Written By Samantha
March 23, 2017, 12:29 p.m.(2/22/1006 AR)
30,000.
I stare at the report in front of me, unable to believe what has been accomplished.
30,000 Abandoned have bent the knee and taken up the laws and loyalties of the Compact. 5,000 of that number have taken up the southern defense of the March, nipping at the heels of Brand's army. Some less of that have pushed on to provide aid to Arx, though some fear they will be mistaken for Abandoned rather than newly Prodigal. I will make sure they have some kind of mark upon them of the Deepwood colors and sigil so that they are not confused for foe instead of friend.
With the support of House Riven, I opened the way for the Abandoned of the Gray Forest to come into my lands as refugees. I did not demand they bend the knee, but did insist they act as guests - follow the laws of the land and refrain from any practices that were anathema to the Pantheon. This gave us the opportunity to show them the benefits of the Compact, to offer diplomacy and recognize them as people. To Prove to them that the Compact can be compassionate, a uniting force, a light against the darkness.
And they bent knee. I am pleased to have achieved what I had hoped, and daunted by the idea that this is an event worthy of remark in our history. Humbled by the weight of that, and the trust these people have put in me and mine.
House Riven has served me beyond my wildest expectations. I only hope that I continue to be worthy of their loyalty.
I stare at the report in front of me, unable to believe what has been accomplished.
30,000 Abandoned have bent the knee and taken up the laws and loyalties of the Compact. 5,000 of that number have taken up the southern defense of the March, nipping at the heels of Brand's army. Some less of that have pushed on to provide aid to Arx, though some fear they will be mistaken for Abandoned rather than newly Prodigal. I will make sure they have some kind of mark upon them of the Deepwood colors and sigil so that they are not confused for foe instead of friend.
With the support of House Riven, I opened the way for the Abandoned of the Gray Forest to come into my lands as refugees. I did not demand they bend the knee, but did insist they act as guests - follow the laws of the land and refrain from any practices that were anathema to the Pantheon. This gave us the opportunity to show them the benefits of the Compact, to offer diplomacy and recognize them as people. To Prove to them that the Compact can be compassionate, a uniting force, a light against the darkness.
And they bent knee. I am pleased to have achieved what I had hoped, and daunted by the idea that this is an event worthy of remark in our history. Humbled by the weight of that, and the trust these people have put in me and mine.
House Riven has served me beyond my wildest expectations. I only hope that I continue to be worthy of their loyalty.
Written By Alis
March 23, 2017, 12:16 p.m.(2/22/1006 AR)
I've considered what I want to say about the River Column battle for days now, but the right words just fail me. I have never been very eloquent so I will simply say that the bravery and skill of those I fought beside is beyond compare. And we should celebrate these victories, while we reflect on those who gave their lives to help us make it happen.
But since I hadn't been able to think of words, I'd set upon another task. Sitting with the injured while they recuperate, we've sewn replicas of vassal and Valardin battle standards, or dictated letters to scribes with remembered stories of someone. There's nothing that can replace the loss of a family member, but when the notification arrives - accompanied by an honor guard - it will come with a battle standard of their own house and that of valardin, as well as those fond written memories from their comrades. And. the assurance that the name of their fallen loved one will be inscribed on the memorial wall we keep at Sanctum. A knight or soldier's ultimate sacrifice is never forgotten.
But since I hadn't been able to think of words, I'd set upon another task. Sitting with the injured while they recuperate, we've sewn replicas of vassal and Valardin battle standards, or dictated letters to scribes with remembered stories of someone. There's nothing that can replace the loss of a family member, but when the notification arrives - accompanied by an honor guard - it will come with a battle standard of their own house and that of valardin, as well as those fond written memories from their comrades. And. the assurance that the name of their fallen loved one will be inscribed on the memorial wall we keep at Sanctum. A knight or soldier's ultimate sacrifice is never forgotten.
Written By Aiden
March 23, 2017, 11:45 a.m.(2/22/1006 AR)
When I first arrived to Arx, I was told my brother was in seclusion. I was too late to arrive to catch him before the tragedy of serving the blade had made it's first real lethal score in my brother's heart. I was not going to be the one to barge into his room and interrupt what he was dealing with. He must be left to do that and I to watch for an opportunity when I did not have break the boundaries he had set up. I respect him far too greatly to cross them.
I wandered then to the city, coming across Brother Branan's book shop. It was a splendid shop and one that every avid reader must attend. I found a copy of histories newly written of the Iron Rebellion and the Battle at Pridehall. I purchased both, to read in my spare time while I watched for Ainsley.
Dear reader, you should understand I have always watched him. Since the time we were young children, I always watched what he would do. When he was six, I snuck away from my own lessons to peer from a window as he got scolded by our mother for sword play rather than the dance lesson he was scheduled for. I watched years later, from the confines of my own lecture study out the window into the Grayson yard, as he chopped away at the air in determination to learn his forms. I always watched. I watched as I came across him when he was sixteen and worked himself to exhaustion that he could not stand, staggering to a knee. He always pushed too hard. I told him he would do great things one day and that, is clear, he has achieved, for the histories are already speaking well of him. But I told him, as he missed dinner again and I helped him rise from that knee, there would be a point that he could go no further, that he needed to rest.
I saw him last night, in a private stretch of gardens, pushing himself yet again, anguish filling my heart for what I saw of him. Still, he was so refined with the blade, as I've never had chance to witness before. I know why the scholars have written of him. He was one with the blade, the weapon a true extension of his being, or maybe, the blade used him as one. It awed me, to watch him so, and made my soul ache. Then he saw me. I told him as I often did, that he had missed dinner again, reminding him it was time to rest, taking him back to his room. He enjoyed hearing of my birds and the memories of our childhood, I got him to laugh, a small one, but a smile too that I feel somewhere in my heart may be the last I see from him for a while. He ate a little, but he was so different now, I saw it. I put him to soft comforts as I carried on, watching him fall asleep as I spoke on about the gyrfalcons and the Mews. It always helped before, put him to sleep after he spent a day in the yard drilling. It worked again last night.
And for the first time, I wept.
I have seen what a life serving the blade has done to him.
I cannot undo it.
Nor can anyone else.
He has reached a point he can go no further.
He needs to rest now.
Let him rest.
Gods, let him rest.
I wandered then to the city, coming across Brother Branan's book shop. It was a splendid shop and one that every avid reader must attend. I found a copy of histories newly written of the Iron Rebellion and the Battle at Pridehall. I purchased both, to read in my spare time while I watched for Ainsley.
Dear reader, you should understand I have always watched him. Since the time we were young children, I always watched what he would do. When he was six, I snuck away from my own lessons to peer from a window as he got scolded by our mother for sword play rather than the dance lesson he was scheduled for. I watched years later, from the confines of my own lecture study out the window into the Grayson yard, as he chopped away at the air in determination to learn his forms. I always watched. I watched as I came across him when he was sixteen and worked himself to exhaustion that he could not stand, staggering to a knee. He always pushed too hard. I told him he would do great things one day and that, is clear, he has achieved, for the histories are already speaking well of him. But I told him, as he missed dinner again and I helped him rise from that knee, there would be a point that he could go no further, that he needed to rest.
I saw him last night, in a private stretch of gardens, pushing himself yet again, anguish filling my heart for what I saw of him. Still, he was so refined with the blade, as I've never had chance to witness before. I know why the scholars have written of him. He was one with the blade, the weapon a true extension of his being, or maybe, the blade used him as one. It awed me, to watch him so, and made my soul ache. Then he saw me. I told him as I often did, that he had missed dinner again, reminding him it was time to rest, taking him back to his room. He enjoyed hearing of my birds and the memories of our childhood, I got him to laugh, a small one, but a smile too that I feel somewhere in my heart may be the last I see from him for a while. He ate a little, but he was so different now, I saw it. I put him to soft comforts as I carried on, watching him fall asleep as I spoke on about the gyrfalcons and the Mews. It always helped before, put him to sleep after he spent a day in the yard drilling. It worked again last night.
And for the first time, I wept.
I have seen what a life serving the blade has done to him.
I cannot undo it.
Nor can anyone else.
He has reached a point he can go no further.
He needs to rest now.
Let him rest.
Gods, let him rest.
Written By Lark
March 23, 2017, 10:30 a.m.(2/21/1006 AR)
I listen beyond my rooms as a morning lark ushers in the dawn, singing her sweet song. When did her existence amongst the snow-covered grounds become one of defiance? It does not feel like a new day, yet invisible in the line of trees, high above the bedraggled winter fox as it clumsily scrounges to remember the location of its long-spent stash, she perseveres to tell me so. She sings as if to say, ‘It is daybreak and you must stir for there are those who on this day do not.’
Written By Aldwin
March 23, 2017, 6:48 a.m.(2/21/1006 AR)
I have long had a fascination with the Hall of Heroes. Of particular note are the heroes who stood in the front room, the Metallic Order and others who were not of the Compact but gave their lives in its defense. I have documented matters of their lives before, and offered their tales up as inspiration to those who needed it in these troubled times. Recently I received a great gift - a recollection of one who witnessed that horrible time at the Reckoning. It has struck with me, and I wanted to share a piece of it now.
"But under it, beneath it, all I saw was a man, suffering beyond all endurance and challenged beyond all measure, who refused to die while we still needed him. The wonders and terrors of that day may fade into song and legend, but all that I will truly remember til my last day is the image of a single soul struggling to stand as all the Abyss sought to make him kneel."
Those are powerful words from a journal of one who saw Lord Gold fight for the survival of civilization. She did not say that he called forth the flames of Elysia, or that he glowed with Lagoma's favor. I call these powerful words because they show the depth of capability the human spirit has. Goldenpyre stood against those who would make him knee; he fought for Arx because he felt he had to, and he refused to give in. That is the greatest power of all: conviction. And his was the greatest gift: a love of others that drove him to sacrifice that we might, today, know existence.
"But under it, beneath it, all I saw was a man, suffering beyond all endurance and challenged beyond all measure, who refused to die while we still needed him. The wonders and terrors of that day may fade into song and legend, but all that I will truly remember til my last day is the image of a single soul struggling to stand as all the Abyss sought to make him kneel."
Those are powerful words from a journal of one who saw Lord Gold fight for the survival of civilization. She did not say that he called forth the flames of Elysia, or that he glowed with Lagoma's favor. I call these powerful words because they show the depth of capability the human spirit has. Goldenpyre stood against those who would make him knee; he fought for Arx because he felt he had to, and he refused to give in. That is the greatest power of all: conviction. And his was the greatest gift: a love of others that drove him to sacrifice that we might, today, know existence.
Written By Aldwin
March 23, 2017, 6:39 a.m.(2/21/1006 AR)
With the Bringers and Shav'arvani that serve them engaged in battle and closing in on Arx, the city has grown restless. I am thankful for those who have joined in on the walks of prayer and guidance through the city - Sister Umay and Archscholar Bianca - as well as the aid of the Mercies - Mercy Sophie has been invaluablue - as these have brought some calm to the populace. 10,000 Knights and Arsmen have been mustered in Arx to prepare for what makes its way through the Gray Forest, and thousands more joined the likes of Duke Cristoph and Marquessa Demura to harry the invaders before they arrive.
With Tolamar Brand on his way, I take further heartening in the Compact and the strength it has managed to show. While the White Stewards have done their best to fracture us, we have still pulled together and accomplished something wonderful. Officially now I record this, though the deed is now somewhat in the past: we have annointed the Paladins and they will stand strong in faith and will against the likes of this Herald. Once this war is over, I will arrange a proper thank you for those who contributed to the effort. Let it here be recorded, though, for posterity:
To the Lady Aislin Ashford and her group of investigators, the Faith thanks you for finding Palladium's notes.
To those who contributed to the required sacrifice, the Faith thanks you as well.
Redrain: <<2,000 economic resources>>
The Crown: <<1500>>
Valardin: <<1,500>>
Grayson: <<1,389>>
Velenosa: <<1,000>>Rubino-Zafria: <<1,000>>
The Silver Consortium: <<1,000>>
Grayhope: <<850>>
Golden Hart: <<707>>
Sir Aleksei Morgan: <<366>>
And to the Disciples, Godsworn, and others of the Faith who dilligent worked to raise over 2,000 as well, my thanks.
All who came together for this effort are owed a debt of grattitude by the Compact.
With Tolamar Brand on his way, I take further heartening in the Compact and the strength it has managed to show. While the White Stewards have done their best to fracture us, we have still pulled together and accomplished something wonderful. Officially now I record this, though the deed is now somewhat in the past: we have annointed the Paladins and they will stand strong in faith and will against the likes of this Herald. Once this war is over, I will arrange a proper thank you for those who contributed to the effort. Let it here be recorded, though, for posterity:
To the Lady Aislin Ashford and her group of investigators, the Faith thanks you for finding Palladium's notes.
To those who contributed to the required sacrifice, the Faith thanks you as well.
Redrain: <<2,000 economic resources>>
The Crown: <<1500>>
Valardin: <<1,500>>
Grayson: <<1,389>>
Velenosa: <<1,000>>Rubino-Zafria: <<1,000>>
The Silver Consortium: <<1,000>>
Grayhope: <<850>>
Golden Hart: <<707>>
Sir Aleksei Morgan: <<366>>
And to the Disciples, Godsworn, and others of the Faith who dilligent worked to raise over 2,000 as well, my thanks.
All who came together for this effort are owed a debt of grattitude by the Compact.
Written By Vanora
March 23, 2017, 1:16 a.m.(2/21/1006 AR)
The next time I meet her, all of my questions will be answered, or I shall have to offer my most sincere of scowls until the answers flow forth like so much water.
The next time I meet her, I will find out what all of her questions are, and whether we are seeing eye to eye on all that is happening around us or from two different worlds, both swirling in glass.
There is so much more to know before I am any use to anyone. So much more to do. So much more to be.
Thirteenth Guide Me.
The next time I meet her, I will find out what all of her questions are, and whether we are seeing eye to eye on all that is happening around us or from two different worlds, both swirling in glass.
There is so much more to know before I am any use to anyone. So much more to do. So much more to be.
Thirteenth Guide Me.
Written By Vanora
March 23, 2017, 12:04 a.m.(2/21/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
There was a time when I was a girl when I looked upon Isolde with envy black and hot in my blood. I wanted to be favored as she was, I would have done anything.
As I grew older and we became a part of one another's lives envy changed to admiration. It is not our duty, our role, to seek being favored, but rather to be worthy of the truths that we know and the Reflection that gives us the ability to be so much more than what we are. In that I am blessed enough to have been able to experience the path that I did so far. The difference between favored and devoted becomes thinner once we move past our own vanity to see it glorified through the constant betterment of the self. Isolde helped me once to understand these things and so much more. It is then that envy was replaced in total with admiration, affection, and a bond that is hard to explain in full.
I am so pleased to be here in Arx where she is now, to reconnect, and to be able to look to her during all that lies ahead.
As I grew older and we became a part of one another's lives envy changed to admiration. It is not our duty, our role, to seek being favored, but rather to be worthy of the truths that we know and the Reflection that gives us the ability to be so much more than what we are. In that I am blessed enough to have been able to experience the path that I did so far. The difference between favored and devoted becomes thinner once we move past our own vanity to see it glorified through the constant betterment of the self. Isolde helped me once to understand these things and so much more. It is then that envy was replaced in total with admiration, affection, and a bond that is hard to explain in full.
I am so pleased to be here in Arx where she is now, to reconnect, and to be able to look to her during all that lies ahead.
Written By Zhayla
March 22, 2017, 10:44 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
I rode out with the Deepwood and Grayson forces to take place in the battle upriver against the Bringer troops. We fought not only shav'arvani, but a giant. A Formorian. That's what they called the giant that we killed.
This one wasn't like the other one we met: this one was animated by dark magic, and anyway, it only had one head. But I found myself thinking of the other. Was he -- were they? -- Formorian, too? I've never heard of Formorians!! What are they? Are they like us? Where are they from? Was he, like the shav'arvani, made to fight against his own will, or did he give himself to the Silence?
Of course, none of those questions matter. I fought with the Grayson forces, right by Prince Barric and Princess Reese, even!! I was one of the many that lifted our blades to bring the Formorian down. It didn't matter where he came from or why he was here as he led the forces against us. All that mattered is that we stopped him, that we stopped them. When we killed him -- Serafine knocking him right off his feet, it was amazing!! -- the will of the shav'arvani following him dissolved like smoke, just like his body.
It makes me so uneasy, the way something real can just fade away like that. It's not right.
When the shav'arvani column collapsed, I braced for the slaughter that woud follow. But -- it didn't come. Dagon was first and clearest to lift his voice and order a halt, and it was echoed down the line. I'm ashamed that I was so surprised. I should have had more faith in them. Sometimes it's hard, when even people I respect a lot talk of the Abandoned like an infection, and I see the way some treat Prodigals every day.
But still -- still. It's not everyone, and when it mattered, they remembered.
This one wasn't like the other one we met: this one was animated by dark magic, and anyway, it only had one head. But I found myself thinking of the other. Was he -- were they? -- Formorian, too? I've never heard of Formorians!! What are they? Are they like us? Where are they from? Was he, like the shav'arvani, made to fight against his own will, or did he give himself to the Silence?
Of course, none of those questions matter. I fought with the Grayson forces, right by Prince Barric and Princess Reese, even!! I was one of the many that lifted our blades to bring the Formorian down. It didn't matter where he came from or why he was here as he led the forces against us. All that mattered is that we stopped him, that we stopped them. When we killed him -- Serafine knocking him right off his feet, it was amazing!! -- the will of the shav'arvani following him dissolved like smoke, just like his body.
It makes me so uneasy, the way something real can just fade away like that. It's not right.
When the shav'arvani column collapsed, I braced for the slaughter that woud follow. But -- it didn't come. Dagon was first and clearest to lift his voice and order a halt, and it was echoed down the line. I'm ashamed that I was so surprised. I should have had more faith in them. Sometimes it's hard, when even people I respect a lot talk of the Abandoned like an infection, and I see the way some treat Prodigals every day.
But still -- still. It's not everyone, and when it mattered, they remembered.
Written By Dulcinea
March 22, 2017, 10:37 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Calliope
Dear Me,
What a charming lady! Full marks. Would tea with again.
With Fond Thoughts,
Me
What a charming lady! Full marks. Would tea with again.
With Fond Thoughts,
Me
Written By Merek
March 22, 2017, 9:32 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Ok, the Guards have been trained, and those who have not evacuated, for whatever reason there might be for them, have been led to safe places within the city, defensable positions that will keep them safe in case the worst happens. That said, I'm confident with a combined efforts of the most skilled in the Guard, we should be able to help defend the city in full with the assistance of the armies of the Houses. With one column already having been taken down, that means we can likely turn the tide, as long as the enemies don't bring out more of their more powerful defenders. It might cause some problems, but I think that victory will be for Arx.
Written By Dulcinea
March 22, 2017, 5:18 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ansel
Dear Me,
The battle is won. That much has come back to Arx, and many white journals of victory.
Huzzah.
Were there word from my BROTHER, I could celebrate. Just a little.
Or at least breathe.
Ansel, if you are not dead and have failed to notify me, I will kill you.
Ready to Put Arrows in Something,
Me
The battle is won. That much has come back to Arx, and many white journals of victory.
Huzzah.
Were there word from my BROTHER, I could celebrate. Just a little.
Or at least breathe.
Ansel, if you are not dead and have failed to notify me, I will kill you.
Ready to Put Arrows in Something,
Me
Written By Sigurd
March 22, 2017, 2:54 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Well, we fucking did it. We managed to slow down a column of twenty thousand Shavs, with only two hundred-and-some losses of our own. My hat does off to those who assisted us in this insane adventure.
Cristoph- Your planning was the most excellent I have ever seen, no offense to my friend and minister Calypso. Every strategy countered, every ploy exploited. We bled those fuckers nearly dry, and it's thanks to you.
Aislin- Dearest cousin and most wonderful scout, your knowledge of the land and the points we could use was invaluable. You allowed us to set the best of traps and kill thousands of these bastards for so few losses of our own.
Tivka - I will admit, I saw little of you in person, but you were almost as instrumental as Aislin in helping our forces keep clear of the enemy and waylay them at every turn, and for that, you have my thanks and the gratitude of my house.
Niamh - Your blade ended many, many shav lives, and that is the most I could ask of most anyone that comes with my on such adventures. May your sword stay sharp, for there are many more to slay before it is all done.
Jael- without your supplies, we would have faltered and floundered and not achieved a tenth of what we managed to do. the logistics officer, the unsung hero of any campaign (or so my brother likes to tell me constantly).
Isidora - Healers are the backbone of recovery from any campaign, and many of my men and Duke Cristoph's are alive now who wouldn't be, thanks to you and yours.
Demura - I don't know what the shit you DID to those shavs in the other column, but I saw the smoke from where I was standing, so you did an excellent job. Bravo.
Brand is approaching in the third column, I think. That's where our men were lost, most of them, trying to assault it. I don't know, I didn't get to set eyes on him, and probably should be very thankful I did not. I also saw little glimpses of a giant figure in the midst of the column, but was assuming my eyes were playing tricks on me until I got the River attack report from Calypso. Well, that's gonna be a bitch and a half to deal with, but as they proved over there, we can and we /will/ deal with it.
To my men? Thank you. For everything. I will carve your names into the Wall myself.
Cristoph- Your planning was the most excellent I have ever seen, no offense to my friend and minister Calypso. Every strategy countered, every ploy exploited. We bled those fuckers nearly dry, and it's thanks to you.
Aislin- Dearest cousin and most wonderful scout, your knowledge of the land and the points we could use was invaluable. You allowed us to set the best of traps and kill thousands of these bastards for so few losses of our own.
Tivka - I will admit, I saw little of you in person, but you were almost as instrumental as Aislin in helping our forces keep clear of the enemy and waylay them at every turn, and for that, you have my thanks and the gratitude of my house.
Niamh - Your blade ended many, many shav lives, and that is the most I could ask of most anyone that comes with my on such adventures. May your sword stay sharp, for there are many more to slay before it is all done.
Jael- without your supplies, we would have faltered and floundered and not achieved a tenth of what we managed to do. the logistics officer, the unsung hero of any campaign (or so my brother likes to tell me constantly).
Isidora - Healers are the backbone of recovery from any campaign, and many of my men and Duke Cristoph's are alive now who wouldn't be, thanks to you and yours.
Demura - I don't know what the shit you DID to those shavs in the other column, but I saw the smoke from where I was standing, so you did an excellent job. Bravo.
Brand is approaching in the third column, I think. That's where our men were lost, most of them, trying to assault it. I don't know, I didn't get to set eyes on him, and probably should be very thankful I did not. I also saw little glimpses of a giant figure in the midst of the column, but was assuming my eyes were playing tricks on me until I got the River attack report from Calypso. Well, that's gonna be a bitch and a half to deal with, but as they proved over there, we can and we /will/ deal with it.
To my men? Thank you. For everything. I will carve your names into the Wall myself.
Written By Orathy
March 22, 2017, 1:02 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
*This letter looks like it has taken a LONG time to write. HOURS. It's dripping with the ink splotches in some of the loops and turns of each letter that would suggest struggles, not at the subject matter but at actually writing decently! Not that all the words are exactly in a straight line either. There are some words that appear larger than those beside it but, this journal shows way better than previous documentations*
To all whom suffered for my actions, I submit myself unto you to ask forgiveness.
It does not matter what I thought may or may not have happened; I should not have risked lives of those belonging to the Compact.
Nor should I have attended a Shrine, drunk, for angered words are harder to recant, but I do recant them which were addressed to Princess Reese Grayson and any nobility whom thought my words were a direct threat to their lives.
Prince Eric Thrax, Prince Castiel Thrax, Princess Reese Grayson, forgive my reckless actions and the humiliation suffered for it.
To all others aboard the ship or who had read my white journals after, anger changes a man's thoughts. I ask for your forgiveness as well.
I also ask for the forgiveness of the Gods, whom have already shown me the way at Sister Umay's side in what I must do.
Finally, I ask for forgiveness from House Pravus, for having acted rashly and that they should be shamed for what I did, alone, without prompting from any man or woman. These were my actions and mine alone. I accept them as they happened and recognize the error of my ways and will go forward better advised.
Let it be known, I will always fight for the good people of Arx, in ways that will not condemn anyone whom I serve to shame.
To all whom suffered for my actions, I submit myself unto you to ask forgiveness.
It does not matter what I thought may or may not have happened; I should not have risked lives of those belonging to the Compact.
Nor should I have attended a Shrine, drunk, for angered words are harder to recant, but I do recant them which were addressed to Princess Reese Grayson and any nobility whom thought my words were a direct threat to their lives.
Prince Eric Thrax, Prince Castiel Thrax, Princess Reese Grayson, forgive my reckless actions and the humiliation suffered for it.
To all others aboard the ship or who had read my white journals after, anger changes a man's thoughts. I ask for your forgiveness as well.
I also ask for the forgiveness of the Gods, whom have already shown me the way at Sister Umay's side in what I must do.
Finally, I ask for forgiveness from House Pravus, for having acted rashly and that they should be shamed for what I did, alone, without prompting from any man or woman. These were my actions and mine alone. I accept them as they happened and recognize the error of my ways and will go forward better advised.
Let it be known, I will always fight for the good people of Arx, in ways that will not condemn anyone whom I serve to shame.
Written By Eirene
March 22, 2017, 12:51 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
Lord Harald Grimhall. Grumpy hard as weathered leather but without the brittle break it can give. He calls me Death Guard. We're both old veterans of countless wars, understanding the duty, privilege, and sacrifice that means. Very good at what he does, on the salt and shore. Blood in the water, blood on the mud - and may none of it be ours.
We should go drinking sometime; I think we can share some great stories...
We should go drinking sometime; I think we can share some great stories...
Written By Eirene
March 22, 2017, 12:48 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Gods above, how can I express the pride and admiration I have for my kith and kin? All of them, even grumpy Karadoc, rose to the occasion and did what the Malvicis of yore gained their titles for. Saik and Malvici, side by side, cutting a swath through our foes. Felling a fucking giant, dead and shambling and towering as tall as buildings.
As Juliet put it, 'Now we know why Arx has such high walls'.
I am proud to be a Malvici and serve alongside such noble souls; commoner and noble, blood-family and bond-family alike.
Twenty Five Thousand lives shipped out with us. Two Thousand came back wrapped in blankets. Some of them were mine. Many were not.
The battle cry of the Phoenix Brigade is "We're greedy mother fuckers." And "What do we say to Death - Back off Bitch, this one is mine!" It used to be 'back off fucker' but knowing there is a goddess of death and rebirth means we have to modify with the times. But less than 10% is still too many. I know we will never come back without losses but we can continue to strive for that.
And as Isolde put it "Their Ending; Our Beginning."
Seeing as we killed a beast of yore, it's one hell of a beginning for the siege of Arx 1006.
And if anyone's counting, that's one hoardling and one famorian I've killed. Or helped kill. I scratched that giant fuck but didn't get through that rotting hide of its.
House Malvici -Our offical words are 'Neither fate nor chance'; but unofficially it's 'Return with your banner or wrapped in it'. We return with it held high.
As Juliet put it, 'Now we know why Arx has such high walls'.
I am proud to be a Malvici and serve alongside such noble souls; commoner and noble, blood-family and bond-family alike.
Twenty Five Thousand lives shipped out with us. Two Thousand came back wrapped in blankets. Some of them were mine. Many were not.
The battle cry of the Phoenix Brigade is "We're greedy mother fuckers." And "What do we say to Death - Back off Bitch, this one is mine!" It used to be 'back off fucker' but knowing there is a goddess of death and rebirth means we have to modify with the times. But less than 10% is still too many. I know we will never come back without losses but we can continue to strive for that.
And as Isolde put it "Their Ending; Our Beginning."
Seeing as we killed a beast of yore, it's one hell of a beginning for the siege of Arx 1006.
And if anyone's counting, that's one hoardling and one famorian I've killed. Or helped kill. I scratched that giant fuck but didn't get through that rotting hide of its.
House Malvici -Our offical words are 'Neither fate nor chance'; but unofficially it's 'Return with your banner or wrapped in it'. We return with it held high.
Written By Calypso
March 22, 2017, 12:28 p.m.(2/20/1006 AR)
Written on the journey home from the Gray River Battle
The victory won against the bringer column was hard fought. Everyone played their role perfectly. The ships set out the way they needed to. The land was well picked. The combatants were ferocious in their attack. The archers landed blows through difficult misty visibility.
We killed a Giant.
I am proud of all those who fought hard and will honor those whose names made it on to the butcher's bill. Sacrifice of the few so the many my continue living.
The victory won against the bringer column was hard fought. Everyone played their role perfectly. The ships set out the way they needed to. The land was well picked. The combatants were ferocious in their attack. The archers landed blows through difficult misty visibility.
We killed a Giant.
I am proud of all those who fought hard and will honor those whose names made it on to the butcher's bill. Sacrifice of the few so the many my continue living.
Written By Silas
March 22, 2017, 4:32 a.m.(2/19/1006 AR)
News from down river has been good so far. I remain cautiously optimistic, and proud of what some of my friends have accomplished in their bravery.
I still have some things to do and some people to meet, but we are ready for whatever comes.
I still have some things to do and some people to meet, but we are ready for whatever comes.
Written By Reese
March 22, 2017, 3:37 a.m.(2/19/1006 AR)
The Battle of Gray River
Lady Commander Calypso lead Compact in an attack against the Bringer of Silence Army marching upon Arx. Count Frederik Steelhart found a place at Sorrow’s Point where the archers could reach high ground and rain arrows on the army from above.
The weather was cold and there was a mist that veiled one’s vision. Upon their high ground and into the mists the archers fired as Inquisitor Alistair beseeched the gods with his prayers. Others prayed, speeches were given and Prince Talon spoke of moon pale skin. “Mercy is no virtue. Daring is never a vice” Count Darkwater called from his Black Mountain Ships. “Their End. Our beginning.” Lady Eirene exclaimed. Captain Audric was thinking of tits. The Redrain and Greenmarcher archers lead by Princess Deva and Lord Fiachra with Lord Esteban at their side fired taking down many a shav.
Lord Inigo destroyed a full plated bringer, tearing his arm off with a single blow of his diamond plate blade. Lenosian’s warriors fell behind, but Lady Calypso helped to rally them. Lord Artorius took off a bringer’s leg with with one powerful hit. Lord Harald’s firm and grim courage urged on him men. Lord Valdemar while leading his forces was hit on the back, but rescued by the Grimhall lord. The Duke of Tyde killed shav after shav with his heirloom blade. Southport forces held the center as Calypso gave her orders. Baroness Kima fought shavs, keeping them away from the Commander as Lady Caelis and her marines fell in to give support. Audric with Leta at right held the lines of Shav back. Princess Alis lead a sudden push that drove back the shav lines even as some of the compact warriors were trapped, pressed in by a large pack. I took a blow to my head, but was saved by the actions of my cousin Prince Barric and by Mistress Zhayla.
Lady Eirene cared for the injured along with Princess Isolde, Mistress Mirari and Master Harmon. Princess Alis rallied the Oathland lines, but took a nasty wound to her side. Sir Ansel came to princess' rescue, at Valardin's side in battle as he always is. Duke Valkieri at the head of the Rubino forces lead a crushing flank attack upon the shavs. Prince Talen was injured in the battle, but Prince Luca and Lord Ingio cut down the Shavs upon him. As Lady Calypso’s forces buckled, Costas came into the rescue. Count Frederik rallied, keeping the lines from breaking. Lord Gregor commanded the Steethart forces. Then I killed an armored bringer with one blow, bringing the Grayson warriors to cheer.
Then through he mists, a monstrous beast towering over thirty feet emerged. His giant form was rotting, human flesh hung form his maw, his leathers were made of human skin and in his arms was massive war maul. His roar shook the very ground.
“A foe of Legend, at last” Lord Harold said. “You will fight, and together, we will bleed and we will die!” Dagon cried before he hit the beast. The warriors of compact attacked and many of us wounded the beast myself included. Mistress Zhayla gave the last blow with her impressive trident. The creature toppled over and disintegrated, leaving behind his giant skull. The Shavs screamed and started to flee.
“Stand Down.” Duke Dagon cried. “I can’t believe that just fucking happened” Lord Karadoc exclaimed, his blade dripping with giant’s blood. “Hold, Hold.” The commanders called and the Shavs were allowed to flee.
But the battle was from over for the Compact healers. They are always the last to leave.
Princess Reese Grayson
Lady Commander Calypso lead Compact in an attack against the Bringer of Silence Army marching upon Arx. Count Frederik Steelhart found a place at Sorrow’s Point where the archers could reach high ground and rain arrows on the army from above.
The weather was cold and there was a mist that veiled one’s vision. Upon their high ground and into the mists the archers fired as Inquisitor Alistair beseeched the gods with his prayers. Others prayed, speeches were given and Prince Talon spoke of moon pale skin. “Mercy is no virtue. Daring is never a vice” Count Darkwater called from his Black Mountain Ships. “Their End. Our beginning.” Lady Eirene exclaimed. Captain Audric was thinking of tits. The Redrain and Greenmarcher archers lead by Princess Deva and Lord Fiachra with Lord Esteban at their side fired taking down many a shav.
Lord Inigo destroyed a full plated bringer, tearing his arm off with a single blow of his diamond plate blade. Lenosian’s warriors fell behind, but Lady Calypso helped to rally them. Lord Artorius took off a bringer’s leg with with one powerful hit. Lord Harald’s firm and grim courage urged on him men. Lord Valdemar while leading his forces was hit on the back, but rescued by the Grimhall lord. The Duke of Tyde killed shav after shav with his heirloom blade. Southport forces held the center as Calypso gave her orders. Baroness Kima fought shavs, keeping them away from the Commander as Lady Caelis and her marines fell in to give support. Audric with Leta at right held the lines of Shav back. Princess Alis lead a sudden push that drove back the shav lines even as some of the compact warriors were trapped, pressed in by a large pack. I took a blow to my head, but was saved by the actions of my cousin Prince Barric and by Mistress Zhayla.
Lady Eirene cared for the injured along with Princess Isolde, Mistress Mirari and Master Harmon. Princess Alis rallied the Oathland lines, but took a nasty wound to her side. Sir Ansel came to princess' rescue, at Valardin's side in battle as he always is. Duke Valkieri at the head of the Rubino forces lead a crushing flank attack upon the shavs. Prince Talen was injured in the battle, but Prince Luca and Lord Ingio cut down the Shavs upon him. As Lady Calypso’s forces buckled, Costas came into the rescue. Count Frederik rallied, keeping the lines from breaking. Lord Gregor commanded the Steethart forces. Then I killed an armored bringer with one blow, bringing the Grayson warriors to cheer.
Then through he mists, a monstrous beast towering over thirty feet emerged. His giant form was rotting, human flesh hung form his maw, his leathers were made of human skin and in his arms was massive war maul. His roar shook the very ground.
“A foe of Legend, at last” Lord Harold said. “You will fight, and together, we will bleed and we will die!” Dagon cried before he hit the beast. The warriors of compact attacked and many of us wounded the beast myself included. Mistress Zhayla gave the last blow with her impressive trident. The creature toppled over and disintegrated, leaving behind his giant skull. The Shavs screamed and started to flee.
“Stand Down.” Duke Dagon cried. “I can’t believe that just fucking happened” Lord Karadoc exclaimed, his blade dripping with giant’s blood. “Hold, Hold.” The commanders called and the Shavs were allowed to flee.
But the battle was from over for the Compact healers. They are always the last to leave.
Princess Reese Grayson
Written By Clover
March 22, 2017, 2:36 a.m.(2/19/1006 AR)
I got a puppy! Oh, Petrichor's fuzzy friends! Her little nubby tail is so adorable! And she's so playful. Godness, I hope she's worn herself out and I can sleep tonight.
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