[Filter: Philippa]

Once again I must express my regret that I was unable to come to Nallen this past autumn, I would have loved to see you again. I trust things are still going well for you in Emeron? I apologize that it's taken me this long to write to you.

[Filter: Private]

They should be coming home soon, I guess. ...I wonder if I have time to sneak in some work on my sketches before they do. I've studied so hard, and I've kept my notes on that law volume in perfect condition to show Father.

It'll sure be nice to see everyone again...it's only been a few months but somehow it feels like so much longer!

[Filter: Private]

...I haven't given myself much time for my art lately, have I? Studying's been great, I'm glad Father might finally be proud of me for working so hard and it feels good to be working so hard, but...I had so many paintings I wanted to finish before the end of the year. I miss my paints and my sketches, I miss drawing something in this journal and getting feedback from people.

I may finally have won Father's respect and admiration, but I don't want to lose my art in the process.

[Filter: Private]

I must admit, I am starting to get a little lonely. The servants are fine company, but it's not quite the same as Mother, Father and Debby...at least I have my studies to keep me busy. I'm actually closer to being finished with this volume than I thought I'd be, and my notes are looking pretty good! I'll have plenty to discuss with Father when they return...

[Filter: Private]

I sure hope these notes are good enough! I didn't want to copy the whole book, but I keep worrying I left out something important...I hope Father approves, at least. I'll sure be glad to have something to discuss with him, and I'll even understand it!

I think being alone for a while has done me some good...I do feel a little different, a little older.

This book truly is a fascinating read! I've read as much as I can of it every day since the day after the Festival, and I think I understand Dentorian law practices better now than I did before. Thank you again, Father, for such a wonderful present. I've been writing down my thoughts as I go along.

[Filter: Private]

A new man...Mother's right, this is the first time I've ever been on my own like this. I owe it to them, and to myself to prove that I can work just as hard without someone looking over my shoulder. I'll study as hard as I can, and when they return they'll see...well, maybe not a whole new Quinn but definitely a different one.

...and this way, I can sort of make up for lying. I still wish I hadn't had to, but at this point there's no way to undo what happened with Lady Caroline.

[Filter: Mother, Father, Debby]

I hope travel is going well for you. Fortunately, I hear the weather's been quite nice as of late so that should make things pleasant.

I do miss all of you, though.

[Filter: Private]

He's right, of course...ohhh, how do I get myself into these things? If I weren't so dumb about Caroline in the first place...but that's in the past, I can't fix that so it looks like I don't have a choice.

[Filter: Philippa]

I'm afraid I have some bad news, love...

[Filter: Private]

Well...it's now or never, I guess.

[Filter: House Bresa]

[writing is a bit weaker than usual]

Er, I...I regret having to tell you this, but I've been feeling poorly recently. I didn't say anything because I hoped it would pass, but I've been tired, my throat feels scratchy...I'm very sorry! I know you're probably upset with me for not telling you, but like I said I just...hoped it would pass, and I didn't want to worry you!