inbox

[cwene]

You have reached Her Most Royal Majesty Nima, by the Grace of the gods, of Eros and the Sea of Samorrah and Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Defender of the Faith.

It is common knowledge that the queen enjoys casual correspondence by mail and will answer most letters of substance that come across her desk.

Specify your means of contact in your header!

Comments

[bustered]

[Ahtem is Good People, clearly. Zack thanks the man; that first letter will be stored carefully where prying eyes will never find it. He tries to answer as if he'd only read the second one, to not get the bodyguard footman in trouble.]

Regina,

You and Sephiroth are my dearest friends in this place. When you are ready, I'll be here.

Remember, you're only human. We all make mistakes. Hell, some of us make more than others; Sephiroth has saved my skin plenty of times. (If you want to see him roll his eyes and laugh, ask him about the first time we met in Wutai.) But learning from your mistakes is the important part, right? I have faith in you Regina, I can't say it enough times. I really do. You're stronger than you think you are. I know Evelyn's disappointment is hard right now, and it stings. But sometimes a punishment comes because someone loves you that much. I know it sounds weird, but it's something someone once told me, and I really do think it's true.

I'd like to see you again when this is over, just to spend some time together doing something happy. Maybe we could go to the Temple District again, or have a picnic in the gardens here? Let me know if you'd like to do something like that sometime. [He won't call it a date but yeah, he's asking her on a date.]

Zack

[cwene]

[Ahtem knows what's up. Which is why he also slips Zack a second letter along with Regina's next reply.

This is a birthday card. Inside is a note from Evelyn wishing Regina the happiest 23rd birthday. Along with a "present" - instructions to don the mask and white dress Maggie has been provided, to go to a room in the basement, and to watch the show whilst saying nothing. Happy birthday, Regina. Love always, Evelyn.]

Zack,

I'm not sure it would be wise to go anywhere with me. I don't want you to get hurt because of the mistakes I make - or for anyone else to get hurt because of the mistakes I make. Perhaps it would be best for you to stay away for now. To stay safe. I don't want to cause you pain.

Regina

[bustered]

[Someone give Ahtem a raise. Seriously.]

Regina,

What causes me pain is seeing you alone and hurting. I consider you a friend, and for my friends, there is nothing I wouldn't do to see them smile. You're so pretty when you smile, it lights up your whole face. I know that sounds corny but I want to see you smile again Regina, when you feel you can.

There's no time limit on that offer. Whenever you feel ready.

Zack

[As soon as Ahtem leaves to deliver the letter, Zack heads to the dojo. He's furious with Evelyn, he knows he can't hide it, but he refuses to do anything that will get either Regina or Sephiroth into more trouble.]

[cwene]

[A single rose is waiting for him when he gets back, paper color in rich, ruby red and garnet. The edges of the flower are studded with chips of actual red gemstones.

Attached is a little tag, and on the tag is a complex design: Zack's name, written in old, layred Erosian runes. Regina's handwriting spells his name beneath the rune.]