Written By Shard
May 23, 2019, 1:52 a.m.(2/25/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
There's nothing wrong with recognizing that someone else can help you in whatever you're trying to do. There's nothing wrong with assembling a team of people who can all contribute in important ways to the goal. The problem is when you start thinking of other people as resources instead of people. I think I got really angry at someone in front of you once, over this sort of thing. The expectation that a person or persons who /can/ help you therefore /will/ and /must/ help you, with no thought toward their own needs, or even their own existence /as/ a person or persons, is widespread and extraordinarily obnoxious, at best. At the. Very. Best.
Written By Ishmael
May 23, 2019, 1:33 a.m.(2/25/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Ysabel
She drives me mad. It would be so much easier if she did not spread her scandal about so freely.
Written By Rysen
May 22, 2019, 12:56 p.m.(2/24/1011 AR)
Princess Alarissa and I hosted a banquet in the Black Hall in honor of the Sentinel. It is easy to see why the Princess Consort of Maelstrom is so beloved and respected, as she is a woman with far reaching vision, great skill in statecraft, and a sincere love of her people.
Many subjects were discussed, and I am very grateful for all those who were present. In reflecting on all that was said, I believe the revelations of Count Orrin, taken with the words of Commander Sparte Grayfellow, revealed a path to justice for Asger, and for many who are suffering even now in the Isles, the Crownlands and the Northlands.
I must offer my sincere apologies for disturbing the repose of Countess Carita and Lord Evander in order to arm wrestle with Lady Brianna after the serious business had concluded. I hope, in the end, such Northland celebratory traditions and contests were more amusing than offensive. I must also congratulate the Countess of Cedar Vale, who has proven herself one of Arvum's strongest, and earned the title Empress of Arm Wrestling.
The banquet was my first time speaking with Duke Valdemar Grimhall, and though perhaps some of our values differ, he is without a doubt a man of integrity and courage, and his decisions will do much to shape the future of his people and the Compact. At the risk of writing in a fashion that is too familiar, I must say that I stood in awe of Count Orrin and Lady Peri. I have long known and respected the intellect and leadership of Lady Peri, and to see her in the presence of her father - the way they think and act, the alacrity with which they offer aid in time of need, and the insight they provide into matters of greatest consequence - I can see all too clearly the cause of the prosperity of Pearlspire, and the glorious reputation of House Seliki.
Many subjects were discussed, and I am very grateful for all those who were present. In reflecting on all that was said, I believe the revelations of Count Orrin, taken with the words of Commander Sparte Grayfellow, revealed a path to justice for Asger, and for many who are suffering even now in the Isles, the Crownlands and the Northlands.
I must offer my sincere apologies for disturbing the repose of Countess Carita and Lord Evander in order to arm wrestle with Lady Brianna after the serious business had concluded. I hope, in the end, such Northland celebratory traditions and contests were more amusing than offensive. I must also congratulate the Countess of Cedar Vale, who has proven herself one of Arvum's strongest, and earned the title Empress of Arm Wrestling.
The banquet was my first time speaking with Duke Valdemar Grimhall, and though perhaps some of our values differ, he is without a doubt a man of integrity and courage, and his decisions will do much to shape the future of his people and the Compact. At the risk of writing in a fashion that is too familiar, I must say that I stood in awe of Count Orrin and Lady Peri. I have long known and respected the intellect and leadership of Lady Peri, and to see her in the presence of her father - the way they think and act, the alacrity with which they offer aid in time of need, and the insight they provide into matters of greatest consequence - I can see all too clearly the cause of the prosperity of Pearlspire, and the glorious reputation of House Seliki.
Written By Sorrel
May 22, 2019, 12:22 p.m.(2/24/1011 AR)
It hurts me a little that I am so caught up with my duties to the Mourning Isles as the wife of Prince Galen Thrax, Warlord of Maelstrom and the Mourning Isles, that I am unlikely to have time to aid my Wyrmguard cousins with the Tragedy at High Hill. They were Wyrmguard vassals, and they are all dead now: man, woman, and child. I had friends among them, and I worked with them to improve High Hill. My heart breaks a little.
May Marquessa Dominique Wyrmguard, her sister Lady Desiree Wyrmguard, and my other cousins find ways to right this wrong. May their liege, Duke Telmar, aid them in seeking the Sentinel's Justice for them.
And may Death embrace the residents of High Hill and bless their souls, I pray.
May Marquessa Dominique Wyrmguard, her sister Lady Desiree Wyrmguard, and my other cousins find ways to right this wrong. May their liege, Duke Telmar, aid them in seeking the Sentinel's Justice for them.
And may Death embrace the residents of High Hill and bless their souls, I pray.
Written By Valenzo
May 22, 2019, 9:55 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
Someone's gone and kicked a giant anthill after infuriating it with a stick.
Healthy to keep in mind that no matter what the broken earth reveals or what the flung clods hit, neither of those are the boot that did the kicking, savvy?
Healthy to keep in mind that no matter what the broken earth reveals or what the flung clods hit, neither of those are the boot that did the kicking, savvy?
Written By Sparte
May 22, 2019, 9:46 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
At times when we think of who to collaborate with on projects the question we're tempted to ask ourselves is what they will do to help the project. What do they bring to the table.
I recently had someone do that in my presence, essentially asking how another person could be 'used' to further a goal. It is a common temptation, to look to our personal success first and foremost.
Yet to hear it put such a way sat ill with me. I know that instead asking who will be helped by involvement will, at times, mean bringing in those who do not contribute to the success of a project. It may even be a detriment to your goals to involve them, at least on the face of things.
So I sit, I clear my mind, I ask myself why I have the projects and goals that I do. Are they purely for my own benefit? I don't think they are. I believe very few people actively think only of themselves when they lay out their ambitions and their dreams. They may include themselves in the beneficiaries, but to be the sole one to benefit is something else entirely.
So why then, when we work towards our goals, do we find it so easy to disassociate mutual benefit from individual tasks?
'I' want to help the people of my fealty. The personal desire to do something for more than oneself.
'I' want 'my' project to succeed at all cost. The shedding of concern for others in realizing a goal meant to help others.
I don't know where in the faith questions like this would fall. Even if we exploit others in the short term the full of the effort will, potentially, benefit others. Yet it feels like a tainted victory to think in such terms. To justify selfishness is to legitimize it, and no matter how many ways I look at this that leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
I recently had someone do that in my presence, essentially asking how another person could be 'used' to further a goal. It is a common temptation, to look to our personal success first and foremost.
Yet to hear it put such a way sat ill with me. I know that instead asking who will be helped by involvement will, at times, mean bringing in those who do not contribute to the success of a project. It may even be a detriment to your goals to involve them, at least on the face of things.
So I sit, I clear my mind, I ask myself why I have the projects and goals that I do. Are they purely for my own benefit? I don't think they are. I believe very few people actively think only of themselves when they lay out their ambitions and their dreams. They may include themselves in the beneficiaries, but to be the sole one to benefit is something else entirely.
So why then, when we work towards our goals, do we find it so easy to disassociate mutual benefit from individual tasks?
'I' want to help the people of my fealty. The personal desire to do something for more than oneself.
'I' want 'my' project to succeed at all cost. The shedding of concern for others in realizing a goal meant to help others.
I don't know where in the faith questions like this would fall. Even if we exploit others in the short term the full of the effort will, potentially, benefit others. Yet it feels like a tainted victory to think in such terms. To justify selfishness is to legitimize it, and no matter how many ways I look at this that leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
Written By Mayir
May 22, 2019, 9:19 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
I had. The BEST. Birthday. Ever!
Nurie designed me a new cloak pin that goes PERFECT on my bespoke cloak from Master Aaron. It is crows! Like the Gray Crow! My ship!
Lottie made me a SUPER SPECIAL chocolate lava cake on almost NO notice and it was ooey and goey and delicious and perfect!
And so many of my friends and family came. Aureth! Harper! Nisaa! Isabetta! Fortunato! (I can call him that now again!)
Twenty-one is going to be my best year ever. And it is because I have friends and family to call my own.
Being a Grayhope is the best gift a Lowers rate like me could ask for.
Nurie designed me a new cloak pin that goes PERFECT on my bespoke cloak from Master Aaron. It is crows! Like the Gray Crow! My ship!
Lottie made me a SUPER SPECIAL chocolate lava cake on almost NO notice and it was ooey and goey and delicious and perfect!
And so many of my friends and family came. Aureth! Harper! Nisaa! Isabetta! Fortunato! (I can call him that now again!)
Twenty-one is going to be my best year ever. And it is because I have friends and family to call my own.
Being a Grayhope is the best gift a Lowers rate like me could ask for.
Written By Raimon
May 22, 2019, 6:53 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowenova
Well done on your victory. Do not expect things to get easier
Written By Preston
May 22, 2019, 5:24 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
With all that has gone on with the Great Road and its problems, it has been busy. Beyond Mother Ailith and my brothers and sisters of the Templars, I have had limited opportunity to work with the other members of the Faith - we have been sent to all ends of Arvum on our missions to help.
It has been a delight then to have had a chance in the past few days to have messengers both from Father Aureth, who has long been a source of advice, and from my dearest sister of the Faith, Dame Thena. What we have to discuss may be troubling or difficult, but together I am confident that the Faith will find the path to preserve our people and our ways and, with others, will follow that path to its conclusion.
It has been a delight then to have had a chance in the past few days to have messengers both from Father Aureth, who has long been a source of advice, and from my dearest sister of the Faith, Dame Thena. What we have to discuss may be troubling or difficult, but together I am confident that the Faith will find the path to preserve our people and our ways and, with others, will follow that path to its conclusion.
Written By Maja
May 22, 2019, 3:01 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Braith
I don't need to be beloved by all -- I only care about one.
I'm sure whatever you write will be amazing. I cannot wait to hear it.
I'm sure whatever you write will be amazing. I cannot wait to hear it.
Written By Shard
May 22, 2019, 2:47 a.m.(2/23/1011 AR)
I understand the grieving. I sympathize with the grieving. I definitely understand, intimately, the desire for revenge.
But it's hard not to notice what is and isn't considered tragic and horrible when they keep following on each others' heels this way.
But it's hard not to notice what is and isn't considered tragic and horrible when they keep following on each others' heels this way.
Written By Aureth
May 21, 2019, 7:19 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
I consider the gentleness of my silvering to its present state to be a fine gift from Lagoma, following the changes of my seasons.
Written By Lisebet
May 21, 2019, 7:19 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
I ran into Ryhalt, Clover, and Ronja the other day at Bold Espressions. It was lovely to meet Lady Umbroise, and visit with family. Mistress Petal was also there, and I was very pleased to be wearing a dress created by her.
I can report that so far, ginger cake is the one thing that does not upset my stomach. Coffee, on the other hand, not so much.
I can report that so far, ginger cake is the one thing that does not upset my stomach. Coffee, on the other hand, not so much.
Written By Miranda
May 21, 2019, 7:11 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
I have a new cat.
It's my first cat.
I think, actually, she has me. I'm her first person.
Her name is Jewel. It's fitting. She is the jewel in my life.
Wouldn't trade her for anything!
It's my first cat.
I think, actually, she has me. I'm her first person.
Her name is Jewel. It's fitting. She is the jewel in my life.
Wouldn't trade her for anything!
Written By Corban
May 21, 2019, 4:03 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
Every man. Woman. And child in Highhill.
Dead.
As Duke Arn says, these were Wyrmguard vassals, which brought them under the umbrella of the Telmarch, my ancestral home.
I weep for them. I pray to the Queen for them. Not just the nobles: Their mission is to rule and to sacrifice for their people, though any lost life is a tragedy. But for the common woman and man, who seek to do their duty and keep their families. They have no responsibility for these struggles. And yet they are casualties.
Beloved Queen of Beginning and Endings, see to these souls, shepherd them as is Your will, and with dear Lagoma, help us heal the rend in our hearts created by their passing.
Dead.
As Duke Arn says, these were Wyrmguard vassals, which brought them under the umbrella of the Telmarch, my ancestral home.
I weep for them. I pray to the Queen for them. Not just the nobles: Their mission is to rule and to sacrifice for their people, though any lost life is a tragedy. But for the common woman and man, who seek to do their duty and keep their families. They have no responsibility for these struggles. And yet they are casualties.
Beloved Queen of Beginning and Endings, see to these souls, shepherd them as is Your will, and with dear Lagoma, help us heal the rend in our hearts created by their passing.
Written By Monique
May 21, 2019, 3:31 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
I'm not sure I'll ever be able to use my arms again. They feel like rubber. Damn that Snowy Seas tournament! What clever torture! Thoroughly enjoyed myself, but am paying for it now. For those of you who threw snowballs at me, don't think revenge won't be swift when I regain the use of my arms!
Written By Ajax
May 21, 2019, 3:06 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowenova
Well won, Scout. I will strive to defeat you next year.
Written By Braden
May 21, 2019, 1:52 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Fianna
Got invited to this thing at the Black Hall of Axes by Duchess Fianna. Should be a fantastic evening.
Written By Gunther
May 21, 2019, 1:22 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
Sally girl,
When I was just a pup I was beaten and made fun of onna account of bein' such a runt and not havin' a mug worth lookin' at. And it turned me sour all the times I was made to kiss the earth by some bigger bucko's fists and shove. My beak done kissed so many toes and shoes while my head was swimmin' and foggy I knew who was kick'n me by the feel of things.
Ain't nothin' left to wonder why I grew up so salty. I got in my cups and I took them beatings and turned them into a ball of anger and not so good feels about who and what I was. I balled up mah firsts and I started givin' them lumps back. It felt good at first. Givin' those that beat me their pain right back to them. But what was good soon turned to nothin' and it was just a void I could never fill. Ain't no small number of faces or wigs I punched out could make me feel better about myself. So I kept drankin' and I turned to bein' so sour I was not but hate and liquor inside. The liquor was the fuel for my fire and their faces was the kindlin' that kept me burnin'. And I was 'bout burned out when you found me in that gutter all swollen and bloated with death on the horizon.
When I woke up it was your mitt, worn... them textured fingers wiping down mah face. Then finally when my eyes opened and the swelling didn't keep them shut none I saw you for the first time. Must looked awful sorry coughin' up that blood and gurgling like I was. You shushed me and cleaned me up. Put mah head in your lap and you sung them songs until I went to sleep.
I ain't never lived none before I met you. Sure I was alive an' all but I wasn't, not really -- I was just existing from hurt to hurt. Either my hurt or someone else's hurt saw me through mah days. My first breath, the first day I lived was the moment I felt the kindness of your touch. Soon I was to know your love and I started breathin' just for you.
Them was the happiest days a fella could know. I went from breath to breath so full of love and wonder. I didn't feel like I was so worthless. Like I was just some runt reject that could take a punch and that was my only value. I felt like I was worthy of love. Ain't nothin' like goin' from that sorta black to the sort of light your love gave me. I was saved by you Sally and every breath while you was alive was yours.
But now, without you -- I'm breathin' and it's my own breath. And cuz of your light all I want to do is spread that light and love you gave me. Ain't never gonna care for someone and nurse them and nurtures them likes you done to me. That ain't me. But I got value too. I can care and give all my coins. I can train them that's doin' good to be better so they can do more good. And soon I'll be a knight on them Roads and I'll be makin' them safe that is on their paths and ain't got no Sally to draw them from them dark places.
I'm living and breathin' my own breaths now. But I'll always be takin' them thankful of you and your love. And I hope to breathe life into others like you done for me.
I know I ain't no worthless cur.
I'm Gunther, loved by Sally... and I'm a good man for it.
I love you baby girl.
Ain't never gonna stop.
Gunther
When I was just a pup I was beaten and made fun of onna account of bein' such a runt and not havin' a mug worth lookin' at. And it turned me sour all the times I was made to kiss the earth by some bigger bucko's fists and shove. My beak done kissed so many toes and shoes while my head was swimmin' and foggy I knew who was kick'n me by the feel of things.
Ain't nothin' left to wonder why I grew up so salty. I got in my cups and I took them beatings and turned them into a ball of anger and not so good feels about who and what I was. I balled up mah firsts and I started givin' them lumps back. It felt good at first. Givin' those that beat me their pain right back to them. But what was good soon turned to nothin' and it was just a void I could never fill. Ain't no small number of faces or wigs I punched out could make me feel better about myself. So I kept drankin' and I turned to bein' so sour I was not but hate and liquor inside. The liquor was the fuel for my fire and their faces was the kindlin' that kept me burnin'. And I was 'bout burned out when you found me in that gutter all swollen and bloated with death on the horizon.
When I woke up it was your mitt, worn... them textured fingers wiping down mah face. Then finally when my eyes opened and the swelling didn't keep them shut none I saw you for the first time. Must looked awful sorry coughin' up that blood and gurgling like I was. You shushed me and cleaned me up. Put mah head in your lap and you sung them songs until I went to sleep.
I ain't never lived none before I met you. Sure I was alive an' all but I wasn't, not really -- I was just existing from hurt to hurt. Either my hurt or someone else's hurt saw me through mah days. My first breath, the first day I lived was the moment I felt the kindness of your touch. Soon I was to know your love and I started breathin' just for you.
Them was the happiest days a fella could know. I went from breath to breath so full of love and wonder. I didn't feel like I was so worthless. Like I was just some runt reject that could take a punch and that was my only value. I felt like I was worthy of love. Ain't nothin' like goin' from that sorta black to the sort of light your love gave me. I was saved by you Sally and every breath while you was alive was yours.
But now, without you -- I'm breathin' and it's my own breath. And cuz of your light all I want to do is spread that light and love you gave me. Ain't never gonna care for someone and nurse them and nurtures them likes you done to me. That ain't me. But I got value too. I can care and give all my coins. I can train them that's doin' good to be better so they can do more good. And soon I'll be a knight on them Roads and I'll be makin' them safe that is on their paths and ain't got no Sally to draw them from them dark places.
I'm living and breathin' my own breaths now. But I'll always be takin' them thankful of you and your love. And I hope to breathe life into others like you done for me.
I know I ain't no worthless cur.
I'm Gunther, loved by Sally... and I'm a good man for it.
I love you baby girl.
Ain't never gonna stop.
Gunther
Written By Gunther
May 21, 2019, 12:48 p.m.(2/22/1011 AR)
My Sally,
Ain't it funny been now so long since you been gone. Ain't sure how long exactly onna account I don't do calendars and keep track of them dates so well.
But I could still tell you all them details about every one of them wrinkles that spread out from your sweet lovin' eyes. They was six on the left and the middle one was always my favorite. It started out straight and got all wavy on the end 'cept when you smiled and then it was straight as an arrow. I always knew where you was in your day and mood when I saw that line.
If it was wavy I'd do whatever I could. Make you some vittles. Get flowers. Or just hold your hand and take you out to the see the sunset. The best part of my day was taking that wavy line and by the time we was knackered out and sleepy layin' down 'side you and seein' it straight again.
I still love you with every bump of my ol' ticker...
Gunther
Ain't it funny been now so long since you been gone. Ain't sure how long exactly onna account I don't do calendars and keep track of them dates so well.
But I could still tell you all them details about every one of them wrinkles that spread out from your sweet lovin' eyes. They was six on the left and the middle one was always my favorite. It started out straight and got all wavy on the end 'cept when you smiled and then it was straight as an arrow. I always knew where you was in your day and mood when I saw that line.
If it was wavy I'd do whatever I could. Make you some vittles. Get flowers. Or just hold your hand and take you out to the see the sunset. The best part of my day was taking that wavy line and by the time we was knackered out and sleepy layin' down 'side you and seein' it straight again.
I still love you with every bump of my ol' ticker...
Gunther
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