Though they had once been terribly close, she had not spoken with her cousin, her childhood friend, in quite some time. Thus, when she awoke to find a letter from him awaiting her, it took her by complete surprise.

It read as follows:

Dearest Cousin,

It has been so long since I have seen you. Are you quite well?

Do you remember those sunny days when we used to play together as children? I think of them often, lately.

I regret that I must inform you that father has died. It was all very sudden, and I am afraid that nothing at all could be done for him. Father and myself went out into the forest to trap a wolf that had snatched many villagers from their beds. Though we killed the beast, he did not return from this excursion, and I myself was gravely injured.

Since father’s death, I have been very lonely by myself, convalescing here on my own. It has been said that you are also alone, and the estate is very large. Would you perhaps do me the courtesy of paying me an extended visit soon? Won’t you come and cheer me by reminiscing about happier times? I shall definitely prepare the castle well for you.

All of my love, 

Kai

It is true that the lonely years passed quickly, and she had long since found herself at an age when most women have already taken a husband. It is also true that she was still very fond of