1st of October, M.E. 753
It was raining today, so all activities were moved indoors. Noct is still grounded, otherwise I'm certain he would have gone back to Cresholm Channels to fish yet again. Instead, he played video games with his young blonde friend. It escapes me how one can be disciplined by being allowed to play games all day in one's room. But I digress.
I'm beyond pleased to say I'm making definitive ground in the Crownsguard. I've many mentors now, and I've bested a few of them in mock battle. Gladio insists that his tutors are vastly more difficult. I suspect exaggeration.
In any case, the advancement is heartening. One cannot truly serve at the King's right hand unless he can also mold himself into a weapon of easy grasp. If Noct should ever meet with sword, I shall be the one to counter it.
4th of October, M.E. 753
I had to forego training today to go over the political reports with Noctis. My instructors were not pleased. The idea of an assistant is becoming more desirous.
6th of October, M.E. 753
I spied young Miss Claren yet again. I made it a point to formally apologize to her at the library this evening. She seemed quite absorbed in her literature when I approached her. She was sitting slouched in the chair, shoes off and feet tucked to her side. Upon nearing her, I noted the title. She was researching the Founder King. Possibly she is just as fascinated by ancient history as myself.
She was surprised to see me—even a touch embarrassed. She sat up quickly and slid her feet into her shoes and bowed formally. She thought perhaps I needed something, but I assured her otherwise. I don't remember all the details of our conversation, no matter how much I attempt to do so. I will say it was pleasant. After my apology, she relaxed a bit. She assured me no apologies were necessary, as she shared the blame for half of the disruption.
I did learn that she has worked for the Crownskeep for some eight months and had only recently been transferred to attending the Royal Halls. (No wonder I did not notice her sooner! I was beginning to question my attentiveness.)
I mentioned the book, and that led her into an excited ramble about the history of not only Lucis, but the whole of Eos. Her eyes were bright, and she became notably carried away. One thing led into another, and we began to discuss my own classes; I was shocked to note she not only could keep up with my level of cerebralism, but able to surpass me in some subjects. I was struck by her intelligence. Her words took on a sophistication I had not expected. Perhaps my Uncle was correct about her sharp wit. She is certainly not what I expected of a former citizen of Galahd.
I would have liked to discuss more with her, but we were unfortunately interrupted—she received a phone call from her brother requesting her whereabouts. She left to go home. Apparently she lives off-site, at an apartment in the city.
I'm pleased all is well, and equally pleased that she takes comfort in the Royal Library at the end of her long shifts. It is a pity we did not meet sooner. We could have become fast friends.
9th of October, M.E. 753
After my Crownsguard training this morning and after seeing Noctis off, I received quite the surprise. When I walked in to the mandatory morning debriefing, I found a piping hot cup of Ebony at my setting. I did not order it, and I did not expect it. Nevertheless, I was grateful. This busy schedule and late nights pouring over data are beginning to wear thin.
In any case, upon sampling it, I found it to be to my exact specifications for the perfect cup: Extra dark, with a dash of mint crème. I've no idea who left it there. I thought perhaps Aleya, but she was no where to be found. Another oddity of the day I should look into. Perhaps she is ill.
I'm appreciative for that coffee. It made the day bearable. Whomever fetched it for me—whoever they may be—has my profound thanks.
10th of October, M.E. 753
Noctis somehow passed his mock tests. Now for the final. It's to be in a little over three months' time. I've tried tutoring, but he doesn't seem to take it seriously. Noctis Lucis Caelem is extremely intelligent for someone so young, and yet he struggles with his studies. I've no idea if it's a selective retention or if he's simply uninterested. No matter. He's in my charge. If he doesn't do well, the burden of responsibility will fall to me. I must find a way to assist, or he'll be the first prince in our nation's history known to fail his classes. I won't allow that to happen—for my sake, and for his own.
12th of October, M.E. 753
Exhausted this evening, so will only divulge the highlights of an extremely busy day. I was meant to study with Noct, and he also was scheduled for combat training with Gladiolus. He skipped both. He completely disappeared; No one knew of his whereabouts. I'm usually able to find him, but all efforts came to naught, today. We feared he was abducted. The whole Citadel was on alert, and the Crownsguard combed the city. He showed up a little after midnight and no worse for wear.
Of course, he's been grounded again.
I'm not sure what hurts more: my feet, my head, or my pride. If I am not able to keep up with him, who else could? At times, I wonder if I'm fit for this role.
I saw Miss Claren again today. She looked to be under some sort of strain as well. Not surprising. Everyone felt quite the weight of Noct's disappearing act.
15th of October, M.E. 753
I arrived at the meeting early today and found another perfect brew of Ebony. The servants hadn't even entered the room, yet. The only other member there when I arrived was Counselor Latos, and he swore he did not place it there. (Truthfully, it would have been more disturbing if he had). Furthermore, it was there when he walked in, arriving assumedly a few moments before. He did not see who left it there for me. Perhaps from here on I should test it for poison, just to be certain….
The plot thickens.
16th of October, M.E. 753
I couldn't find Noct again today, and was in a pit of an exasperated upset. However, Noct's young friend Prompto caught up to me and explained the Crown Prince was accompanying a rather confused senior citizen to the hospital after they had witnessed him fall. And, when we arrived there, I was quite pleased to find Noct at the end of the bed, asking him questions about his family and the adventures of his youth. Seems he was keen on looking out for him until his family arrived.
It is at times like these when I forget the funambulism of navigating Noctis' varying attitudes, and my heart swells with pride and confidence. Noctis will be a grand king, indeed.
20th of October, M.E. 753
I had some time today, so I again attempted Lady Lunafreya's fabled treat. Noct says I almost have it, so I'll list the ingredients here—lest I forget—and attempt again in the coming months.
Cinnamon Crème Cake
Sweet potato Fine Cleigne Wheat Cinnamon Vanilla Sheep Milk—whipped to a crème
Sugar Margarine Mixed berries Pinch salt dash lemon
24th of October, M.E. 753
My uncle continues to insist I need an assistant. He implores that if my fatigue gets the better of me, disaster will occur. Perhaps he's right. I nearly forgot my report on Accordian trade affairs, this morning. I simply for the life of me cannot imagine who could keep pace with me, and restrain from testing the limits of my temper.
25th of October, M.E. 753
I had a bit of time to myself today, as Noctis decided to spend time with his friend Prompto for his birthday today. He insisted my services were not needed. I sent the guard along and gladly took a day off.
If only it truly were a real day off. I'm afraid I've fallen behind in my studies. It will take some time to catch up. Best for me to make a late-night expedition to the library, I think.
26th of October, M.E. 753
Gladio has arranged for me to train with Commander Yore, quite the formidable foe. Gladio has yet to best him in battle. For the life of me, I cannot fathom why the Master has not yet advanced the ranks any higher than he has. His prowess is well-known. In any case, I am certainly delighted for the opportunity.
27th of October, M.E. 753
I almost had an embarrassing misstep today. I was meant to open the meeting with Prince Noctis' exposé on the state of the Lucian economy. I had double-checked the data and was quite pleased to find everything well-researched and written. And alas! When I stood, the paper was gone! In a flustered scramble, I searched my belongings, but to no avail. The senators had waited quietly while I shuffled through my various documents and books. When I was certain their patience had run out, and I opened my mouth to admit defeat, the doors swung open. As I turned, I saw Aleya Claren coming through those same doors. I think I shall never forget the purpose in her stride, or the way her heels sounded on the council room floor. It was for a moment as if she owned the room.
I hadn't even realized she had not yet entered before now. I suppose I've grown accustomed to the thought of her being at my back.
I had no thoughts to dwell on her tardiness, however. To my utter amazement, she walked directly up to me and produced the very document for which I had been searching. She apologized for the delay in retrieving the paper I had asked her for.
I must confess for a mere moment I was entirely confused. However, when my eyes fell to that paper, a sweet and heady relief flooded through me. I was able to proceed and complete my oral report without incident.
Now, the thought has occurred to me that she should not have been in possession of such a file. I certainly never asked her to retrieve it—of course, she said it as a cover for her true intent. Now what might that intent be? I thought for a few seconds she could have filched it off my person, but I immediately felt regret at the notion. I have dropped paperwork before; It is rare, but it happens. She was only a few moments behind the other Crownskeep waitstaff who had been assigned to the room, so it would not have been in her possession for long.
I can't help but remember the secretive smile she gave me; the sparkle in her eye. She shared a collaborative glance with me, and I know for complete certainty that her only intent had been to keep my dignity intact.
May the gods reward her kindness.