Hi Danny! I'm sure you never expected a letter from me, and I know we don't really know each other terribly well (nor as well as I'd like), but I just had to write to you! This being a serious missive, I shan't beat around the bush but shall get right to the point. (By the way, I think it would be extremely wise to keep this letter completely to yourself [though I suppose you can show it to Laurie if you are so inclined]).

It's about Mik. Mik is a very close and very complex person, and I do not by any means claim to speak his mind, but I've been developing this nagging suspicion. If I can see the symptoms when I'm not even with all of you, then I'm inclined to think that I am not imagining things. It is only because Mik is my very dearest friend that I am taking this so very seriously.

In Mik's first letter to me—shortly before you ventured into the Underdark to "deal" with it—I noticed something ... unusual. You. Mik has apparently developed an obsession with your safety, well-being, and so on. He expressed great concern about you, and mentioned that he found it worrisome to have someone he cared about adventuring at his side. I was shocked. Mik never comes out and says such things! I'd be shocked if Mik admitted to honest friendship with just about any of us! I'm not doubting that he does feel strongly about all of his friends, mind you, just that he tries to hide it.

I've been thinking about this for some time now. And I've been thinking about what I know of Mik. His only romantic involvement, as far as I know, was with Vascez—a very masculine woman. And that never got anywhere (Vascez was less than receptive). I have begun to think that perhaps the gentleman doth protest too much, if you get my meaning. I suspect Mik does not know his own mind in this matter.

I also suspect his father and brother may have something to do with his general reluctance to even consider the idea. Although I have only briefly met them, Lord Eirias was truly intimidating (and I am not easily intimidated), and I heard many strange and suggestive jokes and stories at Peregrine's birthday party. Mik is terrified of both of them, and loathes Peregrine (as far as I can discern). I don't know what is really going on in his family, but I have this feeling that you might, or might be able to find out. I think that might give you a better idea of what is going on in Mik's head and heart: a place to start, perhaps?

I would very much like to see things work out between you and Mik—romantically as well as platonically. I think the potential is definitely there. Besides, I think you would be a fine catch for him (if you don't mind my saying so), and I'm sure you would take care of him as he deserves (even when he doesn't like it). (And, I'm a meddlesome female trying to play matchmaker from afar—what did you expect?)

I realize that I am very likely not telling you anything you didn't already know, but I just had to write you anyway, even if only to back you up. Please count me in as a conspirator-from-afar should you ever desire any assistance in this matter! I should probably warn you that our group has a bit of a reputation as matchmakers—ask Callous or Avitar! I'm also quite certain that Lairunya would be willing to lend any aid you might wish, even if it's just a sympathetic ear. I imagine that the entire situation is probably somewhat tense and frustrating (for you and Mik).

In the meantime, keep up the good work (I hear nothing but praise for you from Laurie). Good luck, and best wishes (and good hunting)!

Fea