Written By Neviah
Nov. 20, 2023, 10:22 a.m.(3/22/1021 AR)
When tucked into
Its right soil
A seed
Will root.
Its right soil
A seed
Will root.
Written By Duarte
Nov. 19, 2023, 11:41 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Journal
Vividly I recall the meeting that would shift my life's trajectory. It was one hot summer morning when Duke Piero summoned me into his study. It was earlier than usual and the House page hastily interrupted my morning ablutions. To be fair, he waited a good twenty minutes first - but what can I say? A mustache such as mine requires a fair amount of tending to.
Duke Piero's personality stood in stark contrast to the typical underhanded ambiance of the Lyceum. He was kind and he was a gentle soul. He had the misfortune of being placed in a land where such traits are often perceived as weakness rather than virtues. In time, his desire to forge a reputation for his House which stood contrary to generations of legacy would place Pravus in a precarious position - a history we all know well. Were it not for his wife, Duchess Lucia, the Duke would not have lasted long as he did.
But Duke Piero, for all these faults, tied his House together and taught them to be true to themselves and to trust in family above all. For this lesson, he will never be forgotten. It is, as they say in Malespero, "from tragedy, strength."
But I digress...
When I met with Duke Piero that day I sensed the weight of the man's struggles. He had tolerated far too much and his leniency was beginning to embolden dangerous ambitions on the part of his enemies. Now was not the time to send his chief spy to a foreign land, and yet, "Duarte, I need you in Arx."
My assignment to Arx was layered with complexity. On one hand, the Duke and Duchess saw it as a strategic placement to ensure they were kept well informed of the goings on in the capital whilst they dealt with matters at home. On the other hand, his waning ability to command respect and authority within his holdings was precisely the reason I should never have been sent away. Perhaps, he was seeking to better fortify Pravus' position by sending me to a realm where he could not inspire fear or loyalty from afar - to have me keep a watchful eye over his representatives and ensure they were sticking to scripts and acting in the best interests of the House.
As my ship sailed in ear to Arx, I recall how the city presented itself as a colossal entity. The grandeur of its architecture and its division into its myriad wards - each with their distinct character and purpose - intertwined in such a way to present an irresistible testament to the shared stories and (dare I say?) destinies within its walls.
These wards each proclaimed a glory and heritage of the Great Houses and yet stood as a reminder of the fragile balance of power that pervades the Compact to this day.
The Lower Boroughs was where I found my home away from home. Though I served as Minister to House Pravus, the draw to of the boroughs, and its people the backbone of the city, reminded me of my beginnings. Life there is lived in a raw and vibrant form that none but the denizens can truly appreciate, or suffer - as the case may be. Often is.
Much like the court in Setarco, in Arx every gesture and alliance, and every whisper, held significance. But the game of power is played with much less finesse. It came as a culture shock. I had only known Setarco - a small fraction of the greater Lyceum. Living in Arx, beyond the Pravus Manor and Lyceum Ward, was much like starting anew. Like those days I stood outside the gates of the House of Silken Sighs, admiring the Suspires from afar, I was once again an outsider observing a dance not all the same as the one to which I had become so accustomed. Indeed, it was no dance at all, but a mishmash of waltzes and carols and ballets all being performed simultaneously, each to different music, at the same time and on the same stage.
In many ways, my life as I know it did not start until I set foot on Arx's harbor.
And to add to the intricate complexities of my assignment and the overwhelming confusion of being thrown into this melting pot of culture was also something else. For it was in Arx where I met Shreve.
And also Lianne.
Vividly I recall the meeting that would shift my life's trajectory. It was one hot summer morning when Duke Piero summoned me into his study. It was earlier than usual and the House page hastily interrupted my morning ablutions. To be fair, he waited a good twenty minutes first - but what can I say? A mustache such as mine requires a fair amount of tending to.
Duke Piero's personality stood in stark contrast to the typical underhanded ambiance of the Lyceum. He was kind and he was a gentle soul. He had the misfortune of being placed in a land where such traits are often perceived as weakness rather than virtues. In time, his desire to forge a reputation for his House which stood contrary to generations of legacy would place Pravus in a precarious position - a history we all know well. Were it not for his wife, Duchess Lucia, the Duke would not have lasted long as he did.
But Duke Piero, for all these faults, tied his House together and taught them to be true to themselves and to trust in family above all. For this lesson, he will never be forgotten. It is, as they say in Malespero, "from tragedy, strength."
But I digress...
When I met with Duke Piero that day I sensed the weight of the man's struggles. He had tolerated far too much and his leniency was beginning to embolden dangerous ambitions on the part of his enemies. Now was not the time to send his chief spy to a foreign land, and yet, "Duarte, I need you in Arx."
My assignment to Arx was layered with complexity. On one hand, the Duke and Duchess saw it as a strategic placement to ensure they were kept well informed of the goings on in the capital whilst they dealt with matters at home. On the other hand, his waning ability to command respect and authority within his holdings was precisely the reason I should never have been sent away. Perhaps, he was seeking to better fortify Pravus' position by sending me to a realm where he could not inspire fear or loyalty from afar - to have me keep a watchful eye over his representatives and ensure they were sticking to scripts and acting in the best interests of the House.
As my ship sailed in ear to Arx, I recall how the city presented itself as a colossal entity. The grandeur of its architecture and its division into its myriad wards - each with their distinct character and purpose - intertwined in such a way to present an irresistible testament to the shared stories and (dare I say?) destinies within its walls.
These wards each proclaimed a glory and heritage of the Great Houses and yet stood as a reminder of the fragile balance of power that pervades the Compact to this day.
The Lower Boroughs was where I found my home away from home. Though I served as Minister to House Pravus, the draw to of the boroughs, and its people the backbone of the city, reminded me of my beginnings. Life there is lived in a raw and vibrant form that none but the denizens can truly appreciate, or suffer - as the case may be. Often is.
Much like the court in Setarco, in Arx every gesture and alliance, and every whisper, held significance. But the game of power is played with much less finesse. It came as a culture shock. I had only known Setarco - a small fraction of the greater Lyceum. Living in Arx, beyond the Pravus Manor and Lyceum Ward, was much like starting anew. Like those days I stood outside the gates of the House of Silken Sighs, admiring the Suspires from afar, I was once again an outsider observing a dance not all the same as the one to which I had become so accustomed. Indeed, it was no dance at all, but a mishmash of waltzes and carols and ballets all being performed simultaneously, each to different music, at the same time and on the same stage.
In many ways, my life as I know it did not start until I set foot on Arx's harbor.
And to add to the intricate complexities of my assignment and the overwhelming confusion of being thrown into this melting pot of culture was also something else. For it was in Arx where I met Shreve.
And also Lianne.
Written By Raven
Nov. 19, 2023, 10:30 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
If you are curious about Mirrormask or the thirteenth then visit a shrine. We are not here to judge and there is nothing here to fear.
Written By Jan
Nov. 19, 2023, 10:17 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
I am officially over Winter. I was coping fine but I am not ready for spring.
Written By Raven
Nov. 19, 2023, 10:14 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
The Golden Hart is a treasure of the compact. If you like lovely people and lovely places get to know the Golden Hart!
Written By Giada
Nov. 19, 2023, 10:13 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Fragility is unendingly fascinating, be it fears or egos.
Written By Umbroise
Nov. 19, 2023, 9:42 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
I had the most marvelous time this evening at the Golden Hart. Princess Renata Pravus, Archduke Patrizio Pravus, and Prince Theo Velanosa hosted a lovely meet-and-greet for those seeking patronage relationships. Valencia, too, was such a kind and attentive hostess.
While I don't think anyone has jumped into a patron/protege relationship right away, it certainly has laid the foundation for meeting others with that potential goal in mind. Perhaps I have been too lax in my own search. Regardless, it was such a pleasure meeting so many new (to me) faces, and re-acquainting with others. The Golden Hart shall certainly see my return on many occasions.
While I don't think anyone has jumped into a patron/protege relationship right away, it certainly has laid the foundation for meeting others with that potential goal in mind. Perhaps I have been too lax in my own search. Regardless, it was such a pleasure meeting so many new (to me) faces, and re-acquainting with others. The Golden Hart shall certainly see my return on many occasions.
Written By Mirari
Nov. 19, 2023, 8:13 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Crack, pop, sizzle and burn.
Written By Preston
Nov. 19, 2023, 7:07 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Preparations proceed. It is nice to have our main marching force being brought up to strength - and the kind donation of House Saik has paid for one of our new trebuchets that Dame Ida is construction.
The Caravels, well. I have never spent much of my allowance from the Faith, or any of the items gathered for it. It seemed worthwhile to spend resource in such a fashion.
The Caravels, well. I have never spent much of my allowance from the Faith, or any of the items gathered for it. It seemed worthwhile to spend resource in such a fashion.
Written By Denica
Nov. 19, 2023, 6:17 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Listen to that little voice inside of you. You know more than you think. You are beautiful and strong. There is nothing you cannot do.
Smile and be brave, everything will fall into place. And if it doesn't? It's not going to change who you are, if you don't let it.
Smile and be brave, everything will fall into place. And if it doesn't? It's not going to change who you are, if you don't let it.
Written By Martino
Nov. 19, 2023, 6:13 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
New perfume, seems to have been well received.
Keeping that one out on the side a little more then.
Keeping that one out on the side a little more then.
Written By Isolde
Nov. 19, 2023, 5:14 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Regardless of whatever may happen in these coming weeks, the Shrine of the Thirteenth is still the perfect place for one to express personal concerns and doubts.
Written By Amari
Nov. 19, 2023, 5:04 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
There are absolutely no rodents of unusual size anyone need be worried about in Reveillon. The matter was satisfactorily resolved, and the poor farmer recompensed for the damage to his barn and the loss of his nuts. I thank everyone who lent a hand, sang a song, stitched a costume with incredible haste, wrangled a squirrel or otherwise gave support.
As an aside, I was honestly surprised the odd little rumor had spread so quickly and as far as Arx. That people would even journey to Reveillon for that reason alone, was also something of a shock.
Now to be clear, I consider the matter finished and have determined that the incident was a blessing of Petrichor and not something borne of any kind of evil. Therefore, be not concerned and focus on the true darkness that we find abounding in these days. The Shadowood is filled with many dangers, but agitated squirrels making a feast of a farmer's acorn stores are one of the least to be worried over.
As an aside, I was honestly surprised the odd little rumor had spread so quickly and as far as Arx. That people would even journey to Reveillon for that reason alone, was also something of a shock.
Now to be clear, I consider the matter finished and have determined that the incident was a blessing of Petrichor and not something borne of any kind of evil. Therefore, be not concerned and focus on the true darkness that we find abounding in these days. The Shadowood is filled with many dangers, but agitated squirrels making a feast of a farmer's acorn stores are one of the least to be worried over.
Written By Avita
Nov. 19, 2023, 4:30 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Dearest Diary,
I've learned something.
When you feel as though you have heard every story there is...
... We must simply write our own.
Allow me to begin:
Once upon a time...
I've learned something.
When you feel as though you have heard every story there is...
... We must simply write our own.
Allow me to begin:
Once upon a time...
Written By Avita
Nov. 19, 2023, 4:04 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Dear Diary,
I feel as though I've seen your face a thousand, thousand times by now, and yet I could not even begin to reach for your name within my memory.
Should I try, the closer I am to remembering, the more your features drift into that hazy periphery of my imagination.
Were your eyes green?
Were they blue?
The dimple in your cheeks ... left... or right?
How I wish it mattered.
I feel as though I've seen your face a thousand, thousand times by now, and yet I could not even begin to reach for your name within my memory.
Should I try, the closer I am to remembering, the more your features drift into that hazy periphery of my imagination.
Were your eyes green?
Were they blue?
The dimple in your cheeks ... left... or right?
How I wish it mattered.
Written By Avita
Nov. 19, 2023, 3:49 p.m.(3/21/1021 AR)
Dear Diary,
I am fascinated, in some small measure, by the attention paid to the far-away in this place.
Foreign lands, forgotten languages, creeds, creatures...
So few understand even what is upon their doorsteps, let alone in the courtyard that sprawls before them.
For example, what do you REALLY know about the Saffron?
I am fascinated, in some small measure, by the attention paid to the far-away in this place.
Foreign lands, forgotten languages, creeds, creatures...
So few understand even what is upon their doorsteps, let alone in the courtyard that sprawls before them.
For example, what do you REALLY know about the Saffron?
Written By Kastelon
Nov. 19, 2023, 11:20 a.m.(3/20/1021 AR)
I was once told that cows kill more people than sharks.
I'd always thought it'd be a cow that would do me in. Didn't think it would be a squirrel.
I blame my cousin.
I'd always thought it'd be a cow that would do me in. Didn't think it would be a squirrel.
I blame my cousin.
Written By Ann
Nov. 18, 2023, 10:44 p.m.(3/19/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I see you, cousin mine. Thank you for showing up and letting me see your lightness. Even if it was ever brief. I haven't forgotten.
Written By Renata
Nov. 18, 2023, 3:25 p.m.(3/19/1021 AR)
I sang a lullaby... No. Let me start over, this needs further explanation. They might think me mad if it wasn't for the others who did an amazing job in calming and protecting the squirrels and farms.
I didn't go to the Oathlands thinking that I would be singing for a trio of squirrels. Nor did I think they would be throwing nuts at those of us which showed up. Nor did I think I would see Champion Caspian Wild riding upon back of a squirrel as if it was a horse. Nor did I expect to see an expertly sewn costume of acorn to be created then ran within to give chase for said squirrels...
There was a lot that I did not think I would witness within the Oathlands on this visit.
However, it was pleasing to see those from all walks of life, from many fealties coming together to work into a solution which did not involve harming the unusually large rodents with bushy tails. They were far too fluffy and adorable. Aside from when they were throwing nuts at us.
I didn't go to the Oathlands thinking that I would be singing for a trio of squirrels. Nor did I think they would be throwing nuts at those of us which showed up. Nor did I think I would see Champion Caspian Wild riding upon back of a squirrel as if it was a horse. Nor did I expect to see an expertly sewn costume of acorn to be created then ran within to give chase for said squirrels...
There was a lot that I did not think I would witness within the Oathlands on this visit.
However, it was pleasing to see those from all walks of life, from many fealties coming together to work into a solution which did not involve harming the unusually large rodents with bushy tails. They were far too fluffy and adorable. Aside from when they were throwing nuts at us.
Written By Mabelle
Nov. 18, 2023, 10:55 a.m.(3/18/1021 AR)
Roses are red,
Violets are blue.
Bees prefer blue flowers,
Stop sending me roses.
Violets are blue.
Bees prefer blue flowers,
Stop sending me roses.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.