Arc 720, 10th of Ymiden
To: Yeva of Rharne.
From: Darius Baer.
Honey Bee,
The timing of your letter was impeccable! It always seems to brighten my mood when you're around, and bright trials have seemed few and far between as of late. Though I have no way of proving it, the morning of the trial it arrived, I was reading your previous letter and reflecting on simpler times: casinos and home baking and awards nights.
All of that seems so distant, all of a sudden, does it not?
I am flattered by your request! I do still enjoy woodworking, and I am always seeking to hone my skills. Your request sounds like quite the challenge, and I'm eager to see if I can create these dice. Such work will be a kind distraction, I'm sure.
I am saddened to learn of your nightmares, for I have experienced my own, where I am on a tightrope that is crumbling beneath my feet. I do hope they will fade. There have been nights where I have woken up in a cold sweat. I might have to take you up on your kind offer of assistance before I set sail.
I am sorry to hear that your friend is no longer in town to keep you company. These recent trials have been challenging to say the least, and though my home is much smaller than yours, I can relate to the feeling of loneliness. I have tried to busy myself, not only by helping survivors where I can, but also by spending time with Da. I know I am fortunate to have him so close, and I feel for you being so distant from your family, which has made me wonder if I can do something to help alleviate your feelings of isolation...
As you know, I will soon be leaving for Rharne. Before our time in Faldrass, I considered the siege at Storm's Edge to be a more dangerous place than Scalvoris, but I'm no longer convinced that this is the case. I had hoped to leave Da here while I sailed to your home city, delivering the supplies that have been requested by Faith.
But since the eruption, Da and I have talked about him coming with me. He assures me that his sea legs are fine, no matter how old I claim them to be! It will provide me with much peace of mind to know that he is safe, should there be another eruption, and I dare say I can still learn a few things off
the ancient mariner!
Yeva, would you consider joining us? Not only would you be safe if Faldrass were to blow its top again, but you could also visit your family in person. I could keep you company during the voyage, and you can even have your own cabin. Plus, I can assure you, there is no wider space than the ocean, with no walls to close in on you. I'm hoping it proves to be the tonic we need after being in such a terrifying enclosed space.
I understand you might wish to stay back to help the survivors. You have a kind heart and a healing hand, and I'm sure you'll be of much use here. But if you decide to join me, you'd be most welcome.
Sincerely, and ever hopeful for banana cake,
Dari.
