Memory 3: Letter of Recommendation

To Sister Nimue of the Chamber,

I write to you regarding a new student in my evening prayer group. His name is Thomas Langton, a dockworker by trade, and he approached me last week with a request to join our temple’s spiritual instruction. I confess, my initial impression was one of caution. He is young, and his request seemed born of whim rather than discernment. It is difficult to tell if he understands the weight of the vocation.

During our first few gatherings, Thomas spoke to other members more than is customary. He filled quiet moments between vigil prayers with chatter—earnest, well-meaning, but disruptive. I reminded him that silence is not merely etiquette; it is the vessel of prayer. Noise clouds the soul and deafens the ears of the goddess. He apologized sincerely and has since made efforts to observe the form.

However, it is not his behavior that compels me to write, but something I witnessed during our last session. When we pray with sands and water, as is tradition, the waters which he prays over glimmer and separate, as if parting to the sounds of his speech. This may not seem unusual in the Chamber, where divine resonance is more common, but in my class of novices it is not usual.

I believe Thomas may require deeper training. His presence stirs something in the rites, and I lack the expertise to guide him further. I appeal to your wisdom, Sister Nimue. If you find time to observe him, I would be grateful.

In salt and silence,

Alura of the Temple of the Third Tide in Stella Maris

Response from Sister Nimue

To Chaplain Alura,

Thank you for your letter and for your attentiveness to the spiritual formation of your students. I appreciate your concern regarding Thomas Langton and the phenomena observed during your rites.

At present, my responsibilities within the Chamber do not allow for direct involvement in novice instruction. However, should Thomas wish to continue his inquiry, I recommend he attend the Lunar vigil held beneath the east bridge below the Chamber. This vigil is conducted by the Chamber clergy. He is welcome to attend, pray in the back, and remain silent. Should further resonance occur, the clergy present will be equipped to note and respond accordingly.

In tide and trust,

Sister Nimue of the Chamber of Stella Maris