Stories Left Untold

7th of Celesta, 1521

My dearest Theo,

It's been two weeks since I last heard from you, and I'm trying not to panic. I keep telling myself that there must be a reason for the delay, that you're just busy with the fighting, but it's getting harder to believe that with each passing day. You said you were on the frontlines and that an attack had been imminent. I hope you are alright.

I go to the village square every morning, hoping to see the post rider coming up the road with a letter from you. But each day, I return home empty-handed, and the weight of the silence grows heavier. The village has been buzzing with news though their mostly rumors, but some of it has come from newspapers that have finally made their way to Mistveil. There was a large battle near the city of Verdonia, one of the biggest engagements of the war so far. The papers said it was a victory for our side, but at a terrible cost. They mentioned heavy casualties, and I can't help but wonder if you were there, if you're safe.

Ravi and Lyra have noticed that something's wrong. They're trying to keep their spirits up, but I can see the worry in their eyes. Ravi keeps asking if there's any news. Lyra, on the other hand, has become so quiet and has almost stopped asking altogether, which scares me even more. She used to chatter endlessly, but now she just sits by herself, lost in thought. She still asks about you when she does speak, but her questions have become fewer, and it breaks my heart to see her so subdued.

Ravi has been doing his best during these times. He feels that he has to take on more than ever with winter coming with so little hands. How much responsibility can such a young man take? He's taken on the task of ensuring that everyone has enough food and that the fires are always burning to keep the cold at bay. Ravi has even started helping Mr. Harlan at the forge in his spare time, learning the blacksmith's trade. It keeps him busy, and I think it helps him cope with everything that's happening. He wants to be able to send what he has made for you to protect yourself. My heart is breaking.

I've been visiting the glade more often, sitting by the old oak tree and trying to remember the sound of your voice, the way you smiled. But the memories are starting to blur, and that frightens me. I need you to come back, Theo. I need to know that you're safe.

Please, if you can, write to me. Even just a few words to let me know you're alright. Your letters are what hold me together when the mummer's of war spread. I'm holding on to your promise, but it's getting harder with each day of silence.

With all my love,

Nova

21st of Naluna,1521

Dear Theo,

It's been a month since I last heard from you. I've been writing to you every week, hoping that one of my letters will reach you, but there's been nothing. The village is buzzing with rumors about the war once more, about a major battle near the border, and I'm terrified that something has happened to you.

The papers reported on a clash in the Nivarian Hills, where our forces were caught off guard by a surprise attack. They say the fighting was fierce, with heavy losses on both sides. I read every word, trying to find any hint that might tell me where you are, if you're safe. But the news is so vague, and it only makes the silence harder to bear.

I've tried to stay strong, to keep faith in your promise, but the silence is unbearable. I don't know what to do anymore. Every day feels like an eternity, and I find myself jumping at every sound, hoping it's news of you.

The village is changing, Theo. The fear is palpable now. A few of the men who have come of age have left to join the fight, and those who remain are on edge. A few of the village women whose husbands have gone have volunteered to be healers and others to help with the tasks. The last harvest was poor due to the cold , and there's talk of shortages as winter begins in earnest. People are scared, and I can see it in their eyes. I am scared along with them.

I am doing my best to keep a bit of sanity for the children's sake. Ravi increases in wanting to take on others' responsibility and even mine when I am too worried to concentrate, I can see the strain it's putting on him. Lyra is quieter than usual, spending more time alone. I think she's afraid, just like I am, but she doesn't know how to express it. I feel that I can no longer support them when I can't even support myself.

I've been visiting the glade every day now, hoping that the peace of the place will bring me some comfort but it's not the same without you. The oak tree is now barren, reflecting how I am feeling inside. The memories of happier times are fading, and I'm terrified that I'm losing you, even in my thoughts.

Please, Theo, if you can, send a word. Anything. I need to know you're out there, that you're still fighting, that you're coming back to me.

With all my love,

Nova