Written By Hadrian
July 27, 2019, 9:49 a.m.(7/16/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Dianna
Your sister has attained your #1 position. That, of course, means that you've been lodged into the #2 position. Not all hope is lost, though! There is still plenty of opportunity to regain your favored place among the pair of you.
The big kid table awaits.
The big kid table awaits.
Written By Hadrian
July 27, 2019, 8:54 a.m.(7/16/1011 AR)
You mean another one? I guess! I'm sure it will be truly delightful.
The composer will no doubt sweep me off my feet with their song. I will clutch at my chest, feeling my heart thundering so heavily behind my ribs. As I stand before them, awash in their words and feel the imagery they seek to wrap me in.
Just make absolutely certain that it includes a prominent mention of Peggy with this one, please? She is truly underrepresented in my life story.
The composer will no doubt sweep me off my feet with their song. I will clutch at my chest, feeling my heart thundering so heavily behind my ribs. As I stand before them, awash in their words and feel the imagery they seek to wrap me in.
Just make absolutely certain that it includes a prominent mention of Peggy with this one, please? She is truly underrepresented in my life story.
Written By Hadrian
June 26, 2019, 11:17 p.m.(5/10/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Elisha
"And she asks: 'Is this your card?'"
Written By Hadrian
June 22, 2019, 9:19 a.m.(5/1/1011 AR)
How delightful to write a journal entry and that be your reminder that your date of birth has rolled around. Though I'm not sure it's a moment to celebrate, when you take a moment to stare at the date and wonder why it looks so familiar. Then the memory floods in and oh, yeah, it's my birthday.
I will have to put some consideration into the day. I should treat myself.
Or maybe I'll go out and make some fun for others, spread some silver and drinks around, and make the day about someone else for funsies. The possibilities are endless! Maybe a donation to the Faith would suit, given that it was a Mercy who pulled me into the world once upon a time. A nice pile of coins on the floor should do the trick.
I will have to put some consideration into the day. I should treat myself.
Or maybe I'll go out and make some fun for others, spread some silver and drinks around, and make the day about someone else for funsies. The possibilities are endless! Maybe a donation to the Faith would suit, given that it was a Mercy who pulled me into the world once upon a time. A nice pile of coins on the floor should do the trick.
Written By Hadrian
May 3, 2019, 8:30 a.m.(1/13/1011 AR)
Within recent time I had an opportunity to meet both Lady Rhiannon and Lady Olivia, both of House Ashford. They made delightful conversation and seemed to function quite well in discussing business-but-not-really-discussing-business. They seemed perfectly at ease while discussing a topic that many would find both exciting and stress-inducing. Whether or not the underlying topic is ultimately pursued or not? It presented a wonderful opportunity to meet a new pair of people who were exceptionally dedicated to their respective families and I look forward to the potential of working with them in the future, even if the original reason behind our discussion does not pan out.
House Fidante recently hosted a festival of sorts in Tor Plaza and it was fantomenal. Yes, that's a combination of fantastic and phenomenal. Innovator. I drank, I ate, I flirted, I danced, and by the end of it all I had such a superb time that I have been eagerly awaiting the announcement of House Fidante's next extravaganza. I really hope at the next one there will be more fire-eaters and that spinning wheel of risk and danger? More of that, please! Wagers could be taken, everyone gets a little sport, and it would truly enhance the evening. In closing on the topic of the party: despite it being a party celebrating autumn, held in the beginning of winter? House Fidante overcame through ingenuity and their connections. So very many braziers, torches, and carefully maintained flames were made present to practically make one forget that as Lord Dante Fidante and I dance our sultry dance that flakes of snow were falling.
Upon delivery by the ever resourceful Master Luigi, I took note of a journal entry made by Cambria. I should probably feel mildly concerned that one of her recent journal entries did not conclude with: "And zero murders". Clearly I need to put greater emphasis on the completion of those ships before an unfortunate accident happens.
There is much more I could write about, but perhaps I will do that soon. For now I must be heading back to my office with Vomas, because it's entirely too cold to walk all the way back to the manor now.
House Fidante recently hosted a festival of sorts in Tor Plaza and it was fantomenal. Yes, that's a combination of fantastic and phenomenal. Innovator. I drank, I ate, I flirted, I danced, and by the end of it all I had such a superb time that I have been eagerly awaiting the announcement of House Fidante's next extravaganza. I really hope at the next one there will be more fire-eaters and that spinning wheel of risk and danger? More of that, please! Wagers could be taken, everyone gets a little sport, and it would truly enhance the evening. In closing on the topic of the party: despite it being a party celebrating autumn, held in the beginning of winter? House Fidante overcame through ingenuity and their connections. So very many braziers, torches, and carefully maintained flames were made present to practically make one forget that as Lord Dante Fidante and I dance our sultry dance that flakes of snow were falling.
Upon delivery by the ever resourceful Master Luigi, I took note of a journal entry made by Cambria. I should probably feel mildly concerned that one of her recent journal entries did not conclude with: "And zero murders". Clearly I need to put greater emphasis on the completion of those ships before an unfortunate accident happens.
There is much more I could write about, but perhaps I will do that soon. For now I must be heading back to my office with Vomas, because it's entirely too cold to walk all the way back to the manor now.
Written By Hadrian
April 29, 2019, 9:37 a.m.(1/5/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Brigida
If only I were forty years older. Please note, Scholar, that I am now biting my knuckles and rolling my eyes. Thank you.
It's not often that I find myself stopped in my tracks, but the one I've heard called the Golden Rose of Tor can stop me any day. Is she the Silver Rose of Tor these days? Sure she had to set aside her ties to her family in order to pursue her future as one of the Godsworn, but I suppose one could say that you can take the Rose out of Tor, but you can't take the Tor out of the Rose?
Either way, super great old person. Hope I'm as smooth as her when I'm old and silver. I really hope I can amount to being exactly 82% as impressive as her when I've reached walking stick age.
Most definitely would.
It's not often that I find myself stopped in my tracks, but the one I've heard called the Golden Rose of Tor can stop me any day. Is she the Silver Rose of Tor these days? Sure she had to set aside her ties to her family in order to pursue her future as one of the Godsworn, but I suppose one could say that you can take the Rose out of Tor, but you can't take the Tor out of the Rose?
Either way, super great old person. Hope I'm as smooth as her when I'm old and silver. I really hope I can amount to being exactly 82% as impressive as her when I've reached walking stick age.
Most definitely would.
Written By Hadrian
April 29, 2019, 9:06 a.m.(1/5/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Dante
The grace of a fighter should never be underestimated off the battlefield. Within the pleasurable throes of the dance, grace lingers still as grace. It is malleable and the application of the fighter's grace can be applied to many a peaceful (or semi-peaceful) experience. One could likely even debate that a warrior creates the framework for an exceptional trained dancer. Their propensity for strength and grace, rather than one or the other? I can certainly vouch for the strength and grace of Lord Dante Fidante following our shared dance at the celebration of Tor's ruling house that was held in Tor Plaza.
The Sword of Tor is said to be something of a poet and I hope daily that I'll receive some sappy poem laden with my many virtues. Perhaps it's too short a list? Sad. No matter, should I receive such a poem from the most stunning Dante Fidante, I will surely bat my lashes and offer pleased gasps at regular - if not perfectly timed - intervals and appropriate points.
The humor of our dance aside and the follow-up journal entry aside, I did have a wonderful time rising to the occasion of a challenge and sharing a dance with Lord Dante. He proved his humor and his willingness to see his family's guests given ample entertainment for the benefit of the overall enjoyment of the party.
The snow and wind may have made it cold, but Lord Dante helped to make Tor Plaza a sultry place for a brief time.
The Sword of Tor is said to be something of a poet and I hope daily that I'll receive some sappy poem laden with my many virtues. Perhaps it's too short a list? Sad. No matter, should I receive such a poem from the most stunning Dante Fidante, I will surely bat my lashes and offer pleased gasps at regular - if not perfectly timed - intervals and appropriate points.
The humor of our dance aside and the follow-up journal entry aside, I did have a wonderful time rising to the occasion of a challenge and sharing a dance with Lord Dante. He proved his humor and his willingness to see his family's guests given ample entertainment for the benefit of the overall enjoyment of the party.
The snow and wind may have made it cold, but Lord Dante helped to make Tor Plaza a sultry place for a brief time.
Written By Hadrian
April 11, 2019, 11:20 a.m.(11/26/1010 AR)
I suppose I should spend some time considering the notion of a patron. It seems to be all the rage these days.
Written By Hadrian
April 11, 2019, 8:53 a.m.(11/25/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Vitalis
He is resourceful and dedicated. Rarely am I given a more thoroughly organized presentation. He reminds me of his father in that regard, which is a good thing. I wonder if he'll wage a war on floors someday, too.
Regardless, I know that I can rely on him to achieve results. Sometimes it's hard to find people who take pride in their work and demand the best of themselves.
Regardless, I know that I can rely on him to achieve results. Sometimes it's hard to find people who take pride in their work and demand the best of themselves.
Written By Hadrian
April 11, 2019, 8:32 a.m.(11/25/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Cambria
Next time I'll just ask Luigi's help. He doesn't get so sour over being asked to pick up my things.
Let it be noted, Scholar. I didn't know she detested shopping so much when she offered her help. Had I known, I'd have politely declined her offer and reached out to our friend to do it. He seems mercenary enough that offering to pay him silver to handle a bit of order pick-up wouldn't have so much as caused him to blink.
Then again, he could have misunderstood my intent behind hiring him. Then there'd be some sort of incident. Then I'd have to make amends with a valued contact among the merchants. Then they'd want compensation for their 'pain and suffering'. Then there would be some convoluted story that would unravel from the whole ordeal that ultimately ended up with some tragedy or another.
Then just when you think the story is over, some upstart offspring of theirs turns up in fifteen to twenty five years, vowing their revenge. Catching the subject of their desired vengeance unawares, because they thought the whole matter was resolved fifteen to twenty five years ago.
Somewhere in that whole fiasco there would be an unlikely friend, probably some sort of animal bond, then everyone would cry when the animal in question died in some heartbreaking way, and finally there'd no doubt be a friend in a mask who turns out to be an enemy in disguise. Which only leads me to believe the friend-in-disguise would be Luigi. So now I've got to keep an eye on him and that mustache. I've never trusted that thing.
Let it be noted, Scholar. I didn't know she detested shopping so much when she offered her help. Had I known, I'd have politely declined her offer and reached out to our friend to do it. He seems mercenary enough that offering to pay him silver to handle a bit of order pick-up wouldn't have so much as caused him to blink.
Then again, he could have misunderstood my intent behind hiring him. Then there'd be some sort of incident. Then I'd have to make amends with a valued contact among the merchants. Then they'd want compensation for their 'pain and suffering'. Then there would be some convoluted story that would unravel from the whole ordeal that ultimately ended up with some tragedy or another.
Then just when you think the story is over, some upstart offspring of theirs turns up in fifteen to twenty five years, vowing their revenge. Catching the subject of their desired vengeance unawares, because they thought the whole matter was resolved fifteen to twenty five years ago.
Somewhere in that whole fiasco there would be an unlikely friend, probably some sort of animal bond, then everyone would cry when the animal in question died in some heartbreaking way, and finally there'd no doubt be a friend in a mask who turns out to be an enemy in disguise. Which only leads me to believe the friend-in-disguise would be Luigi. So now I've got to keep an eye on him and that mustache. I've never trusted that thing.
Written By Hadrian
March 26, 2019, 1:08 p.m.(10/22/1010 AR)
Vomas and I spent a chilly afternoon playing a game of strategy in the manor garden. We spoke of unrelated topics while we played in order to add an additional layer to our game, as we tend to do.
I am proud to admit that Vomas finally won a match between the pair of us and I am thrilled at his accomplishment. He rose and wandered away after his victory. Chest puffy with confidence and his shoulders thrown back with bravado. He's adorable, really.
I am proud to admit that Vomas finally won a match between the pair of us and I am thrilled at his accomplishment. He rose and wandered away after his victory. Chest puffy with confidence and his shoulders thrown back with bravado. He's adorable, really.
Written By Hadrian
Feb. 10, 2019, 1:02 p.m.(7/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerio
To Lord Valerio Mazetti, C/O the Queen of Endings,
Ledgers. Ledgers as far as the eye can see.
The amount of work that has gone into this effort would have made your eye go crossed. Which, I guess technically, wouldn't be crossed. Slanted, maybe?
We only hope that it will be a proper honoring of you, even if a little tongue in cheek. It has been a project built on a foundation of love and respect. A final form of closure for your people in recognition of you, the Marshal of Ostria, who served them so diligently. Construction has been well underway and we wait with bated breath for completion. Holding your breath or choking yourself a bit enhances the enjoyment.
The sight of your son carrying Mandate from time to time has been something. There are moments that it feels as though a phantom walks among us.
Ledgers. Ledgers as far as the eye can see.
The amount of work that has gone into this effort would have made your eye go crossed. Which, I guess technically, wouldn't be crossed. Slanted, maybe?
We only hope that it will be a proper honoring of you, even if a little tongue in cheek. It has been a project built on a foundation of love and respect. A final form of closure for your people in recognition of you, the Marshal of Ostria, who served them so diligently. Construction has been well underway and we wait with bated breath for completion. Holding your breath or choking yourself a bit enhances the enjoyment.
The sight of your son carrying Mandate from time to time has been something. There are moments that it feels as though a phantom walks among us.
Written By Hadrian
Feb. 10, 2019, 12:06 p.m.(7/18/1010 AR)
Hypocrisy is still hypocrisy, even in the guise of righteousness.
Zealotry is still extremism, even in the mask of advancement.
The contradictions of late have been delicious. I'm sure the reflections of those things won't pose a problem down the road.
Zealotry is still extremism, even in the mask of advancement.
The contradictions of late have been delicious. I'm sure the reflections of those things won't pose a problem down the road.
Written By Hadrian
Feb. 8, 2019, 4:14 p.m.(7/14/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Audric
The news of Baron Audric de Lire's death comes as quite the surprise. Not because I never once thought he'd have ever crossed someone to the point that they'd want to kill him. One doesn't accomplish all that the good Captain-General has in life and not expect to make some particularly bitter enemies along the way.
In truth it was his prowess that gave me such a sense of security in his future and safety. It wasn't at all that he was unkillable - there are very few who could claim such a thing, because as we know the Queen of Endings always takes her due. No, it was the fact that he was so in possession of an abundance of cleverness. He was the sort that legends speak of; the plucky warrior on the battlefield, alone and surrounded, who somehow talks their way out of that situation through guile and tact.
On request he has provided me services that have witnessed both justice and revenge sated. He was enjoyable company and amusingly I'm not certain he ever quite understood the connection of bloodlines and how cousins fall within them. Or he did and he was just singularly focused on reaching his goal that he didn't care. Either way, it was amusing.
He was most assuredly rough around the edges, there is no way to deny that fact with a straight face. He had his moments like everyone does. He was human (or was he?) he was flawed, but he made the best of the situation and the hand he was dealt. I'm sad to hear of the passing of someone I considered a friend and hope that he will enjoy the succor of the Queen of Endings until his eventual return from the Wheel.
In truth it was his prowess that gave me such a sense of security in his future and safety. It wasn't at all that he was unkillable - there are very few who could claim such a thing, because as we know the Queen of Endings always takes her due. No, it was the fact that he was so in possession of an abundance of cleverness. He was the sort that legends speak of; the plucky warrior on the battlefield, alone and surrounded, who somehow talks their way out of that situation through guile and tact.
On request he has provided me services that have witnessed both justice and revenge sated. He was enjoyable company and amusingly I'm not certain he ever quite understood the connection of bloodlines and how cousins fall within them. Or he did and he was just singularly focused on reaching his goal that he didn't care. Either way, it was amusing.
He was most assuredly rough around the edges, there is no way to deny that fact with a straight face. He had his moments like everyone does. He was human (or was he?) he was flawed, but he made the best of the situation and the hand he was dealt. I'm sad to hear of the passing of someone I considered a friend and hope that he will enjoy the succor of the Queen of Endings until his eventual return from the Wheel.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 31, 2019, 9:49 a.m.(6/26/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
Knives on a gauntlet?
This really does sound like a job that you should tackle with Baron Audric de Lire. Fixing knives to a glove really sounds like something the good Captain-General probably did a decade ago. Or yesterday.
I think I smell the next big collaboration of 1010 AR!
This really does sound like a job that you should tackle with Baron Audric de Lire. Fixing knives to a glove really sounds like something the good Captain-General probably did a decade ago. Or yesterday.
I think I smell the next big collaboration of 1010 AR!
Written By Hadrian
Nov. 18, 2018, 1:37 p.m.(1/7/1010 AR)
Our second child is born. He and I are doing wonderfully; Cambria advised me to write that.
He will be called Verus for now. Though I'm sure we'll change it a half dozen more times this month, then another thirteen times before adulthood.
Hadrian III will be debuted in approximately one year. Give or take a few months.
He will be called Verus for now. Though I'm sure we'll change it a half dozen more times this month, then another thirteen times before adulthood.
Hadrian III will be debuted in approximately one year. Give or take a few months.
Written By Hadrian
Oct. 21, 2018, 11:15 a.m.(11/4/1009 AR)
A number of individuals took time out of their busy schedules to relax at the Empirical for a Salon-hosted gathering. Many words were exchanged, in some cases many more drinks were consumed, and I'm especially happy to say that everyone remained rather mature in their discussion. While there were certainly differences of opinion as there always will be during such things; ideas were attacked and not the people speaking them.
The points of view varied greatly. Ranging from Grandmaster Caspian Wild's more hands-on approach to conflict resolution to great insights presented by Lady Lailah Bisland with her fine combination of idealism coupled with pragmatism. There were many points of view, stances, or beliefs put forward. While I can't recall whether Princess Roxana ever remembered what was being discussed, I'm certain she was deep into her cups on account of my not being entirely confident that she even knew who I am.
Marquessa Sunniva Harthall, Lord Luis Igniseri, and Lady Ouida Harthall each provided views that ranged from the scholarly to personal. Each one had an impact on the discussion, especially those who presented more graphic explanations or examples supporting their stance. Let us not forget the keen observations of Lady Isabeau Telmar on the topic of diplomacy and warfare, her own words further reinforcing the intertwined nature of the two concepts. Princess Katarina Valardin put her passion for debate on display and rose above expectations to truly invest herself in the discussion.
I count the meeting as a success and look forward to the completion of Lady Lailah Bisland's trophy. I do hope that everyone involved, in particular those who won't earn a trophy, are prepared for the next debate: whether or not participation awards should be provided as consolation prizes to those who don't make the grade.
The points of view varied greatly. Ranging from Grandmaster Caspian Wild's more hands-on approach to conflict resolution to great insights presented by Lady Lailah Bisland with her fine combination of idealism coupled with pragmatism. There were many points of view, stances, or beliefs put forward. While I can't recall whether Princess Roxana ever remembered what was being discussed, I'm certain she was deep into her cups on account of my not being entirely confident that she even knew who I am.
Marquessa Sunniva Harthall, Lord Luis Igniseri, and Lady Ouida Harthall each provided views that ranged from the scholarly to personal. Each one had an impact on the discussion, especially those who presented more graphic explanations or examples supporting their stance. Let us not forget the keen observations of Lady Isabeau Telmar on the topic of diplomacy and warfare, her own words further reinforcing the intertwined nature of the two concepts. Princess Katarina Valardin put her passion for debate on display and rose above expectations to truly invest herself in the discussion.
I count the meeting as a success and look forward to the completion of Lady Lailah Bisland's trophy. I do hope that everyone involved, in particular those who won't earn a trophy, are prepared for the next debate: whether or not participation awards should be provided as consolation prizes to those who don't make the grade.
Written By Hadrian
Sept. 20, 2018, 3:45 p.m.(8/20/1009 AR)
Extremism, no matter the noble cause or nefarious plot, is still extremism. Finding the balance between the points is not only good for the self, but also wonderful for interactions with others. Frequently people use the adage that we should think of ourselves in the shoes of another - that is how one accomplishes that. By not giving way to extremes, it increases the likelihood that one will be able to meet in the middle and find mutually beneficial endeavors to pursue.
If people would like relative peace and quiet for a change? Perhaps we should consider embracing a more balanced approach to life. Too many cakes can cause the need for a new wardrobe as the ass grows larger and larger, because of our actions. The scales become imbalanced and even righteously intended actions can result in detrimental (and empowering) results on account of an extreme being embraced and indulged. This is why one must stand against zealotry if at all possible. Even fanaticism in pursuit of a purportedly or genuinely 'good' cause, can have a negative backlash by strengthening its opposite.
If people would like relative peace and quiet for a change? Perhaps we should consider embracing a more balanced approach to life. Too many cakes can cause the need for a new wardrobe as the ass grows larger and larger, because of our actions. The scales become imbalanced and even righteously intended actions can result in detrimental (and empowering) results on account of an extreme being embraced and indulged. This is why one must stand against zealotry if at all possible. Even fanaticism in pursuit of a purportedly or genuinely 'good' cause, can have a negative backlash by strengthening its opposite.
Written By Hadrian
Sept. 17, 2018, 1:53 a.m.(8/13/1009 AR)
We've arrived in Westerville and I'll be sending this journal off with a courier. The place is a touch peculiar.
Never have I been more thankful to be surrounded by such visually stunning members of the Peerage and Lord Mirk. I'm not sure that they'll be enough of a buffer between myself and whomever, though.
They're beginning to look toward that manor again and I think they may want to go visit it. The place looks like it was designed and occupied by that one knight in the Iron Guard. It may just be my imagination but I think they even included the detail that is the scent of pork water wafting down from it. I wonder if this is his uncle's home? Maybe a personal vacation spot?
It may just be my imagination.
I must conclude this and send it off promptly before we take the stroll up to Farewell Ponies Manor.
Never have I been more thankful to be surrounded by such visually stunning members of the Peerage and Lord Mirk. I'm not sure that they'll be enough of a buffer between myself and whomever, though.
They're beginning to look toward that manor again and I think they may want to go visit it. The place looks like it was designed and occupied by that one knight in the Iron Guard. It may just be my imagination but I think they even included the detail that is the scent of pork water wafting down from it. I wonder if this is his uncle's home? Maybe a personal vacation spot?
It may just be my imagination.
I must conclude this and send it off promptly before we take the stroll up to Farewell Ponies Manor.
Written By Hadrian
Sept. 2, 2018, 9:24 p.m.(7/6/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
A great many thanks to Dame Ida Ferron for presenting herself, providing her time and efforts toward a most noteworthy cause. You have my sincere appreciation.
If there is to ever be a next time and your opponent is absent, I will readily volunteer Prince Talen to showcase your talents.
If there is to ever be a next time and your opponent is absent, I will readily volunteer Prince Talen to showcase your talents.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.