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.
Written By Eos
Aug. 31, 2016, 11:47 a.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jaenelle
On the one hand, Princess Jaenelle is the sort to feed you the most horribly conceived pastries with a smile and a laugh, and delight in in the results. On the other hand, she is the sort to find ready and resolute action when the moment demands, acting fearlessly and levelly when threat arose. Even having shared in the dreaded pickle-and-cheese pastry, I find the balance of those two faces an admirable thing, and look forward to learning what other facets she holds.
Written By Eos
Aug. 31, 2016, 11:46 a.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Prospero
When I first saw Lord Prospero, his countenance and mood was such that I was certain he was of House Thrax. That, however, was swiftly disproved once he emerged from his thoughts. I have since met him on a few occasions; over wagers and alcohol - if which we both lost - and idle talk around the Hundred Cities. His plight of being beset upon by princesses amuses me to no end, and I have adopted one of his custom of favors as my own. Most recently he asked me to accompany him on an errand that turned bloody and proved his forethought wise.
I would not have expected such of the lawyer profession, to live under such threat, but then I have never given lawyers much thought at all. He conducts himself with a comfortable kind of professionalism, and I am looking forward to what might become a genuine comraderie. His mental accumen would certainly be a boon when I find myself in need of a mind sharper than mine.
I would not have expected such of the lawyer profession, to live under such threat, but then I have never given lawyers much thought at all. He conducts himself with a comfortable kind of professionalism, and I am looking forward to what might become a genuine comraderie. His mental accumen would certainly be a boon when I find myself in need of a mind sharper than mine.
Written By Eos
Aug. 31, 2016, 11:43 a.m.(6/13/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Calista
I met Lady Calista first through messenger. She reached out to me hearing of my arrival, and sent me a symbol of her sigil. I returned the gesture in the form of Saikland Cat, and we have found each other in the other's company regularly since. She is an emboldened young woman, striking to the eye, and never short on surprise. Perhaps being acquainted with such vibrant youth will keep me on my toes and make me forget the weather-ache of my knees and knuckles.
Written By Alistair
Aug. 31, 2016, 9:48 a.m.(6/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
I feel I have too many Graysons in my life. Then again I am Crownsworn, am I not? And the Graysons are the Crown. Does that make me sworn to them? Regardless, the Lady Dawn came to me with a request. I swore I would never get involved in politics. That is one thing the Abandoned have over civilization, their politics are more direct. A spear to the throat or a club to the skull, compared to dark words and knives in the shadows. She makes good points though...
Written By Isolde
Aug. 31, 2016, 9:04 a.m.(6/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Eos
Lord Eos Saik, the older brother of Lady Kima, is an intriguing man. He carries a heavy burden, and it gives him a sense of drive and determination that few see. I find I'm rather charmed by him, and look forward to speaking with him at length. Besides, his son is a studious boy. They shy denizen of the library in me is amused by that, and I could use a little protege to share my storybooks with.
Written By Brianna
Aug. 30, 2016, 10:19 p.m.(6/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
I saw him again, and not just because I was sick. Not that I saw him while I was sick, mind you; that would be ridiculous. I don't think about Victus Thrax at any period of time, especially not while ill.
I think he'd be more handsome with a shorter beard.
I think he'd be more handsome with a shorter beard.
Written By Brianna
Aug. 30, 2016, 10:18 p.m.(6/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
I had the pleasure of meeting Princess Alarissa again, on the beaches outside of Arx; she chastised me for drowning my cousin, as if I would actually kill her in the process.
Not much fun, is she? But all Valardins are a bit stodgy. Of course, she thinks otherwise. Something about a masquerade and losing the love of your life sapping the fun.
We lost Prince Sherrod. We loved Prince Sherrod. We manage still to move on and be people, not statuary that cries and chastises others.
Won't be asking her to tea any time soon.
Not much fun, is she? But all Valardins are a bit stodgy. Of course, she thinks otherwise. Something about a masquerade and losing the love of your life sapping the fun.
We lost Prince Sherrod. We loved Prince Sherrod. We manage still to move on and be people, not statuary that cries and chastises others.
Won't be asking her to tea any time soon.
Written By Brianna
Aug. 30, 2016, 9:08 p.m.(6/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Vercyn
Father's put me in charge of gathering together the masons and anyone looking to decorate -- I get to pretend I'm the Voice of Halfshav until it's over.
What do you think I should decorate it like? Wouldn't it be funny to put seashells and satin in the rooms instead of fur and iron?
I'd laugh. He'd probably disown me.
What do you think I should decorate it like? Wouldn't it be funny to put seashells and satin in the rooms instead of fur and iron?
I'd laugh. He'd probably disown me.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 30, 2016, 8:50 p.m.(6/11/1004 AR)
With Calandra being part of the Black Rose Theatre, it's no real surprise that I support the Mummers and all aspects of their work. So when I heard of Aurora Thornburn doing more accessible things, I thought to find her right away. After a few messages were exchanged, I took it upon myself to visit the shop on Lord's Lane. She's a true artist when it comes to cloth. Were I more the type to bedeck myself in fine garments instead of fine knives, I could get lost in there, really.
Written By Alistair
Aug. 29, 2016, 11:50 p.m.(6/8/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
Someone who seeks to be useful. I think she will be disappointed on my definition of useful. And I wonder if I can be useful to her. Well, will at least have some fun.
Written By Alistair
Aug. 29, 2016, 11:49 p.m.(6/8/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
She has her challenge. I wonder if at the end she will consider it worth it.
Written By Hammar
Aug. 29, 2016, 9:39 p.m.(6/8/1004 AR)
Lady Dawn say if Hammar to act as champion for her he need have somethin show he champion for her. She had Ida make Hammar a big really nice warhammer. Hammar was so happy he almost cry. Hammar not know why Lady Dawn treat so nice, but Hammar do anything he can to make her happy have Hammar around.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 29, 2016, 2:55 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Mistress Joscelin fashioned two pretty pieces of jewelry for Lady Dawn's Market Day. I greatly favored how intricate the earrings were, despite being carved of simple and common pewter. She was pleasant, with real character when I had the chance to speak with her, however briefly. I've heard nothing but high praise about her, and the fact Mistress Ida speaks so well to match only makes me want to get to know her more. I'm not exactly blessed to join them in their skills of metal-working artistry, so I hope she drinks whiskey. Always kinship to be found in that.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 29, 2016, 2:49 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Marcas
I've considered Captain Marcas a friend for awhile now. He's easy to talk with, easier to drink with, and there's something about the manner he carries himself between casual and refined company that draws out my amusement every time. But watching him unleash in the pit was something else, as well as the switch to something closer to normalcy afterwards. A fearsome man, that.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 29, 2016, 2:37 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
It was an interesting mixture of entertainment offered for the evening, with both competitors who weren't quite as expected to win pulling through with the victory.
Admiral Alrec won the Decathalon in brawling, but standing up against a man of Hammar's size was quite a feat. He won by display of brutal skill alone and it was well-done. The Ulbran is owed credit though-- the man certainly wouldn't fall and stuck through with it until the end. You can only imagine how fearsome that would've looked if he had his warhammer in hand.
Much of the bets had fallen on the Sword of Lenosia and Captain Aodh, however, and it was a fight well worth waiting for. Up until the very end, it was everything the crowd would've wanted (or at least most of the crowd) and more. It was certainly memorable and worth it for the outcome, with the Sword unleashing assaults up until the very end and very nearly taking the win himself.
The crowds varied greatly and while I won't throw it out on blast to who attended, each brought their own distinct flavor. Mistress Jessamine is owed favor for her skills, however, and I hope she was able to gain new interest in the people she assisted.
As for the clean-up, well. People cashed in for their profits and most bet quite large. And the floors were thoroughly swabbed of the blood afterward, at someone's particular bidding, and await the next contestants-- and perhaps new torches.
Admiral Alrec won the Decathalon in brawling, but standing up against a man of Hammar's size was quite a feat. He won by display of brutal skill alone and it was well-done. The Ulbran is owed credit though-- the man certainly wouldn't fall and stuck through with it until the end. You can only imagine how fearsome that would've looked if he had his warhammer in hand.
Much of the bets had fallen on the Sword of Lenosia and Captain Aodh, however, and it was a fight well worth waiting for. Up until the very end, it was everything the crowd would've wanted (or at least most of the crowd) and more. It was certainly memorable and worth it for the outcome, with the Sword unleashing assaults up until the very end and very nearly taking the win himself.
The crowds varied greatly and while I won't throw it out on blast to who attended, each brought their own distinct flavor. Mistress Jessamine is owed favor for her skills, however, and I hope she was able to gain new interest in the people she assisted.
As for the clean-up, well. People cashed in for their profits and most bet quite large. And the floors were thoroughly swabbed of the blood afterward, at someone's particular bidding, and await the next contestants-- and perhaps new torches.
Written By Ida
Aug. 29, 2016, 12:06 p.m.(6/7/1004 AR)
I am reminded to write about how I suppose I started down the path of pugilism. I hadn't really though on it much, if at all, until Mistress Acacia asked me about it. Funny how things like that are not so much forgotten, but put to the side of the mind somewhere until someone calls it forth, out of the blue. I am no knight and never will be. I am, however, Valardin. Due to my trade and, I suppose, my natural size (maybe one lead to the other? Who knows?), I have been strong since my teens. I never could stand people who used their power or strength against those who could not hope to counter such things. I still can not. Whether a Valardin virtue or just my own personal one, I feel that if you going to pick on someone, it better be on someone of your own size or bigger. There's no honor otherwise. And if I catch you doing so? You should be prepared that I may decide to step in. Which, I suppose, is partly how I ended up furthering my skills with my hands as well as the anvil.
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