Written By Khanne
Nov. 17, 2018, 12:30 p.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Those who are part of Whisper House are of course entitled to their own thoughts and opinions, and are also of course free to express them. The Whispers, however, are known for and revered for their grace, elegance, and diplomacy... and I wonder if the manner in which the particular opinion about how people grieve and who they grieve for, how they think of their loved ones who have passed as opposed to how this one person thinks of them, was done in such a graceful, elegant, and diplomatic manner if that opinion has raised the ire of so many people across so many sections of Arx society.
But, I am Half Savage... so what do I know of grace?
But, I am Half Savage... so what do I know of grace?
Written By Elgana
Nov. 17, 2018, 12:02 p.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
I am so happy to hear that my cousin has finally wed! Gwenna and Lorenzo are a fine match and I know this will only help strengthen Redrain in the years to come. For them, I wish nothing but the sweetness that life has to offer.
And plenty of babies.
And plenty of babies.
Written By Nurie
Nov. 17, 2018, 11 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
What can be repaired has been, and what needs replacing has been replaced.
A damaged cloak was repaired to its betterment in a way that truly surprised me. I wonder if I should experiment with dyeing silk with tea as well. On purpose! It imparted a flexibility and interesting gradient of hue that might be fun to play with, without my heart in my throat at the potential ruination of something already crafted!
But still--it is disconcerting. I suppose I'd come to regard my little corner of the city as something peaceful, something joyful. There's nothing quite like seeing someone's eyes light up with joy as they look down at the fit of a garment created just for them. Or a companion's sparkling smile as they view their sweet one's gift at its fitting, where we add all the final personal touches. But I must remember that business is business, and even there the games are played, not just between the nobility, but many others. Games of words, both kind and unkind. I would be lying too, if there wasn't a degree of showmanship, wanting to outfit the best and brightest, to the most success! And so I must be stronger, and not quite wear my heart on my sleeve so much. I can do it!
A damaged cloak was repaired to its betterment in a way that truly surprised me. I wonder if I should experiment with dyeing silk with tea as well. On purpose! It imparted a flexibility and interesting gradient of hue that might be fun to play with, without my heart in my throat at the potential ruination of something already crafted!
But still--it is disconcerting. I suppose I'd come to regard my little corner of the city as something peaceful, something joyful. There's nothing quite like seeing someone's eyes light up with joy as they look down at the fit of a garment created just for them. Or a companion's sparkling smile as they view their sweet one's gift at its fitting, where we add all the final personal touches. But I must remember that business is business, and even there the games are played, not just between the nobility, but many others. Games of words, both kind and unkind. I would be lying too, if there wasn't a degree of showmanship, wanting to outfit the best and brightest, to the most success! And so I must be stronger, and not quite wear my heart on my sleeve so much. I can do it!
Written By Cassima
Nov. 17, 2018, 10:53 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Gareth
As is my prerogative to record these great historical moments, I note in these whites that some days prior the Prince Gareth Grayson, my intended for some time now, passed in the defense of the Lodge.
We allowed our mutual fear of grand parties and public attention to delay our intended union. I believe that fact shall be the single greatest regret of my entire life.
That is all I shall say about that.
We allowed our mutual fear of grand parties and public attention to delay our intended union. I believe that fact shall be the single greatest regret of my entire life.
That is all I shall say about that.
Written By Ouida
Nov. 17, 2018, 10:51 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
As I now hold the service of a page for the first time, I find that rather than it being a burden, it brings back many fond memories. Though at the time that I first served as page, I would not have had many fond things to say!
Young Niall, however, is not some hardheaded fearsome get of an an Oathland's noble as I was, but a good boy and eager to learn. His people newly bent the knee and returned to the Compact upon our lands. I asked his mother for one of her best prospects, not thinking that she would entrust to me her own son. He has been absorbing his lessons well, seeming to neither resent or feel shame at being a mote older than most of the other boys of his station. And in truth, in answer his questions about the Faith, or seeking with him their answers, I find that it opens my eyes and removes some of my own complicity. I had forgotten the joy at seeing so many things anew. We do not get much snow upon the Island, though we do have some, but from the sounds of his laughter and merriment in joining the other younger servants and pages and squires at the keep in their play in the courtyard at the first heavy snow here, I think perhaps it was one of the first times that he was able to enjoy it in comfort. He wants to be a part of everything, underfoot no matter how many errands I send him on delivering messages or polishing armor or yet again quizzing him on his heraldry. It is both maddening and endearing. I wondering if my own antics as a page were so endearing to my old gruff knight?
I feared not, when I served him, but now I remember his heavy hand on my shoulder, or the faint hint of a smile before he put on the scowl and sent me off to do some new drudgery, and I think it must have been there.
So too, I wonder, if he also felt that heaviness of heart and spirit to know that it would be in his company that he saw the first innocent light go out of my eyes, when under his tutelage I first knew the feeling of blood on my hands, that could not be scrubbed off, no matter how hard I tried. It is a necessity, that Niall will someday kill under our banner as well, and unless I meet an end before it, he will do so at my behest. It is one thing to command soldiers, grown men and women, and knights--who have for the most part chosen to take up the sword and all that entails. And most of us see death long before the blade calls to us or is pressed upon us--but that first act of purposeful killing, not by personal choice but by duty...it is not something forgotten. I just had never considered how it might feel to be the one to shepherd that into being, for another. For if I am honest, I serve Niall almost as much as he serves me, and his family now not only owes the Harthalls their fealty, but we owe them our protection. I hope that I am as stalwart and valuable a servant and guide to him, as my grizzled old knight was to me.
Young Niall, however, is not some hardheaded fearsome get of an an Oathland's noble as I was, but a good boy and eager to learn. His people newly bent the knee and returned to the Compact upon our lands. I asked his mother for one of her best prospects, not thinking that she would entrust to me her own son. He has been absorbing his lessons well, seeming to neither resent or feel shame at being a mote older than most of the other boys of his station. And in truth, in answer his questions about the Faith, or seeking with him their answers, I find that it opens my eyes and removes some of my own complicity. I had forgotten the joy at seeing so many things anew. We do not get much snow upon the Island, though we do have some, but from the sounds of his laughter and merriment in joining the other younger servants and pages and squires at the keep in their play in the courtyard at the first heavy snow here, I think perhaps it was one of the first times that he was able to enjoy it in comfort. He wants to be a part of everything, underfoot no matter how many errands I send him on delivering messages or polishing armor or yet again quizzing him on his heraldry. It is both maddening and endearing. I wondering if my own antics as a page were so endearing to my old gruff knight?
I feared not, when I served him, but now I remember his heavy hand on my shoulder, or the faint hint of a smile before he put on the scowl and sent me off to do some new drudgery, and I think it must have been there.
So too, I wonder, if he also felt that heaviness of heart and spirit to know that it would be in his company that he saw the first innocent light go out of my eyes, when under his tutelage I first knew the feeling of blood on my hands, that could not be scrubbed off, no matter how hard I tried. It is a necessity, that Niall will someday kill under our banner as well, and unless I meet an end before it, he will do so at my behest. It is one thing to command soldiers, grown men and women, and knights--who have for the most part chosen to take up the sword and all that entails. And most of us see death long before the blade calls to us or is pressed upon us--but that first act of purposeful killing, not by personal choice but by duty...it is not something forgotten. I just had never considered how it might feel to be the one to shepherd that into being, for another. For if I am honest, I serve Niall almost as much as he serves me, and his family now not only owes the Harthalls their fealty, but we owe them our protection. I hope that I am as stalwart and valuable a servant and guide to him, as my grizzled old knight was to me.
Written By Calaudrin
Nov. 17, 2018, 10:40 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Daemon
He always struck me as a little neurotic. But you can still be quirky and count as one of the good ones. Best of luck next time around, guy. I hope you don't come back as street cleaner or janitor.
Written By Ouida
Nov. 17, 2018, 10:30 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
It can be somewhat of a blow to the ego, to admit that one does not have the companionship that they wish. On the other hand, sometimes adversity is the ticket to delight, as was the case with Mistress Solange Whisper's lovely recent event. In truth, I have not had much time to enjoy an evening of socialization that was not a family gathering or war preparation or a larger scale event that most frequently makes one feel decidedly like a fish out of water in quite some time. I met some charming and interesting new people, with time enough to engage in conversation. It seems a pity to live within a large city such as Arx and not take advantage of the opportunities it presents to learn more, seek more, and enjoy those whom cross your path. Not a sentiment amiss in the turning of the new year, I think.
Written By Alexandre
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:47 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Daemon
Sir Daemon died not on the field of battle, but back at Arx. Some wounds even our best healers can do nothing but watch the life slip away. Some wounds kill, just later. It's something both Mercy and Physician must accept, though it's not always easy. Yet even now, more needs to be done.
Though his killer is dead, others remain. If the roads of the Compact are to be safe for innocent travelers, pilgrims and refugees, then they must be dealt with.
It is my oath.
Though his killer is dead, others remain. If the roads of the Compact are to be safe for innocent travelers, pilgrims and refugees, then they must be dealt with.
It is my oath.
Written By Skye
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:47 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jordan
I remember the few times we sat together over board games and honed our military strategy. You had such a clever mind behind the sword. There is a pang to my heart for your loss. I celebrate that you died the way you lived with honor.
Written By Skye
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:37 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
You took me under your wing when I first arrived at Arx. You provided me sound critique on my ship designs and pushed me to be a better shipwright. In the absence of my father, who has been missing from my side these last few years, you filled that role as the gruff advisor. You were kind in your own way to a lost girl who struggled at first after losing her home. You helped me along the path of rebuilding Blackshore.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
Written By Thorley
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:23 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Bliss
A hero, by it's very name, is just that. Heroes are men and women and sometimes even a child or a squirrel that did their very best in the time of need and rose to the occasion. They may have or have not passed because of what they did. Every last veteran of the Silent War, the Gyre War, and this current war at the Lodge are /heroes/, big fucking damn ones, because they have kept Arx safe when it was needed the most. They answered the call of the King, they rose to the occasion, and they went out and defended the land.
A legend is a name has endured the test of time. They are the ones that the stories of told of. Legends are born in deed and in combat - and sometimes of both. Sir Westknight, Dame Sugan, Prince Cedric - the names of those that are spoken of in tale and story.
I have looked at your deeds and your work in the public annals, Bliss Whisper. You, in your own way, are a hero of the choices you have made. They have been carefully calculated and bent to exactly what your will wants it to be. You find your heroism in the safety of a mission. Goodwill, public relations, introducing and helping free thralls. Murdering rabbits to keep Arx safe.
Wulfwin Baseborn was a hero of the choices he made. He protected Dame Harrow when she needed it most, and paid for it with his life. Just as much as Dame Felicia Harrow is a hero in the slaying of the gargantuan that took Wulfwin's life.
The 262 of Solace are heroes of the choices that they made, in taking up the mantle and cause of the Lodge. Every person that died on the beaches of Southport against the Gyre are heroes.
You, yourself, claim that you sing of heroes. But what makes the difference between a hero and a legend?
A hero is remembered. A legend is never forgotten.
When your fan mail and dolls are put away, which will you be, Bliss Whisper?
A legend is a name has endured the test of time. They are the ones that the stories of told of. Legends are born in deed and in combat - and sometimes of both. Sir Westknight, Dame Sugan, Prince Cedric - the names of those that are spoken of in tale and story.
I have looked at your deeds and your work in the public annals, Bliss Whisper. You, in your own way, are a hero of the choices you have made. They have been carefully calculated and bent to exactly what your will wants it to be. You find your heroism in the safety of a mission. Goodwill, public relations, introducing and helping free thralls. Murdering rabbits to keep Arx safe.
Wulfwin Baseborn was a hero of the choices he made. He protected Dame Harrow when she needed it most, and paid for it with his life. Just as much as Dame Felicia Harrow is a hero in the slaying of the gargantuan that took Wulfwin's life.
The 262 of Solace are heroes of the choices that they made, in taking up the mantle and cause of the Lodge. Every person that died on the beaches of Southport against the Gyre are heroes.
You, yourself, claim that you sing of heroes. But what makes the difference between a hero and a legend?
A hero is remembered. A legend is never forgotten.
When your fan mail and dolls are put away, which will you be, Bliss Whisper?
Written By Corban
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:15 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Solange
Whisper Solange is to be commended for her first event at the Whisper House. I at first felt awkward for I did not consider myself a lonely heart, but she immediately put me (and us all) at ease. The game was fun and the conversation free-flowing.
Whisper Solange is an asset to her House.
Whisper Solange is an asset to her House.
Written By Harlex
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:13 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
I often do not sleep more than five or six hours a night. On a good night, undisturbed by dreams. I do not sleep alone and there is a comfort in watching your lover sleep. It is a quiet jubilation and I think one of the rare gifts of the gods.
Perhaps that is all transitory death is, between lives, is us being awake and watching our loved ones sleep.
But this morning I felt the warmth of skin and the bundles of extra furs purchased to stave off the cold. No light could find it's way into the room and that was alright. I could see fine without.
I saw the shadows of that tapestry and a hair comb on the nightstand and swords in their rack, just fine metal and no burden upon them. I swear, too, I saw the breath of the wood on the walls, yearning from the weather, or it was just a trick of the light.
And I had a notion that all this death and frustration and sorrow and the spilling of our blood on sacred land is a price that we are being asked to pay more than anything else. It is a tax, or a toll, and for it--well, we will see.
I have not really prayed beyond the accursed things I've said in anger. I do not like to ask for things. That is just my way. But that morning I asked. I prayed for a few hours more peace, an unhurried day, maybe a good fight or two and some luck. I prayed, as well, that we'd look at what's been given and we'd know as a people we did all we could, we gave all we could give, and we did right. And we are seen.
Seems only fair.
Perhaps that is all transitory death is, between lives, is us being awake and watching our loved ones sleep.
But this morning I felt the warmth of skin and the bundles of extra furs purchased to stave off the cold. No light could find it's way into the room and that was alright. I could see fine without.
I saw the shadows of that tapestry and a hair comb on the nightstand and swords in their rack, just fine metal and no burden upon them. I swear, too, I saw the breath of the wood on the walls, yearning from the weather, or it was just a trick of the light.
And I had a notion that all this death and frustration and sorrow and the spilling of our blood on sacred land is a price that we are being asked to pay more than anything else. It is a tax, or a toll, and for it--well, we will see.
I have not really prayed beyond the accursed things I've said in anger. I do not like to ask for things. That is just my way. But that morning I asked. I prayed for a few hours more peace, an unhurried day, maybe a good fight or two and some luck. I prayed, as well, that we'd look at what's been given and we'd know as a people we did all we could, we gave all we could give, and we did right. And we are seen.
Seems only fair.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:11 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Saoirse
I've had an opportunity to go to battle with Duke Aiden Rubino in the Battle of Stormwall. He's neither stupid or incompetent in his actions. I was not there. I can not speak to what happened between you and him. However, when darkness is at my doorstep, he's someone I would be grateful to have at my side. I would not place shade on his abilities so lightly.
Nor would I discount a raptor's innate sense to the world around them. That's the interesting thing about animals, they can sense things that humans are often blind to. But then having an innate sense of the world around you is perhaps something that challenges you. I suggest you spend more time in the field, working with these amazing birds of prey. Perhaps they will teach you a new perspective.
Nor would I discount a raptor's innate sense to the world around them. That's the interesting thing about animals, they can sense things that humans are often blind to. But then having an innate sense of the world around you is perhaps something that challenges you. I suggest you spend more time in the field, working with these amazing birds of prey. Perhaps they will teach you a new perspective.
Written By Perronne
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:40 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
I have a patron: the esteemed Grandmaster of the Knights of Solace, Dame Thena.
It is something of a peculiar sensation, for I have spent years working to prove that I could establish myself without needing the support of a social superior (no offense to said superiors). And I've done that, I think. I'm not the most important merchant in Arx, or the Compact, but I've become more than comfortable, and the Almanac was a great success. Dame Thena has also worked her way up from the bottom, and I can respect that, especially as she's chosen to do it in service to the gods, and risks her life regularly so that other people may survive and thrive. I like that! We're not very similar, in outlook or personality, but I think we shall do well together.
And we will do many exciting things! Which I'm very much looking forward to.
It is something of a peculiar sensation, for I have spent years working to prove that I could establish myself without needing the support of a social superior (no offense to said superiors). And I've done that, I think. I'm not the most important merchant in Arx, or the Compact, but I've become more than comfortable, and the Almanac was a great success. Dame Thena has also worked her way up from the bottom, and I can respect that, especially as she's chosen to do it in service to the gods, and risks her life regularly so that other people may survive and thrive. I like that! We're not very similar, in outlook or personality, but I think we shall do well together.
And we will do many exciting things! Which I'm very much looking forward to.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:39 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Cybele
You were a force of nature who served the Faith for many years while keeping true to the Old Ways. I envy your ability to navigate both sides. When I struggle to walk my path, I shall visit your sapling as a reminder that being Faithful doesn't mean giving up your traditions.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:35 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Daemon
You served with honor.
It's been my honor to lead you both as Sword of Sanctum in House Valardin and as Warchief to House Redrain in the Battle of Stormwall. To have you fall to a poison knife strikes me as a great wrong since you were killed by deceit while trying to rescue others. I mourn for you brother of arms. Valardin's light will be a little darker without you.
It's been my honor to lead you both as Sword of Sanctum in House Valardin and as Warchief to House Redrain in the Battle of Stormwall. To have you fall to a poison knife strikes me as a great wrong since you were killed by deceit while trying to rescue others. I mourn for you brother of arms. Valardin's light will be a little darker without you.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:25 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Jordan
You were my student, but you taught me many things. You were there for me during some of my darkness days to offer comfort. To know that you made the ultimate sacrifice for your liege makes me so incredibly proud. You know what it meant to serve as Sword, and you carried the honor of your house up until the very end. To know I had a hand in that humbles me greatly. Even after you eclipsed my teachings, you continued to send the next generation of fighters to learn from me. That is a true compliment.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:19 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
The first time we spoke was at a funeral pyre. The bodies of the fallen were burning and the Grim Duke gave them a sendoff worthy of Thrax. After my battle cry to honor the dead, he told me that for an Oathlander, I would make a worthy Thrax.
You were a traditionalist, a hard man who lived life with a grim frown. But you watched over your people with such fierceness, I had to admire your perspective, even if I didn't always agree. We never let our differences get between our respect for each other.
The world will be a grimmer place without you in it. I shall miss you my friend.
You were a traditionalist, a hard man who lived life with a grim frown. But you watched over your people with such fierceness, I had to admire your perspective, even if I didn't always agree. We never let our differences get between our respect for each other.
The world will be a grimmer place without you in it. I shall miss you my friend.
Written By Evaristo
Nov. 17, 2018, 5:49 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
I've had some remarkably boring few weeks where I've been working with little adventure, apart for a few strange encounters down in the lowers where I had to either run to avoid being stabbed or an angry customer claimed something outrageously wrong.
I've done a few short runs down the coast when the weather has permitted. An odd increase in people wanting to go visit their families that don't live in Arx, maybe the strange occurances out at the Lodge has affected some?
I've done a few short runs down the coast when the weather has permitted. An odd increase in people wanting to go visit their families that don't live in Arx, maybe the strange occurances out at the Lodge has affected some?
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.