December 23

Journal Entry: December 23, 2025 

Location: Ar's Station (Ironheart) 

Mood/Title: A Tour of Hidden Places, Birthday Confidences, and a Magistrate's Sign

It was a very full morning, both in terms of exploring the city and deepening my connection with the people here. Asher found me early on and took me on a personal tour of some of the city's more hidden areas. He showed me a large event room above the city that is perfect for dancing, and then the Tarn Tower, which has living quarters and an office. He also clarified the defense situation that Izzy had worried me about; it turns out the Fort itself is secure from lockpicking and raids, even if the outer city is not. That puts my mind at ease.

Asher also surprised me by replacing my sign. It now properly reads "Magistrate Kati Evans." It is a small gesture, but it makes me feel truly established here.

Caroline joined us, and we ended up near the water wheel and lumber area. I nearly walked right into the "Pleasure Gardens"—which turns out to be a polite name for the brothel/slave gardens—before Asher stopped me. It is actually quite a beautiful spot with fountains and blue curtains, hidden away below my house, though I suspect I won't be visiting it often!

The most meaningful part of the day, however, was my conversation with Caroline. It is her birthday today. We spoke about our ages—I shared my birth year—and she mentioned her mother is close in age to me. I also opened up about my real-life children and the difficulties I’ve faced. She was incredibly kind and supportive. We seem to share a vision for a community built on connection rather than just population numbers.

We also discussed work, specifically regarding the Physicians, Dr. Massey and his companion. We need to establish a system where blank forms are kept in a file box owned by Asher, so that if the current Physicians leave (as castes often move), the station retains the records and the format.

I am cutting the day short to travel for a nice dinner in the world.

To Do:

• Create a "Master List" of topics to discuss with Asher, starting with the file box for blank caste forms.

• Introduce myself to Dr. Massey and Lady Massey when they are online.

• Locate the perfume shop Asher mentioned (he challenged me to find it on my own).

• Check back on the Google Calendar situation in Lara to see if it has been repaired.