I ended my previous post with a thanks to the Lord, an unashamed, unabashed plea for the good times to stay, in exchange for my appreciation and gratitude. So far, I must say that my prayers have been answered. 

My Mother joined me here in the Far East a few days ago, and though her journey was tumultuous, she has taken to the Far East like a duck to water. I forget that she has travelled as much as I have in her younger days, and though this is her first time to my Eastern city, she is more interested in the people I know than the places I have been. So we have dallied with friends, wandered the mountainside, delighted at the spectacle of dancing water that has astonished so many visitors to my Easter home. I am glad that she is enjoying herself and I hope she gets just as much enjoyment out of her own travels to come. 

Before Mother arrived I did have one day worth writing home about. It was a Wednesday and due to a wonderful tradition, everyone was in fiesta mode as we were celebrating the King of Festivals. I spent the morning in a state of undress with an artist of note - nothing like the portrait of Venus the Duke of Albany had commissioned for me all those years ago - but rather something much deeper and darker, and I have to admit it took me a fair while to get comfortable with my body being scrutinised in such a way. 

That afternoon I jaunted over the waters to a larger city to spend time with the Scottish Earl who surprised me with a visit. I couldn't not see him while he was in town, and there are rumours that he may be here for a little longer than expected. But of course it should have been scandalous to jump from one situation to another, yet it looks like I am used to these various trysts. 

The final chapter of the day was a complete surprise, even for me. I had left my painting class after my delicious dinner with the Scottish Earl and was wandering the streets of this most glorious city, when I heard the ever-so-familiar notes of a ballad from a musician I hadn't thought of in months. I couldn't help but be drawn to the sound. 

I didn't expect to see the same deep, dark eyes staring back at me from an equally shocked face from my travels in Indochina many months before. The musician continued to play, ever the professional, but the second he had a moment to spare, there we were laughing and talking about our fond memories from before Christmas. He was never someone I wrote of as an individual, always too wrapped up in the man who made me see myself, but now, now that I know what I am... I still can say nothing more. Not until I see him again.

And of this beautiful Iberian princess that I have become acquainted with...? For now, I have no words.

D. S.

As always I have no idea where to start... Other than the beginning, but that in itself is a rather tricky situation. Where even is the beginning?

I have just journeyed back from the tropical delights of the Kingdom of Siam, and am suffering from a a serious case of withdrawal. I travelled on my own, learning to love myself once again, and indeed discovering that my normally rather cold and calculated demeanour, melted away under the blazing sun and I am ready to try and care about other people. 

Of course I have always cared about my friends and my family, that goes without question, but my apprehension is more towards opening up to other people, allowing them to get to know me a little more intimately, rather than accepting me for the more brusque and brash personality that I am known for. It's a wonderous feeling to be so alone in another country where I do not know the traditions, culture or the language. It is truly eye-opening to discover how much I do not know about the world. It is humbling to be accepted by strangers with a wide smile and kind offer of hospitality. 

There were sights I will never forget: fish the size of my body leaping out of the water, flying towards large pieces of bread thrown from bridges and decks on the shore; lizards lazing in the sun on low-hanging trees, their scaly tails taut against the branches in the wind; palaces of gold and silver, diamonds glistening at every turn; statues towering over the throngs of people that crowded around them in search of some good fortune.


I have so much love and respect for the Kingdom of Siam, it was stunningly beautiful in parts - the river, the palaces and temples; the places of worship - both spiritual and material - yet they were contrasting in a painfully obvious, yet ignored way, with the squalor of wooden huts and corrugated metal houses that were hidden in plain sight, overshadowed by the grandeur of the architecture. It was an enlightening place to visit, and I know that the three days I had there weren't enough to do the city justice. I'm sure I shall find it in me to travel there again at some point in the future. 

The monks were something to behold, their robes of orange clashing brilliantly with the hue of the city, but more than that, they held themselves with such a poise that they were revered from across the street. Furtive glances were kept low out of respect and yet the monks had a look of serenity upon each of their faces. I was entranced by their very presence, even more so when I saw them out of context, beside the markets and peddlars rather than contemplating life beneath a fresco of their beloved Buddha. I still have so much to learn.

D. S.

As much of a cliché as it is to state 'new year, new me' at this time every three hundred and sixty five and a quarter days, I don't feel that urge. I don't feel any different at all to how I felt this time last week. I am more determined to focus on my favoured crafts; writing and drawing, but those are longings that I have all year round. The start of a new year only reminds me that life goes on, and there is nothing at all we can do about it.

I don't want to compromise myself, nor constantly adapt to suit my surroundings. I wish I could accept that I will not fit into every environment, but should rather spend time searching for my natural habitat - whatever that may be.

Anyhow, I have returned to the Far East with a bronze on my shoulders, and a flurry of fond memories, though it is truly wonderful to be home. Yes. I'm home. It may not be my native or natural habitat, but I have adapted the Orient to suit my needs. It is my home. For now. But I felt a huge release and the utmost relief as I stepped foot on the familiarly foreign soil. I have said similar things about various countries, but for the first time in half a decade I'm not considering where I can go next. 

I'm content with the space I am occupying, I just need to figure out how to spend more time doing what it is I love. 

As far as men are concerned, I am doing my utmost to keep them from my thoughts... There are always suitors, whether conjured up from the past, those who I can see and touch and taste in my present, or those that will somehow find a way into my future. I have spent far too many hours and days dwelling on these men. They aren't going anywhere, so I may as well accept that and do what makes me happy.

Even now I know less than I did before. In an ever-changing world only one thing is certain; change. 

Conversations have flitted around the topic of the Summer between the Duke of Albany and I, and I don't think it is possible for me to show my gratitude as he has been more than understanding and undoubtedly supportive. I do not deserve the love of the Duke, nor to have him pandering to the oscillating whims of the universe. 

Brighthelmstone or the Shire. I believe that my predilection for Brighthelmstone has been noted by all, but whether or not that pleases the world enough to allow me to return there TWICE this year? Would I be so fortunate?

My wanderlust is far from sated at the thought of traversing the length of England, I still need to go further afield. Somewhere as different as the Antipodes where I could meet more people who think and feel the way I do. As delightful as England is, this island seems to breed a sense of superiority and lust for material things. I fall too easily into those types of longings when I am here, not rejoicing in everything else the world has to offer. 

I need to travel. It makes me a better person. 


I forgot to mention what it was like seeing my Mother again after so many months apart. It has been a whirlwind few weeks and it doesn't look to me slowing down any time soon.

She was far happier than I can remember seeing her of late, yet she seemed relatively unchanged. It was wonderful to catch up, surely no one has the pleasure of knowing you like your own Mother? I suppose she didn't help change my mind about travelling as she has called many other places her home since I last saw her. If anything she encouraged me to take the leap...

We shall see. It's the unknown that is most frustrating.



D. S.

Again. A decision was made only to have it blown in the wind by a gentle breeze, scuppering any chances of stability in my life. 

It had been decided by the gods that I was to return to the Shire for the Summer. I had delighted in the fact that I would be able to return home for a good few months and enjoy a countryside lifestyle that I have missed before having to commit to another year as the perfect role model. But it seems the gods are more fickle than I gave them credit for, and now I have another decision to make. 



Brighthelmstone or...



The Shire.

They are both within my grasp and the opportunities are equally astounding, and I am more than delighted to be considered. However, I shall have to go through the pros and cons of each before I ultimately make my decision. 

Brighthelmstone is closer to my heart as I spent the last two summers there, frolicking on the beaches and making friendships, however I may not necessarily have the Duke with me and there will no doubt be fewer returners than last year and it is an enormous responsibility. 

The Shire is my home. I know the paths like the palm of my hand and I haven't spent more than a few weeks there since the Antipodes. Nevertheless, there are some memories of the Convent that I would rather keep under wraps and I would hate for history to repeat itself...

I have already made a decision in my head, but I sometimes worry that I plunge into new situations without spending the necessary time to consider the consequences (twenty year old me, I'm looking at you!).

Fortunately, I have the luxury of time before giving my answer. 

In other news, I have been joined by my Mother. She has been regaling me with tales of her travels yonder and I have to admit I am more than a little jealous. It doesn't seem so long ago that I was calling another country my home and discovering what it meant to live for myself. It is wonderful to see her, of course, but it is only a fleeting visit as she is soon to return to the Continent to visit her own father. 

It's amazing what we put ourselves through for our family.

I have much to ponder, and value the various opinions flying my way; it is interesting to note that the Duke and my Mother are on the same page for this...



D. S. 

Another few days have passed and my routine has changed dramatically; fewer early morning and late nights, which is always a bonus! The writing and studying is no less relentless, but at least I now have the time to do it!

I can't believe that my year as a Lady-in-Waiting is more than half way through! Where on earth has all the time gone? It is only February, so I'm sure that there is every possibility that I could be counting my chickens before they're hatched, but it does seem like before I know it and the Summer will be upon us. 

The Duke of Albany, poor thing, is suffering with an unfortunate condition at the moment, so we have strayed away from intelligent conversation nor discussed our future. Rather I have spent the time looking after my love, trying my hand at the 'domestic goddess' role I know so any other women manage without gloating or complaining. 

I, on the other hand, seem to find the role rather difficult... Who wants to spend all their time at home tidying, sorting, cooking, organising and other drudgeries? I praise those who find comfort in the repetition of their role, and who excel at the simplest of tasks, because I can somehow manage to fail at boiling water ~ it never quite works out according to plan!

Don't get me wrong, I fully appreciate anyone who glides through life with the utmost elegance, but I fear I am more apt to stomping and stumbling, which makes me rather inadequate as domestic goddess. In fact, the Duke may have even made a comment or two about my cooking, but I shall keep those to myself, and try again... Perseverance and stubbornness are my greater strengths (much to his disappointment no doubt!).

In other news, my Mother is returning from the Antipodes and it has been just shy of a year since we have laid eyes on each other. I'm very much looking forward to seeing her, catching up with all we have done since we last saw each other, and hearing all about the other side of the world that I fell in love with all those years ago. Additionally, I'm also rather proud of my home here in the Northern counties and I can't wait to show it off!

I only hope the Duke recovers before my Mother arrives!



D. S.

There is nothing new to report from last week other than the temperatures have risen ever so slightly and everyone is already talking about the Summer months to come. I'm afraid that may be a little premature because we haven't had the heart of Winter yet, and I would not be surprised if the worst was yet to come. 

A very relaxing weekend passed, with little to report as the Duke and I lazed about enjoying each other's company. I did make some time to see the previous amour of the Coxswain as I have yet to hear his side of the story; we chatted for hours, though nothing of much consequence was said. Nevertheless, sometimes there is nothing more therapeutic than idle chatter.

It is a little too soon to think about what I may or may not being doing in 12 months time for, and I am the first to admit it, life often doesn't go according to plan. So why plan? I have never been considered the great architect of my life, rather allowing spontaneous whims to guide me on what has turned out to be a colourful path. Not once, all those years ago, could I have imagined I'd be living in close proximity to the love of my life, having discovered him deep in the heart of another nation! 

I am feeling a lot more confident that whatever happens will be for the best. I cannot think of which I'd rather choose, because each time I think I've decided, I only wake having convinced myself of the other! It is also true that some of me closest peers from my childhood are beginning to start families of their own, and it sometimes makes me wonder why I do not feel anywhere near ready for motherhood.

Is there something wrong with me? I adore children and work in close proximity with them as often as my station allows, but to have a brood of my own?! It is possibly the only conversation the Duke and I have not dared venture, though I believe that is because of a lack of interest on both our parts, rather than a fear of the subject itself. As happy as I am for my friends who have a great adventure ahead of them as Mothers and Fathers, I am much more content knowing that the whole world is still mine, a partially discovered oyster that has yet to release its pearl.



D. S.

My first week in a brand new location as a brand new educator, making the most of my new role (which I can say no more about) has been fabulous. I wish I could divulge more but it is not my place to say, other than I am enjoying my Royal charge duties as a Lady-in-Waiting.

The northern counties have always been good to me, but this time round I definitely feel as if I am in more control than ever before. I've always been somewhat demanding and stubborn (you may feel a twinge of pity for the Duke of Albany and his unlimited patience) but I don't think I'd have got to where I am without those personality traits. 

I do miss the northern ladies who I graced the city with last month for we have all gone our separate ways, and though we are all on similar journeys we have to do this part all on our own. I wish them the very best and I hope to hear from them soon, though Christmas will no doubt be an even bigger distraction.

Ahh, Christmas... It seems that Africa is off the cards and I have to admit that I am more than a little disappointed not to return to the land of my heart. But it means the Duke and I can plan our jaunt across the Continent to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and wander through the historic streets of our ancestors. Actually... I can't wait!



D. S.

I definitely spoke too soon! Minutes after I wrote my last post I ventured outside and was stunned by the freezing nature of the wind. The sun was certainly much more deceptive than I'd anticipated, and I have yet to leave my premises without my furs ever since!

It has been a tumultuous ten days; my workload is bearable if continuous, and there are not often times enough to relax in between. Despite being in close quarter with the Duke of Albany, it has been far too long since last had the opportunity to do nothing but lie in each others' arms. This weekend, we shall savour the time we have together and make the most of the cold winter mornings  before Monday looms again.

I'm hoping to hear from Belle today, we have once again managed to go a month without seeing each other, and I miss her optimism and her opinions ~ I must confess she is a master manipulator with the Duke, whereas he can see straight through me, and more often than not ignores me! It is not out of spite, but out of over-familiarity, or at least I assume as much.

The question of Africa still has no answer; my brother is not to fond of the idea of the expedition and quite rightly my Father doesn't want to go without both his children... Indeed, even Mother (though she is 12, 000 miles away) has given her tuppence worth and doesn't think such a massive jaunt is a good idea.

If it were up to me I'd have made the arrangements weeks ago when the invitation had first been opened, but then I am a little more spontaneous (and it hadn't ever occurred to me that the Duke may not want to leave his family for Christmas). So now I wait in Limbo, though travels are a must for the fortnight of escape I have to look forward to. Whether the Duke and I journey over to the Continent or further afield doesn't dampen my spirits, as long as I am not holed up in the South Wing watching the snow fall.

It is far too cold to not have something to look forward to!



D. S.

To think we are on the cusp of winter and it is still warm enough not to wear fur in the day time! It is a stark contrast to the Bohemian winter I endured last year, when the snows were already threatening and the days themselves were grey and dark.

It is a time for seeing old friends as the end of the year creeps upon us, and I had the wonderful pleasure of the Duchess of Tuthershire this past weekend. It is always a pleasure to see her, we laugh and chatter like no time has passed, and it is a delightful feeling to know that some friendships are forever.

She kept me up to date with her life in the Capital, and we gossiped about our last night out together where we made a secret cellar our home for the evening. She talks about her need to travel, with which I can completely sympathise, though she doesn't have the responsibilities that I do to tie her down ~I must admit I am a little envious, for there was a time when the world was my oyster...

Do not think I am discouraged in my own endeavours! I still adore my position as Lady-in-Waiting and the home that the Duke and I have built together. I don't think I will ever 'grow out' of my need to explore, my wanderlust.

Speaking of journeys, Christmas is still the talk of the household. Of course the servants want to know if they have to prepare for the Duke's family to come here from Bohemia, or if the Duke and I are to return to the Shire, or indeed if we are to go further afield to the Sub-Saharan plains.

I'm afraid I still cannot answer this question for there are too many variables to take into account, but no doubt all will be decided at the last minute. Thankfully it is not I (for a change) who is holding up the decision-making-process, for I have cast my vote for Africa. I want to go back after all these years. I want to feel the red soil and yellow grass beneath my feet and listen to the vastness.

It has been long enough.



D. S.

I had started a rather lamentable post about how I had nothing to look forward to this weekend and that the months ahead of me are looking rather bleak as I begin to buckle down and concentrate on my new position as its true, the work has piled up. 

However, Belle to the rescue. 

Out of the blue she appeared yesterday with several snippets of gossip about the new man in her life AND she had the foresight to bring with her two invitations to a local dance! She fanned them at me and teased my relentlessly before she allowed me to read the inscription. We giggled like adolescents and beautified ourselves, trying on clothes and laughing as we reminisced about the times we used to spend doing exactly that. 

She is an absolute wonder and I cannot thank her enough for brightening my somewhat dampened spirits just when I needed her to. And without having to ask her! I suppose that's what friends are for, even after all these years! The Duke of Albany, the dear thing, didn't bat an eyelid as I frolicked around in various states of undress with Belle before we went out. In fact I slightly think he would have enjoyed accompanying us, but he was far too courteous to ask, and though I do adore his company, sometimes there is nothing better than a night out with your best friend.

The dance was a very relaxed affair; nothing like the Balls and Fêtes I have attended in the past, but it reminded me of the days I used to spend in disguise, wanting to make the most of my youth and spend it with people from all walks of life. The aristocracy and nobility may seem to have it all but really we're all restrained from showing our feelings and our bound by duty and obligation. Despite all our fancies, I know I cannot be the only one who would willingly share some of my wealth in order to gain some freedom. 

I'm speaking like a liberal! Whatever would my Father say? I loved my night with Belle and it truly pulled me out of the doldrums, so I shall write her a thank you note.

It is the right, dutiful and courteous thing to do next. 



D. S.

The nights are drawing longer and the mornings seem somewhat darker than they were only a week ago. Winter is most certainly on its way, and the furs are being beaten in preparation for the first frosts. It is never my favourite time of year because I always prefer the glory of summer days, but Autumn and Winter do bring about a certain 'je ne sais quoi'.

We had a trial run of the supposed Christmas festivities that the Duke had organised as he invited his parents to travel over from Bohemia for a few days. It was rather sprung upon me, but he had organised everything magnificently so there was very little for me to do other than be myself and entertain (which does just come naturally to me, of course). It does mean, however, that I have neglected my duties somewhat to my Royal charge and fully intend to make the most of this spare time to catch up on things I ought to have done. 

It is not particularly taxing work, however it does take up rather a lot of time, and I've been so exhausted recently I've needed more and more sleep. Indeed I rather out did myself lat night and slept for a full twelve hours. I haven't had a chance to do that since before I left for the Antipodes!


I do have to admit, it was lovely having the Duke's family here, they were very kind and brought messages from Bohemia. It seems that Christmas will most certainly be full-steam ahead now that we've had such a success here in the north... And now I do not have a leg to stand upon (though I may berate the Duke, just for a few giggles).

Belle and I did promenade the Docks, asking questions about our respective love lives. Her and the Gameskeeper have been parted long enough that she has acquired a new man friend, though she made me promise not to mention him here... I shall have to keep to that promise as it is only a fledgling relationship and not yet fair for me to comment upon ~ not that it is ever fair for me to cast judgement!

In fact the Duke and I have now celebrated our first anniversary together! None were more shocked than we to think we'd still be together after our unconventional meeting and even more perverse courtship, but dare I say we are happier than ever? The darling governess from the Convent even commented this weekend, that she's safe in the knowledge that despite our bickering, the Duke and I love each other. It made me blush to hear another's opinion of my relationship (which is why I need to stop being so judgemental) but I smiled radiantly beneath the blush at the truth of it all.

I've had relationships where the passion quickly fades to indifference and routine. It is far from that with the Duke of Albany. We argue and berate each other, tease and torment, only to forgive and forget... eventually. I wouldn't want our relationship any other way.



D. S.

Another week has passed and to think I have made the northern county my home for a month beggars belief. Where has the time gone? I adore being back in the city where my writing first began, though this second time round is a far cry to the debauchery that used to be a familiar occurrence. 

It is only a few days from the celebration of our first anniversary; the Duke of Albany and I have beaten the odds and survived a long-distance relationship, crossed continents and now live within a stones throw from each other. It is an ideal world I have somehow stumbled upon, and I have to pause and thank the gods for my fortunes, so as not to incite any bad luck.

The sun is shining, but there is a chill in the air as autumn creeps and bustles around the scurrying of the city I have grown to love with a renewed zest. My brand new role, which I witter on about it probably more than I should, is completely delightful. It has opened my eyes to the hardships that some people endure from such a young age, and it makes me want to know more. I can barely put my books down for want of needing to find out more.

I am off tonight with my dearest Belle at long last. She has recovered from her sickness and we are to celebrate our youth and delight in the world around us (though not quite like we used to...) despite having caught a sniffle myself.

October draws nearer and my Father has hinted that he shall spend the Autumn on the Continent, which has made me rather jealous, though there is nowhere else I'd rather be right now. Mother as it so happens, is enjoying her time in the Antipodes, when and if she shall ever return are hazy answered questions, impossible to pin down.

Just in case you ever wondered where my wanderlust came from...



D. S.

How to find the words to say when this week has had a traumatic effect on my perspective of the world? I have heard vile opinions and had my own beliefs questioned, I have heard tales of the brutality of mankind on his lover, his sister, his mother... I have always enjoyed rattling the cage of convention, because how does our world progress without seeking new ideas, but this week has horrified and destroyed what little hope I had left. 

Because I have very little time left in Bohemia I wanted to revel in a week of quiet contemplation; reading up on the world's news and hearing scandalous tales from the shores of my home country. I am no saint, and nor have I nor will I, ever claim to be, but I believe in the good of humanity, the compassion we should show our fellow man and I understand that it isn't always easy to be so selfless. 

The colour of your skin should not effect your future. Your religion should not spark a war. Who you fall in love with should never be made illegal. Where you want to live and make the best of the life you have been given should not be dictated to you by someone who has never met you. And being a woman should not mean that you are a second-class citizen.

I do not want to write down the horrors that world has been subjected to this past week because I do not want to give it a platform and have the evil spread any more than it already has. I want to talk about love and compassion and the good of humankind when I see little children helping a dog in the street. The wonder of seeing a child understand a new lesson for the first time. The brilliance of a sunrise illuminating those who have already gone to work for the day. The world is a place full wonder and awe, how can we divide it up and close our doors to those who only want what's best for their families?

Travelling is the best way to understand that there is more to life than receiving your next month's wage. How is that a way to live when there are beaches to walk upon, mountains to climb, and fields to fall asleep in? I have never been interested in politics, finding it antiquated and rather egotistical - who are you to tell me how to run my life? But for the first time I want my voice to be heard, because I am terrified of what will happen should the ill-educated mob shout a little louder...



D. S.

April is a very changeable month, and not just because of the weather it would seem, though we have had some incredible storms between the days that almost feel like mid-summer. 

The Easter weekend was very quiet, and I have to admit that I was a little surprised to spend it entirely on my own, save for my entourage. I had expected to receive an invitation from the Duke of Albany's family, because of course I have no other friends or family of my own in this foreign land, and after the wonderful time we had together last week, it was impossible to hide my disappointment. 

And though I may be rather blasé with propriety and convention, even I couldn't summon up the impertinence to invite myself over a second time. So the Easter holiday was spent alone, in much contemplation.

I cannot complain too much because I was visited by the Greek muse Calliope and wrote stories and poems and pieces of literature that I hadn't thought myself capable of writing. It was most satisfying to break boundaries within my own imagination, and I truly relished the opportunity to do nothing more than write. 

Nothing more? There is nothing more that I love to do other than write and make passionate love to the Duke. But if I have to wait three weeks for the latter, then I shall concentrate solely on the former. 

Also, I shall enjoy taking the high road and ignore the slight from the Duke's family, though that no doubt means I still have some way to go before they completely accept me as the Duke's other half. But if it means I didn't have to spend the weekend under the artist's judgemental stare, then so be it.



D. S.

Already the Duke of Albany has been and gone and once again I am left in this foreign land alone. Where to begin with the last fortnight of comings and goings? For a change I do not know where to find the words...

I suppose I should start with the Duke's arrival. I waited at his home in Bohemia with his family, the expected pomp and show on display as we whiled away the hours for his retinue to appear over the hills. 

But of course the Duke took the situation into his own hands and did away with convention. A lone horse silhouetted against the blue of the Bohemian sky signalled the Duke's return, and it galloped forward, but without the usual procession. The Duke's family were in no doubt that the rider would be their son and heir, but I was a little more dubious. 

It gladdens my heart to note that my assumption was correct. The rider that cantered towards us only wanted to let the Duke's family know that the Duke had ridden on to my home, rather than to his family first. I blushed and wished I had told the Duke about how relations with his parents were far warmer than a few months back. 

Nevertheless, his mother surprised me and told me to meet him at mine, giving me their fastest horse, only making me promise to bring the Duke home in time for the feast, which of course I was welcome to. Her generosity and knowing wink came as quite a shock, but she too was once a young woman in love, and I graciously accepted her proposal and urged my horse to hasten towards my lover. 

When I arrived at my humble abode I saw an unknown horse in my stables; the thought of being so close to the Duke made my heart quicken. Jeeves smiled at me to let me know that my guest was waiting in the library. I checked my appearance in my small pocket mirror; I was slightly flushed from my ride and I could not contain the curvature of my lips at the prospect of holding the Duke once more in my arms. 

I opened the door to the library and closed it quietly behind me. It was not my intention to sneak up on the Duke, but my heart was in my mouth and all of a sudden I was taken over by an unnatural shyness. Thankfully the Duke knows me all too well and the moment the door closed he put his hands over my eyes and kissed my neck, whispering 'guess who'.

I have never been happier than I was at that moment, to feel his strong hands against my face, holding me as we kissed for the first time in two months. How I hate the distance, but it makes the moments we do have together that much sweeter. I shan't give too many details about how we ransacked the library on our first afternoon together, I shall only remark that there is still a carpenter fixing a few shelves because of our furore...

How I have longed for him to touch me the way he touched me that afternoon. How I have craved the look in his sea blue eyes when he tells me he loves me. How I have yearned to have his arms hold me and soften my cries of pleasure. It was everything I had desired for two months, and I am sure I have yet to recover.

The feast was uneventful, though the Duke was pleased with the progress I had made with his family. He would not give me any details about the property he has yet to purchase in the Northern counties across the continent, nor would he sate my curiosity and allow me to know what was the promised surprise... Though it was worth the wait.



D. S. 

Oh what a glorious day! I cannot thank the gods enough for the blessings they have bestowed upon me. The position of Lady-in-Waiting is mine. Despite my apprehensions about the interview, it seems I was what they were looking for. I can hardly believe my good fortune!! A smile has not left my face since I found out.

Of course this means I need to start making plans (and for once I'm looking forward to the notion!), but I have until September before my rendez vous with the Northern counties for a second period in my life. It shall always have a special place in my heart and I long to return to the city that carved me out of stone ~ despite my many mistakes.

The Duke of Albany is immensely proud of my achievement, but I have not ventured on to the subject of whether he will follow me North. He is still making the most of the Shire and I have heard he has made quite the impression on the ladies though my Mother is rather intrigued by my choice. He returns to Bohemia and to my loving arms next month, where I hope we can broach the subject of the Northern counties. I completely understand that he has his own responsibilities in Bohemia and who am I to tear him away from his family and friends, but the idea of having another heartbreak due to long distance is more than I can bear.

I realise I haven't written about the Duke of Albany in terms of love. It seemed too contrite personally, and now I can't imagine my life without him. I would travel any distance to be by his side (disguising my intentions of course). We are both fiercely independent but I am content in knowing our feelings for each other are on a par. No distance can break us.

For now I have to learn all about the royalty who are to take me in over the Autumn months. I want to brush up on my skills and knowledge, s'truth I have not yet even met those to be in my charge!

Adieu

D. S.