#bellameu

It's been just us for a while, out here in the mountains. The home is wonderful, and Theodore is comfortable as well. We're happy up here, alone. The hustle and bustle of the Imperial City was never something I was entirely fond of, even if it was where I grew up. You would think the memories of when I could see would give me a sense of nostalgia for a place I once knew. But after my blindness I began to respect the world for so much more.

A regular blind person would probably tell you about the smells, the sounds, and feeling of everything around you that just becomes... heightened. But the grimoire takes things into a whole new perspective. With the war over the crystal's reach has expanded throughout Bellameu, and anyone who is willing to learn magic is free to. It's brought so much to the land, and most people don't see that. There's magic in every fiber of life now, and with my “vision” I can see it better than most. I may not be able to make out details perfectly, but in return I got a new form of beauty, and this house in the Sarangi Mountains has been the perfect place to stay for the rest of my years.

Theodore seems to be at peace with every inch of the place. I suppose that's not too surprising; An aerial creature at heart seeks high places, and the mountains go much higher from where we settled. It's of no doubt he must be still adapting to his new body. Nearly 3 years have passed, but a transformation so drastic is something that would normally take a lifetime to get used to. This is just something we've never done before, and it was an act of desperation. But even now, he is fully aware of the world and is happy to live by my side. He may not fit in our home, but the elements hardly faze him, and he doesn't seem to mind staying outside. It's my intention do what I can to make his life as comfortable as possible, even if he ends up outliving us all.

I've made the place myself since I've last spoken to you. My mother was always bit of over-cleaner, and it seems that blood has passed down the line. I do what I can at least, there's no one up here to tell me exactly how well I do. I've never had vermin in the building however, and the house remains smelling as sweet as the day I moved in. Perhaps the mountain air attests to that, but I'd like to believe I'd do an honest job with a house guest. Maybe you can visit sometime? I wouldn't mind seeing you or Couteau again. Only the gods know where and when that boy is right now.

That being said, how are things in the Empire? I've not heard much, but I still believe you're the best person to lead. Mira mentions you have “big plans” for expanding the borders of the country and I surely hope you don't intend on causing any ruckus with the Von Mirr family. Kuyosify can be a bit of a hot-head and I'm sure despite everything we all went through he would not be opposed to fighting for new land. Please keep in touch with Celia as well, she keeps a tight watch on him, and I think he's become better for it. From what I've heard, she plays a much bigger role in the affairs of the kingdom now. That's good for her, I feel she needed some control in her life.

I've not seen Minos lately, but Mira also mentions that he's gone and become chieftain of his tribe. He's wed a wonderful woman by the name of Alicia, and she seems like just the woman to keep his head on straight. I hear the ceremony for bonding in their tribe is a rather fierce ordeal, and I wouldn't be shocked to hear if the trials they went through were some of the most intense his people have seen. If they have children, I wonder if he'll enjoy fatherhood as much as he did taking care of Mira when she was younger?

I hope to hear from you soon, but for now I must say farewell. Please keep in touch Roxanne, I'm so proud of who you've become.