A few letters are left behind ...
Dear Geddoe,
It's been great knowing you.
No, this is not a final farewell. Even if I end up not returning here, I'm sure our paths will cross again someday. I'm not traveling to the end of the world, after all.
But as I was saying, you've been a great captain and an even greater friend and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. So please, for me, continue being happy and treasure everything you have. You, more than anyone, know that nothing lasts forever but that's the reason why we need to protect what we value while we can.
Take care always,
Queen
***
Dear Aila,
I know I agreed to travel with you to Karaya but now that Jacques is back, I thought it would be better to give you two some time alone. You need it. I'm happy for you that he has returned and happy for you both that you two still love each other despite the time that has passed. You will always have my blessings, support and love.
There is no way in hell that I'm missing the wedding, so count on me being there in a few months, even if I end up not returning here for good.
Give my regards to Jacques.
Your big sis always,
Queen
...
Dear Nash,
If you're quick enough, and I know you are, you can catch me still before I leave with the sunrise.
I want to leave without the entire castle knowing but I can't leave without saying good-bye to you. And note, that's good-bye, not farewell. I need to do a bit of sorting out and traveling, and perhaps return to the places of my youth. For all intents and purposes, I am coming back here because I have made this my home.
I don't know how to fully express my gratitude to you when you have done so much to help me heal and recover from my grief and pain. I still have ways to go but you have been a huge comfort. You have consoled and touched me very deeply, Nash and I ... I can't help but love you for it.
There. It's been said. I've wanted to tell you but it's just been too damn hard. I was afraid that you would vanish out of my life like Cray but ironically enough, it is me who is leaving, isn't it? But I'm not vanishing. I am always here, if not physically. I will be with you as long as you remember me.
Gods, I am going to miss you. But I will smile whenever I think of you, until I return to see you again.
Your Queen always,
Julia