Written By Adrienne
March 10, 2021, 7:57 a.m.(2/2/1015 AR)
On 1/31 Prince Giacomo Pravus arrived in the world, angry and impatient, aboard The Deviant en route from Setarco to Pieros. His namesake is the First Artist of House Pravus, commemorated in a statue in Arx's Gardens of Silken Delights. He is a winter child who has yet to see snow and for whom the world offers unlimited potential.
Harlequin Tanith Grayhope performed the delivery with the expertise her reputation promises. I thank her for her service.
Harlequin Tanith Grayhope performed the delivery with the expertise her reputation promises. I thank her for her service.
Written By Lianne
March 10, 2021, 2:28 a.m.(2/2/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Percephon
Percephon was one of my first and truest friends here in the capital. I still remember certain details of our first conversations, nearly a decade ago now, so vividly. Curiosities about colors before he made his terrible attempts at painting. Our contention before we settled into mutual respect. Our discussions about experiments. Our terrible trip up to the Red Mountains through the snow. All the metaphysical theory which followed.
He was one of the first to watch after me as I began my studies in earnest, always quick with a polished mirror and a keen question. He started the rumor of my beard. He married the woman who's become my dearest friend over the years. And he drifted away into his work as I retreated into mine.
It is a strange ache, to lose someone whose significance had dimmed, who held an important role in foundational years but had grown distance since. It feels so dull when I know how Khanne must hurt, how unique the grief which comes with the lose of one's beloved.
Still, that's three this month. Three people I'd known for nearly my entire time in Arx, three people who held particular places in my heart, dead or disappeared. And that on top of other losses.
If winter is to be a time of reaping, let spring bring growth to match.
He was one of the first to watch after me as I began my studies in earnest, always quick with a polished mirror and a keen question. He started the rumor of my beard. He married the woman who's become my dearest friend over the years. And he drifted away into his work as I retreated into mine.
It is a strange ache, to lose someone whose significance had dimmed, who held an important role in foundational years but had grown distance since. It feels so dull when I know how Khanne must hurt, how unique the grief which comes with the lose of one's beloved.
Still, that's three this month. Three people I'd known for nearly my entire time in Arx, three people who held particular places in my heart, dead or disappeared. And that on top of other losses.
If winter is to be a time of reaping, let spring bring growth to match.
Written By Bliss
March 9, 2021, 10:37 p.m.(2/2/1015 AR)
The right person has the job now. I honestly held it longer than I expected to, the mantle chafing like a badly tailored piece of mail -- and in all the worst places. I couldn't be happier to see it go to someone so deserving.
So what now? Well, we have a wonderful tradition of past Radiants settling down into married life, or finding their calling in diplomacy, being living embodiments of state. Maybe the second could be interesting, I don't know.
What I do know is the first thing I'm going to do is get drunk and get laid. Utmost importance, those. Everything else can fucking wait.
So what now? Well, we have a wonderful tradition of past Radiants settling down into married life, or finding their calling in diplomacy, being living embodiments of state. Maybe the second could be interesting, I don't know.
What I do know is the first thing I'm going to do is get drunk and get laid. Utmost importance, those. Everything else can fucking wait.
Written By Pasquale
March 9, 2021, 8:07 p.m.(2/1/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Maren
Maren Lir gave Sunaia and I a pair of Jade bangles as an early wedding gift along with a message so lovely I feel the need to share it with the entire world.
--
Remember that no matter where it is you go on land or sea, if you remember to navigate towards each other regardless of the storm, you will be able to face it with interwoven strength that would not be available to each of you alone. There will be times when you feel as if surely you will burn to ash in anger or drown in sorrow, but by choice you can rise from it more beautiful than before.
The jade here is strong and smooth and untouched, and each starts as a piece to mirror the other. Over time the color will shift as it is worn, and there will be marks and perhaps even chips made individually, first sharp but then smoothed over time. Though they may change in appearance, no longer identical, they are still carved from a single vein, and they are still two pieces of one whole, beautiful together and in how they diverge from one another and create a matching set that is uniquely yours.
Certainly you will face many challenges in these days remaining in the world, both from outside of yourselves, and between you. I know that you also have the courage, faith and strength to turn those marks of heart and spirit and body into a testament to what you will build together, your choice to weather what comes and polish it into greater brightness.
--
Remember that no matter where it is you go on land or sea, if you remember to navigate towards each other regardless of the storm, you will be able to face it with interwoven strength that would not be available to each of you alone. There will be times when you feel as if surely you will burn to ash in anger or drown in sorrow, but by choice you can rise from it more beautiful than before.
The jade here is strong and smooth and untouched, and each starts as a piece to mirror the other. Over time the color will shift as it is worn, and there will be marks and perhaps even chips made individually, first sharp but then smoothed over time. Though they may change in appearance, no longer identical, they are still carved from a single vein, and they are still two pieces of one whole, beautiful together and in how they diverge from one another and create a matching set that is uniquely yours.
Certainly you will face many challenges in these days remaining in the world, both from outside of yourselves, and between you. I know that you also have the courage, faith and strength to turn those marks of heart and spirit and body into a testament to what you will build together, your choice to weather what comes and polish it into greater brightness.
Written By Lucita
March 9, 2021, 6:42 p.m.(2/1/1015 AR)
A nest of bandits along the spur of the Great Road. Why am I not surprised? Now we have to deal with them.
Written By Corban
March 9, 2021, 4:26 p.m.(2/1/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Percephon
My cousin Percephon is gone from the world, and the Dream is poorer for it. A gentle soul and a dedicated scholar, he was my sounding board in times of greatest need. I hope I provided something similar for him, though I am neither as smart nor as clever as he was. Most of all, he was my family, and he was my friend, and my heart is heavy for his absence.
Great Queen of Beginnings and Endings, I pray that You welcome the unique and irreplaceable soul of Percephon Halfshav to your Wheel. May he, when it pleases You, return to us, and, if it does not, that he spend the rest of his days in Elysium surrounded by all the books that one man can ask for.
For me, I shall add a symbol of his glasses to my sash, in honor of his service rendered to Vellichor. As Silver's Arx endures, I will remember him.
Great Queen of Beginnings and Endings, I pray that You welcome the unique and irreplaceable soul of Percephon Halfshav to your Wheel. May he, when it pleases You, return to us, and, if it does not, that he spend the rest of his days in Elysium surrounded by all the books that one man can ask for.
For me, I shall add a symbol of his glasses to my sash, in honor of his service rendered to Vellichor. As Silver's Arx endures, I will remember him.
Written By Mikani
March 9, 2021, 11:09 a.m.(2/1/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
I finally did it! I crossed over to the dark side. In theory any way.
I distilled a whiskey. Yes scholar, someone from the Isles can make something other than Vodka or Rum. Yes, I know I'm known for my rums. Yes, I'm just as surprised as the rest of us.
It is a black whiskey. Made from aged blackwood casks. Everything about it screams "I am a Crovane Whiskey!" I should have a party to celebrate it. We need more parties in our lives.
Yes scholar, you can come. Everyone will be invited.
I have to give thanks to Lady Medeia Eswynd. Without her, I wouldn't know what to do with this stuff. It would just gather dust on a shelf. So thank you!
I distilled a whiskey. Yes scholar, someone from the Isles can make something other than Vodka or Rum. Yes, I know I'm known for my rums. Yes, I'm just as surprised as the rest of us.
It is a black whiskey. Made from aged blackwood casks. Everything about it screams "I am a Crovane Whiskey!" I should have a party to celebrate it. We need more parties in our lives.
Yes scholar, you can come. Everyone will be invited.
I have to give thanks to Lady Medeia Eswynd. Without her, I wouldn't know what to do with this stuff. It would just gather dust on a shelf. So thank you!
Written By Victus
March 9, 2021, 3 a.m.(1/28/1015 AR)
I had an idea for a chariot brimming with spikes. In retrospect, perhaps this would not have been very sporting. Luckily, it never evolved past a conceptual stage.
Unluckily, I have several shards of metal to dispose of before the children find them.
Unluckily, I have several shards of metal to dispose of before the children find them.
Written By Isabeau
March 9, 2021, 1:14 a.m.(1/28/1015 AR)
I have been removed from the social circles of Arx, and certain responsibilities for some time, so that I might focus on the rearing of our beloved daughter, Sophia. She is growing so fast, and I can hardly believe it has been almost four years since she was born. She has grown into quite an inquisitive thing, toddling around here and there, wanting to know all there is about the world. Her imagination amazes me at times, and it is curious to watch how she grows and learns. I cannot help but marvel, still: We made a tiny person. And she is becoming more so each day; an independent, inquisitive, imaginative little person. It is such a delicate time in a child's development, I felt that I must devote more time to her growth and burgeoning curiosity of the world. She enjoys the stories of knights and chivalry, but also the more fantastic tales of mythical creatures. She can find wonder in the smallest of things, and make up stories about them that sometimes amaze me. I have begun to keep a small journal of the stories she comes up with, and one day, when she is older, I will show it to her. I am sure she will laugh at some of the silliness of it all. It certainly brings me joy.
Now, however, I feel the pull of duty once again as the Compact faces its challenges, and so I must find a balance between the rearing of the Heir to the Telmarch, and the duties I can no longer set aside. I left her in the care of Elaine as I ventured out this afternoon into the snow, to tend to some matters. While out and about in the city, I paused by the Ambassador Salon which, apparently, has gone somewhat out of fashion, for reasons I do not know. Still, many came and went, and conversations were shared. It was pleasant to be among my peers once again, and to share in a drink and a laugh.
I look forward to returning to the social scene, to offer what help I may in these trying times.
Now, however, I feel the pull of duty once again as the Compact faces its challenges, and so I must find a balance between the rearing of the Heir to the Telmarch, and the duties I can no longer set aside. I left her in the care of Elaine as I ventured out this afternoon into the snow, to tend to some matters. While out and about in the city, I paused by the Ambassador Salon which, apparently, has gone somewhat out of fashion, for reasons I do not know. Still, many came and went, and conversations were shared. It was pleasant to be among my peers once again, and to share in a drink and a laugh.
I look forward to returning to the social scene, to offer what help I may in these trying times.
Written By Medeia
March 9, 2021, 1:12 a.m.(1/28/1015 AR)
Scholar, I once again find myself with far too many things to record in such a short period of time. I shall try to focus on the positives.
Haakon returned home from the battle aiding House Leporidae unscathed and having lost none of Eswynd's longships. Further? The combined efforts of all who were involved resulted in victory. While I have already had wonderful personal ties to some of the people of Tremorous and Sangris, it is my hope that this is the foundation for strong alliances. I also heard that my time providing medical training to Leporidae's Myrmidons helped save lives.
In the wake of that battle, when the ships came to port, I was on shift at Saving Grace and had to send out emergency summons to attend to the more grievously wounded who needed care they could not get in the field. I am relieved to say that all will recover in time. My heart absolutely dropped seeing Zakhar - my husband's protege, Savio, and Lord Orland brought in. By the gods, I was blessed with answers to my summons that helped me ensure all our patients stabilized and are able to return to their loved ones. My gratitude goes to Lady Thea and Lady Cecelia, Sister Giada and Brother Aelgar, Physician Oswyn and Apothecary Ksenia.
The following day, I had the delight of speaking with Lady Cecilia about having her join the Physicians Guild - we were of the same mind, Scholar, she had come to speak to me on it when I asked her about it. She even asked if she might train with me! I am honored by the trust she has in me.
I have also recently found myself gifted with the friendship of Lady Zoey - in fact, many a Kennex has joined the table for a meal at Eswyndol as of late. I am glad of it. However, Lady Zoey has been a compassionate and comforting ear in the wake of loss, and being asked to be her midwife - being asked to be anyone's midwife - is an honor. We have shared in conversation over difficult topics and found similar thoughts, curiosities, hopes, and goals. And then she asked if I would consider being a tutor to young Lord Uriel. I am excited to add him to my growing list of students.
After a surprising conversation with Ilira Whisper recently, she wrote me and asked if I might speak with her again. She was one of the first people I met when I arrived in Arx, and so it is nice to still have some of those longer connections. When we met, she left me stunned by her gracious gift - a dress of honeysilk dyed to match the mossy and earthen shades of color in my eyes. Such kindness is a beautiful thing to see (and perhaps I shall find a chance to wear it soon, backless though it may be).
I learned my cousin Volya has come to the city, and while I was only able to see him in passing last week, it was a joy to have him visit the house and meet both my husband and my protege. It is strange, how life's circumstances play out - each thinking the other dead, and now occupying the other's birth fealty. Even so, he still has that fantastic sense of humor (and remembers far too many of the nicknames he once had for me). I never did get to ask him about the shirt business I keep seeing mentioned in other journals. A topic for the next visit.
At the same time, Nijah was visiting. She is marvelous. When people think of wanting a protege, I bet they think of having one like her. I was so concerned when we first met, and she expressed interest in discussing a patronage relationship, that she would come to regret the choice. But if she has had any complaints of me, I have not heard a hint of them. The last several months she has been exceptionally busy fulfilling her duties to Whisper house, yet still found the time to assist me every few weeks with some trade tasks. There are other projects in the works that I can't share just yet that he has been instrumental in ensuring success as well. And so it was with much elation and pride that I celebrate her as Nijah Whisper, no longer an apprentice. She should be seeking out a more prestigious patron, but I have been assured she sees no reason to change the nature of our relationship. She is an asset to the Whispers, the city, and a light in my own life.
There is good happening all around us. Even in these heavy times. Take comfort in it. Embrace it. Let it fill up your heart so that you have a shield from the darkness. If that fails, I can possibly lend you an Eswynd warrior - they're excellent at fending off unwanted things.
Haakon returned home from the battle aiding House Leporidae unscathed and having lost none of Eswynd's longships. Further? The combined efforts of all who were involved resulted in victory. While I have already had wonderful personal ties to some of the people of Tremorous and Sangris, it is my hope that this is the foundation for strong alliances. I also heard that my time providing medical training to Leporidae's Myrmidons helped save lives.
In the wake of that battle, when the ships came to port, I was on shift at Saving Grace and had to send out emergency summons to attend to the more grievously wounded who needed care they could not get in the field. I am relieved to say that all will recover in time. My heart absolutely dropped seeing Zakhar - my husband's protege, Savio, and Lord Orland brought in. By the gods, I was blessed with answers to my summons that helped me ensure all our patients stabilized and are able to return to their loved ones. My gratitude goes to Lady Thea and Lady Cecelia, Sister Giada and Brother Aelgar, Physician Oswyn and Apothecary Ksenia.
The following day, I had the delight of speaking with Lady Cecilia about having her join the Physicians Guild - we were of the same mind, Scholar, she had come to speak to me on it when I asked her about it. She even asked if she might train with me! I am honored by the trust she has in me.
I have also recently found myself gifted with the friendship of Lady Zoey - in fact, many a Kennex has joined the table for a meal at Eswyndol as of late. I am glad of it. However, Lady Zoey has been a compassionate and comforting ear in the wake of loss, and being asked to be her midwife - being asked to be anyone's midwife - is an honor. We have shared in conversation over difficult topics and found similar thoughts, curiosities, hopes, and goals. And then she asked if I would consider being a tutor to young Lord Uriel. I am excited to add him to my growing list of students.
After a surprising conversation with Ilira Whisper recently, she wrote me and asked if I might speak with her again. She was one of the first people I met when I arrived in Arx, and so it is nice to still have some of those longer connections. When we met, she left me stunned by her gracious gift - a dress of honeysilk dyed to match the mossy and earthen shades of color in my eyes. Such kindness is a beautiful thing to see (and perhaps I shall find a chance to wear it soon, backless though it may be).
I learned my cousin Volya has come to the city, and while I was only able to see him in passing last week, it was a joy to have him visit the house and meet both my husband and my protege. It is strange, how life's circumstances play out - each thinking the other dead, and now occupying the other's birth fealty. Even so, he still has that fantastic sense of humor (and remembers far too many of the nicknames he once had for me). I never did get to ask him about the shirt business I keep seeing mentioned in other journals. A topic for the next visit.
At the same time, Nijah was visiting. She is marvelous. When people think of wanting a protege, I bet they think of having one like her. I was so concerned when we first met, and she expressed interest in discussing a patronage relationship, that she would come to regret the choice. But if she has had any complaints of me, I have not heard a hint of them. The last several months she has been exceptionally busy fulfilling her duties to Whisper house, yet still found the time to assist me every few weeks with some trade tasks. There are other projects in the works that I can't share just yet that he has been instrumental in ensuring success as well. And so it was with much elation and pride that I celebrate her as Nijah Whisper, no longer an apprentice. She should be seeking out a more prestigious patron, but I have been assured she sees no reason to change the nature of our relationship. She is an asset to the Whispers, the city, and a light in my own life.
There is good happening all around us. Even in these heavy times. Take comfort in it. Embrace it. Let it fill up your heart so that you have a shield from the darkness. If that fails, I can possibly lend you an Eswynd warrior - they're excellent at fending off unwanted things.
Written By Aine
March 8, 2021, 10:34 p.m.(1/28/1015 AR)
The world is a funny place... You can work towards a goal your whole life, everything you do, waiting to reach that cusp and then you are so close... and everything changes. All that you wanted, is exactly what you don't. I love that nothing is really constant. Things always change, whether we hold on tightly, or let go, most of life is beyond us. Even when we convince ourselves it can be, it is not. There is a strange comfort in that, much like a hot drink on a cold day. The storm is still out there, but a moment of calm warmth, can make all the difference...
Written By Rey
March 8, 2021, 9:36 p.m.(1/28/1015 AR)
I went home for a while to look for answers. I found none.
Now I am back in Arx for...I don't know what. I'm sure it will come to me though.
Now I am back in Arx for...I don't know what. I'm sure it will come to me though.
Written By Piccola
March 8, 2021, 8:46 p.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
A woman's whole life is a succession of moments.
There is nothing other than the single purpose of the present. If one fully understands it, there will be nothing else to do or pursue. Live being true to that single purpose.
Everyone lets the present slip by, then looks for it as though it were somewhere else.
There is nothing other than the single purpose of the present. If one fully understands it, there will be nothing else to do or pursue. Live being true to that single purpose.
Everyone lets the present slip by, then looks for it as though it were somewhere else.
Written By Savio
March 8, 2021, 6:24 p.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
Nothing can be perfect, though we so vainly try
In every clever masterpiece, a detail gone awry
Words that slipped their meaning, although they were so near
Paints with muddied colors, when at first it seemed so clear
We chase and chase perfection, a place we fail to find
Whispers of its temptation echo cruelly in our minds
And there within lies madness, all that we can't repair
The errors in the artistry, addictive sweet despair
The flawless work is just a dream, transcendent, out of reach
Yet our hands unfailing reach out for that sweet mirage we seek
Every creator feels it, that anguish as we strive
The peace is in the knowledge that we never will arrive.
In every clever masterpiece, a detail gone awry
Words that slipped their meaning, although they were so near
Paints with muddied colors, when at first it seemed so clear
We chase and chase perfection, a place we fail to find
Whispers of its temptation echo cruelly in our minds
And there within lies madness, all that we can't repair
The errors in the artistry, addictive sweet despair
The flawless work is just a dream, transcendent, out of reach
Yet our hands unfailing reach out for that sweet mirage we seek
Every creator feels it, that anguish as we strive
The peace is in the knowledge that we never will arrive.
Written By Baldessare
March 8, 2021, 3:41 p.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
What to say on my return to Arx? Certainly, my time away has given me a new perspective, a necessary distance to reflect. Yet, one cannot reflect too long. I feel that I am approaching a point of action. Certainly, I must attend to my affairs at the Academy of War. I feel that my time there is more critical than ever. But what else?
Written By Tila
March 8, 2021, 3:29 p.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
I met Lady Kiera Wyvernheart today. She has just returned from a thrilling adventure seeking healing stones. She seems like a wonderful person to spend time around and must have hours of stories about her travels and studies. I look forward to spending more time with her in the future. Maybe I will go on one of those adventures some day.
Written By Deva
March 8, 2021, 2:22 p.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Lianne
Sometimes a very needed perspective arrives exactly when you need it. The Marquessa is thoughtful and so very wise, with priceless insights that have made such a difference in my life already. Thank you.
Written By Jael
March 8, 2021, 11:07 a.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
When I asked Rupert where my brother was, and he told me he was at the chariot race, I didn't know he meant that he was actually going to be participating.
But he won, so I can't be too annoyed.
But he won, so I can't be too annoyed.
Written By Claude
March 8, 2021, 9:21 a.m.(1/27/1015 AR)
For the first time in many months I have completed a work of art that was not a cabinet or a chair. I felt deeply inspired to create the sculpture and while I am pleased with the outcome, it is hard to judge one's own work fairly. I have left it on the floor of my showroom at Out of the Woods for now as a contrast to my furniture. In the meantime I shall search for a place to donate it to, should they share the values it espouses and find it aesthetically pleasing.
Written By Anisha
March 8, 2021, 4:25 a.m.(1/26/1015 AR)
While I can't say it's been a lifelong dream to become Radiant, it has been something on my mind ever since I stepped into the halls of the Whisper House in Setarco.
Now, I find that the title is mine, and I do FEEL radiant - suffused from within by a glow of contentment. I was ecstatic to hear that I'd been nominated by Radiant Emeritus Bliss, and even more so to hear I was elected by acclaim. But happiness comes in moments, and comfort and contentment is the warmth that such moments leave behind. Our lives can be traced in the stars of the sky, each one a heartbeat of joy, and our work is in tracing the path.
I wax poetic, scholar, I apologise.
I am Radiant Anisha Whisper. And I am thankful to the Radiants Emeritus, and to all my siblings at Whisper House for the faith they have shown in me. Now it is time to prove worthy of their faith.
After I celebrate with a bottle and some special people.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.