Dear M.P.,

My sibling situation is a little complicated, would, I think, be the term. I am one of nine, technically, but only even [u]remotely[/i] close in age to five of my siblings. Of those, three are sisters and two are brothers, and we were never particularly close growing up. Similarly, there are some members of my family who take blood purity much more seriously than I myself do - though we have never been the sort of family that disowns over it.

I'm glad that your sister is loyal to you; that's an important bond to have. One of my sisters, E., is a similar fighter, though her methods can be rather unorthodox.

I'll have to tell my friends I cannot possibly be stodgy by your evaluation; they can criticize me for being over-serious at times. I'll admit that I have some very deeply held principles, but - well, it is what it is, I suppose.

Have you read today's newspaper? I hope that my owl doesn't find you in Irvingly!

Sincerely,
A.