After a rather hectic morning and a long discussion with Amelyn, the Gypsy crept up the stairs of the Red Dragon Inn silently, moving slowly to the door she had always seen him come out of. Gently she placed the palm of her hand into the wood structure, her brow falling down to kiss the smooth, cool panel. It had been only a few days but after her scare, who could blame Vera for this sudden outpouring of emotion"

The good news is no one was around to see it, or the fingertip that slipped up to the corner of her eye, catching at the moisture gathering. No, no one would see this and know. Vera had a strict rule about crying. She never cried, never, well "

Never in front of anyone.

Crouching down she placed a silver bag, the kind you buy from a Hallmark store at the foot of the door. There was tissue paper sticking out from it, a light baby blue, soft and easy to tear away. From the bag she withdrew a letter and slipped it beneath the door. Standing back she took in a breath, thought about knocking, but instead turned on her heel and went the way she came, descending those same stairs.

The Letter:

Mateus,

I hope this finds you well. I am going off for the holidays to Romania, to be with my family and meu fiica. I should be back no later than Monday morning. I was trying to catch you since I still have your diadem that you've left in my hands. I find that terribly lax in a ruler when he leaves behind his crown. And in a peasant's hands no less!

And that had better bring a smile to that serious, stoic face, you know I am joking.

I have missed you dearly.

I've bought you two books, they're wrapped in the bag, waiting for your eager hands. From what you told me I believe you will like them. I miss you. I know, I've said that already but I do. I miss you.

I could drag this out longer but I know what a busy man you are.

Your Nerishtal

I want to do with you what spring does with the cherry trees.