Written By Harald
Jan. 25, 2017, 1:55 p.m.(10/5/1005 AR)
It seems the Bringers south of Arx are moving to join their strength with the northern host near Pridehall, relieving pressure on the Ashford borders. A pity, foes divided make easier marks. Instead, we may have one of these great set-piece battles the mainland knights so love.
All speak with great reverence for this Gabriel Bisland, Duke of Pridehall and general of the Compact. I expect he is a master of knightly warfare, of flanks, charges, and logistics; of moving pieces as if on the chessboard.
I wonder if he is more than that. I look forward to seeing his quality.
Great battles make for pretty stories and famous songs, but there is little middle ground in a lost battle. To hazard all on a single clash of arms is brave, but dangerous.
There are few knights and fewer cavaliers in the Mourning Isles. Our way of war is not a cult of chivalry, but a cult of victory. Whether the foe is broken in single combat or by starvation after his fields were burnt matters little. When the clearest path to victory is a charge, there is no blood-mad berserk or gallant knight who will howl into the melee with more spirit than we. There is no fear of death in battle among us, but woe to he that spends his strength poorly.
The knight's lance, the reaver's torch, the traitor's knife: all are weapons that will be cast at the unwary. Still, I haven't grown so old that all of the luster has faded from the direct honesty of a headlong, howling charge to sieze victory with a bloody fist.
Gods favor the brave.
All speak with great reverence for this Gabriel Bisland, Duke of Pridehall and general of the Compact. I expect he is a master of knightly warfare, of flanks, charges, and logistics; of moving pieces as if on the chessboard.
I wonder if he is more than that. I look forward to seeing his quality.
Great battles make for pretty stories and famous songs, but there is little middle ground in a lost battle. To hazard all on a single clash of arms is brave, but dangerous.
There are few knights and fewer cavaliers in the Mourning Isles. Our way of war is not a cult of chivalry, but a cult of victory. Whether the foe is broken in single combat or by starvation after his fields were burnt matters little. When the clearest path to victory is a charge, there is no blood-mad berserk or gallant knight who will howl into the melee with more spirit than we. There is no fear of death in battle among us, but woe to he that spends his strength poorly.
The knight's lance, the reaver's torch, the traitor's knife: all are weapons that will be cast at the unwary. Still, I haven't grown so old that all of the luster has faded from the direct honesty of a headlong, howling charge to sieze victory with a bloody fist.
Gods favor the brave.
Written By Niamh
Jan. 25, 2017, 11:53 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Lydia
Such a sweet and caring young woman. She certainly stands out at the Guild Hall, but it would be a true sadness if she weren't there.
Written By Niamh
Jan. 25, 2017, 11:45 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Cicero
Prince Cicero held up through quite a few rounds, with an audience. He is progressing quite well with a blade.
Written By Merek
Jan. 25, 2017, 9:51 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
I went to the Vigil of Sentinel. It was a curious affair, and I learned much that I did not know. I also saw the one called Dawn, who seems to be involved in a lot of the recent business. I made a nice donation when the Vigil was complete, and I hope to meet more of the Faith while I am within Arx.
Written By Angelo
Jan. 25, 2017, 9:09 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
Truth be told, when waves hit hard, they retreat further. A long winter precedes a strong summer. Today's morning light is almost blindingly strong against my window. I feel good today.
Written By Calliope
Jan. 25, 2017, 9:05 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
An interesting day, my trip to the Ebb and Flow killed two birds with one stone. Well, two tasks with one trip, no birds were killed and if they were, I hardly think I'd be able to knock out Lord Victus with a stone. More likely the other way round, the stone would be knocked out? In any case, his presence made the delivery of my supplies go far more smoothly, and also presented a new challenge.
And a wager of sorts! I do so love a challenge, just for challenge's sake, but extra prizes are never remiss.
I will start my investigations as soon as I get home! Surely someone knows something, and I'll be able to ask the right questions. We shall see. It may not be a short task, but I will unravel this knotted riddle.
And a wager of sorts! I do so love a challenge, just for challenge's sake, but extra prizes are never remiss.
I will start my investigations as soon as I get home! Surely someone knows something, and I'll be able to ask the right questions. We shall see. It may not be a short task, but I will unravel this knotted riddle.
Written By Julea
Jan. 25, 2017, 8:55 a.m.(10/4/1005 AR)
It waz't exatlcy a gowod week. al-in-hall it was pretly horrid wek tha onleah hihlight receicving the ralofl crawn xiat thpe femstival off comons. i worurld oobf iklfed tio of stayd longa, nvazd got tha chncea tvo jnio izn okn soem of it. Bat a probhem athe fotrge meaent I hade to xit earleir thane I wantnad to. Baut friome what I herd it wans ae scusesc, aned it waps so ogod to here so v manie people cumeing togeetshr for a byt off lighthetadreness enterttntirnment.
i havce never ben goud weth peaple. I ca't thell the differendce betweene sometonoe wheo cairs four me, ande someeone who is usin me. I do knot now whai some of ny jocks ffall flat and leaf evewyone seajng dapggers, and others have everome leughjng a long. I am terrbile at contaenimg mg emotions, and composiny myself. So it waes with grekat restreint thah I dide note senod my fist into thae nocse of saome silk that cauled me a 'faucking ididot' and hiumiiliated me in frawnt of a lot of importhant peeples. I sew badle wanad to breek heis nose. It wazn't easie thougrh and trid to eixt mvhte rooxm to ayvoid ijt. I waz ged.
I imaigihne thaet's the Redraen's way of weelcuming me back, ipt is neice to fveel so loveltvd.
i havce never ben goud weth peaple. I ca't thell the differendce betweene sometonoe wheo cairs four me, ande someeone who is usin me. I do knot now whai some of ny jocks ffall flat and leaf evewyone seajng dapggers, and others have everome leughjng a long. I am terrbile at contaenimg mg emotions, and composiny myself. So it waes with grekat restreint thah I dide note senod my fist into thae nocse of saome silk that cauled me a 'faucking ididot' and hiumiiliated me in frawnt of a lot of importhant peeples. I sew badle wanad to breek heis nose. It wazn't easie thougrh and trid to eixt mvhte rooxm to ayvoid ijt. I waz ged.
I imaigihne thaet's the Redraen's way of weelcuming me back, ipt is neice to fveel so loveltvd.
Written By Selene
Jan. 25, 2017, 4:39 a.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Calandra
Darling Calandra was as lovely as ever, and the Festival was a delight, to see the king and queen crowned and the cheer of the people. My only regret is that I were unable to linger long, but my dear Whisper scarsely had need of me, the way her attention was being vyed for. She is a well liked woman and a fine addition to my house and home.
Written By Angelo
Jan. 25, 2017, 4:04 a.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Iona
The Duchess Iona has been most pleasant to meet -- as has been her family. We agreed to export some of the goods of our markets in Tor to Pridehall and have those markets buy some lumber from them in exchange. I look forward to this agreement working out: I admit myself excited.
Written By Calista
Jan. 25, 2017, 2:41 a.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Ask and you shall receive.
Written By Dagon
Jan. 25, 2017, 12:14 a.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Sophie
I ran into her at Aurum Texts and she was pleasant company.
It seems that every Valardin I've had the pleasure to meet has been rather pleasant company. It gives me hope that Thrax and Valardin can forge a friendship for the future, to help one another stand against what comes and to help the Compact stand against it as well.
It seems that every Valardin I've had the pleasure to meet has been rather pleasant company. It gives me hope that Thrax and Valardin can forge a friendship for the future, to help one another stand against what comes and to help the Compact stand against it as well.
Written By Calypso
Jan. 24, 2017, 11:59 p.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Sigurd
I don't know what it is about Northerners that draws me in so swiftly. Their no nonsense, loyal, passionate demeanor suits me well I suppose.
Lord Sigurd is no different. He was appointed as the Redrain Liaison to the Ministry of Defense before I took the office and I am absolutely delighted by that decision, whoever it was that made it. He has been steadfast in his ability to give me clear, concise information. He has already been a sounding board for me in decisions that must be made. And he is rather pleasant company. I believe he has the makings of a fine commander in battle and I look forward to working with him more closely as time goes on.
Lord Sigurd is no different. He was appointed as the Redrain Liaison to the Ministry of Defense before I took the office and I am absolutely delighted by that decision, whoever it was that made it. He has been steadfast in his ability to give me clear, concise information. He has already been a sounding board for me in decisions that must be made. And he is rather pleasant company. I believe he has the makings of a fine commander in battle and I look forward to working with him more closely as time goes on.
Written By Silas
Jan. 24, 2017, 11:41 p.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
The Festival of Commons was the most fun I've had in a long time - a much-needed break from work.
I intend to make some renovations in the Boroughs which should make things less bleak for those currently in poverty. I have begun to set the groundwork for a free medical clinic in the Commons Square; the building has been built and I have found an aspiring apothecary and medic who has agreed to operate it. Hopefully, with a little nudging, I will also get him involved with the Physicians Guild.
Next on the list: fixing unemployment! And draining the swamp.
I intend to make some renovations in the Boroughs which should make things less bleak for those currently in poverty. I have begun to set the groundwork for a free medical clinic in the Commons Square; the building has been built and I have found an aspiring apothecary and medic who has agreed to operate it. Hopefully, with a little nudging, I will also get him involved with the Physicians Guild.
Next on the list: fixing unemployment! And draining the swamp.
Written By Orazio
Jan. 24, 2017, 11:13 p.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
There are times, dear readers, when the dictates of duty are a burden placed upon undeserving shoulders. We rarely admire those who uphold their oaths and fulfill their obligations without complaint or request for compensation. Many times, we do not even understand how much they have given up in order to do what we have asked.
If there is anything I would ask you all, as children of the gods, to do, it is to look around you and find those in your life who are loyal, who are wise, and who value their families and their liege lords over their own pride or power. When you find those men and women (and I assure you, they are there), take a moment to recognize them, and to reflect on their service. Even a sacrifice made in love is a sacrifice.
In other and more selfish news, I would be most pleased by the Compact, the world, and the gods, if they would grant me just a few days without sorrow, loss, or unpleasant surprises.
If there is anything I would ask you all, as children of the gods, to do, it is to look around you and find those in your life who are loyal, who are wise, and who value their families and their liege lords over their own pride or power. When you find those men and women (and I assure you, they are there), take a moment to recognize them, and to reflect on their service. Even a sacrifice made in love is a sacrifice.
In other and more selfish news, I would be most pleased by the Compact, the world, and the gods, if they would grant me just a few days without sorrow, loss, or unpleasant surprises.
Written By Alis
Jan. 24, 2017, 9:36 p.m.(10/3/1005 AR)
Maple Syrup, Edain? I sincerely hope there are no maple syrup footprints, or handprints, all over the manor. That was quite fun, though! Next time, we should nominate Arn to take your place at the dunking booth. I'm just saying.
"... Can you just make it so -Arn- can't rea.. you can't. Oh, well. Hi Arn!"
"... Can you just make it so -Arn- can't rea.. you can't. Oh, well. Hi Arn!"
Written By Felix
Jan. 24, 2017, 9:26 p.m.(10/2/1005 AR)
Less of a vigil and more of a spectacle. I don't know what I was expecting, but I pray I will find spiritual guidance another day.
Written By Ida
Jan. 24, 2017, 8:17 p.m.(10/2/1005 AR)
Some days, the only thing I get from the forge is frustration and the burning desire to throw things at the walls. Mother eff.
Written By Harald
Jan. 24, 2017, 6:12 p.m.(10/2/1005 AR)
I had nearly forgotten how swift our ships fly up the great rivers of Arvum. One day under oars and it seems half a continent has fallen away. Mangata's waters run deep, the Goddess grants her favored children a long arm.
History tells us of times gone by when the sight of our ships on the Grey River would put fear of sword and torch into the bravest of Forest Lords, when the song of steel was a pitiless dirge to the misfortunes of those who lay before us; where once riches had been won and blood were spilled, the longships would turn their dire prows once more to the waters, before ever foemen could march against us in number.
For so long our race has had only our own as foes. Now the demons stir, the restless dead walk, and dread horrors arise in the Deep. For centuries the sight of our banners was a thing of fear and hate to mainlanders, and it remains so, still. Unity has been a pleasant fiction, painted over the bloody memories of broken and bloody crowns of wars past. When Queen Genevieve fell, I would name 'liar' he who denied dread that another war might have followed. How terrible the foe that would return the ghost of Unity from its ancient grave, now?
How soon can the hearts of men change?
History tells us of times gone by when the sight of our ships on the Grey River would put fear of sword and torch into the bravest of Forest Lords, when the song of steel was a pitiless dirge to the misfortunes of those who lay before us; where once riches had been won and blood were spilled, the longships would turn their dire prows once more to the waters, before ever foemen could march against us in number.
For so long our race has had only our own as foes. Now the demons stir, the restless dead walk, and dread horrors arise in the Deep. For centuries the sight of our banners was a thing of fear and hate to mainlanders, and it remains so, still. Unity has been a pleasant fiction, painted over the bloody memories of broken and bloody crowns of wars past. When Queen Genevieve fell, I would name 'liar' he who denied dread that another war might have followed. How terrible the foe that would return the ghost of Unity from its ancient grave, now?
How soon can the hearts of men change?
Written By Calandra
Jan. 24, 2017, 5:36 p.m.(10/2/1005 AR)
Prince Edain Valardin is setting up a dunking booth for dunking himself at the festival.
Written By Joscelin
Jan. 24, 2017, 1:10 p.m.(10/2/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Felix
I've been under the weather of late, Felix has to make me stay in bed and let him fuss over me.
I woke up to a tray of tea and Setarco Gold and a lovely letter from him.
I'm a lucky woman.
I woke up to a tray of tea and Setarco Gold and a lovely letter from him.
I'm a lucky woman.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.