[color= #0E6251] The Brantley family have a long history of weaponized incompetence. They feed off of those around them then portray themselves as innocents. A family of leeches that desires nothing more than to primp and preen amongst the upper echelons, so they trample heedlessly upon all who cross their path toward their ascent. The very crimson they spill in pursuit of their desires seems to leave them unstained, such is their disregard. Heartless people, the lot of them. It is a pity, despite their striving for acceptance, their lineage has not sired a speck of elegance or grace in their offspring.
Bainbridge, too, is seemingly bereft of the refinement so fervently pursued by his clan. He would sooner kiss the foot of a titled man than hold any true opinion of his own. Gaudishly flashing about money he did not earn, a testament to his poor taste and lack of decorum. It would come as no surprise if he too were as spindly as the spider that wove his family’s incompetence and cunning deceit. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] Although I am not in want of a bride, the undeniable truth remains that the bonds of matrimony shall beckon eventually. In that instance, any lady I endeavor to court must carry a particular disposition. She must be more than patient, adept at maintaining an estate on her own, and willing to bear long expanses of time without my company. A romantic alliance is not my aim, but rather a companion whose essence harmonizes with my way of life. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] Why do any of us consider a friend, a friend? What an odd question. Ilyas and I grew in the most uncertain of times together. We shared each others pains. We helped each other laugh. We spent many seasons together as a formidable duo when we were away from hearth and home. What more might I have considered him other than a brother and a close friend? [/color]
[color= #0E6251] Once, yes, I had the honor of finding a love that set my soul alight. In my youth, I found myself engaged to be wed to her by the blessings of those above. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I have many wounds from that night. Some markings laid bare for all to see, while others delve deeper still. My arms, it seems, bore the brunt of those searing wounds, though the memories of that fateful day and the anguish it bore remain a haze, elusive and distant. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] That is quite personal, though, I suppose in simplest terms: I fear others. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] The daughter of the Brantley name. She is by far the least insidious of the members, yet she too pumps the blood of her villainous forefathers in her veins. It is a shame as I hear she is quite lovely and kind. My hope for her is that she may marry and distance herself from her kin. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I have not had the pleasure, but I hear she is quite a competitive intellectual. I would find it quite strange to discourse so fervently with a woman, however, I do hope to experience her ferocious desire for knowledge firsthand. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I have made my thoughts on Miss Belle Rose quite clear, I believe. I do not wish to waste more breath describing her shortcomings. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I have been lucky in my endeavors across much of Europe and Asia. I was even most fortunate to accompany my father on a trip to Northern Africa once as a boy. I believe the location is still held by the Ottoman to this day. The only venture I have yet to undertake is the colonies. I do hope to visit one day. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I resided in France my entire boyhood. In the year of 1803, I would have been just shy of 14 years. I was often in academy if I were not home, yet I did not see much of any wartime influence. However, my father was approached by the French military some years prior. For what, I could not say, but their meetings did not seem of a friendly visitation. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I do not enjoy the prospect of siring children of my own, however, the need for heirs remains for all men of import. Save for the obligations thrust upon me by my family’s trade, I would willingly embrace a life as an eternal bachelor. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] I have ventured to both places. The land of India yields bountiful quantities of wares in both spice and textile, which have found favor in my business pursuits. During my latest visit, I happened upon a multitude of enchanting sights, guided by a most delightful companion. The experience proved enlightening and unveiled many new perspectives. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] Since Miss Abigail loves to read, I should trust she has no trouble reviewing my previous responses. In short, Korea has been my most treasured of travels. [/color]
[color= #0E6251] You must have me mistaken, dear inquisitor, for as talented I am a rider, I should rather be hunted myself than join the Brantley’s in recreation. The fox is a treasured animal in Korean culture, I should never implore to spill the blood of such a creature. Although, I suspect the Brantley’s shed not for blood spill. [/color]