A sealed letter, to Alejandro

[Dugs]

Dearest Alejandro,

I write to you with a heavy heart, reflecting on our recent exchange, which was far from the pleasant conversations we've shared in the past. It is with humility and sincerity that I extend my heartfelt apology, for in our last meeting, I allowed a fit of jealousy to cloud my judgment.

When I first joined the Balladeers, I was filled with hope and purpose, believing that our solemn oath was to save the world and to see the green gardens flourish once more. The day I was named a Balladeer was a memorable one, filled with laughter and a rather inappropriate joke that I shared with our dear Grandmaster.

Yet, it wasn't long before our world seemed to unravel. Alain departed without a word, followed by Siegward, and even Aurelio found solace at the bottom of his cups. And then, it was your turn. In truth, I've been harboring feelings of resentment, particularly over Alain's sudden absence. Unfortunately, I've allowed this resentment to spill over onto you, unfairly blaming you for circumstances beyond your control. For this, I am deeply sorry.

It is not your fault that your talents were recognized and sought after for your performances. I should not have held you responsible as I implied. Instead, I should have recognized the value you brought to our ranks. I write to you today in the hope of repairing the bridge that threatens to crumble between us. I yearn to mend our friendship before it fades away entirely. If there is any way I can assist in the upcoming feast, consider me at your disposal.

The Balladeers now bear a gaping hole in our collective soul, one that you once filled with your presence. It falls upon us to attempt to fill that void as best we can. Together, I believe we can honor the legacy you left behind and strive to make the Balladeers whole once more.

Sincerely,
Roderick

[Don Nadie]

Dear Roderick,

Your feelings are understandable, and I am sorry if I snapped a bit brusquely, too. I simply feel that I was, for very long, one of the few outwards-facing Balladeers who dedicated some of his time to artistic endeavours, just as I was the one leading archaeological efforts. And I have done, on both fields, a lot of effort to get the reputation and skill I now have. Finding myself in such a strange time of my life, with so many things up in the air, I may be getting a bit over-defensive regarding my achievements.

Point being, there is nothing to forgive. Families get into arguments. And cloak or no cloak upon my shoulders, in my heart, you remain a brother. Please, do not fear for any burnt bridges, and find, in your heart, patience for my dramatics. You do the College proud.

I hope new artists shall soon flock your Halls, and that new songs will ring in the Garden. If they do, and they need guidance, please send them my way. I'm always happy to discuss poetry, and help others grow as artists. Though I shall add that Narwen was always the better musician.

Yours,

Alejandro

[Don Nadie]

Dear Roderick,

I hope you return with energy and vigor from your outing.

I write to you because I'm sending a few letters regarding the Feast of B'aara. Would you be willing to perform one of your Tales for an audience? I've read them, and they are all delightful, so I'm sure they'd be welcome. Plus, the College's artistry should be represented.

If you do, my only advice is that you remember to keep it relatively short and sweet. As I know well, even with all sorts of magical effects and dancing frogs, people can get bored if things go on for too long. Half a bell is usually best.

Yours,

Alejandro

PS: I'm writing to Alois next. Wish me luck...

[Dugs]

Alejandro,

I'd be delighted to attend the Feast of B'aara and share one of my Tales with the audience. Your kind words about my stories warm my heart, and I'm honored to represent the College's artistry.

I appreciate your advice on keeping it short and sweet. I'll craft a tale that will captivate the audience without overstaying its welcome. I look forward to the event and the opportunity to entertain our fellow Ephians.

Best of luck with your other letters, and may the Feast of B'aara be a resounding success.

Yours,

Roderick