Written By Castor
Jan. 8, 2017, 5:36 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
The Ambassador Salon is....blessed by the Vellichor as a safe place to speak of all the evils that now plague our lands.
Written By Max
Jan. 8, 2017, 5:30 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
"Good Job."
I can honestly say I have never been more proud to receive such a simple compliment.
When Prince Donrai Thrax says 'Good Job'... You know you have done well.
I can honestly say I have never been more proud to receive such a simple compliment.
When Prince Donrai Thrax says 'Good Job'... You know you have done well.
Written By Tristram
Jan. 8, 2017, 5:09 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
I find myself becoming quite attracted to several different ladies in this city. I wonder how long it will take Edain to bring up the topic of marriage with me; I'd prefer for any future seductions on my part to have a serious exploration of an end-goal in mind instead of a dalliance. Not that I have anything against dalliances. Hardly so; I would marry all three of them, were it up to me alone--and of course, if I could convince them that such an arrangement would be enjoyable. Nor would I object to their taking other partners. This is not the usual means by which these things go, but in my time in the villages and towns of Arvum I have found that there are many ways that people look at love. Of them all, my favorite is the one where the lovers are bound in love to one another--but are not restricted from finding love with others, as well, in honest and open companionship; my honor prevents me from adultery and cheating, but my heart is open to many. Though I doubt I will find such a thing in my lifetime. Too many believe that there is only one bond to be had, and grow jealous. We shall see.
Written By Isolde
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:56 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Today I made Talen his favorite tea. I hope he likes it!
Written By Dawn
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
I've burned a lot of bridges this week. For those I've hurt and angered, I'm sorry. It is true, I would rather people suffer with the effects of my abdication while -living- than to see everything and everyone die. I know there will be suffering as the Regent Council steps into the place I held. I know that there is fear, confusion, anger, a lack of clear direction. I know all of this, and I choose my course in spite of it, because in my heart of hearts, I think we all die if I don't.
Yes, I barred others from making this choice, and removed from them the opportunity to decide for themselves. This is both arrogance and abuse of power, and I accept that charge. If I live, I'll live with that weight along with all the rest, for however many days I have.
For those who feel that I condemn the world or the Compact to some worse fate by doing as I do, I can only say... the days to come will show the truth of the matter, and if I am wrong, then I pray the gods judge me harshly for it. If I am wrong and I live? Then I will accept whatever punishment comes to me for my actions.
You have every right to be angry. I understand.
In the event of my death, I publicly declare that I release the contents of my black reflections, save for any that the High Lord of Grayson deems too sensitive. You will know which I mean, cousin, when you look through my writing. I wish that I had had more time to record every thought, every lesson learned, every seed of every threat, every scrap... I tried to share them where I could, spread them to those who could and would help. It wasn't enough. There is never enough time. But I leave them in your keeping and I trust that you will use what I did record wisely.
In the event of my death, I ask that Grayson support the families of the men and women who go with me, to lay their lives upon an altar in the defense of the Compact they have sworn to protect. I also ask that Grayson receive the silver in my bank account, and that they put it towards both our defense and the creation of an additional hall in the Hall of Heroes for those same men and women. They are heroes, every one of them, and deserve that recognition, whatever others may think and feel about me.
To those who shared my heart, and my thoughts, who spent those rare and precious quiet moments with me, who steadied me on the path I was called to walk, who supported and cared and who suffer for my actions now... I am sorry. It isn't enough. I wasn't enough. If there are other lives after this one, if we are so fortunate as to be allowed another turn on the wheel, I go from Arx praying that this life and the next bring you all of the happiness you deserve.
Gods bless and keep you.
With respect,
Dawn
Yes, I barred others from making this choice, and removed from them the opportunity to decide for themselves. This is both arrogance and abuse of power, and I accept that charge. If I live, I'll live with that weight along with all the rest, for however many days I have.
For those who feel that I condemn the world or the Compact to some worse fate by doing as I do, I can only say... the days to come will show the truth of the matter, and if I am wrong, then I pray the gods judge me harshly for it. If I am wrong and I live? Then I will accept whatever punishment comes to me for my actions.
You have every right to be angry. I understand.
In the event of my death, I publicly declare that I release the contents of my black reflections, save for any that the High Lord of Grayson deems too sensitive. You will know which I mean, cousin, when you look through my writing. I wish that I had had more time to record every thought, every lesson learned, every seed of every threat, every scrap... I tried to share them where I could, spread them to those who could and would help. It wasn't enough. There is never enough time. But I leave them in your keeping and I trust that you will use what I did record wisely.
In the event of my death, I ask that Grayson support the families of the men and women who go with me, to lay their lives upon an altar in the defense of the Compact they have sworn to protect. I also ask that Grayson receive the silver in my bank account, and that they put it towards both our defense and the creation of an additional hall in the Hall of Heroes for those same men and women. They are heroes, every one of them, and deserve that recognition, whatever others may think and feel about me.
To those who shared my heart, and my thoughts, who spent those rare and precious quiet moments with me, who steadied me on the path I was called to walk, who supported and cared and who suffer for my actions now... I am sorry. It isn't enough. I wasn't enough. If there are other lives after this one, if we are so fortunate as to be allowed another turn on the wheel, I go from Arx praying that this life and the next bring you all of the happiness you deserve.
Gods bless and keep you.
With respect,
Dawn
Written By Hadrian
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:54 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Duchess Belladonna's birthday! I love parties, it is perhaps the dangerous combination of alcohol, new faces, and the generally upbeat atmosphere; everybody is happy, nobody seems to worry, and it's an energy that I feel most comfortable in. Merry people make merry conversation, faces have smiles, and people fawn over each other after a distant, long absence -parties are delightful.
This one was not. I had some earrings made, thought I was clever, Joboo and I arrived at their estate. Pravus has been our ally for a long, long time. I'm not certain what changed. When I returned we greeted one another like old friends, but now she greets me like a lepered stranger. I could feel Valkieri's scowl on me -not sure what that was about, either, I thought we got along fairly well at the dinner. Lady Lianne was there! I enjoyed her company in our previous meetings, but she was quickly drowned by throngs of men that I had no interest in causing them to join Valkieri in scowling.
Calypso's method of a letter was better, in retrospect. She could not attend though I asked her, but it may have been fortuitous. The striking change in welcome causes doubt in the strength of our alliance, and my lack of sleep has not at all helped. Paranoid, I'm told, but I am well aware of these nobles that will stab me while smiling. I'm not concerned; the roles we play are vital. If I am to he cast as the wicked Duke, I will play my part perfectly. I may just have fun doing so.
This one was not. I had some earrings made, thought I was clever, Joboo and I arrived at their estate. Pravus has been our ally for a long, long time. I'm not certain what changed. When I returned we greeted one another like old friends, but now she greets me like a lepered stranger. I could feel Valkieri's scowl on me -not sure what that was about, either, I thought we got along fairly well at the dinner. Lady Lianne was there! I enjoyed her company in our previous meetings, but she was quickly drowned by throngs of men that I had no interest in causing them to join Valkieri in scowling.
Calypso's method of a letter was better, in retrospect. She could not attend though I asked her, but it may have been fortuitous. The striking change in welcome causes doubt in the strength of our alliance, and my lack of sleep has not at all helped. Paranoid, I'm told, but I am well aware of these nobles that will stab me while smiling. I'm not concerned; the roles we play are vital. If I am to he cast as the wicked Duke, I will play my part perfectly. I may just have fun doing so.
Written By Cara
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:18 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Dawn -- and I'll not call her anything less than that, no matter who might say otherwise -- is a woman of surpassing bravery, kindness, and compassion. She has without fail sacrificed for the people Arvum, daily, though I am certain that those who have never born responsibility for the lives of others would only imagine privilege. I, who have some small inkling of what her calendar entailed, understand otherwise.
She slept but little, staying awake until the deep hours of the night reading missives for the Crown, writing message after message. She rose early, having meeting after meeting regarding concerns from not only High Lords but lesser nobility and commoners, too. She took barely a breath for her own delight or comfort, instead working herself near to exhaustion that the rest of the Compact might have what peace and prosperity was possible.
And she did so while grieving deeply for her brother, trapped in his twilight state.
She is a wonderful woman, and I am proud beyond belief to call her my friend.
She slept but little, staying awake until the deep hours of the night reading missives for the Crown, writing message after message. She rose early, having meeting after meeting regarding concerns from not only High Lords but lesser nobility and commoners, too. She took barely a breath for her own delight or comfort, instead working herself near to exhaustion that the rest of the Compact might have what peace and prosperity was possible.
And she did so while grieving deeply for her brother, trapped in his twilight state.
She is a wonderful woman, and I am proud beyond belief to call her my friend.
Written By Sylvie
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:13 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
I have found a singular person in the Compact that sees the world exactly as I do, it seems. I feel I may call her a friend, but it is more than friendship. To find someone that you can work with so closely, that you can share your every thought with, because they already know it?
No, it's something else. I am glad to call her a friend as well, however. I hope that we can always work together for the betterment of the Lyceum and the Compact.
No, it's something else. I am glad to call her a friend as well, however. I hope that we can always work together for the betterment of the Lyceum and the Compact.
Written By Brogan
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:07 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
The world's gone a bit mad of late, by all accounts. All the more reason to drink deep, and enjoy the present, rather than fear the future.
Written By Brogan
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:05 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Aleksei
You don't often meet a knighted man who's sword stays sheathed when insult is offered, much less one as seemingly accustomed to throwing fists instead of flowery prose. I shall have to find some work for the man.
Written By Valencia
Jan. 8, 2017, 4:03 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Finally, a much wanted and long awaited respite from mutual hostility and hopefully the beginning of a lasting peace was struck between myself and she who has called me enemy.
The agreement as it stands will last at least until our mutual enemy has been defeated.
With hope, bonds and mutual respect will blossom and perhaps a lasting peace will be born of this. I am cautiously optimistic.
I pray that others will see fit to do the same so we can be a united city. Our enemy is at the gate if not already inside, and we do not have the luxury of time to be hateful to each other.
Gods above and below, please help us see our way before its too late.
~~~<~<@
The agreement as it stands will last at least until our mutual enemy has been defeated.
With hope, bonds and mutual respect will blossom and perhaps a lasting peace will be born of this. I am cautiously optimistic.
I pray that others will see fit to do the same so we can be a united city. Our enemy is at the gate if not already inside, and we do not have the luxury of time to be hateful to each other.
Gods above and below, please help us see our way before its too late.
~~~<~<@
Written By Darrow
Jan. 8, 2017, 3:57 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Jasher
I remember him from my time as a ward in Maelstrom.
He has...he remembers the Lament, as well, and the Weeping Isle. My father's keep.
He has...he remembers the Lament, as well, and the Weeping Isle. My father's keep.
Written By Felix
Jan. 8, 2017, 3:38 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Cassius
He's a good, trustworthy man. I would be confident putting my life in his hands.
Written By Leola
Jan. 8, 2017, 2:36 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
The Great Escape
- the animals burst from the Menagerie. Lady General Calypso was pleased to allow me, as the first spear of the Lodge, to lead efforts in retrieving and saving them. I personally returned the great white bear to the cages, and assisted many others in handling the animals. Hopefully, this will do much to improve the standing of Petrichor's Lodge.
Stepping Down
- The Lady Regent stepped down, and left, to do what she felt was right. As much as that was denied myself, by her and the former Baron, I might profit by following her example.
- the animals burst from the Menagerie. Lady General Calypso was pleased to allow me, as the first spear of the Lodge, to lead efforts in retrieving and saving them. I personally returned the great white bear to the cages, and assisted many others in handling the animals. Hopefully, this will do much to improve the standing of Petrichor's Lodge.
Stepping Down
- The Lady Regent stepped down, and left, to do what she felt was right. As much as that was denied myself, by her and the former Baron, I might profit by following her example.
Written By Larissa
Jan. 8, 2017, 2:23 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Brogan
Another of the Nightgolds I am utterly enamored with. An older gentleman more inclined to drink from the bottle than a glass. A laugh and a smile never seems too far from his lips and I'd hope to spend more evenings in his company again.
Written By Larissa
Jan. 8, 2017, 2:21 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Sigurd
A chance meeting with he and his Uncle at the Salon had me completely and utterly charmed. Yet another reason to fall absolutely in love with the Nightgold family.
Written By Eirene
Jan. 8, 2017, 2:04 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
Smarter than she looks, and she looks very damn good. A newfound appreciation for her above and beyond flirtation and good alcohol.
Written By Sigurd
Jan. 8, 2017, 1:57 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
As I sit here, surrounded by missives and reports and proclamations of these dire events, and all the myriad of things people have to say about them, I worry that /this/ is the danger of our new system.
Too many voices. Too many voices, all with more voices in their ears. A multitude of different aims and different goals. Oh, perhaps the same overarching states goal: to save Arx and Arvum. But the idea for '/how/ to do that? We are of as many minds as there are stars in the sky.
It is the enemy of progress. I only hope that our esteemed leaders realize this and can be strong. especially now.
Too many voices. Too many voices, all with more voices in their ears. A multitude of different aims and different goals. Oh, perhaps the same overarching states goal: to save Arx and Arvum. But the idea for '/how/ to do that? We are of as many minds as there are stars in the sky.
It is the enemy of progress. I only hope that our esteemed leaders realize this and can be strong. especially now.
Written By Darrow
Jan. 8, 2017, 1:36 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
Thirteen.
Thirteen gods, thirteen sacrifices. I have killed - put down, a dozen of Thrax men, pirates, their minds poisoned. In one single battle - a slaughter. The crews, put to death, and their boats scuttled.
My sword a cut down a drop in the tide of blood we saw spilled. Agents of these Stewards, of those Houses, of whomever we face - the Silence, murdered hundreds and left as many more mindless. Chattel to be executed.
And these bickerers bemoan the loss of a family member, of thirteen men and women? Against the chance of stopping a such greater toll? It is a grain of sand against an ocean. Two crossmarks on a page. The number of a small fishing family.
Death is what awaits us all - all we walk is our journey to the place behind the mirror.
My sisters, my brothers - died upon crosses, sacrificed for vengeance and greed by the Tydes.
I suppose they should feel lucky that there are at least thirteen who think there is aught worth saving in the Compact...
Thirteen gods, thirteen sacrifices. I have killed - put down, a dozen of Thrax men, pirates, their minds poisoned. In one single battle - a slaughter. The crews, put to death, and their boats scuttled.
My sword a cut down a drop in the tide of blood we saw spilled. Agents of these Stewards, of those Houses, of whomever we face - the Silence, murdered hundreds and left as many more mindless. Chattel to be executed.
And these bickerers bemoan the loss of a family member, of thirteen men and women? Against the chance of stopping a such greater toll? It is a grain of sand against an ocean. Two crossmarks on a page. The number of a small fishing family.
Death is what awaits us all - all we walk is our journey to the place behind the mirror.
My sisters, my brothers - died upon crosses, sacrificed for vengeance and greed by the Tydes.
I suppose they should feel lucky that there are at least thirteen who think there is aught worth saving in the Compact...
Written By Bethany
Jan. 8, 2017, 1:17 p.m.(8/10/1005 AR)
[ The following letter has been added to the Archive in place of an entry. It is written in overly-meticulous script, blocky: ]
Dear Father and Mother,
It has been some time since I penned a letter, and even longer since I left the city to visit the Vale and more specifically, the Estate. I hope that you are both well, and keeping safe with the Guard that Lazarus sent over. Between us, I know that Lord Tobias is honorable - despite the betrayal of the former Lord Commander, Everard. It was a shrewd decision that Lazarus made, securing those forces, and I hope that you will understand why considering our enemies and the devastation that follows in their wake.
Certainly, you have been given news of the events as they unfolded at the most recent Assembly of Peers - so, I will avoid the reiteration of thoughts and opinions that are possibly best kept to myself (and out of this letter.) Otherwise, I know, that Father will send me a lengthy response and will refer to papers and texts that I should possibly read.
Also, please remind Father that he should remain seated for the following: yes, I have accepted new employment. I have gained so much more momentum beyond those days of that pianoforte performance that impressed the Lady Alarys so - (as I told Silas moments after I sent in my resignation) - my ambitions have outgrown the position. I have a patron, now, and the freedom to pursue my own interests. I know that you both wanted more for me, a higher place in society, and I understood your reasons for doing so were for the betterment of our family.
Ultimately, everything is for the advancement for the family. There are times, in fits of pique, that I utterly resent you for it. Other times, when my heart swells with so much emotion that I could burst from gratitude for it. I suppose that is the strange and complicated relationship between a child and their parents. Moving forward, I take steps toward my advancement - for which I hope you will not begrudge me for. I shall always strive to have you be proud of me in word and deed.
(There is more, Mother, but I will detail the more personal news to you in another letter.)
Of course, despite all threats, I am hopeful that the season will be a fruitful one for us. I will organize to make a visit in the early autumn to assist with the harvest and with the seasonal accounts.
Always, your youngest,
Beth
Dear Father and Mother,
It has been some time since I penned a letter, and even longer since I left the city to visit the Vale and more specifically, the Estate. I hope that you are both well, and keeping safe with the Guard that Lazarus sent over. Between us, I know that Lord Tobias is honorable - despite the betrayal of the former Lord Commander, Everard. It was a shrewd decision that Lazarus made, securing those forces, and I hope that you will understand why considering our enemies and the devastation that follows in their wake.
Certainly, you have been given news of the events as they unfolded at the most recent Assembly of Peers - so, I will avoid the reiteration of thoughts and opinions that are possibly best kept to myself (and out of this letter.) Otherwise, I know, that Father will send me a lengthy response and will refer to papers and texts that I should possibly read.
Also, please remind Father that he should remain seated for the following: yes, I have accepted new employment. I have gained so much more momentum beyond those days of that pianoforte performance that impressed the Lady Alarys so - (as I told Silas moments after I sent in my resignation) - my ambitions have outgrown the position. I have a patron, now, and the freedom to pursue my own interests. I know that you both wanted more for me, a higher place in society, and I understood your reasons for doing so were for the betterment of our family.
Ultimately, everything is for the advancement for the family. There are times, in fits of pique, that I utterly resent you for it. Other times, when my heart swells with so much emotion that I could burst from gratitude for it. I suppose that is the strange and complicated relationship between a child and their parents. Moving forward, I take steps toward my advancement - for which I hope you will not begrudge me for. I shall always strive to have you be proud of me in word and deed.
(There is more, Mother, but I will detail the more personal news to you in another letter.)
Of course, despite all threats, I am hopeful that the season will be a fruitful one for us. I will organize to make a visit in the early autumn to assist with the harvest and with the seasonal accounts.
Always, your youngest,
Beth
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.