Unspoken Words

[Farren Lóthlindor]

Aarno,

I hope this letter doesn't find you too confused at my own forwardness, and instead finds you well. The only thing I wish you to be while I am away on this mission for the Order.

I've been out in the field now for a fortnight and I dream of a soft bed and socks that are not wet. But I daresay I am faring better than some of our fellow knights, for I at least can slink away and sleep in the hollows of trees with a pelt made for weathering these Spring rains.

Although, I've never seen Syr Faramund in such a cranky fuss in my life. Who knew the damp could so quickly unravel the stoic? I seriously thought he would destroy camp if he failed to spark the kindling yet again for our campfire. But as always, the young squires succeeded with pluck and they enjoyed a rather succuous meal of the rabbits I caught them.

But I do wish my teeth did not so ruin their pelts, because if I remember correctly, one of your cloaks is in need of mending?
As long as you
That is, if you wanted

Anyways, I am holding out hope that we will soon return home to the monastery. I dream of Louretta's freshly baked spiced rolls and a hot cup of coffee now that Winter is finally letting go.

Which reminds me, yesterday, during my scouting, I found the first flower I've seen poking from the thawed ground! You could not imagine my excitement! I swear I almost sang with the birds that I startled. I don't really have a good place to store it while I'm out here, so you'll find it within and I ask that you keep it safe for me until I come home.

Damp regards,
Farren

@Aarno

---

Enclosed is a pressed white flower. Five velvet star-like petals that smell of soft beginnings.

 

[Aarno]

Farren,

Nothing too forward — we are friends, are we not? As such, I should’ve hoped yourself has remained relatively warm and soft comfortable despite the rains that have persisted for the entire time you’ve been away. No such luck, but at least you’ve Syr Faramund to keep you company in myriad lamentations. And the squires to lift the spirits in turn.

In your ardent dreams you are not alone, for as you speak of Louretta so does she speak of you. That she should miss you, for your laugh and pair of helping hands at the kitchens and the courtyards, ever obliging in your errands. A swift step and a penchant for spry jest, a chime of silver bells. Perhaps it isn’t too much to say that I should’ve missed the sound of them too.

She also, the ever practical woman she is, asked whether you might stop by Astenvale on your way back? She had ordered something through the innkeep there — wouldn’t tell me what — and figured whatever it was would’ve already arrived. Or if not, the man working there would be more likely to bend into hurrying, if knights came knocking. Diabolical, but clever, I know.

I’ve stashed the flower. Do reclaim it once you’re home. Don’t worry about the cloak.

Cozy hollows,
A.

PS.
This comes to you belated, as despite myself having written this a week and a half ago, it seems to have slipped my mind to actually send it. Excuse the dust, if you may, and accept this little something I found in the Sun by the workshop.

​

[ within the rolled up parchment, a single coltsfoot ]

 

[Farren Lóthlindor]

Aarno,

I’ll admit, there are times I find myself staring at my blank parchment, wondering whether my words will be worthy of your attention. What tales of mine could possibly intrigue you? Should I tell you about the rabbits I've caught—again? Or of the forest creatures I speak to while I am out in the wilds? Perhaps you have a hobbyist's fascination with fungi that I haven't discovered yet, for which I can speak on plenty?

I fear you may be looking for something more exciting in my letters, and yet I cannot stop the compulsion I feel to tell you every mundane detail.

Still, if you'd be so kind as to assure me that your next letter is forthcoming, I’ll gladly commit to whatever ramblings you find the most interesting. Anything to hasten the arrival of your words.

As for missing me? I’m certain you wouldn’t want to hear me go on about it. So, I’ll just tease you instead and say that, in a manner of speaking, I’ve missed you as well, my friend.

And please let Louretta know that I will swing by Astenvale on my way back, and I’ll be sure to let the innkeep know exactly how urgent this delivery is. They won’t keep me waiting, I promise you that.

Now, I’m holding out hope that the rains will ease soon, as we’re set to turn homeward any day now. Until then, may your days be less drenched than mine, and that you remember to send letters in a timely fashion, no matter how dusty.

Damp but smiling,
Farren

P.S. I have pocketed a rock or two that was too heavy to mail, but found them neat nonetheless, and I confess I am eager to show them to you and hear your expertise on my finds. Faramund has warned me away from lakes and rivers in the meantime.

@Aarno