Written By Sedna
Feb. 22, 2021, 9:25 p.m.(12/28/1014 AR)
My heart goes out to those in mourning. It feels as though loss nips at our heels, now. My mind keeps returning to the moment just before Ember, Zoya, and I were forced to leap off those cliffs. Everything seemed to slow and for a breath, I thought for sure we would meet our end in the crashing waves. I wonder if that's the sensation my own husband felt in his final moments.
I can't bring myself to return to the monotony of everyday life just yet. I don't know if there ever really is a true return after things like that.
I have this great big sea bird to courier news back and forth from the Shores. He's so beautiful out over the water. Every time he makes landfall here, he just looks like a terrible floppy mess with his flat feet and enormous wings too big for him to walk, just teetering around.
I don't know whose comfort I write home for more, his or mine.
I can't bring myself to return to the monotony of everyday life just yet. I don't know if there ever really is a true return after things like that.
I have this great big sea bird to courier news back and forth from the Shores. He's so beautiful out over the water. Every time he makes landfall here, he just looks like a terrible floppy mess with his flat feet and enormous wings too big for him to walk, just teetering around.
I don't know whose comfort I write home for more, his or mine.
Written By Piccola
Feb. 22, 2021, 8:04 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
Today, a friend of mine told me that the path of vengeance is not justice, but anger and emotion made raw and bleeding. I disagree.
Revenge is a pleasure reserved for the patient and measured; to forget humiliation and outrage is debasement and cowardice. Delivering the just deserts to those who have done wrong brings a cold satisfaction not unlike standing naked upon a lover's balcony or basking in her warmth and taste. And while such reward may not come with the immediacy of a fire after lightning, it assuredly follows as the winter does autumn. The rationale underpinning forgiveness is right and just, but it equally serves no purpose to either forgive or forget.
I tell you, wise general: the memories of my past hone me now.
In some ways, I am glad our enemies are so honest and pleasant with us. For their several surprises and pains, we may thank them in kind in the purity of our purpose, presence, and punishment. When we matched wits upon the fields of war, we will continue to play until we are at the borders of their realms; then, we shall proceed, in full remembrance of those loved and lost, until their fortresses crumble and their bodies burn upon pyres. If they wish a war, so be it: they have in the Compact a match which shall bring them to beg for merciful surrender.
We will chasten their godlessness with our blades.
Let them know: we are young and may have never valued our land. Perhaps, to them, we have lived and given ourselves to barbarous license; this is common among people who are merry and blessed. But to the Apostate and the False King, our King shall show our greatness when we march across our borders into the Dune Kingdoms, and rise there with so full a glory that thralls' eyes shall be dazzled to the truth, and strike blind those who defy the Gods' will.
They have turned uncertainty to courage and fear to anger.
Revenge is a pleasure reserved for the patient and measured; to forget humiliation and outrage is debasement and cowardice. Delivering the just deserts to those who have done wrong brings a cold satisfaction not unlike standing naked upon a lover's balcony or basking in her warmth and taste. And while such reward may not come with the immediacy of a fire after lightning, it assuredly follows as the winter does autumn. The rationale underpinning forgiveness is right and just, but it equally serves no purpose to either forgive or forget.
I tell you, wise general: the memories of my past hone me now.
In some ways, I am glad our enemies are so honest and pleasant with us. For their several surprises and pains, we may thank them in kind in the purity of our purpose, presence, and punishment. When we matched wits upon the fields of war, we will continue to play until we are at the borders of their realms; then, we shall proceed, in full remembrance of those loved and lost, until their fortresses crumble and their bodies burn upon pyres. If they wish a war, so be it: they have in the Compact a match which shall bring them to beg for merciful surrender.
We will chasten their godlessness with our blades.
Let them know: we are young and may have never valued our land. Perhaps, to them, we have lived and given ourselves to barbarous license; this is common among people who are merry and blessed. But to the Apostate and the False King, our King shall show our greatness when we march across our borders into the Dune Kingdoms, and rise there with so full a glory that thralls' eyes shall be dazzled to the truth, and strike blind those who defy the Gods' will.
They have turned uncertainty to courage and fear to anger.
Written By Delilah
Feb. 22, 2021, 7:32 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
I have no words.
For what words contain the horror done?
What wretched impulse guides a wicked blade?
What cruelty informs a stunning fiat against order and kindness?
We could weep. Indeed, may we rage, seized by wrath.
The hour is not done. The tears, though falling, do not signal a hope dead, a dream spent.
It will not bring back my dearest friend. It will not send her winging on prayers and hopes and smiles into Death's sweet embrace any faster.
But I vow not revenge, but to live /well/.
For what words contain the horror done?
What wretched impulse guides a wicked blade?
What cruelty informs a stunning fiat against order and kindness?
We could weep. Indeed, may we rage, seized by wrath.
The hour is not done. The tears, though falling, do not signal a hope dead, a dream spent.
It will not bring back my dearest friend. It will not send her winging on prayers and hopes and smiles into Death's sweet embrace any faster.
But I vow not revenge, but to live /well/.
Written By Lianne
Feb. 22, 2021, 5:24 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
The last time Archscholar Sina and I spoke at length, I left her company wondering how different my life might've been if she'd held that position when I was nearing the end of my pursuit for Discipleship. Attentive and warm, hers was an easy lead to follow.
We had so much more left to discuss, so much left to do. Some of the threads were mere curiosity that need no immediate tending, but one, at least, demands further action. I hope I'm able to find something worthwhile to do with it.
We had so much more left to discuss, so much left to do. Some of the threads were mere curiosity that need no immediate tending, but one, at least, demands further action. I hope I'm able to find something worthwhile to do with it.
Written By Taliene
Feb. 22, 2021, 4:23 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
The Princess Liara is beyond generous with her friendly welcome -- and generous with sharing her wisdom, too, which I will take to heart. And pastries! Arx is rather overwhelming to a newcomer, but fortified with jam consolations, who can go wrong?
Written By Savio
Feb. 22, 2021, 1:49 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
From the Compact, to her Enemies
You sought to make a slave of me
You tried to dim my light
You thought you'd force me to my knees
As if that were your right
Proud of everything you stained
You don't know what you have done
You'll know the taste of your own pain
And this has only just begun
I will drive you cold before me
And I will see you shattered
Your blood will be a guarantee
That you are no one's master
Listen, those who thought I'd fall
And hear what I have spoken:
Though bloodied, I am standing tall
And I cannot be broken.
---
What an aching week it is.
You sought to make a slave of me
You tried to dim my light
You thought you'd force me to my knees
As if that were your right
Proud of everything you stained
You don't know what you have done
You'll know the taste of your own pain
And this has only just begun
I will drive you cold before me
And I will see you shattered
Your blood will be a guarantee
That you are no one's master
Listen, those who thought I'd fall
And hear what I have spoken:
Though bloodied, I am standing tall
And I cannot be broken.
---
What an aching week it is.
Written By Adalyn
Feb. 22, 2021, 12:25 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sunniva
True to her name, Sunni radiated warmth and light wherever she went, always with a kind word or a helping hand. She was gracious and giving, considerate of others' wants and needs, not because she felt such behavior was expected of her, but simply because that's who she was to the core. We were united by home and a shared upbringing, fast friends from the beginning. Her reason and calm formed the perfect counterbalance to my tendency to act on impulse. Looking back at our childhood, I realize now how sweetly she managed to soothe the chaos often left in my wake.
Sister to my soul, she said, and I feel the same.
Bravery is not simply rushing headlong into battle with a blade in your hand and a battle cry upon your lips. Sometimes, it is a subtler thing: a prayer, a hope, a determined stand. Marquessa Sunniva Harthall was truly brave.
She will be sorely missed.
Sister to my soul, she said, and I feel the same.
Bravery is not simply rushing headlong into battle with a blade in your hand and a battle cry upon your lips. Sometimes, it is a subtler thing: a prayer, a hope, a determined stand. Marquessa Sunniva Harthall was truly brave.
She will be sorely missed.
Written By Evaristo
Feb. 22, 2021, 12:01 p.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
I was always particularly bad at grieving. I'm not good at comforting those that are filled with sorrow, either - part of why I decided to leave the Harlequins (though not the major part.)
A part of me is screaming at me to just get on my ship and disappear for a few months. It's how I USED to handle it.
But I won't. I will not selfishly run away this time. I will honor the sacrifice made by one of the strongest, kindest, bravest people I have ever met, and do right by the survivors.
A part of me is screaming at me to just get on my ship and disappear for a few months. It's how I USED to handle it.
But I won't. I will not selfishly run away this time. I will honor the sacrifice made by one of the strongest, kindest, bravest people I have ever met, and do right by the survivors.
Written By Jael
Feb. 22, 2021, 11:16 a.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Mabelle
You did everything within your power. No one can reasonably ask for more than that.
Written By Scylla
Feb. 22, 2021, 11:02 a.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Yuri
You are a shining star blazing bright amid shadow. You bring effortless smiles to my face each time I'm in your presence, and that is a rare and treasured gift, indeed. If I thought it possible, I might have thought you were my brother, Caius, back from the dead. You're just so like him, or what I can remember of him.
I am proud of you; the La Rosa's grand opening was successful not just because of the hard work you put into taking a concept and making it a reality, though that deserves a great deal of recognition on its own. I believe the true source of your success comes from a deeper place: from the genuine attentiveness you show to friends and strangers alike, from that innate desire you possess to ensure everyone you meet can't help but feel special.
If it is within my power to support your growth and advancement, I will see it done.
I am proud of you; the La Rosa's grand opening was successful not just because of the hard work you put into taking a concept and making it a reality, though that deserves a great deal of recognition on its own. I believe the true source of your success comes from a deeper place: from the genuine attentiveness you show to friends and strangers alike, from that innate desire you possess to ensure everyone you meet can't help but feel special.
If it is within my power to support your growth and advancement, I will see it done.
Written By Zakhar
Feb. 22, 2021, 9:48 a.m.(12/27/1014 AR)
The balance of life in this mortal claim is not one that many take as seriously as they should. We strive to see ourselves further as well as to take revenge and rejoice in the slaughter of those that would take ours.
Coin is also appreciated if you're seeking help to make claim to more thumbs that you currently have.
Coin is also appreciated if you're seeking help to make claim to more thumbs that you currently have.
Written By Katarina
Feb. 22, 2021, 7:08 a.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
I mourn for the losses of Houses Laurent and Harthall.
I mourn for the loss of one of my closest friends.
I failed. You didn't.
I mourn for the loss of one of my closest friends.
I failed. You didn't.
Written By Mabelle
Feb. 22, 2021, 5:11 a.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
Of all variety of feelings, guilt is one I wished never to experience.
But.
When you are one and the damage is grand and you cannot aide everyone.
When you reach them but it's too late.
When you reach them on time and there is nothing you can do for them.
When you managed to save yourself but not others.
At least I did not lose you too.
I cannot even drown my sorrow in cake. Perhaps if I am lucky, I will drown it in the blood of our enemies once my cousins are done with them.
But.
When you are one and the damage is grand and you cannot aide everyone.
When you reach them but it's too late.
When you reach them on time and there is nothing you can do for them.
When you managed to save yourself but not others.
At least I did not lose you too.
I cannot even drown my sorrow in cake. Perhaps if I am lucky, I will drown it in the blood of our enemies once my cousins are done with them.
Written By Brigida
Feb. 22, 2021, 4:29 a.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
I wish it were not true with every fibre of my being.
I will miss you friend. So much.
I will miss you friend. So much.
Written By Tanith
Feb. 22, 2021, 12:15 a.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
We're a pair, together. And it's funny, I mean that of all three of us. I'm in the middle in a lot of ways. They still remark on it, not as much as they used to because now it's a knowing smile and a kiss rather than words.
I hold the hand of one and I'm in the light and he's in the shadow. I hold hands with the other and he's in the sun and I'm the twilight. Not as dark as my husband but not as bright as -him-. In between. In the middle. The balance.
There's a spot between the heat and the cold where it's neither. There's a place between the ocean and the land where it's both. There's a time in the day when the sky is bright and the sun hasn't risen, or when the sun is gone and the stars haven't come out. The stars see both the moon and the sun, I bet.
That's me. That's us.
I've come off a long journey and I know I've got to head out again. I'm strong, I can manage on my own, but given a choice, I want us together, always. It's rough work, loving so much, so hard, and being loved so much, so hard; you get used to it. You want it all, you're spoiled for it forever.
I don't mind, but it gives me so much more to lose.
I hold the hand of one and I'm in the light and he's in the shadow. I hold hands with the other and he's in the sun and I'm the twilight. Not as dark as my husband but not as bright as -him-. In between. In the middle. The balance.
There's a spot between the heat and the cold where it's neither. There's a place between the ocean and the land where it's both. There's a time in the day when the sky is bright and the sun hasn't risen, or when the sun is gone and the stars haven't come out. The stars see both the moon and the sun, I bet.
That's me. That's us.
I've come off a long journey and I know I've got to head out again. I'm strong, I can manage on my own, but given a choice, I want us together, always. It's rough work, loving so much, so hard, and being loved so much, so hard; you get used to it. You want it all, you're spoiled for it forever.
I don't mind, but it gives me so much more to lose.
Written By Tanith
Feb. 22, 2021, 12:10 a.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
I don't know how Evaristo did it, being Voice of the Harlequins. Do you know how jarring it is to be -announced- like you're someone important? A spotlight on someone like me ought to be T R O U B L E. That it wasn't, well. I blame being cousin to the Dominus. Which. Don't get me started on that.
What? Of course I'm proud of him, scholar, who wouldn't be? It's just ... I mean if you'd told me when I was a kid my dashing, pretty cousin was going to wind up where he is now, I'd have tripped you into the docks, same as anyone else sounding like they had waking fever-dreams.
...no, I don't see the similarities. Also I'm married, thank you. Aureth never had to worry about -that-.
Anyway. Setarco is quite pretty and I'll be back. I'm still shaking the sand out of my shoes, and it's good to be home. I missed our home, though, and the dog, and our man, and I'm glad to be in the middle of all of it. Though we haven't see -him- since we got back. We may need to stake out his home, climb in his window and-
Right. That's no one's business, that is.
What? Of course I'm proud of him, scholar, who wouldn't be? It's just ... I mean if you'd told me when I was a kid my dashing, pretty cousin was going to wind up where he is now, I'd have tripped you into the docks, same as anyone else sounding like they had waking fever-dreams.
...no, I don't see the similarities. Also I'm married, thank you. Aureth never had to worry about -that-.
Anyway. Setarco is quite pretty and I'll be back. I'm still shaking the sand out of my shoes, and it's good to be home. I missed our home, though, and the dog, and our man, and I'm glad to be in the middle of all of it. Though we haven't see -him- since we got back. We may need to stake out his home, climb in his window and-
Right. That's no one's business, that is.
Written By Adrienne
Feb. 21, 2021, 11:42 p.m.(12/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
It is the morning of 12/26, one thousand and fourteen years after the reckoning. By all accounts Sina Godsworn, Archlector of Vellichor, has been murdered. I made a promise to her, one which must be filled. Tomorrow. Today, we remember a woman with a sunlight smile and a mind of gracious and complex knowledge.
I had to travel to Pieros to meet her. She came there despite the Skal'dajans, despite the distance, despite its strangeness. She came to learn and to help and she will always have the love of a war-weary people for whom the pagentry of Sanctum and Arx are as foreign as snow.
Make no mistake: this was no happenstance attack. Sina knew what was to come. And yet still when she learned I had a question, she invited me into her home to present me the answer before she- before we would not have that chance. I served us tea, and I thought she might die of embarrassment to see her guest playing at hostess. We had tea while her cat Sebastian, no relation, slept and we talked about the politics of the world.
Her mind was an archive. In any other person she might have been a recluse or an outcast, happy with her books. But Sina Godsworn was a leader, so brave and so true. And so I conclude, that this was her choice. She knew the evils of this world and she did not cower from them. May we all remember her example.
I had to travel to Pieros to meet her. She came there despite the Skal'dajans, despite the distance, despite its strangeness. She came to learn and to help and she will always have the love of a war-weary people for whom the pagentry of Sanctum and Arx are as foreign as snow.
Make no mistake: this was no happenstance attack. Sina knew what was to come. And yet still when she learned I had a question, she invited me into her home to present me the answer before she- before we would not have that chance. I served us tea, and I thought she might die of embarrassment to see her guest playing at hostess. We had tea while her cat Sebastian, no relation, slept and we talked about the politics of the world.
Her mind was an archive. In any other person she might have been a recluse or an outcast, happy with her books. But Sina Godsworn was a leader, so brave and so true. And so I conclude, that this was her choice. She knew the evils of this world and she did not cower from them. May we all remember her example.
Written By Derovai
Feb. 21, 2021, 10:55 p.m.(12/23/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
Let those who wield poisoned blades trip down a steep flight of stairs, into a mildly deep ravine, and land with the pointed end buried in their gut, while crows wait, though not long enough, for them to die of it, so they can feed.
You deserved better than this.
You deserved better than this.
Written By Felicia
Feb. 21, 2021, 10:55 p.m.(12/23/1014 AR)
Recently I was blessed with stalwart companions who held the line in the face of difficult odds. And I would like it recorded for the future that Marquessa Sunniva Harthall, Lady Adalyn Clement, Lord Michael Bisland, Lady Kalani Seleki and Master Evaristo Arterius are as fine a group as one could wish for.
Written By Khanne
Feb. 21, 2021, 10:17 p.m.(12/23/1014 AR)
Have you ever tried to chase the wind?
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.