Written By Noah
Nov. 24, 2021, 5:38 p.m.(8/17/1016 AR)
I have thought long and hard about writing a journal. I mean this may or may not be true, but it is what it is. I did read a few. Here is what I think of them, but I'm not lacking in manners or etiquette to call people out by name.
Someone who has done nothing with their family. Someone who has excluded themselves and constructed an ivory tower. Someone who thinks it best for people that they don't even interact with, no matter how much they are asked to. Someone who does things so unselfishly but feels they would be hard pressed if they did not comment. You know, someone who knows nothing of the people because they have not toured the lands. They have not come to any of the events. They have not come to the area. They have not spoken to people who have pleaded with them to voice opinions or care. Not that this sort of person exists mind you. Nor someone who says they don't do it for their own selfish reasons, well as someone who is selfish. That's fucking bullshit.
In fact, if such a person was so cowardly as to put something like that in the journal and claim how pure the motivation, while not coming to the people they love to talk it out. Well, surely one does not have to have high understanding to see how that's a bit messed up. I was just musing on all of this of course, I mean, no one ever in all the realms could have such cowardice and selfish motivations. I'm sure that everyone cares and would go about things the right way that honors the people. Also, if this offends you, maybe you need to look at you. You might decide you don't care, but really, you might be so vain as to think this journal is about you.
Someone who has done nothing with their family. Someone who has excluded themselves and constructed an ivory tower. Someone who thinks it best for people that they don't even interact with, no matter how much they are asked to. Someone who does things so unselfishly but feels they would be hard pressed if they did not comment. You know, someone who knows nothing of the people because they have not toured the lands. They have not come to any of the events. They have not come to the area. They have not spoken to people who have pleaded with them to voice opinions or care. Not that this sort of person exists mind you. Nor someone who says they don't do it for their own selfish reasons, well as someone who is selfish. That's fucking bullshit.
In fact, if such a person was so cowardly as to put something like that in the journal and claim how pure the motivation, while not coming to the people they love to talk it out. Well, surely one does not have to have high understanding to see how that's a bit messed up. I was just musing on all of this of course, I mean, no one ever in all the realms could have such cowardice and selfish motivations. I'm sure that everyone cares and would go about things the right way that honors the people. Also, if this offends you, maybe you need to look at you. You might decide you don't care, but really, you might be so vain as to think this journal is about you.
Written By Galen
Nov. 24, 2021, 4:31 p.m.(8/17/1016 AR)
I rarely write in the whites, though I find myself in a position where I must write publicly. I will say also that I will not respond to any journal spawned from this one and should anyone desire to engage me in conversation I will accept a messenger to do such.
My sister has sacrificed much in her life, far more than is publicly known. She has given of herself selflessly and without the desire of a reward. She has seen the progress of the Lyceum in a multitude of ways. Culture, infrastructure, power, community, and strengthened diplomatic bonds. It has come to my attention through reading some journals that some are unhappy with the Archduchess taking the action that she has. Yet, this alone does not upset me, I encourage everyone to take a stand and to express themselves, however, it is the brazen audacity to lower themselves to name-calling, to disrespect, and insinuations that question the loyalty, integrity, and word of one who has seen nothing but progress within the entire fealty that I take issue with.
I of course am favorable to my sister and I do not discount that in my words here. Perhaps before so many scribble away freely they might take the time to make sure they fully understand the situation, know all of the facts, and can make a weighted statement. To call dishonor on someone without such knowledge is foolish at best and wicked at worst. The Archduchess has given her word to her peers and to her people that Prince Donato will be considered her own heir and at the appropriate time assume the throne as was always intended. This word was accepted, welcomed, and even desired with excitement by virtually all of her vassals I might add.
If we each judged ourselves as harshly as we do the actions of others we may find ways that we could all improve and bring even more value to the Compact than we currently do.
A person is accountable for every word spoken and written by them, this is a reflection of the way one understands their personal honor and a reason I rarely write or speak on such matters. Let us be wise in all that we say and write, for somewhere someone keeps tally.
My sister has sacrificed much in her life, far more than is publicly known. She has given of herself selflessly and without the desire of a reward. She has seen the progress of the Lyceum in a multitude of ways. Culture, infrastructure, power, community, and strengthened diplomatic bonds. It has come to my attention through reading some journals that some are unhappy with the Archduchess taking the action that she has. Yet, this alone does not upset me, I encourage everyone to take a stand and to express themselves, however, it is the brazen audacity to lower themselves to name-calling, to disrespect, and insinuations that question the loyalty, integrity, and word of one who has seen nothing but progress within the entire fealty that I take issue with.
I of course am favorable to my sister and I do not discount that in my words here. Perhaps before so many scribble away freely they might take the time to make sure they fully understand the situation, know all of the facts, and can make a weighted statement. To call dishonor on someone without such knowledge is foolish at best and wicked at worst. The Archduchess has given her word to her peers and to her people that Prince Donato will be considered her own heir and at the appropriate time assume the throne as was always intended. This word was accepted, welcomed, and even desired with excitement by virtually all of her vassals I might add.
If we each judged ourselves as harshly as we do the actions of others we may find ways that we could all improve and bring even more value to the Compact than we currently do.
A person is accountable for every word spoken and written by them, this is a reflection of the way one understands their personal honor and a reason I rarely write or speak on such matters. Let us be wise in all that we say and write, for somewhere someone keeps tally.
Written By Cesare
Nov. 24, 2021, 2:12 p.m.(8/16/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Savio
In the latest of his many crimes against the Compact, taste, and society in general, Lord Savio Pontelaus Proscipi Amadeo, First of his Name, has assaulted my senses by sending me a poem in which he attempts to rhyme "Softest" with "got tits" (as in, I haven't any). This ignominious event deserves to be recorded, yes, for posterity, and for all time.
Written By Anisha
Nov. 23, 2021, 9:52 p.m.(8/15/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Seren
Darling Seren is back in town, and while our relationship as patron and protege has ended, she is such a delight. I look forward to meeting her, to hearing her stories... And for those in search of a protege, I can but recommend her. Of course, I heard the criers mention her quest for a new patron mere hours ago. So she may have gotten a new patron already...
Written By Iseulet
Nov. 23, 2021, 8:03 p.m.(8/15/1016 AR)
I'm craving garlic bread and a full body massage.
... which also sounds like an amazing business idea. Oily massages with endless garlic bread...
too close to elysia perhaps.
... which also sounds like an amazing business idea. Oily massages with endless garlic bread...
too close to elysia perhaps.
Written By Mirari
Nov. 23, 2021, 6:33 p.m.(8/15/1016 AR)
Conceit: the inability to read the room and realize you are not coming off tough or witty.
Written By Ciaphas
Nov. 23, 2021, 4:39 p.m.(8/15/1016 AR)
Dearest Diary,
Politics are a queer thing. It's all meant to be smoke and polished bronze. Reflections. Moving around it.
Instead now I'm sitting back eating.. some sort of biscuit.. and drinking tea. Not wine. I know, Diary. I know. Shocking. Fear not, the biscuit is indeed definitely not for children.
You know I wouldn't let you down.
Politics - right. Look. I'm a Consort. That means I married into my role. I married.. upwards.. you would say in Arvani. Especially now that I'm in the Compact, I'm pretty sure any previous titles I might have once held were most likely as valuable as sand is to a desert.
But we're not talking about my marriage - my most Benevolent and Merciful Wife has seen fit to bestow this poor beggar with more than I could dream - instead we're taking a look at how curious it is for people to get incredibly upset when they're called a name when they're performing an action that would give you that name.
For example I have been called a lush. A layabout. One might even dare to whisper 'wastrel' -- out of earshot of me because while I am a lush and a layabout, I never waste alcohol nor narcotics. I devour them all, as a good Ischian should.
When one ursurps something, as I've learned this Arvani word and find it absolutely delightful in consolidating everything involved in such an act - all that cunning, all the planning, all the time, the effort, the individuals involved, their will and combined strength and fortitude all pushed together for a singular effort - and we call it 'ursurp'. To encroach. To infringe. To take.
I don't think anyone has any issues about encroaching, infringing, or taking. Unless you're the one that's being ursurped, I guess. But can we call it a successful ursurpation if it's being called out and fought against, be it vocally or otherwise? If you've done it right, nobody is going to gainsay you - except probably as some sort of casus belli - but that then again points to it being a failure.
You shouldn't leave room for doubt. When you take something, nobody should question it. Or dare to question it. When you infringe, you should make it seem like you are entirely justified. When you encroach, people should nod and agree that it was entirely right and proper for you to do it.
If a throne is only meant to seat one, then there shouldn't be two people breathing who both have reasons to sit on it, right? Or everyone should believe that one of the two is the one that is meant to be on the Throne - even if they came by that right by, you guessed it, ursurping.
Speaking of ursurpation, I feel my fingertips starting to tingle. I should most likely wrap this up.
To summarize:
Dear Diary, if you're going to do something. You should do it right, and even if it's a bad thing, you do it with such assurance and confidence, that nobody dares to tell you it's a bad thing.
Like eating all of these delightful biscuits.
Kiss kiss.
Written By Haakon
Nov. 23, 2021, 10:22 a.m.(8/14/1016 AR)
Eloquence: the ability to use a thousand pretty words to get across the same fucking thing one could say with four plain ones.
Written By Quenia
Nov. 23, 2021, 8:34 a.m.(8/14/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Romulius
I heard about what transpired at the Assembly of Peers. I think it would be more prudent to wonder what Lord Marco Eufrasio gains by inciting a potential war between the Lyceum and the Oathlanders, with the way I heard he kept turning toward them at each question he instigated. Why would he turn to the Oathlanders for a matter of concern in the Lyceum except to incite a war between both fealties? Knowing there's been a fair few feuds between the two fealties over history. Especially during a time when civilization is potentially in jeopardy?
He's about as subtle as a brick to the face.
He's about as subtle as a brick to the face.
Written By Viviana
Nov. 23, 2021, 4:03 a.m.(8/14/1016 AR)
No one's truly spared the gift of being utterly heartbroken, unless you're a giant lump of stone, and if so - honestly - you'll need to take better care of yourself. Are you so uncaring, Scholar Einar? No. You're not. No. We are not going to address how alarming that thought is - and bring ourselves to dwell on not of what came to pass - but the sweetness of what could have-been.
Thankfully --
I adapt, my darlings.
Thankfully --
I adapt, my darlings.
Written By Ryhalt
Nov. 23, 2021, 3:53 a.m.(8/14/1016 AR)
Wagons breaking down or sinking of ships is part of the business, an entry in the negative side of the ledgers. What never reaches the ledgers is when loss of life also accompanies those losses. I do not always have opportunity to attend such, but did so this week. It was the work of bandits whom will surely face the consequences via local authorities soon. Times like these breed opportunists and it'll only get worse.
A reason why I dread going over the ledgers with Cotyar and Orvyn are the smaller entries that accompany these entries. These are stipends to widows or families to supplement the loss incurred by being in service to us. It'll never be enough to replace that loss for them for how can any quantify the value of a life? Regardless, it's never a payment I begrudge.
It would seem in that absence I missed an interesting week in Arx between the auction and Assembly of the Peers. I regret that my offering for the auction got rejected or forgotten, so next time I will be sure to submit it in duplicate, word and writing. Missing the Assembly was no great loss, those who know me are well aware of my stance. It seems that the Lyceum leadership is collectively choosing to follow the path of the rebels in the Mourning Isles, brewing up a civil war, an interesting choice when there are so many perils already afflicting us. Also, adding salt to the wound by proclaiming reminders of what was done to earn the position in abrogation of the expectation to remain regent until the heir has come to majority? That just brings more questions, not less. Holding a title is less important than realm stability, but I guess it's a lesson that needs to be learned in others' blood. What you've done matters less and less when what you're doing leads to harm, there is a point where the scales will tip in your disfavor. Shall I add more sad entries to my ledgers for I have no option but to send my ships through Lycene waters in order to reach the rest of the Compact? I don't want to hear assurances of what has been done. I want safe waters to send my people through, but I am seeing warning signals that will soon not be the case. I pray I am wrong, that peace will prevail, but I am not blind.
A reason why I dread going over the ledgers with Cotyar and Orvyn are the smaller entries that accompany these entries. These are stipends to widows or families to supplement the loss incurred by being in service to us. It'll never be enough to replace that loss for them for how can any quantify the value of a life? Regardless, it's never a payment I begrudge.
It would seem in that absence I missed an interesting week in Arx between the auction and Assembly of the Peers. I regret that my offering for the auction got rejected or forgotten, so next time I will be sure to submit it in duplicate, word and writing. Missing the Assembly was no great loss, those who know me are well aware of my stance. It seems that the Lyceum leadership is collectively choosing to follow the path of the rebels in the Mourning Isles, brewing up a civil war, an interesting choice when there are so many perils already afflicting us. Also, adding salt to the wound by proclaiming reminders of what was done to earn the position in abrogation of the expectation to remain regent until the heir has come to majority? That just brings more questions, not less. Holding a title is less important than realm stability, but I guess it's a lesson that needs to be learned in others' blood. What you've done matters less and less when what you're doing leads to harm, there is a point where the scales will tip in your disfavor. Shall I add more sad entries to my ledgers for I have no option but to send my ships through Lycene waters in order to reach the rest of the Compact? I don't want to hear assurances of what has been done. I want safe waters to send my people through, but I am seeing warning signals that will soon not be the case. I pray I am wrong, that peace will prevail, but I am not blind.
Written By Medeia
Nov. 22, 2021, 2:30 p.m.(8/12/1016 AR)
Betraying the trust of children weakens the Compact.
Believe me on this.
Believe me on this.
Written By Romulius
Nov. 22, 2021, 1:41 p.m.(8/12/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Valencia
Your courage in making such a publishing with the Scholars is commendable, and ought serve as an example for each and every member of our Compact. Where matters of justice and righteousness are concerned, there should never be any shame in voicing opposition to such a flagrant refusal to honor the living will of a Highlord.
Especially given that the Archduchess-Regent seems to have a poor understanding of the terms of her own regency. Whatever riches or strength she may have brought to the Lyceum, the suggestion that her selfish and blatant grab for personal power is meant to bring stability is a laughable idea. The Lyceum has a Archduke, already, and given her apparent disregard for honoring the will of Archduchess Eleyna, I find it immensely difficult to trust that the throne will be returned to its rightful holder in Prince Donato. Further, the incredibly thin veil that the Archduchess-Regent adopts when threatening those who owe her vassalage in a space as public as the Assembly of Peers is an embarrassment to her rule and to her family.
Especially given that the Archduchess-Regent seems to have a poor understanding of the terms of her own regency. Whatever riches or strength she may have brought to the Lyceum, the suggestion that her selfish and blatant grab for personal power is meant to bring stability is a laughable idea. The Lyceum has a Archduke, already, and given her apparent disregard for honoring the will of Archduchess Eleyna, I find it immensely difficult to trust that the throne will be returned to its rightful holder in Prince Donato. Further, the incredibly thin veil that the Archduchess-Regent adopts when threatening those who owe her vassalage in a space as public as the Assembly of Peers is an embarrassment to her rule and to her family.
Written By Gwenna
Nov. 22, 2021, 12:51 p.m.(8/12/1016 AR)
Some laundry you simply don't hang on the clothesline.
Written By Cassandra
Nov. 22, 2021, 11:32 a.m.(8/12/1016 AR)
If I am fortunate enough that my Whites survive for so long, then hundreds of years from now, Scholars of their day will look upon this aged and weathered sheet and wonder among themselves as to whom Legate Cassandra Laurent was referring when she spoke in a single cryptic entry of the Armlector of Gild.
Written By Gio
Nov. 22, 2021, 3:47 a.m.(8/11/1016 AR)
A foundation of selfishness has much to wanting and needing - need focused on: the ebony-violet skin of a fig, a drizzle of honey, the tart flavor of goat's cheese, and that long - last hour before sunset when everything is washed in gold, Gild's thankful hour - following this, the damned wanting, because the world seems almost perfect except for one noticeable absence -
Written By Temira
Nov. 21, 2021, 10:11 p.m.(8/11/1016 AR)
Scouting is always an easy task for me to do, been doing it for a long time. So lets hope what we found will be worth it. sometimes its tough when looking for answer just leads to more questions.
Written By Patrizio
Nov. 21, 2021, 10:01 p.m.(8/11/1016 AR)
A delightful evening spent at the Golden Hart, once more, for the benefit held by Messere Minister Rook and her highness Valencia. I thrill to the multitude of faces who appeared to support a very worthy cause, the artisans who gave of their talents and time to inspire those to open their purses, and more so to the sums that were raised for a very worthy cause.
I might be biased, scholar, in that I do so support the Hart, but in these times of strife, when the gods doubtless look down upon us and wonder at whether this Compact /deserves/ to endure... that we have these examples of how we can pull together as one. Not by need of gathering a force, but in a peaceful showing of love for our fellow citizen.
May the gods continue to smile upon us, and may such good acts keep us in their favour.
I might be biased, scholar, in that I do so support the Hart, but in these times of strife, when the gods doubtless look down upon us and wonder at whether this Compact /deserves/ to endure... that we have these examples of how we can pull together as one. Not by need of gathering a force, but in a peaceful showing of love for our fellow citizen.
May the gods continue to smile upon us, and may such good acts keep us in their favour.
Written By Cassiopeia
Nov. 21, 2021, 9:57 p.m.(8/11/1016 AR)
The Festival of Blooms was lovely. I have to admit, my favourite part was throwing them at people!
Written By Valencia
Nov. 21, 2021, 9:39 p.m.(8/11/1016 AR)
Sometimes it can be difficult to speak. Especially when one is put in place of danger. But sometimes one must be brave and stand up for what is right and speak the truth regardless of personal peril.
I have given much thought to what is happening in my family and after much consideration and conversation I have decided that the honourable thing to do is to openly and honestly declare my disagreement with the path that is being taken by my house.
I do not do this for personal gain or because I seek power for myself. I do this because I love my house and the Lycene people. Because the integrity of our social contract is one of the few things that ensures our ability to trust and be trusted, and to foster a civil and just society. Something that is much needed in times when we face incredible dangers around us.
To have the final wishes of an Archduke or Archduchess so easily dismissed and their children’s rights ignored is a shameful thing that we will wear upon our history as a black mark and an endless reminder of when we would not stand up for what is just and right.
Further, it puts in every leader and parent in Avrum in a position where their rights and wishes, and the rights and future of their children, in danger. It renders bloodlines and rules of succession impotent and meaningless.
There is not another house in Avrum that would allow this to happen.
To be clear, I respect the dedication and hard work of our many Regents. Their path is an honourable and important one. They are the people who show their love for house and realm, because they act so selflessly. It is not about their power, but the power and growth of the house and the houses that are under wing so that we may all be stronger. They hold in trust what is integral to us, ensure that our people continue to thrive, and allow our heirs safely grow strong, worthy and wise.
If we cannot stand up and protect our values and what we so deeply care about then we perhaps do not deserve them. A frightening thought when you consider what is coming for us. However, I believe that we should do what is honourable and so I will stand in respectful opposition.
I love my family. I love our people. I love my King and realm. It is not my duty. It is my passion. This truth does not change with the weather.
As someone I very much respect and love once said, I know what I am and where I come from.
~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@
I have given much thought to what is happening in my family and after much consideration and conversation I have decided that the honourable thing to do is to openly and honestly declare my disagreement with the path that is being taken by my house.
I do not do this for personal gain or because I seek power for myself. I do this because I love my house and the Lycene people. Because the integrity of our social contract is one of the few things that ensures our ability to trust and be trusted, and to foster a civil and just society. Something that is much needed in times when we face incredible dangers around us.
To have the final wishes of an Archduke or Archduchess so easily dismissed and their children’s rights ignored is a shameful thing that we will wear upon our history as a black mark and an endless reminder of when we would not stand up for what is just and right.
Further, it puts in every leader and parent in Avrum in a position where their rights and wishes, and the rights and future of their children, in danger. It renders bloodlines and rules of succession impotent and meaningless.
There is not another house in Avrum that would allow this to happen.
To be clear, I respect the dedication and hard work of our many Regents. Their path is an honourable and important one. They are the people who show their love for house and realm, because they act so selflessly. It is not about their power, but the power and growth of the house and the houses that are under wing so that we may all be stronger. They hold in trust what is integral to us, ensure that our people continue to thrive, and allow our heirs safely grow strong, worthy and wise.
If we cannot stand up and protect our values and what we so deeply care about then we perhaps do not deserve them. A frightening thought when you consider what is coming for us. However, I believe that we should do what is honourable and so I will stand in respectful opposition.
I love my family. I love our people. I love my King and realm. It is not my duty. It is my passion. This truth does not change with the weather.
As someone I very much respect and love once said, I know what I am and where I come from.
~~~~~~~~~~~<~<~<@
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.