You're where the Wild Things are...

An in-character blog set in the universe of EVE Online. These are the private diary entries of Lady Ekaterina Mariya deSilvestris, a minor Amarrian Noble and Capsuleer. Other existing characters within EVE will be referred to throughout, though any opinions and views expressed are those of this character. These entries may touch on or directly address mature themes such as violence, sexuality, race and ethnicity, and mental health. As noted, any views are those of the character.

Before we begin, I feel it important to say a few words on the subject of mental health. Ekaterina, or Ekat as many call her, is something of a troubled soul. This aspect of her character is a personal choice I have made, for very personal reasons. Although EVE is a game in which the players can immerse themselves to a greater or lesser degree as they wish, mental health is a very real issue for many people. Those two simple words cover a myriad different issues and concerns that affect people directly or indirectly every day all, over the world.

If you find yourself affected by any issues touched upon in these posts, or if you face your own troubles, please know that there are people out there you can turn to; doctors, friends, family - there is ALWAYS someone. If you are an EVE player, then Broadcast 4 Reps chat is available, staffed by wonderfully kind and good-hearted volunteers. If you know of someone who has mental health issues, then please just let them know you are there. It doesn't have to be anything big, just a smile, a cup of tea, a quick phone call about last night's game - just a little thing to show they aren't forgotten.

You Never Fly Alone.
31-05-YC122

As much as it pains me to admit it, I realise I rather owe Arrendis an apology.  My insult to her was, on reflection, not only unwarranted, but it was entirely unbecoming of someone of my social position.  I suppose the anxiety I feel at the close proximity of Triglavian activity to Nakri, and the unpleasant revelation that there are certain parties who feel that they should be appeased by being given control of an Imperial solar system got the better of my judgement.  As much as I dislike Arrendis and as much as she has been on the opposing side countless times, in this particular instance she is an ally, albeit an uncomfortable one.  She, like many others who are not Imperial subjects, has put aside any personal feelings she may have toward the Empire and has acted in its defence.  I should, in all honesty, respect and be grateful for that.  Therefore, when next I connect to The Summit - and I still utterly detest that forum - should she be there, I shall offer my apologies.  It makes little difference whether or not accepts or acknowledges such a gesture, the point is that it is the correct and proper thing to do.

Aldrith is formulating a doctrine that we may take our own actions against this alien enemy.  The difficulties facing us are significant, but with intelligence and Faith, we shall overcome, as Amarr has always overcome.  God is on our side, and The Eternal Empress shall never allow Her children to come to lasting harm.  Of that I have the utmost conviction.
30-05-YC122

I have received a gift from Nauplius.  A little soft toy of something called a Yak.  Such a strange looking thing.  I wonder if it is a real creature.  They are symbols of Khanid culture, apparently, and in his note Nauplius spoke of his efforts to bring such to Ammatar. I think perhaps Nauplius worries too much over the loyalty of the Mandate, blinded as he is by his hatred of anything even remotely Tribal.  Still, the gift is very sweet, and, although he has few friends in the Empire, I personally do not doubt Nauplius' devotion and integrity to the Throne as I do with others who are all too ready to denounce him.

It has not been an easy few days.  The Triglavians have invaded Raravoss in force, though there have been many who have stood against them.  Sadly, however, there seem to be just as many who would willingly sacrifice an Imperial system and the subjects of Her Imperial Majesty within it just to try to appease the vermin.  Raravoss is but two jumps away from home, and the tension here is palpable.  Poor Mama is worrying constantly, though she never shows it outwardly.  Papa has been tied up in endless briefings and meetings regarding the defence effort and Imperial collaboration with EDENCOM.  I think Sasha and his unit may very well be seconded to this particular front, and Kolya is already on active duty there.  I pray God and The Eternal Empress keep them safe, grant them Victory, and return them to us unharmed.

The war in Floseswin is progressing much more positively.  Although the ground conflict has seen little change in weeks now, our forces are, by the Grace of God, securing other systems in the Eugidi Constellation.  At least this we can give thanks for.

I know, however, that I am failing in my duty.  I pray for forgiveness for my weaknesses and failings.  I lose direction so easily. I must push myself harder, and I cannot give in to selfishness when so many people are giving everything they can, and more, in the defence of our Motherland.

I must do better, and I shall.
18-05-YC122

Yebatj!

I may as well simply hand over my ships to the enemy for them to destroy at their leisure.  I knew I would lose the Tormentor, of course, but to do so so easily!  So frustrating.  A lack of concentration, a distraction.  I suspect I know all to well the cause, that foolish mail from Commander Adams asking to meet me in Kor-Azor.  Then again, I suppose it could be that Constantin has been on my mind a lot recently.  Regardless, it is unacceptable.  My maintenance crew joked about the curse of a new SKIN, and they were correct as usual.  I wonder, then, if there knowledge would lead to something that can give me more of an edge in combat situations, something that will help me focus when I am in the warzone.  If I can block out anything but the most relevant thoughts then surely that would give me more chance of being in the fight for longer.  I shall have to ask.

I am, however, pleased that Riccoda did not fall to the enemy as well.  Whoever that bitch was, she tore through me so quickly that I do not think Riccoda's Tormentor would have survived much longer, but perhaps her focusing on me gave him a chance to damage her.  Riccoda said she withdrew after destroying my ship, but I was too busy navigating my pod away to take notice.  I made my way back to Mehatoor, docked, and went down to the club.  At least I won that fight.  I must admit, there is something about the bruises and aches in the morning after that does help me concentrate, that clears my mind.  Not that the Esfand when I got back to my quarters did anything to help.  I had the strangest visions as I slept.  Hundreds and hundreds of spiders in tightly-woven nets.  I wonder what deep and convoluted meaning that has.

I think I shall agree to meet with Edward.  I am curious as to what he wants.  More than likely more of his silly flirtatious games.  At least he is entertaining.
13-05-YC122

I really must try to set aside more time to keep this diary, but my many and varied duties seem relentless, and as one cycle ends so another begins. At least I have been able to speak with Sasha about the next stage of Operation Cylinder.  His team's successful return to Floseswin, albeit with Ishta's minor case of radiation poisoning, uncovered the second Blackguard device.  Once the third is located we should have all the intelligence we need to move forward.

Of course, I could not very well have Sasha come here to Mehatoor without insisting he see Ishta.  I did not, however, expect them to go to Gottin's Lamp, LUMEN's establishment.  Quite the privilege for Sasha considering he is not directly affiliated with any of LUMEN's allies.  Unless they count the military forces of the Sarum Family as allies and I am still not completely sure if they do.

Sasha even met the Directrix, and says he found her very pleasant and friendly, as well he might!  I must admit I do not fully trust LUMEN or their agenda, not with recent events, but I cannot hold that personally against the Directrix.  She must have a lot of strength and willpower to be able to lead and exercise any degree of control over a group such as LUMEN, with all their differing outlooks and opinions.  They are not like PIE, for we have a unity of purpose and calling that gives us our strength.  Notwithstanding the apparent loss of direction and questionable entanglements with the enemy that some have exhibited recently, of course.  To think I once thought so highly of Palad Lady Elkin.

Unfortunately, my brother was not entirely the ambassador I would have hoped for my family.  Winking at the Directrix!  What was he thinking?  Far too relaxed in Ishta's company, I have no doubt.  I shall have to apologise to the Directrix for his behaviour.  As much as I love dear Sasha, he does forget himself sometimes.  That sort of thing I expect from Felix, of course, with his flippant attitude toward everything.  At least I can trust dear sweet Kolya to set a good example.

I shall also have to find time to sit my Paladin Examination soon.  It is far too overdue and I cannot delay it any longer.  I shall have been the longest serving Aspirant in PIE's history!  I must simply overcome my nerves and trust in the Divine Guidance of The Eternal Empress.  It shall be as She Wills it.