Elowel's first letter home

Dear Mother,
Oathwatch is chilly, musty, and oh so very gray! Please send all my brightest clothes and decorations for my room! I am sure my roommates won't mind!
I have been watching and listening, as you told me to. Everyone here has a story and at least a few secrets. Some of my classmates are quiet and studious, some are troublemakers, and a few might be just plain trouble.
I have spent some time with Seraphina, but she is sooo serious! It's not easy to make her laugh, but I am up to the challenge! She has a couple of guards here with her that seem to be loyal, but I am watching.
Fanya, Ryska and I continue to train as much as possible between classes, and yes, I practice my mandolin every night. Promise!
Professor Hollowind doesn't know what to do with me, I think. His teachings are all about silence and sneaking around, but you always taught us that the most obvious spy is the one who is obviously trying to be sneaky! I will just have to show him that my way works too!
Give everyone my love,
Elowel