Written By Isolde
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:58 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Has it truly been three years? It feels so long ago, and yet, I remember it like yesterday. The Mirror's Masquerade of 1001 AR, where I danced the dance of my life, where I became who I am, who I was always meant to be. No other dance has come close, or meant so much. Will another dance ever fill me with purity of purpose? Will a night ever change me so thoroughly again?
I often wonder what my family thinks of that night, where their sweet, studious daughter, shy, and reluctant to go out in public sister went. Barely noticed by a Sword, often left to her own devices for weeks, and happy to do so. A girl with a sense of longing for a life that seemed just out of reach, lost in her thoughts watching the surf for hours, with a book in her lap. She seems a dream now, and I wonder if anyone from my past would even recognize me now.
I don't miss that girl. I bear her no ill will, far from it, in fact. She learned to listen, to watch, and to see the world unlike anyone else. But she was not made for this world. She would have crumbled to dust when her mother's head was sent back to the city. She would never mingle with Northern Princes, or boldly challenge Valardin Faithful. She would never make a mark on the world, happy to stay in the shadows, unnoticed. She had her place, and it is in my past. Now I am something more, something greater, and with the strength of the Thirteenth, I shall make this world, and our people, greater than they could ever have dreamed.
I often wonder what my family thinks of that night, where their sweet, studious daughter, shy, and reluctant to go out in public sister went. Barely noticed by a Sword, often left to her own devices for weeks, and happy to do so. A girl with a sense of longing for a life that seemed just out of reach, lost in her thoughts watching the surf for hours, with a book in her lap. She seems a dream now, and I wonder if anyone from my past would even recognize me now.
I don't miss that girl. I bear her no ill will, far from it, in fact. She learned to listen, to watch, and to see the world unlike anyone else. But she was not made for this world. She would have crumbled to dust when her mother's head was sent back to the city. She would never mingle with Northern Princes, or boldly challenge Valardin Faithful. She would never make a mark on the world, happy to stay in the shadows, unnoticed. She had her place, and it is in my past. Now I am something more, something greater, and with the strength of the Thirteenth, I shall make this world, and our people, greater than they could ever have dreamed.
Written By Deva
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:35 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Prince Edain might be one of the most genuinely good people I know. He's nice, funny, and incredibly resilient for having so much responsibility thrown his way. Always polite, but he never gives me a hard time about my absolute disdain of southern formality. Along with Sir Arugula, he's fast and furious, not to mention skilled with a blade. I respect him a great deal, and I'm glad to call him a friend. I wish the world didn't hang so heavy on his shoulders. It's good to see him smile.
Written By Deva
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:22 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Part of the fun of the 'usual' hunting I engage in is actually tracking the creature in the wild, because sometimes you'll never know what you'll find, and surprises are the best. But I can do that any day! The boar hunt hosted by the Valardin - Prince Edain and Princess Malorie - was very enjoyable, and had great company involved to chase the beast down. Princess Ophelia is terrifying with a bow, as always, and Lady Dawn has quite a knack for it too. Those who managed to hit the thing up and close were pretty impressive, because that thing was on the move! I managed to land the killing shot, and received a bracelet out of the tusks afterward. All in all, it was a blast to spend the time outdoors and see people in a different light.
Written By Malorie
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:08 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Mounted sport is not for the faint of heart, and those who joined the hunt thankfully understood that unspoken sentiment. Nowhere were the frivolities of the idle rich; we'd gathered for blood and we got it in spades, from the decadent glee of Princess Ophelia's skyward archery to Sir Silas' grim determination to make certain that those things which lie dead remain so. Not that one would put any stock in the macabre tales of times and places where that isn't always the case.
Prince Edain rode like the wind; it really is no wonder Sir Arugala gives him such a hard time, being treated like he's to be turned out to pasture any day now when he is clearly one of the finest beasts to come out of Valardin's stables this generation. Prince Calain, with his uncanny knack for seeing that which by all rights should not be there, and Duke Niccolo, so calm under pressure. One must be impressed by the Count of Darkwater Watch, sea legs do a horseman no favor and yet he kept up with the pack most admirably. I'll have to show him that I can likely sail circles around him as well, he's quite handsome when he scowls really.
I mentioned Princess Ophelia already, but I must truly take a moment to reflect on the display of sporting prowess by the ladies on the hunt. Duchess Nadia, who would ever expect her to be so knowledgeable about creatures of the forest? Her charm can at times make one forget that she's a daughter of the North, whose secrets we can only guess at, we without the fortitude to brave that ice ourselves. Lady Dawn, as competitive as one might expect from a woman of her strength in the face of adversity, and Princess Deva, whose deadly aim with a bow leaves no doubt of her Redrain heritage even if her hair were not a flaming beacon.
All in all, a successful outing by any measure, and though I fear our foes will not long be beasts kept in pens and released on command, I feel a sense of accomplishment all the same.
Prince Edain rode like the wind; it really is no wonder Sir Arugala gives him such a hard time, being treated like he's to be turned out to pasture any day now when he is clearly one of the finest beasts to come out of Valardin's stables this generation. Prince Calain, with his uncanny knack for seeing that which by all rights should not be there, and Duke Niccolo, so calm under pressure. One must be impressed by the Count of Darkwater Watch, sea legs do a horseman no favor and yet he kept up with the pack most admirably. I'll have to show him that I can likely sail circles around him as well, he's quite handsome when he scowls really.
I mentioned Princess Ophelia already, but I must truly take a moment to reflect on the display of sporting prowess by the ladies on the hunt. Duchess Nadia, who would ever expect her to be so knowledgeable about creatures of the forest? Her charm can at times make one forget that she's a daughter of the North, whose secrets we can only guess at, we without the fortitude to brave that ice ourselves. Lady Dawn, as competitive as one might expect from a woman of her strength in the face of adversity, and Princess Deva, whose deadly aim with a bow leaves no doubt of her Redrain heritage even if her hair were not a flaming beacon.
All in all, a successful outing by any measure, and though I fear our foes will not long be beasts kept in pens and released on command, I feel a sense of accomplishment all the same.
Written By Gareth
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:07 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
I have often pondered if a persons faith could be classfied as a form of insanity? The Gods have their place, certainly.. but it is distant. I cannot even begin to understand whether it is a hubris, or stupidity that someone may believe that there is not only some immensley powerful being out there, but that they are interested in the affairs of humans. If we were to go by that measure, perhaps I should start paying more attention to the ant hills outside my home.
Written By Gareth
Aug. 21, 2016, 7:03 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Dawn. Princess Dawn, it is difficult to sometimes refer to her by her proper titles. She does what needs to be done to insure her position, and House Grayson's as the custodian and ruler of the compact. Would all people be as composed as her or Archduchess Esera, I might actually have difficulty during my investigation. Luckily, there are few more powerful than a Grayson Prince, and our interests align, at least in this regard, for the time being
Written By Dagon
Aug. 21, 2016, 6:27 p.m.(5/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
I recently spent some time with this young woman, and she certainly helped make what was going to be a boring evening into one that was more interesting. She is also from the islands. How curious. Her personality is certainly far more open than what I would have expected. I hope to spend some more time with her in the near future to learn more.
Written By Edain
Aug. 21, 2016, 6:11 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
So there is an old saying, "Better pray for a dragon." It means that when things look their worst you can always pray that knight of house Valardin shows up to save you. When I was younger and dreaming of being an errant knight I thought I understood this perfectly. You ride around, look for people in trouble, find said trouble, and give it such a sound thrashing it will crawl back beneath whatever rock it came from.
Since the Tragedy I have had to put aside many of my more romantic notions, and I have given a lot of thought to the true meaning of this saying. Maybe it is more bittersweet than I once realized. Perhaps it means that the Dragon's come when things are dark, but then we go away again, happy in our Oathlands. Maybe it is time that we spent more time in Arx and participated more in the Compact, maybe it is time that people didn't have to pray for a dragon as a last resort, maybe it's time that they can start counting on one already being there.
Since the Tragedy I have had to put aside many of my more romantic notions, and I have given a lot of thought to the true meaning of this saying. Maybe it is more bittersweet than I once realized. Perhaps it means that the Dragon's come when things are dark, but then we go away again, happy in our Oathlands. Maybe it is time that we spent more time in Arx and participated more in the Compact, maybe it is time that people didn't have to pray for a dragon as a last resort, maybe it's time that they can start counting on one already being there.
Written By Edain
Aug. 21, 2016, 5:51 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Isolde
Seriously, how can she be so obviously nothing but trouble, and yet so overwhelmingly nice at the same time? That just doesn't seem right, especially after spending my whole life time, learning how little you should ever trust a Mirrormask. She just has a way about her where she could say, "Dear, I am afraid I am going to need to cave in your temple with a cobbler's mallet." in her most innocent voice for a moment, just a moment, I would almost agree with her and accept this. I should really be more careful around her.
Written By Edain
Aug. 21, 2016, 5:46 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Though great distance ment we were only passingly close glowing up, I have always found Lady Dawn to be of exemplary character. She is smart and capable and no matter what anyone says of her parentage, she is the leader the Grayson desperately need right now. I am perhaps a bit biased because we share a great deal of similar opinions on important issues, but she is among the small list of people I am willing to truly call a friend.
Written By Talen
Aug. 21, 2016, 5:35 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
An upcoming underground fight to be had with brawlers from across the city piqued the Sword's interest and so he's to take part. It has been too long since he was able to truly express himself in a manner best described as 'dirty fighting' and the countless tourneys in Arx so far have all been rather rigid in their rules. As such, this will be a great opportunity for him to exercise the desire to fight like he has grown up doing so; to win, no matter the cost.
Written By Talen
Aug. 21, 2016, 4:55 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
On a whim, Talen encouraged a small, private affair in the depths of the Velenoa estate and only a few external guests were invited. With themes encouraging indulgence, it was much the flavour of a Lenosian party that brought the Sword of Lenosia a certain degree of satisfaction. With the mood one that was welcomed by its participants, another is undoubtedly on the way. Perhaps this time more liberal members of the Arxian populace will be invited, too. It's always encouraging to see people embrace southern mentalities.
Written By Talen
Aug. 21, 2016, 4:37 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Caprice
Caprice Artiglio is Talen's cousin by blood, one of the few people that he call kin without a naysayer piping up from the corner. Remarkably gifted in bringing Lyceum fashion to life, Talen is sworn to protect her not only out of love or fealty but due to the very necessity that the Velenosa family are clad by nothing else than her magnificent outfits. The only downside is she often gets so lost in her craft she can do little else, like any savant in their element. Talen's certain he can lure her out of it and give her more to life than that-- if only she'll loosen the lacing on her corset a little and let down that hair.
Written By Kima
Aug. 21, 2016, 3:54 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
It was a chance meeting, coming across Lady Dawn in the Hall of Heroes that day. I hadn't known it was her, of course. Not that, I don't believe, the opposite would have changed my mind when it came to engaging in that candid discourse.
What strikes me most about her, now that I've had the time to digest our conversation, is how genuine she appears to be. Even if it's all and only statecraft, I suppose I would rather believe someone's smile to be born of true feelings, rather than false.
...Or maybe I wouldn't. Actually, I most certainly wouldn't. Someone with that kind of potential in the art of manipulation is frightening.
Right. Lady Dawn Grayson. Our first meeting was a pleasure, and I greatly look forward to the next.
What strikes me most about her, now that I've had the time to digest our conversation, is how genuine she appears to be. Even if it's all and only statecraft, I suppose I would rather believe someone's smile to be born of true feelings, rather than false.
...Or maybe I wouldn't. Actually, I most certainly wouldn't. Someone with that kind of potential in the art of manipulation is frightening.
Right. Lady Dawn Grayson. Our first meeting was a pleasure, and I greatly look forward to the next.
Written By Enzo
Aug. 21, 2016, 3:33 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
This week is a lucky one. I made so many wonderful pieces of jewelry. Even more, I figured out where to use some parts of a low quality metal. Though, I am not yet sure if people find it appealing. I hope they will.
Also, I got a very interesting order from Admiral Alrec Magaldi. He wants a large self-portrait. I must admit, that he is quite a handsome man but still... I've never done that large self-portrait before. It's quite a challenge and I have but three days to finish it.
Also, I got a very interesting order from Admiral Alrec Magaldi. He wants a large self-portrait. I must admit, that he is quite a handsome man but still... I've never done that large self-portrait before. It's quite a challenge and I have but three days to finish it.
Written By Dawn
Aug. 21, 2016, 1:36 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
It has been a whirlwind week but one that has proven correct my decision to travel from Bastion to Arx. The work that kept me there has followed, of course. There will be no escape from that.
But here I've found some solace in the company of others. So many have expressed their sympathy and their support, and given me the opportunity to do so in return. It's heartening to hear that Grayson still has friends, that we retain their affection and, perhaps more importantly, their hope for the future. I will have to remember their kind words when I sit with my brother again, and feel his fingers grow slack when I try to curl them around my own. We need those well wishes now more than ever.
But... this week. I have met with high and low alike, attended private conferences and ridden out in the hunt. I've been allowed to watch their games, and been given the opportunity to contribute to the smiles and happiness of others.
In many ways, I am blessed and it's important to keep that in mind, no matter how difficult the days become. I have a great deal of privilege and a greater responsibility to recognize what can and must be done from the place I hold in life. I only hope that I'm able to live up to the needs of this time, for the sake of Grayson, of the Compact, of Arx and Arvum.
And I will write here too, in hopes of Vellichor reading my prayer, with Lagoma reading over his shoulder: please let my brother be returned to me, and to all of us. We need him and I miss him, so very much.
But here I've found some solace in the company of others. So many have expressed their sympathy and their support, and given me the opportunity to do so in return. It's heartening to hear that Grayson still has friends, that we retain their affection and, perhaps more importantly, their hope for the future. I will have to remember their kind words when I sit with my brother again, and feel his fingers grow slack when I try to curl them around my own. We need those well wishes now more than ever.
But... this week. I have met with high and low alike, attended private conferences and ridden out in the hunt. I've been allowed to watch their games, and been given the opportunity to contribute to the smiles and happiness of others.
In many ways, I am blessed and it's important to keep that in mind, no matter how difficult the days become. I have a great deal of privilege and a greater responsibility to recognize what can and must be done from the place I hold in life. I only hope that I'm able to live up to the needs of this time, for the sake of Grayson, of the Compact, of Arx and Arvum.
And I will write here too, in hopes of Vellichor reading my prayer, with Lagoma reading over his shoulder: please let my brother be returned to me, and to all of us. We need him and I miss him, so very much.
Written By Jaenelle
Aug. 21, 2016, 1:25 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
I have taken it upon myself to find Valerius a watcher. For his own good, of course. I am worried that he will get himself into trouble, so as his older sister it is my job to make sure that does not happen. He can be very charming, which worries me as well! I have to pick someone that won't give into his whims each time he smiles and says something flattering to them. I can't tell you how many times that worked on me as a child, and like to think I am immune to him by now, though ... I like him to think he still is able to sway me so he thinks i'm the best older sister in the world. Which I am, of course. Valerius you owe me a present by the way. I'm writing that to keep as a historical memory so it happens and I don't forget when you try to wiggle your way out of it.
Written By Morrighan
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:57 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
Ferg may not be -that- bad of a person, I think he just might be the kind of man that's really difficult to try and get to know. Or talk to. Things were settled, much to my surprise, and I received a small present. No one has given me a gift before, to my recollection. It left me a little shocked, but the earrings are very pretty and has my favorite everythings. Now I just need to find a really good bottle of whiskey...
Written By Ida
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:44 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
Mistress Acacia Culler is someone Prince Edain mentioned my work to and we crossed paths at a couple of events I didn't avoid. She's quite good at engaging people, I've noticed, and can navigate socially far better than I think I ever will. It seems genuine, which maybe makes me naive, but I suppose I don't care if it does or doesn't. Her compliments of my work are beyond kind and she talks my wares up to other people, which has no doubt lead to work I might not otherwise have received. She's purchased from the shop and commissioned several things personally as well. I've really enjoyed speaking with her and we even got to chat for awhile in the shop over whiskey. I'm hoping to get involved in the Fight Club she is starting up and am excited about the whole endeavor - both for myself and her! She is one of the people I am most glad to have met here in Arx.
Written By Ida
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:35 p.m.(5/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Dawn of House Grayson - that's how her messengers come, so I assume she's not a princess or 'highness.' If she /is/, she's yet to correct me. Though the 'Lady' of the title probably means not. ANYhow, oaths, such a tangent. She sent word about a bow, and I admit that bows may be my favorite to craft. She sent far too much silver, but thankfully also decided to add some armor and a sword. Still, it was far too much silver for even all of that, so I tried to refine the weapons with what I had left. She seems like such a wonderful sort, even through the simple messenger exchanges, and generous to a near fault. Atop that, she left the color scheme for the items to me and I have to say, I think they may be my favorite mix of hues thus far.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.