Skip to main content.

Written By Hadrian

May 3, 2020, 3:50 p.m.(3/22/1013 AR)

Relationship Note on Strozza

He is so incredibly sweet. Mutual respect is an important trait.

My time among the Mazetti began under less than ideal circumstances, but over time that tumultuous past has given way to a prosperous future. It is through our combined strength and cooperation that we have achieved our successes.

He is an important cornerstone to the foundation. Entrusted to lead and be lead in equal parts. It helps that he knows just when someone needs a little support. It wins him favor.

Written By Hadrian

April 19, 2020, 12:34 p.m.(2/21/1013 AR)

From day to day there are a great many things we encounter, view, sense, review, and the rest.

Thus it becomes quite frustrating when there is something that feels important or even critical in the moment that you've experienced it. That you tell yourself not to forget to write about later. Whether that'll be in the pages in the whites or blacks.

Then by the time you reach a journal? You've forgotten what you'd intended to write about. I'm clearly not utilizing Luigi to my greatest capacity, but can he really take on more duties? Probably not. Maybe it's time to call up Mario from perusing old tomes and the like.

Written By Hadrian

March 22, 2020, 1:10 p.m.(12/21/1012 AR)

Alongside my need to settle on adding titles and honorifics that I've likely forgotten, there's also the need to come up for a new topic of discussion at the Salon. I'm sure I'll have something come to mind in the next day or two.

* The strength of allies. Can having core differences still result in lasting alliances? The answer is usually yes. Adults at the table can accomplish many things despite different core values. The secret is in simple respect.

* What resides among the stars? Is life out there? If things here are terrifying, how terrifying are the things out there? How fast would an Arvani try to procreate with it or them, if so? The answer is definitely yes. Twice.

* Are secret clubs really as neat as they're made out to be by the members who brag about being in them? They're not really that neat. You don't really get to tell anyone that you're in a secret clu -- oh, never mind. That wouldn't work for a subject.

* Spit or oil, which is better? That one wouldn't really work. Everyone knows that spit is better.

* If your neighbor's a slaver, does that make you a slaver too? Probably. Your dog, too. A discussion on Arvani foreign relations.

* Who were the allies of old that the Compact or its peoples once held? The renewal of alliances, peace agreements, and similar diplomatic efforts should take a forefront to the constant rattling of sword and shield. When applicable, of course.

* Who was the melting man on the back of the horse? Why did he call me Duke Malvici? An irrelevant note, but something that warrants further consideration now that it has popped into my head.

* What does Luigi even look like without his mustache? This one still makes me wonder. Sometimes I lose sleep at night thinking about this one. I imagine he looks like some sort of tough investigator with a lively rabbit friend or something.

I'll think of something in a day or two that'll stick. Then the time will come to make arrangements for the next gathering. Maybe it'll become a group activity that continues rolling even after the conclusion of the initial discussion; perhaps a series of experiments working to prove the competitive virtues of spit against oil? I do so enjoy that little surge of excitement when it comes to the planning phase for a discussion at the Empirical.

Written By Hadrian

March 6, 2020, 12:22 p.m.(11/17/1012 AR)

I could take some valuable lessons and insight from King Calithex Thex's many titles and honorifics.

I'll have to spend a little more time at my desk and brainstorm.

Written By Hadrian

Feb. 9, 2020, 12:23 a.m.(9.61020626653439/21.171550925925928/1012.7175171888779 AR)

I overhead some chatter recently while handling some matters at the Bank of Arx. The talk of Eurus, Jadairal, Cardia, and who even knows what else is buzzing throughout the city. There was some talk of all of those foreign bodies waiting to see which way that Arvum would fall and that phrase, that specific word, leapt out at me for reasons unknown.

Why is it that Arvum is poised to fall in one direction or another? While I understand that the general idea of the conversation is less about the demise of Arvum and more specifically our Compact (see what I did there?) but nothing more than a simple phrase to indicate choices laid before us. Still that word stood out to me. Fall. Why not what's the next step that Arvum will take? Why not which direction will Arvum go now? Arvum does stand upon a precipice and while falling is an option, it's not the only one ahead of us.

Arvum has many choices ahead of it still. Our very own Compact still has many choices and opportunities ahead of it. Arvum shouldn't fall, but Arvum should step toward a future that has greater understanding. Arvum does stand on a precipice where it can show itself to be a mature, sensible nation. Frequently the occupants of it are seen as little more than squabbling children and when presented with the possibility to show itself otherwise, it must responsibly answer that call not only for itself but the future of it and all those who will someday call it home.

A hand offered in friendship should rarely be slapped away. Pride is a good thing, but too much of it can corrupt. It is my hope that Arvum will not fall, but will step in a direction that will someday allow it to recognize friend from foe and foe from friend. It can stand strong, yet still have friends. It has in the past and some day it will again. So many turn their minds beyond the shores of Arvum and think everyone beyond it is an enemy. Our own history has taught us that there are those who are not born of Arvum that buck the traditions of their homelands and seek friendship without the expectation of chains.

I like to think that Arvum will not fall in one direction or another. I like to believe that instead it will march into its future with responsible pride, weathered and experienced, but upright and intact.

Written By Hadrian

Feb. 8, 2020, 11:57 p.m.(9.608909556878308/21.098935185185184/1012.7174091297398 AR)

Sitting here looking over a ledger, my mind has been wandering. Procrastination happens of course, it always has and it always will.

So often we call our collective the Compact. Rarely do we refer to it as our Compact. Not that it's some critical difference that most would ever consider worth consideration, yet here I am.

Idle thoughts best reserved for idle discussions at the Empirical, I suppose.

Written By Hadrian

Dec. 29, 2019, 4:30 p.m.(6/18/1012 AR)

Relationship Note on Cambria

All of us worked hard to achieve one of our greater goals. That achievement was not carried on my shoulders, or yours, but by all of us. The fact is that we did doggedly pursue it and we did invest a great deal of ourselves into that effort and while our contributions may have been many, it was the efforts of the whole that reached up to grasp what we desired and claim it. Every meeting, every rendevous, every exchange of favors, and every single deed performed was in pursuit of that dream. Even those we thought could be of benefit, but ultimately were not. We deserve to pat one another on the back for sure, but never should we forget the common of Ostria who have worked hard to push that dream into reality. Hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, from noble to commoner, we have worked for a greater Ostria. Nor should those who stepped forward as friends, allies, and compatriots be forgotten. Long will their generosity, ingenuity, and assistance be remembered. Their names are known and even if a whisper of aid is sought, it will be paid in return.

The promise made has been fulfilled and I truly am thankful that I never put into action plans I may have made upon being given that contract of old. While it was not the expected path or journey which I planned for, it was one that I did eventually adjust myself to for the betterment of not only others but myself. Overall it was a humbling experience and while the those first few years were strained at times? I have come to see them as just another trial to shape the person that I am today. Where some of your kin held resentment toward me for obvious reasons, we grew beyond them. We tempered the heat of our passion and refined it into something resolute.

Your leadership of Ostria has taken it to heights it has not known for a long time. For that I thank the gods. We must also remember those friends and allies who aided in the achievement of that goal. Proof to Ostria that sometimes arms must be opened in the pursuit of true progress. Gates shut and barred will keep even friends and the well-meaning out. Caution is a reasonable trait, but not at the sake of growth and experiencing what the world offers. Under your leadership Ostria has began to step forward more and more, making itself known and its honorable intentions felt.

You have proven the commitment you hold toward the words you speak and give to others. Through your actions, the word of my mother and myself were put to a true test and despite there being initial reluctance, that word was found to be encased in diamondplate. Together the people of Ostria will thrive and prosper under the guiding hand of House Mazetti. It is our duty, it is our honor, it is our right, it is our obligation to ensure that our actions are ever the sword and shield of our people.

Whether it is by the sword arm of Lord Theron to exercise the will of the Hydra. The charm, grace, and strength of Lady Alessia to show the world that Ostria can step forward from its walls. Or the keen eyes, ears, and quick wit of Lord Vitalis, the very Ghost that moves unwitnessed. The dedication and integrity of Lord Marzio and the Second to keep our beloved home safe. Whether it is through the talents of Lady Braith and her desire to always seek to find a way to improve, whether it is the self or beyond. Ostria is made safer under the guidance of Lady Antea, the Marshal of Ostria, who will always put duty and loyalty to family before simple wants. Even the seas near Ostria are made safer with the presence of Lord Strozza and those horses of the sea that follow his most capable direction. Should there arise an occasion that we need seek out wisdom, then we know that Lady Marvella will stand ready to provide. One mustn't forget that Lady Miranda will likewise contribute to a safer Ostria as the days, weeks, and months unfold through her great deal of experience and accomplishments she attained before ever becoming known as a Mazetti. These are but a few that will provide security and vision well into the future, without going into the vast number of names who hold the name of Mazetti or those who have been acknowledged as Scales. Whether performing duties within Arx, Ostria, or beyond the people of the Walled City are served well by those they serve in turn. No matter if the contributions have been great or small, they have all served to further forge bonds of loyalty and devotion for us all.

More fitting than ever now that the people have began to call you what we have always known? Today I write with a great sense of satisfaction.

Hail Hydra.

Written By Hadrian

Dec. 14, 2019, 8:03 a.m.(5/16/1012 AR)

Relationship Note on Saoirse

You don't prefer blonde horses? That's okay! Everyone has their own exclusive, personal preferences.

Written By Hadrian

Dec. 13, 2019, 2:10 p.m.(5/14/1012 AR)

I really prefer blondes.

Written By Hadrian

Nov. 17, 2019, 12:35 p.m.(3/18/1012 AR)

Relationship Note on Jaenelle

The Archduchess-Regent and I had a wonderful conversation recently. During that conversation it was discovered that she has a deep love and admiration for Oathlands line dancing. Or was it square dancing?

Ask her about it sometime. Make sure you have a snack on hand, possibly some water. You're in for a long conversation.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 31, 2019, 7:29 p.m.(2/13/1012 AR)

Hearing what I've heard, I see the point of the latest Salon discussion may have been misunderstood. It happens and I don't hold admonishment in my heart or mind for those who didn't grasp the underlying meaning, implication, or hopeful goal of the discussion. Allow me to spell it out just a little more clearly then, from a diplomatic standpoint. From the viewpoint of a mindset that wishes to see the first steps toward lasting change.

When the wide brush of condemnation is applied to entire peoples, then the likelihood of creating sympathetic ties within that group of people is greatly reduced. Lasting change rarely comes from without. It often comes from within. Just as the merchant who travels from door to door trying to sell their get-rich-quick scrolls tries to get their foot in the door? It is a frequent fact that diplomacy is often achieved by finding an individual of influence on the other side who can be worked with in a positive way to forge a mutually beneficial path ahead. A Voice, a favored courtier, a wizened aunt who is known for their no nonsense approach to chastising their liege-nephew, to name but a few. If the diplomat batters down the door, levels the finger of judgment and chastisement from the lowest to the highest? They will find many a door will slam shut in the future as a response to their brash approach.

Having the means to treat with those who are at least receptive to your views and who can be addressed on topics through courteous and respectful discourse? Is an imperative aspect of initiating the journey toward peaceful change. Sometimes peaceful change is the necessary point of pressure. Not applied through sword and shield, but through word and understanding.

If words are our means of overcoming an obstacle, then we must choose them carefully. Slandering an entire people for the actions of what may be the few? Will serve to create more enemies. There are those within Arvum who oppose thralldom. Imagine for a moment if, despite a personal belief that thralldom must go, that some outside group decided that because some view thralldom as an acceptable practice that you - a fellow citizen of the Compact - must be complicit and are therefore condoning thralldom by being a member of the Compact. No matter the facts. Not only will they not face the facts of your protest, but they actively refuse to accept anything beyond their own extreme point of view. Accuse someone of a falsehood enough and the chances of their embracing it out of spite increases.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 20, 2019, 2:12 p.m.(1/18/1012 AR)

It is truly a tragedy what has happened to House Volkov. They bent the knee and rejoined the Compact, through their fealty to House Fidante. They had relative peace and I can only imagine prosperity under that banner, but for reasons unknown and by current reports, has been reduced to nothing. Down to the last they have been moved to the Wheel, if the gods are kind. My heart is heavy not only for the people of Volkov Woods, but also for their liege. The bonds of fealty between liege and vassal are frequently strong, unshakeable, and inviolable. Destruction and death of this magnitude is a truly unsettling and insulting act against the Duchess of Roses and her household.

It does bolster my own spirits in these troubling days to know that should tragedy strike, the Duchess of Tor will not shrink from putting her foot down. That House Fidante will not lay down when aggression finds itself cast toward itself or its vassals. We of House Mazetti will watch as these matters unfold and should the call to us be made, we will stand prepared to answer.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 13, 2019, 12:25 p.m.(1/4/1012 AR)

For the first time I attended one of the Beards & Brews gatherings in the Ward of House Redrain. I went expecting little more than a bit of entertainment. Chuckles for sport, but an inevitable early departure.

What I found was a welcoming, vibrant group of people eager to share among themselves a playful bit of antics and respectful discourse about one of their favored paraphernalia. Baroness Acantha Clearlake and Lord Arik Halfshav were phenomenal hosts, stellar entertainers, and fostered a place of merriment and enthusiastic appreciation for facial ferrets.

In the end I didn't win the category I'd entered, but won a new category that was made for me. I'm not sure whether I should feel honored or pitied? Either way, it was amusing regardless of whether it was a verdict decided out of pity or respect. It was fun! I took home a prize that, I imagine Lord Arik hopes, will usher me along to developing an abundance of face foliage.

Congratulations to Lord Mirk Halfshav of course, for taking the win in the category of Best Beard. At least his is natural, so I feel he deserves the win over my own effort. Next time though, I will be better prepared.

I'm looking forward to the next opportunity to chase after that pleasure.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 13, 2019, 12:07 p.m.(1/4/1012 AR)

Relationship Note on Jaenelle

Whenever she calls me that eight letter word, I find myself becoming so very cheerful and giddy. It may become one of my new favorite vices.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 6, 2019, 2:23 p.m.(12/18/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Theron

I guess I can't threaten you with an excruciatingly dull wife any more.

You've been married to a fine wife, while affording you the opportunity to remain with your family and continue your duties as Sword and more. I am confident that together the pair of you will do wondrous things. Build something together that is truly worthy of worthy memory and recognition for future generations of the Hydra to marvel over.

Don't spoil the opportunity. Hard work was put into making it happen.

Written By Hadrian

Oct. 6, 2019, 2:16 p.m.(12/18/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Braith

She's proven to be delightful company, a stimulating conversationalist, in possession of a clever outlook, and altogether a wonderful individual. House Mazetti has worked alongside House Sanna to make the marriage contract fulfilled between our two families work, with the support of the Faith and the nod (and it's a really great nod, really) from Dominus Orazio himself.

It is my genuine hope that House Mazetti will serve Lady Braith Mazetti and her future as well as she will serve House Mazetti. We wish to know that we are a boon in her life and that as she supports us, we will support her. We count ourselves truly blessed to have her among us and look forward to the numerous successes she will achieve both within and beyond ourselves.

Written By Hadrian

Sept. 13, 2019, 12:51 p.m.(10/28/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Cambria

Forever? As in forever forever?

No, probably not. Nothing lasts forever and if it does it's probably unnatural. Or are we talking about your love for my idea of growing a mustache?

Because if we're talking about Mustadrian? That feeling can last forever-ever and is perfectly natural.

Written By Hadrian

Aug. 11, 2019, 4:15 p.m.(8/18/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Audric

I miss your efficiency.

Written By Hadrian

Aug. 11, 2019, 4:09 p.m.(8/18/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Arn

An incredibly complex man, despite the desire to present otherwise. It is a true pity that he's dead already.

We didn't really get along, but I respected his ability to remain consistent. He held some strange dislike for me surrounding events that I was barely old enough to truly remember. Whenever we would encounter one another at some gathering or in public, he was particularly fond of recounting all the soldiers of Ostria and Southport that he and his slew, despite my best efforts to be cordial toward him.

Of the many comments that were passed along to me, made by the good Duke of the Telmarch, a couple stand out. The first was immensely amusing, given the origins of his rule. Something about my being a lap dog. We can smell our own kind, I suppose. The other was the time that he described my unerringly darling aunt, Lady Eirene, as a hag. He was always one to provide a good laugh. Good ol' Arn.

While I will not miss him but plan to have a drink tonight with him in mind? I do hope that his death was swift and brutal, for the sake of his personal honor and glory.

I do find myself wondering if they'll bury his dog with him.

Written By Hadrian

Aug. 11, 2019, 3:34 p.m.(8/18/1011 AR)

Relationship Note on Cambria

Welcome back to Arx.

You should feel the muscles in my left arm.

Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.

Leave blank if this journal is not a relationship

Mark if this is a private, black journal entry