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A Cousin Lost

Posted by Dafne on 03/04/17
Too often people misunderstand nobility.

Nobility is not about silk or jewels or lovely mansions or fine wine or extravagant parties. These are only perks that come with it. Nobility is not even about power.

The clue is in the name--nobility. The quality of being noble. Nobility is about responsibility. Responsibility to our people, and our vassals, to keep them safe and well. Responsibility to our liege, to serve them faithfully. Responsibility to the other peoples of the Compact, to keep our faith with them. Responsibility to the other noble houses, that our dealings be fair and honourable.

It is our sacred responsibility to see to the welfare of all those connected to us. Our responsibility to the very land, for a shard of Gemecitta beats in the heart of every Zaffria and every Rubino. We serve, as much as we rule.

Sometimes those of noble birth realize they are ill-equipped to bear this weighty burden. In that case, the responsible thing--the _noble_ thing--is to recognize this and lay down that burden.

So, in this spirit, I accept the renunciation of title and family made by the former Lady Magden Zaffria. My cousin is dear to me. I will always love her and wish her well. But I accept that she has come to the realization she cannot serve this family, and I confirm that she is no longer Lady, and no longer Zaffria. Neither she, nor any heirs born of her body have any claim to the Zaffria name or the duchy of Gemecitta. Go forth, Mistress Magden, and prosper. Be free. Your cousins continue to serve.

Lady Dafne Zaffria
Voice of Gemecitta.