Written By Orazio
Sept. 13, 2016, 10:15 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
My niece. Talented, but impetuous.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 13, 2016, 9:22 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
As the days wear on I find myself missing home.
I should make some time to get outside the walls. Princess Ophelia has been kind enough to invite me, and I understand Princess Loucia is an explorer of some renown.
Hopefully I will be able to make the time.
Written By Signe
Sept. 13, 2016, 4:09 p.m.(7/24/1004 AR)
Life is meant to be experienced now. So, I didn't waste my time packing out and settling in my chambers after arrival. I rushed out from the mansion to explore our glorious capital!
Of course, I didn't run out into an unknown city all by myself. A brave and handsome Vidar was following me. I consider him my best friend and the most amusing company. To those who do not know, let me introduce Vidor. He is a robust and thick-coated hound. He is a great visual example of the breed. Mostly reddish-orange with hints of brown here and there, mostly around the edges of the ears, with most of the face, the underside, and the front legs all white. With light amber eyes and a brown nose that is starting to border on pink, this my beloved hound would likely be considered beautiful by most.
So, we took a walk. I must admit that I got lost three times. Though, Vidar smelled our way out into the right path. So, no worries here. I must admit that I do not like crowded streets and those grey buildings all around me. Vidar didn't like that too. He was barking a lot. I do not think that passersby liked us either. But it doesn't matter.
To sum up, I must say that my first day in Arx is great. Though, others will be even more marvelous, because I plan to visit surroundings: beach and forests.
Let the adventure begin!
Of course, I didn't run out into an unknown city all by myself. A brave and handsome Vidar was following me. I consider him my best friend and the most amusing company. To those who do not know, let me introduce Vidor. He is a robust and thick-coated hound. He is a great visual example of the breed. Mostly reddish-orange with hints of brown here and there, mostly around the edges of the ears, with most of the face, the underside, and the front legs all white. With light amber eyes and a brown nose that is starting to border on pink, this my beloved hound would likely be considered beautiful by most.
So, we took a walk. I must admit that I got lost three times. Though, Vidar smelled our way out into the right path. So, no worries here. I must admit that I do not like crowded streets and those grey buildings all around me. Vidar didn't like that too. He was barking a lot. I do not think that passersby liked us either. But it doesn't matter.
To sum up, I must say that my first day in Arx is great. Though, others will be even more marvelous, because I plan to visit surroundings: beach and forests.
Let the adventure begin!
Written By Lou
Sept. 13, 2016, 12:49 p.m.(7/23/1004 AR)
Being in the city has never been easy for me. Even Bastion, since I have come of age, only ever provides a temporary respite.
I yearn to be sleeping under the stars and spending my days going where none of my people have set foot in decades.
The last couple of days have brought increasingly troubling things to my feet. Ones that beg -- that demand -- I remain within the city as a scion of Grayson. I am told I am a leader, even if I do not play the games of salons and whispers.
...but who do I lead? And where am I leading them?
I yearn to be sleeping under the stars and spending my days going where none of my people have set foot in decades.
The last couple of days have brought increasingly troubling things to my feet. Ones that beg -- that demand -- I remain within the city as a scion of Grayson. I am told I am a leader, even if I do not play the games of salons and whispers.
...but who do I lead? And where am I leading them?
Written By Laric
Sept. 13, 2016, 5:08 a.m.(7/22/1004 AR)
Because it is demanded that I fill both black and white pages, and because I have filled many black pages already tonight, I will attempt to fill a white page.
There can be no doubt that my heart has been tugged in directions I never thought it might in the shortest period of time. Companionship, grief, shock, genuine ire and humility I didn't ask for all have struck me across the chops and I find I am punch drunk for it.
I beg forgiveness for my trespasses against those I hold dear now. My family - I would do anything for you, and I believe this is self-evident. But there are those amongst this Kingdom besides that I feel destined to disappoint, even if I work in their very best interests. You may not understand. I may beg you to, but I will not demand it.
Even so, I will say some remarks for those I have laid eyes on recently.
Lady Olivia Ashford, I find, has a pure soul and I pray that if she reads this or not, she understands that I do intend to avoid her. I have read Lord Rainier Ashford's recent entry to the journals as well, and I must let him down as well. It seems at present there will be no expedition, even if I pledged one at the conference. I intend to talk to you both in person and apologize there.
Princess Isolde Velenosa, we have become very fast friends in a short time. Do you trust me? Perhaps in my shoes you would understand that trust does not always preclude hurt. Even as yet I do not intend to disappoint you.
Sir Silas, you remain a steadfast support in times of great turmoil and I intend to return the favor to you for the Iron Guard.
Lou & Mason Grayson. Cooler heads prevail, they say, but I cannot say I understand where your particular temerity comes from. Nor your association with a shav. Viktarkim. I pray you aren't making a mistake.
And Lady Dawn. No use in pretense. You understood.
Larissa Whisper patiently awaits my call and I feel there is no better time than presently, so I will draft a letter. Eithne as well deserves my thanks in person when next I've time. Other unnamed hires will be made for less pleasant purposes. And I've yet to call on Prince Darren.
Perhaps if I'd known the Inquisition's business would call on me thus I wouldn't have joined. It is rather tiresome.
There can be no doubt that my heart has been tugged in directions I never thought it might in the shortest period of time. Companionship, grief, shock, genuine ire and humility I didn't ask for all have struck me across the chops and I find I am punch drunk for it.
I beg forgiveness for my trespasses against those I hold dear now. My family - I would do anything for you, and I believe this is self-evident. But there are those amongst this Kingdom besides that I feel destined to disappoint, even if I work in their very best interests. You may not understand. I may beg you to, but I will not demand it.
Even so, I will say some remarks for those I have laid eyes on recently.
Lady Olivia Ashford, I find, has a pure soul and I pray that if she reads this or not, she understands that I do intend to avoid her. I have read Lord Rainier Ashford's recent entry to the journals as well, and I must let him down as well. It seems at present there will be no expedition, even if I pledged one at the conference. I intend to talk to you both in person and apologize there.
Princess Isolde Velenosa, we have become very fast friends in a short time. Do you trust me? Perhaps in my shoes you would understand that trust does not always preclude hurt. Even as yet I do not intend to disappoint you.
Sir Silas, you remain a steadfast support in times of great turmoil and I intend to return the favor to you for the Iron Guard.
Lou & Mason Grayson. Cooler heads prevail, they say, but I cannot say I understand where your particular temerity comes from. Nor your association with a shav. Viktarkim. I pray you aren't making a mistake.
And Lady Dawn. No use in pretense. You understood.
Larissa Whisper patiently awaits my call and I feel there is no better time than presently, so I will draft a letter. Eithne as well deserves my thanks in person when next I've time. Other unnamed hires will be made for less pleasant purposes. And I've yet to call on Prince Darren.
Perhaps if I'd known the Inquisition's business would call on me thus I wouldn't have joined. It is rather tiresome.
Written By Zotikos
Sept. 12, 2016, 7:27 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
It seems that House Telmar is doomed to fail and burn in the fires of irresponsible causality and the usual death and decay that takes over once the young have hatched and itch to consume the body of the parent before moving on to their own lives. While I doubt my nephew has it in him to be so ambitious, I will say that he's a sad disappointment from the fighter I remember him being as a child. This pretentious creature I ran into in the markets (as he did not give word to his own House that he had returned) is as self-entitled as he ever was.
But I genuinely hope he proves me otherwise. I have no intention of fathering a child, so literally, the fate of Telmar's future rests on him.
But I genuinely hope he proves me otherwise. I have no intention of fathering a child, so literally, the fate of Telmar's future rests on him.
Written By Mason
Sept. 12, 2016, 3:54 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lou
Lou is still trying to adapt to the way of life in a city. I think, well, I know she doesn't really enjoy it here. That she doubts her ability to fit in as well she thinks she should.
It's not a failing, it's simply how she is. Her tendency of not mincing words, and a worry that she would say something someone has no desire to hear. And that she relies on me keep things smooth. Which I'm more than happy to do so.
I want to make her happy, but for all my efforts, I do not know if I will be able to truly do so while she remains here. I even brought up the matter of children with her to perhaps give something to focus on. I don't even know if children would make her happy. I know I would be, for I have no desire to raise my children with the same mentality that my own siblings had.
Still, having children shouldn't be done for the sake of doing so. I don't want Lou to think she's tied somewhere, but I also know she fears being a good parent, while at the same time wanting the freedom to do what she's done all her life.
It's a delicate balance, and I try my best to keep her from doubting too much.
Eventually I hope she finds her place. Comfortable, even. Even if it's not the comfort she prefers in the wilderness. Regardless of that, I will follow her.
It's not a failing, it's simply how she is. Her tendency of not mincing words, and a worry that she would say something someone has no desire to hear. And that she relies on me keep things smooth. Which I'm more than happy to do so.
I want to make her happy, but for all my efforts, I do not know if I will be able to truly do so while she remains here. I even brought up the matter of children with her to perhaps give something to focus on. I don't even know if children would make her happy. I know I would be, for I have no desire to raise my children with the same mentality that my own siblings had.
Still, having children shouldn't be done for the sake of doing so. I don't want Lou to think she's tied somewhere, but I also know she fears being a good parent, while at the same time wanting the freedom to do what she's done all her life.
It's a delicate balance, and I try my best to keep her from doubting too much.
Eventually I hope she finds her place. Comfortable, even. Even if it's not the comfort she prefers in the wilderness. Regardless of that, I will follow her.
Written By Lou
Sept. 12, 2016, 3:51 p.m.(7/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
Those that told me of her skill were not wrong.
I both wish to use my new crossbow frequently... and to put it up upon the wall to admire.
I both wish to use my new crossbow frequently... and to put it up upon the wall to admire.
Written By Darren
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:47 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Deva
I promised I would protect you. I meant it when I said that.
Written By Deva
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:38 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Today I learned that saunas make my hair unbearable, even for me, and that I am comfortable only where I can drink whatever I please. I quite enjoy beach bonfires and rousing stories, though. There were so many stars. And so much sand in my boots the day after. Worth it, though.
Written By Ophelia
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:24 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Dear Diary,
I know that I am so very-very bad at writing to you, but I get very caught up in the little things and I don't have that much time. Alas, I ripped the sole of my favorite pair of boots when scaling a very precarious set of stairs that may or may not of had the qualities of a tree outside of a window at the Velenosan Estate. While that and my twisted ankle mend, and since I am told that I can't run around barefoot, I will write.
Digging your toes into sand is wonderful. Luca and Deva shared this experience with me last night and I felt closer to them for it. Experiences oft color what we do with our futures, but stories can also inspire. I was disappointed that the hostess had to leave after the first story was done (and it was a great story with monsters and swords and killing), but Sir Silas made up for the fact brilliantly with an engaging one to follow about irate rabbits (the bane of bowless warriors), eight foot tall harrowing creatures who became first kills (Lord Zotikos informed me harrowing was a suitable word for ugly) and a vast quantity of angry rats who escaped mostly unharmed into the wilderness (the bane of cooks and scholars).
Princess Deva seemed troubled. If whiskey and drinks didn't immediately go to my head to produce the most cloud-like and distracting mental haze, I would have attended to her more and I need to do just that. Watching her laugh later though was wonderful. Perhaps she needs something to hunt to vent the tension or maybe someone took away her rights to shoot apples off people's heads also. That would make anyone morose. She did have the ingenious and experienced idea, though, that when books are exceptionally tedious (which they usually are), it is best to have someone read to you. I wonder if there's any who could do so while I hunt.
Yours Truly,
Ophelia
I know that I am so very-very bad at writing to you, but I get very caught up in the little things and I don't have that much time. Alas, I ripped the sole of my favorite pair of boots when scaling a very precarious set of stairs that may or may not of had the qualities of a tree outside of a window at the Velenosan Estate. While that and my twisted ankle mend, and since I am told that I can't run around barefoot, I will write.
Digging your toes into sand is wonderful. Luca and Deva shared this experience with me last night and I felt closer to them for it. Experiences oft color what we do with our futures, but stories can also inspire. I was disappointed that the hostess had to leave after the first story was done (and it was a great story with monsters and swords and killing), but Sir Silas made up for the fact brilliantly with an engaging one to follow about irate rabbits (the bane of bowless warriors), eight foot tall harrowing creatures who became first kills (Lord Zotikos informed me harrowing was a suitable word for ugly) and a vast quantity of angry rats who escaped mostly unharmed into the wilderness (the bane of cooks and scholars).
Princess Deva seemed troubled. If whiskey and drinks didn't immediately go to my head to produce the most cloud-like and distracting mental haze, I would have attended to her more and I need to do just that. Watching her laugh later though was wonderful. Perhaps she needs something to hunt to vent the tension or maybe someone took away her rights to shoot apples off people's heads also. That would make anyone morose. She did have the ingenious and experienced idea, though, that when books are exceptionally tedious (which they usually are), it is best to have someone read to you. I wonder if there's any who could do so while I hunt.
Yours Truly,
Ophelia
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:12 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
I originally met Mistress Joscelin Arterius at the market day hosted by Lady Dawn. I remember her jewelry, although we barely crossed a word that day. It was very busy. More recently I had a chance to share a drink with her. I found her to be entertaining, and capable of some keen insights. She seems to be a fan of Acacia, which is rather cute, I must say. I'm curious to see how she presents herself in future meetings.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:06 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Anastasio
Master Anastasio Belari is a herbalist and a healer, and one that I've heard a few good things about. I finally had a chance to meet him, and if there's anything that impressed me about him is his honesty. He is pretty straightforward, which is something I can appreciate it and reminds me some of the soldiers I used to fight alongside with back home. He is seeking to open a shop, and I am considering helping him with it.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:04 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Benjamin
Master Carver, I met him while at the Ambassador Salon. I was enjoying a drink with my protege and she had mentioned his name to me. She decided to invite him over. It was certainly a good decision. The man is interesting, and he does remind of Acacia, in a very strange way. He apparently is a good a surgeon, as he is a cook. I'll have to get him to cook something I can try sometime, and perhaps I'll reach out to him after the next time I spar.
Written By Leo
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:44 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Eos
The Lord of Saik, he is a military man through and through. Aware of his family's place, he works to achieve security for Saik through is abilities.
Written By Isolde
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:39 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Esera, my sweet, how do I love thee?
Let me count the ways...
With fury, and rage, and exasperation,
I do sing with the joyous tone of my love.
When confounded, frustrated, and ready to scream,
I only dance with elation.
No matter the cost of loving her,
I pay willingly, often, and with great peril
To those around me.
When bardic songs write of the bonds
Of Sister to Sister,
The world will tremble, weep, and rejoice.
- "To Esera, Love Isolde" by Princess Isolde Velenosa
Let me count the ways...
With fury, and rage, and exasperation,
I do sing with the joyous tone of my love.
When confounded, frustrated, and ready to scream,
I only dance with elation.
No matter the cost of loving her,
I pay willingly, often, and with great peril
To those around me.
When bardic songs write of the bonds
Of Sister to Sister,
The world will tremble, weep, and rejoice.
- "To Esera, Love Isolde" by Princess Isolde Velenosa
Written By Esera
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:34 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
I love my sister, but she drives me mad. I don't think she drives anyone else half as mad, but I also don't think anyone else loves her half as much as I do. I will probably have to buy her a castle one day.
Written By Leo
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:27 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Aurora
A clothier of exceptional skills, she has wrought exquisite pieces for commission as both gifts and in outfitting family.
Written By Rainier
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:25 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Olivia
At least cooler heads may still prevail. I was asked to join Liv with Lady Dawn and Prince Laric in some sort of insect-retrieval expedition.
I shall go of course because I want to know more about the wild cards in this bunch but more so for I think more than bites will put us all at risk this time.
We are an uneven bunch, this group of allies. We do not know each other and riding with unknown friends can be as dire a thing as against armed enemies - in its way.
Liv is strong and she has seen a lot of pain but she has experienced little. While I hope it stays that way it is a near certainty that it shall not.
Duty or honor? Again the question vexes me.
I shall go of course because I want to know more about the wild cards in this bunch but more so for I think more than bites will put us all at risk this time.
We are an uneven bunch, this group of allies. We do not know each other and riding with unknown friends can be as dire a thing as against armed enemies - in its way.
Liv is strong and she has seen a lot of pain but she has experienced little. While I hope it stays that way it is a near certainty that it shall not.
Duty or honor? Again the question vexes me.
Written By Rainier
Sept. 11, 2016, 10:21 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Thankfully she is not her father. Lady Dawn does not see this, and I hope that she will.
It is difficult to make something of the woman - I think it may be because she is still shaping herself, caught between what she thinks she must become and what will happen once she's truly caught between the hammer and the forge.
It changes people. She has a small number of trustees and I hope it stays that way as it seems words still wound her; an oddity. But there are many daggers poised at that one's throat, not all of steel, and it must grate. Being a bastard doesn't help either, who knows what chip she's carried in her life.
The news she gave me are dire. I hope I can help but information gathering is far from my forte; still, we must all do as we must, and since when did whining about it help anything?
It is difficult to make something of the woman - I think it may be because she is still shaping herself, caught between what she thinks she must become and what will happen once she's truly caught between the hammer and the forge.
It changes people. She has a small number of trustees and I hope it stays that way as it seems words still wound her; an oddity. But there are many daggers poised at that one's throat, not all of steel, and it must grate. Being a bastard doesn't help either, who knows what chip she's carried in her life.
The news she gave me are dire. I hope I can help but information gathering is far from my forte; still, we must all do as we must, and since when did whining about it help anything?
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.