Lara

Dearest Cassia,

Leaving home taught me that some people collect wills like coins. I remember my first mistress showing off her betas to guests, pointing at us like wine vintages. "This one came cheap. This one fights still. This one finally broke." I was the one who finally broke. You will meet collectors at the Academy. Smile. Nod. Then walk away. Your will is not a vintage. It is yours.

Yours always,
Lara