Written By Cordelia
Oct. 20, 2016, 4:57 p.m.(11/23/1004 AR)
Dear Diary,
What an insufferable ass! Sorry, not you, dear diary. Captain Abbas. The so-called Reaver Prince of Thrax. I mean, what in the deepest corridors of the Abyss was I thinking, to idolize him? I heard he fought in countless battles, but all I've seen so far is someone too deep in their spiced rum to notice the opportunities for greater fame and fortune. The pig outright announced he'd rather stare at my chest than go exploring the treacherous seas. The gray in his beard isn't the touch of a demon or a ghost, or even some dread sickness. It's just gray dye, I'm certain of it. He's nothing but a farce. A farce!
Anyway, sorry again for yelling at you. I just needed to vent. I think I'll go explore the city as scheduled. Maybe a good book at the Vellichorian Academy will help me relax.
Written By Myrinda
Oct. 20, 2016, 4:33 p.m.(11/23/1004 AR)
Don't think I haven't heard of that princess' thing that she's planning. There are rumors about it all over the city.
I will consider patronage of any person who has an invitation and will bring me as their plus-one.
And for the rest of the attendees, I will bring you fabulous gifts.
I will consider patronage of any person who has an invitation and will bring me as their plus-one.
And for the rest of the attendees, I will bring you fabulous gifts.
Written By Myrinda
Oct. 20, 2016, 3:13 p.m.(11/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lazarus
What self-respecting tailor would give this man what he asked for?
He asked for a fancy suit of fine cloth, silk, and /feathers/. /Feathers/. In the colors of gold, light blue, /and/ purple.
He must be kidding. What is he, a peacock?
He can come back to me with a more reasonable request or not. I will only make clothes that will flatter my clients, not turn them into jokes.
Not unless they pay me a lot more.
He asked for a fancy suit of fine cloth, silk, and /feathers/. /Feathers/. In the colors of gold, light blue, /and/ purple.
He must be kidding. What is he, a peacock?
He can come back to me with a more reasonable request or not. I will only make clothes that will flatter my clients, not turn them into jokes.
Not unless they pay me a lot more.
Written By Lazarus
Oct. 20, 2016, 2:13 p.m.(11/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Myrinda
Myrinda is popular in the upper boroughs for her tailoring skill but I have come to the realization that she is just blowing smoke up our asses. Has anyone seen any of her craft? I have not. I requested a simple suit with the colors of the Mercier house for Princess Natalia's event later this weekend and Myrinda responded with not only an attitude but the revelation that in her own vocation she is simple-minded and limited to the most basic tailoring skills. I should have known better. The old hag is a joke.
Written By Juliet
Oct. 20, 2016, 11:22 a.m.(11/22/1004 AR)
It is flattering, sometimes, to realise just who goes to the Archives, taking time out of their days to read one's thoughts, and to send kindness your way.
Today I am humbled and grateful.
Today I am humbled and grateful.
Written By Juliet
Oct. 20, 2016, 9:56 a.m.(11/22/1004 AR)
Cousin Leo is bold, dedicated and loyal to our House. He loves us very much, and his every action is done in this regard.
It scares me a little.
All I've ever wanted from life is to surround myself with beauty and to share in pleasure. Call me a devotee of Jayus in this regard. He called it "smaller pleasures". I don't know what a large pleasure would be, but he speaks of the permanence of the House, of leaving a legacy.
I think we reached some sort of accord? I will do what I can to support my House in its endeavours and he will stop and smell the roses.
I consider this a victory, even if it will require great sacrifice on my part.
It scares me a little.
All I've ever wanted from life is to surround myself with beauty and to share in pleasure. Call me a devotee of Jayus in this regard. He called it "smaller pleasures". I don't know what a large pleasure would be, but he speaks of the permanence of the House, of leaving a legacy.
I think we reached some sort of accord? I will do what I can to support my House in its endeavours and he will stop and smell the roses.
I consider this a victory, even if it will require great sacrifice on my part.
Written By Juliet
Oct. 20, 2016, 9:45 a.m.(11/22/1004 AR)
Time in Arx is strange. Even with the season still in the midst of Summer, I've felt melancholy. Missing Tor. Secluding myself in my chamber and filling it with roses.
I can't do it. A chamber full of flowers is pretty, but it's nothing compared to the gardens of Tor. At least the villa gardens are properly stocked, and going there has gotten me out of my rooms. Cousin Prospero is accusing me of stalking every flower seller in the city. Which is preposterous. I've sent servants.
I must shake this malady.
I can't do it. A chamber full of flowers is pretty, but it's nothing compared to the gardens of Tor. At least the villa gardens are properly stocked, and going there has gotten me out of my rooms. Cousin Prospero is accusing me of stalking every flower seller in the city. Which is preposterous. I've sent servants.
I must shake this malady.
Written By Natalia
Oct. 20, 2016, 1:54 a.m.(11/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Iona
I genuinely like spending time with this woman. She does, however, make me miss my own mother. I suppose it is just because she has that vibe that she is the mother of most. Then again, in our family, she really has been the pseudo-mom to most.
Written By Natalia
Oct. 20, 2016, 1:53 a.m.(11/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Aislin
While she was one of the first to meet me for tea and I adore her for that. I cannot help but think that I bored her senseless. She was not rude, but it was not the same warmth that might have been.
I shall, of course, attempt to meet with her again. I just hope that it goes better.
I shall, of course, attempt to meet with her again. I just hope that it goes better.
Written By Silas
Oct. 20, 2016, 1:31 a.m.(11/21/1004 AR)
The mice which had overrun my shop have been swiftly vanquished by Sir Roland, and I have rewarded Prince Edain for his generosity in lending him to me.
I have acquired a long list of pupils seeking my expertise in swordplay, and a squire who wishes to one day serve the Compact as a knight. The sudden interest has been bewildering, but I believe Lady Dawn has directed most of them to me, and for that, I am flattered. I hope my lessons prove to be valuable.
My brother has settled in without complaint and seems to have quickly adapted to life in the big city again. Now that father has completely relinquished control over the family business he has hit the ground running, establishing trade contracts with several noble houses already. Whatever hobbies he may have indulged in have likely been all but abandoned; hopefully, he won't work himself to death and learn to relax.
I have acquired a long list of pupils seeking my expertise in swordplay, and a squire who wishes to one day serve the Compact as a knight. The sudden interest has been bewildering, but I believe Lady Dawn has directed most of them to me, and for that, I am flattered. I hope my lessons prove to be valuable.
My brother has settled in without complaint and seems to have quickly adapted to life in the big city again. Now that father has completely relinquished control over the family business he has hit the ground running, establishing trade contracts with several noble houses already. Whatever hobbies he may have indulged in have likely been all but abandoned; hopefully, he won't work himself to death and learn to relax.
Written By Augustus
Oct. 20, 2016, 1:19 a.m.(11/21/1004 AR)
As I walk the road from the split, weary, I sat down
For it's twelve long miles down the stream to get to Lenosia town
Though the water and the road I go once seemed beyond compare
Now I curse the time it takes to reach my Lycene girl, so fair
The Autumn shades are on the leaves, the trees will soon be bare
Each red-coat leaf around me seems the colour of her hair
My gaze retreats, defies my feet, and once again I sigh
As the broken pool of sky reminds the colour of her eyes
At the Highground Inn each Sunday morning, where she can be found
And she seems to have the eye of every boy in Lenosia town
If my luck will hold I'll have the golden summer of her smile
And to break the hearts of Lycene men she'll talk to me a while
So next Sunday evening finds me homeward, Gemecitta bound
To work the week 'til I return to court in Lenosia town
When asked if she would be my bride, at least she'd not say no
So next Sunday morning I'll rouse myself and back to her, I'll go
As I walk the road from the split, weary, I sat down
For it's twelve long miles around the lake to get to Lenosia town
Though the water and the road I go once seemed beyond compare
Now I curse the time it takes to reach my Lycene girl, so fair
For it's twelve long miles down the stream to get to Lenosia town
Though the water and the road I go once seemed beyond compare
Now I curse the time it takes to reach my Lycene girl, so fair
The Autumn shades are on the leaves, the trees will soon be bare
Each red-coat leaf around me seems the colour of her hair
My gaze retreats, defies my feet, and once again I sigh
As the broken pool of sky reminds the colour of her eyes
At the Highground Inn each Sunday morning, where she can be found
And she seems to have the eye of every boy in Lenosia town
If my luck will hold I'll have the golden summer of her smile
And to break the hearts of Lycene men she'll talk to me a while
So next Sunday evening finds me homeward, Gemecitta bound
To work the week 'til I return to court in Lenosia town
When asked if she would be my bride, at least she'd not say no
So next Sunday morning I'll rouse myself and back to her, I'll go
As I walk the road from the split, weary, I sat down
For it's twelve long miles around the lake to get to Lenosia town
Though the water and the road I go once seemed beyond compare
Now I curse the time it takes to reach my Lycene girl, so fair
Written By Cordelia
Oct. 20, 2016, 12:18 a.m.(11/20/1004 AR)
Dear Diary,
Wow! It's been ages since I've last tossed an entry into here. And...great. Now I feel old. Old enough to get married, apparently. It may have just been the destination, or the goal, but this is the first time I've left Grihem's Point and actually felt miserable for it. At least Father isn't sending me to some backwater village to wed a pig farmer. Or something. Ugh. I'll have to remember that while I try enjoying the capital of the entire Compact. Arx! The so-called melting pot of Arvum, and I'm expected to audience with suitors instead of exploring the culture and history we've managed to scrape together after demons burned everything down. But never fear, dear diary! I know precisely how to sneak away from my jailers for a fun night or twenty across town. I even dare you to try and keep me in my room. Yes, you, Cailin! I know you read these things!
So. Anyway. I bumped into the heir of Thrax. He seems nice. Nothing like what I've been told. I was so sure I'd meet a doppelganger of Father. Or Uncle. Eww. He's oh so humble, and sweet, and predictably handsome. Plus, he can apparently fight, and he promised to spar with me sometime. Can't wait. What else...ummm...did I mention I'm supposed to see Salazar Argento? Yep, bachelor the first. So yeah...I'll tell you more about that later. For now, I sleep!
Written By Augustus
Oct. 19, 2016, 8:30 p.m.(11/20/1004 AR)
I spent a brief time with the King this morning. Normally my mornings are devoted to an early breakfast with Dawn, discussing the previous day's events over coffee and eggs. The usual family affair that I quite enjoy, because I do not need to fuss over boots and silks - often we are found in our slippers and nightgowns as we discuss matters both serious and mundane. It must be quite a sight.
This morning, however, I sat with the King for the first time since arriving in Arx. His condition chills even me. I have seen galleys afire on the shores of the islands, I have seen large armies cut down by Shav and sword. I have seen the darkness of blood-clouded vision. And yet an insensible King strikes me far deeper than any war, or any intrigue.
I spoke with him at length, as expected he said nothing, about the family and other subjects. I doubt it makes much sense to bother, but one must *try* at the very least.
More to come later, I expect. I have a very busy day.
This morning, however, I sat with the King for the first time since arriving in Arx. His condition chills even me. I have seen galleys afire on the shores of the islands, I have seen large armies cut down by Shav and sword. I have seen the darkness of blood-clouded vision. And yet an insensible King strikes me far deeper than any war, or any intrigue.
I spoke with him at length, as expected he said nothing, about the family and other subjects. I doubt it makes much sense to bother, but one must *try* at the very least.
More to come later, I expect. I have a very busy day.
Written By Augustus
Oct. 19, 2016, 8:09 p.m.(11/20/1004 AR)
I often find myself staring at the ceiling of my room as I lay in bed, contemplating all those little lingering thoughts that remain at the end of the day. And the one that strikes out against my consciousness all of the time, usually in the moments before I finally succumb to the siren call of sleep, is this:
Should we continue to rule?
I don't mean that as an affront to the ambitions of my younger kin, simply... if we cannot keep the Compact together now, as we always have done, should we not stand aside and allow another to try? Are we being selfish by attempting to impose our will upon the people of this new generation, if we cannot succeed?
Naturally these notions are soon swept aside, but it's something that has been on my mind often. Perhaps it is a sign of my old age, my cynicism meshed with my hope. Who can say?
Should we continue to rule?
I don't mean that as an affront to the ambitions of my younger kin, simply... if we cannot keep the Compact together now, as we always have done, should we not stand aside and allow another to try? Are we being selfish by attempting to impose our will upon the people of this new generation, if we cannot succeed?
Naturally these notions are soon swept aside, but it's something that has been on my mind often. Perhaps it is a sign of my old age, my cynicism meshed with my hope. Who can say?
Written By Lazarus
Oct. 19, 2016, 5:03 p.m.(11/20/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lydia
I met Lady Lydia at the city center after the market was closing and while I was finishing up with the books of a fellow merchants. It was hard to ignore the lady even in her huntress attire. At first I mistook her for an assistant of some northern lord but after spending some time talking to her, it was clear that the young lady was anything but a servant. It took her a while to introduce herself so initially I walked on egg shells until our conversation took a more casual tone. She was looking for advice with the Nightgold whiskey business. Her concern was that if she did not set up shop some where visible that she would not be able to establish a clientele. I explained to her the importance of running your business under the protection of your house especially inside their ward. The benefits of being able to trust that your business is in safe hands. Another concern of hers was that taverns were not stocking Nightgold whiskey but that could easily be manage by throwing parties and raising awareness of your product. I support her business venture even if it contradicts my own enterprise. The reason is that there is merit to traditional drinks, enough that having them as a competition would only help the market and also help establish Mercier drinks as the local variety for the nationalist in us.
Written By Pietro
Oct. 19, 2016, 3:29 p.m.(11/19/1004 AR)
I'm mostly writing this down to note that I owe the Blacktongue a drink! There, now I know I won't forget. It was an engaging conversation, if I'm left with the creeping suspicion that I'm not sure which of us at any given time was the foolish one. I suppose that's not the sort of thing I should write down in a white journal, is it?
Oh, well.
Lady Calypso and Lady Aislin should really meet! I think they'd enjoy each other, both women of action as they are. I wanted to tell Lady Calypso more of that before she was called away to deal with some business ... I hope we can arrange for that spar soon.
I'm getting itchy to fight someone, for one thing . . .
Oh, well.
Lady Calypso and Lady Aislin should really meet! I think they'd enjoy each other, both women of action as they are. I wanted to tell Lady Calypso more of that before she was called away to deal with some business ... I hope we can arrange for that spar soon.
I'm getting itchy to fight someone, for one thing . . .
Written By Tobias
Oct. 19, 2016, 12:36 p.m.(11/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
Of all the things to be accused of when I returned to the Compact... being a model of Fashion for the Telmar family was the absolute last on my list.
I can officially say I've found someone capable of sending me to wine faster than the idea of father coming to talk to me.
I can officially say I've found someone capable of sending me to wine faster than the idea of father coming to talk to me.
Written By Calypso
Oct. 19, 2016, 12:33 p.m.(11/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
I had my doubts about Prince Fergus when we met in the Training Center. Tall as a tree and just as thick. A Champion brute if I've ever seen one though. Her went through both myself and Viktarkim in duels and walked out with out a scratch. And while I'm not sure he is the kind of strategist I'd like to plot a battle with, I would be damned sure to call on him in a fight. Men like Prince Fergus are a rarity and I hope to stay in his good graces.
Written By Calypso
Oct. 19, 2016, 12:29 p.m.(11/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Viktarkim
I've run in to this Shav a few times though out the city. Tattooed, large muscular arms, whisky-drinking, and oddly charming and interesting to talk to! I believe he is something of a Grayson Bodyguard. Working for Lady Dawn if memory serves correctly. Which means either he is more trustworthy than he seems or she is a fool. Either way, one thing that can be said about Viktarkim is that he knows how to take a beating. I watched Prince Fergus Redrain beat the ever living hell out of him and he took it in stride. I'm sure in a more evenly matched fight he would hold his own. Quite respectable.
Written By Joscelin
Oct. 19, 2016, 11:22 a.m.(11/19/1004 AR)
I'm giving up whiskey for good. It gives me too many problems.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.