Letter Home 2nd Interlude

Mother, Father,
 
I write in the quiet before lights-out, with the scent of training oil still on my gloves. The days are full, and I am grateful for it. I have begun advanced forms in great sword, long sword and shield work. Captain Vexmere says I have “presence.” I am unsure what she means, but I think it was praise.
 
The etiquette instructor, Lady Valcourt, is thorough. I no longer confuse the salad fork with the desert one, though I still think it's unnecessary to have so many utensils for a single meal and why are they so tiny and fragile! We may have to make some recompense to her house. I have inadvertently destroyed some of her more fragile pieces. How do you navigate this finery, father? I know you would smile at that, Mother.
 
My siblings are adjusting well. Aldric got into a situation with one of his capers, nothing serious, but I spoke with him after. He listens more than he lets on. Though Lady D'Armande is certainly a factor of escalation on his behavior. I am unsure if this is a crush or chaos meeting chaos and reaching synergy. Caelith will occasionally advise the pair, and that tends to be when true mayhem arises. I wouldn't worry overmuch about this, though. Aldric's heart is good and most are amused by his antics. I caught the headmaster trying to hide his mirth over the last incident. Elise shines as she is wont to do. The students and staff love her, she has been a comfort to me as well. Our house will have a formidable diplomat by the time she leaves this place. Lirien is advancing well in her studies and helps me and our siblings no small amount with our own. I do think she was embarrassed by the matchmaking at the Drakemont gathering. Mother, you may wish to address that. Or not. Clearly, the heart is a battlefield upon which I flounder. I make time for them when I can. They are watched over.
 
I often think of the meaning of our house name, of what it will mean when it passes to me. I am trying to be worthy. Slowly, I think I am becoming so. I miss you both, Aldon's Rest feels like a dream at times. There have been some developments here. Friends of mine are concerned for the princess' safety. I am doing what I can. I am always at Lady Drakemont's service. She is a credit to her house. This is no burden to bear. I will do you and our house proud on that front.
With love and honor,
Orren