Written By Merek
Feb. 8, 2017, 2:03 p.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
Dear Reader,
I would first like to thank you for taking the time to read this scroll, which has been titled, The Silent Reflections. Now some might ask, what are those? Not all know about them, even if such is common knowledge amongst most people in Arvum. Well, the first thing is, these are men and women who have broken their oaths that now serve in the Shrine of the Thirteenth, such as people who were Scholars and viewed the Black Reflections of others, or giving out knowledge that was not sanctioned to do so, such as private treatsies and affairs, being used in ways that they were not meant, against the people. For this, their writing hand and their tongues have been removed. It is sad, but it is the truth of the matter, and these people must live their whole life out as this.
Here, I write about what I learned while serving alongside with the Silent Reflections as part of the Scholars. First, the Silent Reflections are still men, and have personalities, though most have been subdued by what has happened to them. I went as far as to ask of people that knew them to hear of some of their crimes. There was one in particular who sought to use knowledge he found to pull political maneuvers and abuse his position as a Godsworn to sway favor. He had come to learn the error of his ways, but never again will he be able to make the same mistake. Their services are simple, mundane, but... More difficult. One learns that there are quite a few means to end up amongst their ranks. The importance of the oaths are paramount, because the duties are sacred, not meant to be abused for the means of man. It is in this service, where still allowed to live, that I've learned these people must learn the weight of what they had done. And quite a few do hold resentment, but some have come to terms with what they have done.
I would then state that the most important thing I've learned is the heavy price associated to oaths like they once served. And I believe that oath never truly went away. These men are still bound to that oath, but their new duties, are to find a way to repent, that the Gods and men might find them acceptable in spirit once more, for the lives we live upon the world are finite, but much more important is that we take into due consideration the importance of what we do with it, for it determines what will come after.
I would first like to thank you for taking the time to read this scroll, which has been titled, The Silent Reflections. Now some might ask, what are those? Not all know about them, even if such is common knowledge amongst most people in Arvum. Well, the first thing is, these are men and women who have broken their oaths that now serve in the Shrine of the Thirteenth, such as people who were Scholars and viewed the Black Reflections of others, or giving out knowledge that was not sanctioned to do so, such as private treatsies and affairs, being used in ways that they were not meant, against the people. For this, their writing hand and their tongues have been removed. It is sad, but it is the truth of the matter, and these people must live their whole life out as this.
Here, I write about what I learned while serving alongside with the Silent Reflections as part of the Scholars. First, the Silent Reflections are still men, and have personalities, though most have been subdued by what has happened to them. I went as far as to ask of people that knew them to hear of some of their crimes. There was one in particular who sought to use knowledge he found to pull political maneuvers and abuse his position as a Godsworn to sway favor. He had come to learn the error of his ways, but never again will he be able to make the same mistake. Their services are simple, mundane, but... More difficult. One learns that there are quite a few means to end up amongst their ranks. The importance of the oaths are paramount, because the duties are sacred, not meant to be abused for the means of man. It is in this service, where still allowed to live, that I've learned these people must learn the weight of what they had done. And quite a few do hold resentment, but some have come to terms with what they have done.
I would then state that the most important thing I've learned is the heavy price associated to oaths like they once served. And I believe that oath never truly went away. These men are still bound to that oath, but their new duties, are to find a way to repent, that the Gods and men might find them acceptable in spirit once more, for the lives we live upon the world are finite, but much more important is that we take into due consideration the importance of what we do with it, for it determines what will come after.
Written By Harald
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:41 p.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
Survival is no fit goal in war.
Survival is merely the means to the true goal of victory, of dominance. At times, survival is not even needed for that, when one is wise enough, for such is the nature of sacrifice.
It is a fool who aims for a goal that does not ensure final triumph, or marches without knowing how to grasp true victory.
So long as life endures, hope remains, and hope is a virtue.
But domination is a strategy.
Do not hope for mere survival, when one can grasp further, toward triumph.
Survival is merely the means to the true goal of victory, of dominance. At times, survival is not even needed for that, when one is wise enough, for such is the nature of sacrifice.
It is a fool who aims for a goal that does not ensure final triumph, or marches without knowing how to grasp true victory.
So long as life endures, hope remains, and hope is a virtue.
But domination is a strategy.
Do not hope for mere survival, when one can grasp further, toward triumph.
Written By Rowan
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:24 p.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Aislin
We started at far sides of the same field. Dispute lead to debate, debate to discourse, discourse to discussion. There is more common ground between us than I'd have expected from the start, and though the paths we're taking are decidedly different, we seek the same place. For as long as our paths run close, I'll happily enjoy her company and insights.
Written By Eirene
Feb. 8, 2017, 12:21 p.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
I made up with a friend in the temple of Lagoma - seeing as she's the one who we honor for change and growth for the better, it seemed oddly appropriate.
In other news, I have friends and know when to say I'm sorry for being a dick. Even if I should have said it far sooner than I did.
In other news, I have friends and know when to say I'm sorry for being a dick. Even if I should have said it far sooner than I did.
Written By Marius
Feb. 8, 2017, 11:54 a.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
I've been back in Arx for just over a month, and had forgotten just how different it is from the Greenwood. Noise, noise, noise, everywhere noise! It's almost inescapable, even within the bounds of the Lodge. It's clattering, almost shattering in its intensity and pervasiveness. It threatens to overwhelm the heart...
...and, inexplicably, fills that same heart with energy. A different kind of energy than the Greenwood, mind, but no less vivifying.
The day-to-day matter of the family have been ably seen to by Uncle Muiryn, who proves himself more loyal a man than anyone has a right to expect. My family has welcomed Simone and me back to the city with warmth and a genuine sense of gladness. By the old ways, I have missed them all.
It's funny: I'd almost forgotten just how... different we Greenmarchers are from our fellow Valardin vassals. You lose that perspective when all around you are people like you - wildly passionate and never shy from expressing it - but I overheard someone remark they wished they'd brought us in years before my father swore. That's a compliment, in my mind.
So: I begin the task of reacquainting myself with Arx and her peoples, and forming new relationships. Something is happening out there in the wilds, to the land and the Abandoned. We will need all the strength we can muster to combat it; I know this to my very bones.
...and, inexplicably, fills that same heart with energy. A different kind of energy than the Greenwood, mind, but no less vivifying.
The day-to-day matter of the family have been ably seen to by Uncle Muiryn, who proves himself more loyal a man than anyone has a right to expect. My family has welcomed Simone and me back to the city with warmth and a genuine sense of gladness. By the old ways, I have missed them all.
It's funny: I'd almost forgotten just how... different we Greenmarchers are from our fellow Valardin vassals. You lose that perspective when all around you are people like you - wildly passionate and never shy from expressing it - but I overheard someone remark they wished they'd brought us in years before my father swore. That's a compliment, in my mind.
So: I begin the task of reacquainting myself with Arx and her peoples, and forming new relationships. Something is happening out there in the wilds, to the land and the Abandoned. We will need all the strength we can muster to combat it; I know this to my very bones.
Written By Merek
Feb. 8, 2017, 10:19 a.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
I don't know what to write about Meeka. She is the most curious woman I've ever met. She is not like most. She is quiet and reserved but often has a kind personality. She is from Lenosia, and born to parents who came there from Gemecitta. She has decided to pledge her sword to me, and has said she will fight for me. While I'm not a noble, I don't mind it much. I put in to have her geared up. She has stated it is a sense of duty which she owes to House Black. She thinks I come from a family that used to be called a noble house. I'm not sure what to think about that. But it matters quite little as I like being the simple smith I am.
Written By Silas
Feb. 8, 2017, 9:06 a.m.(11/18/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Ainsley
He was my superior not too long ago, and now I'm his boss. In part because of his recommendation.
So I repay his kindness with mountains of paperwork and always stealing victory right from under him when we spar at the Training Center. That is, if he's not using that shiny alaricite blade of his. Then it hurts. It hurts -a lot-.
There is a strategy behind my treatment of him, though, and I suspect he might know what it is...
So I repay his kindness with mountains of paperwork and always stealing victory right from under him when we spar at the Training Center. That is, if he's not using that shiny alaricite blade of his. Then it hurts. It hurts -a lot-.
There is a strategy behind my treatment of him, though, and I suspect he might know what it is...
Written By Felix
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:49 a.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Tomwell
He really knows how to play that violin of his. Looks hard to learn. Seems like a fun sort, though, Lord Leary.
Written By Felix
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:47 a.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Nigel
Seems like a good sort. He's here to help with the refugees, so that's good news. Seems like he's taking to the city alright.
Written By Calypso
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:20 a.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Max
I've gone through the whole spectrum of emotions and opinions on Count Darkwater. It started with suspicion and a rather serious dislike for his demeanor. That damn stormcrow didn't help his case much either. then it turned to a suspicious respect for his ability to run an economic organization. Surely there must be something to someone who can put that kind of hard work in to seeing a goal meet. And recently it has turned in to a suspicious trust. So long as our goals continue to align, I imagine there is not much that could stop us from accomplishing them.
I might even enjoy his company from time to time. Strange times we live in.
I might even enjoy his company from time to time. Strange times we live in.
Written By Caelis
Feb. 8, 2017, 1:01 a.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Audric
It was so wonderful to see my old friend! I am surprised to see him grown and a man, but then, I'm no longer a slip of a girl myself. Still just as annoying as I remember. Surely it does not take ten messengers to ask someone over to visit. Those poor runners.
Written By Caelis
Feb. 8, 2017, 12:58 a.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
The return to Arx.
There are so many walls. That's always unsettled me-the sky feels so small in a city. I tried to make my arrival to the city as quiet as possible. It will be good to see family again. I managed to stop by the training yard and while I did not get in any training, it was most amusing to witness the brawl at hand. A visit with an old friend made me feel much more welcome in the city, despite his abuse of messengers. I may box his ears yet, time will tell.
There are so many walls. That's always unsettled me-the sky feels so small in a city. I tried to make my arrival to the city as quiet as possible. It will be good to see family again. I managed to stop by the training yard and while I did not get in any training, it was most amusing to witness the brawl at hand. A visit with an old friend made me feel much more welcome in the city, despite his abuse of messengers. I may box his ears yet, time will tell.
Written By Freja
Feb. 7, 2017, 11:12 p.m.(11/17/1005 AR)
I have no doubt of the winter and cold in my being, but it is the sun I feel I am lacking. I have been told that mine is a cold fire, cutting deep and blackening the flesh all the same.
Written By Luis
Feb. 7, 2017, 9:56 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
All of the pelts in the world aren't going to save us now. I should know; I have many pelts.
Think I may stroll by the ole shrines for a couple of hours tomorrow and take some inventory. I spent today listening to rumors and it has done me no good.
Think I may stroll by the ole shrines for a couple of hours tomorrow and take some inventory. I spent today listening to rumors and it has done me no good.
Written By Ida
Feb. 7, 2017, 9:18 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Dominique
The Marquessa Dominique Wyrmguard had commissioned me to make her a sword some time ago, but our paths didn't manage to cross after that much. That changed this evening when I happened to see her when I went to the training center. She has some stunning new armor and we ended up sparring so she could break it in a bit. I got to fight the sword I made! And perhaps I should stop getting excited about the challenge of fighting sword-wielders with my fists, but there's just something great about trying to dodge swipes of steel. The Marquessa is quite skilled and fast, oaths and steel! Overall, it was a great bout and I am glad our paths met once again - with plans made to have them do so more!
Written By Anze
Feb. 7, 2017, 7:43 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
Ghosts.
I've been saying it and saying it, no one believes me, but the sky just turns dark? It's ghosts, believe you me.
I've been saying it and saying it, no one believes me, but the sky just turns dark? It's ghosts, believe you me.
Written By Kima
Feb. 7, 2017, 7:15 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
I took a nap, and when I awoke, it was dark.
I thought I had vastly overslept, but apparently there has been some sort of confusion between the day and night of the sort one finds in fables for children.
We live in interesting times, of that, no one can doubt.
I thought I had vastly overslept, but apparently there has been some sort of confusion between the day and night of the sort one finds in fables for children.
We live in interesting times, of that, no one can doubt.
Written By Orathy
Feb. 7, 2017, 7:09 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
*About How the Sky Went Dark and Night took hold of the Day*
As the screams descended upon the city and the noise of panic arose, I was within the Beauty In You. I felt... calm. I felt at ease, even with the panic of other citizens mounting, I merely closed the door to ensure that none would harm the woman I was with. She works at the shop, she was upset, but there I was, calm. I really wanted to be out in the darkness. I felt some urge to be out there with my brothers and sisters, to absorb the fear that others bellowed out. A strange thing, to long for the shadows and hope it would happen again. I'm ready for it.
As the screams descended upon the city and the noise of panic arose, I was within the Beauty In You. I felt... calm. I felt at ease, even with the panic of other citizens mounting, I merely closed the door to ensure that none would harm the woman I was with. She works at the shop, she was upset, but there I was, calm. I really wanted to be out in the darkness. I felt some urge to be out there with my brothers and sisters, to absorb the fear that others bellowed out. A strange thing, to long for the shadows and hope it would happen again. I'm ready for it.
Written By Jasher
Feb. 7, 2017, 7:03 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerius
There's more to my cousin than meets the eye. Much makes sense now.
Written By Anabelle
Feb. 7, 2017, 6:26 p.m.(11/16/1005 AR)
I had a talk today with a Scholar. I don't know what to say. I don't know what to think. I don't know what to do.
I feel like I'm on the cusp of another world, and I stand at this precipice not knowing what lies below. Do I step forward and put myself in the hands of the Gods, Gods who might very well have left us for another place, another time? Or do I step back and close the door, never to look at it again for fear of having to always look back?
Rymarr, she said that you sent her. I don't know if I can trust that, but I don't have any reason to not believe it. To write some of this in a message though, it could be worse for me to write it down. It might be best to just forget about it all, forget about the conversation, move forward with something else - something safer. Will I regret that choice if I make it? Will I regret no matter what I choose?
Why did I stop to talk to you? Why didn't I just continue on and not look back? Am I losing my mind or will I if I keep looking through this door? Did she lose her mind? I need to know. I need to understand. I won't believe it unless I see it, even if she says its true - I need to see it before I'll trust it.
I feel like I'm on the cusp of another world, and I stand at this precipice not knowing what lies below. Do I step forward and put myself in the hands of the Gods, Gods who might very well have left us for another place, another time? Or do I step back and close the door, never to look at it again for fear of having to always look back?
Rymarr, she said that you sent her. I don't know if I can trust that, but I don't have any reason to not believe it. To write some of this in a message though, it could be worse for me to write it down. It might be best to just forget about it all, forget about the conversation, move forward with something else - something safer. Will I regret that choice if I make it? Will I regret no matter what I choose?
Why did I stop to talk to you? Why didn't I just continue on and not look back? Am I losing my mind or will I if I keep looking through this door? Did she lose her mind? I need to know. I need to understand. I won't believe it unless I see it, even if she says its true - I need to see it before I'll trust it.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.