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Written By Sabella

May 28, 2023, 9:52 p.m.(11/22/1019 AR)

Congratulations again to Marquessa Cassiopeia and her new husband and Marquis-Consort, Nazmir. I had the privilege of traveling to Tremerous to take part in the after party. It was lovely! Even though I don't know the pair quite well you could very much see how in love they are with each other and that is a beautiful thing to witness.

It reminded me of Niklas and myself. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. Right now, I've a bundle of his plays in my lap and as I reread over them, the pain that was brought when I learned of his passing will haunt me forever, but the memories we shared will also, forever sit with me and triumph over the bad. I am a better person in knowing him and being able to look back on those cherished memories means so much.

Our loved ones that are no longer with us will never truly be gone, instead they reside in our hearts. The friendships, and relationships we make should be something we all take time to invest in. To kindle the love of family, friends, wives and husbands, because when the going gets tough it's those moments you make with them that will stay with you forever.

Written By Sabella

May 26, 2023, 8:22 a.m.(11/17/1019 AR)

Relationship Note on Titus

Your story of the Rainbow Serpent was inspiring, and perhaps something I didn't know I needed to hear.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in what would've been, what we could have done different, that we forget that these past things are stepping stones for something greater in our future. That we shouldn't dwell on them too much and naught that we can't keep them in our hearts. Rather inspiration to be a better person, definitely.

To flow like a river, ever changing.

Written By Sabella

March 30, 2022, 4:32 p.m.(5/16/1017 AR)

Relationship Note on Thea

The wonderful Countess Thea has agreed to be my teacher in the ways of learning medicine. After some thoughtful consideration I thought that I should best spend my time learning something new in order to help others.

By no means do I think it will be easy. I'm not really steady with hands when it comes to poking someone with a needle. Do forgive me ahead of time. However, I think this will be a good lesson and experience, so as long as I don't commit to be Thea's partner in crime when it comes to troublemaking. It does sound fun though.

Written By Sabella

Jan. 25, 2022, 5:44 p.m.(1/1/1017 AR)

*There seems to be several spots on the pages where alcohol was spilt. Perhaps a little too much. The words are also sloppily written.*

Cherish what you have before it's taken from you. Hug your loved ones and tell them how much they mean to you. Never know if it's gonna be your last......

Written By Sabella

Jan. 20, 2022, 7:02 p.m.(12/19/1016 AR)

I've been away for far too long seeing to other matters of course. Still no word from Niklas or where he's at after we fled Bastion before everything happened. However, I'm ever hopeful he'll return. Now, I just have to keep myself busy and entertained. Now where did I put that recent play I've written up.

Written By Sabella

May 3, 2021, 1:08 a.m.(5/26/1015 AR)

It never feels nice to be told you have done something wrong and hurtful when your intentions had been to do something good and helpful. However, this is not the first time such a thing has happened to me, and while I made strides to right one such instance, I found myself embroiled in another. Graysons are raised with the best of tutors, access to extensive stores of knowledge, all the tools and advantages silver and station can grant. Yet, we are still humans. We are each different and contribute in various ways. One need only look at me and my two sisters to see that! I am nothing like either of them. Lou has been places, seen things that most would fail to imagine. Reese may be the most accomplished wielder of a sword of our time. Both went off to war in their capacities to do so while I sat in a shrine and prayed. Not to discount the importance of prayer, never, I know firsthand how powerful a prayer can be! We each have our place. And our failings.

One of mine seems to be not looking past the tip of my nose. The charitable deeds I have done, the gifts I have given, the investments made, were all done with a heart set on seeing others uplifted. My dreams, implausible as they may be, are to end poverty and unite Arvum. Perhaps those dreams are foolish, but they have been the aim of my actions. I see things that must be righted, and I set what talents and resources available to me to doing that. I have never wished to attach strings to what I have done. But I have heard the criticism. I have seen the journals accusing me of wielding my gifts like a cudgel, describing the virtue of charity done without recognition. And I understand them. I do. No explanation I offer will excuse or justify the way I reacted and the subsequent white I stormed into the Archive to write.

I have written to Most Holy Aureth to offer my apology personally, and I offer another here to the people of the Compact, the people I yearn to represent properly as the People's Princess a title I hope to live up to. And I ask forgiveness from any I hurt with my actions.

Written By Sabella

May 2, 2021, 10:50 p.m.(5/25/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Apollo

Though he has only been my protege a short while, I have known Lord Apollo Darkwater for a long time. He has had a few names since I met him: Apollo Oakwood, Apollo Whisper, Lord Apollo Darkwater being the newest. Each of those names have suited when he had them, conveying who he was at the time. Through our growing closeness these last few months, I have learned that before he was Apollo Oakwood, he had yet another name - one given by his parents before he became an orphan. As a ward raised among the Keatons and Laurents, he may not have had all the trappings of a noble upbringing afforded to him, but he was eventually considered family by many. As I understand it, he was so loved by the late Marquessa Sunniva Harthall that her daughter's middle name is an homage to him. That is a mark of honor. That Apollo Whisper was recognized by Countess Carita Darkwater as deserving of elevation is a boon to the Compact, a strengthening of her house, and an admitted loss to those who sought out his leatherworking talents. May this change be blessed, this oath be honored, and this choice lead to greatness.

Written By Sabella

April 19, 2021, 3:12 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)

For those who might care, or simply wish to have fodder for the gossip mill, I write this journal as a FORMER disciple of Jayus and one who worked tirelessly to help make that discipleship stand. I write this journal as one who has done fundraising to rebuild the cathedral I watched burn, that I prayed for rain to save and rain came. I write this journal as someone who has donated a total of two million silver to the Knights of Solace, and over a million silver each to the Disciples of Jayus and to the Faith directly.

I wrote a letter to Dominus Aureth expressing my concern as a disciple about the dismissal of Brigida from the position of Archlector and the provenance of the funds being used to smooth over any dishonor to Princess-Consort Alarissa and house Thrax. My concerns were summarily dismissed, informing me that my advocacy for Brigida is kind but comes without understanding. Yes! That is an understanding I was hoping to gain through my inquiry! Further, I was advised to turn my attention to my own house, "rather than making assumptions about matters entirely internal to the Faith." I realize that as a noble disciple, I did not hold the same bearing as a Godsworn member of the Faith, however, I had thought that my inquiry might be answered.

I will take the dominus' thoughtful suggestion, as I informed him, and focus upon my house and my people. I will turn my efforts toward the Crownlands and support the Crafter's Guild as I continue to honor Jayus and the Pantheon. As the dominus further elaborated, I was free to consider myself excused from my duty as a disciple - and so I have taken my leave.

Dearest members of the Compact, I suddenly find myself with more time on my hands, with more ability to help others. Do let me know if I can support your goals.

Written By Sabella

March 27, 2021, 1:31 a.m.(3/8/1015 AR)

I cannot remember a time when Niklas and I spent so long apart since we married. I am certain there may have been, but I likely have blocked it out. Or it went by with haste because the children were smaller and needed me more. My husband has been in Bastion for about a month and a half. The children miss him. I miss him. I do not share this seeking pity, dear reader, whomever you may be.

It is a simple matter of fact. I have mostly kept to myself these weeks, yet the last few days appear to have opened something up within me. I have accepted more impromptu invitations, taken more meetings, allowed myself to indulge in fun - even silly! - things. And while I will continue to do all I can for the people of the Crownlands, I took important steps tonight toward understanding something just for me.

Reader, I have allowed myself to go out and breathe the air, to play in the snow and compete in games I could never win (congratulations, Noah!), and to experience the joy of other people's company. I never thought I relied on Niklas so much until I noticed how his absence dimmed my shine. Rather, how I let it. But I have been glowing these past few days, and I have no intention of stopping.

I do still wish Niklas would come back, though. Storytime for the children is less enjoyable without his help doing voices and pantomimes.

Written By Sabella

March 26, 2021, 3:55 a.m.(3/6/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Apollo

I have been blessed in the months since I returned from Bastion with several people being willing to give me a fresh start, to sit and speak with me so that we might find common ground to work from. I cannot express how truly grateful I am to have one among them be Apollo Whisper. His compassion, conversation, and creativity have all resulted in benefits that I hope I deserve.

The choice to enter into a patronage relationship is one that must be considered carefully, yet I admit that had I not been so surprised by the idea of being his patron that I would have squealed with joy as I said "Yes!" It is humbling and inspiring to have him under my patronage. I can imagine that we will do inspired things together.

Written By Sabella

March 26, 2021, 3:43 a.m.(3/6/1015 AR)

If one has not taken the opportunity to spend an evening in the company of Marquis Cirroch, it is an error that should be corrected promptly! On my way home from the bank, I came across him and his sister, Lady Tila, having a grand time in the snow with Prince Baldessare and Lady Kalani. Lady Zoey was passing through just after me, so I encouraged her to join me in joining them (at their invitation).

It is far simpler to toss a snowball at Relara or Gareth than it is to toss a snowball at an adult. I did not expect that to be so, yet I do not think I managed to connect with a single person. The children and I have not spent as much time out enjoying the winter as we might usually, with Niklas away. He brightens everything! I hope no one tells my little darlings I played without them, they may never forgive me! Oh, but I did have fun, thanks to having such excellent company. What a fond memory I get to keep!

Written By Sabella

March 14, 2021, 11:25 a.m.(2/11/1015 AR)

I have not taken the time to commit anything to the whites as of late, though it is not for lack of things to commit. I have been busily welcoming cousins and other Crownlanders to the city, helping them get settled and ensuring they have connections. My work with the Grayson vassals to assist with war preparations has also required a significant amount of my attention - and even more significant investments. And now, having been pulled in by my courageous elder sister to face a formidable challenge? I am relieved the children have nannies so I might devote my attention to Lou's aims. This means I get to know Princess Natasha better, which is a lovely addition. She is such an intelligent, thoughtful, steady presence. I am reassured by having her on our side to assist with research and counsel. I will need to continue to work hard within the Crownlands, and the Compact as a whole.

All of this work is not without some moments to enjoy the the social scene of the city, however. I had the distinct pleasure of attending the welcome party for Lady Tila Sanna, who was wonderful to meet. There were so many notable individuals at the event, I know I didn't get the chance to say hello to everyone I should have. I hope to have the opportunity to speak with Lady Sanna in a less distracting environment soon, the little I did get to see of her made it apparent that she deserves more of my attention. Marquis Cirroch was a fantastic host, and I am grateful for his invitation. It was a shame cousin Sasha could not be there.

Niklas was unable to attend, as well. He has been out of the city for the past fortnight, working on a new play as I understand it. We, the children and I, miss him. And winter is fully settled upon the land. His travel back to the city is likely to be delayed longer.

Written By Sabella

Jan. 4, 2021, 9:41 p.m.(9/11/1014 AR)

This evening Niklas and I went to the Kismet Carnival, and I won the card game! The trophy stein is simply gorgeous in its purple and silver splendor. I have happily added it to the display case as a reminder of the fun and joy of the evening. Everyone there seemed to be having the best time, so much good cheer! Venturo Thayne is a brilliant man. He and his patron, Marquessa Lianne, and his protege, Sloane Starling, pulled together an event that will surely be looked forward to next year.

Written By Sabella

Jan. 1, 2021, 8:25 p.m.(9/5/1014 AR)

Honestly, who ruins a perfectly good brownie by putting walnuts in it? It is very disappointing to get excited for something, only to have that something be a walnut brownie.

This is a metaphor, dearlings, but also please keep the walnuts out of the brownies.

Written By Sabella

Jan. 1, 2021, 11:13 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)

The children and Niklas and I have returned from our unexpected trip to Bastion. While there, I took the opportunity to do some quiet reflection and prayer. I have been called the People's Princess - I intend to live up to that.

Though it has only been a few short days since getting back to the city, things have already been a whirlwind of excitement! Niklas and I found ourselves the center of an unexpected 'family reunion' at Lottie's with Elizabetha, Wash, Catalana, and Cecilia (with a few others mingling). Niklas and I are planning a ball! Inspiration strikes when you least expect it. And the children were feeling a bit fussy and lonely, so I arranged for the three Ashford children to visit overnight. I am thinking it would be good to arrange regular activities for the children so they can stay active and build relationships early - like I was able to with the Bislands.

Written By Sabella

Dec. 20, 2020, 8:53 p.m.(8/9/1014 AR)

I auditioned for a new play this week! It was the first time I've auditioned in a long time so it wasn't my best effort but I was pleased with the results! The Nightingale and several other princesses were there so now I suppose we wait with baited breath for the messengers to arrive--hopefully with good news!

Written By Sabella

Dec. 20, 2020, 8:52 p.m.(8/9/1014 AR)

There are so many new people in the city these days it seems I hope that they are all able to find the happiness and fulfillment they seem to be looking for!

Written By Sabella

Dec. 14, 2020, 12:18 p.m.(7/24/1014 AR)

The list in my last journal was accidentally cut off! So my utmost thanks to Princess Jaenelle, Lady Mabelle, and Baroness Lucita as well! Their donations were most welcome at the auction!

Written By Sabella

Dec. 13, 2020, 9:23 p.m.(7/23/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Niklas

I am yours, forever.

Written By Sabella

Dec. 13, 2020, 9:22 p.m.(7/23/1014 AR)

I am so incredibly thrilled with how much we were able to raise at our fundraiser! Lord Jyri Whitehawk was a wonderful co-host and I must thank everyone who donated and everyone who bid on the items that were put up for auction! I am still so touched by the outpouring of support whether it was through donations or bids or kind words or even angry ones that they were not able to score the object that was coveted! I saw bits and pieces from people that i had no idea had such talents! Or did you know that Saiklands produces glass? I did not until just a few days before the auction!

But let me thank by name those who made donations and should I forget one please let me know!

Princess Gwenna, Lady Esme, Princess Damiana, Master Orick, Lady Brianna, Prince Niklas, Marquessa Reigna, Mistress Tanith, Lord Jyri, Princess Graziella, Lady Eirene, Lord Haakon, and Marquis Dio!

And to all who bid and lost or bid and won, thank you thank you! All the funds have been turned over to Sir Porter!

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