The Merchant and Tavern Master

First Letter from Him

"Sofia, there's a letter for you from Takahiko!"

One morning, my mother's voice rang out, calling me just after she had seen off a guest who appeared to be from the local guild. As it turned out, the guest was a member of the Messenger Corps, responsible for delivering letters. The news that Takahiko had sent me a letter filled me with a sense of delight. After all, I was well aware that using the services of the Messenger Corps wasn't an inexpensive affair. Could it be that he was already missing me?

"Mind wiping that cheeky grin off your face, Sofia. You're not the sole recipient of a letter from him. I've received one too, meant for me exclusively. Ayumu also has one. And trust me, it's definitely not the romantic epistle you're envisioning," my mother remarked with a playful smile. I wasn't sure why, but ever since Takahiko and I were betrothed, my mother seemed to take every chance to tease me.

"Oh, and Guinevere also has a letter from him," she added, selecting another envelope. 

What exactly are you up to, Takahiko? What kind of discourse do you intend to have with Guin? You're not trying to engage with her in a clandestine manner, are you?

"Mother, could I take a peek at Guin's letter?" I inquired.

"Absolutely not! It's not within your rights to inspect it," my mother promptly replied.

"B-but as Takahiko's fiancée, shouldn't I have the privilege to be informed about all matters concerning my betrothed?" I attempted to find a loophole.

"What on earth are you prattling on about? Jealousy creeping in just because Takahiko has extended his correspondence beyond you, is that it?" My mother's words struck a nerve, hitting right at the heart of the matter.

"In any case, a no is a no! If you're that curious about the contents, you can ask Guin herself, but only after she's read it first. Is that clear?" My mother's tone carried a note of scolding.

"Yes, Mother..." I replied, feeling considerably deflated.

I confess, ever since that evening when Takahiko kissed me (on my forehead), I've been incredibly anxious. Why did he do it? Could it be that his feelings toward me have begun to change? Was that kiss intended as a gesture of romantic affection between a man and a woman, or was it still simply the innocent peck of a sibling? I'm baffled by my own thoughts... Could this be what he and Mother meant by the "inconveniences" that follow such an experience? My mind has become consumed by thoughts of him, to the point where I find myself dozing off frequently these days. And the fact that I can't even catch a glimpse of him is making matters all the more complicated!

I let out a sigh, realizing there's little I can do about my mother's restrictions. Shaking off my frustration, I redirected my attention to the carefully folded envelope, its seal bearing my name as its sole recipient. How have you been, Takahiko? I wish you'd send me letters more frequently. I carefully broke the seal of the envelope and withdrew the paper nestled within. As I began to read his words, I could almost hear his voice echoing in my mind.

My Dearest Sofia,

I trust this letter finds you in good health. Allow me to be direct – my efforts to uncover leads about your friend Isabelle within the merchant guild's records have yielded little. The name 'Stormborne' has not appeared over the course of these years. Yet, following a path illuminated by a certain associate, I must admit that a troubling prospect emerges: there is a chance that Isabelle has become entangled in the grasp of a malevolent brothel syndicate.

This nefarious ring seems to entrap young girls with the false promise of marrying into prominent families. Considering you mentioned her disappearance has stretched beyond eight months without a trace, if she has indeed become ensnared by this syndicate, it's unlikely that she remains within easy reach.