Written By Rowan
Jan. 27, 2017, 12:53 p.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
Baroness Kima is the Sword of Southport, and Lady Niamh is the Sword of Greenmarch, and more over, the Grandmaster of the Champions. Whatever my thoughts on this custom of the Compact, a duel between two of the best sword arms in the city is sure to be worth watching. I have no stake in what two Lycene houses argue between themselves, and one fighter is a friend, while the other my sister. Blood will have to prevail in where I place my wagers and who I root for.
Don't fuck it up, Niamh.
Don't fuck it up, Niamh.
Written By Rowan
Jan. 27, 2017, 12:40 p.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
Two men rowed a small boat around snake infested waters, for there were no safer waters to fish and their families needed food. As luck often goes for those of little option - for only bad luck sees them in the predicament in the first place - things went from bad to worse. They lost their poles to strong fish. They lost oars to the weeds.
On the shore of the waters, two other men spoke and laughed between the themselves over a picnic, with no notice of the boat men. The boat men called to shore, but the shore men were too busy to hear.
The men in the boat tried to paddle with their hands, but were seized upon by the snakes. When the boat men called again, one shore man took notice and laughed, "That was stupid! There are snakes in the water! Why would you do such a thing? Just come to shore, everything is fine here!"
The boat men tried to explain their plight, but the shore men had returned to their revelries, not understanding that the boat men's situation. While the shore men enjoyed themselves, the boat men tried to make the best of theirs. They argued ways to get to shore. They fought in the boat for desperation, and knocked small holes into the hull in the process.
Water flooded their stranded boat, and the snakes gathered around to wait. Their hands were swollen and bleeding. They called again to the shore, and the shore men took notice again, to condemn them putting holes in their boat. The boat was undoubtedly sinking, but they could not see the snakes or the wounds, did not understand their situation.
The men on the shore threw the boat men their spoons.
The boat men became angry, they resented the spoons they were given, but they did what they could with them. The boat continued to fill and sink. When the boat was nearly full of water and snakes were starting to slip through the holes, one of the boat men jumped out, and tried to swim to shore. Facing the snakes seemed more likely to him than help from shore. The other was certain that help would come from shore, and stayed in the boat, furiously bailing out with his spoon.
The shore men grew concerned with the splashing of the one trying to swim to shore, and stood to watch as he was overcome by snakes. "Why would he do such a thing?" they asked between themselves. To the man left in the boat, they called, "Have no worries! We will save you!"
"We should throw him a rope," said one shore man to the other. "A bucket would serve him better," said the other. And so they argued between themselves how best to help the man left in the boat, but it was all in aid too late. The man in the boat had been bitten long before, and was already resentful, and by the time the shore men had made up their mind, the boat was nearly sunk.
Looking between each other, the shore men asked of each other, "Do you know how to fish?"
On the shore of the waters, two other men spoke and laughed between the themselves over a picnic, with no notice of the boat men. The boat men called to shore, but the shore men were too busy to hear.
The men in the boat tried to paddle with their hands, but were seized upon by the snakes. When the boat men called again, one shore man took notice and laughed, "That was stupid! There are snakes in the water! Why would you do such a thing? Just come to shore, everything is fine here!"
The boat men tried to explain their plight, but the shore men had returned to their revelries, not understanding that the boat men's situation. While the shore men enjoyed themselves, the boat men tried to make the best of theirs. They argued ways to get to shore. They fought in the boat for desperation, and knocked small holes into the hull in the process.
Water flooded their stranded boat, and the snakes gathered around to wait. Their hands were swollen and bleeding. They called again to the shore, and the shore men took notice again, to condemn them putting holes in their boat. The boat was undoubtedly sinking, but they could not see the snakes or the wounds, did not understand their situation.
The men on the shore threw the boat men their spoons.
The boat men became angry, they resented the spoons they were given, but they did what they could with them. The boat continued to fill and sink. When the boat was nearly full of water and snakes were starting to slip through the holes, one of the boat men jumped out, and tried to swim to shore. Facing the snakes seemed more likely to him than help from shore. The other was certain that help would come from shore, and stayed in the boat, furiously bailing out with his spoon.
The shore men grew concerned with the splashing of the one trying to swim to shore, and stood to watch as he was overcome by snakes. "Why would he do such a thing?" they asked between themselves. To the man left in the boat, they called, "Have no worries! We will save you!"
"We should throw him a rope," said one shore man to the other. "A bucket would serve him better," said the other. And so they argued between themselves how best to help the man left in the boat, but it was all in aid too late. The man in the boat had been bitten long before, and was already resentful, and by the time the shore men had made up their mind, the boat was nearly sunk.
Looking between each other, the shore men asked of each other, "Do you know how to fish?"
Written By Calypso
Jan. 27, 2017, 10:59 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
The amount of deeply unsettling things happening in the city as of late is staggering. Our Archduchess is missing. I have a few theories but no way to prove them just yet. I hope that she is being kept from harm wherever she was taken.
There is another matter I would like to discuss that rings so painfully true. The unrest in our city. The Lower Burroughs are in such a volital state at the moment. I hear of some are leaving and others are simple enraged. The nobility is despised here. I'm not even sure charitable acts would be looked well on at this point. But we need to try something. Some have suggested rousing speeches. Or showing the common people what we are fighting for. I refuse to let anyone bring live threats in to the city and I'm not convinced showing them the corpses of our mangled foes will do anything but incite fear. I wish I knew what would help. I would gladly spend my precious time with them, listening and hearing their grievances if they would have me. Solutions are met through understanding rather than assuming.
I am not so vain to think any of you read what I write, but should any of you have suggestions I am listening.
There is another matter I would like to discuss that rings so painfully true. The unrest in our city. The Lower Burroughs are in such a volital state at the moment. I hear of some are leaving and others are simple enraged. The nobility is despised here. I'm not even sure charitable acts would be looked well on at this point. But we need to try something. Some have suggested rousing speeches. Or showing the common people what we are fighting for. I refuse to let anyone bring live threats in to the city and I'm not convinced showing them the corpses of our mangled foes will do anything but incite fear. I wish I knew what would help. I would gladly spend my precious time with them, listening and hearing their grievances if they would have me. Solutions are met through understanding rather than assuming.
I am not so vain to think any of you read what I write, but should any of you have suggestions I am listening.
Written By Calista
Jan. 27, 2017, 10:53 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
I saw the last writing and said nothing. I waited in silence for I thought it would be rude to inquire, to reach out and offer a simple "Are you well?" "Is there something I can do for you?" I should have asked these questions as a friend and not as a vassal. I should have asked when I had the opportunity but instead I stayed quiet. Have I not learned from previous experience that time is precious and we cannot take one single day for granted?
I have failed you as a friend. I pray you can forgive me.
I have failed you as a friend. I pray you can forgive me.
Written By Niamh
Jan. 27, 2017, 10:01 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
In a matter of hours, I will stand before the Sword of Southport on a duel to defend the honor of the Duchess of Pravus. I have been asked if I am nervous, to be facing one of the best blades in Arx with no more protection than normal clothing.
No, I am not nervous. The Sentinel will judge the merits of the claims we represent and Gloria will guide our weapons.
They called Champions and tonight will be done with it.
No, I am not nervous. The Sentinel will judge the merits of the claims we represent and Gloria will guide our weapons.
They called Champions and tonight will be done with it.
Written By Reese
Jan. 27, 2017, 7:34 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
I haven't won a single match in over a week's worth of sparring. Should I be ashamed? I am not sure. Maybe I should be. Maybe I am. Should I cease in my vocation is a warrior? I can say with full confidence that I know that I shouldn't and I know that I will not. I will follow Gloria no matter how many spars I lose. I will follow her no matter how many battles I lose. I won't stop fighting: the bringers, my own weaknesses and those who would harm the innocent no matter how many times I fall down. I won't stop sparring and one day I will start winning those spars. When I fight my friends like Tristram, I get a hand back up. I could have got back up without his hand, but it was still nice.
A defeat to a friend is a step further to gaining the skill needed to vanquish an enemy.
Gloria be praised.
A defeat to a friend is a step further to gaining the skill needed to vanquish an enemy.
Gloria be praised.
Written By Reese
Jan. 27, 2017, 7:22 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
I joined the Iron Guard. I got a fancy and cloak and everything. Of course, being a Grayson means that I am not being paid. That just wouldn't be right! I joined because I want to help keep the city safe. On my first night I thought about arresting Captain Audric. He did say his morality is /questionable/. Actually I think it was him who suggested I arrest him. Wait he put that thought into my head! Anyway, he claims to be first man to kill a bringer in Compact and I think his claim is the truth. So I can't arrest him. If he might stand between the people of commons in bringers, he sleep in odd places like the bank. I wonder why he sleeps in the bank? I haven't met Sir. Silas, but I can't wait to! Arresting Audric on my first night on the job, probably wouldn't go so very well. Anyways, Captain Audric says that I can go bringer hunting with him and the Few. I have to spar everyday and pray to Gloria everyday so that I am ready.
Written By Saedrus
Jan. 27, 2017, 6:57 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
A clarification of Profession:
When one says, 'I am a physician' a person smiles, nods, and knows this person is a healer. Should one say, 'I am a smith' a person smiles, nods, and knows this person is a crafter of various mediums. Yet, when one says, 'I am a courtesan' a person is as likely to misuse or misconstrue the other's craft, as it were, as quickly as they are likely to ask which fork is used after entree but before the main.
It is overwhelmingly frustrating at times; having to constantly acquaint people with what the role of a Courtesan actually is or, as is sometimes the case, tear to shreds the misconceptions a person has built. Not that this is merely a problem within the city walls and I have dealt with the same outrageously petulant complaints throughout most of the Compact.
For fear of this matter turning its ugly head and poor taste at me ever again, and the risk of grey hair, I decided to put to clear and concise terms what is it the role those of my vocation take in society and the Compact at large. My hope is that for those that take the time to read this presently, they may be more knowledgeable on the matter and not risk an inevitably embarrassing scenario of being slapped back to the Reckoning for a wandering hand or self-absorbed sense of entitlement. In addition, should this ever be read by historians (and I do, so very much, hope the bite of my internal tone is audible by way of ink) that shed light on any sordid shadows cast on such a noble and enterprising profession by others.
I should note that, come the end of the day, it is to each courtier and courtesan their own; what they do, do not, and will not afford is their own right. As a standard however here is the crux of the matter: what we are not.
We are not lovers leased by the Houses in which we serve. We are not objects to be set aside like collectable dolls on the shelf of an over-indulged child. We are not, nor can be, owned, claimed or bartered over like cattle in the yards.
And certainly it must be said that whether prince or pauper, we are not an Entitlement.
What we are not, though pertinent is not at all that which I seek to be made clear. Most importantly and above all else is what we /are/.
We are artisans in all that we do, and our service to the Compact is one I see as an esteemed honour. Yes, our role is certainly and without doubt one of beauty – and those within the city are exquisite, but there is a great well of wisdom in our ranks as well. We are diplomats within the courts; we are skilled teachers, graceful entertainers and passionate artists.
We each have spent the best part of our lives training in one or many facets of the services we provided. We are present to help speak between Houses in need of more social grace when the risk of a duel may be too much. Some of us sing sweeter than a songbird while others could make a poet weep for their turn of phrase.
And of course, we throw the most outrageously divine parties the Compact has ever seen.
Now it is written for the public, clearly and in most delicate script, I feel ignorance on the matter can no longer be claimed.
When one says, 'I am a physician' a person smiles, nods, and knows this person is a healer. Should one say, 'I am a smith' a person smiles, nods, and knows this person is a crafter of various mediums. Yet, when one says, 'I am a courtesan' a person is as likely to misuse or misconstrue the other's craft, as it were, as quickly as they are likely to ask which fork is used after entree but before the main.
It is overwhelmingly frustrating at times; having to constantly acquaint people with what the role of a Courtesan actually is or, as is sometimes the case, tear to shreds the misconceptions a person has built. Not that this is merely a problem within the city walls and I have dealt with the same outrageously petulant complaints throughout most of the Compact.
For fear of this matter turning its ugly head and poor taste at me ever again, and the risk of grey hair, I decided to put to clear and concise terms what is it the role those of my vocation take in society and the Compact at large. My hope is that for those that take the time to read this presently, they may be more knowledgeable on the matter and not risk an inevitably embarrassing scenario of being slapped back to the Reckoning for a wandering hand or self-absorbed sense of entitlement. In addition, should this ever be read by historians (and I do, so very much, hope the bite of my internal tone is audible by way of ink) that shed light on any sordid shadows cast on such a noble and enterprising profession by others.
I should note that, come the end of the day, it is to each courtier and courtesan their own; what they do, do not, and will not afford is their own right. As a standard however here is the crux of the matter: what we are not.
We are not lovers leased by the Houses in which we serve. We are not objects to be set aside like collectable dolls on the shelf of an over-indulged child. We are not, nor can be, owned, claimed or bartered over like cattle in the yards.
And certainly it must be said that whether prince or pauper, we are not an Entitlement.
What we are not, though pertinent is not at all that which I seek to be made clear. Most importantly and above all else is what we /are/.
We are artisans in all that we do, and our service to the Compact is one I see as an esteemed honour. Yes, our role is certainly and without doubt one of beauty – and those within the city are exquisite, but there is a great well of wisdom in our ranks as well. We are diplomats within the courts; we are skilled teachers, graceful entertainers and passionate artists.
We each have spent the best part of our lives training in one or many facets of the services we provided. We are present to help speak between Houses in need of more social grace when the risk of a duel may be too much. Some of us sing sweeter than a songbird while others could make a poet weep for their turn of phrase.
And of course, we throw the most outrageously divine parties the Compact has ever seen.
Now it is written for the public, clearly and in most delicate script, I feel ignorance on the matter can no longer be claimed.
Written By Calliope
Jan. 27, 2017, 6:30 a.m.(10/10/1005 AR)
I was simply shopping. Granted, it wasn't a nice neighbourhood, but when one requires diverse ingredients, one has to visit strange locations! Uncle would have my hide for going without an escort, but by some strange coincidence, Rainier Ashford was there, and was able to protect me. Once the brawl broke out.
No no, I had nothing to do with it, and was in fact quite able to dodge any of the projectiles thrown my way. But even so, Lord Ashford threw himself in front of me, being hit by a number of tomatoes in the process. Poor man. But so gallant!
The brawl was broken up quite ably by the Guard, whether or not they were the ones to start it. But the anger, oh the anger in that area. Something needs to be done.
No no, I had nothing to do with it, and was in fact quite able to dodge any of the projectiles thrown my way. But even so, Lord Ashford threw himself in front of me, being hit by a number of tomatoes in the process. Poor man. But so gallant!
The brawl was broken up quite ably by the Guard, whether or not they were the ones to start it. But the anger, oh the anger in that area. Something needs to be done.
Written By Silas
Jan. 27, 2017, 3:37 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
I have been told we're being too uptight and hostile and I have been told we're being lazy and not vigilant enough.
Ah, the trials of leadership and the ever-critical eye of the masses.
Ah, the trials of leadership and the ever-critical eye of the masses.
Written By Lazarus
Jan. 27, 2017, 3:02 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
Everyone complaining about the lack of men the Iron Guard has but considering that house had to be clean and at the moment is in the process of restoration, you would think the houses would offer atleast a recruit for them to interview. You know, for the greater good of the wards.
Written By Anze
Jan. 27, 2017, 2:43 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
Someone will die for this. Someone will pay for what happened.
Written By Aislin
Jan. 27, 2017, 2:06 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
Today has been a very strange day.
A disaster, a disappearance, a discovery, a confession.
All of them unconnected, so far as I can tell, but none of them weigh light on the mind. I can't even organize my thoughts enough for a journal on any of them, not yet.
A disaster, a disappearance, a discovery, a confession.
All of them unconnected, so far as I can tell, but none of them weigh light on the mind. I can't even organize my thoughts enough for a journal on any of them, not yet.
Written By Rymarr
Jan. 27, 2017, 1:47 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
To whomever decides to view my journals, read onward with ease and unity in your heart.
Over the course of the last two days, I have received a number of letters offering congratulations. I ask that you do not congratulate me on assuming further duties to His Majesty; do not applaud my working more. From the newly sworn knight of the King's Own to the Lord Commander, our purpose is singular and we perform that duty to King Alaric Grayson IV because it is what is right. Do remember I have not become the Lord Commander of his His Majesty's royal guard yet. I still retain the duties and title of First Captain. Our Lord Commander is still to this point Dame Leona Thrax.
Instead of congratulations directed toward myself, I ask that the next time you encounter a member of the Iron Guard, Knights of Solace, Inquisition, King's Own or any other august body which seeks to protect our Compact that you extend a simple, heartfelt thanks to that individual or group. They work tirelessly in an effort to provide security and peace of mind to those who pursue other interests. In the worst of moments it is not merely their time or energy that is laid on the line in defense of our Compact, but their lives.
I will not shy from the tender topics, nor will I be fearful of discussing them. We have suffered betrayal from within when the former Lord Commander of the Iron Guard sought to assassinate His Majesty's regent, we have witnessed infighting among our own protectors recently, a host of disagreements have sprang up as a result of differing opinions, and much more. Yet we endure. Our actions that can be prevented through alternative forms of expression, must be utilized and the actions of the few do not reflect upon the many. Fighting among ourselves must stop now. It is our unity which gives us strength and which our enemies seek to shatter. We must mend our fractures and endure, together. Not only for the sake of our Compact, but for our very survival.
In Service,
Sir Rymarr Lyonesse
First Captain of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard
10/9/1005 AR
------------------------------------------------------------------------
To the enemies of the Compact and His Majesty, I suspect you will no doubt wish to review the thoughts, journals, and memoirs of the incoming Lord Commander of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard. I address this to you now. Do not allow us to be ambiguous. I am your enemy. I will remain your enemy. Efforts to dissuade me from that will fail. If it is within my power and ability, I will root you out, and I will destroy you. You undoubtedly must ask: why? You threaten the crown which I serve. You would end the life that I am sworn to protect with my own. This makes us enemies. Allow us no delusions: it is my will to wipe you from this world and sunder your machinations, permanently. I appreciate your reading onward and hope that I am able to provide the aforementioned destruction swiftly. Thank you.
Over the course of the last two days, I have received a number of letters offering congratulations. I ask that you do not congratulate me on assuming further duties to His Majesty; do not applaud my working more. From the newly sworn knight of the King's Own to the Lord Commander, our purpose is singular and we perform that duty to King Alaric Grayson IV because it is what is right. Do remember I have not become the Lord Commander of his His Majesty's royal guard yet. I still retain the duties and title of First Captain. Our Lord Commander is still to this point Dame Leona Thrax.
Instead of congratulations directed toward myself, I ask that the next time you encounter a member of the Iron Guard, Knights of Solace, Inquisition, King's Own or any other august body which seeks to protect our Compact that you extend a simple, heartfelt thanks to that individual or group. They work tirelessly in an effort to provide security and peace of mind to those who pursue other interests. In the worst of moments it is not merely their time or energy that is laid on the line in defense of our Compact, but their lives.
I will not shy from the tender topics, nor will I be fearful of discussing them. We have suffered betrayal from within when the former Lord Commander of the Iron Guard sought to assassinate His Majesty's regent, we have witnessed infighting among our own protectors recently, a host of disagreements have sprang up as a result of differing opinions, and much more. Yet we endure. Our actions that can be prevented through alternative forms of expression, must be utilized and the actions of the few do not reflect upon the many. Fighting among ourselves must stop now. It is our unity which gives us strength and which our enemies seek to shatter. We must mend our fractures and endure, together. Not only for the sake of our Compact, but for our very survival.
In Service,
Sir Rymarr Lyonesse
First Captain of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard
10/9/1005 AR
------------------------------------------------------------------------
To the enemies of the Compact and His Majesty, I suspect you will no doubt wish to review the thoughts, journals, and memoirs of the incoming Lord Commander of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard. I address this to you now. Do not allow us to be ambiguous. I am your enemy. I will remain your enemy. Efforts to dissuade me from that will fail. If it is within my power and ability, I will root you out, and I will destroy you. You undoubtedly must ask: why? You threaten the crown which I serve. You would end the life that I am sworn to protect with my own. This makes us enemies. Allow us no delusions: it is my will to wipe you from this world and sunder your machinations, permanently. I appreciate your reading onward and hope that I am able to provide the aforementioned destruction swiftly. Thank you.
Written By Serafine
Jan. 27, 2017, 1:25 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
My cousin is missing and my head is a mess, and while I'm finding solace in the beautiful woman I call mine, word reached me that there was a fuss in the Commons.
So I pull on my boots and steal a kiss and hop out the door, and soon-
-I find myself facing of a pair of knife-wielding women with one that I'm certain was certifiable and the other just plain angry.
Thankfully, dispatching them without hurting them (does a conk on the head count? They were breathing and everything and I'm pretty sure they walked away-) was managed, somehow, and I'm left wondering what happens now?
They hate us in the Lower Boroughs, doesn't matter if we be noble-born or not. I'll do as I'm told and follow my orders the best I can (unless a life is on the line and then sod off), but I will say one thing:
The last time I attempted two women at once, I wasn't near as successful.
So I pull on my boots and steal a kiss and hop out the door, and soon-
-I find myself facing of a pair of knife-wielding women with one that I'm certain was certifiable and the other just plain angry.
Thankfully, dispatching them without hurting them (does a conk on the head count? They were breathing and everything and I'm pretty sure they walked away-) was managed, somehow, and I'm left wondering what happens now?
They hate us in the Lower Boroughs, doesn't matter if we be noble-born or not. I'll do as I'm told and follow my orders the best I can (unless a life is on the line and then sod off), but I will say one thing:
The last time I attempted two women at once, I wasn't near as successful.
Written By Isolde
Jan. 27, 2017, 1:14 a.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
I love you. Wherever you are, I love you. I don't know if you ever believed that, but in the sight of gods and men... I love you. Wherever you are, we'll find out. We have to.
Written By Merek
Jan. 26, 2017, 11:47 p.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Serafine
I think that the woman is wonderful, and has a beauty all her own, in some manner. We were both involved in the brawl at the Commons. I am glad she is alright, as well as the other Guards which were there.
Written By Merek
Jan. 26, 2017, 11:43 p.m.(10/9/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
My new boss, and someone who I think will be able to help me on my path as a Guardsman. So far he does not seem to dislike me, even if I am not the wisest when it comes to my actions. But I do try my best.
Written By Merek
Jan. 26, 2017, 8:30 p.m.(10/8/1005 AR)
I joined up with the Iron Guard today. I was already seeking them out, but then the proclamation was made. While a time of this darkness seems to come from all sides, I feel it is best to keep the peace. We must remember that we are all men. From the lowest commoner to the King. I don't need a title or much to benefit others. We all fight the same, we all want to survive. Therefore, I will do what I can to protect others.
Written By Dominique
Jan. 26, 2017, 7:37 p.m.(10/8/1005 AR)
I have very little experience with the sea. Growing up in Blancbier I have more in common with mountains than the beach. We do have some traditions, some simple family traditions. Sea is odd because the tide is stronger than a lake. I almost set the dock on fire by under estimating the tide. I think I figured it out now. I wait until the tide is headed out and a send a wreath of white lilies with candles out to guide Damon home or to peace. Whichever it is. I do this once a week now. Sometimes I can see the candles flicker far off on the moonless nights.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.