'My dear and darling Leo,
'I am sorry to have caused you to worry. I'm fine, and Ronfar and Mauri have been dears. It has been so very exciting, too! Leaving the cottage in such a rush I barely had time to take our tree; leaving you such a drastic and horrid little note on the end of the last letter; waiting with bated breath for my home to become safe again... I've so enjoyed the adventure, though I know it's a serious and dangerous time.
'It seems the band of outlaws moved into my cottage. Ronfar says they likely hoped to capture me, but what nonsense! I've nothing of any importance, except to you, darling. They likely just wanted my cottage as protection from the coming storms - Please dress warmly, dear knight. A snow is coming toward you. - and knew that my home was the nearest to the forest. At least you know for certain where they are. Won't this greatly help your position with the Brotherhood? I do hope so, because I miss your voice and eyes. Being so surrounded by things of your childhood is bittersweet. I have so many questions for you about the younger Leo... and yet I can't ask and hear and listen to you as you tell them. Mauri understands and does her best to imitate your voice while telling tales, but she knows it isn't the same.
'She's been such a great help to me during our separation. I love her as the sister I never had.
'Darling, I'm sorry for moping. I'll stop and give you a happy and joyous letter.
'Mauri and I started a new garden in her back yard. We've plotted a path through the center and a small gazebo with a darling little bench in the center. Ronfar has also promised to help dig and fill a little pond at the southwest corner. Mauri is so very excited to watch the garden bloom, and even Ronfar doesn't seem to mind helping me plan and build the gazebo.
(smudges) 'I had best go, my darling Leo. Thinking of Mauri and Ronfar working together in the garden and hearing their laughter now only makes me think of you and our time together, and I don't wish my letters to make you sad. I love you so, dear knight. Always and forever,'
Violette