Written By Aconite
Jan. 21, 2021, 8:40 a.m.(10/16/1014 AR)
A question asked of me the other day has had me thinking...
I was not quite twelve when I met Uudi, the woman who taught me how to fashion my hair in my favorite style. I was at the market seeking something pretty, some small bauble to buy with my earnings when I stumbled upon some rare traders from Eurus who were there to sell their goods.
Beside myself, I hurried to them and without thinking began to speak to them in their native tongue. After a moment of surprise it was the old woman, Uudi, who began to talk back with me.
I was curious. I wanted to know so much.. too much.. a condition I still suffer from. Uudi only laughed and while I know she never told me much of Eurus but she told me much about her family.
Uudi was ancient, so far as I could tell back then, missing a few teeth with short white hair cropped close to her head and so many wrinkles I would never have been able to tell how she felt. That is if it weren't for the bright jade eyes that always sparkled with laughter and a small sweet voice that made me feel welcomed.
When I asked about her hair she told me she had grown too old and her hair too thin for the magnificent styles she favored. I was, of course, bubbling with curiosity and so I asked her what they were but rather than tell me. She offered to show me...
For hours that seemed far too short, I sat with Uudi, while hands with skin as worn and scarred as leather and knotted knuckles that must have hurt while so worked through my hair.
Patiently with comb and fingers, she wove my hair into many coils while telling me of her daughters and their children. The stories never told me much of their life only of the people. And hummed songs to me in wordless homage to where she called home. I never thought to question her, nor if the stories were real or made simply to make me smile. I could not stop.
This happened many times, every few days for the few weeks a year she was in Tor, for the few years she came. I would come seeking a new comb or one of her brilliantly patterned pouches or skirts. I would close my eyes and listen to Uudi talk and pretend just for a few moments that she was my Grandmother too. That the people she spoke of were my family as she smoothed and twisted each coil, so enrapt that barely noted any tug or snarl.
The last year Uudi and I spent time together is when she taught me to fashion the styles for myself with careful patient warmth and laughter to soothe my frustrations when my early attempts failed. Patiently she taught me each technique until I could do each almost as good as she did..
The next year I could not find her. I wondered often what happened to her but try as I might I could not feel sorrow that she was no longer there. Only gratitude for what time I had had and what she had taught me.
I wonder sometimes if that is part o why I like the markets so or if that is why I have always seen a merchants wares as a part of who they are. That I am wearing a part of them and being a vessel for expression in this world. Just like I wonder if this is my favorite hairstyle because it is so terribly practical or because it's an expression of everything one ancient Eurusi trader gave me in so very few but precious moments.
I was not quite twelve when I met Uudi, the woman who taught me how to fashion my hair in my favorite style. I was at the market seeking something pretty, some small bauble to buy with my earnings when I stumbled upon some rare traders from Eurus who were there to sell their goods.
Beside myself, I hurried to them and without thinking began to speak to them in their native tongue. After a moment of surprise it was the old woman, Uudi, who began to talk back with me.
I was curious. I wanted to know so much.. too much.. a condition I still suffer from. Uudi only laughed and while I know she never told me much of Eurus but she told me much about her family.
Uudi was ancient, so far as I could tell back then, missing a few teeth with short white hair cropped close to her head and so many wrinkles I would never have been able to tell how she felt. That is if it weren't for the bright jade eyes that always sparkled with laughter and a small sweet voice that made me feel welcomed.
When I asked about her hair she told me she had grown too old and her hair too thin for the magnificent styles she favored. I was, of course, bubbling with curiosity and so I asked her what they were but rather than tell me. She offered to show me...
For hours that seemed far too short, I sat with Uudi, while hands with skin as worn and scarred as leather and knotted knuckles that must have hurt while so worked through my hair.
Patiently with comb and fingers, she wove my hair into many coils while telling me of her daughters and their children. The stories never told me much of their life only of the people. And hummed songs to me in wordless homage to where she called home. I never thought to question her, nor if the stories were real or made simply to make me smile. I could not stop.
This happened many times, every few days for the few weeks a year she was in Tor, for the few years she came. I would come seeking a new comb or one of her brilliantly patterned pouches or skirts. I would close my eyes and listen to Uudi talk and pretend just for a few moments that she was my Grandmother too. That the people she spoke of were my family as she smoothed and twisted each coil, so enrapt that barely noted any tug or snarl.
The last year Uudi and I spent time together is when she taught me to fashion the styles for myself with careful patient warmth and laughter to soothe my frustrations when my early attempts failed. Patiently she taught me each technique until I could do each almost as good as she did..
The next year I could not find her. I wondered often what happened to her but try as I might I could not feel sorrow that she was no longer there. Only gratitude for what time I had had and what she had taught me.
I wonder sometimes if that is part o why I like the markets so or if that is why I have always seen a merchants wares as a part of who they are. That I am wearing a part of them and being a vessel for expression in this world. Just like I wonder if this is my favorite hairstyle because it is so terribly practical or because it's an expression of everything one ancient Eurusi trader gave me in so very few but precious moments.
Written By Ramona
Jan. 20, 2021, 5:27 p.m.(10/14/1014 AR)
We must look at where we are and who we are, now, in this moment. The 'what-if' is a dangerous distraction. We must replace it with what-can and what-will.
Written By Raziel
Jan. 20, 2021, 2:41 p.m.(10/14/1014 AR)
His Majesty, King Alaric III Grayson.
I remember a time when these words were spoken by more than the supporters of foreign invasion. I remember when he received my oath as King's Own. I remember when he released me from it.
But such is the way of service to the Crown. It is not the head that bears it that commands such loyalty. It is the station itself.
The names may change. The Compact remains.
I remember a time when these words were spoken by more than the supporters of foreign invasion. I remember when he received my oath as King's Own. I remember when he released me from it.
But such is the way of service to the Crown. It is not the head that bears it that commands such loyalty. It is the station itself.
The names may change. The Compact remains.
Written By Svana
Jan. 20, 2021, 10:22 a.m.(10/14/1014 AR)
I am so pleased that people have come to me for designing scents! It's such a passion of mine, and I love seeing peoples' faces when they smell a scent for the first time and it's something that encapsulates their essence. I was worried that people would not take me seriously as an artist for being known for scents when I'm a Master Tailor, but I have many talents. It's not my fault if people don't see all of them.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 20, 2021, 8:27 a.m.(10/14/1014 AR)
I do appreciate the interesting games that different cultures play. I might be terrible at the game, but that doesn't mean I can't learn to be better.
Well.
I can certainly try.
I have to say it was lovely to visit a bit with some of my friends from Valardin, folks I really must make an effort to spend more time with. Oathlands hospitality stands strong.
Just please don't ask me about any wheelbarrows.
Well.
I can certainly try.
I have to say it was lovely to visit a bit with some of my friends from Valardin, folks I really must make an effort to spend more time with. Oathlands hospitality stands strong.
Just please don't ask me about any wheelbarrows.
Written By Felicia
Jan. 20, 2021, 8:05 a.m.(10/14/1014 AR)
It is a sad thing, that we face the prospect of an attempted invasion from our former King. That where the Compact could be made mightier with the inclusion of a free Dune Kingdom we face a conqueror against his own people. Instead of rejoicing for the Compact's achievements under the guidance of his son we face a greater threat than those who have come before.
I mourn for those who are going to be forced to fight us under the influence of Mutay'a'sib and his Magisters. I mourn for the lives that will be lost in this conflict- but the guidance of the Faith is clear. Our oaths to Alaric IV take primacy, and for the sake of the future of the Compact we cannot consign ourselves to chains even when the one extending them is our former liege.
I pray that he might yet come to his senses, even as I prepare for war. My duty is clear, but this is a war I do not relish. May those who die return to the Wheel swiftly, and Mother willing, be reborn in peaceful times.
I mourn for those who are going to be forced to fight us under the influence of Mutay'a'sib and his Magisters. I mourn for the lives that will be lost in this conflict- but the guidance of the Faith is clear. Our oaths to Alaric IV take primacy, and for the sake of the future of the Compact we cannot consign ourselves to chains even when the one extending them is our former liege.
I pray that he might yet come to his senses, even as I prepare for war. My duty is clear, but this is a war I do not relish. May those who die return to the Wheel swiftly, and Mother willing, be reborn in peaceful times.
Written By Medeia
Jan. 20, 2021, 12:56 a.m.(10/13/1014 AR)
The bandages bracing my knee and wrist come off in the next day or so, and I'll be glad for being able to maneuver stairs properly again. Also, for being able to get out of the house (the one visit I made across the square required a carriage; absurd, but true). Ironic that doing the things that needed to be done is what now prevents me from doing the things that need to be done. I have meetings to hold, plans to set in motion, events to host!
This time cooped up has given me too much time to think about my parents. I usually tend to forget they exist most days, until something will remind me and I'll have a pang of sadness or jealousy or anger. And then I start to worry about me as a parent. I love children; I'm excellent with babies, and plenty of people have voiced their belief I'd be a good mother. I know I can care for them. But caring for and parenting are very different things. Aren't they? Can one be a good parent and not care for their children, or care for their children and be a terrible parent? It makes me wonder if my mother and father still care. I've been encouraged, twice or more times now, to write that letter to my mother so I don't come to regret not doing it. I don't even know if I expect a response.
Gods. I pray when I have children that I never make them question that they are loved, never make them feel cast out, never choose someone who hurt them over them. Sometimes I think uncle Razi had the right idea becoming Godsworn, not having to worry about marriage and children. But, I also remember a time not too long ago when I was afraid marriage would be the worst fate and turned up my nose - so far, I was blessedly wrong. Perhaps my fear of being a terrible mother will prove baseless, too.
I really need to get out of the house.
This time cooped up has given me too much time to think about my parents. I usually tend to forget they exist most days, until something will remind me and I'll have a pang of sadness or jealousy or anger. And then I start to worry about me as a parent. I love children; I'm excellent with babies, and plenty of people have voiced their belief I'd be a good mother. I know I can care for them. But caring for and parenting are very different things. Aren't they? Can one be a good parent and not care for their children, or care for their children and be a terrible parent? It makes me wonder if my mother and father still care. I've been encouraged, twice or more times now, to write that letter to my mother so I don't come to regret not doing it. I don't even know if I expect a response.
Gods. I pray when I have children that I never make them question that they are loved, never make them feel cast out, never choose someone who hurt them over them. Sometimes I think uncle Razi had the right idea becoming Godsworn, not having to worry about marriage and children. But, I also remember a time not too long ago when I was afraid marriage would be the worst fate and turned up my nose - so far, I was blessedly wrong. Perhaps my fear of being a terrible mother will prove baseless, too.
I really need to get out of the house.
Written By Natasha
Jan. 19, 2021, 11:04 p.m.(10/13/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Alistair
I must be having a prolonged fever dream today, because I thought I saw the High Inquisitor smile.
And this was after I thought I somehow set him on fire, then tried to smother him with my coat.
And this was after I thought I somehow set him on fire, then tried to smother him with my coat.
Written By Emberly
Jan. 19, 2021, 10:36 p.m.(10/13/1014 AR)
Ode to Duty,
Duty of honor
Duty of sword
Duty of house
Duty of word.
Duty to God
Duty to Love,
Duty to Truth,
Duty, that none can afford.
Ode to Duty,
where all else fails.
Its Duty to one's self
where Duty prevails.
What is Duty
but a call so true
when judgment falls through.
What is Duty
but a footstep in the sand
a steadfast ship ready to sail.
a knights weapon in hand.
Hold true to your Duty.
Hold strong, Hold fast
For only Duty stays until
the very last.
Duty of honor
Duty of sword
Duty of house
Duty of word.
Duty to God
Duty to Love,
Duty to Truth,
Duty, that none can afford.
Ode to Duty,
where all else fails.
Its Duty to one's self
where Duty prevails.
What is Duty
but a call so true
when judgment falls through.
What is Duty
but a footstep in the sand
a steadfast ship ready to sail.
a knights weapon in hand.
Hold true to your Duty.
Hold strong, Hold fast
For only Duty stays until
the very last.
Written By Piccola
Jan. 19, 2021, 8:17 p.m.(10/13/1014 AR)
From afar, I remember seeing the City in its splendor.
I saw the efforts of generations of countless people to change the land into something crafted. Of stone, of steel, of timber and construction, of all the hallmarks of that which the Compact holds against its neighbors and its less-fortunate denizens, all creating a small space in which to crowd. I witnessed the expressions of ingenuity and might looming tall to cast shadows across the nearby fields, as the sun dipped low towards the horizon. But none of this could shut out the inexorable coming of the spring, just as the night cannot stop the dawn.
The sun shone; the grass revived; and the animals and insects which shielded themselves from the deadly days of winter slowly made their way out. And everything seemed to be all right once more, even as men manufactured from behind those walls the means of their own captivity.
I saw the efforts of generations of countless people to change the land into something crafted. Of stone, of steel, of timber and construction, of all the hallmarks of that which the Compact holds against its neighbors and its less-fortunate denizens, all creating a small space in which to crowd. I witnessed the expressions of ingenuity and might looming tall to cast shadows across the nearby fields, as the sun dipped low towards the horizon. But none of this could shut out the inexorable coming of the spring, just as the night cannot stop the dawn.
The sun shone; the grass revived; and the animals and insects which shielded themselves from the deadly days of winter slowly made their way out. And everything seemed to be all right once more, even as men manufactured from behind those walls the means of their own captivity.
Written By Ivy
Jan. 19, 2021, 4 p.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Malcolm
It's good work. For the person that lacked the funds, or the materials, it could be life or death.
Never let anyone belittle your charity, not even you.
Never let anyone belittle your charity, not even you.
Written By Iseulet
Jan. 19, 2021, 11:55 a.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
I absolutely must find a cake for a new friend.
It cannot be just any old cake but the most amazing cake in the whole of Arvum.
I'm going to be pestering bakers for the foreseeable future for something spectacular.
Something so delicious it can melt a heart of ice. I wonder if such a cake exists.
It cannot be just any old cake but the most amazing cake in the whole of Arvum.
I'm going to be pestering bakers for the foreseeable future for something spectacular.
Something so delicious it can melt a heart of ice. I wonder if such a cake exists.
Written By Dio
Jan. 19, 2021, 10:19 a.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Tatyana
Our mission in the Isle of Markets hinged on Lady Tatyana Grimhall's ability to forge a legal code capable of managing extremely disparate elements of a large port in the Saffron Chain: Seraceni and Pravosi importers and exporters, prodigal craftsfolk, smugglers, pirates returning with plunder, and local agricultural traders. Anne had grumbled about the quantity of tomes Lady Grimhall brought aboard The Osprey that had to be stored in water tight containers - but those efforts were not in vain.
Lord Ciro and Lord Orland were able to convince a number of influential traders to share much about the markets with Lady Tatyana. From this, and carefully following precedent - both in the traditions of Ischia as well as those used elsewhere in the Lyceum, the Mourning Isles and the Compact - she carefully constructed laws that promised fairness and prosperity to many. Such laws were sorely needed in the Isle of Markets, where warring factions squeezed all they could from the people, lining their own pockets until they were swallowed by some vicious rival. For too long the governors of Seraceni had turned a blind eye to the port, in order to defend against the Gray Woman and the Skal'dajans, but with Lady Tatyana's laws, there is a new order - one that respects the spirit of Ischia and House Seraceni, leaving the greatest share of freedom, with severe consequences for those who violate what the oaths of our vassals and traders must hold sacred.
I had the privilege of visiting Duchess Vanora and Lady Tatyana with Lord Orland. It is no secret that I hold House Grimhall in high esteem as a seafaring House who has weathered the storms of change with dignity, intelligence, and resilience. The hospitality and company of the Duchess of Grihem's Point is a great pleasure, and I was happy to share with her the accomplishments of her kin. In company, Lady Tatyana is the perfect exemplar of Thraxian nobility, but if one manages to catch her in the right moment, one finds wit, good humor, and courage. It is little wonder, after getting to know Lady Tatyana, that the nobility of the Compact are so inclined to seek unions with the scions of House Grimhall.
Lord Ciro and Lord Orland were able to convince a number of influential traders to share much about the markets with Lady Tatyana. From this, and carefully following precedent - both in the traditions of Ischia as well as those used elsewhere in the Lyceum, the Mourning Isles and the Compact - she carefully constructed laws that promised fairness and prosperity to many. Such laws were sorely needed in the Isle of Markets, where warring factions squeezed all they could from the people, lining their own pockets until they were swallowed by some vicious rival. For too long the governors of Seraceni had turned a blind eye to the port, in order to defend against the Gray Woman and the Skal'dajans, but with Lady Tatyana's laws, there is a new order - one that respects the spirit of Ischia and House Seraceni, leaving the greatest share of freedom, with severe consequences for those who violate what the oaths of our vassals and traders must hold sacred.
I had the privilege of visiting Duchess Vanora and Lady Tatyana with Lord Orland. It is no secret that I hold House Grimhall in high esteem as a seafaring House who has weathered the storms of change with dignity, intelligence, and resilience. The hospitality and company of the Duchess of Grihem's Point is a great pleasure, and I was happy to share with her the accomplishments of her kin. In company, Lady Tatyana is the perfect exemplar of Thraxian nobility, but if one manages to catch her in the right moment, one finds wit, good humor, and courage. It is little wonder, after getting to know Lady Tatyana, that the nobility of the Compact are so inclined to seek unions with the scions of House Grimhall.
Written By Malcolm
Jan. 19, 2021, 9:11 a.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
-- saw to it that a few of the Compact's own had the funds they needed for proper gear, before they are needing to go about the business of doing the hard work.
It's easy work, I think, to sit behind the desk and sign off on notes to make sure folk have their leathers or diamondplate.
Still, hope it's good work.
All I ever wanted to do is good work.
It's easy work, I think, to sit behind the desk and sign off on notes to make sure folk have their leathers or diamondplate.
Still, hope it's good work.
All I ever wanted to do is good work.
Written By Lianne
Jan. 19, 2021, 7:20 a.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
As a rule of thumb, when faced with the incomprehensible: ask.
Written By Apollo
Jan. 19, 2021, 6:09 a.m.(10/12/1014 AR)
A Whisper I am, then.
Written By Monique
Jan. 19, 2021, 3:22 a.m.(10/11/1014 AR)
On making amends. I have done this in my life. Set aside pride and ego to apologize, and that is an exceptionally difficult thing for me. But every time, it has been worth it. Never squander such rare opportunities.
Written By Savio
Jan. 18, 2021, 11:47 p.m.(10/11/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Dio
Some fool named Borios tried to scam the Marquis, trying to sell him tin arrowheads. Can you imagine?
As was sung in a tavern in Pieros:
Come and hear a warning, boys
About a man trying to sell tin toys
'Ah, arrowheads! Won't you buy so many
Noble lord of Seraceni?'
You shouldn't try to roll a lord
Who's sharp with his wits and sharper with a sword
That man's learned a lesson, I grant
Now he'll have to change his pants
Be honest and we'll get along just fine
Pravosi are lovely and our coin's divine
Try to sell shit as something glorious?
Best think twice or we'll do you like Borios.
As was sung in a tavern in Pieros:
Come and hear a warning, boys
About a man trying to sell tin toys
'Ah, arrowheads! Won't you buy so many
Noble lord of Seraceni?'
You shouldn't try to roll a lord
Who's sharp with his wits and sharper with a sword
That man's learned a lesson, I grant
Now he'll have to change his pants
Be honest and we'll get along just fine
Pravosi are lovely and our coin's divine
Try to sell shit as something glorious?
Best think twice or we'll do you like Borios.
Written By Savio
Jan. 18, 2021, 11:41 p.m.(10/11/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Zakhar
As was sung in a tavern in Pieros:
Do you know Zakhar? Well you ought to, hey
He's a tough old man tryin' to convey
Something I don't know through a righteous accent
I think I got what he more or less meant?
He's a generous man, here's the shirt off his back
Did you know it's also one he's craft?
That's right friends, he works leather too
Whatever you want, Zakhar can do
Of course my favorite part, sets my heart ablaze
Is that man's ALWAYS got some haze
No stems no sticks no seeds it's potent
So much I forgot where my inn keys went
Do you know Zakhar? Well you ought to, alright
He's had an interesting life and he's good in a fight
Sure half the time we don't know what he said
But there's nobody better to listen to instead!
Do you know Zakhar? Well you ought to, hey
He's a tough old man tryin' to convey
Something I don't know through a righteous accent
I think I got what he more or less meant?
He's a generous man, here's the shirt off his back
Did you know it's also one he's craft?
That's right friends, he works leather too
Whatever you want, Zakhar can do
Of course my favorite part, sets my heart ablaze
Is that man's ALWAYS got some haze
No stems no sticks no seeds it's potent
So much I forgot where my inn keys went
Do you know Zakhar? Well you ought to, alright
He's had an interesting life and he's good in a fight
Sure half the time we don't know what he said
But there's nobody better to listen to instead!
Written By Reigna
Jan. 18, 2021, 11:31 p.m.(10/11/1014 AR)
What possesses people to do things that defy any hint of logic or sense? I cannot comprehend the arrogance it takes to believe that one can defy the logical order of things and expect to ... what? Simply smile past the condemnation of their peers? Do they honestly think that by completely abandoning the traditions and standards of our society they will face no backlash? Do they not see how gravely, deeply insulting that is for the rest of us?
I have begun to wonder what can be done. I am so deeply disappointed.
I have begun to wonder what can be done. I am so deeply disappointed.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.