Written By Lark
Jan. 1, 2017, 7:48 p.m.(7/18/1005 AR)
A paper has been recently published that might be of note to the socially conscious and/or politically inclined entitled 'The Progressive Progress of Princess Lark Grayson's Civil Development Ministry.' It is written in a precise, flowing, almost delicate hand, and attributed to one 'Jeremiah Arvani,' dated 7/10/1005 AR. Despite the sometimes-dry topic of law and economics, the twenty-page paper is easily readable, breaking down the activities, intents, and means of the Ministry of Civil Development. it dispenses of titles after the first introduction and retrospective on the Princess, thereafter referring to her as 'the Minister.' 'The very existence of the Ministry was in doubt by some; under another lead, perhaps, the organization might have done more harm than good, as sometimes charitable endeavors to; the Minister has effectively proven through leadership that any such criticisms were unfounded. The Crown and the Minister and the Compact are all three well-represented by the designed policies, and meaningful work is already underway.'
The first five pages are devoted to the creation of the Ministry and the Minister's history, in near-equal measure; after, policy is examined on both a legal and economic standpoint, consuming the next ten pages. Where there is praise, it is not ubiquitous, and where there is need for reform, it is gentle and guiding rather than scathing, the author's position one of subtle change rather than sweeping revolution.
The final five pages are devoted to the future--where the Ministry may develop, what organizations it might need--supposition and conjecture, or perhaps advice, both concerning a bright future and in the face of economic downturn or war.
The first five pages are devoted to the creation of the Ministry and the Minister's history, in near-equal measure; after, policy is examined on both a legal and economic standpoint, consuming the next ten pages. Where there is praise, it is not ubiquitous, and where there is need for reform, it is gentle and guiding rather than scathing, the author's position one of subtle change rather than sweeping revolution.
The final five pages are devoted to the future--where the Ministry may develop, what organizations it might need--supposition and conjecture, or perhaps advice, both concerning a bright future and in the face of economic downturn or war.
Written By Darren
Jan. 1, 2017, 7:44 p.m.(7/18/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Prince Edain of House Valardin is becoming a fond friend and a good drinking partner. Sure, he drinks brandy rather than whiskey - but I found something he drinks! So I consider that a success.
Written By Isolde
Jan. 1, 2017, 7:40 p.m.(7/18/1005 AR)
To sleep, perchance to dream?
And since you know you cannot see yourself,
so well as by reflection, I, your glass,
Will modestly discover yourself,
that of yourself which you yet know not of.
And since you know you cannot see yourself,
so well as by reflection, I, your glass,
Will modestly discover yourself,
that of yourself which you yet know not of.
Written By Dominic
Jan. 1, 2017, 7:34 p.m.(7/18/1005 AR)
Met with Count Quirin, a man who in his youth participated in countless battles towards the shav but now takes command in Arx as it happens to all generals. That is not say that his ability wanes. Escuma, one of our best wood suppliers meets all expectation in the trade. The island is safe, rich, and beautiful. Through his hard work he has ensured his house's place among the Thrax for generations to come. We enjoyed a meal at the Ebb and Flow. Our conversations were to point which I appreciated. He supports my project and I of course support all business coming from Escuma. I do hope business between us continues.
Written By Darren
Jan. 1, 2017, 7:27 p.m.(7/18/1005 AR)
I remember you.
You taught me what it meant to be a man. You taught me to seek respect through actions not words. You showed me that true loyalty came not by demanding it, but by offering your own loyalty first. You reminded me that family should always come first. You taught me that family was far more than blood - that it extended to the whole North, as it should.
I remember you. I remember everything you've taught me, everything you ever said. I only hope that I practice it well.
You taught me what it meant to be a man. You taught me to seek respect through actions not words. You showed me that true loyalty came not by demanding it, but by offering your own loyalty first. You reminded me that family should always come first. You taught me that family was far more than blood - that it extended to the whole North, as it should.
I remember you. I remember everything you've taught me, everything you ever said. I only hope that I practice it well.
Written By Serafine
Jan. 1, 2017, 6:56 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
I have never fussed over my appearance before in my life and here I am, staring at bolts of green fabric, trying to find the right shade from memory, testing how it fits and drapes, because yes, it needs to be right.
Yes, I'm commissioning a dress. From whom, I've no idea yet. Oy, youngin', I do enjoy dresses. Or, I have, I just don't need seven dozen of them. My favorite dress was stolen by my sister but it was a sound argument; blue is more her color than mine.
Know any good clothiers? I could use some help.
Yes, I'm commissioning a dress. From whom, I've no idea yet. Oy, youngin', I do enjoy dresses. Or, I have, I just don't need seven dozen of them. My favorite dress was stolen by my sister but it was a sound argument; blue is more her color than mine.
Know any good clothiers? I could use some help.
Written By Castor
Jan. 1, 2017, 6:46 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Valkieri soundly beats his opponents when sparring. He must be a terror on the battlefield.
Written By Morrighan
Jan. 1, 2017, 6:17 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Drea
Mother Bear never ceases to amaze me - she's wise and fierce, nothing seems to unnerve her. Even standing as strong and firm as an oak, Lady Drea has this poise and elegance that I've yet to see anyone come close to matching. Sometimes she has this ethereal way about her, - it's really fascinating. I simply adore this woman, she's the closest thing to a real Mother I've ever had.
Written By Kima
Jan. 1, 2017, 5:14 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
Today I met with, for the first time, Fortunato Grayhope. We discussed a commission he has received, which, while informative and engaging, was not the sole virtue of the afternoon. He was absolutely nothing like I expected, which I confess I took to be a delight.
Having followed the work he sometimes puts forth within the white journals of Vellichor, I have long found myself an admirer. Thus, it was my great pleasure to host him and see first hand the early stages of one of his projects. In the future, I hope to speak more with him, though not only on the subject of business.
We are each more than our titles, are we not?
Having followed the work he sometimes puts forth within the white journals of Vellichor, I have long found myself an admirer. Thus, it was my great pleasure to host him and see first hand the early stages of one of his projects. In the future, I hope to speak more with him, though not only on the subject of business.
We are each more than our titles, are we not?
Written By Sylvie
Jan. 1, 2017, 4:30 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Gian
A loyal man is hard to come by. Being able to trust that loyalty is even harder still.
I will try. I will also try to be as deserving of it as my father was.
In times of change, an adaptable man is even more valuable. There has been much of that in Gemecitta, and will continue to be more. Much, as well, in the Compact itself.
I will try. I will also try to be as deserving of it as my father was.
In times of change, an adaptable man is even more valuable. There has been much of that in Gemecitta, and will continue to be more. Much, as well, in the Compact itself.
Written By Anze
Jan. 1, 2017, 4:07 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
There is still a ways to go. I can see that every time I lose a fight.
Losing is good, teaches you humility, helps you know where you need to improve. Losing a fight in the training center means you get to walk away. There are a lot of benefits to losing a sparring match.
Still, a long long way to go.
Losing is good, teaches you humility, helps you know where you need to improve. Losing a fight in the training center means you get to walk away. There are a lot of benefits to losing a sparring match.
Still, a long long way to go.
Written By Anze
Jan. 1, 2017, 3:44 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
I've been trying to get a hold of this southerner for weeks now. Finally get around to exchanging messengers with the lady, and I have to say I already think those that recommended me to her certainly seem to be on point.
proper fucking on point.
proper fucking on point.
Written By Leta
Jan. 1, 2017, 3:24 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
I'm sober as a scholar so here's an accounting of things, as I see them, and that's good enough for Vellichor, or so I was told.
Things are going well enough, not counting what's going on beyond the walls. But I'm no knight, and it's none of my affair unless someone is paying.
I found paying work. I've a contract, at least, with the Valorous Few. It'll pay well enough and the Captain seems a reasonable, sensible sort.
Got enough coin to make something of the silk and leather I've bought. Should ask the Captain if we're leaving Arx any time soon, clothes for the north and clothes for the south aren't the same. Armor's armor, but I don't go to the market in steel like some.
I visited my folks, and things seem well enough, or not as bad as they were. I've the Mercier's and their wine to thank for that, I think.
I have been more fortunate on the training fields these days. But now I have work so I should find a proper trainer. There's a lesson in every beating, but I forget a good half of anything I learn at the hands of northern giants and shorter southerners.
There's a woman and my heart's a fool, but they say fools are the happiest of folk.
Written By Leola
Jan. 1, 2017, 3:09 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Things That Happened
- Hana made me a spear. Nature's Strength, she's a beauty. The spear is lovely, strong and firm and powerful. Dante taught me the basics of using her, and I hope to learn more, so as not to be a disgrace when I lead the hunts
- the Lodge proceeds. I'm looking for a good place to build. Lady Niamh gave me permission to build. I'm finding rangers and hunters amongst the city as well as patrons and others who will support us.
- Lady Calypso gave me some armor. It's fitted and smooth. I need to get some matching gauntlets for it. It looks wonderful. Lady Juliet cooed over me the entire time I wore it.
- Saedrus hurt his leg. He looks wonderful injured and languishing. I wanted to brush his hair
- I've finished this bottle of wine and I am so drunk. SO drunk.
- Hana made me a spear. Nature's Strength, she's a beauty. The spear is lovely, strong and firm and powerful. Dante taught me the basics of using her, and I hope to learn more, so as not to be a disgrace when I lead the hunts
- the Lodge proceeds. I'm looking for a good place to build. Lady Niamh gave me permission to build. I'm finding rangers and hunters amongst the city as well as patrons and others who will support us.
- Lady Calypso gave me some armor. It's fitted and smooth. I need to get some matching gauntlets for it. It looks wonderful. Lady Juliet cooed over me the entire time I wore it.
- Saedrus hurt his leg. He looks wonderful injured and languishing. I wanted to brush his hair
- I've finished this bottle of wine and I am so drunk. SO drunk.
Written By Percephon
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:51 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
It has been a whirlwind of information the past handful of days, and so many memorable people I've gotten to meet -- or to be reunited with. While part of me brims with enthusiasm at the nearly limitless possibilities of being in this ancient city, filled with people with such different cultures, another part of me knows what is ahead of us appears like dark storm clouds on the horizon.
I must strive not to let myself get overly distracted by one or two things and people that keep gnawing at my curiosity, though I know I will be unable to resist. My focus must be sharp over the coming weeks in my research, and I look forward to the trip that is planned.
I must strive not to let myself get overly distracted by one or two things and people that keep gnawing at my curiosity, though I know I will be unable to resist. My focus must be sharp over the coming weeks in my research, and I look forward to the trip that is planned.
Written By Leola
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:39 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Business this week
- Looked at the mews for His Highness Edain. They're good enough, and he has a very impressive owl, Roland. Gave Roland some training in not eating Edain's ears. Not sure if I got paid for that. Must check. I was too busy sniggering.
- Trained a lovely hound called Alejandra for Prince Ainsley. Got paid five thousand silver and ten thousand's worth of military backing for pushing her training a little further than most. She'll be a good hound for a patrolling prince.
- Brier is coming along wonderfully. She's much faster, now! I really think her conditioning is paying off
- Looked at the mews for His Highness Edain. They're good enough, and he has a very impressive owl, Roland. Gave Roland some training in not eating Edain's ears. Not sure if I got paid for that. Must check. I was too busy sniggering.
- Trained a lovely hound called Alejandra for Prince Ainsley. Got paid five thousand silver and ten thousand's worth of military backing for pushing her training a little further than most. She'll be a good hound for a patrolling prince.
- Brier is coming along wonderfully. She's much faster, now! I really think her conditioning is paying off
Written By Cara
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:15 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
I am not comfortable sitting in a chair that once held Queen Alarice's bottom. I am certain the cushions are new, but nevertheless, it is a weighty thing to imagine; even in my capacity as a 'fill-in' Voice, I have a great responsibility to assist the House and to offer what guidance I can -- when the requests and tasks I deal with are simple and small, things like allocation of funds for the family or purchasing of goods for the households, it is no great trial. I've stood as chatelaine before, of course. But in larger things, such as managing and choosing when to ready armed response to potential threats, I am much less experienced. I can only pray to the Gods and seek the counsel of wiser and more experienced leaders, that I may make the right decisions and in so doing, protect the lives of those whose charge has been given to me.
Gods, I hope I do not foul it all up.
Gods, I hope I do not foul it all up.
Written By Cara
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:10 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Killian
I wasn't sure what to think when Killian arrived in the city; his brother, my late husband, was a very different sort of man and not at all in a good way. But Lord Killian has surprised me by being thoughtful, kind, and devoted to his family. He is good company and I am glad to have his help and friendship in these challenging of days. I often wish things were different, but I am glad that I can call him family.
Written By Victus
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:02 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Erlend came with my first command. He was a veteran even back then. There were a dozen different stories about how he'd lost his eye, one more outrageous than the next, and I never learned which one was true.
He didn't much like being stuck taking orders from a bastard ten years his junior. Of all the men in that company, I swear he was the hardest one to win over. My first instinct was to kill him and throw him overboard, but I'm glad I didn't. I'm glad I took the time listen to him, to learn from him, and then to earn his respect and not just his fear. Mostly because Erlend never feared anything, and he might've gutted me just as easily as I might've gutted him.
Erlend wasn't a man you liked. He had a temper and he drank too fucking much, and when he drank he became as mean a man as I've ever known. There's a reason his wife left him for that fat Lycene merchant out of Tor. Even he didn't blame her, except when he was drunk. Then he blamed everybody for everything.
No, you didn't like Erlend. But you could respect and honor him. He had three traits that outweighed all of his deficiencies:
He knew how to fight.
He never showed an ounce of cowardice.
He was absolutely loyal.
So to you, Erlend. May the next stage be of less drink and more fucking happiness.
He didn't much like being stuck taking orders from a bastard ten years his junior. Of all the men in that company, I swear he was the hardest one to win over. My first instinct was to kill him and throw him overboard, but I'm glad I didn't. I'm glad I took the time listen to him, to learn from him, and then to earn his respect and not just his fear. Mostly because Erlend never feared anything, and he might've gutted me just as easily as I might've gutted him.
Erlend wasn't a man you liked. He had a temper and he drank too fucking much, and when he drank he became as mean a man as I've ever known. There's a reason his wife left him for that fat Lycene merchant out of Tor. Even he didn't blame her, except when he was drunk. Then he blamed everybody for everything.
No, you didn't like Erlend. But you could respect and honor him. He had three traits that outweighed all of his deficiencies:
He knew how to fight.
He never showed an ounce of cowardice.
He was absolutely loyal.
So to you, Erlend. May the next stage be of less drink and more fucking happiness.
Written By Rowan
Jan. 1, 2017, 2:01 p.m.(7/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
Here, try this, she says.
Why the fuck not, says I.
Come swim with us, says the mermaids.
Life's a shit show since the wife left, says Brother Mog the Sea Cow.
I woke up with a seagull trying to take strands of my beard and strange words in my head. Last night I learned: Beware accepting candy from Lycenes.
Why the fuck not, says I.
Come swim with us, says the mermaids.
Life's a shit show since the wife left, says Brother Mog the Sea Cow.
I woke up with a seagull trying to take strands of my beard and strange words in my head. Last night I learned: Beware accepting candy from Lycenes.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.