Written By Lydia
Sept. 19, 2017, 11:25 p.m.(4/1/1007 AR)
Fortunato Grayhope's art exhibition, "Freedom", has given me pause to think on the nature of debt and repayment. The Thrax use thrallship as a means to secure a debt... renege financially and you'll work off your debt in servitude. If we postulate, as Fortunato appears to have done, that this is not a desirable consequence what alternatives do we have? Surely to renege on a debt is an affront to honor, should we settle such matters by duel? Or like a breach of contract, if it were judicially adjudicated, what binding decision would have any impact on one so impoverished to be in such a situation? As they say, one cannot get blood from a stone. If it were to be a crime, would some sort of debtors prison be any different than thrallship? And how do any of these benefit the injured party? No such case has come before me yet as Duchess. How am I to decide?
Written By Lydia
Sept. 6, 2017, 12:40 a.m.(2/26/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Sameera
Seeking to improve myself, I found an able instructor in Sameera. Hopefully my investigations will go more smoothly, applying what she has taught me.
Written By Lydia
Sept. 3, 2017, 10:52 p.m.(2/22/1007 AR)
Oh my, I've neglected the journals so this week. Both in the reading and the writing. I beg forgiveness. The recent dramatic events occupy my time. I am distracted, writing my thoughts and recording my deeds not been foremost in mind.
I attended the charity event at Golden Hart to benefit House Thrax. They have so much to rebuild. Not everyone subscribes to northern wisdom. I, myself, remember it most as something like a fairy tale when I was little. But, with all my heart, I believe in the three fold law. The things we send out in this world come back to us threefold. I have not been a dutiful student of history. At least until recently when more responsibility landed on my shoulders. I know Thrax is honorable, and is a loyal servant of the compact. It is time they see that service come back to them. If my small contribution can be part of that, in threefold, than I am happy to be a part of the effort.
The favors are beautiful. I remember a time father may have brought such things home.. I would stare at them for hours as a little girl. They were so beautiful. For the first time though, I stare at these and see them for what they are. Reminders of a tragedy, a loss. And more important, a coming together.
I attended the charity event at Golden Hart to benefit House Thrax. They have so much to rebuild. Not everyone subscribes to northern wisdom. I, myself, remember it most as something like a fairy tale when I was little. But, with all my heart, I believe in the three fold law. The things we send out in this world come back to us threefold. I have not been a dutiful student of history. At least until recently when more responsibility landed on my shoulders. I know Thrax is honorable, and is a loyal servant of the compact. It is time they see that service come back to them. If my small contribution can be part of that, in threefold, than I am happy to be a part of the effort.
The favors are beautiful. I remember a time father may have brought such things home.. I would stare at them for hours as a little girl. They were so beautiful. For the first time though, I stare at these and see them for what they are. Reminders of a tragedy, a loss. And more important, a coming together.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 31, 2017, 1:16 a.m.(2/14/1007 AR)
Arianna brought Reese and Killian over to enjoy the baths. It's occurred to me a little re-arranging of the space may be in order. Everyone seems to love the heated, mineral waters. Especially after all these events and tournaments lately.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 15, 2017, 10:02 a.m.(1/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Valery
Valery tells me she may open a shop of her own. Remedies mostly, it seems. I think she has such promise as a perfumer, I hope she doesn't neglect that side of the business. I must pay a visit on opening day, if I can.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 15, 2017, 9:51 a.m.(1/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Edward
I saw Edward today. I remember flirting with him from time to time at the Golden Hart. Those days seem like a lifetime ago.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 14, 2017, midnight(1/8/1007 AR)
I've decided to consult with a priest of Jayus. Alexis is helping me with some contacts in Valardin, in addition to Marion who I know already through Fergus. I have vowed to make time with Prince Darren this week, if time he has to spare, or my penance shall be severe. And lastly, I need to visit Beladonna. So many people to meet, so little time.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 13, 2017, 11:50 p.m.(1/8/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Alexis
I watched Alexis fight again, in the Grand Melee. She defended her princess against an all out onslaught. Nobody could prevail in that dog pile. I hardly think it was fair or sporting, but she explained what must have been her attacker's strategy. And they carried that smaller part of the larger battle. One cannot argue with success, especially in battle.
Written By Lydia
Aug. 2, 2017, 10:47 a.m.(12/13/1006 AR)
I had a delightful time at Alaric's and Symonesse's wedding and reception, and by that I mean I spoke to almost no-one. I did get to see the King briefly at one point, and I think we might share a sense of humor. Rulers must have humor, I think, or they risk becoming tyrants. I don't think I'll worry about that in the least, in this case.
Written By Lydia
July 28, 2017, 12:33 p.m.(12/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aksel
Of course you didn't break your ass, Aksel. You were riding a horse, remember?
Written By Lydia
July 26, 2017, 7:50 p.m.(11/27/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Marian
Fergus and Marian came by, and we had a long talk. It's good to know I have some drinking buddies, because boy am I going to need them sooner or later.
Written By Lydia
July 26, 2017, 7:50 p.m.(11/27/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
Fergus and Marian came by, and we had a long talk. It's good to know I have some drinking buddies, because boy am I going to need them sooner or later.
Written By Lydia
July 25, 2017, 2:58 p.m.(11/25/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Valery
I got to see Valery again today. She seems to have settled in well in her duties with Redrain. I've asked her to make me something special for the upcoming Tournament of Roses, in exchange for some clippings and seeds from our gardens. It was nice to see her, and I'm looking forward to what she comes up with.
Written By Lydia
June 27, 2017, 12:07 a.m.(9/24/1006 AR)
I guess I'll need to pull that bunny-rabbit mask back out again. This should be fun.
Written By Lydia
June 24, 2017, 3:14 a.m.(9/18/1006 AR)
You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar.
My issue with this? It comes from catching flies. I think your main problem with this is, why would you catch flies? The reason could possibly be put down to catching flies to get rid of them. However, the underlying meaning of this idiom is that, you would experience more success if you were to be nice, rather than be un-nice.
But flies are pests. There is nothing, nothing desirable about attracting flies with honey. Even switching it around makes no sense. Attracting honeys from being fly. Really. Why?
My issue with this? It comes from catching flies. I think your main problem with this is, why would you catch flies? The reason could possibly be put down to catching flies to get rid of them. However, the underlying meaning of this idiom is that, you would experience more success if you were to be nice, rather than be un-nice.
But flies are pests. There is nothing, nothing desirable about attracting flies with honey. Even switching it around makes no sense. Attracting honeys from being fly. Really. Why?
Written By Lydia
June 21, 2017, 6:36 p.m.(9/11/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Katarina
I preened the requisite amount for that lovely compliment. THANK YOU, Princess. Yes, we certainly must. Although, goodness, I'll need to be brought up to current day on the Compact gossp!
Written By Lydia
June 21, 2017, 5:44 p.m.(9/11/1006 AR)
WAIT.
Wait a moment, Scholar -- and, goodness, I do apologize for that very grotesque noise of displeasure I made. At least I didn't kick your shin. At least there's that. Oh, I will need to be making a charitable donation to the Vellichorian Shrine for that. Perhaps the scholars. Yes, I plan on it.
WELL. There are all these hushed little mentions of a party at the Pravus Manor? And there was no invitation extended toward me? For shame. Have I slipped so far down the social ranks that I'm not desired company at a social gathering? Honestly, I MUST correct that as soon as I can. My ego is as delicate as my constitution. Like tissue paper, alas, torn at the slightest provocation.
Terrible showing, Lydia, you need to get OUT there.
I will, oh yes. I will.
Wait a moment, Scholar -- and, goodness, I do apologize for that very grotesque noise of displeasure I made. At least I didn't kick your shin. At least there's that. Oh, I will need to be making a charitable donation to the Vellichorian Shrine for that. Perhaps the scholars. Yes, I plan on it.
WELL. There are all these hushed little mentions of a party at the Pravus Manor? And there was no invitation extended toward me? For shame. Have I slipped so far down the social ranks that I'm not desired company at a social gathering? Honestly, I MUST correct that as soon as I can. My ego is as delicate as my constitution. Like tissue paper, alas, torn at the slightest provocation.
Terrible showing, Lydia, you need to get OUT there.
I will, oh yes. I will.
Written By Lydia
June 20, 2017, 9:36 p.m.(9/9/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Niamh
My thoughts've been stewing, and I've been thinking very hard about what to write about you that doesn't come across as disingenuous in the playful way that I wish to remember you.
Because , you were very much a person that was genuine. Always. So, I'll be genuine in my shared memory to honor the Lady Nimah Greenmarch that I knew that would sit on the benches with me when I was still a Lady - and together we'd watch the other duelists in the Champions Guild practice. Sometimes, we'd drink a little. We always watched the pretty ones with, you know, that kind of appreciation that made me grin from ear-to-ear.
That's it. That's how I'll remember you.
I hope it's enough.
Because , you were very much a person that was genuine. Always. So, I'll be genuine in my shared memory to honor the Lady Nimah Greenmarch that I knew that would sit on the benches with me when I was still a Lady - and together we'd watch the other duelists in the Champions Guild practice. Sometimes, we'd drink a little. We always watched the pretty ones with, you know, that kind of appreciation that made me grin from ear-to-ear.
That's it. That's how I'll remember you.
I hope it's enough.
Written By Lydia
June 18, 2017, 10:12 p.m.(9/5/1006 AR)
I suppose I should be all: I learned my lesson today. Should and could. But, did and done. The lesson I learned? Show your work and provide reasons for everything - I repeat - everything I do. Or, name my heir and become a hermit and live a life of obscurity.
However, that? Doesn't sound very fun.
However, that? Doesn't sound very fun.
Written By Lydia
June 17, 2017, 10:15 p.m.(9/3/1006 AR)
To-Do List:
* Seek suitors. Dragons or Griffins. Perhaps a Bear. Will need to consider. Will also consider new and unexpected surprises. (I mean, who doesn't love a nice surprise?)
* Seek proteges. Perhaps to add to the household staff.
* Write more letters. There are old connections that I need to renew and new connections to kindle.
* More gossip.
* New slippers.
* New gown to match new slippers. (I saw this most amazing pale, wintry rose blue silk that I need-need-need.)
* Consider charitable projects for the groups and organizations that I am involved with.
* Seek suitors. Dragons or Griffins. Perhaps a Bear. Will need to consider. Will also consider new and unexpected surprises. (I mean, who doesn't love a nice surprise?)
* Seek proteges. Perhaps to add to the household staff.
* Write more letters. There are old connections that I need to renew and new connections to kindle.
* More gossip.
* New slippers.
* New gown to match new slippers. (I saw this most amazing pale, wintry rose blue silk that I need-need-need.)
* Consider charitable projects for the groups and organizations that I am involved with.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.