Written By Victus
Sept. 4, 2016, 10:36 a.m.(6/25/1004 AR)
Don't much care for losing, and never have. Nobody with any self respect and desire to improve should be comfortable with a loss. That said, you can't fear it either. While its always preferable to win, a loss provides you with an opportunity to look at what you did, and what you could've done better, and then improve.
And when the stakes are nothing but pride and silver, which means the stakes are nothing at all, you'll never get a cheaper opportunity.
And I got an excuse to tell everything business related to fuck off while I recuperate with hot baths and a lot of booze. Its medicinal, you see, when my whole fucking body aches.
And when the stakes are nothing but pride and silver, which means the stakes are nothing at all, you'll never get a cheaper opportunity.
And I got an excuse to tell everything business related to fuck off while I recuperate with hot baths and a lot of booze. Its medicinal, you see, when my whole fucking body aches.
Written By Calain
Sept. 4, 2016, 9:46 a.m.(6/24/1004 AR)
Overall I'm quite happy with how this event played out. Lady Dawn was good enough to handle all the announcements and rewarding of the winners so I could simply sit back and watch.
It is interesting to see what these sorts of situations bring out in people, what it reveals about their characters. Not only the participants but also the spectators. Who they cheer for, what they remark upon. How they fit events to suit their pre-existing notions. Among the participants it is interesting to see who they team up with, who they target, who they protect and how they fight. Who loses their temper, or is upset if chance turns against them versus who takes it in stride.
Interestingly I think tactics played a fairly small role in the conflict, most people seemed to choose who to hit based on interpersonal relationships or simple availability. I wonder if that says something about human nature, even when ostensibly fighting for a prize we claim to want, our inner natures quickly overwhelm our rational ones to dictate our actions. Abstract goals like winning a tournament can never overpower our emotional, animal instincts when in the thick of it.
It is interesting to see what these sorts of situations bring out in people, what it reveals about their characters. Not only the participants but also the spectators. Who they cheer for, what they remark upon. How they fit events to suit their pre-existing notions. Among the participants it is interesting to see who they team up with, who they target, who they protect and how they fight. Who loses their temper, or is upset if chance turns against them versus who takes it in stride.
Interestingly I think tactics played a fairly small role in the conflict, most people seemed to choose who to hit based on interpersonal relationships or simple availability. I wonder if that says something about human nature, even when ostensibly fighting for a prize we claim to want, our inner natures quickly overwhelm our rational ones to dictate our actions. Abstract goals like winning a tournament can never overpower our emotional, animal instincts when in the thick of it.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 4, 2016, 5:54 a.m.(6/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Selene
I've only truly had two opportunities to meet Radiant Selene Whisper; once in the wake of eyes which followed her when she left the Ambassador Salon, and once at the Tournament Grounds for the Grand Melee. But she's the type of woman who burns a memory that you don't want to forget. It doesn't take much to realize just how perfect she is for her title. In the sparse words we shared within the stands, just by her posture, the delivery: she's the epitome of grace. I tend to censor some of my writings, for one reason or another, but well. Fuck. She's good at what she does.
Written By Calista
Sept. 4, 2016, 5:37 a.m.(6/24/1004 AR)
The worst kind of party to have is a pity party. It's never well attended and there's an over indulgence of booze that leaves one dealing with a mild case of amnesia the following day.
Thank the gods for Prince Fergus and the strong brew of whiskey he gifted me with. I'm back to my old self even if it took a full day of recovery. Just how exactly is this whiskey prepared. I do not remember falling asleep. I just remember it being such a beautiful slumber.
Note to self: leave a sprig of mint by the beside table after imbibing whiskey the night before. I'm so grateful to have woken up alone. The horrors of hangover morning breath will certainly scare any lover from returning to one's bed.
Not mine, of course. I would never do such things.
Thank the gods for Prince Fergus and the strong brew of whiskey he gifted me with. I'm back to my old self even if it took a full day of recovery. Just how exactly is this whiskey prepared. I do not remember falling asleep. I just remember it being such a beautiful slumber.
Note to self: leave a sprig of mint by the beside table after imbibing whiskey the night before. I'm so grateful to have woken up alone. The horrors of hangover morning breath will certainly scare any lover from returning to one's bed.
Not mine, of course. I would never do such things.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 4, 2016, 1:52 a.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Anastasio
I'm fairly certain that if I got my hands on that hand-written journal which Master Anastasio carries around, I'd learn more than the common mundane observations that you'd expect most people to write down. I ran into him while searching for inspiration and found him intelligent and surprisingly easy to speak to. He's extremely knowledgeable about his crafts and answered several questions I had for him regarding recent interests of mine. He struck me as having a slightly devilish streak though and I imagine with the right nudges or lures, he could be convinced to do some really fascinating things. I walked away from it with a half dozen hangover cures for-- well, hangovers.
Written By Ida
Sept. 3, 2016, 10:03 p.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
How do you describe the indescribable? Every time I think I have seen something beyond splendid here in Arx, I see something to top the last. Granted, I do not attend many events, as that just isn't my thing, but the fights? Who would miss such a thing? Especially when I was so graciously, never mind generously, honored with the task of forging the blades that would go to the winners?
Mistress Joscelin and I went together and were quickly surrounded by more cheering observers than I may ever have seen. Mistress Acacia was near, who I am forever glad to see at these things. I swear she's as fluid as water and just as refreshing to everyone around her. Master Audric caused me some laughter and it was lovely sharing the benches with Princess Reese Grayson. I did not speak much directly with her highness, though she felt like part of our little merry group while I was there, truly.
The fighting impressed me beyond measure. His Grace, Prince Edain, fought so well and honorably, as always. It makes me so proud. Everyone, truly, had something to be proud of out on that field and I enjoyed it all very much. Sadly, I lost the bet I had placed and owe Mistress Acacia a high quality weapon of her choice, for which I can't even be upset over! The evening, while I slipped out a bit earlier than I had wanted to, was another one of those memories I will hold for a long time.
Mistress Joscelin and I went together and were quickly surrounded by more cheering observers than I may ever have seen. Mistress Acacia was near, who I am forever glad to see at these things. I swear she's as fluid as water and just as refreshing to everyone around her. Master Audric caused me some laughter and it was lovely sharing the benches with Princess Reese Grayson. I did not speak much directly with her highness, though she felt like part of our little merry group while I was there, truly.
The fighting impressed me beyond measure. His Grace, Prince Edain, fought so well and honorably, as always. It makes me so proud. Everyone, truly, had something to be proud of out on that field and I enjoyed it all very much. Sadly, I lost the bet I had placed and owe Mistress Acacia a high quality weapon of her choice, for which I can't even be upset over! The evening, while I slipped out a bit earlier than I had wanted to, was another one of those memories I will hold for a long time.
Written By Alrec
Sept. 3, 2016, 9:44 p.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
The things you do for love. When they inspire you, they elevate the man to the skies among the birds but when love turns on you, it makes you weak. Remember this my friend. I could not help but feel dispair for the mountain the moment his fat head came down with a wet smack against the stage floor. Not because I was concerned for his health, he is built like an ox. It was shame, and I was projecting. Mostly because I am a sucker for love stories and the struggles of the little man against the giant, this time, I was the villian and couldn't help but enjoy playing that part. Everyone was praising his endurance but when you've had the chance to see how our stock of men do in a fight you know what to expect. Marcas though, what an interesting man. Like a mix between a bear and a wolf.
Written By Kima
Sept. 3, 2016, 7:59 p.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
Is that sympathy I see lurking behind your eyes, scholar, or just indigestion? Spicy food will do that to you. Ah, but I note the crease that begins to form that predicts a frown. No, friend, I do not mock you today, but I would ask that you not pity me. My face, after all, remains remarkably unscathed!
I did so look forward to the melee, and was more than happy to participate even if - and I confess this with the utmost chagrin - my showing was rather poor. Nobody likes to lose, and never let anyone tell you otherwise. They're either a liar or a deviant (or both). More than that, though, I had truly astounding team mates and do not regret for a second having either of them at my side. I think we put on a good showing for what the might of combined Houses can do, and I hope that others saw it as well.
All of the competitors were worthy, though, and should be the pride of Arx. I'd fight beside any of them against a horde of screaming Shavs, and be happy to do it.
Prince Darren Redrain
Princess Deva Redrain
Lady Brianna Halfshav
Duke Niccolo
Prince Luca
The Sword of Lenosia, Talen Artiglio
Prince Edain
Duke Leo
Sir Silas Mercier
Crown Investigator Laric Grayson
And finally,
Lord Victus Thrax
Captain Marcas Aodh
I salute you, in pride and humility.
I did so look forward to the melee, and was more than happy to participate even if - and I confess this with the utmost chagrin - my showing was rather poor. Nobody likes to lose, and never let anyone tell you otherwise. They're either a liar or a deviant (or both). More than that, though, I had truly astounding team mates and do not regret for a second having either of them at my side. I think we put on a good showing for what the might of combined Houses can do, and I hope that others saw it as well.
All of the competitors were worthy, though, and should be the pride of Arx. I'd fight beside any of them against a horde of screaming Shavs, and be happy to do it.
Prince Darren Redrain
Princess Deva Redrain
Lady Brianna Halfshav
Duke Niccolo
Prince Luca
The Sword of Lenosia, Talen Artiglio
Prince Edain
Duke Leo
Sir Silas Mercier
Crown Investigator Laric Grayson
And finally,
Lord Victus Thrax
Captain Marcas Aodh
I salute you, in pride and humility.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 3, 2016, 7:21 p.m.(6/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Sudara
Met a scholar of history today. A Pravus, no less. Only in the capital.
Not the scheming dowager I had expected. She actually seemed quite conscientious.
Written By Darren
Sept. 3, 2016, 1:26 p.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Marcas
Master Marcas Aodh. I had heard a lot of news about his prowess and his win against the Sword of Lenosia, and was excited to meet him upon the battlefield at the Grand Melee. A worthy opponent, and I would expect no less from one of mine, although I would have much rather liked him on my team than against me.
I can't blame him for convincing his team to go after me first. They showed remarkable strength together. And while there was a certain bit of tension while blood was still running high, I was able to have quite a solid discussion with him after the event that I think did some good for the both of us.
I'll look forward to teaming up with him at another event to show the might of the North.
I can't blame him for convincing his team to go after me first. They showed remarkable strength together. And while there was a certain bit of tension while blood was still running high, I was able to have quite a solid discussion with him after the event that I think did some good for the both of us.
I'll look forward to teaming up with him at another event to show the might of the North.
Written By Jaenelle
Sept. 3, 2016, 1:12 p.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
Mirari was one of the first people I met upon returning to Arx, and she is a delight. On top of being wonderful company, she is quite the capable hair stylist and it is only a shame that I can't steal her away from house Pravus and keep her all to myself.
Written By Jaenelle
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:57 p.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
I wasn't sure what Lord Prospero wished to do when I accepted his offer to join him, but quickly found out it was for business and not pleasure. Accompanied by Lord Eos, the three of us went to the cemetery in the lower boroughs to investigate the alibi of one of Lord Prospero's clients. Unfortunately, we never got that information as we were attacked by a crazed man! Lord Prospero was struck in the head, and if it was not for Lord Eos' valiant efforts to keep us safe, I fear I would not be here to retell this dramatic adventure that befell us.
Written By Darren
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:42 p.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
The Grand Melee was a vicious, entertaining evening. I was a late entry, but had conscripted the might of my sister and the Lady Halfshav to fight along side; we were as ferocious a team as any.
Myself and Lord Victus Thrax were the first to be targetted - I by the Lord himself and his entire team, him by everybody else in the match. Most of the fighters that took on Lord Victus eventually dispersed onto other foes, but the team of Lord Victus, Lady Kima Saik, and Master Marcas Aodh were unrelenting in their pursuit to put me in the ground. I held fast - a bear of the North does not go down without a fight, no matter how many foes he is up against. Master Marcas impressed me with his might, and it was him and Lady Kima that got most of the more serious blows against me. I had the satisfaction of watching Lady Kima go down first, though. I'll be sure to send Mistress Eithne quite a bit more work, as her steel armour was impressive.
Though none from the North managed to secure a win, Deva and Brianna made an impressive showing. Fourth and fifth place, respectively. It was a fine and impressive showing of what us Northmen can accomplish.
Surprisingly, it was Prince Luca who came away with the win. Without wearing any armour, to boot. I saw how he tore into Lady Kima, and I'll give the Prince this - he impressed me this night. I suppose I'll allow him to stick around for awhile longer.
I did not get a chance to stick around to enjoy the rush that comes after the battle, as there was quite a bit of business to attend to. But I am reminded, as sometimes I still do require reminding, that words and gestures both in the battlefield and out hold weight which are incapable of being measured.
Myself and Lord Victus Thrax were the first to be targetted - I by the Lord himself and his entire team, him by everybody else in the match. Most of the fighters that took on Lord Victus eventually dispersed onto other foes, but the team of Lord Victus, Lady Kima Saik, and Master Marcas Aodh were unrelenting in their pursuit to put me in the ground. I held fast - a bear of the North does not go down without a fight, no matter how many foes he is up against. Master Marcas impressed me with his might, and it was him and Lady Kima that got most of the more serious blows against me. I had the satisfaction of watching Lady Kima go down first, though. I'll be sure to send Mistress Eithne quite a bit more work, as her steel armour was impressive.
Though none from the North managed to secure a win, Deva and Brianna made an impressive showing. Fourth and fifth place, respectively. It was a fine and impressive showing of what us Northmen can accomplish.
Surprisingly, it was Prince Luca who came away with the win. Without wearing any armour, to boot. I saw how he tore into Lady Kima, and I'll give the Prince this - he impressed me this night. I suppose I'll allow him to stick around for awhile longer.
I did not get a chance to stick around to enjoy the rush that comes after the battle, as there was quite a bit of business to attend to. But I am reminded, as sometimes I still do require reminding, that words and gestures both in the battlefield and out hold weight which are incapable of being measured.
Written By Laric
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:31 p.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
My hand hurts so painfully I can hardly put thoughts to paper. I pray the Gods don't find a slight in this, but if they do, you try writing sober with your ribs screaming bloody murder at you.
Written By Dagon
Sept. 3, 2016, 11:21 a.m.(6/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
Cousin. It seemed everything was against you at that melee and yet you managed to last far longer than any other under similar circumstances. Seeing you fight so fiercely gave me an intense pride, cousin. The next melee we shall have to fight together, and I can only hope not to be left drowning in your wake, you magnificent bastard.
Written By Anastasio
Sept. 3, 2016, 7:20 a.m.(6/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
Acacia Culler. There's something devious in that one, but a spark of camaraderie and kindness that you get in somewhat kindred spirits. She's risen far, and already the habits of the silks are working their way into her life. But so far, she's not forgotten her roots.
Written By Anastasio
Sept. 3, 2016, 7:19 a.m.(6/21/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
I met Princess Alarissa Valardin yesterday, in a most unexpected turn of circumstance. She has taken the Valardin people as her own and seems to care for them as deeply as someone born into the Oathlands. She impressed me with her sincerity and I will not soon forget her kindness.
Written By Silas
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:59 a.m.(6/20/1004 AR)
The Grand Melee was something to behold. A massive fight, the blades of skilled warriors clashing, and the man without anything donned to protect himself ultimately coming out on top as the two others standing knock each other out of the contest.
I really don't have any regrets on how it turned out, even if I came out a loser.
Before the melee was underway, I advised Prince Laric to leave Prince Edain and Duke Leo alone for now, given they were shorthanded one man like we were. This unspoken plan had to be discarded when they turned their focus on us. I suspect this may have been the point where things went awry with us; Laric was quickly downed and I had already did a fair amount of damage to them both when they finally turned their attention to the Lycene team and I followed suit.
Then Lady Deva got in the way.
To be fair, if she wanted to win, she needed to get me out too. Completely understandable. That glaive has some impressive reach and she managed to bloody me quite a bit before I had to face off against Duke Niccolo and Prince Luca. I won the duel, but she sealed my fate, I believe.
Then again, Duke Niccolo and Prince Luca hit very hard as well, I soon discovered.
A good fight, indeed. Now back to work!
I really don't have any regrets on how it turned out, even if I came out a loser.
Before the melee was underway, I advised Prince Laric to leave Prince Edain and Duke Leo alone for now, given they were shorthanded one man like we were. This unspoken plan had to be discarded when they turned their focus on us. I suspect this may have been the point where things went awry with us; Laric was quickly downed and I had already did a fair amount of damage to them both when they finally turned their attention to the Lycene team and I followed suit.
Then Lady Deva got in the way.
To be fair, if she wanted to win, she needed to get me out too. Completely understandable. That glaive has some impressive reach and she managed to bloody me quite a bit before I had to face off against Duke Niccolo and Prince Luca. I won the duel, but she sealed my fate, I believe.
Then again, Duke Niccolo and Prince Luca hit very hard as well, I soon discovered.
A good fight, indeed. Now back to work!
Written By Silas
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:48 a.m.(6/20/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
Yet another Inquisitor of House Grayson I have managed to befriend! I had approached him with an offer to join me in the Grand Melee to represent House Grayson, who was hosting the event. I tested his mettle, and while he clearly lacks the experience to stand long against the storied warriors of Arx, the man definitely has potential and natural toughness. I hope he doesn't let up in learning combat, but it may be a good thing to let him find his own pace.
Written By Sina
Sept. 3, 2016, 12:22 a.m.(6/20/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
Princess Donella has always been a stalwart figurehead in my life. It gives me a great deal of pride to serve the Voice of Thrax. If I could be another person, as I sometimes dream I could, it would be her - she stands out from the men.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.