Dear Little S—

We stand at the gates tonight. Let the marquis’ plan play out. It will be terrible, but you must trust me. Don’t interfere! We have a plan. Send word you’re okay. Germaine can be trusted.

—I

P.S. We need a few more coins. Can’t risk being followed to you-know-where. 

Dear I—

I’m okay…for now. Will let marquis’ plan play out tonight. Please send word soon after. Don’t know how long I can keep up the charade.

—M

Dear Little S—

All went according to plan. Prisoners are waiting. Please make sure they are treated well over the next few weeks.

—I

P.S. But don’t let them see you! They think you’re a witch.

P.S.S. Send a few more coins. Plotting is expensive! 

Dear I—

Why do they think I’m a witch?!? Already have a castle full of people who think I’m someone else! Afraid I’ll be found out any day! Where are you? Can I join you?

—M

P.S. Last night was horrible. You better have a plan! And it better be good.

P.S.S. Will take care of prisoners…somehow. 

Dear Little S—

Sorry for not writing sooner. We were almost found out! Devereux snooping around. Germaine made a distraction, and we slipped out just in time. Too dangerous for you to come now. Please stay put. It’s all part of the plan. Prisoners think you’re Richelieu’s bride. Sorry—but had to think quick. Coming for you at full moon.

—I       

P.S. Royal Council should arrive tomorrow. C. won’t come (obviously), but her cousin, Baron Fidèle de Bonville, will represent Fontaineflamme. He can be trusted.

P.S.S. Need a few more coins. C. growing weary of rebel life.

Dear I—

Are you crazy?!? The marquis’ bride?!? Can’t even stand to be his “friend” (long story)! What kind of hair-brained plan is this?!?

Royal Council arrived today. Fidèle has received letters from C. He will take care of prisoners and release at appointed time.

Marquis busy at court. Wants me to stay hidden until full moon. Got something up his sleeve.

M—

P.S. Running out of coins! Stop spending so much!

P.S.S. And stop calling me Little S.!

Dear Little S—

Full moon tomorrow! Be ready to act! Marquis will lead king to Great Hall. You must be at their side. Fidèle will free prisoners. Don’t be scared. Just follow my lead. I mean it this time! If all goes to plan, we’ll be home before moonset. 

—I

P.S. Just a couple more coins…we need a good meal before battle.

Dear I—

Will be at marquis’ side. Part of his plan. Zahlamaer is coming! Has cracked some kind of cipher. Marquis wants to steal it and send Zahlamaer to the Dark. What’s the Dark? What’s a cipher? Are you really coming tomorrow? Please I., you better have a good plan! I’m so afraid.

—M

P.S. This is the last coin I have, so don’t ask for any more!

New chapters of The Secret Corridor will be published every Friday to CorridorCounty.com. Listen at Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Buzzsprout.

Chapter photo created with the assistance of DALL·E 2.