Written By Felicia
July 1, 2019, 6:48 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Disappointed that I missed out on Ida's hairpins honoring Death, though I confess that I snapped up a beautiful collection of gowns for my sisters at Whispering Words. It is lovely to see so many elements honoring the Mother about the city of late.
Written By Sina
July 1, 2019, 5:18 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Last night, the Vellichorian Academy hosted the representatives of Cardia to answer some of your questions. Previously, we hosted the Emissary from the Undying Empire. Now that we have had a chance to hear from both of these representatives in great detail, I would like to take some time to discuss this in more detail. I understand there have been many wondering why we would do such a thing, when the ideals of these foreign cultures are so different from our own. And much of it has to do with what I mentioned in my previous journal entry, regarding truth.
Prince Alecestazi does have a point, in that truth often seems based on one's perspective. We see a prime example of this in the views of our foreign visitors. We Arvani see things from one perspective. The Undying Empire may see it from another. And Cardia sees the situation from their own point of view. But somewhere within these three viewpoints, there is truth. We need not abandon our Faith to view it. Indeed, our Faith requires that we seek knowledge, even unto considering viewpoints that are different from our own. Vellichor's Psalms state clearly,
"A hungry mind is an open mind.
When the mind is closed and says 'This cannot be', it will never learn.
Yet when truth is held before the closed mind, it cannot allow truth to stand.
The closed mind will act against the truth to erase it from the world.
The closed mind will seek to make the world in its own image.
The open mind must be hungry; it must also accept what is no matter the form taken by truth.
Truth wears many cloaks."
While these visitors may not share our Faith, our beliefs, our ideals, our values... they each have a unique perspective, and this can give us valuable insight into the situation which lies before us.
What we can take away from this is that each perspective acknowledges at least the following truths:
1. Faith: While the Cardians do not share our faith, let us look more closely at the words that they say. They do not worship our gods, but neither do they deny the existence of the Pantheon. The Undying Empire continues to adhere to what they call the Grace of the Thirteen. Cardia would abolish our Faith, which is clearly not acceptable. Jadairal adheres to a practice that clearly falls outside the ideals of the First Choice. However, no side - Cardia's, Jadairal's, or our own - denies the existence of the Gods. Therefore, this must be truth.
2. The Day of Betrayal: Each side acknowledges that something terrible happened in Cardia, long ago, which caused a great rift within the very fabric of our combined societies. But what is it, exactly? What happened? It is this: The majority of the Metallic Order perished. Each side has their own version of the tale to tell. The Cardian emissary insists that it was the result of incursions into their lands, and a failed peace treaty which resulted in their obliteration of those we here in Arvum revere as heroes. Jadairal blames Cardia, and insists that the Metallic Order was betrayed. The Undying Empire weeps for their loss, while the Cardians appear to look upon the whole thing with disdain. And we, here in Arvum, revere the Metallic Order as beacons of hope, and seek to live up to their example. Their memory is enshrined within the Hall of Heroes here in Arvum, for their many honored sacrifices.
A terrible thing happened that day: A loss so profound that the land itself in that place has turned to desolate wasteland. No living thing can grow there. This event is the source of the conflict between both Cardia and the Undying Empire, and yes, our story is tied in with this event as well, in a very important way. Another thing to consider is that things may not always be as they seem on the surface. There are many layers involved here, many truths wrapped within vague and carefully-couched words, if you know where to look. And while each version of the story is different, all sides acknowledge that it happened. Therefore, this event must be truth.
3. Arvum: The Undying Empire and Cardia both have come to our shores, claiming they wish to aid us. But think upon the reason why. Ask yourself, 'Why is Arvum so important?' Lord Sulla claims that it is not. That we are merely a provincial backwater that the Cardians wish to claim before the Undying Empire. But if you read between the lines, listen to the things that are not said, you can understand, I think, that Arvum is vitally important. Otherwise, why would they have any interest at all? Jadairal recognizes Arvum's importance, but they do not speak specifically of why. We are not merely neutral ground. Quite the opposite. We are the glue that holds it all together. And this is the vital, fundamental truth.
The Compact has made its decision, and these attempts to gain understanding from both of our foreign guests have not in any way been in an attempt to change that decision, nor challenge your Faith, but to simply understand their world view. We must come to terms with these truths so that we might learn and stand on our own, and our faith in the Gods must not waver.
I hope that this has been an enlightening experience for everyone. I know that not everyone will agree with my decision to allow these foreign visitors to speak at the Academy. But, I am at a point in my life where I am ready to step outside the shadow of disapproval, in order to bring you knowledge. What you do with it, and what context you take it in, is your decision and responsibility. But truth... it can be held up to many different lenses, and still shine through. A thing to consider. In the coming weeks, I will make effort to bring other speakers to the Academy, and may speak on some matters myself. In the meantime, never stop learning and growing.
In faith,
Archscholar Sina
Prince Alecestazi does have a point, in that truth often seems based on one's perspective. We see a prime example of this in the views of our foreign visitors. We Arvani see things from one perspective. The Undying Empire may see it from another. And Cardia sees the situation from their own point of view. But somewhere within these three viewpoints, there is truth. We need not abandon our Faith to view it. Indeed, our Faith requires that we seek knowledge, even unto considering viewpoints that are different from our own. Vellichor's Psalms state clearly,
"A hungry mind is an open mind.
When the mind is closed and says 'This cannot be', it will never learn.
Yet when truth is held before the closed mind, it cannot allow truth to stand.
The closed mind will act against the truth to erase it from the world.
The closed mind will seek to make the world in its own image.
The open mind must be hungry; it must also accept what is no matter the form taken by truth.
Truth wears many cloaks."
While these visitors may not share our Faith, our beliefs, our ideals, our values... they each have a unique perspective, and this can give us valuable insight into the situation which lies before us.
What we can take away from this is that each perspective acknowledges at least the following truths:
1. Faith: While the Cardians do not share our faith, let us look more closely at the words that they say. They do not worship our gods, but neither do they deny the existence of the Pantheon. The Undying Empire continues to adhere to what they call the Grace of the Thirteen. Cardia would abolish our Faith, which is clearly not acceptable. Jadairal adheres to a practice that clearly falls outside the ideals of the First Choice. However, no side - Cardia's, Jadairal's, or our own - denies the existence of the Gods. Therefore, this must be truth.
2. The Day of Betrayal: Each side acknowledges that something terrible happened in Cardia, long ago, which caused a great rift within the very fabric of our combined societies. But what is it, exactly? What happened? It is this: The majority of the Metallic Order perished. Each side has their own version of the tale to tell. The Cardian emissary insists that it was the result of incursions into their lands, and a failed peace treaty which resulted in their obliteration of those we here in Arvum revere as heroes. Jadairal blames Cardia, and insists that the Metallic Order was betrayed. The Undying Empire weeps for their loss, while the Cardians appear to look upon the whole thing with disdain. And we, here in Arvum, revere the Metallic Order as beacons of hope, and seek to live up to their example. Their memory is enshrined within the Hall of Heroes here in Arvum, for their many honored sacrifices.
A terrible thing happened that day: A loss so profound that the land itself in that place has turned to desolate wasteland. No living thing can grow there. This event is the source of the conflict between both Cardia and the Undying Empire, and yes, our story is tied in with this event as well, in a very important way. Another thing to consider is that things may not always be as they seem on the surface. There are many layers involved here, many truths wrapped within vague and carefully-couched words, if you know where to look. And while each version of the story is different, all sides acknowledge that it happened. Therefore, this event must be truth.
3. Arvum: The Undying Empire and Cardia both have come to our shores, claiming they wish to aid us. But think upon the reason why. Ask yourself, 'Why is Arvum so important?' Lord Sulla claims that it is not. That we are merely a provincial backwater that the Cardians wish to claim before the Undying Empire. But if you read between the lines, listen to the things that are not said, you can understand, I think, that Arvum is vitally important. Otherwise, why would they have any interest at all? Jadairal recognizes Arvum's importance, but they do not speak specifically of why. We are not merely neutral ground. Quite the opposite. We are the glue that holds it all together. And this is the vital, fundamental truth.
The Compact has made its decision, and these attempts to gain understanding from both of our foreign guests have not in any way been in an attempt to change that decision, nor challenge your Faith, but to simply understand their world view. We must come to terms with these truths so that we might learn and stand on our own, and our faith in the Gods must not waver.
I hope that this has been an enlightening experience for everyone. I know that not everyone will agree with my decision to allow these foreign visitors to speak at the Academy. But, I am at a point in my life where I am ready to step outside the shadow of disapproval, in order to bring you knowledge. What you do with it, and what context you take it in, is your decision and responsibility. But truth... it can be held up to many different lenses, and still shine through. A thing to consider. In the coming weeks, I will make effort to bring other speakers to the Academy, and may speak on some matters myself. In the meantime, never stop learning and growing.
In faith,
Archscholar Sina
Written By Vincenzo
July 1, 2019, 2:17 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Apprenticeships work as the institution creates a foundation on which basics, intermediate and possibly advanced knowledge of the craft are learned at appropriate time in an artist's journey. Why would you want to chase after intermediate or advanced things on an unrelated skill when you haven't yet mastered your initial craft? Maybe they're chasing after rainbows, or see the grass is greener on the other side. I'd smack my apprentice if they tried to use some new carpentry idea on a gown, bill them for the wasted material and boot them soundly out the door. I'd knock them on the head if they were talking about masonry tactics while I'm designing an outfit and say very loudly "Focus on the art first and then you can learn about other things after you master it!".
I wonder about all these foreigners coming in and giving some type of life lesson propaganda, and worry why such people are allowed a place to distribute their foreign thoughts and ways; I haven't heard yet of someone from the Compact going to their capital cities and given the same leniency and opportunity.
If so, I'd like to see Grandmaster Preston go. I'll admit to wanting to tag along, honestly only to acquire materials. And while I'm being honest, I'll bring the beauty of Arvum to those dark foreign and strange places to illuminate their minds with the inspiration from Jayus.
I wonder about all these foreigners coming in and giving some type of life lesson propaganda, and worry why such people are allowed a place to distribute their foreign thoughts and ways; I haven't heard yet of someone from the Compact going to their capital cities and given the same leniency and opportunity.
If so, I'd like to see Grandmaster Preston go. I'll admit to wanting to tag along, honestly only to acquire materials. And while I'm being honest, I'll bring the beauty of Arvum to those dark foreign and strange places to illuminate their minds with the inspiration from Jayus.
Written By Thena
July 1, 2019, 1:33 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Reading the notes from last night's meeting with the Cardian ambassadors, I'm a bit surprised that we woke up this morning.
Written By Lucita
July 1, 2019, 10:34 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
Interesting that answers only provoke more questions.
Written By Gwenna
July 1, 2019, 9:55 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Elgana
What can possibly be said about my cousin, Princess Elgana, that will do her any credible justice? She is one of the cleverest people I know and makes hosting and social gatherings look like child's play. A formidable mind, too, she is someone that I think I might always be able to go to when I've grander questions or just need an objective mind to help me with something. Beyond being family, her contributions to House Redrain are ones I am so very, very grateful for; truly, I am blessed to have her as both family and a fellow leader in our House. What I am most fortunate for, though, is that I get to call her one of my dearest friends atop all of that.
Written By Ida
July 1, 2019, 9:47 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
It was a rather productive week with a couple of projects that were both fun to work on as well as for a good cause in one of the cases. The ladybug hairpins for Princess Tikva, even though done on a whim for my patron, were pretty cute and I'm glad her words brought such quick inspiration.
I hope to restock the shop with more of the hairpins and once again donate a third of the gross profits to the Harlequins, but I also have commissions I need to really buckle down and get done. I don't like turning down commissions, but I can't in good conscious take new ones when I've so many waiting completion.
I hope Joscelin's travels are exciting and going smoothly. She promised to write when she arrives and I greatly look forward to knowing when she is safe and settled where ever it is that called her.
Dame Morrighan gifted me with an absolutely gorgeous tapestry depicting our beloved former Guildmaster and it truly looks like it belonged in my library all along.
I hope to restock the shop with more of the hairpins and once again donate a third of the gross profits to the Harlequins, but I also have commissions I need to really buckle down and get done. I don't like turning down commissions, but I can't in good conscious take new ones when I've so many waiting completion.
I hope Joscelin's travels are exciting and going smoothly. She promised to write when she arrives and I greatly look forward to knowing when she is safe and settled where ever it is that called her.
Dame Morrighan gifted me with an absolutely gorgeous tapestry depicting our beloved former Guildmaster and it truly looks like it belonged in my library all along.
Written By Mabelle
July 1, 2019, 6:51 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Vega
My heartfelt congratulations to Princess Vega and Prince Raimon on the birth of their long awaited first child.
I shall pray to child will grow up in the image of his father and be as lovely as his mother.
I lament I was not there to see the miracle. I'm glad you never left the city!
I shall pray to child will grow up in the image of his father and be as lovely as his mother.
I lament I was not there to see the miracle. I'm glad you never left the city!
Written By Preston
July 1, 2019, 6:02 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
The words of Father Aureth are important and bear repeating - whatever these foreign emissaries say, understand the context and the viewpoint through which all truth is filtered for them. And where they might mislead, the only pure truth is the Gods, after all.
Also understand despite what they say, or pretend as though they are offering us help, their focus is themselves and we are tools for that. I have made no secret in the past that I trust no-one who does not worship our Gods, no-one would expect anything different of me, but even in a lie there is information about a person and their intent. Something to learn.
Also understand despite what they say, or pretend as though they are offering us help, their focus is themselves and we are tools for that. I have made no secret in the past that I trust no-one who does not worship our Gods, no-one would expect anything different of me, but even in a lie there is information about a person and their intent. Something to learn.
Written By Samithel
July 1, 2019, 1:11 a.m.(5/19/1011 AR)
It was a warm spring day; surprisingly warm, especially with so many in the lecture hall at the academy. And of course, strangely turbulent skies. There were some emissaries from Cardia in the Vellichorian Academy--a praetor named Marcus of house Sulla and his…complement, Petraea of house Livy. She may have called herself a tribune? There were many strange names which I could not put to paper for lack of understanding of the language. It is enough to raise an epoch of questions. More practically, why did Marcus allow Petraea to accompany him?
There was some conversation of a small argument regarding her attendance, but it is clear they do not see eye to eye in many issues, and yet there she stood, answering questions along side him. Petraea is either poor with her masks or far better at this noble dance than he. It is almost as if she is the true diplomat, and he some kind of warlord.
Certainly his misuse of the word rabble did not win any favors with the nobles. Could he not tell how little they cared about his wish to keep Jad-airal off Arvum? Surely he could tell some questions were specifically searching for weaknesses, otherwise he would not have been so vague. Why is Arvum neutral ground, and why would they break it to destroy a house Darkwater?
Still, it was nice to witness moments of humanity--they do not care for their losses, and Marcus finds sentimental value in his Sundyr sword. There seems to be a title associated with it. Would it make him Marcus of house Sulla, Sword of the Black Spire? He is almost surely not the lord in the skylord relationship. They like adding the word sky to nearly anything. Maybe there is a story there, too, particularly considering those things which they do not feel beholden to.
There was some conversation of a small argument regarding her attendance, but it is clear they do not see eye to eye in many issues, and yet there she stood, answering questions along side him. Petraea is either poor with her masks or far better at this noble dance than he. It is almost as if she is the true diplomat, and he some kind of warlord.
Certainly his misuse of the word rabble did not win any favors with the nobles. Could he not tell how little they cared about his wish to keep Jad-airal off Arvum? Surely he could tell some questions were specifically searching for weaknesses, otherwise he would not have been so vague. Why is Arvum neutral ground, and why would they break it to destroy a house Darkwater?
Still, it was nice to witness moments of humanity--they do not care for their losses, and Marcus finds sentimental value in his Sundyr sword. There seems to be a title associated with it. Would it make him Marcus of house Sulla, Sword of the Black Spire? He is almost surely not the lord in the skylord relationship. They like adding the word sky to nearly anything. Maybe there is a story there, too, particularly considering those things which they do not feel beholden to.
Written By Rowenova
July 1, 2019, 12:21 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
To the Guildmaster Emeritus Joscelin Arterius,
Although we only met a few times, I will never forget that one day last week during which you brightened up my whole day after darker hours before then.
Thank you so much.
Although we only met a few times, I will never forget that one day last week during which you brightened up my whole day after darker hours before then.
Thank you so much.
Written By Shiara
July 1, 2019, 12:13 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
I see so many people with pets in the city, it makes me wonder. Where do they get them? I've neither the skill nor the patience, I think, to tame an animal. Although now that I say that I sincerely need to know....raccoons can't be that hard to get along with and train? They love treats!
Scamp, go bring me home a friend now.
Scamp, go bring me home a friend now.
Written By Shiara
July 1, 2019, 12:12 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Tallius
I will get you back for this I promise!!!
Written By Bliss
July 1, 2019, 12:09 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
On another, quick note - I think there is very little that makes me sigh heavier than elitism over what other people write in their White Journals. We all keep our records as best we can, and the things that seems the silliest and least sensible can have the most meaning for us, or those who are trying to find out who we were. Even our history should be told a certain way in order to have flavor, and a lack of spice will utterly ruin many meals. Of course, if you wish to simply be as flavorful as a bowl of wheat shreddings, it is not my prerogative to tell you to do otherwise.
Written By Bliss
July 1, 2019, 12:07 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Slow steps forward. A few personal projects that are underway, which I am curious to see how they will turn out, while I seek other things. Conversations and meetings and so many things, and beneath it all, I have to say -
I just really want to go out and have a drink. I should do that soon, within the next week.
I just really want to go out and have a drink. I should do that soon, within the next week.
Written By Rowenova
July 1, 2019, 12:02 a.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
In the alchemy laboratory, I whipped up New Shampoo with cedar scents from the woodsy areas around Cascade Springs for Sir Floppington: he is so sleek!
Thank you to my Lovely Patron for kindly introducing me to His Majesty. Meanwhile, I carefully consider potential proteges of my own these days.
Thank you to Mistress Petal for graciously hosting the Lilies and Prayers at the Lodge of Petrichor. On Honor Walk, Nextdoor Neighbors and I have been carefully transplanting the lily plants which were given away into our respective gardens. They are so lovely!
Meanwhile, Mistress Lottie has been baking up Northern-style treats which are absolutely amazing! Thank you so much! (She, too, has a lovely garden.)
Thank you to my Lovely Patron for kindly introducing me to His Majesty. Meanwhile, I carefully consider potential proteges of my own these days.
Thank you to Mistress Petal for graciously hosting the Lilies and Prayers at the Lodge of Petrichor. On Honor Walk, Nextdoor Neighbors and I have been carefully transplanting the lily plants which were given away into our respective gardens. They are so lovely!
Meanwhile, Mistress Lottie has been baking up Northern-style treats which are absolutely amazing! Thank you so much! (She, too, has a lovely garden.)
Written By Tyche
June 30, 2019, 11:53 p.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Floofkins, the adorable little kitten gifted to me by Princess Caith, is a beacon for attention. If ever I feel invisible, I simply need to scoop him up and I've made ten new friends.
Written By Tyche
June 30, 2019, 11:52 p.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Gaspar
The latest of Velenosan princes to come to Arx, but perhaps the most enjoyable when it comes to company. He's charming, witty, always up for a drink... He reminds me of me.
Written By Bree
June 30, 2019, 11:46 p.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Brannen
Perhaps talking about your childhood memories of your brother getting sick on berries is not something to do in public.
Written By Bree
June 30, 2019, 11:44 p.m.(5/18/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Jeffeth
What a fantastic welcome back to the city. Whenever I'm out on the road, I imagine what stories I'll have for Jeffeth when I get back. He certainly beat me on stories this time, though. The purpled bruise looks pretty awesome. I'll have to try harder on my next mission so I can wow him with a tale.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.