Arri- September 30, 2004

September 30, 2004
Dear Keish,

Why do plants need light to grow? You can take a plant and a mouse and put them in a jar in the light. The mouse breathes out one kind of air that the plant breathes it in, and the plant breaths out the kind of air that the mouse breathes in, so they keep each other alive. But if you put the jar in the dark, the mouse dies, because the plant quits breathing out. If you leave the jar in the dark long enough, the plant dies too, even if you take the lid off so it has enough air. Why is that?
I love biology. It’s full of odd things that no one can explain. Plants and animals are made out of things called cells, and those cells are kind of like animals themselves. They need food and water. They come in different kinds. You have to use a microscope to see them. Even then they’re so small you can’t see much. Most of our equipment was imported from Iconei. I can see why Duke Tulson and Clara were so keen to visit there. Aegolius comes from a nation of inventors.
In literature we are reading ancient ballads of battles. Dr. Freyvogel has assured me that we will read some love ballads too. I’m honestly not sure what part of the curriculum he changed. The language is very hard to understand, rather like the story of the two Damars that accidentally stole the dragon egg. You find yourself wondering how much of the story is true and how much is fiction. We had a lecture on that. With regard to these old battles, no one is sure.
I asked a question in algebra today. Most of the time I stay quiet in my classes. If I venture to ask a question all heads turn to me and stare. Dr. Ecrue generally does not notice when my hand is up, so usually I have Gordo ask my question for me. I can’t really say for sure that he is ignoring me. He frequently fails to notice raised hands anywhere in the classroom. Gordo is brave enough to wave both hands vigorously, for several minutes if necessary. I think he is used to teachers paying special attention to him.
So I asked a question in algebra and Dr. Kondamuri explained, but I didn’t understand his explanation and asked another question. I didn’t mean to, but it seemed that he was insulted. He gave some more explanation and finally I understood, but after class he drew me aside.
“Miss Etautca, we really must find you a tutor,” he said, “I know you require extra help with this subject, but I am limited in how much I can give during class. We may not cover all the material if you ask too many questions.”
“Sorry,” I said, embarrassed. But at the same time, something seemed unfair. I’ve only asked a couple other questions this term and I don’t feel any need for a tutor. Other students have asked many more. Does he recommend tutors to them too?
“Miss Etautca asked the very same questions I was going to ask.” I turned, startled, to see a young man standing behind me.
“Well,” said Dr. Kondamuri, frowning, “I’m glad you got your answers.”
“Your explanation was most helpful, thank you,” the young man said.
Dr. Kondamuri smiled.
The young man turned and walked back out of the classroom. I thanked Dr. Kondamuri awkwardly and then left. I found the young man waiting for me.
“I apologize for interrupting you earlier, but Kondamuri can be insufferably arrogant. Your questions are always intelligent and worth asking. Allow me to introduce myself,” he said formally, “I am Master Donald Allbox.”
An Allbox. I’d met a few of them at parties although I couldn’t remember anyone specific.
“Pleased to meet you,” I said.
“May I escort you to your next class?” he asked. He was tall and muscular with dark straight hair in a very fashionable cut. Actually, his whole outfit reminded me of something Mendel might wear.
My classes were done for the day, so he escorted me to the stables where he complimented Sprigs and wished me a good weekend. I was glad to have met him.
Carpentry began as a disaster. I really am not strong enough. I nearly dropped a saw on my leg. The professor has given me permission to use any magic that doesn’t interfere with my design. Brynn was able to teach me a spell for making things lighter. However, the table I am making is getting increasingly shorter as I try to make the legs match in length. I suppose it will make a good coffee table. Hopefully.
Master Ujifil continues to insist on the awareness exercises. However, he has added a book about beneficial herbs for me to study. He will test me when I am ready to take the test. Unlike my college professors, Master Ujifil detests deadlines.

That is sad about Caden Viteri’s sister. It seems like he needs something to occupy his time so that he doesn’t dwell on sad things. Maybe self-defense lessons with Jace would be good.
Mendel is very excited about the puppy. He is already thinking about names, even though he doesn’t know if it’s a boy or a girl. So far he is debating between Spot and Lexus.
I’m sure Zest will like having a new puppy around. She will have someone to play with. Since it’s a mixed breed, you will have to send me a sketch so I can get the idea of it.

October 5th
Master Gordan Calibri proposed to Taty today. I suppose Jace will get a very long letter. She’s in a state of shock. Of course she can’t accept. First of all, she isn’t in love with him, and didn’t even realize he was courting her. Second, sixteen is too young for marriage, even if it does happen once in a while. She doesn’t want to hurt his feelings, but she doesn’t want to marry him. She’s been in counsel with Lady Pren on how to handle the situation all evening. Sir Pren is pacing the floor and calling Master Calibri all sorts of names under his breath. Kestrel has decided this is all some new game and is hiding behind doors and pouncing on Sir Pren whenever he walks by. She’s managed to startle him out of deep thought at least twice. Cook is making Taty’s favorite dessert for comfort. Unfortunately, everyone knows. He came to her window and sang his proposal very loudly. It was a beautiful song and Master Calibri has a fine voice. He and Taty have sung several duets together at parties. I feel bad for him in some ways, but I don’t understand why he thought it was a good idea to propose.

October 7th
Master Cory Gray sent an invitation to the symphony and Taty declined. She says that she doesn’t want to go anywhere with any young men. She’s too young. I told her that not all young men are looking for marriage. She says until she figures out how to avoid the ones that are she isn’t going out anymore. I don’t know what to do.

October 8th
Miss Minn came to call today. She proposed that we all go to the symphony, no gentlemen allowed. Taty liked that idea. It hadn’t occurred to her (or me either) that it was possible to attend artistic events without being invited by a gentlemen. I’m just as happy as she is to learn this isn’t so. We invited Lady Hiro, Lady Pren, and Gretel to go with us. It should be a lot of fun.

October 12th
The symphony was beautiful. Taty is in high spirits. Miss Minn knows several of the musicians and she arranged for us to meet them, including Lady Talbot, a very accomplished harpist. Lady Talbot invited us all to a party and said that Taty may perform if she wishes. She has heard about Taty’s singing talent from Miss Minn and would like to hear for herself. Taty was in raptures the rest of the evening. Today she accepted an invitation from Masters Cory and Beagan for the two of us to attend a party at Mrs. Rania Brio’s townhouse. Usually Taty and I each get a separate invitation, but this time the one invitation was addressed to us both. I think Taty is feeling much better. We haven’t heard or seen Master Calibri since she refused him.
My midterm exams are tomorrow, so I have to end this letter. I want to go over my biology notes again. There’s so much to remember. I’m still not sure what Dr. Freyvogel’s test will look like. How do you test literature? I think the algebra will be okay. We didn’t have any classes this morning so I devoted a couple of hours just to practicing. At least there’s nothing I can study for carpentry. My grade in that class will be based on the quality of my coffee table. I finally got the legs even, but it doesn’t really look like the ones in the furniture store. Mendel says it has good character, but I’m not sure what that means. Liop asked if I really meant for it to be that shape.
Taty is telling me to go to bed. I hope your midterms are going well. It must be very different to be the one creating the tests.

Love,
Arri

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Keish- September 22, 2004

September 22, 2004
Dear Arri,
I cornered Caden in between my classes today.
“Why would you say such a thing?”
He groaned, holding his side as he turned to me.  “I’ve just had another beating at the hands of your husband.  Must we talk about this now?”
I glared at him.
He sighed.  “Of course we must.  I only spoke the truth, Lady Keish, though I must say I’m beginning to regret having done so.”
“But why?”
“Ah, the most ubiquitous of questions.  Why did I interfere, you mean?”  He studied the ground for a moment before looking me straight in the eye.  “Because I couldn’t bear the thought of you falling in love with him and losing everything that made you unique.”
I furrowed my brow.
Caden sighed again.  “And you reminded me of my sister.”
I gave him an incredulous look.  “The Duchess of…”
His snort cut me off.  “Not Annaleis.”  His voice softened.  “Cambria.”
My eyes widened.  “I’m sorry.  I had forgotten,” I said softly.
He shook his head.  “It was a long time ago.  But we had a dancing class together not long afterward and you reminded me so strongly of her.  I liked to think you would have been friends.  And as we’ve grown up I’ve thought… she’d have grown up a lot like you have.  Which would have made me a very proud twin brother.”  His eyes were moist.
“Thank you,” I said sincerely.
He shrugged.  “Just the truth, Milady.”
I cocked my head to one side.  “Have you told Jace this?”
He laughed.  “Of course.  Not sure it would have been safe in the training yard with him otherwise.  As I said, I know when I’m out of my league.  Letting Euan beat me never required much diligence in training on my part.”
I snorted.  “Hardly surprising.”
I had to teach my next class, but it was certainly food for thought.  I didn’t really interact with the other children unless I had to and so did not know Cambria Viteri well.  And then, of course, she was sick for so many months.  I wonder if we would have become friends.
Certainly not an explanation for Caden’s behavior that I could have guessed.  I’m not at all sure it explains why he’s hanging around, though.

“I remind him of his sister,” I said without preamble to Jace later in the day.
“Apparently so,” he replied, kissing my forehead before taking a seat near mine.
“You didn’t say anything.”
He shrugged.  “I thought it would be best to hear from him.”
“He looked a bit bruised today,” I commented, suppressing a grin.
Jace gave a short chuckle.  “I’ve been going easy on him.  Is Prince Euan so terrible in the yard?  I take back anything I ever said or implied about Caden Viteri being a threat.  You’d be a match for him without magic.”
I laughed.
“He is getting a little better, though,” Jace said kindly.
“Will you keep him as an assistant, then?”
Jace shook his head.  “No.  In fact, I’m meeting Sir Aoweir tomorrow to discuss a rotating schedule of squires and soldiers under his command.  It’s all well and good to have a novice early on, but eventually Caden would end up getting hurt.”
“You’re getting to like him, aren’t you?”
Jace grinned ruefully.  “I confess I am.  Rather in spite of myself.  There may be more to him than first meets the eye.  If nothing else, I suppose I do owe him for keeping you out of Euan’s clutches.”
I tried to look indignant.  “As though any amount of scheming would have ever induced me to …”
Jace silenced me rather effectively.  I don’t think he believed I was ever in danger of falling in love with Euan any more than I believe it myself.

Sept. 25th
I am appalled that Master Ujifil thinks it’s possible for you to slow down.  What a terrifying thought.
I think Literature sounds like the course I’d be most interested in.  I’m highly curious as to what literature he deemed inappropriate for you, but not for the young men enrolled.  I’ll have to ask Jace.  If he won’t tell me, I’ll ask Caden.  It’s unlikely he’ll have any scruples about telling me such things.

Jace has come in now and saw the above.
“It wouldn’t be fair of me to unleash you on Caden,” he muttered.  Then he explained that several of the texts were likely historical accounts written by soldiers and one could never vouch for their language.
I think it seems like rather a lot of bother over some soldierly prose, but there is sometimes no accounting for men and their various forms of protectiveness.

Dr. Kondamuri is a puzzle.  You’d think he was a staunch supporter of women’s education and yet he sounds rather condescending.  You’ve always been good with numbers.  I’m sure you’ll set him right quickly.

I am glad Mendel enjoyed the blueprints.  I’m sure they are nothing as complex as the others in his collection, but as long as he still finds them interesting, I suppose.
I have let all of the classes know that I am in search of a small dog with as mixed a lineage as is possible.  Be assured that this announcement was met with great amusement.  I expect the Gazette will have gotten wind of it by Monday-- should be interesting to see what they make of it.

I received a note from Imato asking if I could write out the bit he was missing, but I can’t.  I had the same trouble when I tried to write the spell out for Brynn.  Even with all of my notes I couldn’t do it.

Jace says he expects a letter from Taty any day now begging to let them borrow Malia.  He says that having gotten her way with his old room, Taty is certain to try “taking over” the rest of the house also.   Of course, being Jace, he says it with a smile.
“You realize if it were anyone but you she’d certainly try to lure Malia into my family’s employ,” he added with a grin.
I snorted.  “Frankly I think once she realizes Malia’s brilliance her loyalty will be severely tested.  No, she’ll just have to wait until we can visit.  I’m not letting her at Malia without me there.”
I may give Malia a raise in pay while I’m at it.  Just to be safe.

I’m beginning to think Caden is far less trouble than he appears.  I think it’s a persona he cultivates carefully.  Rather like Mendel, I suppose.  Confusing, indeed.

Sept. 27th
I had no fewer than five students today clamoring that they’d found the perfect dog.  And so, being the dutiful person I am, I spent every break looking at puppies.
Two litters I had to dismiss out of hand as the size of the mother indicated the puppies would quickly exceed the weight limit.   (Which is really too bad.  One was a litter of fox terriers mixed with something called a husky.  The result was highly amusing.)
A third litter was simply too boring.  The breeding was hardly mixed at all-- perhaps two breeds of terrier.  (Well, the owner promised me that there were 3 breeds of terrier involved, plus basenji, but they just looked like terriers.)
I had a terrible time deciding between the other two.
After explaining to both owners that I had to think about it further, and tipping all five students handsomely for their prompt discoveries, I returned home to ask Jace’s opinion.
As neither litter is old enough to leave their respective mothers, Jace is going to go with me tomorrow to see them.

When I returned to my office after I’d seen all the dogs there were to see, Caden was waiting outside.  Waiting for what, I don’t know, but I was having none of it.
“Oh good, make yourself useful for a change and find me as many copies of the Gazette as you can,” I ordered as I passed him.
“The Gazette, Lady Keish?”
“You read it devotedly enough, I imagine you could find several older copies for my classes.  The dates don’t matter, just bring whatever you can find.”  I entered my office without bothering to see what he made of that.  If he’s going to hang about, he may as well be useful.
I may have underestimated his devotion to the Gazette.  Within an hour he returned with over a dozen copies for me.  If he’s capable of that kind of efficiency in other areas, I may just continue allowing him to hang about.

Sept. 28th
I have acquired two dogs.  Or rather, I will be acquiring them.
Earlier Jace and I ventured out to see the two litters of pups.
The first was a mixture that we were assured was mainly various spaniels and terriers.  Every puppy looks a different, so I’m sure there are several breeds involved.
The second litter was something called a shar pei combined with beagle, which I know isn’t as many breeds as Mendel would prefer but they were simply too cute to dismiss out of hand.
Jace took one look at me holding one of them and laughed.  “I’d say the solution is simple.  Get Mendel a spaniel/terrier and choose one of these for yourself.”
And so, in about another week, I will have another puppy.  I don’t know how Zest will react, but she’s generally happy about everything, so I’m not concerned.   Blaze’s reaction is another matter entirely.

When Mendel’s puppy can leave it’s mother, I’ll send it with a footman.  I’ve no earthly idea why Papa decided to acquire a pair of footmen, but this will give one of them something to do, at least.
I expect it will be about ten days plus travel time, so you can tell Mendel it will be the second week in October or so.

I’ll need a name for the puppy, but as I haven’t decided which of the litter I want, it will have to wait.

The Gazette is liable to announce I’m starting some sort of zoo.  At least, one hopes it’s something that interesting.  The story Tuesday about my search for a mutt was entirely unimaginative.  Very disappointing.  If one is going to be the center of rumors it is vastly preferable that they at least be intriguing rumors.

Love Always

Keish

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Arri- September 17, 2004

September 17, 2004
Dear Keish,

By the time I made it to the first day of college I was so relieved not to have to spend all day with Master Ujifil that I didn’t have much room to feel nervous. I have watched my lungs fill with air, blood coursing through my veins, my heart beating, flexing my fingers and other various muscles over and over again, only to repeat the exercises again.
“I’m giving you much variation so you don’t get bored,” Master Ujifil informed me, “Let me know if it is too much and we need to slow down.”
Slow down?

I rode Sprigs over to the university early on the 13th so that I could make sure he was well situated in the university stables before I left for class. The stables are large, but the stalls seem small to me. I wish they could just let the horses run free in a field, but I guess there isn’t any room for that in the city. The Prens send their horses out to a field on the edge of town for a good run once a week. I’ll send Sprigs too, but I’d like to exercise him myself whenever I can.
Mendel was waiting to pounce on me the moment I emerged from the stables.
“Good morning, Arri!” he called happily, “What’s your schedule like?”
I told him my classes.
“Carpentry?” he asked, “That’s brilliant! I wish they’d given me that one.”
“What are you taking?” I asked politely.
“Well, Introduction to Philosophy, of course,” he said, “Then I have Trigonometry course 1…”
“What’s that?” I asked.
“Well, the fish were a little enthusiastic about math, so I tested out of all the college algebra courses and basic geometry. Trig is a kind of advanced geometry.” He grimaced.
“Oh,” was all I could think of to say. I wondered how much math there was to take.
“Then I have College Writing course 1,” Mendel finished.
“Sounds like a lot to learn,” I said.
Mendel shrugged. “When do you get your lunch break?” he asked.
I told him and he immediately invited me to meet him for lunch with Master Gordo Yawmus.
“You’ve seen him?” I asked.
“Not yet,” Mendel told me, “but I’m sure I can find him.”

I was the first one in the Biology room. I found a seat in the back corner and set my book in front of me. I had flipped through it casually the night before, but now I started to read the introduction. It’s a thick, heavy book with numerous illustrations. It’s a lot to learn, but interesting.
I kept my head down as other students starting entering the room. No one spoke to me, but I’m sure I stood out. Class was about to start when I felt a tap on my shoulder.
“Lady Arri,” said Master Gordo smiling shyly, “can I sit with you?”
“Of course,” I said motioning to the seat next to me. He sat down.
“I saw Master Mendel,” he whispered.
A rap at the board caused us to turn to the front of the room. A small round man bundled up as if against bitter cold stood before us.
“I am Dr. Ecrue. We will begin with chapter one,” he informed us without preamble and launched into his lecture. If he noticed a girl in the classroom, he gave no indication. It was a fascinating lecture even if I could almost read along with it from the course book. Looking at the front cover, I discovered he was the author.
Master Gordo and I separated after that. His other classes are College Algebra course 2, Introduction to Geology, and College Writing course 1, although not at the same time as Mendel.
My next class was Introduction to Literature. The middle-aged professor, Dr. Freyvogel, was entirely unnerved by my appearance in the classroom. It seemed that he didn’t know I was coming.
“I’ll have to reconsider my reading selections,” he muttered distractedly after walking away from our introduction, “entirely inappropriate for a young lady…” I wondered if I should chase him down and tell him that wasn’t necessary. Then I wondered if I really wanted to read what he considered “inappropriate”. Then I wondered if he would think it appropriate for me to tell him what to teach. I spent most of the lecture, which was mainly a story about how Dr. Freyvogel decided to become a literature professor, wondering what to do. He ended class by saying that he would have our reading assignments the next class (glancing at me as he said this). As the other students filed out I ventured cautiously up to the front of the classroom to tell him he didn’t need to change the curriculum just for me.
“Oh don’t worry about it, Miss Etautca. Don’t worry about a thing. We will read excellent literature this term,” he said kindly.
Somehow, I still felt worried.
I checked on Sprigs during my break and read the first couple of chapters in my biology book. Then it was time for College Algebra.
“Miss Etautca, welcome! Don’t sit at the back. You won’t be able to see properly! Come sit here at the front.” Dr. Kondamuri took me by the elbow and escorted me to the seat he wanted. “Now don’t be afraid to ask questions, Miss. You’ll have a lot of them I’m sure. If you decide you need extra tutoring, just ask and I can make some excellent recommendations. This is a tough class, but I’m sure we can get you through it.”
I didn’t say anything, feeing embarrassed and annoyed at the same time. The first lecture was a review of what we should already know, and thanks to Master Imkell’s excellent lessons, I found that I really did know everything expected of me. After class finished, Dr. Kondamuri cornered me to ask if I had any additional questions about the lecture and to remind me that help was available if I needed it. I politely declined and escaped as fast as possible.

Since Mendel was really excited to get the blueprints you sent him, and Master Gordo and I were done with classes for the day, we met back at the Prens’ house for lunch. Not wanting to inconvenience the cook with unexpected guests we bought lunch at a bakery and ate it in the garden. It was a cool, clear day and the sun felt nice on my face.
Mendel loves the blueprints. Even Gordo was interested. We poured over them for over an hour. Mendel knew every architectural symbol and explained them to us. It was fascinating to look at. Gordo had never seen a blueprint before and asked many questions. Mendel puffed up proudly with his knowledge and gave much longer answers than necessary. It was like attending another lecture. I found myself wishing the tower was nearby so I could compare it to the drawings.
Eventually, however, Mendel admitted to having one class left to attend.
“If it weren’t the first day…” he sighed, “but even a gentleman of leisure must be polite enough to attend his classes once or twice.” He retrieved his horse and left us.
Gordo watched him until he turned the corner.
“He’s a bit…” he glanced over at me cautiously, “confusing,” he concluded.
“You have no idea,” I agreed.

Mendel is delighted to accept your offer of a dog. He would prefer a mutt, the more mixed up the better. He says it will make a perfect contrast to his pair of kuvaszes. It will have to be under thirty pounds, because that is the weight limit set by his apartment (and the reason his dogs couldn’t come with him).

The next day I attended Biology and Algebra again, but not Literature. I did however begin carpentry. The professor was very surprised to have a girl in his class, but said he was sure I’d do fine. The first lecture consisted of safety rules for the workshop. The next lecture we would be tested on it. The rules were mostly common sense I thought, although I’ve never used any tool more complicated than a hammer. I’m a bit worried, because I think you need to be strong for carpentry. I’m not strong. I wonder if the professor would allow magic?

The week went by quickly. I didn’t meet with Master Ujifil, but I will meet with him tomorrow. I just received an invitation to lunch from Brynn.

September 20, 2011

Imato and I had lunch with Brynn today. She had a lot to say about you and your amazing organizational skills. She really enjoyed watching you teach. We spent a long time discussing the spell to protect the children. Brynn wanted to see the actual spell, but when I tried to find it for her in the Chronicle, it was gone. Even Imato couldn’t retrieve it. He even tried to write it out from memory, but there was one part that, try as he might, he could not remember. Brynn was very much interested in finding out who the remaining Brios with magic are. She intends to contact them and offer her tutoring skills.

September 23, 2011

The solarium sounds so beautiful! Lady Pren says that perhaps she should borrow Malia to help reorganize the townhouse. Really the Prens’ home is beautiful already.
Caden Viteri really sounds like a lot of trouble. Maybe he has some of the same problems that Mendel has, but I don’t see how hanging around you can help. That was nice of him to steer Prince Euan away though. I don’t know what I’d do about him if I were you.

Studying is keeping me very busy. I haven’t been to the cave at all since classes started. All I do is study. In some ways, though, it is a relief that school is the only thing I have to do right now.
I’m going to end this letter here. I hope that school is going well for you. Give everyone my love!

Love,
Arri

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Keish- September 15, 2004

September 15, 2004
Dear Arri,
Of all the…. That he actually had the temerity to…
It is perhaps fortunate I do not live in Rousha.  Imato’s fist may have been the least of the man’s problems.  I can very well understand Imato and Uncle W.‘s fuming.  I’ve been fuming since reading your letter.
The situation has, however, made Jace quite thoughtful.  “It seems there would be a temporary means of transferring guardianship,” he said slowly.  “Something that would allow Imato and Arri to control a portion of the holdings without actually declaring Sir Quin insane.”  He thought for several more minutes, then left me in the sitting room to search out some books on the subject and, presumably, write to Imato.
Whether Jace finds another possible solution or not, I’d say a new financial advisor is certainly the first step to take.  I cannot help but wish that Uncle Quin could just be healed as soon as may be so as to avoid any legal entanglements whatever.  (That’s not to put pressure on you, Arri.  It’s just what we all want.)
I must say I’m impressed at Imato’s thoughtfulness.  Gretel must be exerting her usual good influence.  I doubt he’d have thought to include you in the discussion of finances even a month ago.

Your studies sound…… okay, they sound dreadfully dull.  I’m sorry, but I am fervently grateful that it is you with the gift of healing.  I would never have the patience to spend an afternoon watching myself breathe.  I attempted it briefly (though with the full knowledge that you see far more than I ever could as I looked down at my bodice) and lasted less than two minutes before I was driven to utter distraction.
Perhaps if you tell him about watching the magic enter our blood he won’t make you watch your veins for hours on end?
Speaking of the spell, Brynn has been here.  I know Adya is not directly on the way back to Rousha from Darius’ cave, but it was nice to see her.  Apparently my detailed letter about the spell was not detailed enough for she had several questions.   She has several for you also, I believe, and possibly Imato.  I imagine she’ll be back in Rousha by week’s end, since she stayed Monday and Tuesday to watch me teach.  Well, she sat in an hour with each of the other teachers also, but mostly she watched me.  I wasn’t sure if I should be nervous or flattered at the attention.
In addition to attention from Brynn, I continue to have far more attention than I wish from other quarters as well.
Not only does Caden Viteri persist in hanging about, but Jace is getting quite a lot of attention…. From students.  His astronomy course is nearly our best-attended class.
Now I’d like to think that this is because it is an interesting subject combined with a time most conducive to larger attendance.
I cannot, however, dismiss the idea that it is more because of the romance of starlight and a handsome teacher.
Certainly I find being with Jace by starlight romantic, but I’m not feeling very willing to share the indulgence.  I’m feeling decidedly possessive.
Which is why I’ve begun attending every astronomy lesson.  (Well, that and it is an interesting subject at a time conducive to my attending.)

Sept. 16th
Malia had me up before the sun this morning.
Wrapped in a dressing gown, I was dragged downstairs.
“Now, close your eyes, Mistress,” she said at the foot of the stairs.
I rolled them first, but did as she requested and allowed her to lead me.  A door opened and we stepped through.  Malia left my side and suddenly my hand was in Jace’s.
“You can open them now, love,” he said softly in my ear.
I did so and gasped.  The astonishing and beautiful room before me was rivaled only by the sight of the sun rising over Adya.
I had given the solarium over to Malia when the furniture I selected in Darse arrived.  Once it was clear the parlor would not hold it I threw up my hands and told Malia to put both rooms to right.
The result in the solarium is completely breathtaking.
The walls had been painted a pale lemony cream.  A large green and yellow carpet with leaf patterns was centered on the flagstones.  The trim around the doors was painted a matching green, as was all of the molding.  The doors were a darker rich yellow-- the color of butter.  A long backless sofa sat against the wall between the doors and the matching chaise lounges I’d picked out in Darse were set at angles near the doors.
As the sun rose and lit the room the effect was so warm and cheerful that it may be my new favorite room.  I cannot wait to show you when you next visit.

Sept. 17th
Jace came into lunch looking disgruntled.
“Everything alright?” I asked.
He sighed.  “I wish people would stop calling me ‘Lord Jace’.  Or worse, ‘Lord Pren’.  While I may be the luckiest man in the world to have married you, it didn’t make me a lord.  Master Pren is more appropriate.  I‘m certainly no more than Master Pren to anyone in Rousha.”
(My breath caught a little at his words.  To hear such words spoken so sincerely… never settle for anything less, Arri.)
“True as that may be, titles are a little more flexible in Arella.  You may technically be Master Pren, but you married into the Brio family which, while an Elcaran family, is still a highly respected name and the Leilani family, which is one of the oldest families in Arella.  When people call you Lord it is out of respect for the families… and respect for you.”
He sighed again.  “I suppose.  It makes me uncomfortable, though.”
I laughed.  “Something I’ve been saying for years.”
He laughed as well.  “Point taken.  I suppose I’ll survive it if you have.”

Sept. 20th
“Do you have a purpose?” I asked in frustration this afternoon as I left the classroom building to find Caden Viteri once again leaning against the wall outside.  “In being here?  In life generally?”
“Of course not, Milady.  I am merely a youngest son, after all.”  He said it with a smile and a mocking bow, but there was a bitterness in his voice.
I rolled my eyes.  “I am decidedly out of patience with people who choose to conform to society’s expectations and then complain of them.”
He chuckled.  “Well, I suppose my purpose used to be entertaining Euan and keeping him out of trouble, but the newlyweds have little use for a bachelor like me.  I understand I have you to thank for his becoming betrothed to the most insipid young lady at court while I spent a year with my sister’s family?  You and Gretel nee Aoweir, no doubt.”
I shrugged.  “Euan needed… a distraction.”
“Yes, but Vanessa Melchoir?  Why?  Aside from the fact that they probably deserve each other.”  This was apparently meant to be rhetorical, because he didn’t give me a chance to answer.  “I’ve seen his painting of you, though.  It’s good.”
I raised an eyebrow skeptically.
He laughed.  “Well I could tell it was you, at least.”
I gave a brief groan.  “I’d rather hoped to be unrecognizable,” I muttered.
Suddenly he was serious.  “I am sorry about that.”
I was thoroughly confused.  “You weren’t even here.”
“I know.  If I had been I could have talked him out of it.  I’d done so before.”
He was so earnest that I tried not to laugh, but I couldn’t help it.
Jace met us in the garden then.  He smiled as he took my hand.  “Has Lord Viteri been telling jokes?”
“Oh, you’re just in time.  Caden is about to regale us with tales of the young ladies he’s rescued by talking Euan out of his schemes.”
We looked at Caden expectantly.
He cleared his throat.  “Ah yes.  Well actually, I only interfered if the lady involved… was you.”
Jace went very still beside me.
Caden noticed and gave a rueful chuckle.  “You’ve nothing to fear from me, Lord Pren,” he said very softly.  He continued in a more normal voice, “Still, it was shockingly inappropriate of me to say.  I must make it up to you.  Perhaps in the training yard?  I understand Kaplan is unavailable this week.  I know when I’m out of my league,” his eyes flicked to me briefly, “but years of letting Euan beat me must have taught me something.”
Jace’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully.  After a moment he nodded.  “Be there at 2:30.”
Caden looked relieved as he made his bow and left us.

Why would he say such a thing, Arri?  Shockingly inappropriate, indeed!  The implications… No, they don’t even bear thinking about.
Possibly even more disturbing, though, is the question of how much more would I have been subjected to Euan’s company had Caden not interfered?

I do hope your first week of classes was exciting, productive, and far less obfuscating.

Love Always,

Keish

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Arri- September 6, 2004

September 6, 2004
Dear Keish,

It sounds as though you are off to a good start with school. Master Ujifil says that Queen Elspeth is watching your progress with great interest. He agrees that girls should have the same opportunities for basic education that boys have, especially the beginning grades.
I started studying with Master Ujifil on the first of the month, and studying really is the word. He won’t take me on any visits for the first couple of months, depending on how I progress.  We will just do exercises in the lab. The first day he tested my magic using a glass ball and the same spell that Brynn uses. Fortunately, I didn’t turn his hand orange. Then he wanted me to tell him the spells I already know how to work. He had me demonstrate Mother’s simple healing spell with the herbs using his old terrier as the patient. Then he had me demonstrate how I can remove contaminants from people’s bodies like I did with the boy fairy, Liop and Glory’s lungs. He was most pleased with that spell.
“Your ability to perceive details is very good,” he said, “Much of what you require is to learn about what you’re looking at.”
To that effect my beginning exercises involve becoming more aware of my body and how it works. Then I will be able to apply it to others. I spent much of the day trying to watch myself breathe while Master Ujifil went on his patient visits. I also sat and watched and listened to a patient who came into the laboratory. It was very boring to breath in and out steadily and watch my lungs will with air. I found myself nodding off.
All of my lessons have been something like this:
“Today, Lady Arri, you must watch yourself blink. You must try to understand how your muscles move without your having to consciously think about it.”
This request seemed like a contradiction at first, but I watched and watched and watched… until I fell asleep.
I think I prefer Master Imkell. I almost prefer memorizing the deserts of Greste. Well, maybe it’s not that bad, but I hope it gets better soon.
I got the set of blueprints you sent. I’m sure Mendel will really like them. I spent awhile looking at them myself and trying to fit them to the memory of the last time I visited you. It’s funny that you have rooms that you never use. The tower is so big. I suppose you don’t really need all those rooms. The solarium sounds very nice though. I’m sure the view is beautiful. Decorating the tower sounds like a lot of fun. I’ll have to come visit so I can see everything you’ve done.
I will ask Mendel about the dog. I’m not sure if his apartment will allow dogs or not. He hasn’t moved to Rousha yet, but I’m sure that I will see him sometime during the first couple weeks of classes. Mendel always turns up when I’m least expecting him.
Caden Viteri sounds like a problem. I wonder why he’s hanging around so much. Hopefully, he gets bored soon and leaves. After all, this isn’t a fashion trend that you’re starting.
I guess if I can attend college with all boys then it would be alright for boys to attend school with all girls. Reading and writing is something everyone should know. It is illegal in Elcaro to interfere with the education of a boy under fourteen. They must be allowed to attend school, and if they work, they must have written permission from their teacher, showing that they are a good student. After fourteen, whether they continue school is optional. Many don’t, depending on what career they want.
In two days I Uncle W. and Imato will help me move all of my things to the Prens’ house. It’s going to feel very different, but I’m excited.

September 12, 2004

Today Imato had a meeting with the financial advisor that oversees all of Father’s assets. Since he never owned any property—we were too mobile and Father disliked the idea of overseeing an estate from a distance—everything of value is stored in a bank vault.
I was surprised when Imato asked me to join him, but the bank advisor was even more surprised. He assumed at first that I was simply going to wait in the lobby. Imato corrected him rather harshly, causing him to turn very red.
It was an awful meeting, sitting and talking about money for more than two hours, going over the value of everything in the vault and interest acquired and the laws controlling it. We went over the amount of money released to Imato when he completed his knighthood, and the smaller sum that came to me on my eighteenth birthday. It will pay my rent for the year with some left over, and I’m grateful for it. The King and Queen are covering the cost of my apprenticeship and Uncle W. has raised the money for my college tuition. Imato will cover the remainder of my expenses.
Then we discussed my dowry which can only be released for my wedding. There is a sum of money designated for Liop when he completes his education in the career of his choice, although the will specifies that he is expected to complete some form of higher education whether military or academic.
All of these things we already knew about and I was growing increasingly restless and uncomfortable with the whole thing. Finally the advisor came to the point for which he called the meeting. He wants to have Father declared permanently insane. Then Imato would be declared his legal guardian. It would be like declaring him dead all over again and the estate (except for Liop’s share which would be held in trust) would be released to Imato and me.
I’m surprised Imato didn’t punch him. He was that angry.
For a few minutes we sat in shocked silence, staring at the man. He had offered his proposal as though it were a brilliant idea, but as Imato’s stony silence filled the room, he began to look increasingly nervous.
“What,” asked Imato finally, “will happen when Sir Etautca is cured?”
This was clearly not something the advisor had considered. He didn’t answer right away.
“First,” he hesitated, “there would be the legal process of restoring his competency.”
“A long and difficult battle,” said Imato, “there would be no return to his career. The military has strict rules about this. His profession would be ruined.”
“I think he will have more than earned an early retirement. You really believe he will want to return to his career?” asked the advisor, folding his arms.
Imato stood and the advisor shrank backward.
“Yes,” Imato said.
There was silence for a minute then the advisor rose.
“I can’t believe that your father would have wanted you to make such sacrifices, to continue to be a burden on your relatives,” he turned to me, “Lady Arri, surely you can see the reason in this. I have only the greatest respect for Sir Etautca.”
“I do not—,” I said, trying to keep my voice from trembling, “—see the reason.”
Imato motioned for me.
“I will not destroy my father’s career. He is only forty-six years old. If he wishes for an early retirement that will be his decision, not mine. This family has not truly depended on his income for a long time. As for the burden on our uncle, that time will be over soon and repaid in full,” he said levelly.
“As brilliant a captain as he was, I doubt the king would be able to restore him to that position even cured,” said the advisor.
“If the King commands me,” Imato towered over him, “I will think about it, but YOU are not to bring this subject to my ears again!” And he stormed out of the bank with me racing to keep up.
Imato fumed all the way to Uncle Winthrop’s apartment. When he told Uncle W. what happened, they fumed together all through dinner. I think we will be finding a new financial advisor.
“I’m sorry you had to hear that,” Imato told me later, “but I think you need to be involved in the family finances. You need to understand them. After all, I’m in a hazardous profession.”
“Don’t you dare make this conversation more unpleasant,” I glared at him, “I’ve been handling the household budget for Uncle W. I can handle this.”
“Is he still having you do that?”
“Well, I’m teaching Nysa, but she doesn’t like it much, so I’m going to look at it with her every couple of weeks for a while. Uncle W. says it’s good for her. She might have her own household to manage someday.”
“True,” said Imato slowly, considering the idea. Even though she only thirty-eight and looks like she’s in her early twenties, it’s hard to imagine Nysa married. Brynn told me that one day I will probably look older than her. It’s hard to say exactly how she will age now that she’s a house fairy, but it will certainly be more slowly than ordinary people. It’s strange to think about.
Imato, Uncle W., and I went over all the budgets and determined that we do not have any financial concerns for the next year. I guess Uncle W. had a letter from Uncle Adlen asking if he could assist us in any way. Uncle W. has written his own reply, but I’m going to add that if we need help we will certainly ask for it. The offer was very kindly given and received. As Imato said, one day this will all be behind us and we will have learned valuable lessons about what things are most important in life, like family.
Tomorrow is the first day of school, so I better go to bed early. Kestrel is camping in the hallway in front of the parlor door. I suppose she still hopes that Lady Pren will change her mind about barring her from that room. I don’t think Kestrel would really hurt the birds; she knows to leave Hermes and Clotho alone, but I agree that she shouldn’t be allowed to harass them.
I hope teaching is going well for you and Jace and that you’re enjoying it. Give my love to everyone.

Love,
Arri

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