Written By Haakon
Feb. 20, 2021, 2:14 p.m.(12/20/1014 AR)
Hands are gathered for a new reaving. It has been too long.
Written By Viviana
Feb. 20, 2021, 1:21 p.m.(12/20/1014 AR)
I missed my Paramour. One of my great loves. I think that for now - I'm making that home. It's so much easier to sleep, rocked by the vague idea that I'm out at sea - instead of anchored in the Harbor - and all the action and noise from the street is awfully calming.
Written By Piccola
Feb. 20, 2021, 12:43 p.m.(12/20/1014 AR)
The coward asks if it is safe; the impatient if it is politic; the vain if it is popular.
The noble asks the question: "is it right?"
There comes a time when one must take a position that is not safe, politic, or popular, but which must be taken because it is right.
The noble asks the question: "is it right?"
There comes a time when one must take a position that is not safe, politic, or popular, but which must be taken because it is right.
Written By Deva
Feb. 20, 2021, 11:08 a.m.(12/20/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
I would have adored such a friendship back then, but it's probably best for the city that we didn't meet sooner. We would have exceeded the prank threshold already. The upside is that there are years to make up for now!
Written By Sunaia
Feb. 20, 2021, 10:26 a.m.(12/20/1014 AR)
Scholar, I wasn't sure if I -- should even -- but I am. Because if I don't, I am aware it's going to gnaw on my waking hours until I write it down.
I don't know who you are. You that saw me. That changed the way it all sounded. The one that made it sound wrong.
You saw me.
I'll see you, I imagine, along the line somewhere. I know what can happen. I guess, I guess that I'm not afraid of what can happen, because it doesn't make sense to be afraid of the unknowns -- or I can be, but, I'm not going to be chained by the uncertainty. I make this choice. I use this fear. I'll learn what I need to, do what I need to, and if that ends -- it ends.
That, Scholar Einar, feels so much better.
Now?
I'm going for a walk.
I don't know who you are. You that saw me. That changed the way it all sounded. The one that made it sound wrong.
You saw me.
I'll see you, I imagine, along the line somewhere. I know what can happen. I guess, I guess that I'm not afraid of what can happen, because it doesn't make sense to be afraid of the unknowns -- or I can be, but, I'm not going to be chained by the uncertainty. I make this choice. I use this fear. I'll learn what I need to, do what I need to, and if that ends -- it ends.
That, Scholar Einar, feels so much better.
Now?
I'm going for a walk.
Written By Lenard
Feb. 20, 2021, 5:37 a.m.(12/19/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Gwenys
There are many distant cousins with whom I have things in common, but few among them share the wanderlust that we share. I am proud to call you family, and there are few I would rather have next to me if shav raiders decide to lay ambush to a travelling party.
If only because there's few who can so thoroughly beat me in a spar.
If only because there's few who can so thoroughly beat me in a spar.
Written By Cerelia
Feb. 19, 2021, 9:17 p.m.(12/19/1014 AR)
After having settled into the city I still haven't managed to meet new people. With a city this large it's hard to know where to be.
Written By Dio
Feb. 19, 2021, 6:37 p.m.(12/19/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Orland
I enjoyed the autumn concert of the Bard's College. Its performances were varied, and included the inspired fiddling of Nina Atumndale and the comedic entertainment of Lord Orland and Savio Pontelaeus. It is hard not to be moved by mournful songs, yet even as I struggled with profound feelings, I soon found myself laughing at the flashing wit of the next performance.
The reaction of those in attendance to the high fashion of Gianna Delvecchio and Nina is best described as mania. A young courtier fainted after watching the Nightingale sweep past bedecked in jewels and peerless confidence. As if I were not inspired enough by the concert itself, I had visions as Pirate Lords do when I overheard Queen Symonesse pledging considerable largesse in support of the next concert, a prospect that I think thrills everyone who has ever been to a concert at which the bards of the college have performed.
I was surprised to learn that the Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius is a well known jewelry crafter, but had the good fortune to see a pendant he'd made worn by Nina. It is yet another reminder of vast talents of the college's members, and though I had experienced the poetic and musical skill of Savio in Pieros, this was also the first opportunity I had to watch my protege perform in concert. He was fantastic. Count Duarte also enjoyed the performance, and I think we share a belief that the young man, however much he may appear bored and uninterested at times, possesses fathomless potential which is everyday being realized.
The reaction of those in attendance to the high fashion of Gianna Delvecchio and Nina is best described as mania. A young courtier fainted after watching the Nightingale sweep past bedecked in jewels and peerless confidence. As if I were not inspired enough by the concert itself, I had visions as Pirate Lords do when I overheard Queen Symonesse pledging considerable largesse in support of the next concert, a prospect that I think thrills everyone who has ever been to a concert at which the bards of the college have performed.
I was surprised to learn that the Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius is a well known jewelry crafter, but had the good fortune to see a pendant he'd made worn by Nina. It is yet another reminder of vast talents of the college's members, and though I had experienced the poetic and musical skill of Savio in Pieros, this was also the first opportunity I had to watch my protege perform in concert. He was fantastic. Count Duarte also enjoyed the performance, and I think we share a belief that the young man, however much he may appear bored and uninterested at times, possesses fathomless potential which is everyday being realized.
Written By Taliene
Feb. 19, 2021, 3:07 p.m.(12/18/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Samantha
I am come to Arx! For many months I have studied out at Old Oak, but the kind Marquessa Samantha urged me to come to the city. I am not yet sure why, but I was glad to come here for it will surely be interesting, even if perplexing. I feel most warmly towards Marquessa Samantha, and I am grateful to be sheltered under the Deepwood leaves.
Truly though, it is hard at times not to think - why are we all so afflicted? The deaths of our family - and then, at Deepwood, the death of my so-brief husband and so many others. Truly, the world is at times soaked in a scarlet tissue of grief.
Yet honour is a gleaming solace amidst all of this.
Truly though, it is hard at times not to think - why are we all so afflicted? The deaths of our family - and then, at Deepwood, the death of my so-brief husband and so many others. Truly, the world is at times soaked in a scarlet tissue of grief.
Yet honour is a gleaming solace amidst all of this.
Written By Svana
Feb. 19, 2021, 7:51 a.m.(12/18/1014 AR)
I am black and blue, sore all over, but I couldn't have had more fun. It might be a day or so before I'm ready to do anything besides lie in bed and be a useless lump. A hot bath, plenty of wine and water, and a cuddly family is what the Mercies have ordered!
I'm just glad that I didn't have to fight Sydney. I'm always amazed at her skill. I know why they call her Sydney the Waterfall.
Cheers to all the competitors. Especially Savio, who now owes me babysitting.
[Transcribed by Khadija for Svana]
I'm just glad that I didn't have to fight Sydney. I'm always amazed at her skill. I know why they call her Sydney the Waterfall.
Cheers to all the competitors. Especially Savio, who now owes me babysitting.
[Transcribed by Khadija for Svana]
Written By Mabelle
Feb. 19, 2021, 1:52 a.m.(12/17/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
Heading out to Artshall again. My cousin came with the idea of making me a traveling wagon.
I like the idea very much. I need my beauty sleep.
I need to find a woodworker with a need for a project.
I like the idea very much. I need my beauty sleep.
I need to find a woodworker with a need for a project.
Written By Sydney
Feb. 19, 2021, 12:10 a.m.(12/17/1014 AR)
It's a vindicating thing, to succeed at something several years later that you failed at so utterly before.
My head is still pounding, and I need to drink some water before I sleep, but that was one hell of an evening and one hell of an afterparty. A messenger or two before bed, I think.
My head is still pounding, and I need to drink some water before I sleep, but that was one hell of an evening and one hell of an afterparty. A messenger or two before bed, I think.
Written By Medeia
Feb. 19, 2021, 12:03 a.m.(12/17/1014 AR)
I finally had the opportunity to recount a story to Archduchess Jaenelle, somewhat unexpectedly within the hall of Eswyndol while sitting on the floor because my cat threatened me when I tried to stand up (she was on my lap - the cat, not the archduchess). Thankfully, I was forgiven as it seems to be universally understood that cats are in charge. And she's been awfully friendly lately (again, the cat, not the archduchess - the archduchess is always lovely).
My husband and Lord Ciro were present for the telling, though Haakon already knew the tale. Surprisingly, and sadly, the story intersects with one of Ciro's. It is a shame how widespread the pain inflicted by certain relatives of mine is. If I could fix all the suffering and damage, I would, even if I bear no responsibility for such. But I hope in sharing the information, perhaps these two people have gained something - even if that is only the knowledge of how my very large scar came to be.
I will tell you, Scholar. Some day.
My husband and Lord Ciro were present for the telling, though Haakon already knew the tale. Surprisingly, and sadly, the story intersects with one of Ciro's. It is a shame how widespread the pain inflicted by certain relatives of mine is. If I could fix all the suffering and damage, I would, even if I bear no responsibility for such. But I hope in sharing the information, perhaps these two people have gained something - even if that is only the knowledge of how my very large scar came to be.
I will tell you, Scholar. Some day.
Written By Savio
Feb. 18, 2021, 11:28 p.m.(12/17/1014 AR)
What a journey through the Fist Fight of the People's Tournament! Of course every opponent had to have a song, didn't they?
Vs Merek:
Sir Merek Black, I'm yours to attack!
I'll do my best, well fought
I've got no chance but I'm ready to dance
C'mon and show me what you got!
It's gonna be quick and I'll try not to be sick
In front of all our friends
I'ma try to win and I'll take it on the chin
But I think we know how this one ends?
Vs Zakhar:
Zakhar, friend! How can I fight you?
Of course you're bound to win it!
We're here to fight but it's got me blue
You know my heart's not in it!
But so the hostess has decreed,
You know that I can't dash her
I invite you to make me bleed --
Or else that'll fall to Lasha!
Vs Svana:
Svana, Svana, lovely one!
How could I hit you, girl!
It's surely over before it's begun
But let's give this a whirl
Now it's clear the end is near
Bets on me? An unwise bid
I don't think it's wrong to fear
A woman with four kids.
Vs Sydney:
You'd really think that I'd know better
Than to go chasing Waterfalls
But I'm star-struck, who could forget her?
She's renowned for how she brawls!
We've seen her dust the competition
Without breaking a sweat
Who's up for a repetition?
Look for the fastest knockout yet
Now you're thinking 'that boy's a goner --
There's no skill hidden underneath'
You're RIGHT of course but it's an honor
And I'll try not to eat my teeth.
And of course the inevitable conclusion...
I yield, I yield, and I'm undone
Cry it through the town!
But I have to say that this was fun --
And you look perfect in a crown.
I couldn't be happier. Glad I still have all my teeth. All of my congratulations to everyone, most especially Softest Anisha our hostess, and to the indomitable Sydney the Waterfall.
Still a little scared of Lasha though.
Vs Merek:
Sir Merek Black, I'm yours to attack!
I'll do my best, well fought
I've got no chance but I'm ready to dance
C'mon and show me what you got!
It's gonna be quick and I'll try not to be sick
In front of all our friends
I'ma try to win and I'll take it on the chin
But I think we know how this one ends?
Vs Zakhar:
Zakhar, friend! How can I fight you?
Of course you're bound to win it!
We're here to fight but it's got me blue
You know my heart's not in it!
But so the hostess has decreed,
You know that I can't dash her
I invite you to make me bleed --
Or else that'll fall to Lasha!
Vs Svana:
Svana, Svana, lovely one!
How could I hit you, girl!
It's surely over before it's begun
But let's give this a whirl
Now it's clear the end is near
Bets on me? An unwise bid
I don't think it's wrong to fear
A woman with four kids.
Vs Sydney:
You'd really think that I'd know better
Than to go chasing Waterfalls
But I'm star-struck, who could forget her?
She's renowned for how she brawls!
We've seen her dust the competition
Without breaking a sweat
Who's up for a repetition?
Look for the fastest knockout yet
Now you're thinking 'that boy's a goner --
There's no skill hidden underneath'
You're RIGHT of course but it's an honor
And I'll try not to eat my teeth.
And of course the inevitable conclusion...
I yield, I yield, and I'm undone
Cry it through the town!
But I have to say that this was fun --
And you look perfect in a crown.
I couldn't be happier. Glad I still have all my teeth. All of my congratulations to everyone, most especially Softest Anisha our hostess, and to the indomitable Sydney the Waterfall.
Still a little scared of Lasha though.
Written By Keely
Feb. 18, 2021, 7:11 p.m.(12/17/1014 AR)
I'm back in Arx after an absence, and already I've had a busy time! I forgot how bustling the city can be. It's hard not to feel like I'm in over my head at times, but I swear, Scholar, I am going to learn all that I need to, so that I can be a proper Princess of Renown.
Written By Viviana
Feb. 17, 2021, 7:53 p.m.(12/15/1014 AR)
My advice? Alcohol helps ennui some.
Start at the Ebb and Flow - around breakfast.
Move onto the next ward and repeat.
Start at the Ebb and Flow - around breakfast.
Move onto the next ward and repeat.
Written By Mirari
Feb. 17, 2021, 9:08 a.m.(12/14/1014 AR)
Somedays, I wonder how I can have lived into my thirties and yet remain so inconceivably stupid. Once more I feel an ennui starting to settle over my heart and mind. My projects bring me no satisfaction and I ruin the things that do.
Written By Ember
Feb. 16, 2021, 2:57 p.m.(12/12/1014 AR)
My gratitude is extended to Violine Sunwheel, the lady-in-waiting of my retinue who transcribes this for me today.
I lie bedridden, nearly felled by an assassin's arrow to my belly. I am told that I am lucky to have survived. I am on bed rest for a few more days yet. Rum helps me to sleep despite the pain. It has been suggested to me that for a long while yet it will look as though I have a second, off-center navel.
The one who let that arrow fly, with intent to murder me, is the shav Hector Blackreef. I will see him pay for his transgression.
It was the assistance of my cousin Lady Sedna and the woman who helped to raise me, Zoya Kotov, that saved my life. Their courage in the face of armed enemies inspires me, and confirms to me that there is a warrior in every soul to come from Redreef Shores. Redreef Shores is blessed by the gods for this.
Violine, do not write this down. I must say it for my own edification. Despite our differences, I truly love my cousin Sedna. As I truly love Zoya. These things should be said and not held inside of oneself, but perhaps not recorded in the whites. Perhaps I will give them medals.
Violine, is your hand moving?
Are you continuing to write?
Did you write down what I just said not to transcribe?
Why are you still continuing to write?
I lie bedridden, nearly felled by an assassin's arrow to my belly. I am told that I am lucky to have survived. I am on bed rest for a few more days yet. Rum helps me to sleep despite the pain. It has been suggested to me that for a long while yet it will look as though I have a second, off-center navel.
The one who let that arrow fly, with intent to murder me, is the shav Hector Blackreef. I will see him pay for his transgression.
It was the assistance of my cousin Lady Sedna and the woman who helped to raise me, Zoya Kotov, that saved my life. Their courage in the face of armed enemies inspires me, and confirms to me that there is a warrior in every soul to come from Redreef Shores. Redreef Shores is blessed by the gods for this.
Violine, do not write this down. I must say it for my own edification. Despite our differences, I truly love my cousin Sedna. As I truly love Zoya. These things should be said and not held inside of oneself, but perhaps not recorded in the whites. Perhaps I will give them medals.
Violine, is your hand moving?
Are you continuing to write?
Did you write down what I just said not to transcribe?
Why are you still continuing to write?
Written By Piccola
Feb. 16, 2021, 2:18 p.m.(12/12/1014 AR)
When one among many enemies, assume a wide-stretched stance.
Chase your enemies around from side to side, even though they come from all four directions. Observe their attacking order. Go to meet first those who attack first. Move laterally. Cut left and right alternately with your swords.
Do not hesitate. Always quickly return to your attitudes to both sides; cut the enemies down as they advance, crushing them in the direction from which they attack. As you move about, draw your enemies together in the center, as if tying a line of fishes.
When they are piled up, cut them down strongly without giving them room to move.
Chase your enemies around from side to side, even though they come from all four directions. Observe their attacking order. Go to meet first those who attack first. Move laterally. Cut left and right alternately with your swords.
Do not hesitate. Always quickly return to your attitudes to both sides; cut the enemies down as they advance, crushing them in the direction from which they attack. As you move about, draw your enemies together in the center, as if tying a line of fishes.
When they are piled up, cut them down strongly without giving them room to move.
Written By Sylvana
Feb. 16, 2021, 6 a.m.(12/11/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Amanita
I'd heard of the famous whisper house of Arx a lot over the years, but I hadn't thought that anybody would actually live up to the lofty reputation that the house had set up for me. Years of anticipation and each building upon the last, until I was sure that it was impossible for them to ever measure up to my expectations. How wrong I was.
I was spending some time in the Shrine of Petrichor, it's a bit different from communing directly in the forest itself, but to have this little piece of nature that feels so much like a part of him is lovely and there I met many wonderful and interesting people. Another that I will likely be writing about in a future entry but today I want to talk about Amanita Whisper.
She arrived with an offering to Petrichor. Simple things, really. A bit of leaves, an eggshell, and other little pieces of nature. From there, we spoke and she carries herself with a poise and grace that makes me look back at myself in the hopes that I'm not making a complete fool of myself. She's deeply engaging and vibrant, wise and charming. From my talks with her she sounds like someone that truly appreciates the forest for what it can provide, and that's something I wasn't expecting to find so soon within the walls of Arx, and not only that but she is very much a credit to the Whisper house. Truly they're lucky to have her.
I was spending some time in the Shrine of Petrichor, it's a bit different from communing directly in the forest itself, but to have this little piece of nature that feels so much like a part of him is lovely and there I met many wonderful and interesting people. Another that I will likely be writing about in a future entry but today I want to talk about Amanita Whisper.
She arrived with an offering to Petrichor. Simple things, really. A bit of leaves, an eggshell, and other little pieces of nature. From there, we spoke and she carries herself with a poise and grace that makes me look back at myself in the hopes that I'm not making a complete fool of myself. She's deeply engaging and vibrant, wise and charming. From my talks with her she sounds like someone that truly appreciates the forest for what it can provide, and that's something I wasn't expecting to find so soon within the walls of Arx, and not only that but she is very much a credit to the Whisper house. Truly they're lucky to have her.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.