Verdant Skies

My Dearest Iris,

I trust this letter finds you well, despite the challenges and uncertainties that may surround you. Coating my desk as they are, the reports from our men and even beyond are as dreary as the rain. Despite my love of war, it becomes tiresome with the constant rains and mundane details that fill each report. Yet, amid it all, I've found my beacon of warmth in your words. Each letter you send has become a respite from the harsh reality that consumes us, I find myself looking forward to the days that promise a letter from you.

There's an unexpected solace in our desolate camps, the scent of cinnamon and turpentine fills my nose each time I unfurl your letters. I'm transported through my memories for a brief moment to a time when the air is light, and the sky unmarred by the shadows of conflict. For that brief moment, I can feel you against my side and almost taste you on my lips once more. If there is one thing I wish right now, it is that we could have a repeat of the night before I left if only for another chance to taste you again.

My men send their regards for the potions as they have become relief in these darker moments. Much as you expected, the rain had indeed worn us down far more than expected, but your potions have given us much-needed relief. One of the soldiers made me smile during a passing moment. There was a moment, I could almost hear you in each word spoken which just shows how deeply you've managed to affect me, Iris. Even this far apart, I am still seeing and hearing shadows of you in each corner. In the darkness of the longer nights, I find myself thinking of our lighter moments. Of those nights spent in the upper sitting room, I wonder if you're spending time in there while we're away.

No, I know you're likely in your studio when Kouha isn't dragging you away. I imagine that you're surrounded by canvases both finished and half-done. The vibrant hues of color dancing across them almost takes my breath away even if it's merely an image conjured by my mind. Even in a time like this, the beauty of your art persists. As I navigate the complexities of this campaign, I find strength in the knowledge that you await our return. Your trust is a steadfast anchor, grounding me when the turbulence of war threatens to pull me adrift. Until our paths converge once more, I remain, as ever, yours.

With the deepest affection,

Kouen

Dear Iris,

I hope this letter reaches you in good health and high spirits. The reports from the frontlines indicate that our forces are making steady progress, albeit with the expected challenges that accompany a military campaign. I trust that you are finding ways to keep yourself occupied and that the creative flame within you continues to burn bright. Knowing you though, I've no doubt you've kept yourself occupied even with Kouha's attempt to distract you. I'm wondering if you've picked up any new books on those trips you've been taking. If not, I could send along a list that you could pick up that I know En doesn't have in his library from what I'm able to remember off the top of my head.

The potions you send along have proven invaluable, Iris. Not just for their medicinal properties, but also for the reminder they carry. Each one holds bits and pieces of your expertise and care, I find myself amazed each time I see them being used and realize that yes, you made them. It warms my heart to witness the positive impact your creations have on the soldiers under my command. They are a tangible manifestation of your dedication to the well-being of those around you. It truly shows the depth of your heart...Something I truly miss being able to witness firsthand, I'm eager to return home if only to be with you in your potions room again and witness these potions being made firsthand once more.

These letters have become a welcome respite as of late, the witty remarks you've sent along have given me small moments away from my burdens of leadership and I know En is likely thinking the same thing. Even as the gravity of our current situation tries to sink back in, I find myself smiling as I think of your words. It's a testament to your strength and resilience that you can find moments of levity even amid uncertainty. I often find myself reflecting on the wisdom and warmth embedded in your words. As the days pass, the letters we send to one another become a lifeline that connects us across the distance that separates us. As I read your words, I can almost sense the familiar surroundings of your studio...I can almost feel the sunlight coming in through the windows and hear you humming in my ear. Within my mind's eye, I can almost see your newest creation though the mental image is never clear enough for me...I find my chest aching even as the warmth fills it.

For a moment with these letters, I find a sanctuary-a place where the campaign fades away, and I am by your side once more, Iris. As time passes on and the distance grows larger for the moment, it's reassuring to know that, even in absence, we can find solace in the written word.

With the utmost sincerity,

Koumei

My dearest Kouen,

I trust this letter finds you well, or at least, as well as one can be on the front lines of a campaign. Some news has started to filter into the streets of Kou, Kouha has recently started a small betting pool with Judar about the number of dead that may start to accumulate...Hakuei looked ready to kill them both when she heard about it. When she came here to demand whether I was participating or not, With a straight face, I assured her of my refusal, conveniently omitting the fact that Ginny and I have our own, more colorful bets going on. I figured that information wasn't exactly Hakuei material. Please don't ask for details until we're actually in one another's presence.

On a more serious matter, Gyokuen has tried to offer another invitation to join her at the main palace which I've 'respectfully' declined citing sickness. Thankfully, your staff has been wonderful at helping me play at being sick, they've even fended off that stupid palace doctor. The minute I 'recovered' Kouha and Judar took me for an adventure, so I couldn't go anywhere near the palace. We've been staying busy since which is a relief. Though I've received more letters from 'Joel', I can see the things you've warned me about now. They're becoming more desperate with each letter that has gone without a response. With the last letter I received just this morning, the person left a piece of someone's finger in the bottom. Don't worry too much, I gave it to the staff and they assured me that Koumei's investigation team would see to it.

On a lighter note, I'm irritated with you, Kouen. Writing that stuff while we're miles apart with the distance growing each day? I'd swear you've lost your fucking mind if it weren't for how well put together the damn thing was. I almost want to strangle you, but...that isn't polite. And it would probably be something you'd enjoy now that I think about it. So I've enclosed a little present for you, a simple...sketch to tide you over until we can see one another again.

Now, let me address the matter at hand – your last letter. Kouen, your words bordered on insanity. What possessed you to indulge in such intimate musings while the distance between us expands each day? I'm tempted to throttle you, but decorum forbids such actions. Knowing you, you'd probably enjoy it anyway. In lieu of violence, I've enclosed a modest present – a simple sketch to tide you over until our inevitable reunion. Consider it a token of my exasperation.

With both affection and irritation,

Iris

P.S. I do hope the sketch ignites a certain longing in you, a teasing reminder of what awaits when you return. Perhaps it'll kindle a smidgen of frustration, just enough to make you yearn for more. Until then, enjoy the visual appetizer, my dear Kouen.

(Enclosed within the letter was a carefully drawn sketch, executed with Iris's usual finesse. The subject was an intimate portrayal of herself, a hint of mischief playing in her eyes. The lines gracefully traced the contours of her form, capturing the subtle curves and details that made her uniquely Iris. A playful smile graced her lips, conveying a sense of teasing allure. She had left certain details to the imagination, the suggestive nature of the sketch fueling the imagination to fill in the rest. The image was a testament to her artistic skill and carried a saucy undertone that mirrored the tone of her letter. The mere suggestion in the sketch held the promise of more to come, leaving Kouen to contemplate the artwork's enticing subtleties until their reunion.)

Darling Koumei,

With each letter, I hope the rain finally vanishes though with each reply my doubt increases even with those scarce hours you manage to gain some relief. Each letter you send my way makes it easier to breathe even if my heart becomes heavy knowing that we are growing further apart, I am glad to be of some assistance even if it isn't much. I long for the days when we can sit together at the library again and read together. Hell, I'd even take a chess lesson at this point despite knowing I would be in for a long hour and still lose because at the very least we'd be spending time together. Though I'm eager for you to return home, I can't wait to show you the recipes I've been working on as of late as the others have been sending new ones my way.

While I've sent it along to Kouen, I'll tell you as well. Gyokuen has been trying to offer me invitations to join her at the main palace. Despite my attempts to 'respectfully' decline the invitations, she continues to try and I cannot continue to play sick for much longer even with Kouen's staff assisting me. Kouha and Judar have been taking me on trips around Kou for longer periods than before in an attempt to dissuade her though as time passes I doubt it's working. More letters have drifted in from 'Joel', the warnings you sent along have given me the ability to see the desperate threats within each word. Every letter is becoming worse, Koumei...the last letter-I almost don't want to say it again, but you've likely already have a report on the way from your investigation team. There was a finger inside the letter, Koumei. From what I could tell, it was barely a day old.

Moving onto something lighter and less upsetting as I'd much rather think of more pleasant things, I'm happy that you've found new books to read within that new country. I've been reading through the one you sent along with the last letter and it's been an interesting read. Though I will admit there are some things within it that I don't quite understand, I'm putting small markers within the pages for when you return so we can go over them together. Oh with the next shipment, I'm sending along a few things for you both. While I don't want to ruin the surprise, I will say that I've been toying around in the forge. Oh...Instead of an actual version of the painting I was telling you about, I've enclosed a sketch of it. While it won't compare to the original, I think the colored charcoals I've found do it some justice.

With ever-deepening affection,

Iris.

P.S. I do hope you enjoy the sketch, Koumei. And don't hesitate to show Kouen, he has one as well. Maybe show each other your sketches.

(Enclosed within the letter was a carefully drawn sketch, the colorful charcoal swirled across the parchment in a mimicry of a canvas. Curled within a forest glen, a lone wolf with dark brown fur lay as a riot of flowers bloomed around it. There was something almost playful about the supposedly lonely scene, a small smile formed on Koumei's face as he leaned back against his chair. For the moment, he would leave his elder brother and simply enjoy the sketch as it was.)

My Beloved Iris,

Your letters continue to be a source of warmth amidst the encroaching chill of war. Each one is filled with a tapestry of comfort and longing, they create a small oasis amid the desolate battlefields that we must wander. That sketch you sent with your last letter has found its place on my bedside table, a cherished secret between the parchment and me. Each time I look upon it, I can only marvel at how your artistic prowess shines through even as I wish that you'd left less to the imagination.  But at the very least, it's a reminder of what awaits me beyond this grim campaign, my dear dragoness. 

Each glance towards the image on that piece of parchment only stokes the fire within me, the yearning to be within your presence deepens each day. Even now as I write this and catch a glimpse of your sketch, I find myself almost feeling your touch, the ghost of your warmth against my side, it's almost maddening. As soon as we return home, Iris, I will not allow you to leave my side for long. Not until I've gotten my fill of you, I promise you that.

Had we been home, I would be ensuring that Gyokuen couldn't bother you, but unfortunately, we aren't. I've already sent a letter to Kouha with more suggestions on ensuring that you can avoid the bitch. As for 'Joel', I am glad you've turned the letter and severed finger over to Koumei's investigation team though I'll be speaking with my staff once I return. From now on, I want any letters from this 'Joel' to be turned in to Koumei's intelligence team unopened though I'm sure Mei is already working to ensure the letters are heading to his team rather than to you.

Onto more pleasing matters, the apparent gift you sent along with the most recent pair of letters. While I knew that you had a certain level of skill in the forge, it didn't register until now just how talented you are. These daggers you've seen fit to gift to myself and Koumei are exquisite, the weight of them is perfectly balanced for my hand, and the pattern is so finely crafted that I can see your artistry within them. Whether it be to cause bloodshed or to craft something of great beauty, you hold the capacity to create wonderful things, Iris. And my heart swells to know that one of the first things you've decided to craft since coming to Kou was a gift not only for myself but for Koumei as well, I cannot thank you enough. 

Looking at these daggers and seeing the dragons imprinted within the blades, I find myself thinking of you. Of the strength that you carry, the resilience and unwavering spirit held within your heart, I will carry these blades with pride knowing that they were made by your hands. From this moment on, they will be a silent promise of the bond we share. Until the day we are reunited, I remain, as always, yearning for your touch.

With the deepest affection,

Kouen

Dear Iris,

As the days go by, your letters continue to be a welcome respite. A shimmering light that cancels out the shadows that cloak our days.  The sketch you've shared has found a place on my admittedly crowded desk. Looking at it, I find my spirit lifting even during the worst days which can only be a testament to your artistic prowess and a reminder of the vibrant spirit that you carry. Even as we sit miles apart from one another, I find myself amazed to see just how your artistic talent seems to grow with each piece I witness. 

Looking at the scene you've captured, I can only long to see it in person. The lone wolf amidst a riot of blooming flowers looks wonderful in charcoals, but I've no doubt the true painting must look hauntingly beautiful. During the times when I can take a few moments to myself, I look towards the sketch and contemplate the layers of emotion beneath the charcoal strokes. Each one is a reflection of your soul-a delicate balance between strength and vulnerability, solitude and beauty. With each new contemplation, I find myself treasuring the sketch more. 

While I am not one for weaponry, I am thankful for the daggers you've sent, Iris. Even now, I find myself running a careful hand along the etchings you've created within the blade. How you've managed to craft Dantalion's constellation...know of it enough to do so, I'm blown away as is she. You've officially become her favorite person. My heart warms knowing that you probably took a long time considering what to etch into these blades. From now on, they will accompany my fan and act in my defense when I cannot use my Djinn. 

On a more serious note, my investigation team is looking into the severed finger though little has been figured out as of yet. I along with Kouen have instructed that any letters from this 'Joel' be confiscated to be on the safe side. I am grateful that you've been taking this matter seriously, Iris. I have also sent along instructions to ensure that Kouha can continue to act as a buffer for you. I'm so sorry that we cannot be there to assist you. 

Navigating the complexities brought about by war is draining, I've found my anchor in your letters and gifts, Iris. Even in the potions that you send along for our soldiers, I find myself growing excited for the days that I know they'll arrive. Until the day our paths converge once more, I remain steadfast in my thoughts of you. Even now that we are miles apart, I cherish these silent echoes of our connection. 

With Profound Affection,

Koumei

My Beloved Kouen,

With each passing letter, you seem to become more eloquent and nearly indecent within the pages. Though with the grim backdrop that you're surrounded by, I find myself unsurprised. Somehow it doesn't surprise me that the sketch found its way to your bedside table, I'd be a blushing mess if you put it anywhere one of your soldiers could find it. Though at that point, I'd say you were actively trying to find ways to punish them. At least with it close at hand during the nights, you'll have a small companion to ward off the loneliness that must accompany the darkness of your nights. Though...I didn't leave everything to the imagination intentionally...perhaps I'm trying to test the limits of your creativity.

There was no mistaking the longing within your words, Kouen. Even the sketch I sent you is but a fraction of the reality you anticipate, the warmth you seek is palpable only when our paths finally intertwine once more. Reading your promise to keep me by your side once we see one another again, I...I'm almost eager. I await the day when you finally return though please remember that you aren't the only one I wish to see when that happens, Dearest one. Make the plans that you wish though be sure to include room for Mei, I do not intend to be separated from him for very long once you both return.

So there was a reason Kouha changed things up as of late, I had wondered though...I doubt even with your assistance that we can keep things up, En. Gyokuen will try to force a meeting soon enough. Hakuei has come to me with tears in her eyes and apologized for her mother's misdeed. She didn't know about the poison. I assured her that the only one I fault was Gyokuen and I was alright. But as you both requested, I kept quiet about my immunity to the poison. In recent days, I haven't seen any more letters from 'Joel' though the maids have been muttering about someone attempting to visit the palace repeatedly. Despite my attempts to listen in, I can never really get anything more than that. To be on the safe side, I've begun carrying around more of my hidden daggers even while within the palace and never lingering outside within the gardens for long. 

Onto more pleasant business, I'm glad that you loved my gift and will cherish it which is what I always want for my work. It brings a smile to my face to know that you were touched by my gift and I'm pleased that you love it. You practically took the words from my mouth, En. These daggers are a promise from me to you, a silent one...Hold them tight and know that a part of me is with you through them. Until we see one another again, I await the day you return. 

With a touch of sarcasm and the deepest affection,

Iris

Darling Koumei,

Each letter paints a vivid picture within my mind of just how deeply my letters have come to mean to you during these dreadful times, I'm heartened to know that I can assist for even a moment. Knowing that a simple sketch is making you smile brings me a small amount of pleasure, I almost don't want to apologize for it taking up some of the precious room that lies on your crowded desk. At the very least, it can lift your spirit even during moments when my letters have yet to arrive. Though my cheeks burn at hearing your observation of it, I almost don't want to hear your opinion of the actual piece. 

But yes the true piece is rather melancholic,  the commissioner is something of a melancholic beauty herself and asked me to paint something to represent her that wasn't human. Based on your words, I believe I've managed to capture the image quite well though I'll have to wait until the day after this letter is finally set off to find out. Part of me hopes she doesn't like it, I want to keep the painting in my studio until you come home if only to see what your opinion of it is. But that would be disappointing, I want this painting to find its way home and I've made a few others that I'm looking forward to discussing with you in person. 

Apparently, Kouen has gifted Kouha with new instructions on keeping Gyokuen away, I am thankful though I've my doubts on how long it will last even with his assistance. Hakuei came by this morning with tears in her eyes which I never thought I'd actually see. For almost an hour, she apologized to me and I finally managed to drag out that she'd learned that Gyokuen had tried to poison me. It took me a while, but I finally managed to assure her that I didn't blame her. Only Gyokuen is at fault, I kept my mouth shut about my immunity when she finally registered that I was in good health. Instead, I informed her that my potions were good for more than curing illness of the body.

With the 'Joel' situation, I'm assuming your information team has been stealing away the letters before they have had a chance to find their way to me. That assumption is mostly based on the fact that I haven't seen one in a week, I've little complaint on that front and only really feel relief. But I believe a new problem is on the rise, I've warned Kouen via his letter, but I feel you must know as well. While I haven't seen it myself, the maids have been muttering among themselves about someone trying to visit the palace repeatedly despite being turned away. Even with my attempts to listen in, I've been unable to get any more information than that. Rather than run the risk of another assassination attempt, I've begun carrying around more of my hidden daggers while within the palace and never lingering within the gardens for longer.

Onto more pleasant business, you aren't wrong about the dagger taking a long time. While other constellations grabbed at my eye, I figured you would appreciate it if I used Dantalion's. And I'm glad she loves it as well, I know that weapons are not something you enjoy wielding, but I'm aware that in war you need to have something to defend yourself with. There won't always be time for you to use Dantalion, I don't want to risk you being unable to defend yourself even if Chu'un or En are there to guard your back. It warms my heart knowing that you've accepted them, Mei. Know that they are a promise from me, a silent one...I hope they may guard your back in my absence. 

Perhaps as I read my next book or paint another painting, the ghost of you will sit beside me again.

With Warmth and Affection,

Iris