Written By Sabella
June 25, 2018, 2:24 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Niklas
That's what I have Elizabetta and Lily do for me! And if I happen to be talking to a scholar and I notice a flurry of activity I try to see what's happening and pick up the journals of some people I otherwise might not read.
I'm pretty sure only you and Master Voss read my journals, though.
I secretly think its because Master Voss has mine called out so many times no one else gets a chance!
I'm pretty sure only you and Master Voss read my journals, though.
I secretly think its because Master Voss has mine called out so many times no one else gets a chance!
Written By Lumen
June 25, 2018, 2:16 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Niklas
What a conscientious and likely solution!
Written By Gwenna
June 25, 2018, 2:09 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aethan
I had a most production and wonderful breakfast with Lord Aethan Kennex, about a possible small pet project of mine. The path that lead to us being acquaintances is, perhaps, a little odd, but his professional knowledge and suggestions today were exactly what I had needed. I feel I have completed the first tiny step in this endeavor, which is very exciting. That he had agreed to my offer of patronage makes this all the more rewarding.
Written By Niklas
June 25, 2018, 2:08 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
I must admit, I find it odd that someone who came upon a journal entry she found interesting enough to respond to is then questioning how people are finding her journal.
Then again, my assistant is paid specifically to look through journals and bring me the journals of the, oh, three hundred or so most interesting citizens of Arx. Which isn't very hard to keep track of. Generally there's twenty to forty or so entries a day between them all.
Then again, my assistant is paid specifically to look through journals and bring me the journals of the, oh, three hundred or so most interesting citizens of Arx. Which isn't very hard to keep track of. Generally there's twenty to forty or so entries a day between them all.
Written By Clara
June 25, 2018, 1:37 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Tabitha
Thank you, Tabitha. Your words are very kind and I look forward to meeting you in the near future. ~ Clara
Written By Clara
June 25, 2018, 1:36 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
I want to preface my response with saying thank you for journal, Legate. I appreciate that you have taken the time to write something so detailed for us all and I have nothing but the utmost respect for The Faith and those who serve within it. And that isn't lip service, I promise. It is what I sincerely and truly feel. So when I say "thank you" I hope that you will believe I mean it.
While I grew up with Mangata, Petrichor, and Lagoma being talked about around me fairly often I never really paid much attention. That was a failing of my own. However, I would never mock The Faith or its values nor would I make journal posts saying that The Faith needed to remember to be humble. Note that I said spiritual leaders not Archlectors or The Faith. This was intentional as Shamans are also considered to be spiritual leaders and I was attempting to engage everyone in discussion not attack anyone.
I do admit that I let myself react poorly to the Dominus' decree but I had a reason or an excuse if you prefer. You see, I was considering learning more about The Faith, specifically Tehom, Death, and Lagoma as they are closest to me personally. I was exploring the options I might have if I wanted to devote myself to a specific God or Goddess. So it was a bit of a personal reaction versus a logical reaction and if my reactions gave you, or anyone else, any offense I apologize. I was wrong to behave that way and I recognize that as a place where I have room to grow and I welcome feedback in messengers or private meetings since it is very much a private matter to me.
A private matter that Archlector Vayne has been kind enough to speak with me on at length. I owe him a great deal of respect for his support and assistance these past couple months but most especially because instead of chastising me he opened his arms and assisted me. He helped me realize that it wasn't personal even though I was unknowingly taking it as such. That The Faith was doing what it felt it must and for a good many reasons. Though I do not necessarily agree with those reasons on a personal level he helped me step outside of myself for a moment and look at things from The Faith's perspective the best such things can be done. And so, at this point, I hold no grudge and am left only with disappointment.
With saying that, I was not attempting to be offensive to The Faith, nor anyone else, by bringing up the topic of Humility. I do thank you for engaging in the conversation. I found your words insightful. I honestly did not even know that there was a list of Virtues that the Faith held in high esteem. This is good to know since I have recently decided, in spite of my initial outrage with the Dominus, that the Gods need to have a place in my life. While I cannot bring myself to leave The Spirits behind altogether I recognize that the Gods do exist and as such deserve my attention and respect.
I will take your words and meditate on them and perhaps seek you out another time so that I can learn more from you. In the meantime, I wish you well.
--
(OOC: Will note that in the help file for Shamanism it does say they are considered Spiritual Leaders.... though that doesn't mean its not vexing to the Faith. xD)
While I grew up with Mangata, Petrichor, and Lagoma being talked about around me fairly often I never really paid much attention. That was a failing of my own. However, I would never mock The Faith or its values nor would I make journal posts saying that The Faith needed to remember to be humble. Note that I said spiritual leaders not Archlectors or The Faith. This was intentional as Shamans are also considered to be spiritual leaders and I was attempting to engage everyone in discussion not attack anyone.
I do admit that I let myself react poorly to the Dominus' decree but I had a reason or an excuse if you prefer. You see, I was considering learning more about The Faith, specifically Tehom, Death, and Lagoma as they are closest to me personally. I was exploring the options I might have if I wanted to devote myself to a specific God or Goddess. So it was a bit of a personal reaction versus a logical reaction and if my reactions gave you, or anyone else, any offense I apologize. I was wrong to behave that way and I recognize that as a place where I have room to grow and I welcome feedback in messengers or private meetings since it is very much a private matter to me.
A private matter that Archlector Vayne has been kind enough to speak with me on at length. I owe him a great deal of respect for his support and assistance these past couple months but most especially because instead of chastising me he opened his arms and assisted me. He helped me realize that it wasn't personal even though I was unknowingly taking it as such. That The Faith was doing what it felt it must and for a good many reasons. Though I do not necessarily agree with those reasons on a personal level he helped me step outside of myself for a moment and look at things from The Faith's perspective the best such things can be done. And so, at this point, I hold no grudge and am left only with disappointment.
With saying that, I was not attempting to be offensive to The Faith, nor anyone else, by bringing up the topic of Humility. I do thank you for engaging in the conversation. I found your words insightful. I honestly did not even know that there was a list of Virtues that the Faith held in high esteem. This is good to know since I have recently decided, in spite of my initial outrage with the Dominus, that the Gods need to have a place in my life. While I cannot bring myself to leave The Spirits behind altogether I recognize that the Gods do exist and as such deserve my attention and respect.
I will take your words and meditate on them and perhaps seek you out another time so that I can learn more from you. In the meantime, I wish you well.
--
(OOC: Will note that in the help file for Shamanism it does say they are considered Spiritual Leaders.... though that doesn't mean its not vexing to the Faith. xD)
Written By Natalia
June 25, 2018, 1:27 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
I am thankful for the public support from those that have worked with me. It might not be necessary, but surely it is appreciated. It is strange to have support of any sort, though I imagine eventually I will manage to get used to it. I have read what you all have said, and I thank you for it.
Written By Tabitha
June 25, 2018, 1:24 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Clara
I was reading the journal of a friend, and in doing so was required to seek out the context of his entries in order to gain a greater understanding of their meaning. This led me to your own journal by necessity, and so here I am.
Despite not knowing you, I'd like to take the liberty of saying that I thought your ruminations on humility were interesting to read and not at all irritating. They're quite mild as far as journal entries go in this day and age.
I hope you have a wonderful day, but I'm sure you will! You seem like a very pleasant person.
Despite not knowing you, I'd like to take the liberty of saying that I thought your ruminations on humility were interesting to read and not at all irritating. They're quite mild as far as journal entries go in this day and age.
I hope you have a wonderful day, but I'm sure you will! You seem like a very pleasant person.
Written By Natalia
June 25, 2018, 1:20 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Lark
It's a good thing I'm not actually worried, then.
Do I exist to you, again?
Do I exist to you, again?
Written By Edain
June 25, 2018, 1:15 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
The reason humility is not one of the primary virtues of the faith is not that it is not divine, it is that it is a prime component of the other virtues that Gods demand of us. Justice, Mercy, Charity, Honor, Joy, Industriousness, Wisdom, Freedom, Love, Fidelity, and Patience, humility is part of the common clay through which we attain them all.
To be humble does not mean you are not proud, nor does it mean you are not bold. Nor does it mean we do not stand fast for our beliefs and virtues. This is why I believe it to be a misunderstood virtue. Many equate it to being the wolf in the pack that shows it's throat to the pack leader, when the humble one is the strong pack leader that knows even his weakest packmate has a role to play until he can run no more.
So in short while humility is not one of the Divine Virtues I believe it is an important facet of all of them.
To be humble does not mean you are not proud, nor does it mean you are not bold. Nor does it mean we do not stand fast for our beliefs and virtues. This is why I believe it to be a misunderstood virtue. Many equate it to being the wolf in the pack that shows it's throat to the pack leader, when the humble one is the strong pack leader that knows even his weakest packmate has a role to play until he can run no more.
So in short while humility is not one of the Divine Virtues I believe it is an important facet of all of them.
Written By Reigna
June 25, 2018, 1:12 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Lark
I believe Lagoma, Our Lady of Change would disagree. Everyone feels her touch. I cannot speak to what was, but the woman I know Natalia Whisper to be is a worthwhile and good one.
Written By Lark
June 25, 2018, 1 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
If one is so concerned about whether or not one's white journal is being read, then perhaps one should not allow the ink to stain the page in the first place. Some things never change.
Written By Kael
June 25, 2018, 12:53 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
I was tapped by Vern to come and visit the Archive and look at a few entries that he had pulled for my benefit. You see, my protege, Natalia Whisper, was involved. These last few weeks have been exceptionally busy and I have not had the opportunity to do my duty and write in the journals as I should. Plus, if I am being forthright, often times it is difficult to put quill to parchment and express my thoughts and feelings sufficiently. Nonetheless, in this instance, I will attempt to do so.
I have no comment on Lady Crovane's entry at this time. I will have it pulled to review at a later time in my leisure.
I have no particular comment to make in my whites concerning the nobles that have engaged with my protege. It is their right to pen whatever it is that they wish, to read whatever entries they wish, and so on.
What I must comment on, however, is the 'disgraced former nobility.' Or, specifically, denobled Natalia. Yes, this point is true. It was also forthrightly admitted to me, by Natalia, in what I believe was a warning for concern of my own social standing.
However, this is the woman of the past and who she is now is Natalia Whisper. It is a dishonor to the esteemed Whisper House to paint her as an object for scorn when she is a member of their fine organization. She is a chairman within the institution of the Academy of War. She already has aided House Keaton, and the Compact, in becoming stronger. If I am not mistaken, she has been within Arx approximately six months. Look at what she has accomplished in this time. I certainly would not dismiss her.
I, for one, am honored to find our arms clasped.
I have no comment on Lady Crovane's entry at this time. I will have it pulled to review at a later time in my leisure.
I have no particular comment to make in my whites concerning the nobles that have engaged with my protege. It is their right to pen whatever it is that they wish, to read whatever entries they wish, and so on.
What I must comment on, however, is the 'disgraced former nobility.' Or, specifically, denobled Natalia. Yes, this point is true. It was also forthrightly admitted to me, by Natalia, in what I believe was a warning for concern of my own social standing.
However, this is the woman of the past and who she is now is Natalia Whisper. It is a dishonor to the esteemed Whisper House to paint her as an object for scorn when she is a member of their fine organization. She is a chairman within the institution of the Academy of War. She already has aided House Keaton, and the Compact, in becoming stronger. If I am not mistaken, she has been within Arx approximately six months. Look at what she has accomplished in this time. I certainly would not dismiss her.
I, for one, am honored to find our arms clasped.
Written By Bliss
June 25, 2018, 12:52 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
There is no one in the Compact more aware of the flaws and faults in Natalia Whisper's past than Natalia Whisper herself. She has done her penance for them, paid her price - and Whisper House took her in, because she earned her spot here.
She continues to earn her spot here, every day, through fantastic, unending, rigorous work. I stand fully behind her, publicly. She has every right to express the opinions she does, and the woman she has become is one of the people I value most highly.
I had similar thoughts about Lady Clara Crovane's writings. I, frankly, do not see the point in them - since she has asked for opinions, I will provide mine here. The points she made were trite ones, lessons to be hung on a wall and recited to children, conclusions that anyone with a working mind would be able to come to in an instant.
As for any specific thoughts about humility, well, the Legate has beaten me to writing about the matter in regard to the Faith, so I will simply say this:
We do not venerate the humble. We are not the spawn of those who have forgiven and forgotten. Each and every House has their pride in their values, and those values are what have driven us so far.
I am a proud woman, and will never cease to be - for it is making sure that I can back that up that is one of my main motivators for excellence.
She continues to earn her spot here, every day, through fantastic, unending, rigorous work. I stand fully behind her, publicly. She has every right to express the opinions she does, and the woman she has become is one of the people I value most highly.
I had similar thoughts about Lady Clara Crovane's writings. I, frankly, do not see the point in them - since she has asked for opinions, I will provide mine here. The points she made were trite ones, lessons to be hung on a wall and recited to children, conclusions that anyone with a working mind would be able to come to in an instant.
As for any specific thoughts about humility, well, the Legate has beaten me to writing about the matter in regard to the Faith, so I will simply say this:
We do not venerate the humble. We are not the spawn of those who have forgiven and forgotten. Each and every House has their pride in their values, and those values are what have driven us so far.
I am a proud woman, and will never cease to be - for it is making sure that I can back that up that is one of my main motivators for excellence.
Written By Edain
June 25, 2018, 12:51 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
On humility:
It is my favorite virtue so I thought I would weigh in my thoughts on the topic. Some of which others have already said but not with the same words perhaps.
Firstly I have learned in my life that acting humble and possessing true humility are not the same thing. It is a subtle thing but it can be significant. Humility is one of the most liberating virtues you can possess.
What do I mean by this? I mean that it frees you from pretense. The humble does not have to fear owning mistake, because the truly humble does not fear showing weakness. They can address them, acknowledge them, and overcome them. Humility is one of the greatest ways to escape from beneath heavy burdens and keep your eyes on doing what others need of you.
It is my favorite virtue so I thought I would weigh in my thoughts on the topic. Some of which others have already said but not with the same words perhaps.
Firstly I have learned in my life that acting humble and possessing true humility are not the same thing. It is a subtle thing but it can be significant. Humility is one of the most liberating virtues you can possess.
What do I mean by this? I mean that it frees you from pretense. The humble does not have to fear owning mistake, because the truly humble does not fear showing weakness. They can address them, acknowledge them, and overcome them. Humility is one of the greatest ways to escape from beneath heavy burdens and keep your eyes on doing what others need of you.
Written By Natalia
June 25, 2018, 12:41 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
I do not find it odd that you read my journals. I read yours, as well! I admit that I do find it incredibly flattering, though. I can't imagine that you'd find it to be anything but nonsense. We have many people in common, though, and so I wouldn't say it is strange or odd.
It has been a delight to have the opportunity to work with you. Thank you for the compliments; I appreciate them deeply. I am proud of my work there, both in what has been accomplished and in what is to come.
Podraig assures me that you are a word that I cannot spell because it is in his language and the letters don't match up. I am pretty sure we'd spell it starting with a B or P. It seems to be a positive trait though, and roughly means someone that leads from the front.
It has been a delight to have the opportunity to work with you. Thank you for the compliments; I appreciate them deeply. I am proud of my work there, both in what has been accomplished and in what is to come.
Podraig assures me that you are a word that I cannot spell because it is in his language and the letters don't match up. I am pretty sure we'd spell it starting with a B or P. It seems to be a positive trait though, and roughly means someone that leads from the front.
Written By Orazio
June 25, 2018, 12:40 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
When we speak of the Virtues which the gods of the Pantheon represent, which guide the Faith, the Church, and the Faithful, we speak primarily of the following: Justice, Mercy, Charity, Honor, Joy, Industriousness, Wisdom, Freedom, Love, Fidelity, and Patience. However, these virtues as the Church means them do not always mean exactly the same as the do in casual conversation. When we speak of Love, for one example, the Faith rarely means romantic passion - that is a /part/ of Love, but it is often fleeting and without commitment. The Love which is Virtue is that which endures and transforms us, which calls for the sacrifice of what is comfortable for ourselves so that what is loved may thrive - whether it ever recognizes our sacrifice or returns our love or not. Likewise, Industriousness is not merely being /busy/, although idle hands are no virtue. Rather, the Industriousness which is Virtue is to work in the world to create and strengthen and push forward the causes of the gods. Mere busy work, or fruitless complaining is no virtue - nor is Industriousness without Patience, launching oneself into project after project and never taking the time and focus to see them through.
One may notice that humility is nowhere on the list of divine Virtues. This is not an oversight - it has never been the Church's charge, nor the Compact's wont, to be humble. Humility would never have forged five great kingdoms into a greater Compact, nor had the pride to refuse to bow to enemies great and small over the thousand years of the Compact's history. There is, certainly, a time and a place to be humble, much as there is a time and place to be silent - but neither humility nor silence are universal virtues, as any member of Crownsworn or Crownlands fealty who has been raised to know the words of House Grayson words may attest. Humility may be respected, where it is not false, and where it is not an excuse to fail to uphold any of the other virtues. But it is not divine as the Virtues are.
The words of the Faith of the Pantheon are: "By the grace of the gods, we are their will."
This is a proud statement, to be certain. It is also a solemn charge that the Church takes with too much seriousness and solemnity to ever be humble about it. We of the Church seek to retain the gods' grace /by/ upholding their will, even when that requires making decisions which do not please everyone. We are not endlessly accepting - it is given to the Church to judge the apostate, the heretic, and the blasphemer. When we fail to uphold that charge, not just lives but souls are lost. And even without rising to the level of apostasy, heresy, or blasphemy, the Church must choose which people and viewpoints it wishes to represent the canon of the Church, the truth of the Faith. This does mean that some people who might wish to have the Church's authority to aid with their prestige and personal ambitions will not have it. But those who are truly Faithful will understand the Church's decision in this, and will strive to learn from it - whether they choose to seek a discipleship or not.
Those who choose to complain rather than to learn have the Freedom to make that choice, although it will avail them nothing, materially or spiritually. But they are welcome to continue to do so for as long as it pleases them, and I sincerely hope that they are able to do so in peace, without harassment from the more devout. There is no need to defend the Church's decision, for it has been made, and shall not be unmade. Nor is it subject to public referendum nor debate from the nobility, even up to the High Lords.
The Dominus is the Voice of the Pantheon, and he has spoken.
When we speak of the Virtues which the gods of the Pantheon represent, which guide the Faith, the Church, and the Faithful, we speak primarily of the following: Justice, Mercy, Charity, Honor, Joy, Industriousness, Wisdom, Freedom, Love, Fidelity, and Patience. However, these virtues as the Church means them do not always mean exactly the same as the do in casual conversation. When we speak of Love, for one example, the Faith rarely means romantic passion - that is a /part/ of Love, but it is often fleeting and without commitment. The Love which is Virtue is that which endures and transforms us, which calls for the sacrifice of what is comfortable for ourselves so that what is loved may thrive - whether it ever recognizes our sacrifice or returns our love or not. Likewise, Industriousness is not merely being /busy/, although idle hands are no virtue. Rather, the Industriousness which is Virtue is to work in the world to create and strengthen and push forward the causes of the gods. Mere busy work, or fruitless complaining is no virtue - nor is Industriousness without Patience, launching oneself into project after project and never taking the time and focus to see them through.
One may notice that humility is nowhere on the list of divine Virtues. This is not an oversight - it has never been the Church's charge, nor the Compact's wont, to be humble. Humility would never have forged five great kingdoms into a greater Compact, nor had the pride to refuse to bow to enemies great and small over the thousand years of the Compact's history. There is, certainly, a time and a place to be humble, much as there is a time and place to be silent - but neither humility nor silence are universal virtues, as any member of Crownsworn or Crownlands fealty who has been raised to know the words of House Grayson words may attest. Humility may be respected, where it is not false, and where it is not an excuse to fail to uphold any of the other virtues. But it is not divine as the Virtues are.
The words of the Faith of the Pantheon are: "By the grace of the gods, we are their will."
This is a proud statement, to be certain. It is also a solemn charge that the Church takes with too much seriousness and solemnity to ever be humble about it. We of the Church seek to retain the gods' grace /by/ upholding their will, even when that requires making decisions which do not please everyone. We are not endlessly accepting - it is given to the Church to judge the apostate, the heretic, and the blasphemer. When we fail to uphold that charge, not just lives but souls are lost. And even without rising to the level of apostasy, heresy, or blasphemy, the Church must choose which people and viewpoints it wishes to represent the canon of the Church, the truth of the Faith. This does mean that some people who might wish to have the Church's authority to aid with their prestige and personal ambitions will not have it. But those who are truly Faithful will understand the Church's decision in this, and will strive to learn from it - whether they choose to seek a discipleship or not.
Those who choose to complain rather than to learn have the Freedom to make that choice, although it will avail them nothing, materially or spiritually. But they are welcome to continue to do so for as long as it pleases them, and I sincerely hope that they are able to do so in peace, without harassment from the more devout. There is no need to defend the Church's decision, for it has been made, and shall not be unmade. Nor is it subject to public referendum nor debate from the nobility, even up to the High Lords.
The Dominus is the Voice of the Pantheon, and he has spoken.
Written By Reigna
June 25, 2018, 12:40 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
Whisper Natalia is a hard working, charming, educated, gracious and wonderful woman.
Written By Cristoph
June 25, 2018, 12:31 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
I'm another noble that reads your journals. However I'd like to think that I'm doing it for reasons that aren't completely odd, for we've at least met in person previously.
For those who read /my/ whites, I would like them to note that I've had the honor of working with Natalia Whisper on a matter for Count Keaton. She has impressed me as being remarkably brave, cool under pressure and capable of extraordinary leadership in the face of dangerous circumstances.
Perhaps those who feel the need to "punch down" as Archlector Aureth so eloquently puts, should choose something else to do with their time.
For those who read /my/ whites, I would like them to note that I've had the honor of working with Natalia Whisper on a matter for Count Keaton. She has impressed me as being remarkably brave, cool under pressure and capable of extraordinary leadership in the face of dangerous circumstances.
Perhaps those who feel the need to "punch down" as Archlector Aureth so eloquently puts, should choose something else to do with their time.
Written By Natalia
June 25, 2018, 12:06 p.m.(1/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Fredrik
It should be beneath your notice. As you said, I am disgraced former nobility. Denobled, specifically. Cast out from my family and my rank. For good reason, at that.
Someone posted a topic for discussion in the journals. Her entry specifically said it was for discussion; that's why it was shown to me, at my request. It irritated me, and I made a comment about it in my own journal.
You, a nobleman with a great deal upon his plate (one hopes, considering I believe that I heard you were trying to restore a whole family), pulled my journal for whatever reason, and then started being rude in my direction for my response in my own journal for a discussion topic. You've insulted me, gotten digs in at me, and none of them were even honest enough to use my name. And yet you make commentary about me being snide and vague.
Go look in a mirror.
Someone posted a topic for discussion in the journals. Her entry specifically said it was for discussion; that's why it was shown to me, at my request. It irritated me, and I made a comment about it in my own journal.
You, a nobleman with a great deal upon his plate (one hopes, considering I believe that I heard you were trying to restore a whole family), pulled my journal for whatever reason, and then started being rude in my direction for my response in my own journal for a discussion topic. You've insulted me, gotten digs in at me, and none of them were even honest enough to use my name. And yet you make commentary about me being snide and vague.
Go look in a mirror.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.