Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 5:14 p.m.(7/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Esera
I am not nervous around too many, if perhaps mostly because I tend to not be around people of great status terribly often. When I am, they are asking me for forge something or make me comfortable. Perhaps the Grand Duchess title, or the fact that her elegance is like a physical presence at the events I've been to that she attended, made me somewhat nervous about Her Grace, Grand Duchess Esera Velenosa. Despite that, I sent word offering to craft a pair of hairpins for her when she advertised asking for a hair ornament to match a fireweave outfit. She has been an exceptionally gracious benefactor of the artisans, so sent word offering my skills. I expected a messenger and, instead, received her as a visitor to the shop. I talked too much, which is often the case, but she was every bit as gracious in person. And? I'm pretty sure she liked the hairpins. Hopefully she'll have no need for them beyond keeping her hair up.
Written By Eos
Sept. 14, 2016, 11:56 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
Every child should have an aunt or uncle as Kima and I were blessed to have in our uncle, now Archlector Orazio. It feels so odd to use that title and name. It makes something almost foreign out of something so familiar. I was happy to find that in title alone when Kima and I joined him for a dinner to make far too belated reunion. Despite the robes, despite the title, the man who doted on us as children with little gifts and tried to fool us with his expressionless masks and dire tales is still very much there. With such uncertainty ahead, I am glad to have his wise and trusted voice to turn to here in Arx.
Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 10:51 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lou
To say that Princess Lou is unprincessly would make the statement that princesses are supposed to be a particular sort of way. I imagine some people think that, but I figure princess is more a title than something that dictates who someone is. A rather roundabout way of saying that Princess Lou seems one of those people who uses her talents and follows her passions, regardless of what name she is attached to. I enjoyed forging a bow for her, which I truly hope serves her well, as well as just meeting and speaking with her.. I also have to admit having some favor toward people who want something to use rather than display.
Written By Ida
Sept. 14, 2016, 10:37 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Viktarkim
Viktarkim, a tribesman scout and Shav...or former Shav? I'm not sure how one might define him. How I define him, though, is someone in the service of Princess Lou and Lady Dawn, so surely worthy of my own trust. He was sent to me to order some items by them and has a true eye for design - which is maybe unexpected? I have no idea. It seemed beyond his comprehension that someone who makes weapons can't use them, and who fights, does so for sport. I mean, I guess there's a bit of irony there which I hadn't considered before then. It reminded me that when he fights, it's likely to kill. A little dose of the reality of who he was, or can be. Maybe it wasn't beyond his comprehension as much as he thought me odd for it all? Hard to tell, I guess. It was certainly one of my more interesting meetings, that's for sure.
Written By Isolde
Sept. 14, 2016, 8:58 a.m.(7/26/1004 AR)
I had the loveliest visit with Lady Dawn and Prince Inquisitor Laric at the Grayson estate. We definitely do not always see the world the same way, but frankly, I find that endearing. The world would be dreadfully boring if we all did, and no one would ever learn anything. I think we both suffer from a lack of outside experience, having lived most of our lives in Arx or Lenosia, respectively.
All in all, I do not envy my sister's place in having to navigate the waters of the Assembly. I take comfort, however, that even if two people disagree, friendship can overcome anything. I have the luxury of being able to afford friendships, rather than simply political allies. It is not something I shall take for granted.
Please note: Talen needs more riding lessons. Let us find him a tutor, hm?
All in all, I do not envy my sister's place in having to navigate the waters of the Assembly. I take comfort, however, that even if two people disagree, friendship can overcome anything. I have the luxury of being able to afford friendships, rather than simply political allies. It is not something I shall take for granted.
Please note: Talen needs more riding lessons. Let us find him a tutor, hm?
Written By Calista
Sept. 14, 2016, 3:09 a.m.(7/25/1004 AR)
I had my weekly visit with Alaric today. It is the same as it is every week. One sided. It is not a complaint, the man is in a coma still but I thought I saw a glimmer of something in his eyes. Perhaps it was just the way the light reflected off the guard's armor who was standing so close I could smell what he had for lunch. Garlic!
Another week, another bouquet of roses with the thorns shaved off. Normally I don't do this given the Fidante motto but security is very high in the Palace and I do not wish for my gift of roses from Tor to be considered a weapon. I wore the dress I wore to the Seaside Soiree which is nothing but a whisper of silk bound at the neck by a thick gold collar. My hope was to quicken Alaric's pulse and see if there was any reaction. Much to my dismay there was no change to his vitals.
Instead of a story from one of my infamous books, I shared bits and pieces of my life so far since arriving to Arx. I tell him all the time about how we first met. I always check to see if he's still wearing my ring on the strip of leather around his neck and I always make a note of thanking him for the gorgeous dress he gifted me. It is still my favorite even if I don't wear it much out of fear of ruining or damaging it.
Yes, I fill his ears with pretty stories, pleasant stories to remind him of how loved he is by his people and while others did not have the same experience I did in getting to know the man beneath the crown, I write these journals to give them but a glimpse and perhaps offer them hope. Does he hear my words, does he know I visit him faithfully every week? I do not know and it does not matter. I do it regardless of praise or recognition.
This entry is getting too emotional and mushy. Let me stop here before my reputation is ruined.
Another week, another bouquet of roses with the thorns shaved off. Normally I don't do this given the Fidante motto but security is very high in the Palace and I do not wish for my gift of roses from Tor to be considered a weapon. I wore the dress I wore to the Seaside Soiree which is nothing but a whisper of silk bound at the neck by a thick gold collar. My hope was to quicken Alaric's pulse and see if there was any reaction. Much to my dismay there was no change to his vitals.
Instead of a story from one of my infamous books, I shared bits and pieces of my life so far since arriving to Arx. I tell him all the time about how we first met. I always check to see if he's still wearing my ring on the strip of leather around his neck and I always make a note of thanking him for the gorgeous dress he gifted me. It is still my favorite even if I don't wear it much out of fear of ruining or damaging it.
Yes, I fill his ears with pretty stories, pleasant stories to remind him of how loved he is by his people and while others did not have the same experience I did in getting to know the man beneath the crown, I write these journals to give them but a glimpse and perhaps offer them hope. Does he hear my words, does he know I visit him faithfully every week? I do not know and it does not matter. I do it regardless of praise or recognition.
This entry is getting too emotional and mushy. Let me stop here before my reputation is ruined.
Written By Orazio
Sept. 13, 2016, 10:50 p.m.(7/25/1004 AR)
To the faithful reader:
Although my duty is sworn to The Silent Watcher, tonight belongs to my contemplation of the mercy Lagoma brings to our lives. Tonight, I had the great pleasure to see my niece and my nephew, after too long without the comfort of family around me. While I never regret swearing myself to the service of the gods above all others, it is still a pleasure to see shared blood, and more, the growth of children into proud women and men who I, in turn, can be proud to claim. Age and change touch us all, and even as it brings grey to my hair and an ache to my back, so does it bring strength and confidence to the younger generation. It is a reminder that Lagoma's touch is needed, for did the older cease to diminish, then how could the younger rise to their full opportunities? Do not fear the cool caress of autumn, I must remind myself, for it's only by the descent into winter can we come back around to the spring.
That sounds rather more like a sermon than I intended. Perhaps I grow to miss the pulpit, so consumed have I been by my administrative duties. I, too, must change and grow.
Although my duty is sworn to The Silent Watcher, tonight belongs to my contemplation of the mercy Lagoma brings to our lives. Tonight, I had the great pleasure to see my niece and my nephew, after too long without the comfort of family around me. While I never regret swearing myself to the service of the gods above all others, it is still a pleasure to see shared blood, and more, the growth of children into proud women and men who I, in turn, can be proud to claim. Age and change touch us all, and even as it brings grey to my hair and an ache to my back, so does it bring strength and confidence to the younger generation. It is a reminder that Lagoma's touch is needed, for did the older cease to diminish, then how could the younger rise to their full opportunities? Do not fear the cool caress of autumn, I must remind myself, for it's only by the descent into winter can we come back around to the spring.
That sounds rather more like a sermon than I intended. Perhaps I grow to miss the pulpit, so consumed have I been by my administrative duties. I, too, must change and grow.
Written By Orazio
Sept. 13, 2016, 10:16 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Eos
My nephew. A fine man, who has overcome the gods' trials better than some.
Written By Orazio
Sept. 13, 2016, 10:15 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
My niece. Talented, but impetuous.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 13, 2016, 9:22 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
As the days wear on I find myself missing home.
I should make some time to get outside the walls. Princess Ophelia has been kind enough to invite me, and I understand Princess Loucia is an explorer of some renown.
Hopefully I will be able to make the time.
Written By Signe
Sept. 13, 2016, 4:09 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
Life is meant to be experienced now. So, I didn't waste my time packing out and settling in my chambers after arrival. I rushed out from the mansion to explore our glorious capital!
Of course, I didn't run out into an unknown city all by myself. A brave and handsome Vidar was following me. I consider him my best friend and the most amusing company. To those who do not know, let me introduce Vidor. He is a robust and thick-coated hound. He is a great visual example of the breed. Mostly reddish-orange with hints of brown here and there, mostly around the edges of the ears, with most of the face, the underside, and the front legs all white. With light amber eyes and a brown nose that is starting to border on pink, this my beloved hound would likely be considered beautiful by most.
So, we took a walk. I must admit that I got lost three times. Though, Vidar smelled our way out into the right path. So, no worries here. I must admit that I do not like crowded streets and those grey buildings all around me. Vidar didn't like that too. He was barking a lot. I do not think that passersby liked us either. But it doesn't matter.
To sum up, I must say that my first day in Arx is great. Though, others will be even more marvelous, because I plan to visit surroundings: beach and forests.
Let the adventure begin!
Of course, I didn't run out into an unknown city all by myself. A brave and handsome Vidar was following me. I consider him my best friend and the most amusing company. To those who do not know, let me introduce Vidor. He is a robust and thick-coated hound. He is a great visual example of the breed. Mostly reddish-orange with hints of brown here and there, mostly around the edges of the ears, with most of the face, the underside, and the front legs all white. With light amber eyes and a brown nose that is starting to border on pink, this my beloved hound would likely be considered beautiful by most.
So, we took a walk. I must admit that I got lost three times. Though, Vidar smelled our way out into the right path. So, no worries here. I must admit that I do not like crowded streets and those grey buildings all around me. Vidar didn't like that too. He was barking a lot. I do not think that passersby liked us either. But it doesn't matter.
To sum up, I must say that my first day in Arx is great. Though, others will be even more marvelous, because I plan to visit surroundings: beach and forests.
Let the adventure begin!
Written By Lou
Sept. 13, 2016, 12:49 p.m.(7/23/1004 AR)
Being in the city has never been easy for me. Even Bastion, since I have come of age, only ever provides a temporary respite.
I yearn to be sleeping under the stars and spending my days going where none of my people have set foot in decades.
The last couple of days have brought increasingly troubling things to my feet. Ones that beg -- that demand -- I remain within the city as a scion of Grayson. I am told I am a leader, even if I do not play the games of salons and whispers.
...but who do I lead? And where am I leading them?
I yearn to be sleeping under the stars and spending my days going where none of my people have set foot in decades.
The last couple of days have brought increasingly troubling things to my feet. Ones that beg -- that demand -- I remain within the city as a scion of Grayson. I am told I am a leader, even if I do not play the games of salons and whispers.
...but who do I lead? And where am I leading them?
Written By Laric
Sept. 13, 2016, 5:08 a.m.(7/22/1004 AR)
Because it is demanded that I fill both black and white pages, and because I have filled many black pages already tonight, I will attempt to fill a white page.
There can be no doubt that my heart has been tugged in directions I never thought it might in the shortest period of time. Companionship, grief, shock, genuine ire and humility I didn't ask for all have struck me across the chops and I find I am punch drunk for it.
I beg forgiveness for my trespasses against those I hold dear now. My family - I would do anything for you, and I believe this is self-evident. But there are those amongst this Kingdom besides that I feel destined to disappoint, even if I work in their very best interests. You may not understand. I may beg you to, but I will not demand it.
Even so, I will say some remarks for those I have laid eyes on recently.
Lady Olivia Ashford, I find, has a pure soul and I pray that if she reads this or not, she understands that I do intend to avoid her. I have read Lord Rainier Ashford's recent entry to the journals as well, and I must let him down as well. It seems at present there will be no expedition, even if I pledged one at the conference. I intend to talk to you both in person and apologize there.
Princess Isolde Velenosa, we have become very fast friends in a short time. Do you trust me? Perhaps in my shoes you would understand that trust does not always preclude hurt. Even as yet I do not intend to disappoint you.
Sir Silas, you remain a steadfast support in times of great turmoil and I intend to return the favor to you for the Iron Guard.
Lou & Mason Grayson. Cooler heads prevail, they say, but I cannot say I understand where your particular temerity comes from. Nor your association with a shav. Viktarkim. I pray you aren't making a mistake.
And Lady Dawn. No use in pretense. You understood.
Larissa Whisper patiently awaits my call and I feel there is no better time than presently, so I will draft a letter. Eithne as well deserves my thanks in person when next I've time. Other unnamed hires will be made for less pleasant purposes. And I've yet to call on Prince Darren.
Perhaps if I'd known the Inquisition's business would call on me thus I wouldn't have joined. It is rather tiresome.
There can be no doubt that my heart has been tugged in directions I never thought it might in the shortest period of time. Companionship, grief, shock, genuine ire and humility I didn't ask for all have struck me across the chops and I find I am punch drunk for it.
I beg forgiveness for my trespasses against those I hold dear now. My family - I would do anything for you, and I believe this is self-evident. But there are those amongst this Kingdom besides that I feel destined to disappoint, even if I work in their very best interests. You may not understand. I may beg you to, but I will not demand it.
Even so, I will say some remarks for those I have laid eyes on recently.
Lady Olivia Ashford, I find, has a pure soul and I pray that if she reads this or not, she understands that I do intend to avoid her. I have read Lord Rainier Ashford's recent entry to the journals as well, and I must let him down as well. It seems at present there will be no expedition, even if I pledged one at the conference. I intend to talk to you both in person and apologize there.
Princess Isolde Velenosa, we have become very fast friends in a short time. Do you trust me? Perhaps in my shoes you would understand that trust does not always preclude hurt. Even as yet I do not intend to disappoint you.
Sir Silas, you remain a steadfast support in times of great turmoil and I intend to return the favor to you for the Iron Guard.
Lou & Mason Grayson. Cooler heads prevail, they say, but I cannot say I understand where your particular temerity comes from. Nor your association with a shav. Viktarkim. I pray you aren't making a mistake.
And Lady Dawn. No use in pretense. You understood.
Larissa Whisper patiently awaits my call and I feel there is no better time than presently, so I will draft a letter. Eithne as well deserves my thanks in person when next I've time. Other unnamed hires will be made for less pleasant purposes. And I've yet to call on Prince Darren.
Perhaps if I'd known the Inquisition's business would call on me thus I wouldn't have joined. It is rather tiresome.
Written By Zotikos
Sept. 12, 2016, 7:27 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
It seems that House Telmar is doomed to fail and burn in the fires of irresponsible causality and the usual death and decay that takes over once the young have hatched and itch to consume the body of the parent before moving on to their own lives. While I doubt my nephew has it in him to be so ambitious, I will say that he's a sad disappointment from the fighter I remember him being as a child. This pretentious creature I ran into in the markets (as he did not give word to his own House that he had returned) is as self-entitled as he ever was.
But I genuinely hope he proves me otherwise. I have no intention of fathering a child, so literally, the fate of Telmar's future rests on him.
But I genuinely hope he proves me otherwise. I have no intention of fathering a child, so literally, the fate of Telmar's future rests on him.
Written By Mason
Sept. 12, 2016, 3:54 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lou
Lou is still trying to adapt to the way of life in a city. I think, well, I know she doesn't really enjoy it here. That she doubts her ability to fit in as well she thinks she should.
It's not a failing, it's simply how she is. Her tendency of not mincing words, and a worry that she would say something someone has no desire to hear. And that she relies on me keep things smooth. Which I'm more than happy to do so.
I want to make her happy, but for all my efforts, I do not know if I will be able to truly do so while she remains here. I even brought up the matter of children with her to perhaps give something to focus on. I don't even know if children would make her happy. I know I would be, for I have no desire to raise my children with the same mentality that my own siblings had.
Still, having children shouldn't be done for the sake of doing so. I don't want Lou to think she's tied somewhere, but I also know she fears being a good parent, while at the same time wanting the freedom to do what she's done all her life.
It's a delicate balance, and I try my best to keep her from doubting too much.
Eventually I hope she finds her place. Comfortable, even. Even if it's not the comfort she prefers in the wilderness. Regardless of that, I will follow her.
It's not a failing, it's simply how she is. Her tendency of not mincing words, and a worry that she would say something someone has no desire to hear. And that she relies on me keep things smooth. Which I'm more than happy to do so.
I want to make her happy, but for all my efforts, I do not know if I will be able to truly do so while she remains here. I even brought up the matter of children with her to perhaps give something to focus on. I don't even know if children would make her happy. I know I would be, for I have no desire to raise my children with the same mentality that my own siblings had.
Still, having children shouldn't be done for the sake of doing so. I don't want Lou to think she's tied somewhere, but I also know she fears being a good parent, while at the same time wanting the freedom to do what she's done all her life.
It's a delicate balance, and I try my best to keep her from doubting too much.
Eventually I hope she finds her place. Comfortable, even. Even if it's not the comfort she prefers in the wilderness. Regardless of that, I will follow her.
Written By Lou
Sept. 12, 2016, 3:51 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
Those that told me of her skill were not wrong.
I both wish to use my new crossbow frequently... and to put it up upon the wall to admire.
I both wish to use my new crossbow frequently... and to put it up upon the wall to admire.
Written By Darren
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:47 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Deva
I promised I would protect you. I meant it when I said that.
Written By Deva
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:38 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Today I learned that saunas make my hair unbearable, even for me, and that I am comfortable only where I can drink whatever I please. I quite enjoy beach bonfires and rousing stories, though. There were so many stars. And so much sand in my boots the day after. Worth it, though.
Written By Ophelia
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:24 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Dear Diary,
I know that I am so very-very bad at writing to you, but I get very caught up in the little things and I don't have that much time. Alas, I ripped the sole of my favorite pair of boots when scaling a very precarious set of stairs that may or may not of had the qualities of a tree outside of a window at the Velenosan Estate. While that and my twisted ankle mend, and since I am told that I can't run around barefoot, I will write.
Digging your toes into sand is wonderful. Luca and Deva shared this experience with me last night and I felt closer to them for it. Experiences oft color what we do with our futures, but stories can also inspire. I was disappointed that the hostess had to leave after the first story was done (and it was a great story with monsters and swords and killing), but Sir Silas made up for the fact brilliantly with an engaging one to follow about irate rabbits (the bane of bowless warriors), eight foot tall harrowing creatures who became first kills (Lord Zotikos informed me harrowing was a suitable word for ugly) and a vast quantity of angry rats who escaped mostly unharmed into the wilderness (the bane of cooks and scholars).
Princess Deva seemed troubled. If whiskey and drinks didn't immediately go to my head to produce the most cloud-like and distracting mental haze, I would have attended to her more and I need to do just that. Watching her laugh later though was wonderful. Perhaps she needs something to hunt to vent the tension or maybe someone took away her rights to shoot apples off people's heads also. That would make anyone morose. She did have the ingenious and experienced idea, though, that when books are exceptionally tedious (which they usually are), it is best to have someone read to you. I wonder if there's any who could do so while I hunt.
Yours Truly,
Ophelia
I know that I am so very-very bad at writing to you, but I get very caught up in the little things and I don't have that much time. Alas, I ripped the sole of my favorite pair of boots when scaling a very precarious set of stairs that may or may not of had the qualities of a tree outside of a window at the Velenosan Estate. While that and my twisted ankle mend, and since I am told that I can't run around barefoot, I will write.
Digging your toes into sand is wonderful. Luca and Deva shared this experience with me last night and I felt closer to them for it. Experiences oft color what we do with our futures, but stories can also inspire. I was disappointed that the hostess had to leave after the first story was done (and it was a great story with monsters and swords and killing), but Sir Silas made up for the fact brilliantly with an engaging one to follow about irate rabbits (the bane of bowless warriors), eight foot tall harrowing creatures who became first kills (Lord Zotikos informed me harrowing was a suitable word for ugly) and a vast quantity of angry rats who escaped mostly unharmed into the wilderness (the bane of cooks and scholars).
Princess Deva seemed troubled. If whiskey and drinks didn't immediately go to my head to produce the most cloud-like and distracting mental haze, I would have attended to her more and I need to do just that. Watching her laugh later though was wonderful. Perhaps she needs something to hunt to vent the tension or maybe someone took away her rights to shoot apples off people's heads also. That would make anyone morose. She did have the ingenious and experienced idea, though, that when books are exceptionally tedious (which they usually are), it is best to have someone read to you. I wonder if there's any who could do so while I hunt.
Yours Truly,
Ophelia
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:12 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
I originally met Mistress Joscelin Arterius at the market day hosted by Lady Dawn. I remember her jewelry, although we barely crossed a word that day. It was very busy. More recently I had a chance to share a drink with her. I found her to be entertaining, and capable of some keen insights. She seems to be a fan of Acacia, which is rather cute, I must say. I'm curious to see how she presents herself in future meetings.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.