Written By Dio
Dec. 9, 2020, 9:08 a.m.(7/14/1014 AR)
It was well chosen, the island hideout where the small fleet moored. They carried weapons, textiles and luxurious furniture - gifts from Skal'daja to their minions in the Saffron: a warm meal offered to those used to feeding on rats, so as to make them forget for a moment the chains about their throats. To wait for a moonless night was to risk losing our prey, and so The Osprey became a merchant vessel of Jay'alaz, and The Wavedancer played their customary role as Seraceni pirates.
The bait was too enticing not to swallow. Their galley made for The Wavedancer, while their longships made to encircle both vessels, to prevent any chance of escape. Only when we could hear the shouts across the water, did the Osprey unfurl the black flag of Ischia, and fire on the approaching galley. The contest might have been a close one, but the pirate of opportunity is not an equal match to the Seraceni sailor, whose culture from its beginning is devoted to maritime raids and the thrill of plunder. By the time they noticed The Runner coming in from the East, one of the longships had already attempted to risk a contest of speed rather than arms.
The fighting did not last long, and the many who surrendered were offered their choice. In addition to goods, we acquired what information we could on Skal'daja's fleet, but my sister's expertise in extracting information was sorely missed. As Lord Ciro had mentioned a venture involving a distillery that sounded intriguing and risky - qualities upon which my cousin has expert knowledge, I set sail then for Ischia, and prepared letters to deliver what intelligence we'd gleaned for Prince Sebastian and Princess Lucrezia.
The bait was too enticing not to swallow. Their galley made for The Wavedancer, while their longships made to encircle both vessels, to prevent any chance of escape. Only when we could hear the shouts across the water, did the Osprey unfurl the black flag of Ischia, and fire on the approaching galley. The contest might have been a close one, but the pirate of opportunity is not an equal match to the Seraceni sailor, whose culture from its beginning is devoted to maritime raids and the thrill of plunder. By the time they noticed The Runner coming in from the East, one of the longships had already attempted to risk a contest of speed rather than arms.
The fighting did not last long, and the many who surrendered were offered their choice. In addition to goods, we acquired what information we could on Skal'daja's fleet, but my sister's expertise in extracting information was sorely missed. As Lord Ciro had mentioned a venture involving a distillery that sounded intriguing and risky - qualities upon which my cousin has expert knowledge, I set sail then for Ischia, and prepared letters to deliver what intelligence we'd gleaned for Prince Sebastian and Princess Lucrezia.
Written By Niklas
Dec. 9, 2020, 2:43 a.m.(7/13/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sabella
Always and forever.
Written By Riagnon
Dec. 8, 2020, 11:22 p.m.(7/13/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Kenna
It's terribly important for a healthy marriage to always be of use to one's spouse. Even if that means letting her take up residence in your wardrobe for an undisclosed period of time in order to avoid her social responsibilities.
Written By Svana
Dec. 8, 2020, 9:09 p.m.(7/13/1014 AR)
It's always impressive to me when men think of their wives as nothing more than ways to procreate and have more progeny, but it's Prodigals who are the barbaric ones.
Written By Delilah
Dec. 8, 2020, 4:09 p.m.(7/12/1014 AR)
On the off chance a letter reaches a distant and rarely observed correspondent, may it not be met with contempt or disinterest.
So many miles to travel and countless more to go, small gifts nonetheless might be found.
So many miles to travel and countless more to go, small gifts nonetheless might be found.
Written By Mabelle
Dec. 8, 2020, 1:17 p.m.(7/12/1014 AR)
The nightmares have returned. The screams, the ripping, the howls, the scent of blood. It all feels real again. Just like that day when we thought we had a choice. That we made the right one. We made the inevitable one.
What do you do when you learn that no matter what you choose, you lose?
No matter who you're trying to protect, everyone dies anyway?
What do you do when that's the notion you get about things you thought are left in the past when the future is filled with you having to make such decisions again?
I have lost my valor. I shall have to find it again.
What do you do when you learn that no matter what you choose, you lose?
No matter who you're trying to protect, everyone dies anyway?
What do you do when that's the notion you get about things you thought are left in the past when the future is filled with you having to make such decisions again?
I have lost my valor. I shall have to find it again.
Written By Lustry
Dec. 8, 2020, 1:07 p.m.(7/12/1014 AR)
So far my arrival within Arx has been absolutely lovely. My room is all painted as I like it. I have recieved a few offers for proteges and have decided to take up one of them and still interviewing for others. I am very excited about my passion projects and future adventures. Now I just need to find where I will want to host a rum contest and what to have as a prize for the winner. And other judges of course. I would welcome suggestions upon location and fellow judges should any have them, please do send them by missive.
Written By Porter
Dec. 8, 2020, 7:42 a.m.(7/12/1014 AR)
I was perusing the white journals of several close friends when I came across what I can only describe as slanderous words levied against ships! That they smell! I mean, I suppose they do to some degree. But that's never bothered me. Still, I feel it's my duty to defend all of shipkind in this most treacherous development!
Come here and say my ship smells like waterlogged wood and fish to her face, sir.
Or whereabouts a face may be found.
Also the mint's name is Shawn and he's doing quite well, for now. Though I may need to place a glass dome over his pot lest he rise up against me in the night and cause a mutiny. A person should always be prepared for any sort of eventuality.
Come here and say my ship smells like waterlogged wood and fish to her face, sir.
Or whereabouts a face may be found.
Also the mint's name is Shawn and he's doing quite well, for now. Though I may need to place a glass dome over his pot lest he rise up against me in the night and cause a mutiny. A person should always be prepared for any sort of eventuality.
Written By Jyri
Dec. 8, 2020, 6:28 a.m.(7/12/1014 AR)
I can not fully express my admiration for Princess Sabella and her organisational skills, her social skills, and the ability to keep track of a social event like she is literally hovering overhead like a buzzard.
I am also thoroughly touched by all generous donations and by generous bids, that saw a large chunk of money brought in to the restoration of the Cathedral.
I am also thoroughly touched by all generous donations and by generous bids, that saw a large chunk of money brought in to the restoration of the Cathedral.
Written By Medeia
Dec. 8, 2020, 1:38 a.m.(7/11/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortescue
Some five years ago, while visiting Southport to do some work with Lord Martino Malvici on behalf of House Saik, I had the wonderful fortune of meeting Fortescue Antoni. I couldn't tell you now what it was we initially bonded over - wine snobbery? our fabulous outfits? some joke at Martino's expense? - but it was enough to span the distance when I returned to Saikland. Over the years, we remained close through correspondence and my occasional visits to Southport. When I came to Arx, it quickly became apparent that I would need a personal assistant to help me manage all of my various duties, and, one day while trying to decide who to hire for the task, Martino had the brilliant idea to call Fortescue to the city, too.
And I can say: It has been wonderful. We've accomplished a lot together. Having him at my side has made existing in the city so much easier. Which is why I can also say: The last week has been hard. Scholar, the opportunity arose for him to be promoted into House Saik proper as steward. How could I have said no? He deserves the chance to have some authority. Gods know, stewarding the whole house will likely be a reprieve from being my assistant.
And I can say: It has been wonderful. We've accomplished a lot together. Having him at my side has made existing in the city so much easier. Which is why I can also say: The last week has been hard. Scholar, the opportunity arose for him to be promoted into House Saik proper as steward. How could I have said no? He deserves the chance to have some authority. Gods know, stewarding the whole house will likely be a reprieve from being my assistant.
Written By Raja
Dec. 7, 2020, 11:24 p.m.(7/11/1014 AR)
I have a confession. Sometimes when the night is warm and quiet, I like to stand in front of my mirror and put on pretty things. I wonder what life could have been like if things were different. I spend so much of my time being this hard woman. I have to be. I don't regret it. I simply wonder what it would be like if I weren't? What if I was soft? What if I was a princess? Well. I am not. But, it is nice to think of what could have been.
Written By Macario
Dec. 7, 2020, 10:13 p.m.(7/11/1014 AR)
I recently gifted a botanical wonderment to a dear friend. I hope I didn't go too far. Caring for things is a commitment.
It is a wonderful grouping of plants. I picked them myself. I fear that friend isn't taking good care of the plant, though. I hope I didn't push them into a commitment they themselves weren't ready for. And clearly they are not getting the help they need to care for the plant.
Might I sneak into their dwelling to replace the waterlogged plant with a fresh one? It seems the decent thing to do. Because if they kill the plant, they'd hardly be able to forgive themselves. Okay, well, maybe they'd forgive themselves just fine... but it would certainly be awkward if I showed up at their dwelling and the plant was dead. Or worst, we just ignore that the plant ever existed. That would be tragic.
It is, I should admit, a rather thoughtful gift. Mint is a perfect addition to any ship. You see, the problem with ships is the smell. Soaked oak. Sea. Wet fish. And mint pretty much overpowers all those smells. Plus, if infused with vodka, it ensures what they are drinking isn't entirely flavourless. Benefits all around.
It is a wonderful grouping of plants. I picked them myself. I fear that friend isn't taking good care of the plant, though. I hope I didn't push them into a commitment they themselves weren't ready for. And clearly they are not getting the help they need to care for the plant.
Might I sneak into their dwelling to replace the waterlogged plant with a fresh one? It seems the decent thing to do. Because if they kill the plant, they'd hardly be able to forgive themselves. Okay, well, maybe they'd forgive themselves just fine... but it would certainly be awkward if I showed up at their dwelling and the plant was dead. Or worst, we just ignore that the plant ever existed. That would be tragic.
It is, I should admit, a rather thoughtful gift. Mint is a perfect addition to any ship. You see, the problem with ships is the smell. Soaked oak. Sea. Wet fish. And mint pretty much overpowers all those smells. Plus, if infused with vodka, it ensures what they are drinking isn't entirely flavourless. Benefits all around.
Written By Medeia
Dec. 7, 2020, 6:55 p.m.(7/11/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Svana
Scholar, I am a woman of my word.
Svana Grayhope had twins. I humbly admit that I was wrong. And, the second born of this set of twins will have their formal education paid for by me.
Svana Grayhope had twins. I humbly admit that I was wrong. And, the second born of this set of twins will have their formal education paid for by me.
Written By Tanith
Dec. 7, 2020, 4:41 p.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
Well, I said I was retired but it's for a good cause to peek out, yeah? One more Breadcrumb book. An epilogue. To be bid on at the auction for the cathedral.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Written By Venturo
Dec. 7, 2020, 2:54 p.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Sloane
My new protege, whom, I dare say, will make quite a splash within Arx - and across all of Arvum. If you ever find yourself curious about what the Raconteur or Kismet carnivals might offer you for various occasions, don't hesitate to reach out to Ms. Starling. I promise, any excuse for a meeting with her will be time well spent.
Written By Tanith
Dec. 7, 2020, 1:01 p.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
I smell like lemon-blueberry cake. Why do I-
Oh.
Lesson to the future generations of bakers: do -not- partake of haze-soaked tarts while within three feet of an oven.
There's cake fucking everywhere. Did I do this -by myself-?
My spatula is balanced on a rafter. How ...?
Oh.
Lesson to the future generations of bakers: do -not- partake of haze-soaked tarts while within three feet of an oven.
There's cake fucking everywhere. Did I do this -by myself-?
My spatula is balanced on a rafter. How ...?
Written By Aureth
Dec. 7, 2020, 1:01 p.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
In getting myself installed into the chambers of the Dominus, as part of my new role as Seraph of Arx, I was inspired to begin a new tradition. The inspiration came from viewing the Dominus's traditional dining room, which has a set of six chairs around a formal dining table. I believe that recurring small dinners with a selection of guests from all about the city are in order, and I have spoken with the Rectory cooks, who seem delighted with the idea as an opportunity to refresh their creativity on new palates (it makes sense ... with as many mouths to feed as we have traditionally at mealtimes in the Rectory I believe they would get tired of making so many stews).
One thing that my predecessor never really had enough time to do was exercise his social calendar on behalf of the Church. I think it was a matter of some regret for him, with so many crises and meetings and disciplinary issues to juggle. I expect that I will be similarly buried, and yet - I wish to embrace the parts of our teachings that elevate all souls, and I do think that people from many different houses and backgrounds will have much to learn from each other.
One thing that my predecessor never really had enough time to do was exercise his social calendar on behalf of the Church. I think it was a matter of some regret for him, with so many crises and meetings and disciplinary issues to juggle. I expect that I will be similarly buried, and yet - I wish to embrace the parts of our teachings that elevate all souls, and I do think that people from many different houses and backgrounds will have much to learn from each other.
Written By Delilah
Dec. 7, 2020, 11:33 a.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
Here we are, tested again and anew. I do not think the mettle of our courage or inspiration will fail.
It will not be easy, and there are dark clouds driven before us. On this dark night, I cleave to hope.
It will not be easy, and there are dark clouds driven before us. On this dark night, I cleave to hope.
Written By Piccola
Dec. 7, 2020, 8:38 a.m.(7/10/1014 AR)
Wise general, understand forgiveness.
Forgiveness means you should not develop feelings of revenge. Revenge means to harm another; it is a form of violence. With violence, there is usually counterviolence. This generates even more violence, so the problem never goes away. But always remember that you are an expert in dealing violence: not as the swordsman, whose blade kills, or the archer, whose arrows impale, but as the commander who must order her swordsmen and archers to deliver death. The harm to them -- death deals harm to both parties -- is your responsibility to bear.
Forgiveness means you should try not to develop feelings of anger toward your enemy. Anger solves nothing: it often brings uncomfortable feelings to yourself. Anger destroys your own peace of mind. Anger will blur your vision or shut your eyes; it will blind you to what is important. But always remember that you are responsible for what happens in your heart. Violence does not always lead to anger; violence may be committed by the most serene and under the epitome of calculations. Command without anger and be not be afraid of violence.
Forgiveness is not absolution. The rabbit does not hate the fox for hunting it, and the fox does not seek the rabbit's forgiveness for killing it. The rose does not despite the winter for taking its petals; the winter does not ask for absolution for what is in its nature. Your enemies stand against everything for which you believe, but that does not mean you must hate them or that you cannot forgive them; rather, forgive them for who they are, for what they cannot change, and crush them inexorable as a rolling boulder does the earth beneath it.
And then forgive yourself.
Forgiveness means you should not develop feelings of revenge. Revenge means to harm another; it is a form of violence. With violence, there is usually counterviolence. This generates even more violence, so the problem never goes away. But always remember that you are an expert in dealing violence: not as the swordsman, whose blade kills, or the archer, whose arrows impale, but as the commander who must order her swordsmen and archers to deliver death. The harm to them -- death deals harm to both parties -- is your responsibility to bear.
Forgiveness means you should try not to develop feelings of anger toward your enemy. Anger solves nothing: it often brings uncomfortable feelings to yourself. Anger destroys your own peace of mind. Anger will blur your vision or shut your eyes; it will blind you to what is important. But always remember that you are responsible for what happens in your heart. Violence does not always lead to anger; violence may be committed by the most serene and under the epitome of calculations. Command without anger and be not be afraid of violence.
Forgiveness is not absolution. The rabbit does not hate the fox for hunting it, and the fox does not seek the rabbit's forgiveness for killing it. The rose does not despite the winter for taking its petals; the winter does not ask for absolution for what is in its nature. Your enemies stand against everything for which you believe, but that does not mean you must hate them or that you cannot forgive them; rather, forgive them for who they are, for what they cannot change, and crush them inexorable as a rolling boulder does the earth beneath it.
And then forgive yourself.
Written By Patrizio
Dec. 6, 2020, 11:32 p.m.(7/9/1014 AR)
A few short months ago, I thought myself insane for having volunteered to play tactician to my cousin Lucrezia. I, a knight, a soldier on land... suggesting that I could help with tactics for an accomplished naval commander and daughter of my greatest role model. It seemed insanity, truly, but as Sir Tiberio would've pointed out, the one who dares is the one who succeeds.
It would seem that fate - and my cousins - have decided my talents lie elsewhere. I've been appointed General of the First Legion of Setarco.
May Gloria smile upon us and grant success against the looming Skal'dajan threat.
It would seem that fate - and my cousins - have decided my talents lie elsewhere. I've been appointed General of the First Legion of Setarco.
May Gloria smile upon us and grant success against the looming Skal'dajan threat.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.