26-03-YC121

I write this by lamplight in a makeshift medical facility on Anath IV.  My darling Constantin lies asleep beside me on a pallet of unused tents, though he is so tired I dare say even the ground would be comfortable.

I had no choice, I must confess.  I followed my heart and came here without even trying to seek permission, for I knew I must see him again, I felt that he needed me; and so he did!  When I arrived he was so focused on his tasks, compiling the lists of the deceased for The Book of Records, that he did not even notice when I called his name.  He even walked away, and did not see me until he turned around and looked directly at me.  Oh, I had hoped the sight of me would have lifted his heart, but my brave, noble Constantin broke and wept.  He thought I was merely a dream, an apparition, and the fear that I was on the verge of disappearing was too much for him.

I held him as closely as I could, stroked his hair, and soothed him, did I all in my power to prove that I was no figment, but was there before him as real as I could be.  Oh, My Darling, what trials have you put yourself through that you should be thus?  As you have tended to others, so I shall tend to you.

Then Aldrith gave comment.

I did not even know he was on Anath IV, nor why he should be so!  Yet there he was, with his entourage of bodyguards and the strangest smirk on his face, as though he were checking on Constantin and I.  I see him now, drifting - no, drifting is not the correct word - stalking, like a predator, through the room, glancing from time to time at the two of us.  I cannot fathom his thoughts, and I am sure he must have some reason to be here other that to watch over me, and yet, that sly look he gives me.  Is it jealousy?  That seems unlikely, for unlike myself, Aldrith is far too self-assured for that base emotion.  Judgement, then?  Is he deciding whether or not he approves of Constantin and I?  If so, I do not think it is his place to say, for my parents have approved, and it is only their opinion that matters.  Besides, what is there of Constantin to disapprove of?  He is loyal and devoted to God and the Empire, and a valuable member of SFRIM - I hardly think Directrix Aspenstar would have chosen him had she not seen his trustworthiness.

Perhaps Aldrith thinks our relationship has moved too quickly, and I suppose that is true.  No doubt others do too, yet I truly believe I have found love of the purest kind.  TIme will tell, no doubt.  I am happy for now, and I believe Constantin is too, and so long as that remains, then I shall hold it dear.  Mama and Papa say that for them it was love at first sight, so I know such things may happen, though so very rarely.  Is it too much to dare to hope that the same has come to pass for Constantin and I?

My Love is sleeping soundly - the first time since he left for this place, I suspect.  I am tired too.  He will feel better in the morning now that I have put him through the shower - it is no doubt fortunate that Aldrith did not see us go into the room together - but I shall let him sleep as long as possible, for he needs to rest.  In the morning I shall see what I can do to help here also, for what else can I do but try to repay a little of the Blessings I have been granted by aiding and comforting the people brought to this facility?  It is only right.  For now, though, I shall curl up in my Constantin's arms.  Let Aldrith see us, let him see what True Love looks like.