Written By Isolde
Nov. 27, 2016, 2:05 p.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
Theological Musings.
I've never seen a city so blinded, yet so enlightened. The untapped potential for controlled passions has never been more invigorating, yet the utter denial of such necessities breaks my faithful heart. I learn much, even of my own journey, and the need for the Dark Reflection has never been more acute.
Amongst the Lyceum, the respect and dedication to the Thirteenth has waned. The spirit of the other Houses has always been one of 'ignore and maybe it'll go away,' but the favored people of the Reflection have lost sight of the truth of his word.
Strength comes from embracing the darknesses within us, and using them as tools, rather than denying or even vilifying them. The corruption of the soul comes when that balance falls to one side or the other, for Light blinds, more painfully, and just as much as Darkness. Corruption is not the agency of the Thirteenth, but the bane of it. What strength can there be in a corrupted soul? Onle one honest with themselves and who they truly are can be purified and made whole.
The lessons, skewed and perverted infect all manner of vocation, influential and overlooked alike. Perhaps the animostiy comes from resisting the call of the soul, and the ignorance in what that call means, what it requires. Even in my imperfection, I realize the danger that faces me, whenever I look into the mirror, and it is only through the understanding of the Dark Reflection that I do not fall to that blighted existence.
My prayer to thee, oh Thirteenth of the Completed Pantheon, is to have the understanding embrace all who wish salvation from themselves, and the corrpution they've allowed to blind their hearts and minds. The Compact can stand on no less than whole souls.
I've never seen a city so blinded, yet so enlightened. The untapped potential for controlled passions has never been more invigorating, yet the utter denial of such necessities breaks my faithful heart. I learn much, even of my own journey, and the need for the Dark Reflection has never been more acute.
Amongst the Lyceum, the respect and dedication to the Thirteenth has waned. The spirit of the other Houses has always been one of 'ignore and maybe it'll go away,' but the favored people of the Reflection have lost sight of the truth of his word.
Strength comes from embracing the darknesses within us, and using them as tools, rather than denying or even vilifying them. The corruption of the soul comes when that balance falls to one side or the other, for Light blinds, more painfully, and just as much as Darkness. Corruption is not the agency of the Thirteenth, but the bane of it. What strength can there be in a corrupted soul? Onle one honest with themselves and who they truly are can be purified and made whole.
The lessons, skewed and perverted infect all manner of vocation, influential and overlooked alike. Perhaps the animostiy comes from resisting the call of the soul, and the ignorance in what that call means, what it requires. Even in my imperfection, I realize the danger that faces me, whenever I look into the mirror, and it is only through the understanding of the Dark Reflection that I do not fall to that blighted existence.
My prayer to thee, oh Thirteenth of the Completed Pantheon, is to have the understanding embrace all who wish salvation from themselves, and the corrpution they've allowed to blind their hearts and minds. The Compact can stand on no less than whole souls.
Written By Dawn
Nov. 27, 2016, 1:03 p.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
Good men and women die every day. Most of us never know their names, or mark the moment of their passing. But those names that I do know, I keep close. Every night as I lie in bed, waiting for a few hours of sleep to claim me, I think of them. It is a small memorial, only a drop in the ocean of those who have been lost. But it is what I can do in the quiet moments I have to myself. That, and hope that it was not my choices, or my actions, that led to their loss. And when it has been...
Well, I must live with that, I must carry them with me, and let it spur me to improve.
I will do better, I swear it before the gods.
Well, I must live with that, I must carry them with me, and let it spur me to improve.
I will do better, I swear it before the gods.
Written By Leola
Nov. 27, 2016, 12:47 p.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
She has supported me so much. The Rose of Tor, she has styled herself. She seems to live and breathe scandal, and thrive on it. She is so very dear. She, and the Princess like her, have much in common, when I went to pay my respects to the late Baron.
I don't think they can steal me from my Baron. I admit to not quite knowing the laws on this, but I think it might be illegal
I don't think they can steal me from my Baron. I admit to not quite knowing the laws on this, but I think it might be illegal
Written By Leola
Nov. 27, 2016, 12:45 p.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Max
Count Darkwater pressed me for my opinion on the thralls of Thrax. In public. When I demurred, he pressed further, until I left. I'd been talking to Lady Sudara about the beautiful, warm clothes Aurora had made for me, when the Count began to press us.
If you read this, Count Darkwater, I will not comment on the matter of your slaves. It is not my place. I will not trust anyone who so flagrantly ignores the right of hospitality to keep their promise of neutrality.
If you read this, Count Darkwater, I will not comment on the matter of your slaves. It is not my place. I will not trust anyone who so flagrantly ignores the right of hospitality to keep their promise of neutrality.
Written By Augustus
Nov. 27, 2016, 11:55 a.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
I have been so incredibly busy these last few weeks that I've hardly had time to write in this journal.
Don't start with me about 'honouring the gods' or any of that claptrap. I write when and what I wish when I wish it - if a god is so concerned with what I'm writing, he can do it for me, I'm a busy man.
Not only is the micromanagement of a region the second most tedious task known to our kind (the first being dealing with anyone that says the word 'synergy'), but I am also burdened with the unending requirement to actually deal with people face-to-face. I will never, ever envy those that choose to do this - not that I've never done this before, I was quite adept at it in my youth - but my patience for stupidity has long run itself dry. I do not deal with people, I deal with facts. People, rarely, are factual or rational.
Very annoyed, but when am I not?
Don't start with me about 'honouring the gods' or any of that claptrap. I write when and what I wish when I wish it - if a god is so concerned with what I'm writing, he can do it for me, I'm a busy man.
Not only is the micromanagement of a region the second most tedious task known to our kind (the first being dealing with anyone that says the word 'synergy'), but I am also burdened with the unending requirement to actually deal with people face-to-face. I will never, ever envy those that choose to do this - not that I've never done this before, I was quite adept at it in my youth - but my patience for stupidity has long run itself dry. I do not deal with people, I deal with facts. People, rarely, are factual or rational.
Very annoyed, but when am I not?
Written By Dominique
Nov. 27, 2016, 11:47 a.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
I met with my cousin Sophie this past week. It was nice to see some welcoming faces. Alis is very cheery as well. It was nice to spend some time. Forget my troubles for a moment.
Written By Aldwin
Nov. 27, 2016, 11:21 a.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
A talented artist. A fear I've done a bad thing by introducing him to Orazio.
At least I have plenty of art to gift.
At least I have plenty of art to gift.
Written By Eos
Nov. 27, 2016, 11:06 a.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
I am reminded this morning, as I wake and reflect, of a drawing I saw once hanging on a merchant's stall in the markets of Southport on one of my visits to the great city.
There was a woman, a lovely woman, of many arms and looming height. Those arms each wielded daggers and vials and while one hand cut the next arm, that one blistered the next with acid. The woman's face was serene though, her smile beautiful, as she trudged through city roads, with small people crushed beneath her feet and drowning in the blood that poured black from her wounds.
It seemed hyperbolic at the time, when I only concerned myself with shav incursions and soldiers. Of late though, I worry that the commentary of that drawing that has stuck with me through the years is not so far from the mark.
There was a woman, a lovely woman, of many arms and looming height. Those arms each wielded daggers and vials and while one hand cut the next arm, that one blistered the next with acid. The woman's face was serene though, her smile beautiful, as she trudged through city roads, with small people crushed beneath her feet and drowning in the blood that poured black from her wounds.
It seemed hyperbolic at the time, when I only concerned myself with shav incursions and soldiers. Of late though, I worry that the commentary of that drawing that has stuck with me through the years is not so far from the mark.
Written By Ida
Nov. 27, 2016, 10:41 a.m.(3/24/1005 AR)
It seems as though it is a dangerous time to be an artisan in the city of Arx, as of late. I've also discovered a newfound aversion to tea.
Written By Alis
Nov. 27, 2016, 6:21 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Max
Or, perhaps not.
Written By Aislin
Nov. 27, 2016, 3:22 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Regent Dawn has risen quite high of late, and I can think of no one who more richly deserves the recognition. (Though I must admit I pity her for the attendant workload.)
While it's true that House Ashford owes loyalty to House Grayson, and so I had every reason to be deferential and loyal to her while she was the Voice of that House, all of our interactions taught me that she has one of the keener minds I've encountered in the city, and a loyalty to those she represents that inspires similar loyalty in return.
Still, I do regret somewhat the loss of more regular chats with her ever-increasing duties. I always enjoy the rare chances when we can have a debate over theories about some point of obscure history, or even just discuss my past adventures. On some level, despite the wild difference in our circumstances, I think she's a kindred spirit: in some other life where duty did not bind her, she might be out in the wilderness alongside all the other explorers.
While it's true that House Ashford owes loyalty to House Grayson, and so I had every reason to be deferential and loyal to her while she was the Voice of that House, all of our interactions taught me that she has one of the keener minds I've encountered in the city, and a loyalty to those she represents that inspires similar loyalty in return.
Still, I do regret somewhat the loss of more regular chats with her ever-increasing duties. I always enjoy the rare chances when we can have a debate over theories about some point of obscure history, or even just discuss my past adventures. On some level, despite the wild difference in our circumstances, I think she's a kindred spirit: in some other life where duty did not bind her, she might be out in the wilderness alongside all the other explorers.
Written By Aislin
Nov. 27, 2016, 3:09 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Iovita
Lady Iovita Igniseri. Where to begin?
A sharp mind coupled with a terrifying amount of energy, perhaps. Or the mischievous streak she has.
Either way, I quite enjoyed chatting with her about a research project, and look forward to continued lessons with her. I could easily see her as a protege; I do hope her brothers won't take it too amiss if I haul her off into the wilderness as my apprentice. I'm sure she'd adore some of the more picturesque ruins I've seen.
More seriously, she makes me miss my own younger sister Olivia, who I see far too rarely of late. Even though Iovita and Olivia could not be more different in temperament. (In truth, Iovita's personality is likely far closer to my own when I was younger than to Olivia's at any stage of her life. Which both gives me quite a bit of amusement, and perhaps some level of sympathy for what I must have put both Harlan and my father through.)
A sharp mind coupled with a terrifying amount of energy, perhaps. Or the mischievous streak she has.
Either way, I quite enjoyed chatting with her about a research project, and look forward to continued lessons with her. I could easily see her as a protege; I do hope her brothers won't take it too amiss if I haul her off into the wilderness as my apprentice. I'm sure she'd adore some of the more picturesque ruins I've seen.
More seriously, she makes me miss my own younger sister Olivia, who I see far too rarely of late. Even though Iovita and Olivia could not be more different in temperament. (In truth, Iovita's personality is likely far closer to my own when I was younger than to Olivia's at any stage of her life. Which both gives me quite a bit of amusement, and perhaps some level of sympathy for what I must have put both Harlan and my father through.)
Written By Valkieri
Nov. 27, 2016, 1:58 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
The Velenosas call for unity.
They call for honestly. While they lie and evade and make disappointed noises at their vassals. They claim -- insist -- on not having any answers, only to spill some small sliver of their knowledge when pressed.
They claim to be ignorant of the Archduchess's protection in her ride through the Lyceum, but when faced with a room of those who know the truth, they suddenly knew a reason for it.
I know the Velenosas do not have all the answers for the questions plaguing me, but they know much, much more than they claim.
Duke Hadrian claimed that the Velenosas were the only ones who had shared a secret directly after they had been caught in a lie. He is either an idiot, blindly loyal, or wildly cunning. My guess is a mixture of the first two.
*released black journal as stipulated by the will of the deceased*
They call for honestly. While they lie and evade and make disappointed noises at their vassals. They claim -- insist -- on not having any answers, only to spill some small sliver of their knowledge when pressed.
They claim to be ignorant of the Archduchess's protection in her ride through the Lyceum, but when faced with a room of those who know the truth, they suddenly knew a reason for it.
I know the Velenosas do not have all the answers for the questions plaguing me, but they know much, much more than they claim.
Duke Hadrian claimed that the Velenosas were the only ones who had shared a secret directly after they had been caught in a lie. He is either an idiot, blindly loyal, or wildly cunning. My guess is a mixture of the first two.
*released black journal as stipulated by the will of the deceased*
Written By Natalia
Nov. 27, 2016, 1:26 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Tristan
Good For You.
Written By Juliet
Nov. 27, 2016, 12:56 a.m.(3/23/1005 AR)
I seem to have an exceptional gift for expressing myself poorly lately.
Maybe I've fallen ill?
Maybe I've fallen ill?
Written By Alis
Nov. 26, 2016, 11:20 p.m.(3/22/1005 AR)
How long can a person stay awake at a stretch? I believe I am about to find out. And Sophie, answer your messenger before I worry more. You don't want me to worry more, do you? I know you don't!
Written By Darren
Nov. 26, 2016, 10:33 p.m.(3/22/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
Princess Natalia Grayson is quite the social butterly. We've met a few times for drinks and light conversation and there seems to be a bit more to her than the ability to hold a pleasant conversation.
Written By Drea
Nov. 26, 2016, 2:25 p.m.(3/21/1005 AR)
It is strange to me to reminisce in the written form. I haven't allowed much time for personal reflection in quite a long while, hence the importance of my pilgrimage. I sit now by the fire's edge surrounded by the voices of eternity on an icy evening amidst the embrace of our homelands, finally taking a moment to put to words the thoughts that I have been ignoring this past year. Anger has broiled just beneath the surface of all other emotions and I've found myself swallowing not only that anger, but also ignoring it and the root of its cause. In my attempts to be a pillar of strength for my family in the face of our loss, perhaps I have also done a disservice to my children. In a lack of acknowledgment of Sharrod’s death, I did not acknowledge that they too suffered loss beyond the topical. Not only loss, but Darren then had to rise from the daunting shadow my Sharrod left in his wake.
The winter willows whispered a song that finally broached the divide between my mundane self and that of the spirit, allowing the two to finally come to terms with this loss and in their mutual healing I have become whole. Of course, the advice I received upon my Long Walk varied dramatically but the perspectives of the North have always been a choir of wisdom from many different sources. After all, the rock of the river will rarely have the same point of view as the falcon of the skies.
None the less, I appreciate all of them and now feel I may return to Farhaven cleansed as was the intent of this journey to begin with.
For the first time in quite some time I look toward the next few nights with a peaceful excitement. I have missed my children. Their eclectic personalities have been a beacon of light in my life since the first look upon Darren and Deva’s wailing faces. Oh, and then there is of course my smallest firelight, Kieran. It will be good to see them upon my return.
I will admit, young Morrighan has passed through my thoughts from time to time during my sabbatical and I look forward to renewing company in her as well. In many ways she reminds me of Kieran and Deva’s fire.
Freja is another I look forward to connecting with, though I have no doubt she is already aware that my return is soon in coming. Her strength in the old ways has blossomed so much in the past few years. I can’t help but be reminded of my own journey and hope that I may better guide her to the potential she already clearly exhibits.
In truth though, right now I look most forward to the comfort of a long, warmed bath. My bones are not as strong as they once were and I feel the chill creep more quickly now, but soon I’ll be back beside my hearth.
So, my Long Walk has come to an end and now it is time for me to face the world of the mundane with clearer eyes and a resolved spirit.
The winter willows whispered a song that finally broached the divide between my mundane self and that of the spirit, allowing the two to finally come to terms with this loss and in their mutual healing I have become whole. Of course, the advice I received upon my Long Walk varied dramatically but the perspectives of the North have always been a choir of wisdom from many different sources. After all, the rock of the river will rarely have the same point of view as the falcon of the skies.
None the less, I appreciate all of them and now feel I may return to Farhaven cleansed as was the intent of this journey to begin with.
For the first time in quite some time I look toward the next few nights with a peaceful excitement. I have missed my children. Their eclectic personalities have been a beacon of light in my life since the first look upon Darren and Deva’s wailing faces. Oh, and then there is of course my smallest firelight, Kieran. It will be good to see them upon my return.
I will admit, young Morrighan has passed through my thoughts from time to time during my sabbatical and I look forward to renewing company in her as well. In many ways she reminds me of Kieran and Deva’s fire.
Freja is another I look forward to connecting with, though I have no doubt she is already aware that my return is soon in coming. Her strength in the old ways has blossomed so much in the past few years. I can’t help but be reminded of my own journey and hope that I may better guide her to the potential she already clearly exhibits.
In truth though, right now I look most forward to the comfort of a long, warmed bath. My bones are not as strong as they once were and I feel the chill creep more quickly now, but soon I’ll be back beside my hearth.
So, my Long Walk has come to an end and now it is time for me to face the world of the mundane with clearer eyes and a resolved spirit.
Written By Anze
Nov. 26, 2016, 1:53 p.m.(3/21/1005 AR)
What is with Southport? I expected the Lycene to care about poison, dresses, and silk, and then all the sudden Southport comes along.
Every single one of them drinks whiskey, fights, and seems to find me at the very least amusing. I think I have to visit this place and find out what they're doing, because they're clearly doing something right.
Every single one of them drinks whiskey, fights, and seems to find me at the very least amusing. I think I have to visit this place and find out what they're doing, because they're clearly doing something right.
Written By Joscelin
Nov. 26, 2016, 1:03 p.m.(3/21/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Ianthe
This skinny little tart has all the body fat of a rake, and yet the woman practically lives on pastries.
This even last, a gift from Messere Rook Grayward in the form of a plate-
-yes. a PLATE-
-of pastries was -absconded with-.
Gone! Pfft! A cloud of dust in her wake!
And she returns it, openly and everything, sets it on the counter, and there is one pastry left.
A pastry that has been licked clean of its honey-frosting.
And she grinned at me like it was a damn dare.
So I ate the thing. Right in front of her. And nearly choked for her expression and the laughter that followed.
This even last, a gift from Messere Rook Grayward in the form of a plate-
-yes. a PLATE-
-of pastries was -absconded with-.
Gone! Pfft! A cloud of dust in her wake!
And she returns it, openly and everything, sets it on the counter, and there is one pastry left.
A pastry that has been licked clean of its honey-frosting.
And she grinned at me like it was a damn dare.
So I ate the thing. Right in front of her. And nearly choked for her expression and the laughter that followed.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.