Written By Medeia
July 31, 2023, 3:28 p.m.(4/9/1020 AR)
On the heels of my writing about spring the other day, I wish to add that this feels like a proper season of renewal. Reconnecting with old friends and making new ones has been a trend recently, and I am glad for it. I have had the pleasure of spending time with people who are warm and caring and genuine, who care deeply about their people and the Compact and fulfilling their duties, who make the time spent in their company pass too quickly on account of how engaging they are. I hope that we all have the chance to find conversation and companionship in the days ahead.
Written By Medeia
July 29, 2023, 7:52 p.m.(4/5/1020 AR)
I am so happy that spring has sprung! While it is early yet and there is snow that needs to melt away and there will be that sludgy-muddy period to come, I am excited for the flowers. And the planting. The time to be in the gardens with my students is upon me.
Also, tea with friends in the gardens. I look forward to spending the time with them.
Also, tea with friends in the gardens. I look forward to spending the time with them.
Written By Medeia
July 23, 2023, 11:27 a.m.(3/20/1020 AR)
It was so lovely to have people in the conservatory for my birthday! The opportunity to just enjoy their company was a true delight, and I even got to see some faces that have been away a while. In times when everything in the world feels like it is teetering, it is important to take the time to celebrate the good things.
I am told that there was, perhaps, too much pink involved in my celebration. There must be some confusion: There is never too much pink.
I am told that there was, perhaps, too much pink involved in my celebration. There must be some confusion: There is never too much pink.
Written By Medeia
July 17, 2023, 7:59 p.m.(3/9/1020 AR)
My 30th birthday approaches in just a few days. Perhaps the occasion calls for a resolution of sorts? Or a party. I could resolve to throw a party. It has been some time since I held an event that was simply meant to be a spectacularly good time.
That might be long overdue.
That might be long overdue.
Written By Medeia
July 6, 2023, 3:58 p.m.(2/16/1020 AR)
The final weeks of winter are always busy. I have begun making lists of the tasks that must be done at the gardens at Saving Grace, the College's grounds, and the sanctuary. Thankfully, there are apprentices and students aplenty to assist, but I have been considering hiring on someone to help me attend to the sanctuary. I love being out in the garden and tending the beds myself! However, there are always priorities that seem to need me more.
Of course, I also need to get down to Saikland to check in on the vineyards and orchards. I am hopeful that the harvest later in the year will provide what is needed for meeting our usual wine production levels and give the opportunity to experiment with some new ideas I have had.
I think I will see if anyone would like to come along for a visit to Saikland. It would be good to have some travel companions.
Of course, I also need to get down to Saikland to check in on the vineyards and orchards. I am hopeful that the harvest later in the year will provide what is needed for meeting our usual wine production levels and give the opportunity to experiment with some new ideas I have had.
I think I will see if anyone would like to come along for a visit to Saikland. It would be good to have some travel companions.
Written By Medeia
July 2, 2023, 4:40 p.m.(2/8/1020 AR)
I was reminded recently how trust is one of the most vulnerable things to give someone. It is a beautiful and fragile thing, but if it is tended properly? It can grow beyond the garden it is planted in. I am ever grateful to those who allow me to cultivate their trust so it can grow roots.
Written By Medeia
June 28, 2023, 6:29 p.m.(1/28/1020 AR)
I did it. I went to the Queensrest for the first time since my uncle's death. It was so strange to enter and have the staff and patrons react so normally - effusively, if I am being honest, the outpouring of attention nearly made me turn around and walk right back out! It has been years, now, more than five, and I could not help but remember it the way I saw it last.
A bit of good fortune saw me graced by the presence of Prince Patrizio. Being able to join him and engage in conversation helped to put me at ease. Some pumpkin cake helped, too.
Still, that was a difficult moment. I am grateful that I experienced it, though. Now, I might be able to work toward healing that broken part of my heart.
A bit of good fortune saw me graced by the presence of Prince Patrizio. Being able to join him and engage in conversation helped to put me at ease. Some pumpkin cake helped, too.
Still, that was a difficult moment. I am grateful that I experienced it, though. Now, I might be able to work toward healing that broken part of my heart.
Written By Medeia
June 25, 2023, 7:18 p.m.(1/22/1020 AR)
The folly of youth is such that, sometimes, one makes a dire mistake. When such mistakes happen, it is important to have people who care enough to provide guidance so that the mistake can be addressed in a constructive way. Who among us can say that we have not accidentally burned a large portion of established vineyard to ash in the middle of the night while meeting up with someone we fancy?
Perhaps that is too specific an example. And, despite it sounding exactly like a circumstance that could have occurred at Saikland, I at least can say that the example does not stem from my - or my family's - experiences. Unfortunately, it is a scenario that came to pass in Lenosia.
It took far less time than I had expected to discover the source of the fire, and I am so relieved that it was not a malicious act. However, malice or no, that mistake by one young man has caused extensive damage that will have long-lasting effects on the production of Lenosian Red. I am pleased to be able to help put a plan in place to allow the young man a chance to make up for his indiscretions.
I hope he is prepared for years of me checking in on him.
Perhaps that is too specific an example. And, despite it sounding exactly like a circumstance that could have occurred at Saikland, I at least can say that the example does not stem from my - or my family's - experiences. Unfortunately, it is a scenario that came to pass in Lenosia.
It took far less time than I had expected to discover the source of the fire, and I am so relieved that it was not a malicious act. However, malice or no, that mistake by one young man has caused extensive damage that will have long-lasting effects on the production of Lenosian Red. I am pleased to be able to help put a plan in place to allow the young man a chance to make up for his indiscretions.
I hope he is prepared for years of me checking in on him.
Written By Medeia
June 21, 2023, 2:52 p.m.(1/13/1020 AR)
I have generally held that people are often more alike than different. Yet some differences seem to be enough to have us tearing each other down. It is in the moments when we find the similarities that we bridge the gaps between us.
Learning that someone also spent their childhood dashing barefoot through an orchard is perhaps not so strange a thing - there have been people and orchards and children for generations upon generations. Even so, it is such a delightful thing to learn about another person, especially when that person was raised speaking another language in a land far from your own.
I am ever more ready for time in the gardens and vineyards after winter.
Learning that someone also spent their childhood dashing barefoot through an orchard is perhaps not so strange a thing - there have been people and orchards and children for generations upon generations. Even so, it is such a delightful thing to learn about another person, especially when that person was raised speaking another language in a land far from your own.
I am ever more ready for time in the gardens and vineyards after winter.
Written By Medeia
June 20, 2023, 6:22 p.m.(1/12/1020 AR)
I had reason to be out in the weather today and saw that Heart of Stone was open on my way to the market. Cufre's work is always worth stopping to admire, and I think I would have come out to see these citrine and aquamarine beauties on purpose in the snow! I love how she combined these disparate stones. It is even more amazing that she created different necklaces to match the rings!
I hope that others go and spoil themselves with her creations. She is such a talent.
I hope that others go and spoil themselves with her creations. She is such a talent.
Written By Medeia
June 18, 2023, 11:55 a.m.(1/7/1020 AR)
Princess Denica's mural on the ceiling of the Elysian Ballroom at Whisper House is stunning. Truly unparalleled artistry! The details are fine, the blending of stories masterful. I am uncertain if I became dizzy due to its magnificence or having to tilt my head back so long to admire it - I think Lucita's suggestion to put chaise lounges in the ballroom is an excellent one. It was absolutely worth traipsing across the Sovereign in such snowy conditions, and I am thankful to Radiant Aconite for her gracious hospitality.
Written By Medeia
June 14, 2023, 9:43 p.m.(12/28/1019 AR)
It had been too long since I last sat a spell in the shrine of the Queen of Endings. I certainly owed her some time. It seems I still have the ability to remain still enough that the spiders eventually end up in my hair. Getting them out when leaving required the aid of a disciple.
How very odd it was to regard the skulls - especially those for the people I have cared about - and note the changes in my life since last I sat and looked at them. It makes me grateful that I still have the opportunity for change.
Once, I cared very much about making my uncle proud. Then, I cared very much about avenging him. Now? I am uncertain if I did either. I am further uncertain if it matters if I did or did not make him proud or avenge him.
There are so many living people - and spiders - to be concerned with.
How very odd it was to regard the skulls - especially those for the people I have cared about - and note the changes in my life since last I sat and looked at them. It makes me grateful that I still have the opportunity for change.
Once, I cared very much about making my uncle proud. Then, I cared very much about avenging him. Now? I am uncertain if I did either. I am further uncertain if it matters if I did or did not make him proud or avenge him.
There are so many living people - and spiders - to be concerned with.
Written By Medeia
June 11, 2023, 9:27 a.m.(12/21/1019 AR)
The Longest Night brings with it a bedeviled mix of emotions this year. I am happy to celebrate my youngest's second birthday. However, there is so much that has happened, that has led to this moment, that surrounds my heart and mind. He is too little to understand the circumstances. I am not even certain that I do.
I do know that I look to Lagoma for guidance as I navigate the changes in my life. I stand fast in my devotion to my duties for house and Compact. I uphold the sacred nature of choice.
The days ahead will be brighter.
I do know that I look to Lagoma for guidance as I navigate the changes in my life. I stand fast in my devotion to my duties for house and Compact. I uphold the sacred nature of choice.
The days ahead will be brighter.
Written By Medeia
June 9, 2023, 2:53 p.m.(12/17/1019 AR)
I have prided myself on being someone open to different perspectives, someone willing to listen when I might be wrong. This openness does not always change my mind, but I think it is the mark of a strong person if one can learn and grow and recognize when they have been working without pieces of knowledge that are helpful.
It may take someone a long time to learn from others - even if they are otherwise brilliant. In fact, I suspect that being smart may be a slight hindrance to this process, as being smart has the chance of convincing one that they are correct about more than they are.
All this to say: I think I have been wrong about something. For years. In life-altering ways.
I pray I walk the difficult path ahead with grace.
It may take someone a long time to learn from others - even if they are otherwise brilliant. In fact, I suspect that being smart may be a slight hindrance to this process, as being smart has the chance of convincing one that they are correct about more than they are.
All this to say: I think I have been wrong about something. For years. In life-altering ways.
I pray I walk the difficult path ahead with grace.
Written By Medeia
May 14, 2023, 2:53 p.m.(10/21/1019 AR)
It was truly an honor to be able to attend the wedding reception of Marquis Kael Keaton and Marquessa-consort Keely Keaton nee Grayson. The marquis has been a kind acquaintance for several years, and I find it nearly impossible not to adore the former princess. I feel they are well matched in many ways! And I do look forward to seeing the wonderful things they will accomplish together. What a privilege to be able to celebrate this new chapter in their lives.
It was further a joy to be able to join forces with Lord Kastelon. We put ourselves to the thest of communication and collaboration, claiming victory in the game the marquis and marquessa set us to. I had to leave fairly soon after that due to an emergency at the hospital, which is a shame. I hear I missed quite the incident involving the chocolate fountain.
It was further a joy to be able to join forces with Lord Kastelon. We put ourselves to the thest of communication and collaboration, claiming victory in the game the marquis and marquessa set us to. I had to leave fairly soon after that due to an emergency at the hospital, which is a shame. I hear I missed quite the incident involving the chocolate fountain.
Written By Medeia
May 7, 2023, 8:41 a.m.(10/7/1019 AR)
It is hard to believe I spent most of the spring and summer with my head down, focused on the quiet but ever-present duties that come with the roles I have the honor of fulfilling. I am glad to report that much more of my time was spent attending births and welcoming souls than tending the ills and injuries of the city. It has been a long time since the scales tipped for that particular imbalance. And after that awful storm, there was much work to be done to restore the garden at the sanctuary. I am pleased to say that it recovered beautifully and flourishes as it has any other year. The final push for harvest to make the last batch of medicines for the year will come in a month or so.
It is hard to admit that I have been remiss in social obligations. There once was a time when I could be found everywhere, seemingly all at once. It is harder to do when the rest of the house is back home, focusing on the things that needed doing in the wake of the war. That, too, has been quiet, which I can only assume is good - bad news tends to travel much faster across the waters.
And there are weddings to attend, soon! What a lovely thing. It has been a true relief to have things to feel hopeful about.
It is hard to admit that I have been remiss in social obligations. There once was a time when I could be found everywhere, seemingly all at once. It is harder to do when the rest of the house is back home, focusing on the things that needed doing in the wake of the war. That, too, has been quiet, which I can only assume is good - bad news tends to travel much faster across the waters.
And there are weddings to attend, soon! What a lovely thing. It has been a true relief to have things to feel hopeful about.
Written By Medeia
March 30, 2023, 11:03 a.m.(7/15/1019 AR)
Relationship Note on Haakon
Today marks five years since Haakon and I stood together and said our vows of marriage before Limerance (and family, friends, morbidly curious onlookers) within the Thrax estate.
Every year since has felt like a whole lifetime. There have been wars and losses I dare not count for the sorrow that would settle in my heart. However, I have been blessed to have my husband at my side through it all. I am grateful to have had five lifetimes with this man. A lady could not ask for a lord more dutiful, strong, and unlikely to tell her "no."
Of course, this is a dual celebration, as I like to tease him for getting a wife as a birthday present. I, as much as anyone, am surprised he has survived four full decades. And how lucky for him that he gets to revel in that with people so thoroughly dedicated to pestering him? (The children, of course.) (Yes, and also me. He is so fun to pester.)
Every year since has felt like a whole lifetime. There have been wars and losses I dare not count for the sorrow that would settle in my heart. However, I have been blessed to have my husband at my side through it all. I am grateful to have had five lifetimes with this man. A lady could not ask for a lord more dutiful, strong, and unlikely to tell her "no."
Of course, this is a dual celebration, as I like to tease him for getting a wife as a birthday present. I, as much as anyone, am surprised he has survived four full decades. And how lucky for him that he gets to revel in that with people so thoroughly dedicated to pestering him? (The children, of course.) (Yes, and also me. He is so fun to pester.)
Written By Medeia
March 5, 2023, 8:18 a.m.(5/21/1019 AR)
I have spent the hours since waking up to the discovery of dead Elfblight orchids trying to learn of the cause, and perhaps, beginning to devise a solution. As someone who spends a lot of time in gardens, and not just for the pretty surrounds, I am hopeful that I can help in this. There is so much still to learn and test in this endeavor.
Written By Medeia
Dec. 18, 2022, 12:43 p.m.(1/25/1019 AR)
Dagon is dead.
I was on a ship too far off to see it happen myself, but I know that it is done. I had hoped that this would ease some of the ache I still feel whenever I think of the late duchess and how dear she was to me. Sadly, this does not soothe my heart.
Perhaps I am too weary after so much devastation to feel much passion for the continued war. Do not mistake that statement for anything akin to weakness or flagging support of the high lord. No. Still? I want it to end.
I was on a ship too far off to see it happen myself, but I know that it is done. I had hoped that this would ease some of the ache I still feel whenever I think of the late duchess and how dear she was to me. Sadly, this does not soothe my heart.
Perhaps I am too weary after so much devastation to feel much passion for the continued war. Do not mistake that statement for anything akin to weakness or flagging support of the high lord. No. Still? I want it to end.
Written By Medeia
Nov. 20, 2022, 3:39 p.m.(11/25/1018 AR)
I suppose I should take comfort in the fact that not only was the recent Assembly of Peers short, it was quiet. I had expected to hear some further news of my sister or novel horrors across the Compact. Instead, it was mundane as can be - given the rebuilding of Artshall and sinkholes across the lands are still concerns.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.