Blogs

2 juillet 17xx

My heart is heavy with both relief and disappointment as I pen down the events of the past few days. The anticipation of a potential suitor, Arthur de Crownguard, arriving at our estate had initially filled me with cautious hope. His letters, filled with eloquent praises and assurances of his noble intentions, had painted a portrait of a charming gentleman worthy of my consideration. 

Arthur arrived three days ago, and I must admit, his first impression was nothing short of captivating. Tall, with striking features and a demeanor that exuded confidence, he was the embodiment of the suitor my father would have deemed appropriate. His initial conduct seemed impeccable, his conversation witty and engaging. Yet, as the days unfolded, so too did the layers of his true character.

On the first evening, during a dinner in his honor, Arthur's charm began to show cracks. His boasts of hunting prowess and tales of courtly intrigue quickly grew tiresome. He seemed more interested in hearing himself speak than in engaging in meaningful dialogue. His eyes, which I initially found enchanting, often wandered from mine, revealing a disinterest that stung more than his words.

By the second day, his behavior had shifted from merely self-absorbed to outright ungentlemanly. He took liberties with our servants, treating them with a condescension that was both unbecoming and unacceptable. His attempts at flattery became invasive, his compliments turning into presumptuous remarks that disregarded my dignity and personal space.

The final straw came yesterday during a walk in the gardens. Arthur, in a moment of misplaced bravado, seized my hand without consent, pulling me closer than propriety allowed. His laughter at my discomfort was the epitome of disrespect. It was in that instant I knew—Arthur de Crownguard was a man who valued no one but himself.

Upon returning to the estate, I made the decision to end this ill-fated courtship. I confronted Arthur, expressing in no uncertain terms that his presence was no longer welcome. His reaction, a mixture of feigned surprise and indignation, only solidified my resolve. He departed this morning, his promises of retribution falling on deaf ears.

As I reflect on these past few days, I am reminded of my own worth and the standards I must uphold. A suitor, no matter how charming his facade, must possess a genuine respect for others and an honorable character. Arthur de Crownguard, despite his aristocratic title, was nothing more than a reminder that true nobility lies in one's actions, not one's birthright.

Today, I find solace in my own strength and the unwavering support of my household. My heart is lighter, free from the burden of false pretenses and unworthy intentions. I am reminded that I am better off alone than in the company of a man who does not respect or value me.

The future remains uncertain, but I am reassured by the knowledge that I am capable of discerning true virtue from mere veneer. In this, I find empowerment, and I am ready to continue my journey, with or without a suitor, as Princesse d'Aïana.

With love,

C

27 juin 17xx

Today marks the somber anniversary of the passing of my great-grandfather, Louis-Antoine Guarocuya. The weight of his legacy, so intricately woven into the fabric of my existence, guided my steps this morning to the humble chapel at the heart of our estate. 

The air was crisp as I approached the chapel, the early summer sun casting a golden hue over the meticulously tended gardens. The fragrance of blooming roses mixed with the lingering scent of morning dew, a gentle reminder of the cycle of life and the passage of time. 

Inside, the chapel was quiet, save for the soft rustle of my gown and the distant chirping of birds outside. The stillness was profound, a sanctuary from the tumult of court life and the relentless demands of my position. I knelt before the altar, lighting a single candle in memory of Louis-Jean. The flame flickered, casting dancing shadows that seemed to echo the vibrant yet tumultuous life he led.

As I prayed, I thought of his journey from the distant shores of Aiyana to the opulent halls of Versailles. His resilience and fortitude, traits that have been a guiding light for our family, stood as a testament to the strength of our heritage. His legacy is one of honor and perseverance. It is a legacy that I am both humbled and proud to uphold.

Leaving the chapel, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. My great-grandfather's spirit, his unwavering dedication to our family and his unyielding pursuit of excellence, continues to inspire me. It is my duty to honor his memory, not just in moments of reflection, but through my actions and contributions to the world around me.

As I returned to the estate, the lively chatter from the household staff filled the air. Listening to my steward, who provided me the latest news on the financial matters of the estate, I see the continued work of my great-grandfather's dreams.

This day, marked by remembrance and reverence, reinforces my commitment to the values he cherished. I shall carry his torch forward, illuminating the path for future generations, just as he did for me.

22 juin 17xx

Today, I received delightful news from Monsieur Baumé. With his characteristic efficiency and attention to detail, Pierre-Louis informed me of a plot of land up for auction in the Faubourg Saint-Germain district of Paris. This district has long held a certain allure for me, its fashionable townhomes and vibrant atmosphere promising a perfect blend of elegance and activity.

Pierre-Louis, ever the dependable steward, detailed the attributes of the plot: its favorable location, ample size, and the potential it holds for creating a stunning hôtel. His enthusiasm mirrored my own, and I could see the vision taking shape even as he spoke. This plot is not merely a piece of land; it is the foundation of our future presence in Paris, a testament to the d'Aïana legacy.

Without hesitation, I instructed Pierre-Louis to contact my banker and secure a bid for the plot. The excitement in his eyes was unmistakable, and I knew he shared my determination to acquire this valuable piece of real estate. The thought of Hôtel d'Aïana rising in Faubourg Saint-Germain, a beacon of our family's influence and heritage, fills me with pride.

I trust Pierre-Louis implicitly, knowing he will navigate the complexities of the auction with skill and diligence. His loyalty and competence have been invaluable to me, and I am confident he will secure the plot at a favorable price. As we move forward with this endeavor, I am filled with a sense of purpose and ambition. This new residence will be more than a home; it will be a hub for our business, a center for cultural exchange, and a symbol of our enduring legacy.

I can already envision the grand façade of Hôtel d'Aïana, the elegant salons where I will host gatherings of the brightest minds, and the serene gardens that will provide a sanctuary from the bustle of city life. The future is bright, and with Pierre-Louis to assist, I am eager to embrace this new chapter.

Catherine-Joséphine

21 juin 17xx

This morning, I had the pleasure of meeting with Pierre-Louis Baumé, my new steward, whose expertise and dedication will be instrumental in managing the estate. Though his primary responsibility is overseeing my father's farms in this region, I have also entrusted him with providing guidance on the coffee and estates in Saint-Domingue. His knowledge and experience are exactly what we need to ensure both domains flourish.

Our discussion was thorough and insightful. Pierre-Louis possesses a keen understanding of agricultural management and has already proposed several improvements for the farms here. His suggestions for my late Maman's estates in Saint-Domingue are equally promising. We reviewed the accounting books together, despite his hesitations, and he provided valuable insights into optimizing production and enhancing our trade routes. I am confident that with his stewardship, we will see considerable growth and prosperity.

In addition to the administrative duties, I have dispatched a commission for new furnishings. The current decor, though charming, does not reflect the vibrant and renewed spirit I wish to cultivate here. I have chosen pieces that embody elegance and comfort, aiming to create an atmosphere that is both welcoming and reflective of my heritage. This endeavor will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the château but also signify a fresh start for all who reside and visit here.

This afternoon, I had a heartfelt meeting with Father Antoine, the local priest. Our conversation was deeply moving, as he shared the needs and struggles of the parish. I have pledged to increase donations to the church, ensuring that it remains a pillar of support and faith for the community. Additionally, I am establishing a charitable fund dedicated to aiding the poor. This fund will provide essential resources and assistance to those in need, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility and compassion.

Reviewing the detailed account book has been both enlightening and somewhat daunting. The expenses, while necessary, are substantial. Household staff salaries alone amount to a significant sum, but I am grateful for their loyalty and the seamless operation they ensure at the château. The salaries for Jacques Lefevre, our butler, Elise Martin, our cook, and the rest of the dedicated staff are well-earned, and I am committed to maintaining their welfare as they do ours.

Agricultural costs and estate management fees also add up, yet they are crucial for the sustainability of our farms and estates. Pierre-Louis’s fee is a worthwhile investment, given the value he brings in overseeing and improving our operations. The expenses for farm workers in both France and Aiyana are essential for maintaining productivity and ensuring the quality of our produce, from wheat and wine to coffee, sugar, and rum.

Personal expenses, while reflective of my station, must be managed judiciously. Clothing, shoes, jewelry, and hair styling are not just indulgences but symbols of the dignity and status my family has upheld for generations. Still, I am mindful of the need to balance these costs with the overall financial health of the estate.

As I write this entry, I am filled with a sense of purpose and hope. The work ahead is substantial, but with the help of capable individuals like Pierre-Louis and the guidance of Father Antoine, I am confident that we will achieve our goals. Château d'Aïana is not just a residence; it is a symbol of resilience, renewal, and generosity.

With unwavering resolve,
Catherine

20 juin 17xx

Today marks my arrival at the Château d'Aïana. I have very little memories of this place, though there was a friendly, plump cook who often gave me sweets as a child.

But now, as a woman and chatelaine in my father's absence, managing such an estate has become my major endeavor.

The journey here was long and reflective. As the carriage approached the gates of Château d'Aïana, I felt a mixture of apprehension and resolve. Stepping out, I was greeted by a genteel household staff of twelve, their demeanor both welcoming and respectful. They introduced themselves with warmth, each name and face adding to the sense of community I hope to foster here.

The staff graciously showed me through the rooms of the château, each one steeped in a quiet elegance that spoke of a different life, one I am now tasked with overseeing. They presented the accounting books, detailed records that my father meticulously maintained. As I reviewed these documents, I was struck by the enormity of the responsibility that now rests upon my shoulders. The management of this estate is not merely about maintaining its physical beauty but ensuring its prosperity for the future.

Shortly after my arrival, I was introduced to Madame de Varriale, a wealthy and influential landowner of the region. Her reputation precedes her, known for her wisdom and efficiency in managing vast estates. Madame de Varriale graciously offered to show me around her estates, sharing invaluable insights and practical advice on estate management. Her guidance has already proven indispensable, and I am grateful for her willingness to assist me during this transitional period.

Madame de Varriale took me through the surrounding lands, highlighting the fertile fields and lush vineyards that make this region so bountiful. She introduced me to several key figures in the community, fostering connections that will be vital for the smooth operation of the estate. Her expertise in household management is evident, and I intend to implement many of her suggestions to ensure that Château d'Aïana runs with the same precision and grace.

As the day draws to a close, I find myself sitting in the study, reflecting on the events of this momentous day. The château, with its serene beauty and the promise of a new beginning, fills me with both hope and determination. The staff’s loyalty and Madame de Varriale’s mentorship are invaluable assets, and I am confident that, together, we will uphold the legacy of this estate.

In dedication,
Catherine

My life of leisure is over!  I must admit that my role as the estate manager for the QH Co-op hasn’t been all that taxing, mostly involving chasing after chickens which have run amok and testing new products to confirm their overall safety.

That’s all change with the introduction of the new AoR Household Management Challenge (HHMC) which now finds me up before dawn lighting the fires in the bread ovens and preparing the dough for another round of baking.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I’m starting this challenge at rather a disadvantage as I have absolutely no skills, experience or coins.  So, while Tat may aspire to running a Family or eventually an Estate, I’m content to make my way as an Individual Household.  Looking after myself is quite enough of a challenge!

I’ve made a deal with her to provide me with all the wheat and milk I require in return for my labour, milling her flour, baking her bread, and churning her butter.  Sometimes I think it would just be easier to grow my own wheat & find a willing cow but I begin to enjoy my time in the kitchen.

Cheese and sugar I can make for myself.  I’ve also tried my hand at apple cider which turned out rather well, though I had to spend some precious coins on the cinnamon.

My pocket money comes from the sale of extra butter.  Oh, how I wish we were back in the days of the “Butter Barons” when multiple churns and a bit of milk could make you a fortune in no time flat.

Tea and soap I purchased from local merchants.  I also purchased individual candle sticks only to realize that they couldn’t be loaded into my basket.  Argh!  After grumbling to Tatiana, I’m glad to report that the bulk purchase of candles will soon be possible from our local merchants instead of being monopolized by old Myriam “moneybags” Merchant.

I had no choice but to pay the premium that Myriam demands for raw chicken.  Fortunately, I don’t require much in a week.  We must see if we can convince a butcher to set up shop in our community.

Regarding the monthly challenge, I’m making progress, but I’m hampered by my lack of cooking skills as the Egg Board is a level three recipe.  I’m also saving up to buy that bottle of Hard Cider.  I’m sure that will a bit of hard work and determination I’ll have everything assembled in the next month.

Well, the ovens are heated and the loaves have risen and are ready to be baked.  Soon the wonderful aroma of fresh bread will be filling the kitchen.

I’m asking Tat to post this note for me as soon as she returns from her morning rounds on the farm.

Take care!

Mikhail

Now a year ago - - then after a tumultuous year of events ranging from our lovely pixel wedding, to the dark rl plague, and back to the rise and demise of an 18th century roleplay-project in which we were invested - - I started to secretly build my wife a place to hibernate, as winter was coming and rather depressing in prospects. I built her a garden in the Venetian tradition: Hidden from the outside by walls, but glorious and open on the inside, on various intertwined levels, with many corners and vistas, and a couple of buildings to decorate. The gift was a success (for once she was actually speechless... ) and for a year we were very happy to enjoy our little domain in private, and with family and friends.

After a year, it has now become time to reconsider and renovate. And so a new estate will be built this Autumn/Winter. But before demolition I had to document the gardens as they were, of all the gardens I ever designed I had never made something so Venetian and private as this one. I might keep elements in the new estate, but it will always be different. This was once. We enjoyed it. And now we move on.

The first five pictures I posted are the first in a series. They are five views on the Giardino del Bosso, or: Boxwood Garden), it was the main of the three upper gardens and named after the typical Italian gardens of country estates where the (boxwood) hedges create the shapes of borders and paths. They can be found in: The Venetian Garden (Flickr Album) )

Dear reader,

Hence forward, my person will be singing at the Music Elixir of Life and more than appreciative if you would be interested to experience Live music at the Club I have connected myself to. The warmth and feeling of Family is strong and unique, something that is rare in Second Life. Royal is the approach of the management certainly, because it is hard to safeguard morals and values but it has been proven time and time again that The Elixir takes it more than serious. Beautiful Music and Kind people we welcome, as I am now part of the Club, promoting with joy an enviroment which radiates happiness, kindness and joy. More Royal I could not imagine it to be so if you are interested to come over, you are more than welcome. Almost every day I am there at around 2 pm SLT together with many other wonderful people and we would love to see you there too. Just to relax and hear all kinds of music. From classical to modern, you will not be dissapointed.

The Music Elixir of Life is located at: AmaGi/211/212/24   ( just type it into your destination URL bar or at log in )

Thank you so much for your attention and have a wonderful Experience !

The last of the servants to leave was Anna, having packed up all of her Lady's belongings in numerous trunks. She had no earthly idea of what would become of the estate but heard tell of a distant relation who would be taking the reins; they had already sent word that the entirety of the house staff should be dismissed. They would be bringing their own.

Her heels echoed in the grand marble foyer and she glanced backward, seeing a flash -- perhaps the ghost of her Ladyship, perhaps just her own imagination. 

It seemed impossible that she was gone, but despite the best efforts of physicians, and Anna's own contributions, the fever had won in the end.

Anna would go to the estate's chapel and say a prayer before leaving, both for Lady Olivia and for herself and all of the remaining tenants. She could not see past this, but was comforted in the knowledge that the Lord would provide.

_____________________

[[OOC: I've had a grand old time in 18c. but it's time to move on. Thanks for the memories. Feel free to delete this account if it's beneficial to you. ~O]]

Translated from the Venetian newspapers

' NOTIZIE DEL MONDO '

Thursday, April 16th, 1790
a Report sent by Express Courier
from Our Correspondent in Rome


- ROME - April, 14th
This early morning, around the clock of nine, a small but distinctly curious crowd of people - among them your correspondent - were halted in their passing of the Venetian embassy, the grand palazzo situated on Rome’s Piazza Venezia. Apart from the usual coming and going of clerks on foot, couriers on horse, guards in variation, and the occasional finely dressed official in a carriage, the Venetian embassy is normally very much serene on any given day, to the point of inconspicuous. The number of carriages approaching the main entrance at the piazza, however, was clear proof of greater activity. Inquiries led to nothing as the guards remained austere and all staff leaving the building were clearly ordered to silence. Just before the half hour past nine, attention shifted to the embassy’s side gate in the Via del Plebiscito. Here a train of carriages had formed, waiting for their turn to enter as others left. The crowd walked up and down, trying to catch a glimpse of the dignitaries sitting inside. Not many of them were recognized, as the local nobility seems to be one of the most reclusive and never quite bothered to participate in their own city’s mundane life. A company of guards in Venetian uniform marched out and formed a square around the gate, shielding the entrance from the amassing crowd. Sometimes one could hear very clearly the soft murmur of a prestigious name going through the crowd, and then often accompanied by comments about the silks, satins, and feathers; and the alleged height of wigs, which tops could not even be seen through the glass. By the names overheard, and by the coats of arms seen on the carriage doors, it was clear that members of several of Rome’s great families were entering the embassy. With the location at first thought, your humble correspondent thought it wise to investigate further; especially as this occasion seemed to have a vaguely secretive nature, it not having been announced prior.

Rumours of another train of carriages, forming on the other side of the embassy buildings, caused the curious crowd to split up and manoeuvre through the various routes to the smaller Piazza San Marco. There, at the entrance of the Basilica di San Marco Evangelista al Campidoglio, a well-organized train of carriages, manoeuvring through more guards, had indeed started to arrive. Several known dignitaries and diplomats, and their wives, descended from their carriages to make their way into the basilica. No guards, nor any of the servants coming and going from the embassy were very willing to disclose any information to your correspondent. The bustling crowd, however, now started to assemble the pieces of an hour’s list of arriving names; and so one came to assume the possibility of a wedding between Venetian and Roman noble houses.

It was not before the sudden appearance of three pitch-black carriages, all adorned with an identical coat of arms, coming from the arch between the embassy and the Franciscan monastery, that your correspondent was able to slowly put the now puzzling myriad of illustrious names and appearances together to a point of logic. As these three carriages - decorated ever so subtly with gilded garlands and, with tall horses that can only be described as majestic in their gait and with coats as black and shiny as the carriages themselves, with footmen dressed in red and blue livery, the main colours of this prominent family’s coat of arms - passed in the most calm procession possible, taking a wide course over the Piazza San Marco as it was smoothly cleared from all other remaining carriages; it then dawned upon your correspondent they had come directly followed by carriages bearing the coats of arms of the houses of Savorgnan, Giustiniani and Boncompagni-Ludovisi - and from the direction of their residence in Rome, the palazzo at the end of the Piazza SS. Apostoli. Clearly the Venetian house of Della Torre di Rezzonico would be the one celebrating a wedding today; especially as the Basilica is not only the main church for the Venetians in Rome, but also - and not by mere coincidence - the current titular church of His Eminence, the Cardinal-Camerlengo Carlo Rezzonico. By ways of industrious inquiring with no expenses saved by your correspondent for obtaining this information, it later came to light from not one but two well-informed sources, this was indeed a wedding of such nature. - The only son of the late Don Ludovico Rezzonico, Procurator of San Marco and Senator of the Venetian Republic, and his wife, now dowager Donna Faustina Rezzonico (born of the Marquesses Savorgnan) will have wed today.

The young Don Abbondio Rezzonico, is the current Count of Rezzonico and head of his family’s widely spread banking and mercantile enterprises, as were his father and grandfathers before him. He is namesake of his much respected uncle, Don Abbondio Rezzonico, Senator of Rome, who was also seen today in the family procession with his wife Donna Ippolita (sister to the current Prince of Piombino). Albeit still distinctly Venetian in all their abstemious splendour, as proven today by their arrival, the house of Rezzonico as of recent years has become more prominent in Rome, ever since 1758, when one of theirs was elected and crowned to the most divine and highest of office: the now late Pontiff Clemente XIII. Their association with the Curia has far from ceased since.
And ranking among the highest nobility of Rome, it was of no surprise that among the coats of arms on carriages were also spotted those of the houses of Aldobrandini, Altieri, Borromeo, Braschi, Chigi, Giustiniani, Mancini, Odescalchi, Orsini, Pamphili, Ruspoli - and more notably those of the Count of Moriana, the Princes of Melfi, Cerveteri, Oriolo and Soriano, as well as those of the Dukes of Fiano and Bracciano.

As expected the bride was not seen or heard of today, she will have stayed within the embassy. Though on further inquiry it was learned she is not of native but English birth - a British peeress in her own right even, it is said – her name being called by one trusted source as Donna Renata Beaumont, Duchess of Aumale. Alas! No more information was to be gained about the bride or the background of this marriage - other than statements of the mere obvious fact that the British, already having been steadfast in their admiration and love for our lands for so long, are now keen on consolidating their continuous presence - not only by influencing the great gardens of Rome, but now also by sending their daughters and sisters to wed into the great families of our ancient peninsula!

Your humble correspondent, having spent most of the day inquiring and wandering around the closed embassy - where music has been heard for most of the day’s remainder - only found two additional sources willing to disclose that the newly-wed couple will shortly exchange Rome for the Neapolitan island of Rocca Sorrentina, where wedding celebrations shall continue among their mutual friends. And such before embarking on a later journey to Our Most Serene Republic where the groom shall most likely introduce his bride into Venetian society and show her the extent of his family’s estates. Your correspondent, albeit still slightly puzzled by the sudden and mysterious character of this unannounced event, cannot but affirm in any way that the entrance of this new and British Contessa Rezzonico into Roman society is one unprecedented thus far.