Written By Cesare
June 13, 2021, 2:01 p.m.(8/25/1015 AR)
What a week it's been. Week? More than that, I think. I hardly know where to start. When I joked in my last White about having something more eventful to report, I didn't anticipate so much upheaval, although again, very little of it is fit to share here. I feel as if I've aged a year in about a month, although you wouldn't know it to look at me. Just that I've been in the sun - several kind people have asked me if I've perhaps been on a vacation, or enjoying the beach.
Our aid mission to Tremorus was as successful as I believe it could have been, given the circumstances. It was painful to see such a proud and vibrant people struggling in the ruins of a city which was so clearly a beautiful and treasured jewel. It was painful to watch conflict between Arvani aid workers and native Arakkoans, two groups of people ostensibly on the same side, but with mutual displeasure about the circumstance which had brought them together. I did my best to smooth over the tensions - it became a matter of necessity when a terrible storm arose and we were forced to evacuate our makeshift shelter for a cavern further upmountain. In any case I believe I've gotten a better handle on what the Arakkoans - and by extension, the residents of the Saffron Chain in general - expect as part of the Compact, and what value they bring to us as a whole people working together. I'm sure some will balk at that statement, at the idea that these new vassals have expectations at all, but if our choice is to tighten our fists rather than extending open hands, opportunity, safety, and strength will only slip through our fingers, leaving us open to the tender mercies of foes who are all-too-ready to see us brought low. Better to bend a little than to break entirely. (Of course a Whisper would say that, you're thinking.)
I fear the city looked worse when we left than it did when we arrived. The storm destroyed a number of structures which were on the verge of collapse already. But at least the people have food, supplies, and medical aid. I'll return again, if asked. Perhaps with a sun hat.
As if that weren't enough, I've also been attending my usual roster of events in Arx on either side of that jaunt to the south. Lady Medeia's poetry event was a pleasure. Such erudite company! And she always has the best refreshments. My internal rhyme of the day: Saik wine, so divine. If I could, I'd drink it all the time. And of course Lady Medeia herself is always the most gracious of hostesses, and nobody even drowned. I also had the pleasure of providing musical entertainment at Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius' dance aboard his ship this past evening, which was a rollicking good time and left my fingers quite tired. Never have I seen guests (or host) so eager to prove me wrong that Setarcans have the fastest of feet. We do, but I wasn't able to cement my claim as I was busy playing, so Evaristo took that title for the evening, though Marquessa Demura Lyonesse certainly put up a very solid effort. Impressive!
A final note: I've found myself patronless. I am in no great hurry to secure another, and won't be placing a classified ad for that particular reason, but anyone who is interested in a rather lackadaisical protege with entirely too much on his plate and little to offer other than charming company and social connections may send a missive. I promise precisely nothing in return.
Our aid mission to Tremorus was as successful as I believe it could have been, given the circumstances. It was painful to see such a proud and vibrant people struggling in the ruins of a city which was so clearly a beautiful and treasured jewel. It was painful to watch conflict between Arvani aid workers and native Arakkoans, two groups of people ostensibly on the same side, but with mutual displeasure about the circumstance which had brought them together. I did my best to smooth over the tensions - it became a matter of necessity when a terrible storm arose and we were forced to evacuate our makeshift shelter for a cavern further upmountain. In any case I believe I've gotten a better handle on what the Arakkoans - and by extension, the residents of the Saffron Chain in general - expect as part of the Compact, and what value they bring to us as a whole people working together. I'm sure some will balk at that statement, at the idea that these new vassals have expectations at all, but if our choice is to tighten our fists rather than extending open hands, opportunity, safety, and strength will only slip through our fingers, leaving us open to the tender mercies of foes who are all-too-ready to see us brought low. Better to bend a little than to break entirely. (Of course a Whisper would say that, you're thinking.)
I fear the city looked worse when we left than it did when we arrived. The storm destroyed a number of structures which were on the verge of collapse already. But at least the people have food, supplies, and medical aid. I'll return again, if asked. Perhaps with a sun hat.
As if that weren't enough, I've also been attending my usual roster of events in Arx on either side of that jaunt to the south. Lady Medeia's poetry event was a pleasure. Such erudite company! And she always has the best refreshments. My internal rhyme of the day: Saik wine, so divine. If I could, I'd drink it all the time. And of course Lady Medeia herself is always the most gracious of hostesses, and nobody even drowned. I also had the pleasure of providing musical entertainment at Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius' dance aboard his ship this past evening, which was a rollicking good time and left my fingers quite tired. Never have I seen guests (or host) so eager to prove me wrong that Setarcans have the fastest of feet. We do, but I wasn't able to cement my claim as I was busy playing, so Evaristo took that title for the evening, though Marquessa Demura Lyonesse certainly put up a very solid effort. Impressive!
A final note: I've found myself patronless. I am in no great hurry to secure another, and won't be placing a classified ad for that particular reason, but anyone who is interested in a rather lackadaisical protege with entirely too much on his plate and little to offer other than charming company and social connections may send a missive. I promise precisely nothing in return.
Written By Romulius
June 13, 2021, 12:26 p.m.(8/25/1015 AR)
Our Compact has no shortage of talented shipwrights.
We have mastered the efficient construction and fielding of diverse, versatile fleets. We have proven our dominance at sea recently, and the evidence of our ability rests on the seafloor of the Bay of Pieros. The blessings of Jayus and Mangata are plenty on our ships, and our sailors manage the vessels expertly.
We are not perfect, however, and there are aspects of the craft in which other peoples in our world undeniably surpass our ability. We possess skilled hands and sharp minds, but the Compact falls behind in naval innovations, too often unwilling to break from the traditional methods to experiment with those of our neighbors or to boldly venture where others have not before.
We have fallen victim to this sort of complacency before, and we have always managed to correct it and strengthen our Compact. I have no doubt we will do the same in this arena, as well.
We have mastered the efficient construction and fielding of diverse, versatile fleets. We have proven our dominance at sea recently, and the evidence of our ability rests on the seafloor of the Bay of Pieros. The blessings of Jayus and Mangata are plenty on our ships, and our sailors manage the vessels expertly.
We are not perfect, however, and there are aspects of the craft in which other peoples in our world undeniably surpass our ability. We possess skilled hands and sharp minds, but the Compact falls behind in naval innovations, too often unwilling to break from the traditional methods to experiment with those of our neighbors or to boldly venture where others have not before.
We have fallen victim to this sort of complacency before, and we have always managed to correct it and strengthen our Compact. I have no doubt we will do the same in this arena, as well.
Written By Deva
June 13, 2021, 11:45 a.m.(8/25/1015 AR)
It's hard to stay when you know what some of the possibilities are, and the unknowns are just as -- if not more -- exciting.
Written By Cristoph
June 13, 2021, 11:02 a.m.(8/24/1015 AR)
If anyone was curious, a shovel is a rather poor replacement for a paddle.
Written By Viviana
June 13, 2021, 9:43 a.m.(8/24/1015 AR)
What do we consider moral?
Written By Claude
June 13, 2021, 9:41 a.m.(8/24/1015 AR)
I had a guest in my shop, a very kind young noblewoman. I offered her a drink while we discussed a certain matter. Little did I know she was a... no no, privacy must be maintained. Suffice it to say she was no stranger to fine liquors. What I served her was not fine, nor can I say with complete certainly that it was liquor. I do not drink whiskey at work or in the shop but maintain a small stock for guests. I gave my apprentice a pouch of silver and a list of things to stock the cabinet with. I am not entirely convinced he didn't swap the whiskey from the jug (the jug was indeed marked as whiskey) with some of the paint strippers from the back. To her credit, the noblewoman was incredibly gracious about the entire affair but I feel the damage was done.
In any event, swearing to never have a repeat performance I set out to stock the small pantry myself. I found myself in the shop of one Bonibel Barleycorn, an apothecary but more importantly a brewer. She introduced me to her latest creation, a summertime brandy called The Amber Smith's Reserve. Words penned here can never do it justice. It must be experienced to be believed.
In any event, swearing to never have a repeat performance I set out to stock the small pantry myself. I found myself in the shop of one Bonibel Barleycorn, an apothecary but more importantly a brewer. She introduced me to her latest creation, a summertime brandy called The Amber Smith's Reserve. Words penned here can never do it justice. It must be experienced to be believed.
Written By Giada
June 13, 2021, 8:52 a.m.(8/24/1015 AR)
If you hold a darkly dyed sheet of parchment against the sun, it would seem that the sun has no significance in that moment.
But consider this. A pinhole in the parchment is a source of light. Now, if the parchment is our perception of reality, our understanding of the Dream, what -is- the pinhole?
Us.
Every one of us is an aperture through which the Dream peeks. To honour this grace, there comes with it responsibilities, dues owed and paid with action.
Take stock. What is your place within the Dream? What does it cost you to be faithful? How much will you grow, stretch, mature?
But consider this. A pinhole in the parchment is a source of light. Now, if the parchment is our perception of reality, our understanding of the Dream, what -is- the pinhole?
Us.
Every one of us is an aperture through which the Dream peeks. To honour this grace, there comes with it responsibilities, dues owed and paid with action.
Take stock. What is your place within the Dream? What does it cost you to be faithful? How much will you grow, stretch, mature?
Written By Margot
June 13, 2021, 2:42 a.m.(8/24/1015 AR)
While so many play against each other they fail to understand how they are connected.
Written By Cambria
June 12, 2021, 9:58 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
When those you hold in high regard disappoint you, it is not so much that they have failed you in some way, only that your expectations of them were unreasonable in the first place.
Written By Kiera
June 12, 2021, 9:48 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
And how does one top off a week like that. With another entertaining dinner at Sanna manor. One never knows quite to expect, aside from the fact that there will always be hospitality and good food. This time the surprise was a disply of showmanship by the Carmine kirves, the Marquis' personal guard in close quarters combat an impressive display to say the least and a reminder that one does better to make a friend of the sannas than an enemy. i have no worries there. In fact, my worry is the opposite. I am fond of the marquis and have taken to teasing him as if he were family. I fear that others may find me too familiar or get the impression I have a glib tongue but i simply feel joy from our friendship
Written By Rosalind
June 12, 2021, 9:34 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
I feel another trip on the horizon! Deep in my bones! I'm getting restless again, no good ever happens. Ever.
Written By Kiera
June 12, 2021, 9:32 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
I did however participate in the valardin boar hunt. At least, I rode along during the hunt and got knocked from my horse when a boar sideswiped it. does that count as participation. My sore ribs say it does. But lest there be any doubt on that score I definitely participated in the sumptuous feast that bore the fruits of the hunters labor hosted by my patron Duchess Isabeau Telmar and Duke Cristoph Laurent with foods prepared Lady Mabelle. The company was delightful and we even snuck in a bit of business as talk turned to trade opportunities
Written By Kiera
June 12, 2021, 9:20 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
This week was the week for witnessing extradinary feats of skill and courage, though i did not realize it at the outset. first up was a run of telmar's gauntlet. Many brave souls came forward to attempt the test of skill. Some excelled while the course proved too much for othes. My brother Drake had a very strong start but ultemately took fourth place behinnd Lady Shyanne Eswynd, lady Adalyn Clement and Prince Raimon Thrax. His highness gave a very impressive showing for his first gauntlet, but I was quite impressed with evenne who copeted even moreso but those who were clearly struggling at the end for having the determination to finish. this is a feat i doubt i shall ever attempt
Written By Haakon
June 12, 2021, 8:03 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
Culling shipping in and about a chain of Abandoned isles in the northern Mourning Sea. Will be at sea more over the next few weeks, hunting.
Since it's against Law to treat with the Abandoned, I don't expect any good Arvani folk will be caught in the process. Still, if folk have smugglers they're fond of, best bid them steer well clear of the Lang Drager.
Since it's against Law to treat with the Abandoned, I don't expect any good Arvani folk will be caught in the process. Still, if folk have smugglers they're fond of, best bid them steer well clear of the Lang Drager.
Written By Gael
June 12, 2021, 7:01 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
Another pitiless day, scholar.
Tonight a sellsword of mine, Friede, came sprinting into my tent while we were outside in the woods going through formations with the company, nearly taking out one of the stakes and bringing the whole damn thing down. Sweat flew off of her face and onto my maps, damage I'm still circumventing to avoid crumpling the vellum but, either way, it's a good thing she did. She explained that two of the hedge knights we've got on the Few's vanguard were about to kill each other; Dame Yvette and Sir Duncan.
Having the two largest people in the company do battle probably wasn't best for the health of, well, everyone. So I quickly rushed to the scene.
Sure enough, I found Duncan with a great sword in hand and Yvette twirling a giant axe around like a child would a stick. Most everyone cleared out from the would-be duel, and apparently, I came to learn only then that they had met in different sides of some conflict, and now looked to continue a battle long past. Golems of might and terror that they were, I decided it had to end. They weren't going to fight. Or kill each other, for that matter. Easier said than done.
Having seen enough, I ordered the spectating sellswords to intervene. They hesitated, but I quickly reminded them of their contractual duties. Then they went and grabbed great tarps of leather and blankets and some pots and pans and a few even carried pails along. Their strategy was oddly sound: buckets were slammed over the heads of both knight and dame as they tussled on the ground, blinding them just long enough to throw everything else over them. As a man would wrestle a bull, the sellswords tangled with the feuding idiots, occasionally one being thrown in the air, and one sellsword even ate a kick to the face, suffering a black-gapped smile for her troubles. Another was swallowed up in the mass of blankets, being smashed in between the growling killers like an amorphous blob of anger.
Eventually, the two warriors cooled down and begrudgingly made peace. The rest of the company who fought hard to separate them recovered, picking themselves up as though a great tornado had just torn through the camp. That was that.
What have I gotten myself into, Scholar?
Shard can't come back fast enough.
I'm not cut out for this.
Tonight a sellsword of mine, Friede, came sprinting into my tent while we were outside in the woods going through formations with the company, nearly taking out one of the stakes and bringing the whole damn thing down. Sweat flew off of her face and onto my maps, damage I'm still circumventing to avoid crumpling the vellum but, either way, it's a good thing she did. She explained that two of the hedge knights we've got on the Few's vanguard were about to kill each other; Dame Yvette and Sir Duncan.
Having the two largest people in the company do battle probably wasn't best for the health of, well, everyone. So I quickly rushed to the scene.
Sure enough, I found Duncan with a great sword in hand and Yvette twirling a giant axe around like a child would a stick. Most everyone cleared out from the would-be duel, and apparently, I came to learn only then that they had met in different sides of some conflict, and now looked to continue a battle long past. Golems of might and terror that they were, I decided it had to end. They weren't going to fight. Or kill each other, for that matter. Easier said than done.
Having seen enough, I ordered the spectating sellswords to intervene. They hesitated, but I quickly reminded them of their contractual duties. Then they went and grabbed great tarps of leather and blankets and some pots and pans and a few even carried pails along. Their strategy was oddly sound: buckets were slammed over the heads of both knight and dame as they tussled on the ground, blinding them just long enough to throw everything else over them. As a man would wrestle a bull, the sellswords tangled with the feuding idiots, occasionally one being thrown in the air, and one sellsword even ate a kick to the face, suffering a black-gapped smile for her troubles. Another was swallowed up in the mass of blankets, being smashed in between the growling killers like an amorphous blob of anger.
Eventually, the two warriors cooled down and begrudgingly made peace. The rest of the company who fought hard to separate them recovered, picking themselves up as though a great tornado had just torn through the camp. That was that.
What have I gotten myself into, Scholar?
Shard can't come back fast enough.
I'm not cut out for this.
Written By Aconite
June 12, 2021, 5:46 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
I do love to dance, a real dance just wine, music and laughter. I lose myself in it. I might have twisted my ankle a little but I still couldn't help myself.
Written By Bonibel
June 12, 2021, 5:31 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
Future Reminder: There is a good reason not to go diving into deep mysterious holes. Ouch.
Written By Zakhar
June 12, 2021, 5:31 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Raimon
Words chosen for a poem, one must always remember that they have more meaning and can be dangerous from which lips they flow.
for which ever direction they might develop, whether for devotee or one seeking out what is beyond the view at hand.
Dancers are everywhere. They enjoy silks more than leathers.
Are you ready for a colorless world view? Or shall you paint what is provided?
for which ever direction they might develop, whether for devotee or one seeking out what is beyond the view at hand.
Dancers are everywhere. They enjoy silks more than leathers.
Are you ready for a colorless world view? Or shall you paint what is provided?
Written By Kace
June 12, 2021, 4:15 p.m.(8/23/1015 AR)
My companion, Trig, is starting to get older. I might think about getting him a puppy as a playmate. I'm sure that'll do him good. I haven't had a dog more loyal then Trig. I can't imagine my life without him when his time comes.
Written By Aelgar
June 12, 2021, 10:27 a.m.(8/22/1015 AR)
I continue to get ready for a more active role in the defense of the Compact. I have been accepted into a scouting party and I am preparing to join the Explorers. In the end, I hope to be able to dispatch to problem spots are detected so that I can be available to help block any advances by the enemy early in their process. Whether I will be of any use or not remains to be seen, but the concept that we are supposed to put the knowledge to use in order to stop that which we opose seems to me best served By having Scholars at the forefront.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.