Written By Medeia
June 21, 2023, 2:52 p.m.(1/13/1020 AR)
I have generally held that people are often more alike than different. Yet some differences seem to be enough to have us tearing each other down. It is in the moments when we find the similarities that we bridge the gaps between us.
Learning that someone also spent their childhood dashing barefoot through an orchard is perhaps not so strange a thing - there have been people and orchards and children for generations upon generations. Even so, it is such a delightful thing to learn about another person, especially when that person was raised speaking another language in a land far from your own.
I am ever more ready for time in the gardens and vineyards after winter.
Learning that someone also spent their childhood dashing barefoot through an orchard is perhaps not so strange a thing - there have been people and orchards and children for generations upon generations. Even so, it is such a delightful thing to learn about another person, especially when that person was raised speaking another language in a land far from your own.
I am ever more ready for time in the gardens and vineyards after winter.
Written By Titus
June 20, 2023, 11:54 p.m.(1/12/1020 AR)
Children of Sangris, we acknowledge that in the Red City discipline and stoicism are revered virtues. That we find wisdom in the art of controlling our emotions. It is not a matter of suppressing our innermost feelings, for they are an inherent part of our existence, but rather mastering the art of emotional control. To be led by our emotions is to relinquish the reins of our own destiny and render ourselves incapable of guiding others.
Emotions, whether love or hate, possess a profound power to shape our perception of the world and our place within it. If we allow ourselves to be consumed by hatred, we surrender our inner peace and become entangled in a web of defeat. Hatred blinds us to reason and clouds our judgment, leading us astray from the path of wisdom and virtue. But foolishly being overcome by love or lust will blind us to the weaknesses of others, and by being blind we will not be there to help them when they need it most.
In the great tapestry of life, our thoughts hold the power to weave the fabric of our being. We are the architects of our own destiny, sculpting our character and molding our future through the thoughts we choose to nurture. By directing our minds towards noble pursuits and virtuous ideals, we transform ourselves into vessels of greatness and integrity.
Let us, then, embrace the discipline of thought and the mastery of emotion. Through diligent practice and self-awareness, we can develop the ability to control the time, manner, audience, and means of emotional expression. By doing so, we elevate ourselves above the whims of transient passions and forge a path of enlightened leadership.
We understand that true strength lies not in the suppression of emotions, but in the mastery of their influence. As we cultivate a calm and focused mind, we transcend the limitations imposed by external circumstances and become the masters of our own destinies. Let us remember that we are the architects of our thoughts and emotions, shaping our lives with intention and purpose.
May we strive to harness the power of our minds and emotions, aligning them with the noble virtues of the Red City. In doing so, we rise above the ordinary and become beacons of inspiration and wisdom like the bonfire upon the top of the Temple of Pyros in a world often governed by chaotic passions.
Emotions, whether love or hate, possess a profound power to shape our perception of the world and our place within it. If we allow ourselves to be consumed by hatred, we surrender our inner peace and become entangled in a web of defeat. Hatred blinds us to reason and clouds our judgment, leading us astray from the path of wisdom and virtue. But foolishly being overcome by love or lust will blind us to the weaknesses of others, and by being blind we will not be there to help them when they need it most.
In the great tapestry of life, our thoughts hold the power to weave the fabric of our being. We are the architects of our own destiny, sculpting our character and molding our future through the thoughts we choose to nurture. By directing our minds towards noble pursuits and virtuous ideals, we transform ourselves into vessels of greatness and integrity.
Let us, then, embrace the discipline of thought and the mastery of emotion. Through diligent practice and self-awareness, we can develop the ability to control the time, manner, audience, and means of emotional expression. By doing so, we elevate ourselves above the whims of transient passions and forge a path of enlightened leadership.
We understand that true strength lies not in the suppression of emotions, but in the mastery of their influence. As we cultivate a calm and focused mind, we transcend the limitations imposed by external circumstances and become the masters of our own destinies. Let us remember that we are the architects of our thoughts and emotions, shaping our lives with intention and purpose.
May we strive to harness the power of our minds and emotions, aligning them with the noble virtues of the Red City. In doing so, we rise above the ordinary and become beacons of inspiration and wisdom like the bonfire upon the top of the Temple of Pyros in a world often governed by chaotic passions.
Written By Titus
June 20, 2023, 11:51 p.m.(1/12/1020 AR)
"How is all of this out there for us to contend with when every day we have people succumbing to entirely mundane things - lack of food, exposure to the cold, accidental grievous injury?" asked the lady to the knight.
The knight replied. "My lady, your words echo the reality of our world. Injustices, challenges, and hurts surround us, painting a tapestry of harshness. The yellow waters and thorns you speak of symbolize the abandoned and cursed aspects of our existence. It is true, the world can be a daunting and unforgiving place."
"However, it is precisely because of these realities that we must hold onto hope. Like a guiding star of our ancestors in the night sky, hope illuminates our path, allowing us to rise above the everyday struggles and aspire to something greater. We have the power to transcend the limitations imposed upon us by the world and make a positive difference, however small it may be."
"Though we witness people succumbing to mundane hardships, such as lack of food, exposure to the cold, or accidental injuries, it is in our collective resolve to address these issues that lies the potential for change. By lending our strength and compassion to those in need, we can alleviate suffering and create a world that is a little bit better, step by step. And what journey ever hoped to reach the end without taking a single step in the right direction? The overwhelming feeling of trying to feed the thousands is hard, but we can as you've shown, choose to help even one individual."
"In the face of adversity, we must not lose sight of our purpose and the potential for transformation. It is through our actions, guided by hope and fueled by our shared determination, that we can sow seeds of positive change and bring light to the darkness. The Compact demands that we strive to uplift those around us, extend our empathy, and work towards a future where the harsh realities are softened by the collective efforts of compassionate souls."
"You will one day pass on your stories to your daughter and they will pass on to their daughters your stories and their stories combined. Like the mote of light that shined so faintly at the beginning in the Heart below and now shines brighter than the sun with all those who have been touched by the Heart's sacrifice, I'm positive you will leave the world a brighter place."
The knight replied. "My lady, your words echo the reality of our world. Injustices, challenges, and hurts surround us, painting a tapestry of harshness. The yellow waters and thorns you speak of symbolize the abandoned and cursed aspects of our existence. It is true, the world can be a daunting and unforgiving place."
"However, it is precisely because of these realities that we must hold onto hope. Like a guiding star of our ancestors in the night sky, hope illuminates our path, allowing us to rise above the everyday struggles and aspire to something greater. We have the power to transcend the limitations imposed upon us by the world and make a positive difference, however small it may be."
"Though we witness people succumbing to mundane hardships, such as lack of food, exposure to the cold, or accidental injuries, it is in our collective resolve to address these issues that lies the potential for change. By lending our strength and compassion to those in need, we can alleviate suffering and create a world that is a little bit better, step by step. And what journey ever hoped to reach the end without taking a single step in the right direction? The overwhelming feeling of trying to feed the thousands is hard, but we can as you've shown, choose to help even one individual."
"In the face of adversity, we must not lose sight of our purpose and the potential for transformation. It is through our actions, guided by hope and fueled by our shared determination, that we can sow seeds of positive change and bring light to the darkness. The Compact demands that we strive to uplift those around us, extend our empathy, and work towards a future where the harsh realities are softened by the collective efforts of compassionate souls."
"You will one day pass on your stories to your daughter and they will pass on to their daughters your stories and their stories combined. Like the mote of light that shined so faintly at the beginning in the Heart below and now shines brighter than the sun with all those who have been touched by the Heart's sacrifice, I'm positive you will leave the world a brighter place."
Written By Medeia
June 20, 2023, 6:22 p.m.(1/12/1020 AR)
I had reason to be out in the weather today and saw that Heart of Stone was open on my way to the market. Cufre's work is always worth stopping to admire, and I think I would have come out to see these citrine and aquamarine beauties on purpose in the snow! I love how she combined these disparate stones. It is even more amazing that she created different necklaces to match the rings!
I hope that others go and spoil themselves with her creations. She is such a talent.
I hope that others go and spoil themselves with her creations. She is such a talent.
Written By Ryhalt
June 19, 2023, 10:19 p.m.(1/10/1020 AR)
I admit, I was a bit cruel when I helped that bitch. Some people truly have no thought that how they treat others may end up costing them their life. Still, winning a race at the cost of a life isn't what I could do.
Written By Lyra
June 19, 2023, 3:22 a.m.(1/8/1020 AR)
A trip home to Cedar Vale is always refreshing, though as wonderful as it is to be back in Arx amongst my friends, I feel sorrow that I had to relinquish the companionship of my darling peahen Eugenie.
In her stead I have brought with me a cinder kitten, though with the breed being renowned for their independence and bloody-mindedness, training will be a trial I'm sure. Thick leather gloves are perhaps a wise purchase.
In her stead I have brought with me a cinder kitten, though with the breed being renowned for their independence and bloody-mindedness, training will be a trial I'm sure. Thick leather gloves are perhaps a wise purchase.
Written By Delia
June 18, 2023, 6:41 p.m.(1/8/1020 AR)
What a fun way to learn more about the other cultures and to sample their wears!
Written By Lucita
June 18, 2023, 6:19 p.m.(1/8/1020 AR)
Relationship Note on Denica
Amazing artistry!
Written By Raymesin
June 18, 2023, 4:34 p.m.(1/8/1020 AR)
I hate winter, Scholar. Snow whistling around the streets and straight down the back of my neck, ice forming everywhere especially where you don't want it, and people saying that the city looks so much better like this. Try the Lowers - half the snow is yellow or grey thanks to the soot of thousands of chimneys, while the other half is slush under the wheels of carts and the feet of people. That slush gets pressed into ice, and freezes solid, and sometimes when you stand on it you go through to whatever's beneath it - which is usually unpleasant, as the rain usually cleans the streets and there is no rain to do that in winter. At least the smell is kept to a reasonable level, that's the most pleasant thing I can say of it.
Written By Medeia
June 18, 2023, 11:55 a.m.(1/7/1020 AR)
Princess Denica's mural on the ceiling of the Elysian Ballroom at Whisper House is stunning. Truly unparalleled artistry! The details are fine, the blending of stories masterful. I am uncertain if I became dizzy due to its magnificence or having to tilt my head back so long to admire it - I think Lucita's suggestion to put chaise lounges in the ballroom is an excellent one. It was absolutely worth traipsing across the Sovereign in such snowy conditions, and I am thankful to Radiant Aconite for her gracious hospitality.
Written By Magaen
June 18, 2023, 1:53 a.m.(1/6/1020 AR)
A few days ago, Trevor overheard us talking over preparations to return to Glacial Grove at the city's first thaw. Since, his nurse has come to me daily to tell of his troubled sleep. It will be months away yet, but that isn't a comfort so long as he knows we are still going. One day he will grow used to it. Sooner than most, I hope, for not having the memory of any home other than the one we've made here. Until then, I can spend a few nights sleeping in a chair in his room. The Gilded Page has piles of stories I can try to distract him with.
Written By Lucita
June 17, 2023, 10:15 a.m.(1/5/1020 AR)
A cold wintery evening spent musing about the past and future with an old friend. I've spent worse evenings!
Written By Mabelle
June 15, 2023, 11:24 a.m.(1/1/1020 AR)
Oh how I've missed my furs.
Written By Jan
June 15, 2023, 10:40 a.m.(1/1/1020 AR)
What is it about temptation that makes us so willfully forgetful of pain or regret? Knowing something will hurt you and yet still being drawn in. Is it a human condition or do all sentients struggle with this nonsense. Maybe this time I will learn.
Written By Medeia
June 14, 2023, 9:43 p.m.(12/28/1019 AR)
It had been too long since I last sat a spell in the shrine of the Queen of Endings. I certainly owed her some time. It seems I still have the ability to remain still enough that the spiders eventually end up in my hair. Getting them out when leaving required the aid of a disciple.
How very odd it was to regard the skulls - especially those for the people I have cared about - and note the changes in my life since last I sat and looked at them. It makes me grateful that I still have the opportunity for change.
Once, I cared very much about making my uncle proud. Then, I cared very much about avenging him. Now? I am uncertain if I did either. I am further uncertain if it matters if I did or did not make him proud or avenge him.
There are so many living people - and spiders - to be concerned with.
How very odd it was to regard the skulls - especially those for the people I have cared about - and note the changes in my life since last I sat and looked at them. It makes me grateful that I still have the opportunity for change.
Once, I cared very much about making my uncle proud. Then, I cared very much about avenging him. Now? I am uncertain if I did either. I am further uncertain if it matters if I did or did not make him proud or avenge him.
There are so many living people - and spiders - to be concerned with.
Written By Agric
June 14, 2023, 7:36 a.m.(12/27/1019 AR)
Whenever I have time to visit the Shrine of the Queen of Endings, I am struck by the brilliance of the memorial wall. Each skull is so masterfully made and full of meaning. It is truly artwork worth revisiting.
Written By Elsbetta
June 14, 2023, 2:53 a.m.(12/26/1019 AR)
Along with the correspondence on my desk this morning was a beautifully wrapped gift. I do so love gifts, most especially the unexpected ones. The layers of wrappings were quickly dispatched to reveal a starlight silk fan that glittered with the adornment of gems. A note enclosed revealed the sender to be Lady Mabelle Laurent whom is fast becoming a friend. The most surprising thing about it all however is that the fan was crafted by Dame Ida Ferron. I can quite see how such a thing of beauty could be an effective weapon in the right hands, so shall start with attempting to decapitate a candle by swishing and swooping it around.
Written By Jan
June 13, 2023, 11:04 p.m.(12/26/1019 AR)
There was an easier way to make boundaries and loyalties clear. I wonder if I will decide things anything other than the hard way.
Written By Magaen
June 11, 2023, 9:31 p.m.(12/22/1019 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
Sometimes the need to indulge is undeniable. If we were not in the Thirteen Days, I might allow myself a feeling of regret. It is not the season, and it is not a necessity. Yet, I marvel and celebrate.
Written By Cassiopeia
June 11, 2023, 8:20 p.m.(12/22/1019 AR)
It's time to start layering mittens and doubling up my scarves.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.