Dear Mama and Papa,
I am sorry for the delay in responding, Olivier finally went where we can not follow. I followed the rituals and held his vigil. The items you sent were deeply appreciated.
Since the House has just left mourning, there is nothing happening here that is worthy of sending you. I will be made Second officially at the summer fete. The other Houses have been quiet for the most part, though something is definitely shifting in Cereus. I don’t know if you recall their late Dowayne from my prior letters, he was the opposite of Olivier in every way. The only reason Cereus survived is because we cannot allow them to fall, they are first among us after all. No one has seen Aliksandra, the new Dowayne, rumors have her knee-deep in House repair. Petrea is the Second, Mena met her a few weeks ago and has nothing but good things to say about her. It makes me breathe easier and feel more confident in the future of the Court to hear that Cereus will be restored.
I spoke to you before about the party at Dahlia and what transpired between
their Second and the Dauphin. It has been many months since then and they have still managed to keep whatever is between them (that kiss points to emotions) out of the public eye. I know that is in His Highness’s best interest, but I am admittedly confused by her silence amongst her peers. At the least, the Seconds and Dowaynes would aid them in whatever their plan is. Perhaps I have a completely Heliotrope mind, but it seems to me that the cause of our future King’s happiness in the eyes of Namaah is one of the noblest endeavors we could take on.
Word is that preparations are underway in the Palace to have the Dauphin crowned by Midwinter. There are people who still mourn the loss of his brother, but most know that time rolls forward without regard for our wishes. He was trained for different things, but the heart of the Royal family is known to be large and loyal, while their mind is quick and fair. Those facts are giving the people faith that he will be a just and kind King.
I am afraid that I have nothing more to write you about. Next missive, I will let you know how things are going here: I’ve heard from Bryony that Olivier’s son is plotting, a woman at the fountain yesterday said that Lord Montalban has returned, and I received word from the dye merchant that he will be delayed. I will be able to tell you how the letters he left are received and what has slithered towards our House.
Do not worry, I keep my dagger sharp,
All my love,
Loir