First Report from Alwen

Teacher,   Where did you find this junior of mine? She's amazing and a little terrifying. The Empress tested her personally after commanding Kadia to stay out of it. This human you found - she's fearless. She fought the Empress with live steel and succeeded in drawing blood.   I've taken her to the cabin I use when I'm afraid of a research project getting out of hand. I felt it would be good to keep her out of the court's sight until she's recovered enough to put those people in their place herself.   According to Kadia, the Empress needs her help for a Great Working - but as stands, she's afraid that Hella's human body couldn't withstand the stress of the working. I haven't gotten much more than that from either of them - Hella said she's in over her head with the magic and Kadia (who is also remarkable!) has been immersed in whatever this is.   Truthfully, I'm grateful to get away for a bit but I promise - as soon as we're done with this, I'll properly return to my not-temporary job. Consider me sufficiently chastised.   I've met all the rest too. I'm jealous of the things they got to do with you and the adventures you've been on but more than that, the stories they tell about you… I'm just glad that you're really back. If you hadn't recovered, I don't know that I could have forgiven myself for helping to seal your mind.   Tira says she'll play messenger as long as the birds are reliable. I'm sorry about the Shadow Gate in your keep beyond the barrier. We didn't realize how much it needed you as a source of anchoring energy - my last attempt to force things through the more tenuous connection damaged both ends of the gate. If you return there, I'll send notes about how to repair that side.   I miss you. I know I'm needed here right now but… if you need me, just ask and I'll come.   Your student in magic and life   Alwen