Family Letters: Lorenz Rochefort

Letter from Sir Lorenz to Reinolt Froste (Before the invasion of Alendria)

Year of the Emperor 280, Beltane

My dearest Reinolt,

I write to you from the Sitztange Encampment, which is, I assure you, as dreadful as it sounds. The journey here was a parade of indignities—mud, rockslides, and the sort of provincial hospitality that makes one long for the civility of Konigsheim. We passed through towns so quaint they seemed to have been painted by a child with no sense of proportion or taste. The people stared as if we were apparitions. I suppose they’ve never seen a man of value in full regalia.

The battalion is settled, though the accommodations are rustic. I’ve had to make do with a tent that leaks in the morning dew and a cook who believes salt is a luxury. I’ve taken to dining on hard biscuits and the capital wine you thoughtfully gave me. It is a comfort.

There are rumors that some of the western battalions have begun dealings with goblins. Goblins, Reinolt. Can you imagine? I find it utterly barbaric. What next—diplomacy with trolls?

Alendria, I’m told, has a beautiful countryside. If the campaign proceeds as planned, I shall petition my father for a villa. Something with a sunny view, where we might doff our overcoats.

Alaric is here, of course. He is as he always is—stoic, dutiful, and utterly consumed by the weight of command. I sometimes wonder if he even notices the world around him. He speaks little, and when he does, it is with the tone of a man addressing a ledger.

I miss Konigsheim. I miss the salons, the music, and the company. I dream of Frau von Wassenberg's renowned Samhain gatherings. When this is over, we must attend.

Yours in exile,

Lorenz

Letter from Sir Otto to Sir Lorenz (After the Princess Elara Scandal)

Year of the Emperor 280, Beltane

My son,

You write with excuses. I read them with disappointment.

The capital has summoned House Landon to renounce all claim to the throne. The scandal of Elara’s disappearance—by Rochefort hands—has rippled through the court like fire through dry grass.

I have taken ownership of the matter. The name Rochefort will not be dragged through the mud by rumor and silence. But I will not shield you from consequence.

You knew of the dealings. You knew of the goblin terms. You knew what was at stake. And you knew your brother was doubting the orders of his superior nobles. Why did you not report this to me?

I have long tolerated your indulgences, your salons, your performances. I allowed you your masks, believing they served the family. But now the mask has cracked, and I see the face beneath.

This is your burden.

Restore what has been broken. Redeem what has been lost. Find the princess. Return her. Or find another way to restore the honor of this house and the Emperor it serves.

Do not write back with excuses. Do not seek refuge in Konigsheim.

You are my son. And you will act.

Your father,

Otto

Letter from Reinholt Frost to Sir Lorenz (After the Princess Elara Scandal)

Year of the Emperor 280, Beltane

To Lorenz of Haus Rochefort. Greetings.

Yes. I have received your letters. After consideration, I feel it best not to entertain your society this coming Samhain. Being seen with you would cause a lot of difficulties for me. It is already bad enough that I'm asked asked questions by people of reputation about your brother. Circumstances as they are with your family's troubles, please take my advice, do not return to Konigsheim until this distasteful thing is behind you.

Reinholt Frost