To my betrothed Tadg,

I write to inform you that as of this week, I have safely arrived in Bluestone. My journey was not too long, nor was it uncomfortable, and I am, insofar as I can tell, in good health. My arrangements here seem to be agreeable, if not as accommodating as those at Lodgrey. I have to care for my own laundry and linens, which, as we both know, is my greatest foe. I have a few things I need to purchase to make my quarters acceptably livable, including blankets, and intend to find a way to save up gold for it.

This position does not provide me with any finances. While my supplies for research, food, and board are provided, this is an unpaid situation, and no gold will be given me as recompense for my work. If it is possible to discuss my situation with your parents and arrange accordingly, I might require a temporary break in my loan repayments. I understand the terms of our agreement and that your parents likely require the finances as much as I do, but if I am having to work in a mercenary fashion rather than being salaried for my research, I must pay for my own necessities before I worry about debts. I am sure that your parents will understand well this position, considering that they have shown sincere concern for my well being during this transition.

Though I know your business travels occasionally take you to Bluestone, I ask that you consider visiting me when you have a spare moment. I would like to demonstrate to you the value and nature of my work in a way that I could not do at the Academy. Though I am currently employed as an assistant to the court wizard, I primarily do work on my research when I am given the opportunity. I think that it may be of some interest to you.

The other assistant to Mage Ullic is the eldest son of House Mannix, a young wizard named Kiarn. His work seems to be of a more private nature, or perhaps done outside of the laboratories. His coming and going is of little interest to me, but he is shockingly private. Ullic and I are in some agreement that my position as his research assistant is very naturally one that is for both of our benefits; he intends that I will understand the management of a good laboratory and will teach me so, and I intend to make something of the mess which years of neglect have made of the place. It is quite impressive inside, perhaps nearly wholly constructed of magical additions which cannot be distinguished from true stonework. I should like to show you the Castle Bluestone someday. Write me when next you shall come.

Sincerely,

Merel