29-03-YC121
It appears Liana has the most extraordinary news, which I must admit I had never expected to hear. She has, for the time being, sworn me to the utmost secrecy, and I cannot say I blame her; after all, such news will undoubtedly change her life! I am happy for her, I truly am, and honoured by the responsible future role she has offered me - which I shall give serious consideration to - but I cannot but help feel the faintest twinge of jealousy. Weak of me, I know, but for such a momentous event to happen to one so young and inexperienced, whereas others, far more prepared and, dare I say it, suited to the role, still await to be so blessed.
Ah, but I do not begrudge dear, sweet Liana, and I am sure my time will come soon enough, perhaps sooner than I expect, now that I have found Constantin and our Love grows stronger by the day.
I will think on Liana's kind proposal, though before I give an answer, there are certain other commitments and positions I must consider.
28-03-YC121
I write this sat in my room again, back in Nakri. It is so strange to be here without Constantin. That the rest of the house is so quiet still, with only Mama and Felix and the staff here, makes it seem even emptier. I walked into my room and saw on my dressing-table one of the roses Constantin sent me, and was overcome with such an overwhelming sense of emptiness that I cried for almost an hour. I will rein in my emotions before returning to duty, of course, but it is better I let my feelings out, in private, first, that I may then focus on what is required of me.
He was making breakfast when I awoke this morning, and brought it through for me in bed. How sweet. No-one has ever done such a thing before, it was quite novel, if a little strange. We then talked of many things, but mostly about seeing one another again, before making love one last time. He is so tender and gentle, considerate, yet passionate. I close my eyes even now and I can feel him, his kisses on my body, his strong arms holding me as close as possible, the muscles of his body moving under my legs wrapped around him, until... oh, but that sweet moment!
I must push such thought to the back of my mind, save them for when I am off-duty, and have time to myself. My focus now must be on our continued efforts against the multitude of enemies that stand against us. As Constantin tends so diligently to his duties, as I must to mine. I had hoped to be deployed to Aridia, but, alas, it would appear there is unlikely to be any more action there. That is fortunate for those people still left there, and no doubt our foes will rear there heads elsewhere, and we must be ready.
I have also neglected my exercises - or at least my usual ones - and must return to that routine. I shall make sure I visit the gym hall before leaving for Mehatoor. It shall help me focus also, for I must be prepared physically and mentally. I have so much more to fight for and defend now. So much more.
I write this sat in my room again, back in Nakri. It is so strange to be here without Constantin. That the rest of the house is so quiet still, with only Mama and Felix and the staff here, makes it seem even emptier. I walked into my room and saw on my dressing-table one of the roses Constantin sent me, and was overcome with such an overwhelming sense of emptiness that I cried for almost an hour. I will rein in my emotions before returning to duty, of course, but it is better I let my feelings out, in private, first, that I may then focus on what is required of me.
He was making breakfast when I awoke this morning, and brought it through for me in bed. How sweet. No-one has ever done such a thing before, it was quite novel, if a little strange. We then talked of many things, but mostly about seeing one another again, before making love one last time. He is so tender and gentle, considerate, yet passionate. I close my eyes even now and I can feel him, his kisses on my body, his strong arms holding me as close as possible, the muscles of his body moving under my legs wrapped around him, until... oh, but that sweet moment!
I must push such thought to the back of my mind, save them for when I am off-duty, and have time to myself. My focus now must be on our continued efforts against the multitude of enemies that stand against us. As Constantin tends so diligently to his duties, as I must to mine. I had hoped to be deployed to Aridia, but, alas, it would appear there is unlikely to be any more action there. That is fortunate for those people still left there, and no doubt our foes will rear there heads elsewhere, and we must be ready.
I have also neglected my exercises - or at least my usual ones - and must return to that routine. I shall make sure I visit the gym hall before leaving for Mehatoor. It shall help me focus also, for I must be prepared physically and mentally. I have so much more to fight for and defend now. So much more.
27-03-YC121
Oh, how I shall miss the little ones when my shore leave ends. Can it really be so soon as tomorrow that I must return? I have spent most of today around the medical facility, talking with the survivors and refugees, singing songs and telling stories to the children, and assisting the medical staff where I am able. Constantin has been very busy in his work, and whilst it is always wonderful to be with him, I must not distract him, as he has so much to do.
The old apartment we have has begun to hold a little domestic atmosphere again. It is sweet, and there is something about it that calls to me. I think it calls to Constantin also. Who knows? Perhaps it is a sign of things to come in the future. I hope we shall not be parted too soon. Our duties must come first, of course, but I know we shall miss one another terribly. How I pray that God shall cause our duties to come together so that we may not be apart quite so much. Yet I must be thankful for what I do have, and I am so very thankful indeed.
I cannot sit writing all evening, at least not for myself. I have promise to write letters for some of the people here, that they may send word to loved ones. It is so pleasant to be of use, to bring some joy to people. I will also spend some more time with the children. I barely have the heart to tell them I must leave again, and I know there shall be tears, no doubt not only from the children. So, I shall try and make the parting a little less painful and have some songs and games with them. Is it selfish to hope that Constantin may catch a glimpse, and perhaps think to himself that I may, in time, make a worthy mother? It is selfish, and so weak of me, and yet I cannot help this thought that comes unbidden into my mind. At least it is much brighter than most unbidden thoughts I have.
Oh, how I shall miss the little ones when my shore leave ends. Can it really be so soon as tomorrow that I must return? I have spent most of today around the medical facility, talking with the survivors and refugees, singing songs and telling stories to the children, and assisting the medical staff where I am able. Constantin has been very busy in his work, and whilst it is always wonderful to be with him, I must not distract him, as he has so much to do.
The old apartment we have has begun to hold a little domestic atmosphere again. It is sweet, and there is something about it that calls to me. I think it calls to Constantin also. Who knows? Perhaps it is a sign of things to come in the future. I hope we shall not be parted too soon. Our duties must come first, of course, but I know we shall miss one another terribly. How I pray that God shall cause our duties to come together so that we may not be apart quite so much. Yet I must be thankful for what I do have, and I am so very thankful indeed.
I cannot sit writing all evening, at least not for myself. I have promise to write letters for some of the people here, that they may send word to loved ones. It is so pleasant to be of use, to bring some joy to people. I will also spend some more time with the children. I barely have the heart to tell them I must leave again, and I know there shall be tears, no doubt not only from the children. So, I shall try and make the parting a little less painful and have some songs and games with them. Is it selfish to hope that Constantin may catch a glimpse, and perhaps think to himself that I may, in time, make a worthy mother? It is selfish, and so weak of me, and yet I cannot help this thought that comes unbidden into my mind. At least it is much brighter than most unbidden thoughts I have.
26-03-YC121
We have managed to find an abandoned apartment to stay in whilst I am here. I hope that the people who actually live here do not mind. I shall write a note to thank them that they shall find when they return, and explain to them that Archbishop Barraca stayed in their home to better fulfill his duties, and that, of course, their home and their possessions were respected. There was also a little food left behind, and I shall leave and ISK chip for them, as recompense.
Constantin is compiling his lists. There is still so much more to do, but I think my company makes the task a little easier. We spent the day together, and I assisted with as much as I could. I had already been up for some time when he awoke this morning, spending time with some of the patients in the facility, talking to them, singing little songs, writing or reading letters. The children in particular were a delight. The poor souls, they have seen far too much tragedy for ones so young, and yet they are so resilient and bright as they still play their games and try to carry on with some sense of normality. Many of them are now orphaned, and I worry what shall become of them. Constantin as spoken of an Order named the Sisters of the Hearth, who look after abandoned and lost children. He suggests even that I might consider joining them. I wonder what such a benevolent Order would make of me, a PIE pilot, trained for war. Speaking of PIE, I did not wear my uniform today, just a simple traditional dress and headscarf. I think this made it much easier for people to relate to me - they have seen enough of uniforms and insignia.
There was one little girl in particular, a sweet delicate thing, with the brightest eyes. She did not speak a word, but she listened to my stories and songs. Constantin found her, the only survivor of her family. She had pretend to be dead, but she must have seen the terrible end of her kith and kin, even her parents. I weep when I think what such a beautiful, innocent child has been through. Constantin says that her only remaining relative, an aunt, has been contacted, and is on her way to Anath. I am glad that she will have someone she knows to keeo her safe, and yet, I cannot quite shake the thought that, had it been possible, I would have liked for Constantin and I to adopt her. I wonder why the thought is so strong?
I also helped My Darling consecrate a cemetary. Such sombre work, but necessary. All I had to do was follow the chants and prayers of the rite, and I was glad to have that to focus on, to take my mind away from the thought that our work would soon be put to its intended use, and soon the bodies would being to be buried. At first it seemed quite a large area, but when I took my last look at it, it appear to me to be worringly small for the amount of departed that must soon fill the entire plot.
Tomorrow will be the last day of my shore-leave, and I have no doubt it shall be filled with more solemn tasks. I will do all I can to leave some light and joy behind me, for all those noble souls who are helping, all the innocents affected, and, of course, most importantly, for My Beloved Constantin.
For tonight, I shall let him work undisturbed, though I shall remain close lest he need me for anything, and before it is too late I will make sure he gets a restful sleep. There are a few things I should collect from the main area whilst he works. Strangely, I have not seen Aldrith today, yet. I do so hope he has given up on whatever caused him to be so interested in Constantin and I.
Later
I have just collected the items we needed, and met Miss Monakh. She mentioned something about Liana, but I did not quite follow what she meant, something about my having given her advice. Perhaps I will have time to talk to her about it another time. I also managed to continue to avoid Adrith, fortunately.
Constantin is still working, and if I do not stop him now, he will work until daylight. How fortunate for his constitution and health that he seems unable to resist my enticements to bed. I think we are both far too tired for anything other than sleep, of course!
We have managed to find an abandoned apartment to stay in whilst I am here. I hope that the people who actually live here do not mind. I shall write a note to thank them that they shall find when they return, and explain to them that Archbishop Barraca stayed in their home to better fulfill his duties, and that, of course, their home and their possessions were respected. There was also a little food left behind, and I shall leave and ISK chip for them, as recompense.
Constantin is compiling his lists. There is still so much more to do, but I think my company makes the task a little easier. We spent the day together, and I assisted with as much as I could. I had already been up for some time when he awoke this morning, spending time with some of the patients in the facility, talking to them, singing little songs, writing or reading letters. The children in particular were a delight. The poor souls, they have seen far too much tragedy for ones so young, and yet they are so resilient and bright as they still play their games and try to carry on with some sense of normality. Many of them are now orphaned, and I worry what shall become of them. Constantin as spoken of an Order named the Sisters of the Hearth, who look after abandoned and lost children. He suggests even that I might consider joining them. I wonder what such a benevolent Order would make of me, a PIE pilot, trained for war. Speaking of PIE, I did not wear my uniform today, just a simple traditional dress and headscarf. I think this made it much easier for people to relate to me - they have seen enough of uniforms and insignia.
There was one little girl in particular, a sweet delicate thing, with the brightest eyes. She did not speak a word, but she listened to my stories and songs. Constantin found her, the only survivor of her family. She had pretend to be dead, but she must have seen the terrible end of her kith and kin, even her parents. I weep when I think what such a beautiful, innocent child has been through. Constantin says that her only remaining relative, an aunt, has been contacted, and is on her way to Anath. I am glad that she will have someone she knows to keeo her safe, and yet, I cannot quite shake the thought that, had it been possible, I would have liked for Constantin and I to adopt her. I wonder why the thought is so strong?
I also helped My Darling consecrate a cemetary. Such sombre work, but necessary. All I had to do was follow the chants and prayers of the rite, and I was glad to have that to focus on, to take my mind away from the thought that our work would soon be put to its intended use, and soon the bodies would being to be buried. At first it seemed quite a large area, but when I took my last look at it, it appear to me to be worringly small for the amount of departed that must soon fill the entire plot.
Tomorrow will be the last day of my shore-leave, and I have no doubt it shall be filled with more solemn tasks. I will do all I can to leave some light and joy behind me, for all those noble souls who are helping, all the innocents affected, and, of course, most importantly, for My Beloved Constantin.
For tonight, I shall let him work undisturbed, though I shall remain close lest he need me for anything, and before it is too late I will make sure he gets a restful sleep. There are a few things I should collect from the main area whilst he works. Strangely, I have not seen Aldrith today, yet. I do so hope he has given up on whatever caused him to be so interested in Constantin and I.
Later
I have just collected the items we needed, and met Miss Monakh. She mentioned something about Liana, but I did not quite follow what she meant, something about my having given her advice. Perhaps I will have time to talk to her about it another time. I also managed to continue to avoid Adrith, fortunately.
Constantin is still working, and if I do not stop him now, he will work until daylight. How fortunate for his constitution and health that he seems unable to resist my enticements to bed. I think we are both far too tired for anything other than sleep, of course!
26-03-YC121
I write this by lamplight in a makeshift medical facility on Anath IV. My darling Constantin lies asleep beside me on a pallet of unused tents, though he is so tired I dare say even the ground would be comfortable.
I had no choice, I must confess. I followed my heart and came here without even trying to seek permission, for I knew I must see him again, I felt that he needed me; and so he did! When I arrived he was so focused on his tasks, compiling the lists of the deceased for The Book of Records, that he did not even notice when I called his name. He even walked away, and did not see me until he turned around and looked directly at me. Oh, I had hoped the sight of me would have lifted his heart, but my brave, noble Constantin broke and wept. He thought I was merely a dream, an apparition, and the fear that I was on the verge of disappearing was too much for him.
I held him as closely as I could, stroked his hair, and soothed him, did I all in my power to prove that I was no figment, but was there before him as real as I could be. Oh, My Darling, what trials have you put yourself through that you should be thus? As you have tended to others, so I shall tend to you.
Then Aldrith gave comment.
I did not even know he was on Anath IV, nor why he should be so! Yet there he was, with his entourage of bodyguards and the strangest smirk on his face, as though he were checking on Constantin and I. I see him now, drifting - no, drifting is not the correct word - stalking, like a predator, through the room, glancing from time to time at the two of us. I cannot fathom his thoughts, and I am sure he must have some reason to be here other that to watch over me, and yet, that sly look he gives me. Is it jealousy? That seems unlikely, for unlike myself, Aldrith is far too self-assured for that base emotion. Judgement, then? Is he deciding whether or not he approves of Constantin and I? If so, I do not think it is his place to say, for my parents have approved, and it is only their opinion that matters. Besides, what is there of Constantin to disapprove of? He is loyal and devoted to God and the Empire, and a valuable member of SFRIM - I hardly think Directrix Aspenstar would have chosen him had she not seen his trustworthiness.
Perhaps Aldrith thinks our relationship has moved too quickly, and I suppose that is true. No doubt others do too, yet I truly believe I have found love of the purest kind. TIme will tell, no doubt. I am happy for now, and I believe Constantin is too, and so long as that remains, then I shall hold it dear. Mama and Papa say that for them it was love at first sight, so I know such things may happen, though so very rarely. Is it too much to dare to hope that the same has come to pass for Constantin and I?
My Love is sleeping soundly - the first time since he left for this place, I suspect. I am tired too. He will feel better in the morning now that I have put him through the shower - it is no doubt fortunate that Aldrith did not see us go into the room together - but I shall let him sleep as long as possible, for he needs to rest. In the morning I shall see what I can do to help here also, for what else can I do but try to repay a little of the Blessings I have been granted by aiding and comforting the people brought to this facility? It is only right. For now, though, I shall curl up in my Constantin's arms. Let Aldrith see us, let him see what True Love looks like.
I write this by lamplight in a makeshift medical facility on Anath IV. My darling Constantin lies asleep beside me on a pallet of unused tents, though he is so tired I dare say even the ground would be comfortable.
I had no choice, I must confess. I followed my heart and came here without even trying to seek permission, for I knew I must see him again, I felt that he needed me; and so he did! When I arrived he was so focused on his tasks, compiling the lists of the deceased for The Book of Records, that he did not even notice when I called his name. He even walked away, and did not see me until he turned around and looked directly at me. Oh, I had hoped the sight of me would have lifted his heart, but my brave, noble Constantin broke and wept. He thought I was merely a dream, an apparition, and the fear that I was on the verge of disappearing was too much for him.
I held him as closely as I could, stroked his hair, and soothed him, did I all in my power to prove that I was no figment, but was there before him as real as I could be. Oh, My Darling, what trials have you put yourself through that you should be thus? As you have tended to others, so I shall tend to you.
Then Aldrith gave comment.
I did not even know he was on Anath IV, nor why he should be so! Yet there he was, with his entourage of bodyguards and the strangest smirk on his face, as though he were checking on Constantin and I. I see him now, drifting - no, drifting is not the correct word - stalking, like a predator, through the room, glancing from time to time at the two of us. I cannot fathom his thoughts, and I am sure he must have some reason to be here other that to watch over me, and yet, that sly look he gives me. Is it jealousy? That seems unlikely, for unlike myself, Aldrith is far too self-assured for that base emotion. Judgement, then? Is he deciding whether or not he approves of Constantin and I? If so, I do not think it is his place to say, for my parents have approved, and it is only their opinion that matters. Besides, what is there of Constantin to disapprove of? He is loyal and devoted to God and the Empire, and a valuable member of SFRIM - I hardly think Directrix Aspenstar would have chosen him had she not seen his trustworthiness.
Perhaps Aldrith thinks our relationship has moved too quickly, and I suppose that is true. No doubt others do too, yet I truly believe I have found love of the purest kind. TIme will tell, no doubt. I am happy for now, and I believe Constantin is too, and so long as that remains, then I shall hold it dear. Mama and Papa say that for them it was love at first sight, so I know such things may happen, though so very rarely. Is it too much to dare to hope that the same has come to pass for Constantin and I?
My Love is sleeping soundly - the first time since he left for this place, I suspect. I am tired too. He will feel better in the morning now that I have put him through the shower - it is no doubt fortunate that Aldrith did not see us go into the room together - but I shall let him sleep as long as possible, for he needs to rest. In the morning I shall see what I can do to help here also, for what else can I do but try to repay a little of the Blessings I have been granted by aiding and comforting the people brought to this facility? It is only right. For now, though, I shall curl up in my Constantin's arms. Let Aldrith see us, let him see what True Love looks like.
24-03-YC121
Later
I worry for my darling Constantin. He writes of his duties in Anath, and of how difficult they are. I think he is not sleeping properly, and such work is weighing heavily upon him. His pure, kind soul is not for such things, but I know he is strong and brave, and his worries that he shall be changed in some dark, unhappy way are for nought. I shall do all I can to lift his spirits and cheer him. I know I am so low and unworthy of his love, for my soul is troubled and impure, the taint of Darkness as is within it. Yet I must be strong for my love, and push all worries and doubts, all the pain and sorrow that lies within, as far down as I can. I must be nothing but joy and happiness for My Star, for that is what he deserves.
I pray that I am strong enough, but I cannot deny that at night, when I am alone, the doubts pound and race through my head, and it grows difficult to shut them out. I strive to resist the comforts of old, the sharp sting of my Old Friend that has always served so well to ground and stabilise me. I have enough scars and wounds across my body, and though Dear, Sweet Constantin has never called them ugly, or shown signs of disgust at such marks of weakness, there must surely come a time when even his wonderful patience must expire. So, strong I must be, no matter how difficult the struggle. I must not be weak.
Captain Daphiti has sent a message - I am ordered to take 72 hours shore leave, in apparent recognition of my hard work! I must confess I do not understand in the slightest. First Lady Newelle's invitation, then this order. I have done nothing of any signifance of which I am aware, so why such attention. What shall I do with 72 hours? I know what I wish to do - I wish to see My Love, My Sun, but he is in Anath, an active operations theatre. Surely I am supposed to stay away from anywhere there may be action; but then, my heart so yearns to be with him for even the most fleeting of moments. Perhaps I should ask Captain Daphiti for permission to travel there? She may think me foolish, but duty must come first, even before my own emotions, feelings, and desires. If it does not, if I act selfishly, then I prove only that I am not truly worthy of the Love of such a wonderful man as my Constantin.
Later
I worry for my darling Constantin. He writes of his duties in Anath, and of how difficult they are. I think he is not sleeping properly, and such work is weighing heavily upon him. His pure, kind soul is not for such things, but I know he is strong and brave, and his worries that he shall be changed in some dark, unhappy way are for nought. I shall do all I can to lift his spirits and cheer him. I know I am so low and unworthy of his love, for my soul is troubled and impure, the taint of Darkness as is within it. Yet I must be strong for my love, and push all worries and doubts, all the pain and sorrow that lies within, as far down as I can. I must be nothing but joy and happiness for My Star, for that is what he deserves.
I pray that I am strong enough, but I cannot deny that at night, when I am alone, the doubts pound and race through my head, and it grows difficult to shut them out. I strive to resist the comforts of old, the sharp sting of my Old Friend that has always served so well to ground and stabilise me. I have enough scars and wounds across my body, and though Dear, Sweet Constantin has never called them ugly, or shown signs of disgust at such marks of weakness, there must surely come a time when even his wonderful patience must expire. So, strong I must be, no matter how difficult the struggle. I must not be weak.
Captain Daphiti has sent a message - I am ordered to take 72 hours shore leave, in apparent recognition of my hard work! I must confess I do not understand in the slightest. First Lady Newelle's invitation, then this order. I have done nothing of any signifance of which I am aware, so why such attention. What shall I do with 72 hours? I know what I wish to do - I wish to see My Love, My Sun, but he is in Anath, an active operations theatre. Surely I am supposed to stay away from anywhere there may be action; but then, my heart so yearns to be with him for even the most fleeting of moments. Perhaps I should ask Captain Daphiti for permission to travel there? She may think me foolish, but duty must come first, even before my own emotions, feelings, and desires. If it does not, if I act selfishly, then I prove only that I am not truly worthy of the Love of such a wonderful man as my Constantin.
24-03-YC121
Today saw a most unexpected honour. I was invited to attend Lady Newelle's Court, for a very important, and very exclusive, meeting. I cannot really fathom exactly why I was invited, given the small number of other attendees were people of such moment. The Lord Consort was there, of course, and Alizabeth, the Marshall Protector - whom I recently have been so blessed as to able to call my friend - and Commander Kley. Also present was Chujo Katrina Oniseki, a most valuable ally of ours. I was certainly amongst elevated company!
Chujo Oniseki brought some beautiful gifts for Lady Newelle, and it seems she has great power and influence. Indeed, the main reason for this small gathering was exactly around how PIE might make use of such a well-connected ally in ensure the protection of the Empire. Certainly some very interesting plans were formulated. To be privy to such discussions - it shows the trust that Lady Newelle must have in me, for which I am very grateful, though I feel I have done nothing to warrant such attention.
Commander Kley was named as Mentor to Lady and Lord Consort Newelle son. I can think of no-one better suited to the role, of course, and I am sure the young man will grow up well versed in all manner of education that befits his future role. I think that Commander Kley was quite surprised at being so singled out, but I do not see why - she is such an shining example of a faithful and dutiful retainer that it is only right she be so highly rewarded. Aldrith also hinted that others may be in line to have similarly great honours bestowed upon them. Strangely, he looked directly at me when he said this, with that look in his eye that means he is loading his words with hidden meaning - he has always had a flair for the dramatic - but he surely cannot have been suggesting one of those individuals would be me. I have done nothing at all. I have won no great victories, nor performed any great feat or service. Indeed, I swear I must often fade into the background, eclipsed by the likes of Lieutenant Lioncourt, Commander Kley, or Captains Elkin and Daphiti. I am sure he must have meant something else by it, but I am too dull-witted to understand what.
Nevertheless, it was a pleasure to be there today, and a great honour, made even greater by Lady Newelle quiet thanks in parting, for services to her House. Of course, she means looking after Aldrith that time. Oh dear, I think she would not be thanking me so readily were she to have known my thoughts and desires on that night. Ah, but they are surely laid to rest now.
Today saw a most unexpected honour. I was invited to attend Lady Newelle's Court, for a very important, and very exclusive, meeting. I cannot really fathom exactly why I was invited, given the small number of other attendees were people of such moment. The Lord Consort was there, of course, and Alizabeth, the Marshall Protector - whom I recently have been so blessed as to able to call my friend - and Commander Kley. Also present was Chujo Katrina Oniseki, a most valuable ally of ours. I was certainly amongst elevated company!
Chujo Oniseki brought some beautiful gifts for Lady Newelle, and it seems she has great power and influence. Indeed, the main reason for this small gathering was exactly around how PIE might make use of such a well-connected ally in ensure the protection of the Empire. Certainly some very interesting plans were formulated. To be privy to such discussions - it shows the trust that Lady Newelle must have in me, for which I am very grateful, though I feel I have done nothing to warrant such attention.
Commander Kley was named as Mentor to Lady and Lord Consort Newelle son. I can think of no-one better suited to the role, of course, and I am sure the young man will grow up well versed in all manner of education that befits his future role. I think that Commander Kley was quite surprised at being so singled out, but I do not see why - she is such an shining example of a faithful and dutiful retainer that it is only right she be so highly rewarded. Aldrith also hinted that others may be in line to have similarly great honours bestowed upon them. Strangely, he looked directly at me when he said this, with that look in his eye that means he is loading his words with hidden meaning - he has always had a flair for the dramatic - but he surely cannot have been suggesting one of those individuals would be me. I have done nothing at all. I have won no great victories, nor performed any great feat or service. Indeed, I swear I must often fade into the background, eclipsed by the likes of Lieutenant Lioncourt, Commander Kley, or Captains Elkin and Daphiti. I am sure he must have meant something else by it, but I am too dull-witted to understand what.
Nevertheless, it was a pleasure to be there today, and a great honour, made even greater by Lady Newelle quiet thanks in parting, for services to her House. Of course, she means looking after Aldrith that time. Oh dear, I think she would not be thanking me so readily were she to have known my thoughts and desires on that night. Ah, but they are surely laid to rest now.
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