My apologies for the delay in response, I am certain you can ascertain as to why, but considering my profession is in the healing arts, it's been a busy week. A long, traumatizing, existential, week.

I relish in the distraction of your letter, even if it is only temporary. Families are complicated. I can relate there as well. At least you feel as though you belong with them, I cannot say the same. My father of course, adores as much as he can, but my stepmother and half-siblings are another story. It is perhaps why I do not think passing this curse along is wise, but also why I spend so much time at work; at least there I am useful.

I think I too would like the opportunity to have an outlet for the more in depth discussions. I enjoy the speed with which letters allow one to think before putting quill to paper and phrase exactly what it is they would like to say, rather than the immediate response required in conversation.

As it seems we are in agreement on the matter, I should think I would like to go first. All I have known since graduating is my work, it keeps me going. The attacks on the Thames have me questioning everything about it. I was an utter disaster, I was completely overwhelmed by the chaos and the sheer volume of patients and I lost my decorum. I do not work in an emergent ward typically, and if there are emergencies it is one at a time. I have known resources, my colleagues, my wits about me. How am I supposed to call myself a healer when I cannot do it in such situations like that? It leaves me questioning my direction and my usefulness in the future.

I hope I have not started out too intensely, but it feels better getting it off my chest.