Written By Esoka
July 21, 2018, midnight(3/23/1009 AR)
It has been nearly three years since the Siege of Arx ended. I remember that battle for many things but, largest in my life, it was it was after it that I was asked by House Riven to take up the duties as Sword of the Twainfort. I have carried the Twain with as much honor and commitment to my tribe and sworn lieges as I know how. Long before I became Sword, I was a sworn knight, and a soldier without title before that. Such service has been my life for nearly fifteen years, since I was old enough to hold a blade and call myself a blood warrior. I pray I have executed my duties to my House as a knight in a way that does good service to Limerance.
But before I was a Sword, a knight, a warrior, I was a follower of the gods of the Pantheon. The stories of Gloria my grandfather told me still sing in my heart when times are darkest. My faith was the foundation of my life after I bent the knee, when all else seemed uncertain. In my youth I considered becoming godsworn, but I could never reconcile my commitment to my tribe and want of a family with the demands of the priesthood. I have sought other ways to serve, especially as a disciple of Gloria. My appointment as disciple leader a few months past was one of the proudest moments of my life. But it also made me think long on my commitments, and my calling at this time in my life.
And so, I've decided to put aside the Sword, to focus on my work with the Faith. There are many fine knights in the Twainfort, and I'm sure one of them will serve Countess Mia and Count Thesarin admirably. While I shall perhaps never be able to make the full commitment those brothers and sisters of the godsworn do, I will be dedicating myself to my discipleship on a full-time basis. There is only so much a lay worshipper can do, but I can do more and want to do more. I hope this focus will aid the Templars as they rebuild after the grave losses at Stormwall, and aid my own soul as I explore my connection to Gloria and try to live up to her virtues.
In the coming months I intend to undertake pilgrimages throughout Arvum and get to know the people in the various Templar parishes throughout the Five Kingdoms. To understand how those of different paths and backgrounds embrace their faith, and to use my knightly service in aid of the common folk, regardless of fealty. I shall still work primarily in Arx, of course, with Sir Preston and Archlector Cassandra, as they would have me. And I can't leave my husband alone for very long. So, I shall be around. I pray I find good service with the realm and the goddess of war, so well as I can.
But before I was a Sword, a knight, a warrior, I was a follower of the gods of the Pantheon. The stories of Gloria my grandfather told me still sing in my heart when times are darkest. My faith was the foundation of my life after I bent the knee, when all else seemed uncertain. In my youth I considered becoming godsworn, but I could never reconcile my commitment to my tribe and want of a family with the demands of the priesthood. I have sought other ways to serve, especially as a disciple of Gloria. My appointment as disciple leader a few months past was one of the proudest moments of my life. But it also made me think long on my commitments, and my calling at this time in my life.
And so, I've decided to put aside the Sword, to focus on my work with the Faith. There are many fine knights in the Twainfort, and I'm sure one of them will serve Countess Mia and Count Thesarin admirably. While I shall perhaps never be able to make the full commitment those brothers and sisters of the godsworn do, I will be dedicating myself to my discipleship on a full-time basis. There is only so much a lay worshipper can do, but I can do more and want to do more. I hope this focus will aid the Templars as they rebuild after the grave losses at Stormwall, and aid my own soul as I explore my connection to Gloria and try to live up to her virtues.
In the coming months I intend to undertake pilgrimages throughout Arvum and get to know the people in the various Templar parishes throughout the Five Kingdoms. To understand how those of different paths and backgrounds embrace their faith, and to use my knightly service in aid of the common folk, regardless of fealty. I shall still work primarily in Arx, of course, with Sir Preston and Archlector Cassandra, as they would have me. And I can't leave my husband alone for very long. So, I shall be around. I pray I find good service with the realm and the goddess of war, so well as I can.
Written By Lisebet
July 20, 2018, 11:45 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
The water was so cold, I still don't know how anyone managed to do more but run in, and then right back out again. Me, I thought my toes were going to fall off! They didn't, in case anyone was worried. I hope Mangata liked the event as much as the rest of us did.
Written By Harper
July 20, 2018, 11:38 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Esoka
I'm really relieved to hear that I'll hopefully have cousins someday. Aunt Esoka had me worried there for a bit!
Written By Karadoc
July 20, 2018, 10:36 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
You shouldn't. I have fleas. Yeah, sure do.
Written By Mirari
July 20, 2018, 10:27 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Karadoc
Every time I see you in my shop, my heart sings a little bit. I can't help myself.
I'm going to hug you.
I'm going to hug you.
Written By Violet
July 20, 2018, 9:10 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
I am cold and it is wonderful. An odd thing to hear perhaps, but remember I was born and raised where there is almost always frost somewhere nearby. Today was wonderful, even if I didn't last as long as others. But I shared what warmth I could with the water and then focused on warming and getting others warmed. So many people showed up and it was simply wonderful. I am so glad that Thorley told me about this tradition. But though many came, the last three in the water were Reese, Felicia, and Rowenova. Reese lasted the longest and Felicia next. I can't wait for next year! Maybe I'll last longer because I won't be needing to pace myself.
I am so thankful to everyone that attended and helped make the event turn out so well. Duke Ryhalt sent coffee and even Lady Lisebet jumped into the waters. All and all I can't quite stop smiling now that the shivers have gone.
I am so thankful to everyone that attended and helped make the event turn out so well. Duke Ryhalt sent coffee and even Lady Lisebet jumped into the waters. All and all I can't quite stop smiling now that the shivers have gone.
Written By Lys
July 20, 2018, 8:57 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
I dreamt I carved my heart, still beating, from my chest and replaced it with a handful of strawberries.
Written By Coraline
July 20, 2018, 8:49 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
To Thorley and Violet,
Thank you for an amazing event. I will jump into the ocean with you anytime!
Thank you for an amazing event. I will jump into the ocean with you anytime!
Written By Harper
July 20, 2018, 8:26 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Magpie
Took my first sailing trip! Never felt quite so free before. Despite a lot of folks worrying that I'd fall overboard or that sharks might eat me (yes that is directed at you, Kenna), I was safe and sound the entire time with Magpie sailing the ship.
I learned how to tie proper knots. Though I don't recommend doing it till your hands are raw, even if you are told to do it that way and maybe get a little stubborn about it. Magpie even let me climb up the ship's mast to the crow's nest. Was the best place to be on the ship if you ask me. Could see out really far! Had a much better view than on the top of the Iron Guard barracks too. I love climbing. Though next time I need to remember to bring a hat, so my nose doesn't sunburn.
Also, he gave me a really nicely made wooden rose too that made me very happy. It's one of the prettiest things I own.
Glad to be home, but I definitely look forward to sailing again. I'm glad that he let me tag along. So if you read this, Magpie, thank you!
I learned how to tie proper knots. Though I don't recommend doing it till your hands are raw, even if you are told to do it that way and maybe get a little stubborn about it. Magpie even let me climb up the ship's mast to the crow's nest. Was the best place to be on the ship if you ask me. Could see out really far! Had a much better view than on the top of the Iron Guard barracks too. I love climbing. Though next time I need to remember to bring a hat, so my nose doesn't sunburn.
Also, he gave me a really nicely made wooden rose too that made me very happy. It's one of the prettiest things I own.
Glad to be home, but I definitely look forward to sailing again. I'm glad that he let me tag along. So if you read this, Magpie, thank you!
Written By Coraline
July 20, 2018, 8:07 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
There is nothing so bracing as getting into a winter ocean and staying there as long as you can. I am rather glad that Monique didn't die, that Marian and Barric were there to help get her out! We should make a party of this more often, with booze. Rum of course.
Congratulations to Princess Reese! For winning this contest.
Dame Felicia and Rowenova did an amazingly steller job as well!
And for everyone else, you are all incredible, job well done!
Congratulations to Princess Reese! For winning this contest.
Dame Felicia and Rowenova did an amazingly steller job as well!
And for everyone else, you are all incredible, job well done!
Written By Hannah
July 20, 2018, 7:46 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
I have now joined the Scholars. I am so looking forward to all of the vast knowledge and discovery that lay before me. Thank you dear friend for guiding me to this opportunity.
Written By Monique
July 20, 2018, 7:15 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Derovai
I didn't and it's not! Rumors of my demise are always greatly exaggerated.
Written By Joscelin
July 20, 2018, 7:12 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Karadoc
One of the people that come through my doors more often lately is Lord Karadoc Saik. It's a strange feeling; I remember his cousins, the reserved Lord Eos and the wonderful Lady Kima, and seeing Karadoc arrive to banter and talk and go over my wares is rather nostalgic. But it's coupled with a strange sense of pride; meeting the Saiks years ago, I knew they were a smaller House that prided themselves on their principles more than they did their coin, and while there's nothing wrong with being wealthy...
...it's hard to describe. I see how well the family is doing now and it makes me smile, is all. The Saiks have made a name for themselves over the years and the growth makes me a proud witness to such success.
A bit random for the day, but it came to mind and I thought to write it before it was lost to the busy everyday.
...it's hard to describe. I see how well the family is doing now and it makes me smile, is all. The Saiks have made a name for themselves over the years and the growth makes me a proud witness to such success.
A bit random for the day, but it came to mind and I thought to write it before it was lost to the busy everyday.
Written By Derovai
July 20, 2018, 7:10 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Monique
Don't tell me you fainted. I wouldn't have thought it possible.
Written By Monique
July 20, 2018, 7:03 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Marian
Well, it worked, didn't it? Side note: bad idea to jump straight into the hot springs after almost freezing to death. Such a bad idea.
Written By Eleyna
July 20, 2018, 6:55 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Shard
Fashion fuels multiple industries in the Compact, from the silk trade in the Lyceum to the fur trade in the North. A trend toward fur can give work to fur trappers in the North, to tanners in the Oathlands, to leatherworkers in Arx. It's easy to see trends as frivolous and stupid when you don't see the chains of industry and prosperity that result from them.
Written By Shard
July 20, 2018, 6:49 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Fashion trends are one of the stupidest things I learned about when I first came to the Compact.
Written By Marian
July 20, 2018, 6:08 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Monique
Freezing to death to get my attention is a bad idea sister of mine.
Written By Jacali
July 20, 2018, 5:13 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Can't get any rest, me. Every time I think I'm nearin' the end of the rush, someone else happens in and orders the bloody menu. For once, mind, just this once I did have some unexpected assistance from a keen young fellow by the name of Jovarn -- sells well, him, think I might well hire him on. Seems he might be crawlin' outta the gutters, him, might just lend him a hand gettin' onto the curb. I'm a kind and fair mistress, me, I am, aren't none can say otherwise. Not after this, anyway.
Written By Wylla
July 20, 2018, 4:46 p.m.(3/23/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
Hello, Officer Sparte!
I'd send you a message, but it's probably clearer for the Compact at large if I make it visible in my Whites and follow up with a proclamation of some sort: are things besides stones acceptable offerings for the wall at the Shrine of Jayus? I received a lovely tin from a hopefully new friend. I'm not sure if it can be used to build anything, but it was sincerely offered, so I hope we can make some use of it.
I'd send you a message, but it's probably clearer for the Compact at large if I make it visible in my Whites and follow up with a proclamation of some sort: are things besides stones acceptable offerings for the wall at the Shrine of Jayus? I received a lovely tin from a hopefully new friend. I'm not sure if it can be used to build anything, but it was sincerely offered, so I hope we can make some use of it.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.