To Mr. Fidochi
I was scandalised when you suggested I provide you with something as personal as Trosyn's communications! These are in confidence between her and I. But perhaps it may be in her best interests. I have written out copies of her last three letters and entrust them to you. Understand there will be references to people or places that do not make sense or may seem surprising. Surely, you will be a man of your word and treat these with the delicacy they deserve.
Have you made the acquaintance of Mrs. Dobby yet? Such an agreeable lady. Make sure she knows who sent you. She looks out for the many foreigners that lodge with her, and may be otherwise suspicious of inquiries without such an introduction.
I am eager to hear your next update. And do not worry, you will also be sent a bank draft that will direct you to the appropriate branch.
Regards
1. Gustello
Enclosed(4)
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Dearest Volente,
Sounds like you and Baldovo had an interesting reunion. I am glad he looped you in and you could collaborate again. I know sometimes his mannerisms are boorish, but he's not an all bad fellow. I found him quite amusing on the voyage. I appreciated that he challenged me and had some healthy scepticism. Not that I don't also value your willingness to believe in me. Not many have.
So Colto has another child on the way? I'm glad you keep me abreast of all the latest news of my favourite researchers. As for my own new arrival, I have finally found a midwife. She's helping me conceal my situation safely so that I can continue working at the cotton mill. It's not the best work, but it keeps me fed. The fluff gets in my hair, in my clothes, and up my nose. Recently while speaking with some of the other workers, I found out I was being paid a lower wage than everyone else. I at first thought it was because I was new, but a newer girl is paid more. I didn't dare question it. Getting that job was hard enough. I just keep reminding myself that at least I am paid, and at the end of the day, I am free to do as I please.
A couple nights ago I decided to push my new found freedom a little too far. I stayed out past curfew. Mrs. Dobby makes no exceptions, and so I was locked out for the night. I wasn't very panicked though. It just reminded me of my childhood, when I lived on the streets. It wasn't until I reminded myself that this was not Roneon that I grew fretful. And being on the streets as an adult was a very different experience from being a homeless child. When I was little people looked at me with mistrust, but also pity. As an adult, there was nothing but contempt and blame. Some people mistook me for a lady of the night. Do not worry yourself. I managed to keep myself safe. There were close calls, but in the end I was able to remember some of my street smarts and find a safe place to shelter for the night, but slept with one eye open.
I hope we can meet up the next time your work takes you to Floratti. Maybe I'll finally tell you the tale of Sir Benold and Baron Blair.
If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
Affectionately,
Trosyn
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My Dear Friend,
Your letter arrived at just the right moment to cheer me up. Despite my best efforts to conceal my growing belly, there was only so much I could do. Mrs. Spinotti realised my situation and immediately dismissed me for indecency. I was not even given my wages for that week. She had a most frightening countenance, and I believe had there not been an audience, she would have dragged me out by my hair. I have some money set aside, but it won't take me far. I may have to take to begging if I can't find another position.
I'm sorry. You are probably fretting already. Don't worry. I'm a survivor and will make do, somehow. But it is calming to write out my woes to someone who will listen. Although by the time you read this I will probably have found some sort of solution to my current predicament.
It is sobering to think about not just myself, but the life I am carrying. What can I really offer? The truth is, I don't know what will happen when the time comes. I don't quite understand the local religion, but I've come to learn that their holy women will take in orphans. But what of children whose parents aren't dead? I was in an orphanage but we were not treated well. I don't think it was the fault of the women who raised us, there just wasn't enough food or beds. And with so many of us dying, I think they guarded themselves against caring for us because it was too painful.
Well I am going to spend today feeling sorry for myself, but tomorrow morning I will go out seeking work. Don't worry, I will take breaks and wear the shawl you sent me. Your sister does magnificent needlework. I should like to meet her, some day.
Take care, Volente.
Sincerely,
Trosyn
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Dear Volente,
Once again you have brightened up my day. Thank you for your concerns and kind letter. You say that Colto is leaving Lomany? I did not know that his wife was Andellian. It must be nice to be able to travel to different places within this Empire with ease. I'm guessing they won't be going to Andell itself as I've heard it described as cooler than Lomany, and humid too. It sounds much like Siperon. I hope that a drier place will do her some good. He is such a dear, accepting a humble teaching position to take care of his family. I have always had respect for Colto.
As for me, you needn't fuss or worry over me. I am still in good health, all things considered. I'm tired more frequently, but the midwife says this is not unusual. I lost my mother so long ago, and have been in the care of men so long that I've never had a woman to teach me many things. I am learning a lot and am fearless in asking questions. I laugh when I think of the shocked expression my midwife, Nona, wore when I asked a certain question. Don't worry, I won't give you the details. For a man of science you have a stunning lack of curiosity when it comes to certain topics. Don't frown. I'm just teasing.
I was surprised when Mrs. Dobby told me I didn't owe her full rent. You wouldn't have something to do with that, would you? If not for my coming child I would refuse your help and insist I find my own way, but as it is, I warmly express my gratitude. I know you are not as affluent as your older brothers, so anything you spare for my sake is truly appreciated.
I also thank you for the offer to come live with you and your sister. I know that with your sister present, she could act as a chaperone and make things proper. But even then, having an unmarried, pregnant woman stay with you would create scandal, would it not? Because you have no inheritance, I understand you need to be more careful. If anything Benold taught me, is that ideals and morals come second to societal mores.
Well I need to get a move on. I have some heavy decisions to make, and time is running out to make them. I wish you well, Volente.
Yours truly,
Trosyn