18th October, Brussels.

My Dearest Elizabeth,

My apologies for my absence of communication, in truth I have been struggling to remain myself here. A most foreign realm, yet one that somehow seems strangely familiar.

While setting about my quest I happened upon a most remarkable gentleman, purporting to be one of the famed “Bow Street Runners”. Going by the name of Corvin Wick, he suggested that he and I share a common purpose. As to how he could ascertain such from my current almost non-existent local interactions, and blind wanderings I can only guess. Perhaps skills honed in the pursuit of his profession.

I must confess I am not perfectly certain that he is trustworthy. Despite his background I sense that there is something not entirely above board with the gentleman, as any conversation with the man inevitably ends up with you doing most of the talking while his intent observation seems to penetrate the soul. A most unsettling feeling.

However, he suggested that to progress further with our shared quest, a meeting with another gentleman with whom he is acquainted would be of great benefit to us both. This someone he assured me, “knew the lay of the land significantly better than ourselves” and he proposed to set up this meeting and inform me upon the time and location once they had come to “an understanding”.

I hope to bring to you soon more fruitful news. Until then,

Forever yours,

X