Ilyia,

It was a pleasant surprise to receive your letter. Too often perhaps, I expect that my age will keep people from taking me seriously. Things are going well I suppose, although it would be a stretch to claim that I have been keeping myself out of trouble. (Haha!)

My return to Brunnhold was somewhat eventful. Before leaving Vienda proper I encountered some other students who were in town for the Circus. I am certain you've heard something about it by now. Several students decided to visit the Circus and miss class the following day. I am glad I returned in a more timely manner – even if it meant missing the show.

I have witnessed a second diablerie, as well as the death of a second passive at the University. This time it was not a violent death. However it was still something of a scandal as the poor woman died while giving birth. I have been helping out with the infant's care. ( Stop laughing! I have my reasons for wanting to see if I have fatherly instincts. )

Currently I am working on a project in the East Garden. I cannot tell you more, but it should make for an eventful story someday.

Now I must go and see about fencing training, as I have decided to take your advice in that regard. A human I met in Vienda, a doctor, suggested that military training might do me some good, so perhaps the fencing will lead me to contacts with more knowledge of such things.

Stay well – and skritch Spondola for me!

Frederick Vespasian

Hunter,

You have a fine hand for illustrations! I'm afraid, though, you were far too kind with my image, I'm not at all that lovely. But far from my place is to critique you; my drawing skills are comparable to Spondola's!

I'm sorry to hear about your recent accounts with death. Passives at Brunnhold are in a regrettable spot, as our brothers and sisters denied the gift we take for granted. The passing of a mother is even sadder; I wouldn't dare laugh at so admirable an act on your part. Helping care for the child speaks of your good nature, and will. Babys are difficult to deal with.

Much luck to you on that project! I was a fan of the East Garden when I was a student, though some nasty business was heard to happen there. I won't elucidate, but I'll say this; be careful. You're more capable than most students, but I'd be terribly upset should you get hurt there. Much rather you get hurt on my turf where I might be of some use. And yes! Go train! Become the best you can be. The military might even be better than the Seventen for you. See the world. Who knows, should things become too-- well, there might be reason for me to leave Anaxas proper.

Spondola misses you! I can tell, you made a good imprint on him.

Things here have been difficult of late. Along side a never-ending cold, I find myself bogged down by work, dealing with the vacuum evicting the wicks has caused. I have no hope of things getting any easier, and I'd almost bet that I'm going to have more work to do wit each coming day.

There is also a dinner party that promises to be just as trying, with many of my colleagues. I fear that wine will be my only comfort come midnight. My mother, however, is thrilled at the prospect as mothers often are when their daughters dress in finery and pretend to be amused by anecdotes. That's a story for another time, anyway. Study hard, kiddo, and keep safe!

~Ilyia