August 30, 1999
Dearest Jane,
I decided to do a bit of exploration throughout Prince Carmine's domain. I was just generally getting a feel for the lay of the land. I took Rosa with me for just-in-case purposes. She, being her usual self, did not mind at all. I was sure to stay out of the "no go" zones of Prince Carmine's territory while I explored. I am curious, not stupid.
I traveled throughout Aragon, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez and the surrounding areas available such travel. The one thing that struck me about all of these places was the incredible number of people squished into an incredibly small amount of space. The Bay Area is densely populated. It reminded me of an over grown anthill of concrete and steel. At one point, for an instant, I actually felt claustrophobic.
How can people live like this? So many people in crowded small areas. It makes me appreciate the small number of chantry members I have. The Dark Water Chantry has given me the solitude and security that I did not realize I needed until now.
I spoke with Zacharie about it some. He agreed with me. Apparently, where he is from, it is also less densely populated. He admitted to me that he disliked driving in this area because so many people drove like speed demons and were less than careful while they drove so fast. I tend to agree with him on that.
Zacharie strikes me as someone who is lonely but very proud of who he is and his place in life. Perhaps, I am being a bit of a busybody, but I think he needs to get out more. And I have the perfect solution. After the last party I went to, I was certain that I did not wish to attend another one without someone to have a decent conversation with. I have asked Zacharie to escort me to the next function I go to. He is such the gentleman that he did not even ask why. That way, I can have someone I can speak with on an equal level and I can get Zacharie out of the house for a bit.
If it goes well, I will have to make a habit of his escorting me, when it is appropriate, that is. It does no good to attempt to woo a politician to your way of thinking with subtle suggestions of sex if he then sees you leaving with another man. Then again, jealousy is a powerful motivator. The game is an intricate one. I will simply have to balance out my needs against the needs of those I hold important to me. Is that not how life is played?
Love,
Kayley
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