1st of Ymiden, 717
Celeste,
I am writing you to reassure you of my health, both mental and physical. I have recovered nicely and have full use of my limbs – a blessing previously taken for granted. Much of my time has been dedicated to my music. Unfortunately, I haven't had the time to write a song I'm happy with, as my mind is still a bit murky, but I am trying. In regards to your offer to play for your daughter, I have been learning to sing so that I may have something in common with her, but I must admit... It's a lot harder to pick up than piano. I hope she isn't too critical. Venora egos are fragile things, after all.
I'm afraid the rest of my leisure is being consumed by the King and my people. The barony I inherited is hardly a barony at all – just a patch of land on the coast. I think my father must think it will always remain that way, but he doesn't see what I see – potential. A sanctuary. Oh, Celeste, I have such great plans, it gives me hope for the future. I just hope I can live up to everyone's expectations and more so – my own.
Finally, I write you to gauge your interest in establishing a trade route between my barony and yours. As your friend, feel free to deny me and there shall be no hard feelings, but I imagine it could be mutually beneficial to both of us. I will aim to come visit you this season, however I will warn you that my presence has already been requested by an old companion, and will require me to travel across the seas once more. I bet you didn't realize you had competition, did you?
Rest assured, you're still my favorite. As proof, I want to include what would have been your wedding gift from me had you joined my family, as I'm not quite sure what to do with it now. I have no sisters, and no wife, and letting it collect dust feels wasteful. I recognize it is a bit overly extravagant and it is not my intention to anger your husband-to-be. If this is ill-timed, I trust your judgment. You always seem to know what to do – you're far more practical than myself.
I would be lying if I told you I didn't want you to like it, but I never was good with picking out these sorts of things.... I just want you to know how much I appreciate everything you've done for me. You're the only one who extended a hand when I had fallen.
Send my love to Lord Krome (but not too much),
Your favorite Venora