Written By Hadrian
March 12, 2017, 6:19 p.m.(1/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Karadoc
One of the Saiks, he strikes me as the sort who prefers intellectual or social pursuits, perhaps both. While he seems to believe himself the black sheep, I'd like to think my words to him may inspire him to pursue something other than such a self-defeating attitude. It is only a matter of time for him to become established, make connections, and begin meeting new and interesting people. Then begin work in earnest. I imagine there will be plenty of unexpected results out of him, while I expect I will enjoy sitting back and quietly congratulating myself on being right. It will be positively delightful.
Written By Hadrian
March 12, 2017, 2:13 p.m.(1/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Artorius
Another cousin to have made an appearance in Arx. A welcome sight and sword arm, no doubt. He brought his young daughter along with him, which is unfortunate given what the city faces soon but I can not blame him for not wishing to put his own offspring beyond his own reach. Let us hope that our many brave and skilled warriors are capable of holding back the tide and ensuring that the fighting does not reach these streets. From what I've gathered he was able to best my sister in a duel, which of course gives me pause because of the simple issue of that being my sister, but it gives me some reassurance that Artorius will not be just another body to be in the way of the warriors. He will be right there alongside them and will no doubt do his family name proud.
His daughter, Serah, seems to be a scrupulous young lady. Judgmental possibly. She has no issues, even at her young age, with openly surveying those she encounters as though she were taking their full measure before committing her willingness to address. I will say this much for the young lady however, she seems unwilling to call champions into the perceived slights. When she seemed to display some manner of issue with myself, I instructed her to call her champion and be done with it. She did not.
I guess I win. Your move, Serah.
His daughter, Serah, seems to be a scrupulous young lady. Judgmental possibly. She has no issues, even at her young age, with openly surveying those she encounters as though she were taking their full measure before committing her willingness to address. I will say this much for the young lady however, she seems unwilling to call champions into the perceived slights. When she seemed to display some manner of issue with myself, I instructed her to call her champion and be done with it. She did not.
I guess I win. Your move, Serah.
Written By Hadrian
March 2, 2017, 2:53 p.m.(1/8/1006 AR)
A wedding! I love weddings; from the rum to the wine, the people to the celebration -everyone is happy, and these festivals last for days on end in Southport. I suppose I have a little something to do with that, my people know me as rather fond of parties. Why, one birthday party I threw lasted an entire week. Mother was not too thrilled about that, heh.
That's not the most interesting and dramatic detail, however, because what sets my love for theatrics in a flurry of excitement is the simple fact that the bride and groom are a Fidante and Malvici, respectively. This is something that I would not have expected to happen in my lifetime, since Lucien's... Well, nevermind that. My cousin, Inigo, and Calista -who I have always known to be a dangerously smart, strong woman- are to be wed. I could not be more thrilled.
That's not the most interesting and dramatic detail, however, because what sets my love for theatrics in a flurry of excitement is the simple fact that the bride and groom are a Fidante and Malvici, respectively. This is something that I would not have expected to happen in my lifetime, since Lucien's... Well, nevermind that. My cousin, Inigo, and Calista -who I have always known to be a dangerously smart, strong woman- are to be wed. I could not be more thrilled.
Written By Hadrian
Feb. 26, 2017, 8:41 p.m.(12/28/1005 AR)
Perhaps it is coming to a time to be more ambitious. I have a strong House, not many are stronger. Perhaps Malvici deserves more. I deserve more. Perhaps idle thoughts are merely entertained by an inebriated hand. Where does Fate cast its dice?
Written By Hadrian
Feb. 26, 2017, 8:02 p.m.(12/28/1005 AR)
Things are confusing. I'm often finding myself suspicious of others, paranoid, and on guard -moreso than before. It isn't like it was when I wasn't sleeping, this is more organic and less sleep-deprived, but I certainly need to break the mindset. It is difficult to trust, but trust is required in these times. The scariest part is taking a chance on who to trust, and who not to. Because if you're wrong, it could end very badly, and people end up hurt. I guess that is what makes it easy to not trust anyone and guard one's self, because there is no risk to bearing that hurt. And, if you don't know who to trust, then just pretend you do.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 29, 2017, 4:46 p.m.(10/17/1005 AR)
Well, I lost the duel. Kima's a great fighter though, and were many to bet on that, I think many would've lost their coin -I certainly didn't think she would lose, and I'm not any less proud of how she fared. So my apology was issued, and thus the matter has been put to rest. I am glad my attention can now be more largely focused on the threats to Arx and Southport; Bringers, Gyre, demons...
You'd think there'd be a break in there somewhere, right? No, life attacks. It attacks and attacks in a relentless onslaught meant to bring you down. Meant to hurt you, meant to break your resolve and your fortitude. I am by no means a master of fortitude, and I oft find myself wondering if I am worthy of the title I bear. Perhaps my sister would be a better Duchess. Perhaps my aunt. My mother was. But, more than I am afraid that I am failing, is my determination to continue. I used to be skilled at politics. I can be again. Loved and hated, simultaneously, feared and revered, harsh and gentle.
Plus I could always just pretend I am all of these, if I am not. Hah.
You'd think there'd be a break in there somewhere, right? No, life attacks. It attacks and attacks in a relentless onslaught meant to bring you down. Meant to hurt you, meant to break your resolve and your fortitude. I am by no means a master of fortitude, and I oft find myself wondering if I am worthy of the title I bear. Perhaps my sister would be a better Duchess. Perhaps my aunt. My mother was. But, more than I am afraid that I am failing, is my determination to continue. I used to be skilled at politics. I can be again. Loved and hated, simultaneously, feared and revered, harsh and gentle.
Plus I could always just pretend I am all of these, if I am not. Hah.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 21, 2017, 2:50 p.m.(9/21/1005 AR)
This is certainly interesting. A professed descendant, supposedly, of House Marin has been winning favor among the Prodigals throughout the Compact, a Princess she calls herself. House Marin is also the flag of our current foe, the pirate king the Gyre, who has been terrorizing the seas and thickly entrenched in war with Thrax. House Pravus, following the girl's proclamation of her heritage, withdrew their protection of her immediately -a hasty move, in my opinion. Who knows if she's telling the truth or lying -does that even matter? She is gaining enough support of Prodigals to be worth an investigation, at the very least.
I hesitate to pass judgement or opinion upon her so early, so I have remained silent. Ultimately, with the ancestry and history of House Marin, it falls upon Thrax to decide. With their finality could I have a true opinion -any decisions earlier are, in my opinion, too hasty.
I hesitate to pass judgement or opinion upon her so early, so I have remained silent. Ultimately, with the ancestry and history of House Marin, it falls upon Thrax to decide. With their finality could I have a true opinion -any decisions earlier are, in my opinion, too hasty.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 17, 2017, 2:48 a.m.(9/7/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Inigo
Cousin
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 13, 2017, 11:37 p.m.(8/26/1005 AR)
Nox'alfachoo. I can never remember how to pronounce it, Hell, even spell it. They were somewhat shorter than I expected, though by no means for a lack of height. I was the first on the scene. When the envoy arrived. A chance, an opportunity to separate myself on this global stage rather than simply Arx. Joboo right on my shoulder as I did so. I looked at them. I greeted them. I joked, the monkey screeched, clapped, I listened to them. The one, the male I mean, he seemed entirely displeased to be there, and was snarky about it -I loved it. The woman, she didn't seem so happy. She seemed as if everything was beneath her. It was both endearing and utter infuriating; I'm not quite sure what to think of it.
That is, until they mentioned that they required blood. What has the Compact gotten itself into? How delightfully horrible. Maybe I'll see them around. Or maybe, hopefully, we'll figure something out and put an end to this.
That is, until they mentioned that they required blood. What has the Compact gotten itself into? How delightfully horrible. Maybe I'll see them around. Or maybe, hopefully, we'll figure something out and put an end to this.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Duchess Belladonna's birthday! I love parties, it is perhaps the dangerous combination of alcohol, new faces, and the generally upbeat atmosphere; everybody is happy, nobody seems to worry, and it's an energy that I feel most comfortable in. Merry people make merry conversation, faces have smiles, and people fawn over each other after a distant, long absence -parties are delightful.
This one was not. I had some earrings made, thought I was clever, Joboo and I arrived at their estate. Pravus has been our ally for a long, long time. I'm not certain what changed. When I returned we greeted one another like old friends, but now she greets me like a lepered stranger. I could feel Valkieri's scowl on me -not sure what that was about, either, I thought we got along fairly well at the dinner. Lady Lianne was there! I enjoyed her company in our previous meetings, but she was quickly drowned by throngs of men that I had no interest in causing them to join Valkieri in scowling.
Calypso's method of a letter was better, in retrospect. She could not attend though I asked her, but it may have been fortuitous. The striking change in welcome causes doubt in the strength of our alliance, and my lack of sleep has not at all helped. Paranoid, I'm told, but I am well aware of these nobles that will stab me while smiling. I'm not concerned; the roles we play are vital. If I am to he cast as the wicked Duke, I will play my part perfectly. I may just have fun doing so.
This one was not. I had some earrings made, thought I was clever, Joboo and I arrived at their estate. Pravus has been our ally for a long, long time. I'm not certain what changed. When I returned we greeted one another like old friends, but now she greets me like a lepered stranger. I could feel Valkieri's scowl on me -not sure what that was about, either, I thought we got along fairly well at the dinner. Lady Lianne was there! I enjoyed her company in our previous meetings, but she was quickly drowned by throngs of men that I had no interest in causing them to join Valkieri in scowling.
Calypso's method of a letter was better, in retrospect. She could not attend though I asked her, but it may have been fortuitous. The striking change in welcome causes doubt in the strength of our alliance, and my lack of sleep has not at all helped. Paranoid, I'm told, but I am well aware of these nobles that will stab me while smiling. I'm not concerned; the roles we play are vital. If I am to he cast as the wicked Duke, I will play my part perfectly. I may just have fun doing so.
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 6, 2017, 2:50 p.m.(8/4/1005 AR)
What a theatrical showing that Assembly was! I almost regret having missed the ending; the headache I was sustaining could've only gotten worse through the bickering of the nobles and constant noise, and this lack of sleep is already maddening. Still, I do hope none were offended by my early departure. Calypso is more than capable of speaking for me amongst my peers and superiors.
Some key things: the Teind. Despite Esera's words at the Ducal Dinner, she called in support of the sacrifices, which was, as I love, surprising! I do not mind having to play the part of the cold duke, but we will see what the others are capable of. Duke Niccolo volunteered immediately thereafter, which nearly stole the show. I respect his call -I agree we must be willing to do what we ask of our people to do. It would've been just gaudy to volunteer after him though. It did not sway his daughter.
He was topped by a woman pretending to be Marquessa, who then was elevated to her station. Truly a thrill! And so bold of her to attempt such, I applaud it. But the real scene stealer was the Regent herself, Dawn. She abdicated her position, and declared she would be the first to the Teind with twelve others. Oh, that was magnificent. I cannot help but wonder if this means Niccolo is one of the other twelve, or if he is to remain among us?
On that note, the damned treaty. Thirteen sacrifices, but why thirteen? I was told because it is the number of gods, but why does it have to be the same? The thirteenth is said to he the father of demons, or I think Juliet told me that. The old Legate- Orazio's predecessor- and twelve others were used as thirteen blood sacrifices to a demon. This number does not seem to bode happy tidings. Perhaps I shall pray to the Thirteenth, because if all these demons and monsters are real, so too must be gods. But I do not suspect He'd answer.
War is coming. I know it. And Malvici, as always, will be ready to answer its call.
Some key things: the Teind. Despite Esera's words at the Ducal Dinner, she called in support of the sacrifices, which was, as I love, surprising! I do not mind having to play the part of the cold duke, but we will see what the others are capable of. Duke Niccolo volunteered immediately thereafter, which nearly stole the show. I respect his call -I agree we must be willing to do what we ask of our people to do. It would've been just gaudy to volunteer after him though. It did not sway his daughter.
He was topped by a woman pretending to be Marquessa, who then was elevated to her station. Truly a thrill! And so bold of her to attempt such, I applaud it. But the real scene stealer was the Regent herself, Dawn. She abdicated her position, and declared she would be the first to the Teind with twelve others. Oh, that was magnificent. I cannot help but wonder if this means Niccolo is one of the other twelve, or if he is to remain among us?
On that note, the damned treaty. Thirteen sacrifices, but why thirteen? I was told because it is the number of gods, but why does it have to be the same? The thirteenth is said to he the father of demons, or I think Juliet told me that. The old Legate- Orazio's predecessor- and twelve others were used as thirteen blood sacrifices to a demon. This number does not seem to bode happy tidings. Perhaps I shall pray to the Thirteenth, because if all these demons and monsters are real, so too must be gods. But I do not suspect He'd answer.
War is coming. I know it. And Malvici, as always, will be ready to answer its call.
Written By Hadrian
Dec. 25, 2016, 10:24 p.m.(6/25/1005 AR)
Joboo is my new monkey.
Written By Hadrian
Dec. 25, 2016, 10:06 p.m.(6/25/1005 AR)
I confessed some sort of attraction- no, utter feelings for the longest time to Kima. I've always adored her, since childhood. But we both know, her as Baroness of Saik, myself Duke, that we could never be together. It hurts, but such are the cards we are dealt in life.
I think she knew before I even told her, or perhaps she is better at pretending than I thought. So I remain a 'bachelor', but marriage and relationships are not on the forefront of my mind. Especially in these dark times, where demons are found real, elves want war, and I've only just returned to the ward. Yet it's interesting; all these outside threats, and the game of politics is still the same.
Game on.
I think she knew before I even told her, or perhaps she is better at pretending than I thought. So I remain a 'bachelor', but marriage and relationships are not on the forefront of my mind. Especially in these dark times, where demons are found real, elves want war, and I've only just returned to the ward. Yet it's interesting; all these outside threats, and the game of politics is still the same.
Game on.
Written By Hadrian
Nov. 27, 2016, 11:40 p.m.(3/25/1005 AR)
Mangata favored my voyage back to Arx, for I arrived in time for a private dinner at the Velenosa estate for Lyceum heads of house and Voices.
I do so love surprising people. Even my people. This time, though, it was fully justified. Honest! No messenger could have made it there faster than I did.
And what an evening! I would tell you, dear imaginary reader, but it was private. Sub rosa. A chance to speak freely. On a scale from Abandoned to Templar, that trust ranks as _sacred_.
I do so love surprising people. Even my people. This time, though, it was fully justified. Honest! No messenger could have made it there faster than I did.
And what an evening! I would tell you, dear imaginary reader, but it was private. Sub rosa. A chance to speak freely. On a scale from Abandoned to Templar, that trust ranks as _sacred_.
Written By Hadrian
July 24, 2016, 10:37 p.m.(2/12/1004 AR)
When you are seated at a desk reviewing and annotating reports, reading missives from home, staying informed, and writing orders, it is all too easy to integrate life into your desk routine instead of breaking from the desk to enjoy life.
Take the steady stream of messengers that make life in Arx possible. They come and go, bearing words on paper or words aloud. Read, reply, return to work. A nobleman capable of exclusive focus can let the whole day pass by - food comes to you, of course, and drink when you need it.
This is why it's necessary to have servants you trust enough to interrupt you and remind you gently that you need to go outside.
Take the steady stream of messengers that make life in Arx possible. They come and go, bearing words on paper or words aloud. Read, reply, return to work. A nobleman capable of exclusive focus can let the whole day pass by - food comes to you, of course, and drink when you need it.
This is why it's necessary to have servants you trust enough to interrupt you and remind you gently that you need to go outside.
Written By Hadrian
July 16, 2016, 3:08 p.m.(1/15/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Calypso
My sister's dry wit, morbid sense of humor, and no-nonsense manner are impossible to miss if you are in her presence for any length of time. The same qualities that win respect from our soldiers can, at their best, be a reminder of the force that backs Southport's interests.
The pointed discussion of assassination at the Celebration of Arts wasn't diplomatic. It can be amusing to see people squirm, but achieving the objective is more important than fun at the expense of our peers.
But is it good that everyone be reminded from time to time that whatever threats they think to make, Calypso is already having fun preparing contingencies against?
Yes.
I need to bring her to more gatherings that look like they will require more spice.
The pointed discussion of assassination at the Celebration of Arts wasn't diplomatic. It can be amusing to see people squirm, but achieving the objective is more important than fun at the expense of our peers.
But is it good that everyone be reminded from time to time that whatever threats they think to make, Calypso is already having fun preparing contingencies against?
Yes.
I need to bring her to more gatherings that look like they will require more spice.
Written By Hadrian
July 16, 2016, 4:21 a.m.(1/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Gareth
What can I say about Prince Gareth Grayson? An Inquisitor whose family is always foremost in his thoughts. A man whose obvious scars may be matched by ones within. I doubt I'll ever know. When he looks at you, it feels like a man trying to identify a tool. The Inquisition's work must be as terrible as rumors say to strip the habit of humanity. He is difficult to read, so perhaps I romanticize it disproportionately.
Written By Hadrian
July 16, 2016, 3:50 a.m.(1/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Bliss
Champion Bliss Whisper.
Charming, graceful, agile, and a scrapper. Be still, my heart.
Her dance was the highlight of my Celebration of Arts, though more may remember her from Lady Calista Fidante's Tournament of Roses. Her performance in the melee was nothing short of impressive.
Don't keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. From her manner at the Tournament, I suspect she can be quite saucy. That she is quite proper otherwise shows respectable self-control.
If I did not have Lady Kima, I would certainly have her champion my honor sometime. I wonder if I can contrive an occasion for her to accompany me, perform for me, and fight for me all on the same day? It's exhausting to imagine. Is her endurance up to the task?
Charming, graceful, agile, and a scrapper. Be still, my heart.
Her dance was the highlight of my Celebration of Arts, though more may remember her from Lady Calista Fidante's Tournament of Roses. Her performance in the melee was nothing short of impressive.
Don't keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. From her manner at the Tournament, I suspect she can be quite saucy. That she is quite proper otherwise shows respectable self-control.
If I did not have Lady Kima, I would certainly have her champion my honor sometime. I wonder if I can contrive an occasion for her to accompany me, perform for me, and fight for me all on the same day? It's exhausting to imagine. Is her endurance up to the task?
Written By Hadrian
July 16, 2016, 12:54 a.m.(1/13/1004 AR)
The Gala was everything I expected and a few things I didn't. Flowers, wine, dancing, respect for the deceased - expected. There were several statements with implications I found surprising, and some that were surprising in themselves.
Most of all, though, I believe Duke Niccolo surprised everyone with his announcement of a tournament. I was listening very closely, however, and I don't think he said what people are taking him to mean.
He said that anyone who wished to marry Grand Duchess Esera must be willing to spill his blood for her. He said that he would not give even a moment's consideration to any would-be suitor who did not risk himself in his tournament.
Allow me to be direct at the risk of sounding gauche, gentle reader: he did _not_ promise or imply an offer of Esera Velenosa's hand in marriage to the winner of the tournament. Consider that for a moment.
Was that his intention, if not his words? I don't think so. It sounds as though he wants to recreate the partnership he shared with Duchess Carlotta Velenosa - and maybe he does. Any good man would wish the best for his daughter. It will certainly give proof to a suitor's dedication.
If it works out, it will be, as Princess Ophelia said, "so-o-o romantic." I hope it turns out as he hopes.
Most of all, though, I believe Duke Niccolo surprised everyone with his announcement of a tournament. I was listening very closely, however, and I don't think he said what people are taking him to mean.
He said that anyone who wished to marry Grand Duchess Esera must be willing to spill his blood for her. He said that he would not give even a moment's consideration to any would-be suitor who did not risk himself in his tournament.
Allow me to be direct at the risk of sounding gauche, gentle reader: he did _not_ promise or imply an offer of Esera Velenosa's hand in marriage to the winner of the tournament. Consider that for a moment.
Was that his intention, if not his words? I don't think so. It sounds as though he wants to recreate the partnership he shared with Duchess Carlotta Velenosa - and maybe he does. Any good man would wish the best for his daughter. It will certainly give proof to a suitor's dedication.
If it works out, it will be, as Princess Ophelia said, "so-o-o romantic." I hope it turns out as he hopes.
Written By Hadrian
July 12, 2016, 3:07 a.m.(1/2/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Fiora
Cousin Fiora arrived in town. I admit to being surprised she came, but family is never unwelcome. I can think of a few reluctantly political and politically reluctant lords and ladies she would likely enjoy.
With her arrival and Calypso's, 'family dinner' might become a thing. By family, I mean whoever gathers in my suite. And by dinner, I mean wine.
With her arrival and Calypso's, 'family dinner' might become a thing. By family, I mean whoever gathers in my suite. And by dinner, I mean wine.
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