Letters Between Cousins: Aric & Triston

[Aric Demarais]

Triston,

I'm sure, by now, word has reached you about Edward. Myself, Eleesa and her sons have grieved, but there is a more pressing matter at hand now that I must turn my full attention to. One that you are probably already dealing with even before this letter is placed in your hand.

I do not wish to take the regency, only if it's the last possible resort. As part of the council, and one of very few I feel that I can trust, I'm looking for your help and support in this. I would very much like this to go to Eleesa, but we both are very aware how difficult a task that would be to make happen. If it's even possible to make happen. I want to make this burden as light as possible for her, and so I ask in earnest, who is the council hoping to appoint? Will you be vying for it?

Do not think I write this to accuse or even further burden you, but these questions must be asked. My sister-in-law will need all the help she can get, and what she rightfully deserves. I cannot leave young Edward's future, as well as the future of Tresteria, in the hands of just anyone. So, I wonder, dear cousin...are you up for the task should it come down to it?

Sincerely,
Aric

[Triston deGrey]

Triston received the letter from his cousin late in the evening.  The seal was broken and he carefully read the words on the parchment.  He had always liked Aric and the letter was quick to remind him why.  The man was intelligent, kind and thoughtful, much different from his brother, Edward, and Triston appreciated that. 

Several people at court, aside from his mother and William, had come to him and asked him if he were thinking of vying for the regency.  He had not given anyone a direct answer because he honestly wasn't certain himself.  He wanted to wait to find out what Aric had in mind, and if Eleesa could somehow take over the throne.  

Well, he had his answers now.  After careful thought, Triston sat down and wrote a response to Aric.


Aric,

Thank you for your letter and for thinking of me.  It means a great deal to have your friendship, trust and support.  
We have heard of the passing of Edward, and I am deeply sorry for your loss.  I was shocked to hear this was Renaud's doing, but also relieved as now the regency will not be falling into his hands.  This in itself would have been devastating to Tresteria and the family.  Please thank whomever (including yourself) for discovering him as a traitor.  

As you have probably suspected, the council is in an uproar panic on who should take regency until young Edward is of age.  Unfortunately, there has been no certainty of those who are thinking of running. From what I have overheard and witnessed, Bolton, Aunders, and Nealson have all shown or spoken interest.  None of which I trust, and do not think should be mentors to your nephew.  But that is my opinion.  

While I agree with you that Eleesa very much deserves this regency, you are right--it would be difficult to make that happen.  The council has already spoken against it, claiming she is a woman and unfit for the job.  Also because no women has ever sat on the throne in Tresteria since 'the beginning of time'.  I will do everything I can to try and convince them otherwise, but I fear I will not get very far in this. 

To answer your question regarding whether or not I am vying for the regency...I am sure it would come no surprise to you that my mother and my older brother, William, have been urging me to.  I did not wish to act on it because I felt the regency was rightfully Eleesa's or yours. 
You know I have much respect and love in my heart for both our family and Tresteria, and I would do anything for both.  If you are saying you are not accepting regency, and you are asking me to step up, then I will, but only if.   I am humbly honored you have thought to ask me, and I hope, should it come down to it, that I would do the crown and kingdom justice as regent.  

I hope you are well and have safe travels.  We are looking forward to seeing you, and meeting your wife (if you have brought her along with you.)  Take care, dear cousin.

Sincerely, 

Triston