14th Sun's Height, 582
My darling Tan're,
You will forgive me for addressing you in this fashion. In a perfect world, I would have come to see you in person before leaving off. Though, in a perfect world, I would not have to leave at all.
You are too aware of course, that my mother, lacking other options, turned to the Emberheart family to seek a 'proper' match for me - found in their son, Kalen Emberheart. You are also very aware how little I desire to marry this mer, who, if rumours are to be believed, is as cruel as his father is known to be. But of course, mother had eyes naught for my well being, but for the advancement of the house - as it is true a union of our families would be fortuitous for us both. Which is no doubt why the elder Lord Emberheart agreed to it, and his son perfectly willing to go along without despite my reputation.
And knowing me, my dear Tan're, this would not do. Yesterday was to be the meeting that would seal the arrangement, something that required my presence. My mother was a fool for thinking I'd be in any way cooperative, even after our latest screaming match. She thinks that I can be worn down and so often insists on attempting so, but while that may have worked with father - I am more stubborn than he ever was. So of course, I fled, ran, stole myself away to our favorite beach for the rest of that day and night. I did not return until I knew she would be to rest. For I knew she would be angry, but I know her enough that (normally) allotting time for her to cool down will ease the situation. You and I both know this song and dance well.
Apparently I severely miscalculated this time, Tan're. Even on the morn, with time to level her head, she was livid. It was a screaming match unlike any we've ever had. I'm fairly certain they could hear us all the way in Alinor!
It was a confrontation that nearly ended in bloodshed - and I am not exaggerating. If Gawene hadn't walked in when she did I think mother may have strangled me to death.
Mother stormed off, telling me she was going to speak with the Emberheart's again and that if I did not cooperate this time, she'd make me regret it. This isn't really the first time she's made such a threat - but well, usually they are veiled and ultimately empty (you cannot simply kill your heir after all!). But this time, darling cousin, I knew in my bones that it was not an empty threat.
There is no way I will let myself be bound to a cruel man, no way I will let my spirit be broken. As soon she left, I hurried to pack my things and begone - just what I need and little else. I fled and as of writing this letter, I am hiding in Alinor - the Rosesong's were kind enough to house me and not question why it must be kept secret. Bless them; should you run into any of them the next you are in Alinor, treat them very kindly.
As loathe as I am to do this - I have chosen to depart Summerset. I intend to lay low for a while, establish myself elsewhere (likely Auridon, though I am not wholly certain yet), amass savings so as to not have to worry about depending on anyone, and eventually find some way to return. Perhaps I shall seek out the Antiquarian circle? Or perhaps the mage's guild? We shall see. I am to meet on the morrow with a somewhat mysterious benefactor. Their desires are unclear, the messenger who was sent was tight lipped, but perhaps I can bargain some sort of deal with them. Wish me luck!
Forward your response to Vukhel Guard, as that is likely my first stop regardless of anything else.
All my love, and all my apologies,
Andeyle