Written By Viktarkim
Oct. 18, 2016, 1:49 p.m.(11/16/1004 AR)
I'm not much for putting down these things but in the past weeks, I have won both a brawling contest hosted at House Redrain, and now the Archery Tournament that won me an amazing recurve bow made of rubicund. I've secured a place as soldier, archer, and scout for House Grayson, and I have made friends and allies, and teachers. For my first month in this city I fare very well. Better than I could have hoped, yet there is still much to do to get prepared to best serve this House.
Written By Calypso
Oct. 18, 2016, 10:59 a.m.(11/16/1004 AR)
It has taken a few weeks of being back in the great city of the Compact to get my barrings. And with out my brother's direct guidance on who I should speak to and where I should set my focus I've had to do a bit of that on my own. But there are others here I can lean on. Kima and Eos have both been incredibly useful to me. She with her social finesse and he with his hardened solider' mind. Yes I expect to be spending a great deal more time with Eos.
We have a plan. Well, the inkling of a plan at least. I intend to reach out to every military commander in the Compact. Get to know them and the strengths and weaknesses they possess. I can't say why I feel this way so strongly but I think the time of infighting and blood feuds will soon be behind us. I would be a fool to think it will come to an end entirely, but I have an inkling that there is something more on the horizon. And when that something more rears its head I will not be caught unprepared.
We have a plan. Well, the inkling of a plan at least. I intend to reach out to every military commander in the Compact. Get to know them and the strengths and weaknesses they possess. I can't say why I feel this way so strongly but I think the time of infighting and blood feuds will soon be behind us. I would be a fool to think it will come to an end entirely, but I have an inkling that there is something more on the horizon. And when that something more rears its head I will not be caught unprepared.
Written By Silas
Oct. 18, 2016, 7:46 a.m.(11/15/1004 AR)
Prince Edain has sent me Sir Roland the Great Horned Owl to dispense of the rodent menace in my shop.
I hope my apprentices heed my command to stop poking at him.
I hope my apprentices heed my command to stop poking at him.
Written By Selene
Oct. 18, 2016, 5:44 a.m.(11/15/1004 AR)
About Rook Grayward: He truly is very helpful, and a nice target for flirtatious banter. No. Seriously. He takes great interest in the welfare of Whisper House and was the one who made arrangements for armed escorts, to be available when needed to all members of our House. I enjoy my interactions with him, and heed his counsel occasionally.
Written By Natalia
Oct. 18, 2016, 4:03 a.m.(11/15/1004 AR)
It has been a slower day on my social calendar, but I do not find myself fretting. I have managed to secure the dresses for myself, Lou and Dawn for Mason's event. I feel scandalous just looking at it, but it shall be wonderful. I worry that Lou might stab me over hers.
I have found the bedroom is finally mine. It took only a little smile here and a pout there, but now the largest bedroom in the Mansion is solely mine. I know this is not a battlefield victory, but it is a victory that I deserve nonetheless. Also, my wardrobe has been completed and life is most wonderful.
Today's lesson was that men will talk about swords and war the moment two or more are gathered. Not that the Grayson women are any better. We all know how to fight in our own ways. I am filling out my social calendar and it is just glorious. Every day is still filled with new people that I have met. New stories to hear. I met one of the clothiers today as well. Oh but a life is charmed when it is mine.
I have found the bedroom is finally mine. It took only a little smile here and a pout there, but now the largest bedroom in the Mansion is solely mine. I know this is not a battlefield victory, but it is a victory that I deserve nonetheless. Also, my wardrobe has been completed and life is most wonderful.
Today's lesson was that men will talk about swords and war the moment two or more are gathered. Not that the Grayson women are any better. We all know how to fight in our own ways. I am filling out my social calendar and it is just glorious. Every day is still filled with new people that I have met. New stories to hear. I met one of the clothiers today as well. Oh but a life is charmed when it is mine.
Written By Lou
Oct. 18, 2016, 2:52 a.m.(11/15/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
My cousin wishes to have me for tea.
Tea. Not so bad as being dragged to salon, but really?
I countered with inviting her to my archery practice. She agreed. I still feel it may be a trap.
And she sent me an outfit. Someone must have told her what I wore to Mason's story night. Except this one... has kittens on it.
Don't tell anyone. I might like it.
Tea. Not so bad as being dragged to salon, but really?
I countered with inviting her to my archery practice. She agreed. I still feel it may be a trap.
And she sent me an outfit. Someone must have told her what I wore to Mason's story night. Except this one... has kittens on it.
Don't tell anyone. I might like it.
Written By Natalia
Oct. 17, 2016, 4:07 a.m.(11/12/1004 AR)
I fear the King's Own may truly plot my death if I keep gossiping in front of them. My visit with Alaric was the same as always. I prattled on about the clothing choices of the masses and he said nothing. I take this as his desire to hear more. So, I have been catching him up on the gossip and events. I am making sure to exclude those about him though. We need not upset my King.
I have also taken to reading to him. This tale is a wonderful one that is sure to be filled by Grayson designs. It is one of intrigue and sword fights. I am sure that he smiled, though no one else believes that. It was probably my imagination, but it makes me feel better, so that is what matters.
Later I found myself at The Ambassador. It is lovely to come upon people. I asked that Lady Cara met me. She is a wonderful woman, but truly needs to gain confidence. I will give that to her in aces. There was a lively discussion with Lady Daphne and the Wandering Prince about passions and duty. In all, as I lay my head down (after wrestling the ink back from Avenger), I think it was a good day.
Perhaps Arx will allow more than I thought to transpire.
I have also taken to reading to him. This tale is a wonderful one that is sure to be filled by Grayson designs. It is one of intrigue and sword fights. I am sure that he smiled, though no one else believes that. It was probably my imagination, but it makes me feel better, so that is what matters.
Later I found myself at The Ambassador. It is lovely to come upon people. I asked that Lady Cara met me. She is a wonderful woman, but truly needs to gain confidence. I will give that to her in aces. There was a lively discussion with Lady Daphne and the Wandering Prince about passions and duty. In all, as I lay my head down (after wrestling the ink back from Avenger), I think it was a good day.
Perhaps Arx will allow more than I thought to transpire.
Written By Aislin
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:57 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
Even though I've done very little yet towards formally creating the Adventurer's Society, I've been contacted by several people already.
Princess Lou has agreed to help, seeing it as a good way to encourage people in how to adventure responsibly. Gods know that half of the aggression you get from shav tribes that have set up in ruins is due to the explorer attacking first.
Lady Dawn has said she will back such an endeavor.
Lord Salazar has graciously offered to both host and cater meetings of the Society.
It has been suggested that the Archive would like to be involved in the Society, and Archscholar Aldwin has said he'd like to speak to me on the matter.
Lord Pietro seems... 'enthusiastic' seems somehow too mild a word, but his interest is undeniable.
I suspect we will have no trouble finding attendees for the first meeting, once it is scheduled.
Princess Lou has agreed to help, seeing it as a good way to encourage people in how to adventure responsibly. Gods know that half of the aggression you get from shav tribes that have set up in ruins is due to the explorer attacking first.
Lady Dawn has said she will back such an endeavor.
Lord Salazar has graciously offered to both host and cater meetings of the Society.
It has been suggested that the Archive would like to be involved in the Society, and Archscholar Aldwin has said he'd like to speak to me on the matter.
Lord Pietro seems... 'enthusiastic' seems somehow too mild a word, but his interest is undeniable.
I suspect we will have no trouble finding attendees for the first meeting, once it is scheduled.
Written By Joscelin
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:52 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
Ah, the Archery Tournament.
Honestly, that was a lot of fun, I was surprised how -nothing- seemed to go wrong. I kept fussing over points and people feeling welcome.
The prize was well-received. I was very proud of that. I'm hoping others will attend the next time, and I'll make a note to have the previous winner judge instead of compete. I need to remember to tell the Shav that, so it's not a surprise, but as far as I can tell, he's an honorable man. I doubt he would be bothered by it.
Everyone who competed, they all did so well, some braver than others in their shot and their experience, others bold for doing something outside of their norm.
I was so pleased, I still am; to host an event rather than be an observer, for once, was a true honor.
I can't wait to do it again.
Honestly, that was a lot of fun, I was surprised how -nothing- seemed to go wrong. I kept fussing over points and people feeling welcome.
The prize was well-received. I was very proud of that. I'm hoping others will attend the next time, and I'll make a note to have the previous winner judge instead of compete. I need to remember to tell the Shav that, so it's not a surprise, but as far as I can tell, he's an honorable man. I doubt he would be bothered by it.
Everyone who competed, they all did so well, some braver than others in their shot and their experience, others bold for doing something outside of their norm.
I was so pleased, I still am; to host an event rather than be an observer, for once, was a true honor.
I can't wait to do it again.
Written By Darren
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:50 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
The storytelling event went off without a hitch and was far more successful than I thought it would be. Lady Dawn was my most regal co-host, and we were entertained by storytellers from across all the different Houses.
In the end, of course, there could only be one winner. I'm proud to say one of my own, Lady Lydia Nightgold, took home the prize of the drinking horn. Her story of Luukas and the Land of Only Stars was exceptionally clever, and she deserves the win for the night.
Honorable mention, of course, went to Blacktongue the Harlequin. Lady Dawn and I both agreed that his story was worthy of a secondary prize, and she gifted him with a well deserved purse of silver.
To the others that attended - the stories and song were exciting and interesting. I hope we'll have another strong showing, should we do a similar competition in the future.
In the end, of course, there could only be one winner. I'm proud to say one of my own, Lady Lydia Nightgold, took home the prize of the drinking horn. Her story of Luukas and the Land of Only Stars was exceptionally clever, and she deserves the win for the night.
Honorable mention, of course, went to Blacktongue the Harlequin. Lady Dawn and I both agreed that his story was worthy of a secondary prize, and she gifted him with a well deserved purse of silver.
To the others that attended - the stories and song were exciting and interesting. I hope we'll have another strong showing, should we do a similar competition in the future.
Written By Esera
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:48 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Blacktongue
He was my mother's jester, but before that he was her cupbearer -- her protector, in a world of peril and poison. He had a name, once. Something real. Now he has a lie. Blacktongue the Harlequin, you can bury your name, but you cannot bury the man you were. I will not forget your service to my mother. I pray I may earn your service, in kind. Your protection from peril, if not from poison.
Written By Joscelin
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:48 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
I can't remember the last time I sang in public. I don't do it often these days, what with Ianthe grown up and most of my family either gone or away.
The one I sang tonight in front of a bunch of -strangers- however, was a favorite of my little sister. She likes tales of women with swords, as I recall. I liked seeing her all grinning over it. I have to remember that I have a voice and it's for more than just swearing at people.
But tonight, my song was for Ianthe.
The one I sang tonight in front of a bunch of -strangers- however, was a favorite of my little sister. She likes tales of women with swords, as I recall. I liked seeing her all grinning over it. I have to remember that I have a voice and it's for more than just swearing at people.
But tonight, my song was for Ianthe.
Written By Saedrus
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:37 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
The talented bards of Axr at the Triumph Plaza made this evening's event a true delight to attend. Everyone who performed made a wonderful effort, adding to each tale with their own flair and vibrant style (though admittedly, I had not gathered drunk to be a 'style' as it was in one case.) and I was lucky enough to have a seat among three charming women throughout the duration. My praise goes to the hosts of the event as well, Lady Dawn and Prince Darren, since it would not have come about without them. And the pastries provided by the Marquessa Samantha were an absolute treat.
Written By Salazar
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:28 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
The wine business is good and has plenty of room for expansion. What next, they ask me -- whiskey from Redrain to sell in the Lyceum? Gilden Gold cider, to be hawked north? The possibilities are endless, and I find myself profiting quite well from this. I took advantage of a story-telling contest to make famous (or perhaps infamous, there's the idea that there's no such thing as bad publicity) the jingle that should keep Nilanzan red on the tongues of everyone, great and small:
"Nilanzan red! Oh sweet Nilanzan red,
It goes with all meats and all breads.
Blameless, we are, on sweet Nilanzan red,
What we do or say, blame on wine instead!"
Of course, there's the Mercier fellow who's been yelling me down about the quality of Nilanzan wines and his wines. There's the popular refrain that referenced; that I do not know what goes into the wines of my hearth and home, and he asks: 'Has this pirate prince ever spent a day in the fields?' Of course, to that, I answer: No, my good man, I don't spend time in the fields, picking the grapes from the grape trees like you do, my dear friend - they're grown on vines against the cliff-side vineyards, where I am from. Though it amuses me so, this wine business. Perhaps I should, indeed, leave the wine-peddling to the common man, sleeves rolled up and bare feet soaked in grape juice. But I must say, it brings me a sort of fine feeling, a sense of purpose. Lazarus Mercier's brother is a man I need to find.
Oh! I just remembered. Either Silas Mercier or Kima Saik -- or even perhaps my cousin, the Sword of Argento will do, seeing as she's arrived in town... I must improve my swordsmanship and my footwork. The scion of Argento can't be fenced to oblivion by any halfwit with a length of steel and the compunction to use it.
"Nilanzan red! Oh sweet Nilanzan red,
It goes with all meats and all breads.
Blameless, we are, on sweet Nilanzan red,
What we do or say, blame on wine instead!"
Of course, there's the Mercier fellow who's been yelling me down about the quality of Nilanzan wines and his wines. There's the popular refrain that referenced; that I do not know what goes into the wines of my hearth and home, and he asks: 'Has this pirate prince ever spent a day in the fields?' Of course, to that, I answer: No, my good man, I don't spend time in the fields, picking the grapes from the grape trees like you do, my dear friend - they're grown on vines against the cliff-side vineyards, where I am from. Though it amuses me so, this wine business. Perhaps I should, indeed, leave the wine-peddling to the common man, sleeves rolled up and bare feet soaked in grape juice. But I must say, it brings me a sort of fine feeling, a sense of purpose. Lazarus Mercier's brother is a man I need to find.
Oh! I just remembered. Either Silas Mercier or Kima Saik -- or even perhaps my cousin, the Sword of Argento will do, seeing as she's arrived in town... I must improve my swordsmanship and my footwork. The scion of Argento can't be fenced to oblivion by any halfwit with a length of steel and the compunction to use it.
Written By Freja
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:25 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
I miss the snows. I miss the wind whipping through forgotten vales, through rocky crags that time has forgotten the names we gave them when we were once sundered, separated by our own agendas and pride. Even in the warmth of the Southern sun I feel their chill in my bones and how I ache to feel its lash on my cheeks again. I miss the burn of ice on my fingertips even through layers of leather and furs, the song it sings when it crashes down from mountaintops to topple what it wishes at wild whims. I miss the lands steeped in archaic legends, predating time as we know it and carried on in the veins of us now.
Now, I miss them more than ever. They are calling, but I cannot answer.
Now, I miss them more than ever. They are calling, but I cannot answer.
Written By Aislin
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:23 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
I seem to keep running into Lord Salazar almost everywhere I go. I go to the Ambassador, and there's Lord Salazar. I go to walk atop the walls, and there's Lord Salazar. I go to the market, and there's Lord Salazar in the crowds.
Perhaps it's merely that he ends up almost everywhere in the city?
Still, the sight of him always brightens the day. He seems to approach life as if it weren't actually all that serious a matter; any problem is surmountable, any obstacle is only a temporary one. And for a little while, I can convince myself the same thing is true.
It's refreshing, really.
Perhaps it's merely that he ends up almost everywhere in the city?
Still, the sight of him always brightens the day. He seems to approach life as if it weren't actually all that serious a matter; any problem is surmountable, any obstacle is only a temporary one. And for a little while, I can convince myself the same thing is true.
It's refreshing, really.
Written By Nadia
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:16 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
I saw the wrinkles in his suntanned brow.
He shouldered burdens then; I see them now
I heard the cries of the people who in vain
Have shed tears two hundred years like rain.
I heard the drums, the time had drawn near
Your spirit drawn the beats they ring so clear
Song like prayers chanted through the night
Pleading for us to come, help end their plight
I've heard your cries and now stood at your side
We joined their prayers with both arms open wide
United spirits set to sing until dawn
When in the fire's flames a golden fawn.
Remembering a smile crossed my face
When we were one with Mother Nature's grace
The mountains and valleys flowing with waters clear
Flow sadly now, a bleak future we fear.
The weightless feathers that adorned his head
A grim, great truth weighed me down instead.
Now breathing deep he smelled winds of change
While here in the city my people rearranged.
He shouldered burdens then; I see them now
I heard the cries of the people who in vain
Have shed tears two hundred years like rain.
I heard the drums, the time had drawn near
Your spirit drawn the beats they ring so clear
Song like prayers chanted through the night
Pleading for us to come, help end their plight
I've heard your cries and now stood at your side
We joined their prayers with both arms open wide
United spirits set to sing until dawn
When in the fire's flames a golden fawn.
Remembering a smile crossed my face
When we were one with Mother Nature's grace
The mountains and valleys flowing with waters clear
Flow sadly now, a bleak future we fear.
The weightless feathers that adorned his head
A grim, great truth weighed me down instead.
Now breathing deep he smelled winds of change
While here in the city my people rearranged.
Written By Sophie
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:11 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
It was a grand evening to be regaled by such inspired tales. I am starting to wonder, however, if it is possible for Lord Salazar Argento to go anywhere without promoting his wine. Should boisterous determination garner him sales, he surely has earned himself no small amount of coin.
Written By Saedrus
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:09 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
I had the great pleasure of participating in the Golden Arrow Competition this week, hosted by the charming jeweller Mistress Joscelin, Lady Dawn and Master Silas who all served as the judges for the event. And I must say they did a fabulous job of putting the competition together, not a single fault throughout the entire affair.
It has been a while now since I last practiced, but I enjoy the sport greatly and could not help but join in. I will be the first to admit my performance was mediocre at best, but in the company I was in amongst I am not surprised. Master Aureth who tied with myself with four points did admirably, and the Redrain Princess set a high bar with her shots. Bravely followed by Princess Lou (that I think the Jeweller hostess made some faux pas of title, though I missed it myself.) that took to the further targets willing to take a risk, I for one, was not. Though the winner was clear when the last of the Master Viktarkim's shots landed as a bullseye! The first two shots I thought were impressive enough, and the man very much earnt his win.
The prize looked spectacular and I would call the whole event an utter success! I did not expect to win, and against other skilled archers I am not at all ashamed to be bested. I hope by the time the next rolls about I will have more practice in.
It has been a while now since I last practiced, but I enjoy the sport greatly and could not help but join in. I will be the first to admit my performance was mediocre at best, but in the company I was in amongst I am not surprised. Master Aureth who tied with myself with four points did admirably, and the Redrain Princess set a high bar with her shots. Bravely followed by Princess Lou (that I think the Jeweller hostess made some faux pas of title, though I missed it myself.) that took to the further targets willing to take a risk, I for one, was not. Though the winner was clear when the last of the Master Viktarkim's shots landed as a bullseye! The first two shots I thought were impressive enough, and the man very much earnt his win.
The prize looked spectacular and I would call the whole event an utter success! I did not expect to win, and against other skilled archers I am not at all ashamed to be bested. I hope by the time the next rolls about I will have more practice in.
Written By Pietro
Oct. 16, 2016, 11:03 p.m.(11/11/1004 AR)
I love storytelling, even if I haven't the knack for it myself -- more like an endless spill of words with no clear beginning, middle or end, but lots of exclamation points -- so it was great to go to the Hero's Tales event. I love heroes! I love tales!
Lady Sylphie's retelling of the story of unified Gemecitta was the best of the lot, never mind the winners and I write without any bias whatsoever. It was good to see her and Lord Valkieri so companionable. The strength of Gemecitta is always in unity, just like the story tells, and if there are two houses with more fortitude in their blood than Rubino and Zaffria in all the Lyceum, well, I can't imagine it!
Lady Sylphie's retelling of the story of unified Gemecitta was the best of the lot, never mind the winners and I write without any bias whatsoever. It was good to see her and Lord Valkieri so companionable. The strength of Gemecitta is always in unity, just like the story tells, and if there are two houses with more fortitude in their blood than Rubino and Zaffria in all the Lyceum, well, I can't imagine it!
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.