Response to Alaia
(( The letter is written on good quality paper, carefully folded into thirds and sealed with dark blue sealing wax. If the seal is intact, Alaia can see the impression of the signet ring that Isa pressed into the wax. ))
Dear Miss Alaia (As I have no knowledge of your family name, I must beg your forgiveness for the familiarity of this address),
The reception of your missive not two days ago was a most gratifying surprise that went a very long way toward brightening my morning; for this, lady, you have my gratitude. I shall hope that this letter reaches you in good time; at least, the neutral courier that I have engaged has declared this to be the case.
Regarding your question, yes, we Gilneans tend to open our missives thus (while many now consider those of us who share a common affliction to be a separate people, I consider myself to be Gilnean, first and foremost), lady, and there is no error in the least in using such an opening. I shall continue and explain that, upon my part, the sharpest memories of your people lie not in current events, but rather in encounters which occurred before certain political unpleasantnesses; thus, you may rest assured that I hold no personal animosity against your people at this time.
Necessities aside, the most important portion of this letter begins herein: I have the duty of confessing that upon reception of the package and discovering the nature of its contents, I immediately requested of the innkeeper boiling water and a tea service that I might properly inspect the blend in its natural setting (with the appropriate accompaniment of light pastries). I must commend your hand and its skill at blending the tea; moreover, I should consider myself honored were you to share the recipe for such (although my skill is likely to prove a poor substitute for yours, I am certain.).
Thank you for sending the tea; I look forward to a great many mornings enjoying a cuppa with my breakfast.
I shall hope that you and yours continue to fare well, lady.
Very respectfully,
Isandare Blackwell.
Dear Miss Alaia (As I have no knowledge of your family name, I must beg your forgiveness for the familiarity of this address),
The reception of your missive not two days ago was a most gratifying surprise that went a very long way toward brightening my morning; for this, lady, you have my gratitude. I shall hope that this letter reaches you in good time; at least, the neutral courier that I have engaged has declared this to be the case.
Regarding your question, yes, we Gilneans tend to open our missives thus (while many now consider those of us who share a common affliction to be a separate people, I consider myself to be Gilnean, first and foremost), lady, and there is no error in the least in using such an opening. I shall continue and explain that, upon my part, the sharpest memories of your people lie not in current events, but rather in encounters which occurred before certain political unpleasantnesses; thus, you may rest assured that I hold no personal animosity against your people at this time.
Necessities aside, the most important portion of this letter begins herein: I have the duty of confessing that upon reception of the package and discovering the nature of its contents, I immediately requested of the innkeeper boiling water and a tea service that I might properly inspect the blend in its natural setting (with the appropriate accompaniment of light pastries). I must commend your hand and its skill at blending the tea; moreover, I should consider myself honored were you to share the recipe for such (although my skill is likely to prove a poor substitute for yours, I am certain.).
Thank you for sending the tea; I look forward to a great many mornings enjoying a cuppa with my breakfast.
I shall hope that you and yours continue to fare well, lady.
Very respectfully,
Isandare Blackwell.