Written By Gwenna
April 7, 2019, 5:10 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I have always admired and respected our High Lord of Redrain, even while living those years in Farhaven. When I came to Arx, he put a lot of his faith and trust in me, assigning me roles I think I worked diligently on earning, even if it may have been after the fact. His counsel has so often been what I needed to work out some problem or issue, and I feel like I have learned a great deal over the years under his guidance and example. Then there are those times when it's not about ledgers or skirmishes on the borders, but family and those brief respites with family away from the responsibilities of the day. Days when I marvel at how affable and yet official he manages to be even in the most companionable company. It is a balance I envy and hope to learn to do myself some day. I am so very grateful to work with him as our Prince of Farhaven, but I am also exceptionally glad to call him cousin and friend.
Written By Sudara
April 7, 2019, 5 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
I had the fascinating experience of being begged to attend a royal audience, by a key figure within it - my cousin Arianna, newly minted Champion at the Tournament of Roses. She made a very public request of her boon... which, in typically Setarcan fashion, she attempted to double up into two favours, and then haggle over. The most intriguing element of this was that she was inspired by a dream: hopefully, something that will be taken as a mitigating factor for her at-times intemperate approach to pursuing it.
Written By Ouida
April 7, 2019, 4 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
The Great Hunt went well--we had a good number of those who travelled a great distance to join in. No major injuries to report, other than someone getting bitten by an angry squirrel and then a poor lord and his entourage that got lost in the fog--though even that had a rather happy ending as another hunting party found and rescued them, so in truth we had no stragglers even when the Hunt Master sounded the final horn. I was elated to see my dear Duchess-Consort Lisebet surrounded by her new family, as well as the lovely Lady Elsbetta. It seems that those that attended enjoyed themselves immensely. And I enjoyed seeing Orvyn away from his work (not that he did not bring it with him, I do not think anyone can separate it from him, in truth), and to spend some much longed for time with my sweet sister-by-marriage Sunniva.
I am glad that Lord Andreas and I took a few extra days after the Great Hunt to spend in Fair Harbour. Harvest time is a wonderful time to be here, though I think it was a little colder than Lord Andreas is accustomed to, it lent itself well to travelling to the smaller villages and outposts to visit with cousins and merchant families, as well as an opportunity to see what the rougher seas brought to the shore. Treasure hunting like this was always a favorite pastime when Orvyn and Odhran and I were children, and I cannot say that it did not have its delights still, especially as we were accompanied many times by cousins great and small and the younger children of the villages. I even tried to seek out an old friend, though I wasn't successful this time. I gave leave, that is to say made it nonnegotiable, for Niall to spend one more week with his family after our departure, as a gift to his mother, and we enjoyed one night's hospitality in the Red Trees' village, as well as visiting with those nearby.
When it was time to go, I actually found myself with a brief pang of reluctance. Is this what getting older does to a person, I wonder.
The seas on our return were starting to show the promise of winter's roughness, but for once it was of little concern to spend most of the journey below decks.
I am glad that Lord Andreas and I took a few extra days after the Great Hunt to spend in Fair Harbour. Harvest time is a wonderful time to be here, though I think it was a little colder than Lord Andreas is accustomed to, it lent itself well to travelling to the smaller villages and outposts to visit with cousins and merchant families, as well as an opportunity to see what the rougher seas brought to the shore. Treasure hunting like this was always a favorite pastime when Orvyn and Odhran and I were children, and I cannot say that it did not have its delights still, especially as we were accompanied many times by cousins great and small and the younger children of the villages. I even tried to seek out an old friend, though I wasn't successful this time. I gave leave, that is to say made it nonnegotiable, for Niall to spend one more week with his family after our departure, as a gift to his mother, and we enjoyed one night's hospitality in the Red Trees' village, as well as visiting with those nearby.
When it was time to go, I actually found myself with a brief pang of reluctance. Is this what getting older does to a person, I wonder.
The seas on our return were starting to show the promise of winter's roughness, but for once it was of little concern to spend most of the journey below decks.
Written By Perronne
April 7, 2019, 3:29 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
I wish to send the Grandmaster's second-in-command on an errand! I don't know what kind of errand, though. I could use some sticky rolls from that Uppers shop, and I would happily give him half the sticky buns as payment! Would that be alright, do you think? I mean, sure, using members of the Holy Church as errand runners is probably really offensive, but...STICKY BUNS.
Just think about it. Sticky buns.
Just think about it. Sticky buns.
Written By Mailys
April 7, 2019, 2:09 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
I'm already something of a tailor and a carpenter, but.. I think I want to dabble in jewelry, as well.
I love the way gems sparkle and catch the light, the stories they tell.
I love the way gems sparkle and catch the light, the stories they tell.
Written By Helena
April 7, 2019, 1:53 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
Dear Sleep,
I do apologize for taken you for granted. You were always there for me, eager to take me into your warm, inviting arms. I knew I could count on you, whenever the world had made me weary, to kiss my forehead and soothe me: a respite, a refuge from the cold world outside.
These days you visit me so rarely, and the time we spend is far too short. No longer a sweet respite, but quarrelsome and restless.
__
Personifications aside, I am tired of (no pun intended) insomnia and nightmares. The latter fuels the former. There are ways to avoid the dreams, but I feel it's wrong to shut myself off from them too often, when the spirits or gods or both wish to speak to me.
Who knew that being awakened to the troubles of the world would leave a person so sleepy?
I do apologize for taken you for granted. You were always there for me, eager to take me into your warm, inviting arms. I knew I could count on you, whenever the world had made me weary, to kiss my forehead and soothe me: a respite, a refuge from the cold world outside.
These days you visit me so rarely, and the time we spend is far too short. No longer a sweet respite, but quarrelsome and restless.
__
Personifications aside, I am tired of (no pun intended) insomnia and nightmares. The latter fuels the former. There are ways to avoid the dreams, but I feel it's wrong to shut myself off from them too often, when the spirits or gods or both wish to speak to me.
Who knew that being awakened to the troubles of the world would leave a person so sleepy?
Written By Domonico
April 7, 2019, 1:32 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
I thought that since becoming Voice I would not have to deal with the disciplining of individual soldiers again... how wrong I was.
Written By Ouida
April 7, 2019, 12:48 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
When I was a little girl, I often felt out of place. A giant who towered over her brothers, at least until they became men. Too wiggly and impulsive for my kind lady-mother--not the daughter who would be still for elaborate braids and who sighed for beautiful gowns and jewels. Too distracted for my lord father, with dreams and softer things.
It was on the field that I found my rhythm, and the cadence for my days. This is in no way to romanticize what I experienced there. What I did there. Though never did I step outside the bounds laid down for me by oath and intent, the truth of the matter is that nobody except those who have made their livelihood in blood will ever really understand. Sometimes it is shallow, to be sure, but there is a camaraderie there that is hard to explain. And if one allows it to grow deeper, then there is the ever present knowledge that the ones you name friend may be the ones that you will be called upon to battle, when some lord's banners are called. Some grow hollow at this. Others learn to grasp every moment of pleasure and connection, knowing of its inevitable shattering. Many never have the chance to even face it, struck down early.
It is not that I longed for the field when Orvyn recalled me to Arx. What I am is what I am, and I have little cause for shame regardless of what memories I carry. Though I enjoyed the city, and sleeping in a comfortable bed, and being surrounded by beautiful and silver-tongued women and men, and to find new friendships with those who share my vocation and those who do not, there was something missing.
I am not sure what to think of myself or of the world now that I feel that familiar cadence as things rise throughout Arvum, and I slip so easily into it as if it were a familiar glove. It ties so many things together. I used to long for other people to understand me, but I think perhaps that it is better to simply cherish what I have now. I am grateful to find pleasure in duty, that allows me to be the shield for those I love when it is needed. There is pleasure in knowing that by oath and someday by blood a connection between friends grows to an alliance. I am grateful to know that my training has not been in vain, though there is a part of me that grieves that I doubt I shall ever see a time where it is never needed.
As for the girl who once had dreams both heroic and sweet...oh how many crossroads we all face in our lives. Sometimes peace comes with understanding what we sacrifice, so that others may continue to dream, and still more will dream and build after we are in our graves. Everything in its own time. Perhaps it will not be long before new dreams rise to take the place of the old.
It was on the field that I found my rhythm, and the cadence for my days. This is in no way to romanticize what I experienced there. What I did there. Though never did I step outside the bounds laid down for me by oath and intent, the truth of the matter is that nobody except those who have made their livelihood in blood will ever really understand. Sometimes it is shallow, to be sure, but there is a camaraderie there that is hard to explain. And if one allows it to grow deeper, then there is the ever present knowledge that the ones you name friend may be the ones that you will be called upon to battle, when some lord's banners are called. Some grow hollow at this. Others learn to grasp every moment of pleasure and connection, knowing of its inevitable shattering. Many never have the chance to even face it, struck down early.
It is not that I longed for the field when Orvyn recalled me to Arx. What I am is what I am, and I have little cause for shame regardless of what memories I carry. Though I enjoyed the city, and sleeping in a comfortable bed, and being surrounded by beautiful and silver-tongued women and men, and to find new friendships with those who share my vocation and those who do not, there was something missing.
I am not sure what to think of myself or of the world now that I feel that familiar cadence as things rise throughout Arvum, and I slip so easily into it as if it were a familiar glove. It ties so many things together. I used to long for other people to understand me, but I think perhaps that it is better to simply cherish what I have now. I am grateful to find pleasure in duty, that allows me to be the shield for those I love when it is needed. There is pleasure in knowing that by oath and someday by blood a connection between friends grows to an alliance. I am grateful to know that my training has not been in vain, though there is a part of me that grieves that I doubt I shall ever see a time where it is never needed.
As for the girl who once had dreams both heroic and sweet...oh how many crossroads we all face in our lives. Sometimes peace comes with understanding what we sacrifice, so that others may continue to dream, and still more will dream and build after we are in our graves. Everything in its own time. Perhaps it will not be long before new dreams rise to take the place of the old.
Written By Alarissa
April 7, 2019, 12:47 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
Ailith calls her the tiny water droplet. Apt I think. The mercies are of a certainty, dear Dragon, that we are likely past any peril. That we may breathe.
I can breathe.
It has been a week of new beginnings. Eleyna, Imi. I found a moment in all of this to sit and speak with her. To better know her and for her to better know myself and formalize our patronage. I found out that her horse is an aging one, soon should be set to pasture. So I have been in conversation dear Dragon, with the Marquessa Cambria. I am securing her an Ostrian. A gift to start off the patronage. It was between the Blanchard Destrier or the Ostrian Courser and in truth, the Courser will be better suited. Sometimes speed over weight will be what she will need. It will take a few weeks time, but I cannot wait to see the joy on her face.
This is the perks of being the protege of one who can do such things yes?
I miss Delilah. But I couldn't keep her. Not on the path she was determined to take. I feel like this relationship will be more fulfilling and I have no doubt that she will find another patron to take her if she wishes.
For now though, I need out of the estates. Marian has arranged boar hunting and while I will not be actually partaking, I'm going to go watch the ongoings.
I can breathe.
It has been a week of new beginnings. Eleyna, Imi. I found a moment in all of this to sit and speak with her. To better know her and for her to better know myself and formalize our patronage. I found out that her horse is an aging one, soon should be set to pasture. So I have been in conversation dear Dragon, with the Marquessa Cambria. I am securing her an Ostrian. A gift to start off the patronage. It was between the Blanchard Destrier or the Ostrian Courser and in truth, the Courser will be better suited. Sometimes speed over weight will be what she will need. It will take a few weeks time, but I cannot wait to see the joy on her face.
This is the perks of being the protege of one who can do such things yes?
I miss Delilah. But I couldn't keep her. Not on the path she was determined to take. I feel like this relationship will be more fulfilling and I have no doubt that she will find another patron to take her if she wishes.
For now though, I need out of the estates. Marian has arranged boar hunting and while I will not be actually partaking, I'm going to go watch the ongoings.
Written By Khanne
April 7, 2019, 12:39 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
It's been a busy week. Feels good to have so much to do again. Had a few meetings, a gathering or two, a long-owed drink and conversation... It's been rather nice seeing some old friends again, even if some were for just a short time.
Finally preparing for the trip north, to the mountain pass of Stormwall, to honor Eirlys and remember the sacrifice she made. We'll be honoring the Spirits and the Pantheon both as well. She would have liked that, I think, and we believe it is important.
Aside from that, I am staring at a list of things that need to be done, and things I want to do and trying to figure out how to best manage my time to make the most progress across the board. Time. The perpetual juggling game.
Finally preparing for the trip north, to the mountain pass of Stormwall, to honor Eirlys and remember the sacrifice she made. We'll be honoring the Spirits and the Pantheon both as well. She would have liked that, I think, and we believe it is important.
Aside from that, I am staring at a list of things that need to be done, and things I want to do and trying to figure out how to best manage my time to make the most progress across the board. Time. The perpetual juggling game.
Written By Jace
April 7, 2019, 11:52 a.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Kaia
Interesting discussions with my friend, Lady Kaia, around attraction or repulsion. If you consider someone attractive, you should see them at their worst before you really decide if they are. For my part, if a lady can still be attracted to me after a return from better than a week at sea and before I get time to clean up, then there is definitely something there.
Written By Cambria
April 7, 2019, 11:14 a.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
All the maids are gossiping in the manor this morning. Something about a bloody baron? I don't know, but whoever he is, he's got them giggling a lot.
Written By Martino
April 7, 2019, 11:06 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Danae
Yesterday I experienced just how useful your arrival into the City has been to my own health. Your skills at producing the Malvici House fine leather already paid divided for I when practicing against the Ladies Kaia and Thea. While one did best, fortunately the superb quality you secured for my surcoat kept me quite able to fight through.
Truly, Office Danae, your arrival is a great blessing.
Truly, Office Danae, your arrival is a great blessing.
Written By Naka
April 7, 2019, 10:50 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Recently, at my own request, a friend has presented to me a short list of queries, the purpose of which is to aid in a bit of inward searching I have found the need to conduct. Many of us live our lives hiding and denying the things that discomfort and displease us. We view things in the light that is most flattering to ourselves, the selves that we have constructed for ourselves through small reinventions of our thoughts, feelings and history. Most of these reconstructions are very minor. But they are so numerous.
Accept this about yourself and you may begin to see that all are susceptible. You may recognize, and accept, and forgive. It is a large weight to hold, but it is not meant that you should keep it for long. When you see it, then set it aside.
Accept this about yourself and you may begin to see that all are susceptible. You may recognize, and accept, and forgive. It is a large weight to hold, but it is not meant that you should keep it for long. When you see it, then set it aside.
Written By Ailith
April 7, 2019, 10:48 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
These days it is no surprise that I haven't been discovered outside the walls of the Rectory. I nary have left this office save a few hours to sleep.
This afternoon, at the behest of my old friend, for one should heed a Dame, I permitted myself time with a book of tales. Nearly every Oathlander child may have been read from this book of dashing knights, chivalry, and near impossible quests. What struck me today was the ongoing theme of knights venturing forth into the woods to seek the wizened old man or woman for direction when lost or afraid.
I shut it and glanced to my friend, then asked -- Why haven't these wizened ones ever told these knights no one is going to make the quest easy. In fact, cease waiting for someone to tell you what the right thing to do is.
Each of our knights are smart. What do they think?
I believe whenever we find ourselves alone in the dark, we are compelled to seek comfort in the wise and caring. It's a security to ease our shaken beliefs or fears.
In reality, the answer was right there, within ourselves, but we have to permit ourselves the opportunity to slow down and listen before venturing forth to act.
Perhaps it is time for me to accept this lesson.
This afternoon, at the behest of my old friend, for one should heed a Dame, I permitted myself time with a book of tales. Nearly every Oathlander child may have been read from this book of dashing knights, chivalry, and near impossible quests. What struck me today was the ongoing theme of knights venturing forth into the woods to seek the wizened old man or woman for direction when lost or afraid.
I shut it and glanced to my friend, then asked -- Why haven't these wizened ones ever told these knights no one is going to make the quest easy. In fact, cease waiting for someone to tell you what the right thing to do is.
Each of our knights are smart. What do they think?
I believe whenever we find ourselves alone in the dark, we are compelled to seek comfort in the wise and caring. It's a security to ease our shaken beliefs or fears.
In reality, the answer was right there, within ourselves, but we have to permit ourselves the opportunity to slow down and listen before venturing forth to act.
Perhaps it is time for me to accept this lesson.
Written By Norwood
April 7, 2019, 10:39 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
I am well aware of proper handwashing procedure. It does not satisfy when one's hands are dry with ink however. Doing something of substance does.
Written By Norwood
April 7, 2019, 10:38 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Iliana
It is easy on the battlefield to spot the true commanders from the general masses. They are the ones running toward the problem shouting sensible things and not just screaming incoherently.
Marquessa Iliana Leary is one of those.
Marquessa Iliana Leary is one of those.
Written By Norwood
April 7, 2019, 10:35 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Olivia
I do my best to never underestimate a physician, and I do not intend to begin with Lady Olivia.
To run through a shower of arrows is no small effort. To run though them and then heal the wounded without a moment of complaint even less.
A warrior's job is easy in comparison. If done right it is finished quickly. A healer must continue long after.
To run through a shower of arrows is no small effort. To run though them and then heal the wounded without a moment of complaint even less.
A warrior's job is easy in comparison. If done right it is finished quickly. A healer must continue long after.
Written By Norwood
April 7, 2019, 10:30 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Gawain
I never had much contact with Lord Gawain before the scuffle before Cristoph's agriculture college. Judging from that single event, I can only think well of the man. He was cool under pressure, and effective. Moreover he was able to save that young Josiah before the boy could get himself killed. That was masterfully done.
I hear that Josiah has sworn to follow Lord Gawain home. May that go well.
I hear that Josiah has sworn to follow Lord Gawain home. May that go well.
Written By Norwood
April 7, 2019, 10:25 a.m.(11/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Amari
I tease my squire, Lady Amari Keaton, much too often about shooting me when she was just beginning.
The truth is that I am proud beyond words of her. She has gained in her expertise immensely and has the most important marker of a soldier: Grit. She will rise from anything that is dealt to her.
The truth is that I am proud beyond words of her. She has gained in her expertise immensely and has the most important marker of a soldier: Grit. She will rise from anything that is dealt to her.
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