Written By Holden
May 25, 2018, 10:48 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
No soul so young should know such fear to be brought low to weeping on a taste of fresh air and freedom. It breaks my heart that any child might suffer in the way that these children have, and I hope that from this day forward -- they know only those who would protect them, care for them, and see that they have the freedom and support to have the lives they deserve. May they find strength, and that burden of memory be lessened.
Written By Amari
May 25, 2018, 10:29 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Briseis
I've some other very excellent books of laws, and the practice of law, and noted lawyers through history that I'd be happy to share with you, Mistress Morgan. They're riveting. Especially the one detailing the case against that dashing corsair and rogue, Captain Hardstone.
And now the scholar is looking at me strangely for winking at the journal.
And now the scholar is looking at me strangely for winking at the journal.
Written By Leona
May 25, 2018, 9:52 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Jaenelle
You looked beautiful in your wedding dress, sister-mine. I hope your marriage brings you all the joy you so richly deserve.
Written By Fredrik
May 25, 2018, 9:39 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Archeron
From: The desk of Fredrik RedTyde
Subject: The changes of House Thrax
First off, I want to make it very clear that I have nothing but respect for the changes of House Thrax. I believe them to be both in the best interests of the Compact, and in their own as well. I support all of these changes, and am so very glad that the excesses of Donrai have come to an end. I am so happy to be working to rebuild my House in an atmosphere of cooperation and Godliness.
But I was old enough, unlike many here, to very clearly remember Victus' early years. I will not go into the details of his slaughter of my family, some of which I witnessed with my own two eyes. This is the past, and the only reason I even bring it to attention? Because it shows how very easy it is to be manipulated by those in power, like Donrai. how very quick things change, for better or for worse. How it takes only a few bad decisions, so easily excused at the time, to turn into something monstrous. I do not contradict Archeron's words, but add to them.
I do not blame Victus Thrax. I say that again. I do not, at this time, blame Victus Thrax for what occured. But we must remember that eternal vigilance is the price of our freedom. We must never truly relax, because if we do? That's when the Enemy worms their way into our minds again.
Now, I am going to go get a drink, and do a bit of shopping, and enjoy the little things in life. We can't forget that either.
Subject: The changes of House Thrax
First off, I want to make it very clear that I have nothing but respect for the changes of House Thrax. I believe them to be both in the best interests of the Compact, and in their own as well. I support all of these changes, and am so very glad that the excesses of Donrai have come to an end. I am so happy to be working to rebuild my House in an atmosphere of cooperation and Godliness.
But I was old enough, unlike many here, to very clearly remember Victus' early years. I will not go into the details of his slaughter of my family, some of which I witnessed with my own two eyes. This is the past, and the only reason I even bring it to attention? Because it shows how very easy it is to be manipulated by those in power, like Donrai. how very quick things change, for better or for worse. How it takes only a few bad decisions, so easily excused at the time, to turn into something monstrous. I do not contradict Archeron's words, but add to them.
I do not blame Victus Thrax. I say that again. I do not, at this time, blame Victus Thrax for what occured. But we must remember that eternal vigilance is the price of our freedom. We must never truly relax, because if we do? That's when the Enemy worms their way into our minds again.
Now, I am going to go get a drink, and do a bit of shopping, and enjoy the little things in life. We can't forget that either.
Written By Oswyn
May 25, 2018, 8:59 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
When I hired Milton, I was relieved to have help for the numerous projects I am involved in or have the potential to be involved in. He is a good worker, diligent and thorough both. He assists in the shop as well.
There is so much to do, however, that I am beginning to wonder if I ought to have a second research assistant.
Life has certainly been busy.
There is so much to do, however, that I am beginning to wonder if I ought to have a second research assistant.
Life has certainly been busy.
Written By Gianna
May 25, 2018, 8:48 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
The Bard's College would be a somewhat informal organization dedicated to the improvement of musicians and singers by providing a place to gather, socialize, and train.
Such an establishment would draw musicians and the like to Arx; with them, they will bring songs, stories, and news of other places. This has the potential to be an information network.
Music is a universal language; it brings people together. One need not know the words to a song to enjoy it. A bard is also something of a diplomat; we read our audience and ingratiate ourselves to them, and in turn we are welcomed. A bard must have some mastery of etiquette, even if it's the informal etiquette of a rough tavern. A bard, through words and song, has influence.
Music is culture, and culture is Arx. There is currently no organization to contact should someone require a musician for their event. While the Whisper House is one place to find entertainers, not all bards are Whispers and not all Whispers are bards. Clearly, there is some overlap, and it is my hope that the bards would have a partnership of sorts with the Whisper House. The College would also be a place for Whispers and others to learn how to sing and play instruments, skills that are certainly helpful when it comes to entertaining.
I wonder if the term 'college' might be confusing. Bards would be free to come and go, of course. There is the possibility for rooms to lodge in in the future, should the organization prove successful.
A Bard's Hall? Music House? Music Hall? I am certainly open to other names.
Such an establishment would draw musicians and the like to Arx; with them, they will bring songs, stories, and news of other places. This has the potential to be an information network.
Music is a universal language; it brings people together. One need not know the words to a song to enjoy it. A bard is also something of a diplomat; we read our audience and ingratiate ourselves to them, and in turn we are welcomed. A bard must have some mastery of etiquette, even if it's the informal etiquette of a rough tavern. A bard, through words and song, has influence.
Music is culture, and culture is Arx. There is currently no organization to contact should someone require a musician for their event. While the Whisper House is one place to find entertainers, not all bards are Whispers and not all Whispers are bards. Clearly, there is some overlap, and it is my hope that the bards would have a partnership of sorts with the Whisper House. The College would also be a place for Whispers and others to learn how to sing and play instruments, skills that are certainly helpful when it comes to entertaining.
I wonder if the term 'college' might be confusing. Bards would be free to come and go, of course. There is the possibility for rooms to lodge in in the future, should the organization prove successful.
A Bard's Hall? Music House? Music Hall? I am certainly open to other names.
Written By Kaine
May 25, 2018, 8:33 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
The offers I've gotten for help with my project have truly been heartening. I will endeavor to continue to use my increasing wealth to help those in need.
Written By Archeron
May 25, 2018, 8:22 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
Trying to understand why Donrai Thrax did anything is like trying to hold back the tides that lap at Maelstrom's docks. It is a task without end and you will be mad long before it is finished.
I am lucky in that I did not meet the man in his lifetime. Everything Abbas thought he had to do to safeguard the Isles, Donrai was willing to do and revel in. He was the true embodiment of our cruelty, of our excess. He is a reminder of what Thrax can be if we are unleashed from our moral compass, if we do what we can because we please. To reave and destroy and hurt with no care or end. In that sense though, Donrai was a cure for us from that.
Look at the time since his passing. Even as Thrax houses rise, as we restore ourselves, there has not been a return to reaving. Tyde ships have not raided Grimhall lands. Grimhall has not raided the Grayson coast. Bodies do not rise on the clifftops, crucified to warn our enemies that we have been, and will go where we please. Look at what he has left in his wake. Prince Victus is more a victim of Donrai than most - he was at times the sword that Donrai chose to wield, to do his deeds. And now, Victus leads as a modern ruler. He is decisive, but he also seeks advice. He rules by consent with his nobles. He is a man who is worthy of respect far more than his predecessor. Because he builds Thrax. He doesn't use it as a tool, he works for the good of Thrax, not burning Thrax for his own good. And as a person he might be scary at times, but I have never felt that fear myself. Because I know he wishes to be just. And I trust him.
When Kennex decided to abolish Thralldom - whatever you think about their rashness or righteousness - you saw the ships of all of the Isles there helping, and many of their former Thralls now live on Tyde Isle as freemen, some as scholars in our University others tend the woods, and all the other jobs men have. The pressure on Kennex was relieved, they were allowed to breath again, and restore themselves to their feet even if it will be a time before they are healthy again. I do not think that would have happened under the man I understand Donrai to have been. Seeing them struggle on the ground, the weight of their decision crushing their chest, pressing the air from their bodies....I think he would have added his boot to their throat, and smiled as he watched the fires die out. Or worse, had another man take that burden while he watched.
I am lucky in that I did not meet the man in his lifetime. Everything Abbas thought he had to do to safeguard the Isles, Donrai was willing to do and revel in. He was the true embodiment of our cruelty, of our excess. He is a reminder of what Thrax can be if we are unleashed from our moral compass, if we do what we can because we please. To reave and destroy and hurt with no care or end. In that sense though, Donrai was a cure for us from that.
Look at the time since his passing. Even as Thrax houses rise, as we restore ourselves, there has not been a return to reaving. Tyde ships have not raided Grimhall lands. Grimhall has not raided the Grayson coast. Bodies do not rise on the clifftops, crucified to warn our enemies that we have been, and will go where we please. Look at what he has left in his wake. Prince Victus is more a victim of Donrai than most - he was at times the sword that Donrai chose to wield, to do his deeds. And now, Victus leads as a modern ruler. He is decisive, but he also seeks advice. He rules by consent with his nobles. He is a man who is worthy of respect far more than his predecessor. Because he builds Thrax. He doesn't use it as a tool, he works for the good of Thrax, not burning Thrax for his own good. And as a person he might be scary at times, but I have never felt that fear myself. Because I know he wishes to be just. And I trust him.
When Kennex decided to abolish Thralldom - whatever you think about their rashness or righteousness - you saw the ships of all of the Isles there helping, and many of their former Thralls now live on Tyde Isle as freemen, some as scholars in our University others tend the woods, and all the other jobs men have. The pressure on Kennex was relieved, they were allowed to breath again, and restore themselves to their feet even if it will be a time before they are healthy again. I do not think that would have happened under the man I understand Donrai to have been. Seeing them struggle on the ground, the weight of their decision crushing their chest, pressing the air from their bodies....I think he would have added his boot to their throat, and smiled as he watched the fires die out. Or worse, had another man take that burden while he watched.
Written By Cullen
May 25, 2018, 7:32 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
As one could probably expect, the decision to simplify my life in some respects has brought a sort of calm I've not known since arriving in Arx. I still manage to offend people on a semi-regular basis - just less often, since I'm now often in the woods or in the company of people not likely to cause much in the way of trouble.
The activity in the Gold Order has been quite pleasing, and under Dame Alexis' guidance and with Princess Gwenna Redrain assisting us in all matters not martial - because, let's face it, I doubt any of us are very adept with methods of persuasion and finance that don't require swinging a weapon at something - I look forward to seeing where it shall go.
The activity in the Gold Order has been quite pleasing, and under Dame Alexis' guidance and with Princess Gwenna Redrain assisting us in all matters not martial - because, let's face it, I doubt any of us are very adept with methods of persuasion and finance that don't require swinging a weapon at something - I look forward to seeing where it shall go.
Written By Sina
May 25, 2018, 3:38 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Today was a good day. I come out the other side of it feeling more at peace with my thoughts and my decisions. Now, I must simply follow through. It is time to begin a new journey in my life. It is time to take a different path. I feel happier for it, though I shall have some regrets for what I will leave behind.
Today was a day of conversations and intellectual discourse, laughter and mischief too. It was a day of self-discovery and purpose, of coming into myself. One cannot ask for more out of a day, I think. I feel truly blessed to know the people that I know. It seems a fitting way to begin the next year of my life. A new anniversary of my birth. A new beginning. I pray that Lagoma's light guide me in wisdom through this time of change.
It was a good day.
Today was a day of conversations and intellectual discourse, laughter and mischief too. It was a day of self-discovery and purpose, of coming into myself. One cannot ask for more out of a day, I think. I feel truly blessed to know the people that I know. It seems a fitting way to begin the next year of my life. A new anniversary of my birth. A new beginning. I pray that Lagoma's light guide me in wisdom through this time of change.
It was a good day.
Written By Roxana
May 25, 2018, 12:48 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirene
Bad News Big Sis,
I didn't know those baby names were a secret and so I told like thirty or forty people when I was drunk in the Ambassador the other night.
I think I was probably slurring a little though so maybe nobody knows for sure?
Ooopsie! Love you!
P.S. Just kidding you know I never get drunk in public.
P.P.S. For any of you wondering what her baby name picks are....I'll part with them for 500k in silver. Each.
P.P.P.S Just kidding!
Addendum: Probably. That is a lot of money...
I didn't know those baby names were a secret and so I told like thirty or forty people when I was drunk in the Ambassador the other night.
I think I was probably slurring a little though so maybe nobody knows for sure?
Ooopsie! Love you!
P.S. Just kidding you know I never get drunk in public.
P.P.S. For any of you wondering what her baby name picks are....I'll part with them for 500k in silver. Each.
P.P.P.S Just kidding!
Addendum: Probably. That is a lot of money...
Written By Monique
May 25, 2018, 12:41 a.m.(11/3/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Josephine
Mistress Josephine Arcuri. Was there ever a talent more blessed by Jayus? I think not. And I'm not just saying that because she has crafted for me a tiara that is more beautiful than any crown I have ever seen. Yes, Alaric, even yours.
I praise her to the Gods and to anyone else who will listen, and have donated a large sum of silver in honor of her work to the Faith of the Pantheon.
I'm not going to take this work of art off for a good, long time. Yes, I fully plan to bathe and sleep in it, humility be damned!
I praise her to the Gods and to anyone else who will listen, and have donated a large sum of silver in honor of her work to the Faith of the Pantheon.
I'm not going to take this work of art off for a good, long time. Yes, I fully plan to bathe and sleep in it, humility be damned!
Written By Fredrik
May 24, 2018, 10:04 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
from: the desk of Lord Fredrik RedTyde
Subject: Answering the missives of inquiring ladies
It is never wise to ignore a lady's missives, especially when she is of good breeding and excellent charm. Or possessed of angry siblings. Or if she knows her way around an apothecary set. Or if she still has a grudge when you answer her and carries a dagger. Or sword.
Just don't ignore Ladies.
Subject: Answering the missives of inquiring ladies
It is never wise to ignore a lady's missives, especially when she is of good breeding and excellent charm. Or possessed of angry siblings. Or if she knows her way around an apothecary set. Or if she still has a grudge when you answer her and carries a dagger. Or sword.
Just don't ignore Ladies.
Written By Roxana
May 24, 2018, 9:20 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
It is /still/ very rude not to answer a lady's missives expressing interest in seeing you, whether you are a handsome man or not, a busy man or not.
Perhaps I should have stuck to those of good breeding, good families, for they know how to treat these sorts of situations.
Or perhaps the gentleman in question should simply write me back.
Perhaps I should have stuck to those of good breeding, good families, for they know how to treat these sorts of situations.
Or perhaps the gentleman in question should simply write me back.
Written By Roxana
May 24, 2018, 9:18 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirene
You're going to be good at this, big sister.
The motherhood thing. You are. I promise you.
And if you need help, you have it. I did manage to raise a son to almost ten years of age, and though I'm not in daily contact with him, I take credit for my work.
You're going to be good at this!
The motherhood thing. You are. I promise you.
And if you need help, you have it. I did manage to raise a son to almost ten years of age, and though I'm not in daily contact with him, I take credit for my work.
You're going to be good at this!
Written By Sparte
May 24, 2018, 7:59 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
There once was a woman who killed her mum, was born before her father, and wed her brother. She was good and true and committed no crime. How is this possible?
I take no credit for the riddle, it is one from the collection I've put together over the years. Like most questions, age does not diminish the value of a good answer. Send messengers if you think you've puzzled out the answer, don't spoil it for others.
SF
I take no credit for the riddle, it is one from the collection I've put together over the years. Like most questions, age does not diminish the value of a good answer. Send messengers if you think you've puzzled out the answer, don't spoil it for others.
SF
Written By Percephon
May 24, 2018, 7:53 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
Fundamentally, rhetorical speech is the art of persuasion, embracing all those verbal tricks, patterns and subtleties used to gain acceptance from an audience.
Written By Samantha
May 24, 2018, 6:44 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
I have been unsettled of late.
There are many who refer to me as the Conscience of the Peers, but of late I've been overwhelmed with so many complicated feelings. Frustration, malaise, and in some degree, hopelessness. Like no matter what I do, it will never be enough, and there is no room for forgiveness when it comes to mistakes I make. That there is so much going on and so much information to recall. That some destinies may be inevitable, no matter how hard we fight against them.
There's an ancient story of a man who believed that if he pushed a giant stone up a mountain, he would have everything he desired. But every time he came near the peak, he would stumble, or some other incident would occur, and he would lose his grip on the stone, and it would go rolling right back down. He was doomed for eternity to keep pushing that rock up the mountain.
Am I that man? I believe that I am who I am and what I am because it means I can use the power I've been granted to help raise others who need an opportunity to rise. I do what I can, but I am also constantly told that it is not enough.
I am trying.
I don't see how this truth is anything other than whining, Scholar.
There are many who refer to me as the Conscience of the Peers, but of late I've been overwhelmed with so many complicated feelings. Frustration, malaise, and in some degree, hopelessness. Like no matter what I do, it will never be enough, and there is no room for forgiveness when it comes to mistakes I make. That there is so much going on and so much information to recall. That some destinies may be inevitable, no matter how hard we fight against them.
There's an ancient story of a man who believed that if he pushed a giant stone up a mountain, he would have everything he desired. But every time he came near the peak, he would stumble, or some other incident would occur, and he would lose his grip on the stone, and it would go rolling right back down. He was doomed for eternity to keep pushing that rock up the mountain.
Am I that man? I believe that I am who I am and what I am because it means I can use the power I've been granted to help raise others who need an opportunity to rise. I do what I can, but I am also constantly told that it is not enough.
I am trying.
I don't see how this truth is anything other than whining, Scholar.
Written By Victus
May 24, 2018, 6:17 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Arik
Assuming you're asking these questions seriously:
1. No.
2. No.
3. Accepted, ennoblement is earned.
4. Yes.
5. Usually. Depends on the conflict though.
1. No.
2. No.
3. Accepted, ennoblement is earned.
4. Yes.
5. Usually. Depends on the conflict though.
Written By Eirene
May 24, 2018, 6:16 p.m.(11/2/1008 AR)
Unrelated topic. I picked names for the baby if it's a boy or girl. I won't share them here else some prego woman who pops before me steals them.
Pregnancy sucks. I am only doing this the one time for the sake of duty to House Malvici and then it's back on herbs the rest of my miserable life.
But I am really trying to be more positive for this kid. They don't deserve a screwed up mother like me. I want better for them. And it scares me to think of what monsters are out there (literal and figurative) which I'll have to shield them from. Because I've seen those monsters.
Pregnancy sucks. I am only doing this the one time for the sake of duty to House Malvici and then it's back on herbs the rest of my miserable life.
But I am really trying to be more positive for this kid. They don't deserve a screwed up mother like me. I want better for them. And it scares me to think of what monsters are out there (literal and figurative) which I'll have to shield them from. Because I've seen those monsters.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.