Written By Niklas
Jan. 27, 2019, 5:23 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jennyva
Want another bird?
Written By Cristoph
Jan. 27, 2019, 5:12 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Over a year ago, I had the idea to take a sizable portion of land in the Oathlands and convert it over to become a massively sized project. A school of agriculture, where we could focus on the foundations of farming and animal husbandry. Where brilliant minds in the field could come together and study problems unique not only to the Oathlands, but possibly to other regions in the Compact. We could employ people from all walks of life and teach those with talent in the field, giving them the opportunity to become even more knowledgeable. Something that could change the way we work with the land and how to provide for our people.
And then things happened and I shelved the project, pushing it to the back of my mind as I focused on what felt more important at the time. In doing so I let myself forget that what truly makes Artshall strong is our desire to preserve, to become bold and to rise from the ashes of destruction to something better. Surely, we have troubles that we can not ignore. But we also can't allow them to muddle our ambitions or dampen our spirits to the point we become mired down in the fight.
I look forward to what the next year of changes is going to bring.
And then things happened and I shelved the project, pushing it to the back of my mind as I focused on what felt more important at the time. In doing so I let myself forget that what truly makes Artshall strong is our desire to preserve, to become bold and to rise from the ashes of destruction to something better. Surely, we have troubles that we can not ignore. But we also can't allow them to muddle our ambitions or dampen our spirits to the point we become mired down in the fight.
I look forward to what the next year of changes is going to bring.
Written By Nurie
Jan. 27, 2019, 4:46 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
This last turning of the seasons has been unexpectedly melancholy of me. Though I love it here in Arx, perhaps it has just been enough time away from Iriscal, and all the little familiar comforts (and perils!) of home that all the changes started to pull and tug and wear on me even though I scarcely knew it. Even in the midst of such excitement, and even though I have my most best loved in the world sister with me here, sometimes being between one world and another, in an environment that seems foreign...it is a profoundly lonely place.
But the gift received last week at least provides me with one more excuse to leave the house! And with the warmth now returned, and being able to walk and feel the sun's smile upon my skin without four layers of wool between us, and also feeling as if I have taken at least one of my greatest fears a little more in hand, I feel more like myself than I have in weeks. My heart and mind are inspired, and my hands are active again in my workshop, and in just a few days I will be able to share what I've been working on in the shop!
But the gift received last week at least provides me with one more excuse to leave the house! And with the warmth now returned, and being able to walk and feel the sun's smile upon my skin without four layers of wool between us, and also feeling as if I have taken at least one of my greatest fears a little more in hand, I feel more like myself than I have in weeks. My heart and mind are inspired, and my hands are active again in my workshop, and in just a few days I will be able to share what I've been working on in the shop!
Written By Orrin
Jan. 27, 2019, 4:40 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
I must admit I find myself at quite a loss for how we might interface with any of these emissaries that come to our shores. Of course, I have my own thoughts on preferable courses of action, and those I disprefer; but I find my grounding itself lacking. Shall I be called provincial, because I can scarcely keep straight where is Eurus, and where is Cardia, and from which each emissary hails, and their respective offerings? Glad I am that it falls to others to decide, but also dismayed. For Pearlspire, or her people at least, freedom is a rare new gift, a coin I fear others will spend more readily than I.
I shall keep my faith in the gods, my liege, and our king; may they see us true.
I shall keep my faith in the gods, my liege, and our king; may they see us true.
Written By Venturo
Jan. 27, 2019, 3:53 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
As spring comes to a close, the last of the reserved offerings have been put up for sale in the Raconteur. We have both a lovely and unique cider, along with bottles of something a bit stronger that has a hidden kick to it.
Written By Sabine
Jan. 27, 2019, 3:36 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Another month to be spent waiting in silent judgment. These days hone the steel of my patience far more effectively than any forge possibly could.
Written By Arik
Jan. 27, 2019, 3:36 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
In all of the turmoil of the assembly of peers, I wonder where our allies by treaty are? Should the Nox'Alfar not have presented some semblance of interest in our affairs? The Marin'Alfar are also seeking a treaty did they not come to speak at the assembly of peers? Is there a reason that two groups both of which we share the land and sea of Avrum with remain silent while foreign powers come with gauntlet gloves in silk?
Should we accept the Cardian's what of the Twilight Grove? Should we accept the Undying Empire what of the northern foes deep in Everwinter, his kin?
Should we accept the Cardian's what of the Twilight Grove? Should we accept the Undying Empire what of the northern foes deep in Everwinter, his kin?
Written By Ouida
Jan. 27, 2019, 2:06 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
And just like that, something that I once feared and avoided even thinking about becomes something that I anticipate with joy. There is a little bittersweetness in letting go of one's final childish dreams go--but perhaps more sweet than bitter if one focuses upon the excitement and potential of finding new ones to hold in one's heart.
Written By Ouida
Jan. 27, 2019, 2:02 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Though I am not terribly excited about the reasons behind them, I will admit that the best part of the current state of the Compact has been the discussions that I have been fortunate to attend and participate in with those from almost every conceivable station and path, both public and in private.
I have seen many discussions of gains, and what might be lost, physically, morally, spiritually. But the missing piece that I have found in almost every single one is this: who will you sacrifice? Because there always is a sacrifice to be made, and many times it is not who you envision. Even a battlefield commander knows that not only must you keep the goal within your thoughts, and the method, but you also need to know what you /will/ sacrifice when the time comes. And who.
So many people I have spoken to would say "I would sacrifice no one and nothing of import!" And that is on the surface an honorable sentiment and one that I think is what most of us would choose to tell ourselves in our hearts. But realistically, in times of dire danger, sometimes being unable to sacrifice anything actually means sacrificing everything. We oft like to think that our intentions matter over everything else. But my experience is that those most harmed by one's good and even right intentions are rarely grateful for it. It takes strength, courage, and humility to be able to bear witness to the suffering one has caused by their good intentions. Regardless of what is chosen, I wonder if we are prepared to do just that. I hope so, together.
I have seen many discussions of gains, and what might be lost, physically, morally, spiritually. But the missing piece that I have found in almost every single one is this: who will you sacrifice? Because there always is a sacrifice to be made, and many times it is not who you envision. Even a battlefield commander knows that not only must you keep the goal within your thoughts, and the method, but you also need to know what you /will/ sacrifice when the time comes. And who.
So many people I have spoken to would say "I would sacrifice no one and nothing of import!" And that is on the surface an honorable sentiment and one that I think is what most of us would choose to tell ourselves in our hearts. But realistically, in times of dire danger, sometimes being unable to sacrifice anything actually means sacrificing everything. We oft like to think that our intentions matter over everything else. But my experience is that those most harmed by one's good and even right intentions are rarely grateful for it. It takes strength, courage, and humility to be able to bear witness to the suffering one has caused by their good intentions. Regardless of what is chosen, I wonder if we are prepared to do just that. I hope so, together.
Written By Miranda
Jan. 27, 2019, 2:02 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Martino
If you want to see your younger brother lose his patience, ask me to show you.
I promise you, I can make him break his serious face and growl in frustration.
... which, for Domonico, that's like screaming in a fit of rage.
I promise you, I can make him break his serious face and growl in frustration.
... which, for Domonico, that's like screaming in a fit of rage.
Written By Kenna
Jan. 27, 2019, 1:22 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Evonleigh
I really have an amazing sister in Evonleigh. She puts up with my eccentricities with such grace and never makes me feel like a fool. I don't know how I managed life in Arx before she joined us.
Written By Thena
Jan. 27, 2019, 1:21 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
I did get better, but no thanks to the man who who put me there in the first place.
Written By Sabella
Jan. 27, 2019, 12:43 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
I should really make a note that for future children I ought to think about the weather when I will be hugely pregnant. As we come into summer I'm already uncomfortable and the high temperatures will surely not help! But it will be well worth it to give Relara a little playmate and increase the size of our wonderful family! I have been so exhausted lately that I haven't been out as much as I'd like, though when I am I have done my best to hear what people think of our current situation and the options on the table. There are interesting sides to each and every viewpoint is valuable.
I hold a tremendous amount of hope for our future no matter what happens!
I hold a tremendous amount of hope for our future no matter what happens!
Written By Edward
Jan. 27, 2019, 12:09 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
I want to thank my ever loyal and ever present keeper and shadow, Sombra.
Thank you for all the things you do.
Thank you for all the things you do.
Written By Marian
Jan. 27, 2019, 12:04 p.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
Before my dear Fergus departed from this world, he left me letters for Nia, my oldest. Each one to mark a new year, to give warm wishes and advice. I read the latest one to her last month on her 3rd birthday. It's taken me months, but I've done something similar, written words to all three of my children. Because as they grow and come into their own, the words they will need are different. I've left these with my will in case in the future I shall not be there to read them myself.
Not that I'm planning on leaving this world anytime soon. It's been a good project from the winter that rolled into spring. It will be interesting to see how my thoughts change in time and experience.
Not that I'm planning on leaving this world anytime soon. It's been a good project from the winter that rolled into spring. It will be interesting to see how my thoughts change in time and experience.
Written By Brady
Jan. 27, 2019, 10:26 a.m.(6/18/1010 AR)
I had one of the greatest nights of my life recently. In the earlier hours, I visited with Princess Alarissa Thrax in their library. She had remembered my offer to donate most of my income to help ease the dismantling of thralldom. I'm not sure if that's ever going to happen, but I'm not going to hem and haw about the lettering of my offer, only the spirit: I wish to help. The Princess Thrax told me how to set up the payments, and get the ball rolling, and I feel better now that it's done.
She also extended the invitation to visit their library at anytime. From the Maw, to the Shackles, to the elaborate bookshelves, it was really all quite stunning. I plan to visit often. We had the surprise Fortune of Laddy Willow Nightgold's presence, and the three of us drank blood orange tea and discussed foreign affairs, history, and the other races. As well as what I'm learning is called The Arts. That was about the time I excused myself. Not before her Highness gave me some names I could call upon in my quest for information, given to me by my Captain.
Later, I heard about a birthday party going on, and after digging up a little info about the woman of honor, decided to crash it..Thank the Gods I missed the King. I can't imagine what His Majesty would have thought about my gift. Yet, by strange coincidence I was reminded of the reflection of our deeds coming back to us. I donated almost all of my income, weekly, to those in need, and was gifted by Perrone, a wonderfully charming woman, a handful of gems that covers, by my figuring, about thirty weeks of my stipend and pay from the Valorous Few. Poetic, really, but I know I'm probably going to give those away too. I even met a pretty nice guy, new to the city, named Gunter. He seems like someone I could actually be myself with, let my hair down around, per session. I'm going to keep an eye on him, in case the sharks swarm in seeing fresh meat. Plus, he looks strong. There are a few jobs he could help me with.
To cap off the night, the End of Spring Fling. Normally I would have been nervous, around so many Silks. Yes, they respond well to kindness, honor, and honesty, but as I've seen once from a wolf, some are so desperate to fit in, be accepted, or keep their status that they'll literally attack you if threaten that, even accidentally. That reminds me, I got to reach out to them two, make amends. Anyways, after the birthday party I was already pretty drunk. I took off my shoes, trusted in Lady Valencia Velonosa's grace and hospitality, and decided to just have a god time. I got to dance with Lady Nightgold, play games with beautiful women, and I didn't embarrass myself in front of my idols, the Knight of Ribbons, and Prince Niklas Grayson, the legendary playwright. There was fantastic food, things I've never seen before, let alone tasted, great company and the star of my night, Lady Nightgold. This is the only kind of magic I need in my life.
It was a good night to let go, and enjoy life, but the reality of our situation is still sobering. Back to work.
She also extended the invitation to visit their library at anytime. From the Maw, to the Shackles, to the elaborate bookshelves, it was really all quite stunning. I plan to visit often. We had the surprise Fortune of Laddy Willow Nightgold's presence, and the three of us drank blood orange tea and discussed foreign affairs, history, and the other races. As well as what I'm learning is called The Arts. That was about the time I excused myself. Not before her Highness gave me some names I could call upon in my quest for information, given to me by my Captain.
Later, I heard about a birthday party going on, and after digging up a little info about the woman of honor, decided to crash it..Thank the Gods I missed the King. I can't imagine what His Majesty would have thought about my gift. Yet, by strange coincidence I was reminded of the reflection of our deeds coming back to us. I donated almost all of my income, weekly, to those in need, and was gifted by Perrone, a wonderfully charming woman, a handful of gems that covers, by my figuring, about thirty weeks of my stipend and pay from the Valorous Few. Poetic, really, but I know I'm probably going to give those away too. I even met a pretty nice guy, new to the city, named Gunter. He seems like someone I could actually be myself with, let my hair down around, per session. I'm going to keep an eye on him, in case the sharks swarm in seeing fresh meat. Plus, he looks strong. There are a few jobs he could help me with.
To cap off the night, the End of Spring Fling. Normally I would have been nervous, around so many Silks. Yes, they respond well to kindness, honor, and honesty, but as I've seen once from a wolf, some are so desperate to fit in, be accepted, or keep their status that they'll literally attack you if threaten that, even accidentally. That reminds me, I got to reach out to them two, make amends. Anyways, after the birthday party I was already pretty drunk. I took off my shoes, trusted in Lady Valencia Velonosa's grace and hospitality, and decided to just have a god time. I got to dance with Lady Nightgold, play games with beautiful women, and I didn't embarrass myself in front of my idols, the Knight of Ribbons, and Prince Niklas Grayson, the legendary playwright. There was fantastic food, things I've never seen before, let alone tasted, great company and the star of my night, Lady Nightgold. This is the only kind of magic I need in my life.
It was a good night to let go, and enjoy life, but the reality of our situation is still sobering. Back to work.
Written By Preston
Jan. 27, 2019, 6:40 a.m.(6/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
To be fair, you got better - unless you are some kind of apparition or shared imagining of us all. And thankfully so.
Written By Jennyva
Jan. 27, 2019, 5:07 a.m.(6/17/1010 AR)
I got a bird and a dog! They're such wonderful company.
The bird is a mourning dove (get it?!) and she's a very soft tan but she looks like she's blushing a bit around her face and breast. She hatched just six weeks ago and makes delightful sounds when she wants to be fed. (I'm sure others in the Shepherd Manor beg to differ) But now since we are through the baby stages she's learned how to deliver my messages. I've named her Maude. I believe it means 'Might in Battle'.
The dog is, of course, a grand-doggo of Boofus and is appropriately named Roofus. He's still just a puppy and is mostly just here to keep my feet warm at night and to eat. Eventually one day, maybe he'll even be formidable.
The bird is a mourning dove (get it?!) and she's a very soft tan but she looks like she's blushing a bit around her face and breast. She hatched just six weeks ago and makes delightful sounds when she wants to be fed. (I'm sure others in the Shepherd Manor beg to differ) But now since we are through the baby stages she's learned how to deliver my messages. I've named her Maude. I believe it means 'Might in Battle'.
The dog is, of course, a grand-doggo of Boofus and is appropriately named Roofus. He's still just a puppy and is mostly just here to keep my feet warm at night and to eat. Eventually one day, maybe he'll even be formidable.
Written By Martino
Jan. 27, 2019, 4:53 a.m.(6/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Domonico
It should not, at all, be a surprise that I find my brother's support in the city so helpful. Truly, for one who might on the outer seem impatient, I have never seen him snap.
Dear brother, my thanks go out to you.
Dear brother, my thanks go out to you.
Written By Martino
Jan. 27, 2019, 4:51 a.m.(6/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jennyva
Well the Lady Jennyva Shepard has quite incredible taste in art and was such a good host, tour guide and company. Also such an impeccable taste in fashion as can be seen with her tailored velvet jacket, the one with the blue tones and dove grey trim. Such a refined treat. Just the other day she took me to the impressive Eidolon Gallery to show off the art there. How fortunate of me.
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