[A letter for Estellise Azimi]

[Astra]

Estellise,

Firstly, let me apologize for bumping into you without so much as a 'hello' at the Krak des Roses. The circumstance, unfortunately, was not one where I was able to speak with you. Namely, I must express some dismay at the actions of your apprentice, Nadiri Zain al-Saiba.

As you know, I was in seclusion for some time recently - but when I heard over the bellows that Mae was expelling her apprentice, I came as quickly as I could - for I knew that she must have felt the sting of betrayal to take such a dire action, and that she would surely be grievously in pain.

I spoke to Mae, and began consoling her. She was distraught, as I had imagined, and wished to conceal her pain from her peers who surrounded her - indeed, Zenithar Oro arrived to chastise her, in a way that troubled and upset her. I was able to soothe her unpleasant feelings regarding Ashley's betrayal somewhat, and felt something of a thawing between us. Then, that Nadiri told me to leave, calling my commentary 'banal' and 'uninteresting.' He does not understand anything - not the pain of betrayal, not the pain of self-sacrifice, and yet he sought to chastise me before Mae. It ruined a fragile balance. The moment's connection was shattered.

Why would your Nadiri do this to me, Estellise? Surely you have not instructed him to do so - and surely he, as your right hand, knows of our shared desire to heal Mae's wounded heart. Some women might believe that you have said something to him which you would never say to me - but I trust you, and I know that you would never intend for something like this to happen if you knew about it. Please, as I have helped you by counseling my wayward Acolytes, help me by counseling this wayward Nadiri.

P.S. Welly Wormswill was, as always, utterly kind to me in the face of such hostility. If there is an Epoch of Kindness, I dare say that he should receive a recommendation for it.

I remain, as ever, your best friend,
Hypatia

[Atelier Margarethe]

Dear Hypatia,

That does make sense. I understood that you were likely busy, as we are two very busy people, and so thought little of it.

The behavior you describe is obviously concerning. I should note that my apprentice is himself struggling with several difficult matters that have concerned me for some time. I obviously have not said anything to him that I have not said to you and assure you that in this matter he has acted on his own initiative.

I will counsel my apprentice soon. You can count on this.

I'm also glad to hear that Welly is behaving well. Well, as well as can be expected from one of his inclinations.

Regards,
Estellise

[cmenden]

Dear Hypatia,

That does make sense. I understood that you were likely busy, as I was as well, so I took no offense.

What you describe concerns me greatly, but much of Zain's behavior of late has been deeply concerning. I can assure you, at the very least, that he was acting on his own. I gave him no such instructions, and often tell him to be cordial when dealing with the Sisterhood.

However, the lesson is clearly needed once more. I will counsel my Apprentice as soon as I am able.

As for Welly, I find that he is consistently cordial. That is to say, he behaves well at all times. Such is to be expected from one of his inclinations.

Regards,
Estellise