Written By Alarissa
Oct. 15, 2018, 3:15 p.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Darrow
It is a done. A monumentous task but it is done. With grace and hope, Darrow, dour dour Darrow will stand in the Hall of Heroes. The last defender of Darkwater. I miss him. I find myself re-arranging the bottles in the liquor cabinet and deliberately placing this one or that out of order, knowing that in the past, he would have strode by and then put them back in order. I would find him in the library doing much the same. Adjusting the books. By category and then alphabetically within.
Before he left, he came and stated what he was going to do. I asked him not to, never ordered him not to, but with the understanding that he would need to do what he could for his house. And so I lay favors and promises in his hand that I had garnered from others and that Thrax had as well and a promise that we would come as soon as the battle at Setarco promised.
I gave to him my only blade, meant to ward the mind from the despair. A dagger, something he would be unlikely to use but it was what little that I myself, Alarissa, could give. He stood. He bowed. He smiled.
The last memory that I have of the man is the smile on his face as he held the dagger and his Joy. At least once before he passed, I had the chance to see it.
I pray that when his effigy is erected within the hall should the faith agree that he belongs, that it not be of him smiling. That was not the dour man who lost all he had and yet still carried on. But of the grimness and determination. The Knight of Sorrows standing watch over his island, determined to save it down to the last block of stone and a light shining upon his face from the lighthouse. Waiting.
Before he left, he came and stated what he was going to do. I asked him not to, never ordered him not to, but with the understanding that he would need to do what he could for his house. And so I lay favors and promises in his hand that I had garnered from others and that Thrax had as well and a promise that we would come as soon as the battle at Setarco promised.
I gave to him my only blade, meant to ward the mind from the despair. A dagger, something he would be unlikely to use but it was what little that I myself, Alarissa, could give. He stood. He bowed. He smiled.
The last memory that I have of the man is the smile on his face as he held the dagger and his Joy. At least once before he passed, I had the chance to see it.
I pray that when his effigy is erected within the hall should the faith agree that he belongs, that it not be of him smiling. That was not the dour man who lost all he had and yet still carried on. But of the grimness and determination. The Knight of Sorrows standing watch over his island, determined to save it down to the last block of stone and a light shining upon his face from the lighthouse. Waiting.
Written By Tikva
Oct. 15, 2018, 2:28 p.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
What is the value of a single person's honor?
How does one measure the stain on one's honor against the black mark against an entire family's?
It surely is tragic that the traitor Everard cannot be called to account. I pray that the wisdom of Limerance and the evenhandedness of the Sentinel will guide the hearts and minds that mediate this matter.
I have no pretty solution for this, or I would already have offered it. But I call for shame to those of you who write as though Bliss should simply be quiet and permit her honor to suffer forever. It's my thought that leaving the insult to her unaddressed would not leave House Telmar's honor clean at all. The stain would merely have been less visible ... but no less a wound.
The gods do not demand or expect perfection. But without acknowledgment there can be no redress. Without redress there can be no healing.
The fact that without position and friends Bliss might have been forever without platform to reveal the harm done to her does not mean there was no harm.
How does one measure the stain on one's honor against the black mark against an entire family's?
It surely is tragic that the traitor Everard cannot be called to account. I pray that the wisdom of Limerance and the evenhandedness of the Sentinel will guide the hearts and minds that mediate this matter.
I have no pretty solution for this, or I would already have offered it. But I call for shame to those of you who write as though Bliss should simply be quiet and permit her honor to suffer forever. It's my thought that leaving the insult to her unaddressed would not leave House Telmar's honor clean at all. The stain would merely have been less visible ... but no less a wound.
The gods do not demand or expect perfection. But without acknowledgment there can be no redress. Without redress there can be no healing.
The fact that without position and friends Bliss might have been forever without platform to reveal the harm done to her does not mean there was no harm.
Written By Gerard
Oct. 15, 2018, 1:58 p.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
the duke has made his position quite clear as the head of House Telmar, and as far as I can see, House Valardin also stands behind the good Duke in his decision. Any amount of griping, loud exclamations, or complaints from personal friends or fans will most likely fall on deaf ears. Or simply very stern ones. An offer was made by the duke, and that will likely, in my experience with my liege, be that.
the amount of vitriol that some people who repreatedly escape or reduce their own judgments due to their own popularity with the powers-that-be (and who are forgiven every insult or horrible behavior due to these connections) are flinging about is astounding and dismaying.
I wash my hands of every single one of you. All of you, although I do hope many will realize why I have to, for a time, take this measure once the fighting is done.
the amount of vitriol that some people who repreatedly escape or reduce their own judgments due to their own popularity with the powers-that-be (and who are forgiven every insult or horrible behavior due to these connections) are flinging about is astounding and dismaying.
I wash my hands of every single one of you. All of you, although I do hope many will realize why I have to, for a time, take this measure once the fighting is done.
Written By Auda
Oct. 15, 2018, 1:17 p.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
I went to a Sip n' Spar at the Golden Hart, last night. It really made me wonder why I've never gone before, since the whole concept is right up my alley.
Bashira was a great opponent, even if we are pretty evenly matched, and there was a lot more dancing around the ring than there was anything else! I'm just going to have to get quicker.
Theodoric and Elora were really good sports about giving me a bit of competition for a knife-throwing challenge, too. I'll have to thank them both for the fun, later.
Bashira was a great opponent, even if we are pretty evenly matched, and there was a lot more dancing around the ring than there was anything else! I'm just going to have to get quicker.
Theodoric and Elora were really good sports about giving me a bit of competition for a knife-throwing challenge, too. I'll have to thank them both for the fun, later.
Written By Fairen
Oct. 15, 2018, 12:25 p.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
I have always enjoyed Nox'alfar witticism. There was an entire conversation I shared with someone about what sort of book they would make, based on Nox'alfar humor.
Written By Riagnon
Oct. 15, 2018, 11:48 a.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
House Acheron's heirloom, House Aviaron's before that, is not a sword but a warpick. They tell me an angel of Gild gifted it to the dwarves that once dwelt there. I'm inclined to believe it was a spirit of the mines and not dwarves at all, rather just somebody very, very small.
Were I to speak the wrong words while holding this item, it would be our honor speaking. Were I to draw the blood of an innocent with Earthstriker's pointed end, it would be our honor made manifest to strike them down. Swing it upward while someone lay prone or their back was turned away? Our honor.
In such acts, that thing would be diminished... until it and we were worth little more than the metal it was forged with.
Were I to speak the wrong words while holding this item, it would be our honor speaking. Were I to draw the blood of an innocent with Earthstriker's pointed end, it would be our honor made manifest to strike them down. Swing it upward while someone lay prone or their back was turned away? Our honor.
In such acts, that thing would be diminished... until it and we were worth little more than the metal it was forged with.
Written By Jeffeth
Oct. 15, 2018, 11:44 a.m.(10/14/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Vercyn
My Lord, with all due respect I do not think your argument is being misconstrued, I think it's just a bad argument. You're trying to say that people are rallying to Bliss's cause because of her popularity and throwing ourselves at her feet? For what would anyone supporting Bliss Whisper gain from that? In doing this she has knowingly risked her position as a Whisper, she has risked her good standing, she has risked everything to seek justice. So you encourage us to take a very big step back and ask would we care if it was anyone else?
I would hope that I would have the fortitude to support an unknown if their cause was just, just as I would support someone in good standing if their cause was just. However, I don't think this is relevant at all to the point. You just seem to be upset that Bliss has support at all, but you're not really addressing the arguments made. I disagree with your assessment that it has been abundantly clear that House Telmar is not trying to weasel out of responsibility. House Telmar has not made a good stance on this. Every apology has been backhanded, every statement has included accusation, and as I said before Bliss Whisper has been more treated as an irritating insect rather than someone that they as a House have committed a crime against.
I would hope that I would have the fortitude to support an unknown if their cause was just, just as I would support someone in good standing if their cause was just. However, I don't think this is relevant at all to the point. You just seem to be upset that Bliss has support at all, but you're not really addressing the arguments made. I disagree with your assessment that it has been abundantly clear that House Telmar is not trying to weasel out of responsibility. House Telmar has not made a good stance on this. Every apology has been backhanded, every statement has included accusation, and as I said before Bliss Whisper has been more treated as an irritating insect rather than someone that they as a House have committed a crime against.
Written By Fairen
Oct. 15, 2018, 10:30 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Vercyn
From the observations that I have held, you are the only one who has spent any time focusing on Champion Bliss Whisper's popularity. Master Aleksei Morgan, former Godsworn and current expert on theological matters, is focused on the subject of Honor and the concepts there in.
Written By Isabeau
Oct. 15, 2018, 9:51 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
It feels as though entries into White Journals are no longer a sacred act of devotion to Vellichor, but merely another avenue to the court of public opinion on matters they know little to nothing of fact. I will keep my thoughts on recent events and happenings confined to my Black Journal and pray to the gods for guidance.
Written By Corban
Oct. 15, 2018, 9:08 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Isabeau
It was a joy to welcome (now) Lady Isabeau to my former family, and fitting to participate in a run of The Gauntlet to mark the occasion. As it turns out, I turned in the top score and was richly rewarded with a voucher for a diamondplate weapon crafted by the incomparable Dame Ida Ferron.
I am pleased to say that I believe I have an excellent use for the voucher and that I look forward to seeing what she creates.
I am pleased to say that I believe I have an excellent use for the voucher and that I look forward to seeing what she creates.
Written By Elora
Oct. 15, 2018, 8:45 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
...
I am never drinking that coffee again.
Ever.
I am never drinking that coffee again.
Ever.
Written By Quenia
Oct. 15, 2018, 8:35 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
I have determined that the scheduling for the wine event isn't going to work out as I had hoped, and so I have pushed it back by several weeks in hopes that we give the vintners more time to prepare everything. We do, of course, want to provide a quality selection of wines for all to enjoy. We've a goodly number of black cherry and black current wine. I'm excited to hear what new vintages the vintners will be shipping to us in the coming month or so.
Written By Silas
Oct. 15, 2018, 7:21 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Vercyn
Oh, let us not impugn the use of popularity and social capital to get what one wants. Not all of us are born with riches, or are born the great great great great great grandchild of someone who did something legendary long ago. This is like getting upset at someone using a paddle in a rowboat when you're at the head of a massive barge, with a several yard head start.
You can criticize whether or not someone -deserves- to be popular, but using that popularity is well above board as it's something that's voluntarily given.
You can criticize whether or not someone -deserves- to be popular, but using that popularity is well above board as it's something that's voluntarily given.
Written By Arianna
Oct. 15, 2018, 5:26 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
The story around Heirloom weapons, which was told to me, is that they are the oldest and most powerful weapons in all of the Compact's history. That these weapons were claimed from Elven war chiefs in the Elven War and that they respresent the /validity/ of the noble line of the House it protects. These are not merely implements of war, and they are not to win tournaments or to be used in personal duels - for honor or otherwise (the exception being two Swords who duel to prevent two Houses from going to war.)
So when Vowkeeper came out, and this Everard challenged Bliss Whisper to a duel, everyone who witnessed this fuckery might should've spoken up about how indecent it was to even witness the act happening, shame both parties for agreeing to engage in this abominable act in the first place and correct that mishap before it happened. It didn't, Gods only know how, but the onus lies on the Softest Whisper now to act within the accordance of the traditions of the Compact and acknowledge that this was not proper conduct on either sides of this disagreement and neither were her demands because they are founded on false ideals that hold no water within the ancient precedents.
Vowkeeper represents House Telmar's nobility, it is not just a weapon. It is the bravery, glory and validity of their noble House. How can one expect a House to give up it's very claims to the Peerage and for all of us to be okay with setting aside one thousand years of history? To do so is a grave insult to the history of the weapon and all those who wielded it before Everard. As the traditions have dictated and how our history is so plainly written, this is exactly what is being asked. Objectively, I don't think that people are grasping the implications but it is an impossible ask. Bliss Whisper was wronged by Everard and she should be compensated for that act (which Duke Telmar, House Valardin and just about anyone else who has been conferred with seems quite content to do) but never in a thousand years has an heirloom weapon been used for personal glory or vendettas. To start one or to solve one.
So when Vowkeeper came out, and this Everard challenged Bliss Whisper to a duel, everyone who witnessed this fuckery might should've spoken up about how indecent it was to even witness the act happening, shame both parties for agreeing to engage in this abominable act in the first place and correct that mishap before it happened. It didn't, Gods only know how, but the onus lies on the Softest Whisper now to act within the accordance of the traditions of the Compact and acknowledge that this was not proper conduct on either sides of this disagreement and neither were her demands because they are founded on false ideals that hold no water within the ancient precedents.
Vowkeeper represents House Telmar's nobility, it is not just a weapon. It is the bravery, glory and validity of their noble House. How can one expect a House to give up it's very claims to the Peerage and for all of us to be okay with setting aside one thousand years of history? To do so is a grave insult to the history of the weapon and all those who wielded it before Everard. As the traditions have dictated and how our history is so plainly written, this is exactly what is being asked. Objectively, I don't think that people are grasping the implications but it is an impossible ask. Bliss Whisper was wronged by Everard and she should be compensated for that act (which Duke Telmar, House Valardin and just about anyone else who has been conferred with seems quite content to do) but never in a thousand years has an heirloom weapon been used for personal glory or vendettas. To start one or to solve one.
Written By Elora
Oct. 15, 2018, 4:12 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
I have never been quite so happy in my entire life. I was not aware that it was even possible to feel this way.
Written By Gregori
Oct. 15, 2018, 1:51 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
Study...study...study. This is what my life consists of and what I love to do. Attain knowledge, write it down, keep it and guard it. This is what it means to serve Vellichor to protect the knowledge weve found and find and protect more so that we may never lose the knowledge again ever. Though it appears that my desires to become God sworn have been put on hold as the head of my house has requested I wait a bit longer. Its ok, this gives me more time to gather the knowledge needed to advance within the Scholars.
Written By Vercyn
Oct. 15, 2018, 12:47 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
It would seem my statements on popularity are being misconstrued.
People are backing Bliss Whisper merely because she is popular and she is abusing that popularity and her friendships. Again, if it were not for that popularity... I doubt the majority of you supporting her would care. If a random commoner had gone through the same circumstances, this matter would never have made it to the proclamations nor be discussed at length. Not because of 'noble abuse' or similar (such adorable attempt to throw that around; please remember what my House is), but because they would not be someone you throw yourself at the feet of on a regular basis.
All I am saying is to take a very big step back and look at the situation and ask: if it were anyone else, would you care so vehemently? Because I do not think you would. And that there is where I take the most umbrage with the situation at hand.
It has been made abundantly clear that House Telmar is not trying to weasel its way out of making amends for the traitor's actions. They just do not wish to give up a very important heirloom and part of their history and identity that was not his to give away in the first place and an intelligent person who has appropriate understanding of diplomacy would respect this and accept at least one of the alternatives that has been put forth.
People are backing Bliss Whisper merely because she is popular and she is abusing that popularity and her friendships. Again, if it were not for that popularity... I doubt the majority of you supporting her would care. If a random commoner had gone through the same circumstances, this matter would never have made it to the proclamations nor be discussed at length. Not because of 'noble abuse' or similar (such adorable attempt to throw that around; please remember what my House is), but because they would not be someone you throw yourself at the feet of on a regular basis.
All I am saying is to take a very big step back and look at the situation and ask: if it were anyone else, would you care so vehemently? Because I do not think you would. And that there is where I take the most umbrage with the situation at hand.
It has been made abundantly clear that House Telmar is not trying to weasel its way out of making amends for the traitor's actions. They just do not wish to give up a very important heirloom and part of their history and identity that was not his to give away in the first place and an intelligent person who has appropriate understanding of diplomacy would respect this and accept at least one of the alternatives that has been put forth.
Written By Sophie
Oct. 15, 2018, 12:19 a.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
I admit that recently I have been engrossed in my own life and thoughts, and the closing of a chapter, and now the beginning of a new and exciting one.
As I made my through the recent journals and caught up on the recent public proclamations I became quite vexed with the state of things here in Arx.
It's almost as if the populace has forgotten that we have a much more dangerous enemy waiting for the time in which our bonds weaken and we turn upon one another and become obsessed with selfish needs.
When you wish to deprive a family of their birthright then you also wish to deprive all future generations of it as well.. and for what? Personal gain? Riches? Vengeance?
I fear that they would be cold and lonely bedfellows and I fear that nothing positive will come of such things.
I trust that the faith will come to a fair and reasonable solution to this problem. Whatever that is - I hope everyone involved finds peace and tranquility through this process and that the crimes of the past receive some closure and that all involved can begin healing their souls from the damage that was done.
Most importantly - I hope that all involved remember to be kind to one another, even when kindness seems hard to find in a situation.
May the gods gift us all with more foregiveness for our own mistakes and the mistakes of others and allow those with anger in their hearts to release that and begin the process of recovery.
As I made my through the recent journals and caught up on the recent public proclamations I became quite vexed with the state of things here in Arx.
It's almost as if the populace has forgotten that we have a much more dangerous enemy waiting for the time in which our bonds weaken and we turn upon one another and become obsessed with selfish needs.
When you wish to deprive a family of their birthright then you also wish to deprive all future generations of it as well.. and for what? Personal gain? Riches? Vengeance?
I fear that they would be cold and lonely bedfellows and I fear that nothing positive will come of such things.
I trust that the faith will come to a fair and reasonable solution to this problem. Whatever that is - I hope everyone involved finds peace and tranquility through this process and that the crimes of the past receive some closure and that all involved can begin healing their souls from the damage that was done.
Most importantly - I hope that all involved remember to be kind to one another, even when kindness seems hard to find in a situation.
May the gods gift us all with more foregiveness for our own mistakes and the mistakes of others and allow those with anger in their hearts to release that and begin the process of recovery.
Written By Sparte
Oct. 14, 2018, 11:45 p.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
A bit of wisdom for all the future soldiers who follow in the Iron Guard's elite footsteps.
The morning coffee tastes better if the soldiers relieve themselves downstream from the camp kitchens.
The morning coffee tastes better if the soldiers relieve themselves downstream from the camp kitchens.
Written By Coraline
Oct. 14, 2018, 11:21 p.m.(10/13/1009 AR)
There is a good deal of talk as to the most recent situation between House Telmar and Whisper Bliss. Perhaps rather than continue to express personal feelings on situations we are not ourselves involved in, it is best to have those requested to mediate the situation do so without the additional of the weight of our opinions.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.