Elise’s letter to Edouard shortly after moving to Golddell with Seanian (and Arvan)

To Edouard Gernand
Blaine Castle
Landcastle

Dear Edouard—

A week after Seanian and I returned from visiting his ancestral home Farson Keep, the Winter Herd and their mara clan arrived at Golddell Castle because the nightmara ruler Queen Nightsnow wished to meet the new wife of the royal councilor representing Golddell and internal relations. Within moments of meeting me, Nightsnow said she could see why Seanian married me and called us true mates. Naturally, I asked her what true mates were since I’ve never heard of them, and I was delighted by her answer.

Apparently, true mates are aligned minds with the potential for deep and lasting love. Nightmara and their mara clans treasure finding that bond, so they greatly esteem those who have it. If their true mate isn’t part of their herd, dominant mares even call their true mate once they reach maturity since having him by their side helps them be better and stronger rulers. However, not just nightmara possess true mates. Other creatures, including humans, do as well, although they don’t often use the term.

Needless to say, I was thrilled that Seanian and I are true mates. It certainly explains why many of our thoughts and feelings align, why we both required friendship before love and love before desire, and why I fit in Seanian’s orderly life like I was always meant to be there. And I hope you one day find the same joy with your own true mate, my dear twin.

Now, please write all the news from Blaine Castle. Your last letter was woefully short. Or perhaps we should begin exchanging mirror calls instead? A conversation might make it easier to get words out of you.

All my love to you, Father, and Kit. (Yes, I expect you to convey that to our stepmother without scowling.)

Love,

Elise

Lady Farson
Golddell Castle
Golddell