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Written By Valencia

Oct. 11, 2020, 9:37 p.m.(3/8/1014 AR)

I know winter is not for everyone and that there is much about it that vexes or causes trouble for many. However, I must say that I adore it so. Even as much I love the fresh green scent of a new spring, the promise of a crisp and richly coloured autumn or the glorious heat of a sensual summer.

Much like people, there is always something wonderful to be found and enjoyed in every season.

However, this year, I am especially grateful for the extra chill. It makes harvesting ice for my Hart's growing cellars and expanded storage much more easier.

Thank goodness Missere Master Barkeep Maggnus and my dearest Lizette were so clever to bring this to my attention. Not only with regard to the expansion that will allow us to keep our guests very well cared for well throughout the year, but that we might harvest more ice than before.

Clever indeed. With so much success we have found that we are able to doubled the number of staff to see to this work and ensure that we are all very well set when summer's heat returns.

I wonder if our guests will remember the wicked, icy kiss of this winter as they seek a little bit of our ice to soothe them.

~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Oct. 4, 2020, 3:23 p.m.(2/22/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Kastelon

It is not often that I am offered such excellent escort to an event, but I must say that Lord Kastelon of Keaton’s kind care and wonderful company left me with a smile upon my lips and a happy hum in my heart.

The poor unsuspecting gentleman was kind enough to attend lovely Marquessa Quenia Igniseri, Baroness Lucita Saik and Lady Yelana Igniseri’s most excellent dinner with me.

We arrived late due to a previous engagement, but thankfully our gracious hostesses were, as always, so kind and gracious to us. The company they gathered was excellent. Seeing Lord Ian, Lady Zoey and Lady Catalana was a delight. I was sad to not see Lord Wash. Lady Medeia was charming as ever and I was thrilled to see Marquis Oskar and his lovely wife the Marquessa Norah, their sweet baby and their formidable Voice, Lord Haakon, there as well.

To be true, it was such a fine group to keep company with and it is was so lovely to see such wonderful people again. I even suspect I might have made Lord Haakon smile, which for some reason tickles me greatly.

I grow fond of Lord Kastelon. He is honourable, charming and his humour is warm and never unkind. There is no arrogance about him. His calm, self-assurance is refined and a delight to experience. He is also and excellent climber of trees as I recently learned in the company of Missere Gerrick, Lady Gehenna and Lady Poppy.

I look forward to more time in his company.

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Oct. 4, 2020, 3:21 p.m.(2/22/1014 AR)

I adore it when someone’s work is appreciated and even more excited when the work done is in the name of raising spirits and support for good causes.

So, it cannot surprise anyone that the kind and talented souls who participated our Hart’s inaugural Winter Poetry Contest and Fundraiser hosted by the lovely Lady Emberly of Farshaw brings such joy to my heart.

The talent shared was excellent and the donations to support the orphans of Arx were very generous. Thanks to Lady Farshaw’s hard work and the kindness and care shown by our poets, guests and donors a remarkable sum of 317,000 in silver was raised for this very good cause

Even the King himself saw fit to come and not only attend but to share a poem himself. The talent of our other artists, Legate Ailith, Lady Amelie Wyvernheart, Misser Orick Rose, Missere Ripley Thornburn, Scout Rowenova, Marquis Valerius Malespero and Lady Emberly Farshaw – was also so inspiring. I know the decision to select a winner was difficult, but in the end, it was the Legate Ailith’s haunting and hopeful poem that captured the audience’s heart.

We have so many generous donors as well, though I hesitate to name them here as some may wish to keep their donations anonymous, but I would be remiss if I didn’t note the generosity of Duke Aiden Rubino and Marquis Valerius Malespero whose remarkable donation when tallied together represented a leonine 225,000 in silver.

I am always so grateful to see such generosity among our citizens and what can be done to help our realm when we all come together. Every silver helps in such things and thanks to this wonderful night so many children will be helped.

I also adore that I am be able to support Lady Farshaw in her fundraising efforts. She has a true talent for such endeavors, I think. I very much look forward to working with her in future. I think she will make a great difference to the Hart and to so many others. I cannot wait to see what she plans next.

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Sept. 27, 2020, 2:03 p.m.(2/8/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Kastelon

Lord Kastelon of Keaton, another new face in Arx this season which I have come to appreciate.

He is, of course, handsome, charming and a true delight as many of the Keatons are. But he is also warm with a quick sense of humour, always even-keeled, occasionally reserved, genuinely kind and beautifully blessed with an honest and earnest earthiness that is quite refreshing to see.

I have noticed that there never seems to be any false pretense or manipulations with him. On the whole, he simply is who he seems to be.

Some may say that this in itself is a rarity, but I think has what charmed me most was his kind confidence and sense of honour. He seems a man who who truly keeps his word and pays his debts. Regardless of generous offers others might make, he seems to truly unmoved to falter from this.

Many may swoon and whisper about his other admirable qualities, but I find that is something that makes one take note and wish to know him better.

~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Sept. 26, 2020, 9:39 p.m.(2/6/1014 AR)

There are some people in this world who are like a fresh breeze and a golden kiss of sunlight about them. No matter where they are they seem to have a beautiful way of bringing out the best out in those they are with.

It makes my heart smile to see such social artistry in action. Instead of drawing all eyes solely to their own attention, they honestly and earnestly seek to bring light to all in the room so that all may delight in the moment.

To witness this is perhaps one of the things I love best in this world. To see people so confidant and kind that they think nothing of sharing their light with others in their company so that they, too, have chance to blossom and bloom and be seen at the best.

That is the art and artistry of true courtiers and courtesans to be true.

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Sept. 13, 2020, 6:41 p.m.(1/8/1014 AR)

Winter has come and with it the warmth of happy acquaintances new and renewed.

Many new friends and connections made. Many new friends seen after my absence from society. The weather is refreshing and bracing. I have missed the snows that make the world dizzy with white and my breath catch with the cool. New events to be hosted at my Hart and it seems more full than ever of excellent and lovely people. I am over the moon at this!

I have also found that there is a growing interest in the Houses of Avrum welcoming Harts of their own n their cities and ports. The idea of each house benefit from the work done here makes me so happy. Perhaps it will not be long before all the best houses will host a Golden Hart of their to help their people on a local level.

So much to speak about. I shall endeavor to speak more specifically soon. But if this is the beginning of the season, I am absolutely excited to see what else may come. I think it might be a winter to remember in all the best ways. (Though I tap upon the table often so as not to jinx this with my delight and praise.)

~~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Aug. 29, 2020, 12:57 p.m.(12/6/1013 AR)

Why am I so kind and welcoming all the time? Because it is something that I wish to see more of in the world.

It feels right. It costs me nothing to do so and yet the rewards are so plentiful. There are times the gift of a warm word or earnest gesture can make all the difference to another who might need it but cannot speak.

Does it mean I lack ambition or I am weak? That I have no temper or passion? That I am without steel beneath the silks I love to wear?

Not at all. It is just my preferred way of being. That is all.

~~~~~~~<~<~<@

Written By Valencia

Aug. 23, 2020, 4:37 p.m.(11/22/1013 AR)

I am so excited at the prospect expanding my Hart to help others not just in Arx, but across the realm. And, thanks to vision and wisdom of many good lords and ladies, it seems that this dream is finding way to becoming a beautiful reality.

Many know the good work we do to help the people of Arx and Avrum. The success of the Hart is undeniable. And, it is this success that we wish to share with so many. So that each community has a Hart of its own -- a joyful, safe and welcoming place to gather people together to raise spirits and support for good causes on a local level.

With a Hart in every city and port, imagine all the good that could be done. Every House of our realm will have a chance to more fully prosper as they build upon and benefit from our success. So much more could be done and those in need helped. All of our peoples, and Avrum as a whole, would be in a better position than ever before to grow, thrive and become stronger.

I pray that more houses reach out to me to discuss bringing a Hart into their home as well.

Imagine all the good that could come of it.

~~~~~~<~~<~~<@

Written By Valencia

Aug. 2, 2020, 9:45 p.m.(10/8/1013 AR)

Can it truly be that we have hosted forty Sip n' Spar events already?

I never realized how many we had hosted until my lady Lizette and Master Barkeep Maggnus pointed this out to me as we prepared for tonight. It has been such great fun and such a pleasure to do that I think I utterly forgot to note number.

I am so very grateful to those who fill my Hart with such happiness, high spirits and laughter. Humbled by the good will, kindness and generosity. And, so very inspired by all that join meet here.

I am grateful my Hart is making a difference in Arx. Even more grateful to bring so many together.

Here's to another 40 more! Here's to those who make it such a success! And, here's more wonderful times ahead!

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

July 12, 2020, 3:03 p.m.(8/22/1013 AR)

More plans laid to open my Hart to all of Avrum. I am excited to see more good come of it and soon.

~~~~~<~(@

Written By Valencia

July 5, 2020, 1:35 p.m.(8/8/1013 AR)

Again, I am filled with the deepest gratitude to those kind and generous souls who offered their assistance as we raised funds to help the Hart bring good things to Arx and Avrum.

I very much look forward to recognizing the kind donations of Lord Alban Farshaw, Lady Amieli Igniseri, Lady Braelynn Deepwood on behalf of House Deepwood, Prince Dimitri Velenosa, Baroness Lucita Saik, Lady Piccola Tessere on behalf of of House Tessere and our other generous donors who wished to remain anonymous at this time.

Thanks to their generosity our Hart can continue to work hard to raise spirits, silver and support so that all in our realm may grow and thrive.

To be true, good people like these who give without hesitation to my Hart humbled and heartened me. To see how much can be achieved when we work together will never stop to amaze and inspire me. It is so vital to our realm's success regardless of efforts or cause.

Again, my heart goes to all of our generous supporters -- past, present and future. You are beautiful reminders of hope in an oft empty and dark sky.

~~~~~~~<~~<~(@

Written By Valencia

June 28, 2020, 6:36 p.m.(7/22/1013 AR)

Enough of waiting for others and things that may never come.

More than ever before, now seems to be the time to turn eyes to the future. Time to follow my own dreams and passions. Time to let my Hart open wider and to grow bigger than before. Time to move forward and to see what might be in store.

I know it will not always be easy. And, I know my journey may be long. But hopefully it will continue in excellent company and with event greater fortune.

~~~~~~<~<~(@

Written By Valencia

June 28, 2020, 4:51 p.m.(7/22/1013 AR)

Another excellent Sip n'Spar event at my Hart and even more wonderful donations have been made to help our Hart make our city and realm a better place for all.

I am so very grateful to those who care so deeply for this city and donate to the Hart so often and so generously. They inspire me with their kindness and vision for a better Arx. Out of respect, I will wait to hear back from them to see if they are willing to be publicly acknowledged for their donations, but it goes without saying how grateful I am for their kindness, generosity and love of community.

As ever the Golden Hart vows to continue to raise spirits, silver and support so that all in our realm may thrive and be strong.

And again, and I cannot say this enough, thank you to all our generous supporters -- past, present and future.

I know together we can do so much.

~~~~~~~<~~<~(@

Written By Valencia

June 20, 2020, 7:36 p.m.(7/6/1013 AR)

I have never before been so happy to write my first proclamation on behalf of the Hart. My heart is so full to know what a success this was. I cannot wait to do more. There is so much to be done.

The proclamation reads as follows:

My lords and ladies, misseres and madams, dearest friends,

On behalf of the Golden Hart, it is with deepest gratitude and the greatest pleasure that I would like to recognize and thank the following kind souls who offered their generous assistance as we raised funds to help bring relief to those in need in the Lower Burroughs district of our city.

Thanks to their tremendous generosity, when matched, as pledged, with an additional 100,000 in silver from a private donor, we were able to raise a remarkable 509,500 in writs and silver to help this very important cause.

Please join us in recognizing and saluting the kind and generous support of Mistress Nurie Baseborn and the House of Tessere, Count Graham Byrne, Lady Mikani Crovane, Lady Thea Malvici, Lord Strozza Mazetti, Missere Tarik Morien, Wolf Scout Rowenova and the gallant Sir Floppington, Marquis Malesh Stonewood, Lady Piccola Tessere and our other generous donors who wished to remain anonymous at this time.

We also wish to offer our deepest thanks and acknowledge the generous donation made in the final memory of Prince Luca of Grayson, and for the Thousands Unseen, Save by the Gods.

The importance of helping those in need is vital to our city's survival and success. And, we recognize that there is much more to be done.

However, as these generous donors have shown, so much can be achieved when we all work together.

As such, the Golden Hart vows to continue to endeavor to raise spirits, silver and support so that all in our realm may rise, thrive and be strong -- and, we whole-heartedly invite and encourage others to join with us and the many others who are striving to help and raise support for good works and those in need.

Again, thank you so much to all of our generous supporters -- past, present and future. You are an inspiration to us.

Humbly presented, by my hand,
with sincerest gratitude and pleasure,

The Princess Valencia Velenosa
Keeper of the Golden Hart

~~~~~~~<~~<~(@

Written By Valencia

June 7, 2020, 8:24 p.m.(6/8/1013 AR)

My Hart's roof garden and terrace has truly grown and had come into its own this spring.

I adore to spend time up above it all. The views of the city and sea, especially at night when it feels like I am flying above inky black velvet kissed by glowing jewels of light. It makes me feel closer to the heavens. Especially with the right company.

I love this city. This realm. And those who call it home. Gods above and below, how lucky I am to know so many people in this world that bring a smile to my lips and a skip of delight to my heart. And, how lucky I am there are so many more to get to know.

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

June 7, 2020, 7:37 p.m.(6/8/1013 AR)

Relationship Note on Piccola

I had the great pleasure of meeting the lovely Lady Piccola at my last Sip n'Spar and have since exchanged missives with her. She has some excellent ideas for helping to raise more funds to help others. I approve, appreciate and adore this so very much.

It is often hard for me to get to know every as much as I wish to, especially when I am hosting an event as raucous and busy as one of our tournaments. But for some reason the lady stood out from the crowd.

Perhaps it was her pensive pacing that caught eye and caused me to worry for her, but at the end of it all, she seemed to find her own graceful footing. I can understand feeling nervous though. But what I liked is that she didn't let it stop her.

She seems a bright and kind soul with a clever mind and a charitable heart. From our few encounters thus fair, I think I like her very much. I hope we become good friends.

~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

June 7, 2020, 3:16 p.m.(6/8/1013 AR)

I have heard it said that one must not only strive to be good, but one must also strive to do good.

I have thought on this a lot this week in the chaos that followed our last big event at the Hart. And now that the donations have all be accounted for, I am heartened and so very touched to see so many who wish to do good for our city and people.

The generosity of those who attended our Sip n’ Spar event leaves me so very humbled. To know so many from across Arx would come together to raise 409,500 in silver and writs in a single night leaves me nearly speechless and undeniably hopeful.

As some may be humble in their generosity, I will not name them today, but will seek permission to share their names so they may be recognized as those who not only care for those in need but are willing to do something to help. Every donation to such a cause counts, and I am grateful and so thankful to one and all for help us with his endeavor.

As promised, we will add another 100,500 silver to the donation to bring the donation to a full 510,000 in silver. It is not enough, but I hope that this will help at least a little.

It never fails to amaze how much we can do if we all work together. I hope to host another event to add even more to this cause. For Avrum to be strong, we must ensure that all our citizens are cared for. With this in mind, the Golden Hart will continue to work to collect donations to help those in need in the Lowers.

My thanks to all who came to the event and to those who were able to give so generously. And, for those who have not yet had chance to help, I hope they will consider.

My heart to everyone.

~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

May 31, 2020, 3:40 p.m.(5/22/1013 AR)

I am excited. Tonight, after a long hiatus, we are again hosting a Sip n'Spar event at my Hart.

It has been some time since we hosted such an event and my ladies and gentlemen have been working so hard to make sure everything is ready for our guests. Mistress Lizette, Missere Master Barkeep Maggnus, Sergeant of Arms McDougal and Mercy Zofia all assure that all is ready and will be perfect. I love how much attention they all pay to their work and how excited they are as well.

I hope everyone enjoys themselves. I love that so many people from all over Arx feel welcome in my Hart. A place for all of Arx to gather -- nobles, members of the Faith and commoners alike. All welcome and wanted here.

I also hope we raise much silver to support the people of the Lowers. I have decided to match whatever sum is raised today up to a total of 100,000 silver. I hope people are generous as always. Together we can help so many.

I love that my Hart does this as well -- raises spirits and silver for good people and good causes. If it offers some help, some good and some hope, then all this work is worth every moment and I do it so very gladly.

I am so grateful to those who support us in our work. You are the magic in all that we do.

~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

May 9, 2020, 5:22 p.m.(4/6/1013 AR)

Elated! Spring is finally here!

I adore all that winter brings, but, oh, how I have ached to feel the lush green return to barren land and to wake to the sweet fragrance of blossoms again.

The first bloom of lover's kiss has come early this year. I picked some as I walked in the gardens today. That scent always makes me feel wild and and a little rash. It reminds me of sultry summer nights at home. I tucked some into my hair to let its perfume linger for a while.

I think I shall ask Lizette to see that we have fresh lover's kiss in my rooms from now on. I love how that scent makes me feel and I want to be reminded of how beautiful life can be.

~~~~~~~~<~<@

Written By Valencia

May 6, 2020, 1:41 a.m.(3/27/1013 AR)

I do so love a happy ending.

~~~~~~<~<@

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