Written By Kenna
Jan. 12, 2019, 5:47 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
I cannot and will not accept the preposterous claims that it was Jyri and Elora's wedding which finally decided the treasonous actions against Deepwood from House Grayreeve.
I have no doubt that they were looking for reasons to rebel for years now and have decided upon it now with this thin claim that this wedding provoked it.
If Deepwood calls, I will march with them. I will not take such slights without action.
I have no doubt that they were looking for reasons to rebel for years now and have decided upon it now with this thin claim that this wedding provoked it.
If Deepwood calls, I will march with them. I will not take such slights without action.
Written By Jaenelle
Jan. 12, 2019, 5:44 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
Ettore Mydas Velenosa, do remember some of the vows I made to you on our wedding day.
In the Queen of Endings' grace, I vow each moment is spent as if it were our last together. That nothing is taken for granted and when our times come to return to the wheel that we will both have found that contentment that we sought in each other, and find that Death's embrace is found to hold no regrets. In Vellichor's grace, I vow to remember. Even should Death come for you first, you will be remembered long after, your story shared with our children and theirs after.
What will I tell him of you? How will I tell him everything he needs to know when he is old enough? Will I remember everything he deserves to know?
I hope when the time comes I can tell him that you were redeeming yourself, how you were changing for the better and it was because of him that you were able to see the light. I will tell him despite other's insistence, you smiled often and laughed with your entire being. I will tell him how wonderfully stubborn you were with everyone but his mother, and with her you were gentle and kind and loving, without question or stipulations. I will tell him there was a darkness inside of you, that you were far from perfect and you had your own terrors to fight but you had the desire and willpower to overcome those obstacles.
He loved you, Vittore, more than I could write here but I will do my best to make sure you know that love till the very last.
In the Queen of Endings' grace, I vow each moment is spent as if it were our last together. That nothing is taken for granted and when our times come to return to the wheel that we will both have found that contentment that we sought in each other, and find that Death's embrace is found to hold no regrets. In Vellichor's grace, I vow to remember. Even should Death come for you first, you will be remembered long after, your story shared with our children and theirs after.
What will I tell him of you? How will I tell him everything he needs to know when he is old enough? Will I remember everything he deserves to know?
I hope when the time comes I can tell him that you were redeeming yourself, how you were changing for the better and it was because of him that you were able to see the light. I will tell him despite other's insistence, you smiled often and laughed with your entire being. I will tell him how wonderfully stubborn you were with everyone but his mother, and with her you were gentle and kind and loving, without question or stipulations. I will tell him there was a darkness inside of you, that you were far from perfect and you had your own terrors to fight but you had the desire and willpower to overcome those obstacles.
He loved you, Vittore, more than I could write here but I will do my best to make sure you know that love till the very last.
Written By Alrec
Jan. 12, 2019, 4:55 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
My thoughts on the roads; easier to get to us, easier to get to them.
Written By Ouida
Jan. 12, 2019, 4:33 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
When I was a little girl, we had an old rope swing tied to one of the gnarled but tall trees in the gardens. I think perhaps that old tree had stood even before the building of Fair Harbour, though not being one terribly knowledgeable about trees, perhaps that was just a fable told by the gardeners to enchant a little girl and get her out of their hair.
All three of us played under that canopy of branches, though Odhran mainly just wanted to use the rope to scramble up to the branch, and then climb higher and higher to pelt Orvyn and I with the bitter and hard fruits it bore. Orvyn liked to bring a book or his papers to a snug little nook amongst the above-ground roots--they were worn so satin smooth by then it makes me smile at the wonder to think of how many of our ancestors nestled there and lost themselves in tales or daydreaming.
I liked to climb too--and to pelt my brothers with the fruits, though hitting Odhran even then was akin to taking one's life in their hands if he caught you later. But I most loved to fly on the rope. Orvyn could set me spinning higher and higher until it almost seemed as though I could let go and sail away into the clouds if I wanted to. (A broken arm set my expectations firmly into greater reality early on).
Until recently, I'd forgotten how wonderful it felt to soar, to feel the wind buoying you up, and trying to snatch you down all at the same time.
There is no tall tree in the keep here in Arx, at least not tall enough for that kind of swing. But on the sly I helped set up more of a bench swing hung in the pavilion, overlooking fountain and flowerbeds. This morning I saw Cook resting there and watching the first butterflies, her feet tucked so she could swing, and I quietly slipped away so I would not interrupt her.
Apparently I am not the only one who craves flying now and then.
All three of us played under that canopy of branches, though Odhran mainly just wanted to use the rope to scramble up to the branch, and then climb higher and higher to pelt Orvyn and I with the bitter and hard fruits it bore. Orvyn liked to bring a book or his papers to a snug little nook amongst the above-ground roots--they were worn so satin smooth by then it makes me smile at the wonder to think of how many of our ancestors nestled there and lost themselves in tales or daydreaming.
I liked to climb too--and to pelt my brothers with the fruits, though hitting Odhran even then was akin to taking one's life in their hands if he caught you later. But I most loved to fly on the rope. Orvyn could set me spinning higher and higher until it almost seemed as though I could let go and sail away into the clouds if I wanted to. (A broken arm set my expectations firmly into greater reality early on).
Until recently, I'd forgotten how wonderful it felt to soar, to feel the wind buoying you up, and trying to snatch you down all at the same time.
There is no tall tree in the keep here in Arx, at least not tall enough for that kind of swing. But on the sly I helped set up more of a bench swing hung in the pavilion, overlooking fountain and flowerbeds. This morning I saw Cook resting there and watching the first butterflies, her feet tucked so she could swing, and I quietly slipped away so I would not interrupt her.
Apparently I am not the only one who craves flying now and then.
Written By Harper
Jan. 12, 2019, 4:12 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jyri
Got to see one of my very best friends get married today. I'm real happy for Jyri and Elora. It was real nice and Raavas has a Mom to care for him. I think seeing his face made me happier than anything else. I love that boy.
It's a shame that folks got their knickers in a twist over it. Still, I think they'll make each other real happy and honor their vows. In the end, that's what matters, as far as I'm concerned.
Might be nice, though, if people would stop trying to find so many reasons to fight and bicker and hate, and find reasons to get along instead. I know a lot of folks say that's a pipe dream, but I'm gonna keep on hoping. Copper's message hasn't faded in my book.
So, here's to hoping for a real long and happy future for you two!
It's a shame that folks got their knickers in a twist over it. Still, I think they'll make each other real happy and honor their vows. In the end, that's what matters, as far as I'm concerned.
Might be nice, though, if people would stop trying to find so many reasons to fight and bicker and hate, and find reasons to get along instead. I know a lot of folks say that's a pipe dream, but I'm gonna keep on hoping. Copper's message hasn't faded in my book.
So, here's to hoping for a real long and happy future for you two!
Written By Sorrel
Jan. 12, 2019, 4:05 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Alexandre
My brother has been murdered in the name of 'justice.' His murderers should beware, for they will be brought to true justice under Sentinel for this grievous crime. I have no mercy for those who would do this to a true knight, a member of the Order of Eastern Light, and I will work with those who must now deal with this malicious crime.
His child should not have to grow up fatherless, and I will see to it that both his widow and his orphan are well taken care of.
His child should not have to grow up fatherless, and I will see to it that both his widow and his orphan are well taken care of.
Written By Evaristo
Jan. 12, 2019, 4 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Exciting week, to say the least, not only because of all the copper I see being worn, but because we went out on a trip and went somewhere and did stuff.
It was glorious and not nearly as profitable as I expected, but it's alright. We'll go back!
A note, dear readers: beware of dilrerocks. They're very lethal.
It was glorious and not nearly as profitable as I expected, but it's alright. We'll go back!
A note, dear readers: beware of dilrerocks. They're very lethal.
Written By Sorrel
Jan. 12, 2019, 3:57 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Ysbail
Congratulations are due to my friend Lady Ysbail for being made Voice of House Blackwood. I think that she will make an excellent and conscientious leader there.
Written By Alrec
Jan. 12, 2019, 3:25 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Not going to say scary smiling shadows, but that was difinitely smiling shadows.
Written By Domonico
Jan. 12, 2019, 3:22 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Will House Malvici be pulled into this growing conflict that is threatening all aspects of the Compact? People may call for Southport to call it's banners and go to war. If it does, I will do my duty.
Written By Bethany
Jan. 12, 2019, 2:03 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Not everyone in the Mercier family chose to join House Whitehawk. Some of us have been content to keep our place in society, "bickering" over grapes and grain. In times of peace and times of war, it always has been, and always will be, the Mercier family's pleasure and honor to make sure that the tables of the nobility never lack for bread, and that their wine glasses are always full.
We think that's something worth being proud of.
We have a summer claret releasing soon that we're pretty proud of, as well. It's perfect for sipping chilled, when the weather turns hot.
We think that's something worth being proud of.
We have a summer claret releasing soon that we're pretty proud of, as well. It's perfect for sipping chilled, when the weather turns hot.
Written By Corban
Jan. 12, 2019, 1:40 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Austen
The Silver Swords grow stronger with each knight that takes the Oaths to King, Compact, and Hundred.
Welcome, Sir Austen of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard. Long may you serve with honor and distinction.
Welcome, Sir Austen of the Sovereign's Own Royal Guard. Long may you serve with honor and distinction.
Written By Petal
Jan. 12, 2019, 1:19 p.m.(5/7/1010 AR)
I am very busy with spring planting at the moment. For me spring planting, is really the most important time, but harvest time is pretty important to.
I am working four major projects regarding operation grow lots and lots of plants.
The first one is planting the lodge, both the flowers there and the orchard too of course. That seems to be going well and I very much appreciate those who came to help with the planting, especially as news of the road was just reaching us. Some still came out to help even while mourning loses. The lodge planting is going well and the lodge will be more beautiful and filled with flowers than ever. That being said I am very thankful to all those who helped to protect the Lodge. It is because of them that we had a spring planting at all.
The next project is planting lots of copper poppies in honor of Copper. Princes Lorenzo asked me to make something in honor of her and help distribute such. There is nothing that comes from me that is as special as flowers and so I worked on finding, growing, planting and distributing these flowers in her honor. If anyone would like some, I would be happy to provide them with some copper poppies for free. Just send me a message.
The third project is working on the plants of Farwatch. I am working on building up their agriculture. I am very excited and hopeful of an abundant fall harvest in the future.
The next project is increasing plants in Compact in general. That is why I am offering free apple trees, blue berry bushes, strawberry plants, tulips and other flowers to those who are interested in increasing the plants on their grounds. Just send me a message if one is interested.
Because really the more plants the better.
Petal
I am working four major projects regarding operation grow lots and lots of plants.
The first one is planting the lodge, both the flowers there and the orchard too of course. That seems to be going well and I very much appreciate those who came to help with the planting, especially as news of the road was just reaching us. Some still came out to help even while mourning loses. The lodge planting is going well and the lodge will be more beautiful and filled with flowers than ever. That being said I am very thankful to all those who helped to protect the Lodge. It is because of them that we had a spring planting at all.
The next project is planting lots of copper poppies in honor of Copper. Princes Lorenzo asked me to make something in honor of her and help distribute such. There is nothing that comes from me that is as special as flowers and so I worked on finding, growing, planting and distributing these flowers in her honor. If anyone would like some, I would be happy to provide them with some copper poppies for free. Just send me a message.
The third project is working on the plants of Farwatch. I am working on building up their agriculture. I am very excited and hopeful of an abundant fall harvest in the future.
The next project is increasing plants in Compact in general. That is why I am offering free apple trees, blue berry bushes, strawberry plants, tulips and other flowers to those who are interested in increasing the plants on their grounds. Just send me a message if one is interested.
Because really the more plants the better.
Petal
Written By Reese
Jan. 12, 2019, 12:58 p.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
It is a blessing to hear of the birth of Princess Lilah. She has a lovely name. Congrats Princess Sorrel and Princess Galen
Reese
Reese
Written By Reese
Jan. 12, 2019, 12:56 p.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
Congrats to Lady Elora Whitehawk and Lord Jyri Whitehawk. It was a lovely ceremony and I wish them every happiness.
Reese
Reese
Written By Niklas
Jan. 12, 2019, 11:52 a.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
So many whites being written today about how terribly frangible our peace is.
It makes me wonder if they were paying attention yesterday.
It makes me wonder if they were paying attention yesterday.
Written By Reigna
Jan. 12, 2019, 11:38 a.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Shard
I do so enjoy reading your words.
You are correct, history is always told in many and often varying voices. It is the challenge of every historian to try to find the most plausible thread, the one with the most repeated patterns and theorize from that what the truth might have been.
Several things have been brought to my attention and need to be stated before I continue:
1. I showed judgement and bias when I used the word 'cowardice' to describe those who fell into the category of not choosing a side. That was not only unfair, it cast that judgement onto people who may not have seen another road. It is too easy to look at the past and say 'oh, the answer is obvious' without really grasping the many shades of gray that can make choices so very difficult. With my wording I rendered what was likely impossible-seeming choices into a literal black and white, yes or no situation that is incredibly inaccurate and not respectful. For that, I do apologize.
2. Historians often do operate on multiple levels when teaching or speaking on topics, the shallowest level is the broad strokes, boiling down complex issues to the major points. From there, specifics can be raised, individual points debated, and so on, the deeper and more specific the scholars wish to go, narrowing their focus and discussing the finer details.
3. Truth can be subjective. A difficult lesson, and one that goes counter to a logical mind, this is, nevertheless, the truth. There can certainly be an objective truth: Living humans do the following: We walk on the ground, we breathe air, we bleed. These are objectively true facts. But in any instance of conflict, the truth can be entirely, wholly subjective. If you ask two people in the midst of a quarrel what is going on, you are likely to get similar but different answers. Even when each are being entirely truthful, they will experience different things. This fact makes recording and researching subjects like history to be incredibly challenging.
So I do understand and acknowledge that the stories you grew up with are undoubtedly different than the ones I was taught. I do understand that I was over-simplifying and showing an innate bias when I regrettably used the word 'cowardice'. So, let me put this forth:
The past is the past. There is no changing what has been. But we can choose to shape our future. I very much liked your analogy about the broken pot, the pieces scattered into different elements. You are correct, there is no way to make them fit together they way they were. In order to bring them together, it will have to be new. It heartens me to hear you acknowledge that something can be built from those broken pieces. And that is what I am trying to advocate for. What happened has happened. There is no changing what has been. Not anymore. And in truth, I do not think it should. The past shapes us, teaches us, strengthens us. If we let it, it can educate us in how not to make the same mistakes. As a prodigal yourself, are you not better for being part of the Compact? Is the way of life here, not better than the alternative?
You speak of your tribe, about their nomadic ways. Their concern that their way of life might vanish. The common folk of the Compact are never bound to one place. They are free to travel as they wish to. It might be that they would have to broker agreements with lords over the lands they travel through, but think of how much less stressful that would be if there was not the fear of being at odds with those soldiers? Of being able to discuss issues with the lord? They could supplement their hunts with supplies traded with villagers or merchants. They could sell excess furs or meat for items that might make their lives easier. They could avoid starvation in the lean times.
I am positive there are things wrong with my vision. That, being someone born, raised and of the Peerage I do not see. But I do see the benefits. I see the lack of fear, I see support offered. I see all the reasons to come home. For I truly think your people would be happier in the long run by coming home.
You are correct, history is always told in many and often varying voices. It is the challenge of every historian to try to find the most plausible thread, the one with the most repeated patterns and theorize from that what the truth might have been.
Several things have been brought to my attention and need to be stated before I continue:
1. I showed judgement and bias when I used the word 'cowardice' to describe those who fell into the category of not choosing a side. That was not only unfair, it cast that judgement onto people who may not have seen another road. It is too easy to look at the past and say 'oh, the answer is obvious' without really grasping the many shades of gray that can make choices so very difficult. With my wording I rendered what was likely impossible-seeming choices into a literal black and white, yes or no situation that is incredibly inaccurate and not respectful. For that, I do apologize.
2. Historians often do operate on multiple levels when teaching or speaking on topics, the shallowest level is the broad strokes, boiling down complex issues to the major points. From there, specifics can be raised, individual points debated, and so on, the deeper and more specific the scholars wish to go, narrowing their focus and discussing the finer details.
3. Truth can be subjective. A difficult lesson, and one that goes counter to a logical mind, this is, nevertheless, the truth. There can certainly be an objective truth: Living humans do the following: We walk on the ground, we breathe air, we bleed. These are objectively true facts. But in any instance of conflict, the truth can be entirely, wholly subjective. If you ask two people in the midst of a quarrel what is going on, you are likely to get similar but different answers. Even when each are being entirely truthful, they will experience different things. This fact makes recording and researching subjects like history to be incredibly challenging.
So I do understand and acknowledge that the stories you grew up with are undoubtedly different than the ones I was taught. I do understand that I was over-simplifying and showing an innate bias when I regrettably used the word 'cowardice'. So, let me put this forth:
The past is the past. There is no changing what has been. But we can choose to shape our future. I very much liked your analogy about the broken pot, the pieces scattered into different elements. You are correct, there is no way to make them fit together they way they were. In order to bring them together, it will have to be new. It heartens me to hear you acknowledge that something can be built from those broken pieces. And that is what I am trying to advocate for. What happened has happened. There is no changing what has been. Not anymore. And in truth, I do not think it should. The past shapes us, teaches us, strengthens us. If we let it, it can educate us in how not to make the same mistakes. As a prodigal yourself, are you not better for being part of the Compact? Is the way of life here, not better than the alternative?
You speak of your tribe, about their nomadic ways. Their concern that their way of life might vanish. The common folk of the Compact are never bound to one place. They are free to travel as they wish to. It might be that they would have to broker agreements with lords over the lands they travel through, but think of how much less stressful that would be if there was not the fear of being at odds with those soldiers? Of being able to discuss issues with the lord? They could supplement their hunts with supplies traded with villagers or merchants. They could sell excess furs or meat for items that might make their lives easier. They could avoid starvation in the lean times.
I am positive there are things wrong with my vision. That, being someone born, raised and of the Peerage I do not see. But I do see the benefits. I see the lack of fear, I see support offered. I see all the reasons to come home. For I truly think your people would be happier in the long run by coming home.
Written By Venturo
Jan. 12, 2019, 11:17 a.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
The atmosphere at the Raconteur last night was quite energetic and boastful after the work of several of the promoters for the races had their way with the crowds. Given I've heard conversations of all of our riders, it's clear each did their job to a T. So many toasts encouraged by men standing on tables, princesses and ladies on chairs, and the booming voices of a Duke and a fine servant of Malespero has left quite the mess for poor Zane to clean up this morning. Of course, there was some of the groups who were all snickering about how the black knight riding a monster was going to show up that noble lady... I'm rather not sure what that was all about!
Yet, the most remarkable thing of it all? The conversations were all quite jovial and friendly, to boot. The promoters did a grand job of focusing on their riders positives and not disparaging the others. In these times especially, such unity and friendly competition gives a sense of stability to those in Arx that we shall get through these trying times.
Yet, the most remarkable thing of it all? The conversations were all quite jovial and friendly, to boot. The promoters did a grand job of focusing on their riders positives and not disparaging the others. In these times especially, such unity and friendly competition gives a sense of stability to those in Arx that we shall get through these trying times.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 12, 2019, 10:39 a.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
I have been remiss about my journal postings so here are 3 unrelated items.
I went to the Artshall Spring Fete and quite enjoyed myself. I also got compliments on my dress, which was very much appreciated, as I took a bit of a risk with the umbra instead of aeterna.
The Good Duke was a rounding success. Congrats to everyone involved. The afterparty was also much fun, and it was lovely to see Duke Harlan out and about, though I worry he taxes himself before he is quite ready. I suppose that is only to be expected.
It seems we have need of diplomats on an ongoing basis, now to try to ease the tensions along the Great Road. Hopefully we will be able to sort things out to a successful compromise.
I went to the Artshall Spring Fete and quite enjoyed myself. I also got compliments on my dress, which was very much appreciated, as I took a bit of a risk with the umbra instead of aeterna.
The Good Duke was a rounding success. Congrats to everyone involved. The afterparty was also much fun, and it was lovely to see Duke Harlan out and about, though I worry he taxes himself before he is quite ready. I suppose that is only to be expected.
It seems we have need of diplomats on an ongoing basis, now to try to ease the tensions along the Great Road. Hopefully we will be able to sort things out to a successful compromise.
Written By Thena
Jan. 12, 2019, 10:36 a.m.(5/6/1010 AR)
I’ve been thinking a lot about the Great Road lately. And I would like to clarify a few things about my stance.
I supported it. I still do. My Order serves the goddess of trade and civilization. What has been happening during the construction grieves me deeply. But I can’t turn my back on this project, especially now.
Was it a mistake? I don’t know. I may never know.
I did fail. I reached too far and I injured others by doing so. As Sir Preston said, it is heartbreaking. But failure is a part of life and that’s that. What’s done is done.
I would like to extend my humble thanks to the many people of the Compact who have reached out and offered their support to my Order. With their aid I am sure that we will soon be able to rebuild our numbers and secure the roads of Arvum, as is our sworn duty to the gods.
Gild light all our paths.
I supported it. I still do. My Order serves the goddess of trade and civilization. What has been happening during the construction grieves me deeply. But I can’t turn my back on this project, especially now.
Was it a mistake? I don’t know. I may never know.
I did fail. I reached too far and I injured others by doing so. As Sir Preston said, it is heartbreaking. But failure is a part of life and that’s that. What’s done is done.
I would like to extend my humble thanks to the many people of the Compact who have reached out and offered their support to my Order. With their aid I am sure that we will soon be able to rebuild our numbers and secure the roads of Arvum, as is our sworn duty to the gods.
Gild light all our paths.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.