(2026-03-10) Less Exciting In Comparison, Surely

Details

Author:	Athena
Summary:	Finley writes to Elle for no reason in particular. Everything is definitely fine and normal, ha ha why do you ask? 620~ words.
Rating:	T for Teen

Written in Finley’s careful, slightly cramped, guarded writing.

03/10/30

Dear Elle,

I trust that this letter finds you well. I’ve heard some interesting things about Pandaria at the moment. It seems a complicated situation, but with some luck perhaps at least your assignments are going well as can be. And of what we spoke of before, regarding the shift in perception you have experienced, it’s my hope that you have found a form of peace with it, even in war.

Things here at home have been less exciting in comparison, I’m sure. There was some bad business a few days ago, a thing to do with the House. It’s been keeping me busier the past few weeks, and it will probably keep doing so for a time yet. Makes me glad you didn’t buy an orchid after all, because I’m not sure how well I’d be keeping it watered these days.

That’s not to say that I haven’t put aside some time to keep an eye on your cousin, because I do and I have, and it’s no hardship. I’m sure she’s writing you, and telling you how she is properly. She’s safe here at home, and working hard as always. I’ve had the pleasure of hearing her playing at times out in the city. She brightens the place. Isla was thrilled by her birthday present of your collaboration, and even more so for it having been of your combined making. She thinks of you most fondly.

I’ve been planning for a trip out to Pandaria in the future fast approaching. Her Grace wishes for some artwork of Pandaria, and to have an emissary for a few business related check ins, and I’m pleased to be of service of course. A man does like to feel useful in times like these, small as it might be in comparison to a soldier’s contribution. If there was something you’ve seen that you’ve a fondness for, I’d be glad to know of it. Perhaps I’ll be able to do a small work of it that wouldn’t be too bothersome for you to carry about if you’d like. Or if you’d prefer, a larger one to send to your home to await your return.

The rest of the House here is doing well. Ery and the Twins are growing like weeds. She still has the Clacker, but the sound can’t reach me at the townhouse, so I’ve nothing ill to speak of it at this time. Her Grace is expecting again, which you might have heard already from Fallon if you’ve seen him out there as of late. Otto’s started a Children’s Garden on the property, and he’s been occupied by it. Isla’s been working with Miss Kensington-Whit on learning how to use the Light, and how to be even more stubborn than she was before. Miss Kensington-Whit is of good health as last I saw of her, and of considerable strong will that makes me doubt she’s ever not in good health, because bad health wouldn’t dare.

I’m in good health now myself as well. I’ve little more to report, except that you’re missed.

Sincerely,
Finley Boutille

PS – Do you ever write to Miss Ilanya Ravendusk of House Amerith? I think she’d care to hear from you, if you haven’t yet. She had a bit of a time at a party recently, with some unwanted attention that I warned off best as I could. She’s well, so not to worry about it, and if you have any worry, I’m sure I’ll be seeing her again in the future to check in. But I think she’d prefer to hear from you herself than see me again, as I’m not of any interest, I’m sure.