Written By Aislin
Jan. 29, 2017, 1:26 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
I've seen many things in the world. Some of them beautiful, some of them terrible, some of them that I'll treasure and some that I'd prefer to forget.
But nothing quite compares to seeing one of the "Old Gods", the great spirits who guard the wilderness.
I'm a southerner, a follower of Vellichor -- even if I fear I'm not always a good one. But my mother is a northerner, and I remember her tales of the spirits of the northlands. How I used to be captivated by them, and imagined them as half-seen things, only glimpsed from the corner of the eye.
The truth was, however, so much stranger and more glorious.
It stood six or seven times the height of a man, more tree than animal, with a voice like the wind through leaves and the creaking of ancient branches. I stood there while the shamans spoke to it, and... somewhere inside, there was that little girl, six or seven, sitting on her mother's lap and listening wide-eyed to the stories.
And in spite of everything I've learned, in spirt of all the troubles facing not just the Compact but humanity as a whole, some part of my heart is a little lighter today. Some of the weight is lifted. Because for the first time in a while I truly remember that for all the dark and terrible things out there... there are beautiful, wonderful things as well.
Things worth fighting for.
It's good to remember that.
But nothing quite compares to seeing one of the "Old Gods", the great spirits who guard the wilderness.
I'm a southerner, a follower of Vellichor -- even if I fear I'm not always a good one. But my mother is a northerner, and I remember her tales of the spirits of the northlands. How I used to be captivated by them, and imagined them as half-seen things, only glimpsed from the corner of the eye.
The truth was, however, so much stranger and more glorious.
It stood six or seven times the height of a man, more tree than animal, with a voice like the wind through leaves and the creaking of ancient branches. I stood there while the shamans spoke to it, and... somewhere inside, there was that little girl, six or seven, sitting on her mother's lap and listening wide-eyed to the stories.
And in spite of everything I've learned, in spirt of all the troubles facing not just the Compact but humanity as a whole, some part of my heart is a little lighter today. Some of the weight is lifted. Because for the first time in a while I truly remember that for all the dark and terrible things out there... there are beautiful, wonderful things as well.
Things worth fighting for.
It's good to remember that.
Written By Agnarr
Jan. 29, 2017, 1:11 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
Dancing lessons for my big arse.
Written By Zhayla
Jan. 29, 2017, 12:55 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Samantha
So far, I've managed to avoid accidentally killing Dumpling.
The Marquessa and Sir -- wait, no, LORD COMMANDER -- Rymarr made a gift of a horse to me, and while they promise me that she's a sweet-tempered, good-natured mare (she's actually really pretty, too; she's called Dumpling, and she's the color of a dumpling in chicken soup, all gold and white), she's still about 10000 feet tall and 20000 pounds heavy. Samantha said it was a gift in recognition of well I did in the melee, and Rymarr thinks I should learn to ride, so that I can keep guarding the Marquessa even when she leaves the city. So I will -- eventually.
Right now, I'm still getting used to her. She hasn't stepped on me yet, and I'm doing what Rymarr said and staying in front, where Dumpling can see me. Now that Samantha told me the trick to getting the animals to listen to you -- it's bribing, by the way, she had me introduce myself with sugar -- I'm cautiously hopeful that I won't get trampled.
She also said that I could go with the Deepwood troops to fight the Bringers, and if learning to ride a horse will let me ride that much faster to the front lines, I think it's worth putting up with something that big.
The Marquessa and Sir -- wait, no, LORD COMMANDER -- Rymarr made a gift of a horse to me, and while they promise me that she's a sweet-tempered, good-natured mare (she's actually really pretty, too; she's called Dumpling, and she's the color of a dumpling in chicken soup, all gold and white), she's still about 10000 feet tall and 20000 pounds heavy. Samantha said it was a gift in recognition of well I did in the melee, and Rymarr thinks I should learn to ride, so that I can keep guarding the Marquessa even when she leaves the city. So I will -- eventually.
Right now, I'm still getting used to her. She hasn't stepped on me yet, and I'm doing what Rymarr said and staying in front, where Dumpling can see me. Now that Samantha told me the trick to getting the animals to listen to you -- it's bribing, by the way, she had me introduce myself with sugar -- I'm cautiously hopeful that I won't get trampled.
She also said that I could go with the Deepwood troops to fight the Bringers, and if learning to ride a horse will let me ride that much faster to the front lines, I think it's worth putting up with something that big.
Written By Zhayla
Jan. 29, 2017, 12:49 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Rymarr
Rymarr was made the Lord Commander of the King's Own, and if I didn't know him when he was just the First Captain of the King's Own instead (haha, that's a joke, that's pretty terrifying too) I think I'd be intimidated by that. He looked very serious when he was up there making his vows, and I know he takes them seriously, too, but I am going to share one of his secrets here in this journal where probably no one else will see:
He knows how to smile.
He seems to carry the weight of his responsibilities very solemnly, but I know there's a good man under that stern face, and I couldn't be gladder for him.
He knows how to smile.
He seems to carry the weight of his responsibilities very solemnly, but I know there's a good man under that stern face, and I couldn't be gladder for him.
Written By Anze
Jan. 29, 2017, 12:43 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowan
Blasphemer.
Written By Natalia
Jan. 29, 2017, 12:38 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
The sister I never had. The sister I always wanted. What would I do without her in my times of darkness?
Written By Dominique
Jan. 29, 2017, 12:13 p.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
It has come to my attention with heavy sadness that the House of Wyrmguard has dwindling numbers. My house needs heirs. Unfortunately, this responsibility lies on me. I would not force this responsibility on my sibling or my cousins. I will have to search for suitors soon. It will be out of a sense of duty and responsibility.
Written By Orazio
Jan. 29, 2017, 11:25 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
Our Compact has now reached the middle of Autumn. A time of harvests, of feasts, and of preparing for the long cold of winter. It is not the time in which anyone wishes to fight a war, as this tramples fields before they can be harvested, and steals working men and women away from the farms to boot. I grow concerned for the state of the harvests - which means that the Faith needs to ensure that we have laid in enough supplies to support the inevitable surge in the population of the hungry and the destitute. Not to mention those too wounded by the battles to go back to the plow and the hoe. They and their families will require support. The Knights of Solace will be traveling to the battlefields, to protect the wounded, and escort the refugees away from harm. Some of the Crownlands hospices have been nearly built. These can shelter at least the most vulnerable as they make their way to safer havens. It would be unwise to direct them all - or even a majority - to Arx; the Faith shall put out calls to the Seraphs in towns, cities, and villages across the Compact, spread out refugees with pious hosts so that the individual burden on communities is not as great. Those who agree to host their neighbors shall be blessed in all ways by Gild and Limerance. I will have to ask the Mercies to be willing to mobilize as well; not just for battle, but to accompany refugees and help to soothe the illnesses that come with displacement and the contact of populations with one another; it is under such conditions that a small outbreak of disease can become a deadly plague. Donations of food, shelter, and basic supplies will be greatly appreciated, and I will see if some Templars cannot supplement the Knights in conducting these supplies to where they need to go across the Compact. I understand that the House of Grayson is constructing new housing for refugees in their own Ward. Well and good; it will be needed.
Closer to Arx and my own specific duties, I was saddened to hear of the conflict between the Knights of Solace and the Iron Guard. My Knights have been reprimanded for their behavior, and I understand the Lord Commander's guards have been, as well. The Knights of Solace aid the Guard at the Guard's request, and while doing so, they will behave with the dignity and respect expected of the Faithful, or they will answer to me. That said, they are allowed to defend themselves from assault, so do not think them easy targets for harassment. For the good of Arx and the Compact, we stand with the Guard.
The Grand Duchess is missing, and Prince Donrai is dead. I pray that the former is found, the latter receives just judgment under the eyes of the Sentinel, and that his successor embraces the delicate arts of statecraft with the same vigor and dedication with which he embraces the bloody arts of war.
In entirely personal news, I sit before a pile of paperwork that continues to grow larger, no matter how many hours a day I spend working through it. Aside from occasional sojourns for the occasional drink with one of my few remaining friends, it seems to be all I do these days. Although I know that it is my duty, and I do not turn aside from that, I miss the days when I could focus on areas of personal interest, hear cases, have the occasional adventure of my own, rather than simply dispatching others on such things, then hearing their reports. While many shadows encroach, many wonders and miracles are also being revealed; those who have the luxury to experience these things, I pray that you embrace the glory of that, along with the burden.
Our Compact has now reached the middle of Autumn. A time of harvests, of feasts, and of preparing for the long cold of winter. It is not the time in which anyone wishes to fight a war, as this tramples fields before they can be harvested, and steals working men and women away from the farms to boot. I grow concerned for the state of the harvests - which means that the Faith needs to ensure that we have laid in enough supplies to support the inevitable surge in the population of the hungry and the destitute. Not to mention those too wounded by the battles to go back to the plow and the hoe. They and their families will require support. The Knights of Solace will be traveling to the battlefields, to protect the wounded, and escort the refugees away from harm. Some of the Crownlands hospices have been nearly built. These can shelter at least the most vulnerable as they make their way to safer havens. It would be unwise to direct them all - or even a majority - to Arx; the Faith shall put out calls to the Seraphs in towns, cities, and villages across the Compact, spread out refugees with pious hosts so that the individual burden on communities is not as great. Those who agree to host their neighbors shall be blessed in all ways by Gild and Limerance. I will have to ask the Mercies to be willing to mobilize as well; not just for battle, but to accompany refugees and help to soothe the illnesses that come with displacement and the contact of populations with one another; it is under such conditions that a small outbreak of disease can become a deadly plague. Donations of food, shelter, and basic supplies will be greatly appreciated, and I will see if some Templars cannot supplement the Knights in conducting these supplies to where they need to go across the Compact. I understand that the House of Grayson is constructing new housing for refugees in their own Ward. Well and good; it will be needed.
Closer to Arx and my own specific duties, I was saddened to hear of the conflict between the Knights of Solace and the Iron Guard. My Knights have been reprimanded for their behavior, and I understand the Lord Commander's guards have been, as well. The Knights of Solace aid the Guard at the Guard's request, and while doing so, they will behave with the dignity and respect expected of the Faithful, or they will answer to me. That said, they are allowed to defend themselves from assault, so do not think them easy targets for harassment. For the good of Arx and the Compact, we stand with the Guard.
The Grand Duchess is missing, and Prince Donrai is dead. I pray that the former is found, the latter receives just judgment under the eyes of the Sentinel, and that his successor embraces the delicate arts of statecraft with the same vigor and dedication with which he embraces the bloody arts of war.
In entirely personal news, I sit before a pile of paperwork that continues to grow larger, no matter how many hours a day I spend working through it. Aside from occasional sojourns for the occasional drink with one of my few remaining friends, it seems to be all I do these days. Although I know that it is my duty, and I do not turn aside from that, I miss the days when I could focus on areas of personal interest, hear cases, have the occasional adventure of my own, rather than simply dispatching others on such things, then hearing their reports. While many shadows encroach, many wonders and miracles are also being revealed; those who have the luxury to experience these things, I pray that you embrace the glory of that, along with the burden.
Written By Isolde
Jan. 29, 2017, 11:13 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
There are good people left in the city. I hold them close to my heart. I cannot lose anyone else, and all of my strength will go to their protection. It's what she would want of me, wherever she is.
Written By Eirene
Jan. 29, 2017, 11:11 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
While my countrymen (if you can call the Lyscene a 'country') were feasting and showing off their fine silks, I had my hands covered in blood and went to work keeping a young man from dying. Probably the best looking one I've had on a table (literal dining table) in a long time. Also got a fascinating glimpse into internal Thraxian politics.
I'm honored that the other Compact members trust me with their kin. I'm pleased my skills are useful and save lives. Just know I'm going to be sewing up a lot more people in the coming days so some hands-on practice is useful. He'll have some manful scars but mine are always a lovely silver-white memory of the time you -almost- died.
So in short - It was Saturday.
I'm honored that the other Compact members trust me with their kin. I'm pleased my skills are useful and save lives. Just know I'm going to be sewing up a lot more people in the coming days so some hands-on practice is useful. He'll have some manful scars but mine are always a lovely silver-white memory of the time you -almost- died.
So in short - It was Saturday.
Written By Ida
Jan. 29, 2017, 11:11 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
There are times that I can't forge something the way I have it pictured in my head for damn near anything. Then there are those rare times when, in one way or another, what comes from the fire is something I swear Jayus touched for me - which I hope does not sound dreadfully conceited. Like, every great once in awhile I make something that I'm so ridiculously proud of, I'm nearly giddy; it's an amazing feeling. I managed that with a spear this week and, oaths and steel, it may be my favorite weapon to come from my hands.
Written By Cicero
Jan. 29, 2017, 11:02 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
A place to relax,
save for all of the yelling.
Next time move closer.
save for all of the yelling.
Next time move closer.
Written By Alistair
Jan. 29, 2017, 10:54 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
I have not had time to pen my thoughts on the lazy Champion who I roped into guarding the envoys during their visit.
I can at least say none of the Compact's guests died, so at least he accomplished the fundamental purpose of a guard.
Despite that, he is the worst bodyguard I have ever seen or worked alongside.
At least he put his heart into it.
I can at least say none of the Compact's guests died, so at least he accomplished the fundamental purpose of a guard.
Despite that, he is the worst bodyguard I have ever seen or worked alongside.
At least he put his heart into it.
Written By Ida
Jan. 29, 2017, 10:53 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
After what is surely nearly a year of 'I should's, I finally got myself out and ordered a decent set of leather armor. Master Torian Culler's shop is closer than I thought and I was very impressed with the quality his staff was able to produce. I'm even fond of the colors I chose. Hmm? Oh, I know. One would think a crafter might do quite well at that sort of thing. Sometimes I am. For myself? Rarely. In any case, surely the set will serve me far better than the barely-there common leather I've been getting by on. Or so I shall hope.
Written By Cicero
Jan. 29, 2017, 10:49 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Spar. She converses.
Humbling experience.
Each bruise a lesson.
Humbling experience.
Each bruise a lesson.
Written By Cicero
Jan. 29, 2017, 10:45 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
The interruptions.
Terrible interruptions.
...Wait. Is that a knock?
Terrible interruptions.
...Wait. Is that a knock?
Written By Verity
Jan. 29, 2017, 9:19 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Holt
Always thought I was hard to lay a finger on, come fighting, but he's two of me and I didn't smack him once. Next time the rule of the ring will be the taller one downs a full flask of spirits before we get to swinging... then I might have a chance.
Written By Leola
Jan. 29, 2017, 9:15 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Apparently I can make the Thrax Highlord laugh. All I have to do is say something relentlessly bloody and practical.
I don't know whether to be proud or not.
I don't know whether to be proud or not.
Written By Jaenelle
Jan. 29, 2017, 9:06 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
My siblings are my calm in the storm. They are strong, they are sturdy, and most of all they are constant. I am not sure I could be as I am without Leona and Valerius. We are fiercely protective of one another, and though we each have different places and have taken different paths, that will never change.
Written By Julea
Jan. 29, 2017, 8:39 a.m.(10/16/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerius
A Charming Thrax.
That sounds something like an oxymoron. But bloody abyss, that body of his. His way too sweet words, those come-hither-and-drop-your-skirts eyes, those muscles, what are they even called? My shop assistant tells me they're pectorals, well he can move them, individually. In case you can't visualise it, I shall draw them here for you:
[What follows is a stick drawing with oversized pectoral muscles that probably look more like breasts than pects. There's two, the first showing the left one slightly raised, and the second the right. It's not exactly a masterpiece but it probably gets the point across]
If only his ego wasn't so large, I fear that it is much more than this smith can manage, and it is best left to inveigle Princesses who are much more capable of handling him.
That sounds something like an oxymoron. But bloody abyss, that body of his. His way too sweet words, those come-hither-and-drop-your-skirts eyes, those muscles, what are they even called? My shop assistant tells me they're pectorals, well he can move them, individually. In case you can't visualise it, I shall draw them here for you:
[What follows is a stick drawing with oversized pectoral muscles that probably look more like breasts than pects. There's two, the first showing the left one slightly raised, and the second the right. It's not exactly a masterpiece but it probably gets the point across]
If only his ego wasn't so large, I fear that it is much more than this smith can manage, and it is best left to inveigle Princesses who are much more capable of handling him.
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