Letter #5: From Delphina

16^th of November

Cassandra,

           The last few days have been such a whirlwind it’s been hard to find time to write. It isn’t at all true what Lord Fairbairn said about Resonia Academy—aside from the academics, there is plenty to do… so long as you go looking for it, and I am not going to ignore this great opportunity put before me. The quality of the education here is vastly superior than anything I’ve run across back home, and I must say despite being very rigorous academically, the classes are fascinating and I’ve discovered a new love for learning. I could practically drink it all up in one sitting if I were able.

           The soldiers left yesterday, and I was very sad to see them go. The soldiers were of the acquaintance of a family by the name of Propina, whom they introduced me to. They are all very nice, and their daughter, Mala, attends the academy as well. While not nobility, they are considerably well off, and held a ball in honor of The Celestra before the soldiers were to leave. Naturally, I was invited upon the insistence of everyone, and I could not refuse such a generous invitation.

           I can’t remember the last time I was invited to a ball, so I was a little concerned that I would be out of place. I wasn’t sure as to the fashion in Resonia, and so I went wearing the best dress I could find in my belongings. I shouldn’t have been so concerned, but given that this was the first real introduction I had into Resonian society, I wanted to put my best foot forward, especially since dancing is one of the few skills I’ve honed well. While my dress was a little out of place, I was still complimented as most of the guests had not visited Cellen, and simply believed that it was the fashion there. I shall quickly make certain that no one knows by spending some of my pocket money to have a proper Resonian dress of the latest fashion made as soon as I possibly can, for one never knows when another ball might occur.

           The soldiers were quite as charming as they were before, and I was able to see them in full military regalia, which was quite a treat. I have a new fascination for men in uniform, and I shall certainly take the opportunity to gaze upon any that cross my path. I danced almost every dance with a different gentleman, simply because so many asked, and I was a little saddened that there weren’t more dances available, because one or two came back to try for a second, but my dance card was full. I did get the opportunity to dance with Liam, and we briefly discussed how I was finding Resonia and I mentioned our letters back and forth. Liam asked after your well-being, so I told him that you were well, if not busy, and he asked me to send his best regards. He seemed to hold you in high esteem, Cassandra, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he calls upon you when he is next at his family’s home in Lyndar, though that may not be for some time.

           Still no word on my mysterious guardian, but I believe that your hunches may be correct in believing that Frehtanci’s connections may be where Rasmus became acquainted with him, but even for a friend of Rasmus, the considerations he has shown to a lady in a most unfortunate situation is curious. I can only assume that he wishes me to be out in society, perhaps to see me properly taken care of. I am beginning to believe that there might be a blood debt involved in this situation. There were times when I noticed Rasmus glaze over certain details in the stories that he told, not to mention that he seemed almost secretive about certain things in his travels under the tutelage of Frehtanci. I hope that if it is a blood debt that this man had for my brother, that it ends with that and does not cause any problems. I am beginning to like the society I am keeping, and while I have always wanted a little adventure, it worries me as to what sort of trouble a blood debt could bring up. It is still some time before my guardian arrives, so I suppose that is something I may worry about in the future.

           With the soldiers gone, there is little left for me to do other than to occupy myself with what the academy has to offer. Mala is a sweet girl with a personality I can’t quite put my finger on. At times, she seems almost timid and docile, especially in public, but when she is among friends she is daring and exciting. I believe she puts on the face for the public in hopes of making a good match, and I do not envy her. In regards to certain relations between your mother and the good people of Cellen, I will see your wager on the third lover and double our original amount. 10 GCs says that she will find her third lover on New Years. It is a risky bet, but it is an exciting one and I am feeling quite daring.

Thinking of you,

Delphina