Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 5:55 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
Brilliant, witty, beautiful, and whip-smart.
Capable of both frivolity and gravity, her kind words put a bounce back into my steps. This one is dangerous. Fortunately she seems to be on my side.
Capable of both frivolity and gravity, her kind words put a bounce back into my steps. This one is dangerous. Fortunately she seems to be on my side.
Written By Ida
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:09 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Made a few weapons that I am rather proud of recently, though hope that does not come across as patting myself on the back. Truly, all three were designed by those who requested them. I just put their ideas into the form of steel.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:06 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
So, I met an Inquisitor today in the Grayson courtyard gardens.
Strange, but aren't they all. This one managed to sneak a few morbid remarks into an otherwise normal conversation. There is something about him though. Something that tells me he is good at his job. Not sure I want to know any more than that.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:01 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Well. I'm back in Arx.
One can't help but be amazed at the place. What man has wrought: a million stones stacked by a million hands. How many masons? How many laborers? Only a fool would fail to be impressed.
I still hate it here. Already the wood calls to me. I would trade a dozen capitals for one week back in the Ashford forests. Still, there is business to be done, and I'd best be at it. Duty calls.
One can't help but be amazed at the place. What man has wrought: a million stones stacked by a million hands. How many masons? How many laborers? Only a fool would fail to be impressed.
I still hate it here. Already the wood calls to me. I would trade a dozen capitals for one week back in the Ashford forests. Still, there is business to be done, and I'd best be at it. Duty calls.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 1:16 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I do so love a challenge.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:58 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
I confesss, I turn to my journal not nearly as well as I should. Often my days blur into nights and nights blur into parties and booze and all the many masks I wear. And what truly consists of an evening spent with a Courtesan and Courtier of the court? At times I am called upon as friend and confidant and in those moments I am precious and those around me are cherished as I hold their hand and wipe tears and coax laughter and hold secrets well into my heart. I have the fortunate disposition to love easily, so dazzled am I by the beautiful faces, the glittering lights and the ringing bells of laughter that promises more to come. Always more. I am a glutton fed with cream and butter.
Other times, I am called upon to teach what I know in the ways of ettiqute, dancing, poetry and the small histories of our world I've put myself to memorize. With our mix cultures and people standing thick and sociable and awkward together in one city, it is important that the Whisper House lays the foundation of cohesian and cooperation.
That theme altogether prevails more often than not as we are called on to be diplomats, using our knowledge of the different cultures to usher along an understanding of minds who are all, in their own ways, working towards the same goals and the same end. It is my belief that to succeed what is coming, that electric crackling and oppressive weight that is settling warily upon us, we must look to each other and hone our own individual strengths. We balance each other out, for without darkness there would be no light and we are creatures who thrive in both.
Other times, I am called upon to teach what I know in the ways of ettiqute, dancing, poetry and the small histories of our world I've put myself to memorize. With our mix cultures and people standing thick and sociable and awkward together in one city, it is important that the Whisper House lays the foundation of cohesian and cooperation.
That theme altogether prevails more often than not as we are called on to be diplomats, using our knowledge of the different cultures to usher along an understanding of minds who are all, in their own ways, working towards the same goals and the same end. It is my belief that to succeed what is coming, that electric crackling and oppressive weight that is settling warily upon us, we must look to each other and hone our own individual strengths. We balance each other out, for without darkness there would be no light and we are creatures who thrive in both.
Written By Leo
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:49 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Prospero
Tor benefits greatly from the sharp mind that keeps contracts and the law a Fidante strength.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:03 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
I swear this woman is in the wrong line of work. Never have I met anyone more fitting to the Whisper House than she. She even had me swooning and that's no small feat. She is charming, articulate, kind, warm, gorgeous and mysterious enough to leave you always wanting more... Shall I go on? And she's promised to teach me how to defend myself against potentially aggressive clients. In me, she has made a friend and fan for life.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 11:37 a.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Audric
I've heard rumors throughout the city of Captain General Audric and his flaming unicorn and the mercenary army he commands. It had been my intention to seduce him to the loyalty of the Whisper House - instead we discovered together that I cannot hold my whiskey and that compassion lurks in the unexpected and friendship is something that still holds merit and worth. I think I shall quite like calling this man my friend.
Written By Anastasio
Sept. 1, 2016, 7:05 a.m.(6/15/1004 AR)
Taking the problem with the Guardsmen to Lady Dawn has proven a route to a speedy solution, at the small price of having to endure the hard gaze of an Inquisitor. A messenger arrived the day after I spoke with the Lady, indicating that the problem had been taken care of. If there are others enduring the abuse of power I hope they speak up to someone. The Voice of Grayson also began my recovery, so I'm starting to look for a new shop space. It'd be better if I could find a patron. Someone will to offer up lab space and fund research into the alchemical side of things. The future of the healing arts is in the substances we can create. And it's not like the side-effects of that research aren't of use. The flameless lanterns have been a big seller.
Written By Joscelin
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:12 a.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
I can't sleep tonight.
I stole a moon-moth from the steps of an old temple, a garden shrouded in dreams that I still can't find a way back to. It was beautiful, fluttering softly under the lamplight, muted colors lost beneath its yellow glow. With the gentlest touch, I picked it up and cradled it in my palms. I took it home.
(The following has been written and crossed out, but it's still legible: "I have memories of my stupid brother when I do this. I remember the knuckles of his hand smearing the exposed cuts of a tender creature across my cheek, sneering. I remember crying and burying a small furry body, grotesque in its distortion." It's noted that the hand was heavy here, the quill dug in.)
It fluttered in a large glass jar, like the kind my mother has to keep her flour. I didn't trust the gaslamps to show me its proper color, so I went to bed to wait for sunrise.
It was well into the morning when I woke. And the moth was as astounding as I knew it would be. Golds, greens, grays, soft creams. Black lines, dramatic against those softer colors.
I drew it at least a dozen times, from several angles, tried to match its shade with my inks and tints. I think I've made a close estimate.
And then, like I always do when something living inspires me, I took it to my garden and I let it free. In the shade of the rose-tree, ancient, gnarled, sculpted thing, I left the insect to sleep in its protected branches.
I've a few designs drawn up already; enamels are a favorite of mine, and I look forward to creating images with the powdered glass. I think maybe a haircomb first... and then perhaps....
Hmm.
(the rest of the page is covered in little ink drawings of moths, temple arches, and a large, writhing, angry-looking rose tree, a small moth clearly settled in among the thorns, safe and protected)
I stole a moon-moth from the steps of an old temple, a garden shrouded in dreams that I still can't find a way back to. It was beautiful, fluttering softly under the lamplight, muted colors lost beneath its yellow glow. With the gentlest touch, I picked it up and cradled it in my palms. I took it home.
(The following has been written and crossed out, but it's still legible: "I have memories of my stupid brother when I do this. I remember the knuckles of his hand smearing the exposed cuts of a tender creature across my cheek, sneering. I remember crying and burying a small furry body, grotesque in its distortion." It's noted that the hand was heavy here, the quill dug in.)
It fluttered in a large glass jar, like the kind my mother has to keep her flour. I didn't trust the gaslamps to show me its proper color, so I went to bed to wait for sunrise.
It was well into the morning when I woke. And the moth was as astounding as I knew it would be. Golds, greens, grays, soft creams. Black lines, dramatic against those softer colors.
I drew it at least a dozen times, from several angles, tried to match its shade with my inks and tints. I think I've made a close estimate.
And then, like I always do when something living inspires me, I took it to my garden and I let it free. In the shade of the rose-tree, ancient, gnarled, sculpted thing, I left the insect to sleep in its protected branches.
I've a few designs drawn up already; enamels are a favorite of mine, and I look forward to creating images with the powdered glass. I think maybe a haircomb first... and then perhaps....
Hmm.
(the rest of the page is covered in little ink drawings of moths, temple arches, and a large, writhing, angry-looking rose tree, a small moth clearly settled in among the thorns, safe and protected)
Written By Acacia
Aug. 31, 2016, 11:37 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
I've met Courtesan Larissa Whisper in a number of different environments now, but she fits to them all marvelously, while bringing her own special little bit of her along with. She has that sort of demeanor which draws people in, entices them, entertains them and leaves them wanting more-- all the kinds of things you'd expect from one polished in her arts. Yet without peeling back any layers, there's also a particular warmth about her that's hard to miss. I've certainly enjoyed her thus far-- and well, she's very good.
Written By Larissa
Aug. 31, 2016, 9:23 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dagon
I never thought I would use the term Prince Charming and Thrax in the same sentence. Go figure. Prince Dagon carries himself with such undeniable charm it is always enjoyable to spend my evenings in his company.
Written By Larissa
Aug. 31, 2016, 9:05 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Freja
It is rare that I am so impressed by someone as I am with the Princess Freja. She is all at once formidable, comfortable and elegant in a way that only the beautiful wilderness can be. It is my hope to know her better as time passes.
Written By Dawn
Aug. 31, 2016, 7:50 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Esera
We recognize each other, those of us who are shaped from birth to step into a role chosen for us by others. She fills the cloak that life has cut for her with grace, power and conviction. But, in interactions, I find it important to look beyond the flash and sparkle of the aura she projects. The shadows beneath are where her true substance lies, and it is worth being dazzled to seek that out.
Written By Dawn
Aug. 31, 2016, 7:46 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
What impresses me most about Princess Isolde is her strength of personality. She is entirely certain of herself but seems to take care to avoid overpowering the people around her. Indeed, she it is her interest in others that I recognize mostly strongly. It is an interest that seems to come at least partly of her dedication to her chosen god but when one moves in circles where many have difficulty seeing beyond themselves to others, I view her desire to connect with those she encounters as a strength.
Written By Dawn
Aug. 31, 2016, 7:43 p.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Deva
The Princess Deva seems a free spirit but there's depth here as well, however cunningly she conceals it beneath bold words and an overabundance of Northern energy. I confess I look at her and see someone I very much could not be; she spends far less time than I do concerning herself with the opinions of others. I admire her and I respect her, but I am very careful not to envy her.
Written By Laric
Aug. 31, 2016, 6:22 p.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Well, after many sore days of riding I have arrived at the capital, Arx, and what a fair city she is. Full of dapper gentlemen and fair ladies as I traverse slightly uneven cobblestones - in point of fact, I see nary an ugly face among them. So, as I carry out my assignments here as an Inquisitor, at least I will not be forced to look upon ugly, squashed faces.
I think back to dear old Berthold, may his soul rest eternally in well-deserved peace, and what he used to tell me. "Son, if you are going to do something, don't even bother if you're not going to do it well." To me, this well encapsulates the Grayson ethos and I pray it be said it encapsulates my ethos as well.
Therefore, with the tourney invitational coming up, with some sort of madcap skirmish course on the horizon, I am blessed to have the assistance of Lady Dawn and her vast coffers in finding the very best weaponry and armor that a distant Prince can ask for on such short notice.
Yes, messengers certainly do make a brisk business here, don't they? Not a minute goes by where I do not see some courier riding down the lane, even as I pen this at dusk. I have dispatched a few myself.
One to Ida, fabled champion of bloody knuckling and also a well-renowned weaponsmith. With a swiftness I could scarcely believe, she furnished me with a beautiful rapier I will use with as much alacrity as I can muster inthe match. I am certain I would be lost without her help.
Another to Eithne, who has been most kind to tender a short-notice request for forging armor, once I sent her due payment and my requests. Gareth has chosen well to sponsor her.
Ah, Gareth, the Royal Inquisitor. I fear that I have miscommunicated ill intent with the chap! I've begged to show him deference and he thinks I mock him. Perish the thought. He has been adroit with telling me my Inquisitorial business and for this I am grateful.
Sir Silas, who first invited me to go to battle on House Graysons' behalf in a friendly tournament, has been instrumental in helping me settle in. I must remember to find him a decent thank-you gift for his hospitality.
Amidst the Graysons I am showered with great help and friendship, this cannot be denied. For their companionship I am rather grateful indeed, and I have remarked as such to Faye whom has not seen fit to give me a reply, so to here I record it for posterity that she has snubbed me, for all of the kingdom to read.
However, as soon as I step outside of the Grayson's company, I find myself terribly alone and in strange lands. Therefore, to Prince Darren himself (pardon the boldness) I have addressed a message begging him to teach me the art of falconry, to which he has agreed for the promises of cask-aged whiskey. Perhaps I should not have promised what I squandered on the way here....perhaps there is a brewer that can help me save face.
Well, it has been busy but lonely as I settle in to Arx. I pray that, in the capital at least, I will not be kept too busy by bogus reports of magic influencing dice rolls or pregnancy, as has often been the case in the hinterlands.
There is much more to say, but I suppose that will suffice for now.
I think back to dear old Berthold, may his soul rest eternally in well-deserved peace, and what he used to tell me. "Son, if you are going to do something, don't even bother if you're not going to do it well." To me, this well encapsulates the Grayson ethos and I pray it be said it encapsulates my ethos as well.
Therefore, with the tourney invitational coming up, with some sort of madcap skirmish course on the horizon, I am blessed to have the assistance of Lady Dawn and her vast coffers in finding the very best weaponry and armor that a distant Prince can ask for on such short notice.
Yes, messengers certainly do make a brisk business here, don't they? Not a minute goes by where I do not see some courier riding down the lane, even as I pen this at dusk. I have dispatched a few myself.
One to Ida, fabled champion of bloody knuckling and also a well-renowned weaponsmith. With a swiftness I could scarcely believe, she furnished me with a beautiful rapier I will use with as much alacrity as I can muster inthe match. I am certain I would be lost without her help.
Another to Eithne, who has been most kind to tender a short-notice request for forging armor, once I sent her due payment and my requests. Gareth has chosen well to sponsor her.
Ah, Gareth, the Royal Inquisitor. I fear that I have miscommunicated ill intent with the chap! I've begged to show him deference and he thinks I mock him. Perish the thought. He has been adroit with telling me my Inquisitorial business and for this I am grateful.
Sir Silas, who first invited me to go to battle on House Graysons' behalf in a friendly tournament, has been instrumental in helping me settle in. I must remember to find him a decent thank-you gift for his hospitality.
Amidst the Graysons I am showered with great help and friendship, this cannot be denied. For their companionship I am rather grateful indeed, and I have remarked as such to Faye whom has not seen fit to give me a reply, so to here I record it for posterity that she has snubbed me, for all of the kingdom to read.
However, as soon as I step outside of the Grayson's company, I find myself terribly alone and in strange lands. Therefore, to Prince Darren himself (pardon the boldness) I have addressed a message begging him to teach me the art of falconry, to which he has agreed for the promises of cask-aged whiskey. Perhaps I should not have promised what I squandered on the way here....perhaps there is a brewer that can help me save face.
Well, it has been busy but lonely as I settle in to Arx. I pray that, in the capital at least, I will not be kept too busy by bogus reports of magic influencing dice rolls or pregnancy, as has often been the case in the hinterlands.
There is much more to say, but I suppose that will suffice for now.
Written By Max
Aug. 31, 2016, 3:24 p.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Before I begin, let me elaborate by saying I am not Count Maximilian Darkwater, nor am I any particular lord. I will maintain anonymity for the sake of the White Journal and the Black Reflections, as this story is not about me. While this may give clues to who I am, let it be known that the reason I write these Journals are that I am a confident of my Lord's, and that my Lord does not like writing journals. To be fair, my Lord does not like a lot of things. His appetites are for sailing, whaling, drinking, killing and sharing a kinship with those of the same interests. He's recently developed a taste for hunting, though I fear with Prince Valardin's indifference and mockery, or at least what my Lord considers such, he'll lose interest.
I was told to share my thoughts, and was sworn by the Count that no harm will come to me for speaking my mind. While I will not be doing this regarding the nobles of the Compact, I was told to write this entry of the Count himself. And so, with faith in my Lord, he is an ill-tempered man of little patience, who takes offense at jokes made at his expense unless made by those he considers friend, which is too sparse a number. He has little humor himself, and thinks very little of other people altogether, believing everyone is selfish or has ulterior motive, and believing still he's the exception that proves the rule. Still, the Count has some qualities. When he makes a promise, he usually keeps it, unless House Thrax deems otherwise, and his loyalty towards the Princes of Maelstrom seems to be his most redeeming quality.
Whatever the case, I will continue observing as I have, and writing down my impressions of what Max thinks of the various people he meets. I only hope I don't write out of turn, for the Lord's sake and mine.
Written By Eos
Aug. 31, 2016, 11:49 a.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
She is such a well-known and public figure in Arx, and I did not find Princess Isolde in personal meeting to fail that image. Rather, I found her much more, speaking with the wisdom and thoughtfulness of one who has studied, questioned, and meditated on the works of many minds. I may have over a decade on her in years, but there is much I could learn from her when it comes to the more scholarly and philosophical, or even myself when she asks questions I would never think to consider. She has also joined the list of those who have volunteered to help with my son's education to such a degree that I fear his tutor will be most put out to find himself one less pupil.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.