should like to experience it for myself before making my decision.
I shall await your reply, and instructions as to the garments I should bring.
All my love,
Petrea
One week later an exhausted courier delivered a hastily scrawled letter to Cereus House.
My darling,
I will return within the week to collect you. Pack for Alba. I shall take care of everything else.
Yours,
Marco
Three days later, he arrived.
Want the backstory?
-
- Watch: Petrea’s Offer
- Read: Petrea’s future