Written By Dio
Jan. 27, 2021, 9:31 a.m.(10/28/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Ophira
My sister has many qualities I lack: she is a graceful dancer, a talented musician, a brilliant strategist, tasteful in fashion and liked by Marquessa Tyche. I wish that she were not so perceptive however, so she could not tease me quite so mercilessly.
Written By Savio
Jan. 27, 2021, 2 a.m.(10/27/1014 AR)
Along came a spider, silver threads
Wound their way through people's heads
Stitch a picture, speak just so
Bind the thoughts they can't let go
Silver spider, pulling strings
Puppets dance for worthless things
Captives all, desperate to please
They don't know they're on their knees
Subtle spider, can't be touched
Effortless, no need to rush
A long con and a scheme sublime
Patient spinner, biding time
Clever spider, understands
The grand design and all it spans
He sees it all -- so he's supposed
But the world is stranger than he knows.
Wound their way through people's heads
Stitch a picture, speak just so
Bind the thoughts they can't let go
Silver spider, pulling strings
Puppets dance for worthless things
Captives all, desperate to please
They don't know they're on their knees
Subtle spider, can't be touched
Effortless, no need to rush
A long con and a scheme sublime
Patient spinner, biding time
Clever spider, understands
The grand design and all it spans
He sees it all -- so he's supposed
But the world is stranger than he knows.
Written By Andrina
Jan. 27, 2021, 12:10 a.m.(10/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Piccola
General Tessere is an interesting woman, and I'm certain she's be quite an interesting patron. I'm excited to have entered into this relationship with her. I wonder what we will accomplish in the future.
Written By Teague
Jan. 26, 2021, 11:29 p.m.(10/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sunaia
We had a good match. She is amazing at defensive motions, deflecting blades. If you need a good warrior, this is one to be called.
Written By Natasha
Jan. 26, 2021, 10:17 p.m.(10/27/1014 AR)
I was never a person predisposed to frivolity or extravagance. When I made a decision a few weeks ago to live a dream that could never be mine in a vain attempt to shorten the inevitable list of unfulfilled aspirations I am guaranteed to hold the moment I return to the Wheel, some part of me wondered if I became precisely that. Frivolous. Extravagant.
But I think it is worth it when I wake every morning without regret.
I hope that I have gleaned enough strength from it once I face the storms in these next moments that follow, where I must once again put my mental and physical fortitude to the test.
But I think it is worth it when I wake every morning without regret.
I hope that I have gleaned enough strength from it once I face the storms in these next moments that follow, where I must once again put my mental and physical fortitude to the test.
Written By Zakhar
Jan. 26, 2021, 2:48 p.m.(10/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Lasha
Tree. Stoic. Generous.
Written By Dio
Jan. 26, 2021, 10:36 a.m.(10/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Adrienne
I am filled with gratitude when I think of who I could have been save for my education. I hold no one in contempt for their way of life: some pirates and reavers are content to read the book of nature, and never lay a quill to parchment save to make an X. But for those who thirst for knowledge, learning to read has been the first step in a great adventure.
I read little before being enrolled in the School of Steel and Silk - which is to say, not at all. Even in my junior years, I loved the sea far more than the tomes we were obligated to read. It was not until I was expelled that I truly began to appreciate the gift I had been given. As a captain in the Black Fleet, I would occasionally come across letters that bore some intelligence relevant to the designs of our enemies, but I also encountered books: histories, guides, poems, lives and stories. Some I kept, and in the listless doldrums I would read in the shade of the mast, until the rum or wine would make the letters too blurry to continue.
What I read did not always make sense to me, and it was not until Owen of Farhaven came into my service that I began to keep a journal and a commonplace book, after the fashion of the scholars of the Northlands. I would record what struck me as most interesting, as well as my questions. As a lord of House Seraceni, I had the time and space to reflect and organize my thoughts, and began to see patterns in the ebbs and flows of history, like those of the Ischian tides.
Since the union of Prince Sebastian and Princess Adrienne, a great scholar has come into our midst. She shares from the great fields of her research blooms of knowledge that, however dreadful in bringing greater awareness, sharpen the soul to meet its trials. Nor is she merely a researcher, but a philosopher also, whose mind seeks even the opinion of pirate lords on matters of morality and duty.
Knowledge is a keen weapon. It allows one to strike with greater accuracy, to bear with dignified resignation the failures and setbacks of mortal life, and to foresee a path to ever greater prosperity. Pirates are optimists: the vast horizon promises greater spoils, new friendships and undiscovered beauty. Such optimism has lead many to an early death, though those who have tempered it with such knowledge as the princess provides, find themselves well equipped for even the most perilous adventures.
I read little before being enrolled in the School of Steel and Silk - which is to say, not at all. Even in my junior years, I loved the sea far more than the tomes we were obligated to read. It was not until I was expelled that I truly began to appreciate the gift I had been given. As a captain in the Black Fleet, I would occasionally come across letters that bore some intelligence relevant to the designs of our enemies, but I also encountered books: histories, guides, poems, lives and stories. Some I kept, and in the listless doldrums I would read in the shade of the mast, until the rum or wine would make the letters too blurry to continue.
What I read did not always make sense to me, and it was not until Owen of Farhaven came into my service that I began to keep a journal and a commonplace book, after the fashion of the scholars of the Northlands. I would record what struck me as most interesting, as well as my questions. As a lord of House Seraceni, I had the time and space to reflect and organize my thoughts, and began to see patterns in the ebbs and flows of history, like those of the Ischian tides.
Since the union of Prince Sebastian and Princess Adrienne, a great scholar has come into our midst. She shares from the great fields of her research blooms of knowledge that, however dreadful in bringing greater awareness, sharpen the soul to meet its trials. Nor is she merely a researcher, but a philosopher also, whose mind seeks even the opinion of pirate lords on matters of morality and duty.
Knowledge is a keen weapon. It allows one to strike with greater accuracy, to bear with dignified resignation the failures and setbacks of mortal life, and to foresee a path to ever greater prosperity. Pirates are optimists: the vast horizon promises greater spoils, new friendships and undiscovered beauty. Such optimism has lead many to an early death, though those who have tempered it with such knowledge as the princess provides, find themselves well equipped for even the most perilous adventures.
Written By Piccola
Jan. 26, 2021, 8:48 a.m.(10/26/1014 AR)
What I write now, wise general, might do nobody good.
At the end of this discourse a few people may accuse me of fouling my own stable. My House maybe accused of having given hospitality to dangerous thoughts. But the elaborate structure of command in which we all live -- noble, commoner, diplomat, soldier, sailor, soldier -- will not be so easily shaken or altered.
It is merely my desire, if not my duty, to teach you with some candor about what I have seen in my limited years.
For those who roam the battlefield like alpha wolves, there is little advice or counsel I can offer for the coming days. Stay safe, survive, and see that those who depend on you do the same. You will, I am sure, forgive me for not telling you that what you do is work miracles no less mystifying and splendid than the terrifying works our enemies may conjure to defeat us. It is not necessary to remind you of the fact that your voice, amplified to the degree where it reaches from one end of this great kingdom to the other, does not confer upon you greater wisdom than when your voice reached only from one end of the tavern to the other.
All of these things you know.
I have no feud with any but myself and the disquiet I suffer from. But I am seized with an abiding fear regarding what is happening even now to our society, our culture, and our heritage. Our history will be what we make it, and if there are any historians about fifty or a hundred years from now there should be preserved in Vellichor's archives, recorded in black and white pages, evidence of the decadence, escapism, and insulation from the realities of the world in which we live. And I have reason to hope, as do many of you, that my words are viewed as they are presented: fairly, calmly, and in the spirit of illumination, not agitation.
We are to a large extent an imitative society.
We are wealthy, comfortable, and complacent, living in a fantastic image of what we believe our Gods' splendor ought to be. We seem to have an allergy to unpleasant or disturbing information. And unless we apply our surpluses and excesses to the welfare and benefit to not only just the creation of that fantasy but also the amelioration of our avoided nightmares, then we will be forever be seen as vulnerable to discord and rebellion but also to those demagogues whose simple messages provide to the masses an alternate vision wherein they may be abused less.
I therefore urge you, wise general, to remember well for what you fight, lest it become a mockery of the sacrifices you make.
At the end of this discourse a few people may accuse me of fouling my own stable. My House maybe accused of having given hospitality to dangerous thoughts. But the elaborate structure of command in which we all live -- noble, commoner, diplomat, soldier, sailor, soldier -- will not be so easily shaken or altered.
It is merely my desire, if not my duty, to teach you with some candor about what I have seen in my limited years.
For those who roam the battlefield like alpha wolves, there is little advice or counsel I can offer for the coming days. Stay safe, survive, and see that those who depend on you do the same. You will, I am sure, forgive me for not telling you that what you do is work miracles no less mystifying and splendid than the terrifying works our enemies may conjure to defeat us. It is not necessary to remind you of the fact that your voice, amplified to the degree where it reaches from one end of this great kingdom to the other, does not confer upon you greater wisdom than when your voice reached only from one end of the tavern to the other.
All of these things you know.
I have no feud with any but myself and the disquiet I suffer from. But I am seized with an abiding fear regarding what is happening even now to our society, our culture, and our heritage. Our history will be what we make it, and if there are any historians about fifty or a hundred years from now there should be preserved in Vellichor's archives, recorded in black and white pages, evidence of the decadence, escapism, and insulation from the realities of the world in which we live. And I have reason to hope, as do many of you, that my words are viewed as they are presented: fairly, calmly, and in the spirit of illumination, not agitation.
We are to a large extent an imitative society.
We are wealthy, comfortable, and complacent, living in a fantastic image of what we believe our Gods' splendor ought to be. We seem to have an allergy to unpleasant or disturbing information. And unless we apply our surpluses and excesses to the welfare and benefit to not only just the creation of that fantasy but also the amelioration of our avoided nightmares, then we will be forever be seen as vulnerable to discord and rebellion but also to those demagogues whose simple messages provide to the masses an alternate vision wherein they may be abused less.
I therefore urge you, wise general, to remember well for what you fight, lest it become a mockery of the sacrifices you make.
Written By Yuri
Jan. 26, 2021, 8:46 a.m.(10/26/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
Shall I ever decided to submit myself in the running as one of the Champions, I know precisely what tenants I fight for and where I swear my oaths to: Ser Yuri Tessere, vanguard of kindness and patience.
Lady Medeia continues to show me gratuitous honor.
Lady Medeia continues to show me gratuitous honor.
Written By Medeia
Jan. 26, 2021, 12:51 a.m.(10/25/1014 AR)
This has been a most incredible several days and I have so many people to be grateful for. I can scarcely believe it all, but I am going to do my best not to leave out any important details or people.
Some time back, Mother Bianca had reached out to me about hosting some events for the Faith. I, of course, agreed and began planning right away. Though plans changed slightly, I did have the grand fortune of being able to host the Good Harvest celebration with Mistress Caprice Artiglio. Her assistance was vital to making the day excellent. It was a true pleasure to have Sir Brannen Harthall lead the prayer to Lagoma, Brother Felix Meadson lead the prayer to Petrichor, and Lord Haakon Eswynd (Yes, my husband. No Scholar, don't look at me like that, I wouldn't lie while doing my Vellichorian duty! And no, I didn't threaten him either. His prayer is in the archives.) lead the prayer to Mangata. The rest of the event was wonderful, for reasons I won't disclose. Just know that I am very happy.
For the Days of Libation, Caprice and I each took a day - I got the first, she got the second. For my festivities, I held two contests of different types of fishing. There were a few mishaps, but I am glad to say no one got eaten by the shark that came to visit the beach. The winner of the first was a very tall bard named Braxas, who won a fisherman's knife made from cupridium with a gorgeous mother of pearl inlaid handle. The winner of the second was Sir Merek, who won a harpoon - also crafted from cupridium. It should be noted that my husband was a boon to me in determining the prizes and sketching designs, and Brother Felix turned those sketches into impressive pieces of weaponry. Also, though I have mentioned this already, the Libation of the Year was announced: Harlequin's Bliss Golden Rum from Lord Ciro Seraceni's Lost and Found distillery in Ischia. The second day was expertly hosted by Caprice with the announcement of the hangover cure contest winner - another proud moment for me hearing Tanith Grayhope's name announced, there - and a contest of boasts, roasts, and toasts. Not having host duties, I attempted to participate in that, but perhaps having had Fluffy with me (my large cat, she likes to be held even though she is half my size) may have impeded my cleverness. Count Duarte Amadeo certainly made me blush! The winners were Princess Katarina Valardin and Archduchess Jaenelle Velenosa - they are fantastic and witty women.
None of these events could have happened without the support of Mother Bianca and Blessed Brigida, nor the scores of Godsworn who set up tables and contests, ensured food and drink stayed in supply for the feasting, and cleaned up after. Many, many hands went into making the celebrations a success. Oh, and not least, gratitude is given also to House Valardin and House Eswynd for their partnership with the Faith to cover the costs associated with such grand events. Their generosity stands as an example to us all.
Scholar, I'm not finished. Yes, I realize this is very long. The wind cares not. And neither do I.
In the midst of all these other celebrations, House Eswynd held the Coral Ball in honor of Mangata as our own way of celebrating the change of seasons and the rich bounty she gives us. This party was the brilliant idea of Marquessa Norah Eswynd - and she looked beautiful in the blue seasilk gown draped with white deeplight coral she wore. We had so many dazzling guests that I could not hope to name them all. However, I must admit: Lord Yuri Tessere was once again the epitome of kindness and patience. I was, perhaps, a bit too eager to dance after my knee injury. Thankfully, he kept me from decorating the floor like a rug. Or re-injuring myself. There was an auction that night for the necklace I've talked about here before, the one made by Master Ripley from deeplight coral and pearls. Lady Kaia Malvici was so taken with it that Lord Martino Malvici made sure his darling wife got what she wanted by placing the winning bid. I can't wait to see her wearing it! She's such a beauty that she'll make the coral sparkle even more.
There is so much more in the works. And war draws ever closer. I am certain of our victory with the gods on our side and all of the preparations that have been done. Still? I know that the medics will have a difficult task ahead of them as our sailors and warriors take the fight to the Skal'dajan fleet. And now, Scholar? I'll leave you be.
Some time back, Mother Bianca had reached out to me about hosting some events for the Faith. I, of course, agreed and began planning right away. Though plans changed slightly, I did have the grand fortune of being able to host the Good Harvest celebration with Mistress Caprice Artiglio. Her assistance was vital to making the day excellent. It was a true pleasure to have Sir Brannen Harthall lead the prayer to Lagoma, Brother Felix Meadson lead the prayer to Petrichor, and Lord Haakon Eswynd (Yes, my husband. No Scholar, don't look at me like that, I wouldn't lie while doing my Vellichorian duty! And no, I didn't threaten him either. His prayer is in the archives.) lead the prayer to Mangata. The rest of the event was wonderful, for reasons I won't disclose. Just know that I am very happy.
For the Days of Libation, Caprice and I each took a day - I got the first, she got the second. For my festivities, I held two contests of different types of fishing. There were a few mishaps, but I am glad to say no one got eaten by the shark that came to visit the beach. The winner of the first was a very tall bard named Braxas, who won a fisherman's knife made from cupridium with a gorgeous mother of pearl inlaid handle. The winner of the second was Sir Merek, who won a harpoon - also crafted from cupridium. It should be noted that my husband was a boon to me in determining the prizes and sketching designs, and Brother Felix turned those sketches into impressive pieces of weaponry. Also, though I have mentioned this already, the Libation of the Year was announced: Harlequin's Bliss Golden Rum from Lord Ciro Seraceni's Lost and Found distillery in Ischia. The second day was expertly hosted by Caprice with the announcement of the hangover cure contest winner - another proud moment for me hearing Tanith Grayhope's name announced, there - and a contest of boasts, roasts, and toasts. Not having host duties, I attempted to participate in that, but perhaps having had Fluffy with me (my large cat, she likes to be held even though she is half my size) may have impeded my cleverness. Count Duarte Amadeo certainly made me blush! The winners were Princess Katarina Valardin and Archduchess Jaenelle Velenosa - they are fantastic and witty women.
None of these events could have happened without the support of Mother Bianca and Blessed Brigida, nor the scores of Godsworn who set up tables and contests, ensured food and drink stayed in supply for the feasting, and cleaned up after. Many, many hands went into making the celebrations a success. Oh, and not least, gratitude is given also to House Valardin and House Eswynd for their partnership with the Faith to cover the costs associated with such grand events. Their generosity stands as an example to us all.
Scholar, I'm not finished. Yes, I realize this is very long. The wind cares not. And neither do I.
In the midst of all these other celebrations, House Eswynd held the Coral Ball in honor of Mangata as our own way of celebrating the change of seasons and the rich bounty she gives us. This party was the brilliant idea of Marquessa Norah Eswynd - and she looked beautiful in the blue seasilk gown draped with white deeplight coral she wore. We had so many dazzling guests that I could not hope to name them all. However, I must admit: Lord Yuri Tessere was once again the epitome of kindness and patience. I was, perhaps, a bit too eager to dance after my knee injury. Thankfully, he kept me from decorating the floor like a rug. Or re-injuring myself. There was an auction that night for the necklace I've talked about here before, the one made by Master Ripley from deeplight coral and pearls. Lady Kaia Malvici was so taken with it that Lord Martino Malvici made sure his darling wife got what she wanted by placing the winning bid. I can't wait to see her wearing it! She's such a beauty that she'll make the coral sparkle even more.
There is so much more in the works. And war draws ever closer. I am certain of our victory with the gods on our side and all of the preparations that have been done. Still? I know that the medics will have a difficult task ahead of them as our sailors and warriors take the fight to the Skal'dajan fleet. And now, Scholar? I'll leave you be.
Written By Svana
Jan. 25, 2021, 9:36 p.m.(10/25/1014 AR)
Two matching rings in star iron. A special commission, from Whisper Anisha. She'd like a redo of the ring that I made for her in rose gold, with garnet and amethyst. Perhaps we'll try a different gemstone scheme this time. She's fond of duskstone.
Seeing people in my creations makes me so happy. I need to finish Lady Ivy's outfit, and decide what exactly I want to do for that chameleon Lady Sunaia.
Seeing people in my creations makes me so happy. I need to finish Lady Ivy's outfit, and decide what exactly I want to do for that chameleon Lady Sunaia.
Written By Piccola
Jan. 25, 2021, 8:34 p.m.(10/25/1014 AR)
Beware, wise general, of the definitions of freedom.
There are two freedoms: freedom as a means; and freedom as an end. The first is the freedom to direct one's own life and to choose between good and evil as one understands them; the second is the freedom that liberates one from one's lower nature for the service of what is highest and best. So it is that we often mean by one and the same word that initial and irrational liberty which is prior to good and evil and determines their choice or that intelligent freedom which is our final liberty in truth and goodness.
Be careful, then, of which one you imply.
There are two freedoms: freedom as a means; and freedom as an end. The first is the freedom to direct one's own life and to choose between good and evil as one understands them; the second is the freedom that liberates one from one's lower nature for the service of what is highest and best. So it is that we often mean by one and the same word that initial and irrational liberty which is prior to good and evil and determines their choice or that intelligent freedom which is our final liberty in truth and goodness.
Be careful, then, of which one you imply.
Written By Sunaia
Jan. 25, 2021, 5:20 p.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Teague
The axe is valid.
Stayed on my feet for way longer than expected -- which means I'm _improving._
Hopefully, the lesson sticks around longer than the bruises from that sparring match.
Stayed on my feet for way longer than expected -- which means I'm _improving._
Hopefully, the lesson sticks around longer than the bruises from that sparring match.
Written By Margot
Jan. 25, 2021, 3:58 p.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Ember
What a curious friend I have made. I did not expect I would enjoy your company so much.
Written By Sunaia
Jan. 25, 2021, 2:54 p.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Levian
I don't know if my new quill friend is real -- or rumor. Either way. An excellent tale-teller.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 25, 2021, 12:18 p.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
Today's tea was a lovely ginger one, with honeyed fruit. Delicate, delicious and nicely piping hot on a cool autumn evening. It was made more delicious by virtue of drinking it in good company. Marquis Fairen stopped by to discuss a few things of interest, including research projects, children, and fashion.
Written By Mabelle
Jan. 25, 2021, 10:32 a.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
My pets do not like my new jewelry. I think it is magnificent! Well done!
Written By Vashtalyn
Jan. 25, 2021, 6:39 a.m.(10/24/1014 AR)
I am enjoying my time in the city so far. People seem to like my work and I can barely keep my shop stocked. This is by no means a complaint! I am loving every moment. To see the eyes light up with joy among my patrons is reward enough. But I have also made a tidy profit.
I continue to meet many interesting people. I never know who is going to walk through the door of my shop next. I think this is my favorite part of owning a shop. All the different people that I meet. I am thinking of setting up a place in the garden out back for socializing. It will take some work to make it presentable, however. Too many weeds, and it is overgrown. The little fountain no longer works. I have kept the doors to it closed for now. Perhaps once I finish this project, I will focus my attentiin there.
Currently I am working on a thing for Count Duarte Amadeo's event to honor someone named Joscelin, who I understand was Guild Master of the Crafter's Guild, of which I am now a part. My people have a tradition of honoring the deeds of those long passed as well. I did not know this Joscelin. But I will try to honor her memory as others do.
I hope to hear stories about her, and see some of her work. I look forward to it.
I really should be getting back to work. I have a splendid gown to make.
I continue to meet many interesting people. I never know who is going to walk through the door of my shop next. I think this is my favorite part of owning a shop. All the different people that I meet. I am thinking of setting up a place in the garden out back for socializing. It will take some work to make it presentable, however. Too many weeds, and it is overgrown. The little fountain no longer works. I have kept the doors to it closed for now. Perhaps once I finish this project, I will focus my attentiin there.
Currently I am working on a thing for Count Duarte Amadeo's event to honor someone named Joscelin, who I understand was Guild Master of the Crafter's Guild, of which I am now a part. My people have a tradition of honoring the deeds of those long passed as well. I did not know this Joscelin. But I will try to honor her memory as others do.
I hope to hear stories about her, and see some of her work. I look forward to it.
I really should be getting back to work. I have a splendid gown to make.
Written By Aconite
Jan. 25, 2021, 4:17 a.m.(10/23/1014 AR)
My birthday wish this year is that everyone can find a little time to themselves. A few quiet moments to breathe and appreciate he beauty in the world before they have to face whatever is coming.
Written By Sunaia
Jan. 25, 2021, 3:57 a.m.(10/23/1014 AR)
I need to seriously reconsider a few of my life choices, Scholar Einar, I do. I could stand to learn a little more self-composure, a little more patience. Or--
Or I could replace them with life choices that are much more fun. Like, say, making the choice to start to collect a weapon made of each specialty metal the Compact has to offer.
See, fun? Fun AND practical.
Or I could replace them with life choices that are much more fun. Like, say, making the choice to start to collect a weapon made of each specialty metal the Compact has to offer.
See, fun? Fun AND practical.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.