A Sixth Letter from a Black Bird

Dear Osiris,

It would be improper for me to dance with you, so I'm afraid I must decline. Besides, have you yet to find yourself a fiancé? I think you must focus on that first, unless you want to turn into an old, dour, unhappy king withering away in your walls with your five children, married to a woman that doesn't like you.

I suppose I'm being a hypocrite, though. I myself have yet to find a girl.

This job feels like drudgery, digging into some random family's past. I'm glad I have given you more evidence to use against the Tarnin family. Unfortunately, I myself haven't. Whatever spies I sent in cannot report anything. I suppose my last one is coming back at midnight today, so I might find something after the masquerade.

Speaking of the masquerade, this dilettante man told me I should wear a black mask with embedded red roses and jewels. I suppose his advice wasn't that bad, considering he seemed like he had never even seen a masquerade before. But, instead of roses, my tailor insists on putting red spider lilies. I suppose you can guess how I'll look.

I wonder how Lady Meril is doing inside the dungeons. Has she met with her brother yet? Their parents must be fuming. Can they compose themselves at the trial?

About social matters, I am quite fluent in speaking to crowds. You must use some duplicity in your stance, craft your words in a way that suits you. Have many cards in your hand, and many tricks up your sleeve. Appeal to the crowd as well, be delicate and kind-hearted, so people think of you better. That way, they'll bite harder when you're in trouble.

I've already received ten or so letters asking about my health after the ball. Who do these people think I am, a crying, crippling mouse? She just called me delirious, how paranoid do you think I am? Certainly not. I'm very mentally stable.

Except perhaps I do start seeing things if I am stuck inside my room for too long, but that just means I need to go outside.

The letters are entertaining to read. They seem to think I'm a fragile little bird, and I can hear their intent to win me over and use me. But I'm not that stupid, I can read. Here, I've attached a letter with this one. (Hopefully you don't mistaken the two, I know your reading skills are not as proficient as mine~)

I must leave my domicile now, to go see you at the parade,

Easter.