Greetings Mr. Fidochi
I am indebted to you for taking on my case. The disappearance of my dear friend is perturbing, especially considering her most vulnerable situation. Tied up as I am in Beste, it is of great relief to know someone is looking into this.
As per the details you requested, I will endeavour to give you my best description. Trosyn is short of stature and stout of body. Her hair is a most unusual shade of red, like some of the northerners. She is freckled and has some pock marks on her face. Her eyes are light. Her age is unknown, as I was always too delicate to ask a lady such an impolitic question, but I dare say she is not yet forty springs. Her manners are gentile, although her apparel would likely be humble as she is not a woman of means or property. Last we spoke she was in an interesting state, although by now I imagine she'd be delivered of her burden.
She was staying at one of the Peregrine lodges in Floratti as a tenant of one Mrs. Dobby. It was Mrs. Dobby who alerted me of her disappearance and I am sure an interview with her would provide you with clearer details than I could. Trosyn had been terminated from her job at a cotton mill a couple months ago and I don't know where else she found employment. I was sending her a pittance to help pay her way until she could find other means, but I fear it may have been insufficient.
It is a matter of some urgency that I learn of her whereabouts and can verify that she is, indeed, safe. I entrust my peace of mind to you, Mr. Fidochi.
Regards,
V. Gustello
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My dear fellow,
How have you been? So, Colto turned down a great opportunity due to his wife's failing health, and they have moved to a climate better for her well being. What a pity. Despite being younger, he was as sharp as the best of us.
I mostly write to thank you, my dear Baldovo, for recommending to me that inquiry agency. I knew not such places existed. I have enlisted the aid of one Mr. Fidochi, and I am apprehensive for his success. I was a little concerned about how much information to give him regarding Trosyn and her origins. I know you and Colto both are sceptical about large portions of her tale. You in particular still refuse to believe in spirits or that she had any sort of power, even when she was able to speak Flori and Andelese without being taught. I also know that we agreed we would not publish anything from her story and stick strictly to our empirical findings. However, it concerns me with how little I can say to express how imperative it is that she is found. If it is true about her child, then there is no telling what will happen. I wish she had not declined the offer to come stay with my sister and I. What do you think I ought to do?
This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.
I am also writing to accept your offer of a recommendation for the upcoming marine project with Dr. Lamal. While my studies have not been particularly focused on ichthyology, I do believe this sampling of coastal fish in addition to silt deposits could be fascinating. Especially since the specimens will be brought to me and I won't have to go on another ghastly voyage. I know they approached you, but you sounded as though you were inclined to pass on this opportunity.
Is it true that you may be heading back to the Blazing Crescent on an Andellian ship? I know it is all in the service of the Empire, but I find it quite odd they are sending one of their own ships rather than rely on Lomany. Surely they aren't taking the Separatists too seriously. They've been at it for decades. I am often criticised by their lot for being too Andellian and lacking the fire of a true Lomanian. Oh. But I don't wish to dwell too much on that.
I look forward to reading your next letter.
Sincerely,
Volente
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Mr. Gustello
This is a confirmation that your letter was received. I have already arrived in Floratti. The investigation will begin immediately. This Trosyn Nytt can't be hard to find. Your first payment will be expected soon.
Send me more information; the quicker I resolve this the better. You said that you two corresponded often. Forward some of her letters so that I can piece together a bigger picture. Rest assured, sensitive information will be treated with discretion. A man's reputation is of greater value than a pile of bank notes.
A good starting point will be interviewing Mrs. Dobby. Then any leads fom that can be followed up.
I await your next letter.
-G.F.
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Ahoy!
Volente, you soporific caudle-bibber. Writing back this soon may give the impression that you have no life. But yes, I will be returning to the Crescent to pave the way for Andellian glory! That cove Trosyn mentioned must be found before the Kastirads! Fame and fortune is riding on this discovery, and I'll be buggered if I don't get a piece of it. Politics are not for the faint of heart.
Don't worry, the agency will find Trosyn and you'll realise you were getting worked up over nothing. You always fancy something terrible is afoot. Pluck up. And don't worry, I'll be sure to talk you up to Dr. Lamal. You could use the funding. I bet Trosyn has been milking you like a buffalo. I warned you she would. But then, you seem rather immune to good sense. Ah, but there is nothing to be done for that, is there?
There's a lot to be done before the voyage. Try not to worry too much. It can be a real killer, they say.
Regards,
Baldovo D.