Dearest Noressa,

I write to tell you that I am still alive. The kindness of the very stranger before you spared me an exile's fate. Treat them well.

Regarding our daughter... forgive me, I could not find her. All evidence suggests she succumbed to life outside the Shield. Words cannot express my grief.

I cannot tell you where I am, nor can I return to you. This is a difficult, trying time for our people but I must stress to you: there IS still hope. I cannot risk exposing my saviors, but help is coming. Just hold on.

Love,

Absolon