Dubhaine Family/Brigdha/Roleplays/2008/February

February 6th - Cagil

Brighda sat in the gloom of her bivouac studying the letter. It had arrived as her men were pitching their tents by the river, carried by a messenger from far-off Alebad, and as she took it from his hand and slipped him a couple of silver coins for his trouble she recognised her sister's seal.

Months had passed since Aoifa set off for the colonies and not a word had been heard of her, unlike Moira who sent a constant stream of reports on the war in Fontan: a war in which she had already covered herself in considerable glory. Admittedly Aoifa had never really taken to letters, but surely they had scribes even in that barbarous continent?

"Dearest Brigdha,

I trust the Empire's glory is as untarnished as my memories. Have you heard from Moira? If so then please pass on my best wishes and ask her to contact me.

I have settled in Alebad, one of the capitals of the Southern Theocratic Alliance, and established a small estate on our mother's behalf. This is a wealthy and fertile land but there is much war here. I was recently wounded in a major battle on our northern marches with the realm of Lukon, but I seem to have recovered with indecent haste and am now commanding a fine company of light infantry. I hope we will soon be back on the offensive, but that is in the hands of our generals.

However that is not the reason I am writing. Rather I thought you might wish to hear news of young Cathal, who it seems has followed me to this distant land. I doubt he did so with your knowledge or that of our mother, impetuous lad. Anyway, I heard reports that he had been captured in battle against the realm of Oritolon, but as of yet no further word has come my way. When I catch up with the young pup I'll be certain to remind him of his duty to the Empire and ship him back home on the first available ship.

Affectionately,

Aoifa."

So that was where young Cathal had got himself to. Her mother had lost many nights' sleep over the impulsive lad, and expended considerable gold in making enquiries throughout Atamara. Well at least once Aoifa caught up with him he'd be in good hands. Brigdha was almost tempted to make the journey herself and collect the young rascal, but someone had to stay at home and look after the family's interests...