Written By Cambria
Sept. 11, 2017, 3:51 p.m.(3/12/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Hadrian
I am proud to say that I have a few cousins that are twins. In fact, there are even triplets...
In House Mazetti.
In House Mazetti.
Written By Cambria
Sept. 11, 2017, 3:36 p.m.(3/12/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Hadrian
You asked for this:
I know how to make it happen.
Don't worry, though, it wouldn't include you.
I know how to make it happen.
Don't worry, though, it wouldn't include you.
Written By Cambria
Sept. 11, 2017, 3:30 p.m.(3/12/1007 AR)
I suppose a dragon would suffice, in that it is extremely mythical, surrounded by legend, and I have yet to see it.
One. I have yet to see one, I mean.
One. I have yet to see one, I mean.
Written By Cambria
Sept. 10, 2017, 2:06 p.m.(3/10/1007 AR)
I have been keeping myself busy. Busy in matters at home, busy in research, and busy in building a budding social life. Sometimes, life does not allow for a week's worth of endless parties. Or rather, it could, but I choose not to indulge in such for the sake of those people who serve me, whether or not that role is considered large or small in the eyes off others. As I have recently been told: people are likely to do things for you, if you are willing to do things for them. A very simple lesson in being a liege or leader of any sort, I should imagine.
In other news, I had the pleasure of meeting with Sir Daemon Dracone at the Queensrest, recently. I look forward to attending the little bash that the Keatons are throwing for him. I will, however, write more on the good knight later.
PS. After seeing that exchange of letters from Prince Talen to his lovely wife, Princess Eleyna, I can only say this: I'm sorry. From what I understand, it only gets worse.
In other news, I had the pleasure of meeting with Sir Daemon Dracone at the Queensrest, recently. I look forward to attending the little bash that the Keatons are throwing for him. I will, however, write more on the good knight later.
PS. After seeing that exchange of letters from Prince Talen to his lovely wife, Princess Eleyna, I can only say this: I'm sorry. From what I understand, it only gets worse.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 31, 2017, 8:16 p.m.(2/15/1007 AR)
I try not to engage in turning my White Journal entries into social commentary on another's submission to the Archives. However, I suppose there comes a time in everyone's life where you feel compelled to do so. So I must say this: I stand with the Highlord Edain Valardin. Hugs are wonderful. Everyone should be hugged at least once or twice in their life time. And there is no shame in being the little spoon.
Just ask my husband.
Just ask my husband.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 27, 2017, 3:55 p.m.(2/7/1007 AR)
As has rapidly become my norm, the past two weeks have been filled with many things with which to occupy my time. Of most distant note, now, was the fealty dinner hosted by the Velenosa - Prince Talen and Princess Eleyna, specifically. I had a most delightful time, the food and drink was, of course, superb. Though my uncle, Valerio, had to soldier through a small case of poisoning, I was glad he endured that for the sake of both myself and our hosts. It would have been a dreadful shame if the little game Blacktongue had designed hadn't been well-received by the guests.
It would be remiss of me not to mention, however, that Prince Talen and Marshal Valerio had a bit of a debate about portraits, which lead to...well, I will leave that to the two men to conclude before I speak of it further.
After that evening, the whirlwind of my life continued. I have endeavored to spend as much time as possible at the manor. It is now fully staffed, the larder fully stocked...again. (So too, the wine cellar). I wrote about Donkey Knight's in a previous entry, so I will not do so again here. There was another dinner my family attended, hosted by Marquessa Quenia Igniseri. I was able to meet both Duchess Dafne Zaffria as well as Duchess Grazia Rubino, both lovely women. Also in attendance were Lady Lucita, and Countess Arcelia. I suppose Hadrian and Valerio were somewhat outnumbered, but neither appeared too out of sorts. That's the beauty of Lycene men, for you.
There were many and more things that I did not get to attend, or to do, though I would have liked to. As so many have said, there just isn't enough time in the world.
It would be remiss of me not to mention, however, that Prince Talen and Marshal Valerio had a bit of a debate about portraits, which lead to...well, I will leave that to the two men to conclude before I speak of it further.
After that evening, the whirlwind of my life continued. I have endeavored to spend as much time as possible at the manor. It is now fully staffed, the larder fully stocked...again. (So too, the wine cellar). I wrote about Donkey Knight's in a previous entry, so I will not do so again here. There was another dinner my family attended, hosted by Marquessa Quenia Igniseri. I was able to meet both Duchess Dafne Zaffria as well as Duchess Grazia Rubino, both lovely women. Also in attendance were Lady Lucita, and Countess Arcelia. I suppose Hadrian and Valerio were somewhat outnumbered, but neither appeared too out of sorts. That's the beauty of Lycene men, for you.
There were many and more things that I did not get to attend, or to do, though I would have liked to. As so many have said, there just isn't enough time in the world.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 26, 2017, 1:34 a.m.(2/4/1007 AR)
I have many things to write about in my journal this week, but for this particular event, I must give it its own separate entry. My husband, Hadrian, hosted one of his legendary parties. His words. Elegantly titled 'Donkey Knights,' myself and several others managed to drink enough to convince ourselves that mounting a donkey and lassoing a 'dragon' was a great idea.
It was, actually, the best idea. I had more fun than I can remember having in many months or more. Not only because I won, though that most certainly was a delightful bonus, but because everyone around us was so filled with a genuine happiness, that it was hard not to laugh, and to smile.
With us were a few faces I had never seen before, namely, Nisaa Whisper and Inquisitor Mercedes Valardin. Perhaps my comportment was not as stellar as I so often prefer, I may nevertheless note down here and now that I was and am extremely pleased that both women decided to join us at the manor. Also in attendance were Lord Ian Kennex, Lord Wash Kennex (though I was unaware of this until the night's end...), my uncle, Marshal Valerio, Countess Arcelia Navegant, and, yes, my friends, even Father Orazio.
After the dragon was laid low, many of them remained at the manor to continue to drink and chat. Again, what pleases me most is that everyone seemed so joyous. Maybe it is the drink that has left me feeling so girlishly sentimental, but there you have it.
PS: It was the good Lord Ian (AKA, the princess of the sea) and his favor that gave me the grace and the glory that made it possible to win.
PPS: Lord Wash is quite probably the most ingenious man I have ever met, above and beyond even Hadrian.
It was, actually, the best idea. I had more fun than I can remember having in many months or more. Not only because I won, though that most certainly was a delightful bonus, but because everyone around us was so filled with a genuine happiness, that it was hard not to laugh, and to smile.
With us were a few faces I had never seen before, namely, Nisaa Whisper and Inquisitor Mercedes Valardin. Perhaps my comportment was not as stellar as I so often prefer, I may nevertheless note down here and now that I was and am extremely pleased that both women decided to join us at the manor. Also in attendance were Lord Ian Kennex, Lord Wash Kennex (though I was unaware of this until the night's end...), my uncle, Marshal Valerio, Countess Arcelia Navegant, and, yes, my friends, even Father Orazio.
After the dragon was laid low, many of them remained at the manor to continue to drink and chat. Again, what pleases me most is that everyone seemed so joyous. Maybe it is the drink that has left me feeling so girlishly sentimental, but there you have it.
PS: It was the good Lord Ian (AKA, the princess of the sea) and his favor that gave me the grace and the glory that made it possible to win.
PPS: Lord Wash is quite probably the most ingenious man I have ever met, above and beyond even Hadrian.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 19, 2017, 9:46 p.m.(1/19/1007 AR)
So it goes with life that there are stretches of time where it seems as though nothing is really happening, and then, all at once, many things occur. As is likely known by a good deal of people within Arx by now, I have married the former Duke of Southport, Hadrian Malvici. He stands beside me now as Marquis and Voice of House Mazetti. The wedding itself was a private affair, though it is our intention to host a celebration at a later date. I have written thanks to all those who offered me such warm congratulations, but it would be remiss of me not to make special mention of Father Orazio, who oversaw our ceremony, and Master Merek Black, who so kindly paid us a visit at the Manor to congratulate Hadrian and I in person, and offer us a gift. The insightful conversation that followed was an added bonus.
Yet there was also the terrible disaster in the harbor, affecting so many families of the Mourning Isles. And, because we are all connected in some way or another, the rest of the Compact as well. The monetary loss is, I am sure, devastating to economists. The loss of life, however, is incalculable. Of the many journals I have read thus far on the matter, it does my heart good to see those that are more positive and forward thinking than those that are negative or back-biting. Nor can I forget the strange event that occurred in the Shrine of Mangata. I know that the Highlord of Thrax was there for a certainty, but I believe there were others in attendance as well. The important thing is that, from all I have heard, no one died in that peculiar attack, and can only assume the Prince of the Mourning Isles is in recovery.
Here's to hoping that people both within and without the capital continue to come together in the face of adversity.
Yet there was also the terrible disaster in the harbor, affecting so many families of the Mourning Isles. And, because we are all connected in some way or another, the rest of the Compact as well. The monetary loss is, I am sure, devastating to economists. The loss of life, however, is incalculable. Of the many journals I have read thus far on the matter, it does my heart good to see those that are more positive and forward thinking than those that are negative or back-biting. Nor can I forget the strange event that occurred in the Shrine of Mangata. I know that the Highlord of Thrax was there for a certainty, but I believe there were others in attendance as well. The important thing is that, from all I have heard, no one died in that peculiar attack, and can only assume the Prince of the Mourning Isles is in recovery.
Here's to hoping that people both within and without the capital continue to come together in the face of adversity.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 13, 2017, 3:45 p.m.(1/7/1007 AR)
I've come across some Journals where an individual is listing off some animals and their attributes in case future generations don't have these creatures as we do today. I think that is a very fine endeavor, though I am not writing this now to add to that list. Rather, I thought I would make note of something we have in Ostria: there is an old house in the Outer Round that's built of bones. Not entirely, mind. But bones are incorporated within and without. There are large bones, and a good few of them, as well as small bones, and of those there are a good deal more and then some. Some are quite recognizable while others are a complete mystery, even to Scholars. There are a few local Scholars, though, that suspect it was an ancient creature that has since gone extinct. They have drawn many pictures of how they think it may have once looked, and there are entire treatises on what its purpose was and just what it ate and even what the world was like while it was alive - but it is all conjecture.
Other Scholars dismiss the idea that the bones are real entirely. Because the home owner is vehemently against anyone removing even the smallest bone from his abode, no one can actually perform any tests upon them. Thus there have sprung up an opposition group to the aforementioned Scholars that claim the bones are, in fact, an artist's manufacture. This artist has been lost to time, his or her Journals are unknown. Maybe the only wrote Black Reflections, and their family declined the publishing of such? Maybe it was a colossal joke that, even now, is being played upon the Ostrian populace. Whatever the case may be, the Scholars of this group flatly deny that the bones ever belonged to a real creature.
I like to believe that it was a living thing, once, though. After all, we now know that we're not quite as informed as we otherwise believed ourselves to be. Why would it be so impossible to imagine that the world once held creatures of all shapes and sizes that lived and died long before we arrived on scene?
And for that matter...when did we arrive, anyway?
Other Scholars dismiss the idea that the bones are real entirely. Because the home owner is vehemently against anyone removing even the smallest bone from his abode, no one can actually perform any tests upon them. Thus there have sprung up an opposition group to the aforementioned Scholars that claim the bones are, in fact, an artist's manufacture. This artist has been lost to time, his or her Journals are unknown. Maybe the only wrote Black Reflections, and their family declined the publishing of such? Maybe it was a colossal joke that, even now, is being played upon the Ostrian populace. Whatever the case may be, the Scholars of this group flatly deny that the bones ever belonged to a real creature.
I like to believe that it was a living thing, once, though. After all, we now know that we're not quite as informed as we otherwise believed ourselves to be. Why would it be so impossible to imagine that the world once held creatures of all shapes and sizes that lived and died long before we arrived on scene?
And for that matter...when did we arrive, anyway?
Written By Cambria
Aug. 13, 2017, 3:23 p.m.(1/7/1007 AR)
It has been a busy few weeks, interspersed with a few moments of genuine fun. I have sent a great deal of letters - letters to artisans, letters of business, and letters to friends as well as soon-to-be friends. With all of them, things are in motion but for me, myself, I am currently within the waiting stage. That can be frustrating for anyone, but I believe I am good at exercising patience. And patience, I do believe, is considered by many to be a virtue.
Speaking of virtues, and things that have happened to me leading up to the penning of this, I have been warned and I have been reprimanded. In both cases, I understand why each man said to me what they did. Each were concerned for me, body and soul. At least, I am relatively certain one was showing a shred of worry for my body, while I am positive the other felt a genuine care for my immortal spirit. And, in both cases, I am more than sure each of them was trying to dissuade me from the path that I am on. It is no doubt a source of chagrin for the both of them that, even as I acknowledged their words, I would not be swayed from my course. What's more, I have the strong feeling that my own words of assurance do not hold as much water with either of them as I might wish. That is nothing I can help, and again, must look to patience as my crutch. Perhaps with time I will be seen differently in their eyes. And for the better, of course.
I did, however, note that I had fun. My life is not all the drudgery of daily business and disappointing expectations or ruining the hopes and dreams of others. (I write this in jest...sort of. The dashing of such was- maybe I never should have wrote any of that. Too late now, though. I don't believe in censorship, though I won't proceed with this folly). I spent an evening at the Golden Hart, where I met several pleasant individuals with whom I hope to seek further acquaintance in the future. Princess Valencia Velenosa was a charming and attentive hostess, while I found the rest of my company to be great conversation. Lord Lorien Keaton can expect that dinner invitation before too long, while I hope to find the opportunity to speak with Marquessa Quenia Igniseri at greater length in the near future.
Speaking of virtues, and things that have happened to me leading up to the penning of this, I have been warned and I have been reprimanded. In both cases, I understand why each man said to me what they did. Each were concerned for me, body and soul. At least, I am relatively certain one was showing a shred of worry for my body, while I am positive the other felt a genuine care for my immortal spirit. And, in both cases, I am more than sure each of them was trying to dissuade me from the path that I am on. It is no doubt a source of chagrin for the both of them that, even as I acknowledged their words, I would not be swayed from my course. What's more, I have the strong feeling that my own words of assurance do not hold as much water with either of them as I might wish. That is nothing I can help, and again, must look to patience as my crutch. Perhaps with time I will be seen differently in their eyes. And for the better, of course.
I did, however, note that I had fun. My life is not all the drudgery of daily business and disappointing expectations or ruining the hopes and dreams of others. (I write this in jest...sort of. The dashing of such was- maybe I never should have wrote any of that. Too late now, though. I don't believe in censorship, though I won't proceed with this folly). I spent an evening at the Golden Hart, where I met several pleasant individuals with whom I hope to seek further acquaintance in the future. Princess Valencia Velenosa was a charming and attentive hostess, while I found the rest of my company to be great conversation. Lord Lorien Keaton can expect that dinner invitation before too long, while I hope to find the opportunity to speak with Marquessa Quenia Igniseri at greater length in the near future.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 6, 2017, 3:41 p.m.(12/21/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerio
Marshal Valerio Mazetti is my uncle. In hindsight, I should have traveled with him from Ostria to Arx, but such was my decision at the time and I do not exactly regret it. He is in the capital with me, now. Given that he did not suffer from an apoplexy or other ill humor when I told him of my plans his first night here, I do believe he will get on swimmingly.
*As a personal note for any one reading this in the now: Should Marshal Valerio make any requests for bales of cotton, just- well, don't be surprised if you see me in the following days look as if I have become a puff ball.
*As a personal note for any one reading this in the now: Should Marshal Valerio make any requests for bales of cotton, just- well, don't be surprised if you see me in the following days look as if I have become a puff ball.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 6, 2017, 3:12 p.m.(12/21/1006 AR)
It took some months, but the manor house is now livable again. I restored where was possible, rather than recreate, so as to best maintain the sense of age and history it possesses. Some of the bedrooms will still need to be cleared out in the coming days and weeks, however, but by and large things are moving along nicely. My uncle arrived a few days past, which has done much to alleviate my homesickness. His tireless dedication is truly to be admired, as on his first night here, as we shared dinner, he had work to go over with me. Not merely suggestions, either, but numbers and figures and plans of action. Other plans, too, are nearing fruition, but those I shall write about upon their completion.
Written By Cambria
July 29, 2017, 1:57 p.m.(12/5/1006 AR)
My assistant, who is ever so helpful, has scoured the city in order to procure me (of his own volition, mind), several different herbal teas of which he claims are medicinal and therefore necessary for me in this, my first true winter. As he explained to me their purposes and ingredients, I could not but wonder at the skill and knowledge of the apothecaries who so blended these herbs together. For example, this one is a mixture of elderberry, echinacea, calendula, rose hips, orange peel, ginger root, and cinnamon. It will supposedly ward off any ill humors. An understandable concern, of course. In fact, the accumulation of warm clothes, 'proper' winter footwear and thick gloves is completely appreciated. My estimation of what would be enough to keep me from being chilled prior to departing the Lyceum has been proven laughably naive. So again, my dear assistant, thank you.
There have been some other, less noteworthy measures taken to protect my health as well. It had been shared with me that, sometimes, a peculiar wind cuts up from the south that is particularly cold. I don't pretend to understand that, but it came from an authority on the matter. Which isn't to say one should not question. That is, after all, how we learn.
There have been some other, less noteworthy measures taken to protect my health as well. It had been shared with me that, sometimes, a peculiar wind cuts up from the south that is particularly cold. I don't pretend to understand that, but it came from an authority on the matter. Which isn't to say one should not question. That is, after all, how we learn.
Written By Cambria
July 23, 2017, 2:26 p.m.(11/21/1006 AR)
There aren't many people these days that still read Scholar Abbadon for his teachings, let alone for pleasure, though he was once incredibly popular. In his time, and for a good while thereafter it, his complete works could be found in practically all home libraries. He had a talent, in my opinion, for being able to say what was both startling as well as obvious. Although his prose style is undoubtedly considered (if one bothers to read anything of his), as too formal -we prefer expletives and the colloquial now- I keep stumbling across little gems that are wonderfully pertinent nearly three hundred years after he penned them. I ponder whether or not much of what we write will stand the same test of time. Then again...it is the fancy of every age to presume that it will have the last word.
Written By Cambria
July 15, 2017, 9:35 p.m.(11/5/1006 AR)
Another two weeks have passed me by. There is little to report: reconstruction on the old family estate here within the capital is moving along, and should be liveable before too much longer. I shall be more than pleased to get out of this inn. The accommodations aren't lacking, nor is its cuisine unsatisfactory, yet I am restless there all the same.
I met with one duke and one duchess. Aside from their respective holdings being wildly apart, the two could not be more different. I found the duchess to be a most serene woman. I imagine she will be as a rock to both her family and her fealty, something no doubt necessary for these tumultuous times. The duke, on the other hand...
Was a perfect delight.
If only the others with whom I scheduled meetings hadn't had to cancel. One after the other. I might have had more to write.
I met with one duke and one duchess. Aside from their respective holdings being wildly apart, the two could not be more different. I found the duchess to be a most serene woman. I imagine she will be as a rock to both her family and her fealty, something no doubt necessary for these tumultuous times. The duke, on the other hand...
Was a perfect delight.
If only the others with whom I scheduled meetings hadn't had to cancel. One after the other. I might have had more to write.
Written By Cambria
July 9, 2017, 6:24 p.m.(10/21/1006 AR)
I arrived in Arx on the third of October, and though it feels as if I have only been here a few days, it is now the twenty-first. I thought I would have accomplished more than I actually have, which leaves me rather chagrined. The old estate is uninhabitable. Completely. The rubble has hardly even begun to be cleared away, never mind the chore of selecting and hiring a team of appropriate builders, renovators, and decorators. It is not for a lack of choice. Instead, I find myself presented with a pool of so many that going through and interviewing them all to get a grasp on their talent, skill, and price point, has become its own minor affair. I am certain to make my decision before too long, and for those who are, or who will be, in the same situation as me, a very kindly gentleman warned me to stay away from Regency Consulting, as it is run by swindlers and dishonest sorts of every stripe.
In more exciting news, I attended the Moonlight Tea Social hosted by the Lady Symonesse Marin'luna, our future Queen. It was, in contrast to the open Assembly headed by Duke Gabriel Bisland, decidedly pleasant. Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that, with but exception to a few, they were attended by completely different people. One thing I must note, however, is there was a thread of commonality: both Duke Bisland and Lady Marin'luna were petitioned endlessly with questions. And both, in my opinion, showed a good deal more patience than I suspect many others in their positions would have been able to endure.
That said, I cannot escape the feeling of melancholy. The effects of homesickness, no doubt, for I have never before left Ostria and, for much of my life, never imagined that I ever would. I miss familiar sights and familiar faces. Though I have encountered several polite and welcoming individuals since my arrival in the capital, I confess I have not made a single friend. Not even an acquaintance in whom I might hope for such. It is very lonely here.
In more exciting news, I attended the Moonlight Tea Social hosted by the Lady Symonesse Marin'luna, our future Queen. It was, in contrast to the open Assembly headed by Duke Gabriel Bisland, decidedly pleasant. Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that, with but exception to a few, they were attended by completely different people. One thing I must note, however, is there was a thread of commonality: both Duke Bisland and Lady Marin'luna were petitioned endlessly with questions. And both, in my opinion, showed a good deal more patience than I suspect many others in their positions would have been able to endure.
That said, I cannot escape the feeling of melancholy. The effects of homesickness, no doubt, for I have never before left Ostria and, for much of my life, never imagined that I ever would. I miss familiar sights and familiar faces. Though I have encountered several polite and welcoming individuals since my arrival in the capital, I confess I have not made a single friend. Not even an acquaintance in whom I might hope for such. It is very lonely here.
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