Mother:

Never trust a drop-out? That's not a very nice thing to say.

If you know who Ivella is, then you should know her relationship to a very important person: Merlin Kent Ogden, practically a legend here in Gentry County. I know that he passed on some years ago. But didn't you know him when you, yourself, lived in Cabotton?

In any case, Ivella means well, even though she no longer attends. The reason she left was because though she is intelligent and well-disciplined, the curriculum at the University simply was not a fit for her. Nonetheless, she is intelligent and well-disciplined. She has sense in how to work with people. And she is quite dedicated to her craft. She, Glenda, and the two others have been running their TableQuest session for quite some time now, even before I started at the University. And they earned quite the reputable business in the process.

I would like to further point out that even though she is a drop-out, she is actually still on good terms with the University Headmaster. So I am in less danger than you think.

Nevertheless, if you're that concerned for me, mark my words: If I sense any sort of trouble or treachery, or any sort of darkfire practice at work, in even the slightest, I will withdraw, and I will protect myself. In fact, I know a very stout vigilante named Mervin Lorens, who will certainly guarantee my safety if need be.

In any case, it is late now, so I am turning in for the night.

Best Regards,

Tom

Sent From Thomas to Deborah Mack via Tele-Typewriting Messenger on 13 June 1243

(Originally Published: 15 March 2023)