[A parcel for Alejandro Benjazar]

[Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi]

[A parcel containing a book and a note is left at the Krak des Roses addressed to Alejandro.]


Nisah 17, IY 7788


My friend,

It has been too long since we have spoken at length.

Contained herein is the second worst thing I have ever known, reduced to prose that does not suit the gravity of it, and that cannot speak truth to the ideals of those who died to give life to these words.

I pray it finds you well.

Yours,

Sister Amélie

[Don Nadie]

Dear Amelie,

It has, indeed, been a while. Sadly, our schedules rarely align... And this last week I have been taken by a cheese-derived illness, which doesn't help. Still, reading your chronicle has been a most illuminating experience. As you know, I was not able to join the battle, much to my own chagrin... And I still wonder if I could've changed some of the losses we incurred.

But, to the point: I like it, and found it very useful to get an idea of the Battle. A great work of historiography on your part, my friend, and something to be proud of.

I do lamment not reading the death of Elle, first of the Rose to fall if the accounts I received are not mistaken, to the foul spellcasting of the lizardfolk general. I understand it is not as relevant, of course. She was a small, insignificant Student. But she was dear to me. Her loss - that burdens me even more than Lynneth's or Snorri's. For they were heroes, ready to give their lives for the cause. But she... She was just a woman, scared, trying to be brave for the place she called her home.

Apologies, I am digressing again. It is a painful remembrance, even if I was absent. So many losses, borne upon our memories... Regardless, a grand work, Amelie. My congratulations.

Yours,

Alejandro