Written By Sabella
Jan. 1, 2021, 11:13 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
The children and Niklas and I have returned from our unexpected trip to Bastion. While there, I took the opportunity to do some quiet reflection and prayer. I have been called the People's Princess - I intend to live up to that.
Though it has only been a few short days since getting back to the city, things have already been a whirlwind of excitement! Niklas and I found ourselves the center of an unexpected 'family reunion' at Lottie's with Elizabetha, Wash, Catalana, and Cecilia (with a few others mingling). Niklas and I are planning a ball! Inspiration strikes when you least expect it. And the children were feeling a bit fussy and lonely, so I arranged for the three Ashford children to visit overnight. I am thinking it would be good to arrange regular activities for the children so they can stay active and build relationships early - like I was able to with the Bislands.
Though it has only been a few short days since getting back to the city, things have already been a whirlwind of excitement! Niklas and I found ourselves the center of an unexpected 'family reunion' at Lottie's with Elizabetha, Wash, Catalana, and Cecilia (with a few others mingling). Niklas and I are planning a ball! Inspiration strikes when you least expect it. And the children were feeling a bit fussy and lonely, so I arranged for the three Ashford children to visit overnight. I am thinking it would be good to arrange regular activities for the children so they can stay active and build relationships early - like I was able to with the Bislands.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 1, 2021, 10:56 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
Congratulations to House Shepherd! I am delighted for Duke Malcolm and Duchess Delilah and looking forward to meeting the newest little Shepherds in due course.
Written By Lisebet
Jan. 1, 2021, 10:52 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
Harlan has purchased a beautiful necklace for me. It deserves an outfit to match. I suppose I shall have to find the right outfit to go with it now.
Written By Audgrim
Jan. 1, 2021, 10:33 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
Once I've set my mind on something, I don't really waste time - so the shop is set up, I'm apprenticing under Apollo, I've met old acquiantances and reached out for mercenary work and I got some hooks on it already.
Learned something big yesterday. Big enough to make a man drink.
Learned something big yesterday. Big enough to make a man drink.
Written By Mabelle
Jan. 1, 2021, 9:54 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
When I inspect my role in the life of someone I care for, I'd like to imagine a pearl necklace:
If the pearls are all different shapes, sizes and colors then I am happy to be one of those pearls.
However, if the pearls are all the same, equal in size and shape and you cannot differ one from the other, I rather be the string or the clasp that holds the necklace together.
in any case, I am not interested in being just another indistinguished pearl.
If the pearls are all different shapes, sizes and colors then I am happy to be one of those pearls.
However, if the pearls are all the same, equal in size and shape and you cannot differ one from the other, I rather be the string or the clasp that holds the necklace together.
in any case, I am not interested in being just another indistinguished pearl.
Written By Macario
Jan. 1, 2021, 8:06 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
Ghost stories are terrifying. And inconveniencing! Just the other day, I was flirting with a lovely leggy artist. She was blushing terribly, and that only encouraged me. There was a man standing next to her. I took him for a statue, he was so stiff, and his cheeks were also turning red. It seemed less a blush.
Anyway, I kept flirting with the seamstress up until she mentioned something about hearing a ghost the other day in their attic. I'm sure she was joking! She said that to the stiff man beside her. Come to think of it, maybe that was her husband? Anyway, an unimportant detail... the moment she mentioned the ghost, I was the one being stiff! I muttered and changed the topic about the weather.
Anyway, I kept flirting with the seamstress up until she mentioned something about hearing a ghost the other day in their attic. I'm sure she was joking! She said that to the stiff man beside her. Come to think of it, maybe that was her husband? Anyway, an unimportant detail... the moment she mentioned the ghost, I was the one being stiff! I muttered and changed the topic about the weather.
Written By Mabelle
Jan. 1, 2021, 6:59 a.m.(9/4/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Saverio
What a delightful event held at Saikland Greens by Lady Medeia.
I was surprised to find my esteemed protege there and spend a night learning of Lycene games and pushing boundries.
I do adore people who take me out of my comfort zone.
I was surprised to find my esteemed protege there and spend a night learning of Lycene games and pushing boundries.
I do adore people who take me out of my comfort zone.
Written By Savio
Jan. 1, 2021, 4:40 a.m.(9/3/1014 AR)
Anchors away and this mainland boy
Is looking oh so green
Clinging to the edge like this'll be the end
Heaved and hunched like he's gonna lose his lunch
He's the only one I see
Land ahoy and this mainland boy
Wants to get away from the sea
Trying to stay chill and looking pretty ill
Saying his prayers and running for the stairs
Oh, he's the one for me
He's got no sea legs and he can't sail
He doesn't know the doldrums from a gale
He can't sound depths and he can't read stars
If you put him in a ship he will not go far
The town's rejoined and this mainland boy
Is back to where he shines
Knowing every whispered word, every voice that's heard
Sharp on the streets that all have me beat
Oh, I hope that he'd be mine
You know who you are.
Is looking oh so green
Clinging to the edge like this'll be the end
Heaved and hunched like he's gonna lose his lunch
He's the only one I see
Land ahoy and this mainland boy
Wants to get away from the sea
Trying to stay chill and looking pretty ill
Saying his prayers and running for the stairs
Oh, he's the one for me
He's got no sea legs and he can't sail
He doesn't know the doldrums from a gale
He can't sound depths and he can't read stars
If you put him in a ship he will not go far
The town's rejoined and this mainland boy
Is back to where he shines
Knowing every whispered word, every voice that's heard
Sharp on the streets that all have me beat
Oh, I hope that he'd be mine
You know who you are.
Written By Delilah
Dec. 31, 2020, 2:03 p.m.(9/2/1014 AR)
I certainly feel as though I've swallowed the moon. Now the moon wants out.
Written By Dio
Dec. 31, 2020, 11:21 a.m.(9/2/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Ilira
I recently met with someone I hold in high esteem. She visited the manor on a splendid summer evening, and shared a drink beside the clavichord. Being in the presence of that enchanting reminder of my wife may have influenced by mood, but my guest, in contrast to many of power whom I encounter, possess some imperishable fire. There is a great warmth felt by those she chooses to let beside that flame, and in pleasing conversation, I found myself forgetting all save a moment of shared humanity. A quick word, however, shattered that dream, and I was, again, the instrument of war that I shall always be, whether reviled or held sacred for my purpose.
Such is the fate of all nobles who strive to keep their oaths.
I later visited the Shrine of the Thirteenth to reflect on the letter of Princess Sorrel, and was met by Sister Giada. She spoke with me, and in her wisdom set me to an exercise that, in pursuing, I have found myself becoming an ever more prefect instrument, a sharper sword in the hands of Prince Sebastian, Princess Lucrezia and the Archduchess.
Yet I opened a missive recently inviting me to the Empyrean, where I spoke a while with the Whisper Ilira. I imagine that if a life of war does not make me a monster, it will be on account of those words from the lips of a Whisper reminding me what I'm fighting for, what can be gained with victory, and the pleasure of stolen moments between friends.
Such is the fate of all nobles who strive to keep their oaths.
I later visited the Shrine of the Thirteenth to reflect on the letter of Princess Sorrel, and was met by Sister Giada. She spoke with me, and in her wisdom set me to an exercise that, in pursuing, I have found myself becoming an ever more prefect instrument, a sharper sword in the hands of Prince Sebastian, Princess Lucrezia and the Archduchess.
Yet I opened a missive recently inviting me to the Empyrean, where I spoke a while with the Whisper Ilira. I imagine that if a life of war does not make me a monster, it will be on account of those words from the lips of a Whisper reminding me what I'm fighting for, what can be gained with victory, and the pleasure of stolen moments between friends.
Written By Duarte
Dec. 31, 2020, 6:12 a.m.(9/2/1014 AR)
Journal
I had already been orphaned when João fled Setarco. We all had been. But now I was alone.
But I had been lucky. "Orphan" can cover a great many experiences. In the case of my ward, Lord Orland, it means never knowing your parents at all. It means growing in a communal house with other children. It means owning nothing. Inheriting nothing.
I, at least, had known my father. I had our little shack. I had his tools I could sell for money, along with what little belongings Tiago had and what João had left behind.
As an aside: I don't presume João is dead. Were he to return to my life he would not find any solace in my house and I would not grant him a title.
I had to determine how to live at this point. Selling used tools, clothing and possessions would not last forever. But I had no skills to speak of. I had no family. I didn't particularly know anybody.
But I would see, often, the Suspires. They would be draped in exquisite finery. They would be attending to some of the wealthiest in the city. They would ornament the arms of foreign dignitaries. Often they would come and go from the Pravus estate itself. Aristocrats from all over Setara and even some from across the Lyceum seas would arrive. They would attend instruction in the House of Silken Sighs during the days and would carouse in the evenings, accompanied often by the very same.
If ever any two things in existence stood as distinct opposites, it would have been me watching them. There was the life of abundant means. Abundant feeling. I was watching what it meant to survive several echelons above barest necessity.
I have often told people I trained as a courtier, this being a bit of a shortcut, but it isn't true. I've never been instructed as a courtier. I could never afford admission to the House of Silken Sighs. I was not in possession of any such means. I was not in possession of any talent, recognition, birthright or promise to be 'taken in' either.
But if I could just talk to one...
I had already been orphaned when João fled Setarco. We all had been. But now I was alone.
But I had been lucky. "Orphan" can cover a great many experiences. In the case of my ward, Lord Orland, it means never knowing your parents at all. It means growing in a communal house with other children. It means owning nothing. Inheriting nothing.
I, at least, had known my father. I had our little shack. I had his tools I could sell for money, along with what little belongings Tiago had and what João had left behind.
As an aside: I don't presume João is dead. Were he to return to my life he would not find any solace in my house and I would not grant him a title.
I had to determine how to live at this point. Selling used tools, clothing and possessions would not last forever. But I had no skills to speak of. I had no family. I didn't particularly know anybody.
But I would see, often, the Suspires. They would be draped in exquisite finery. They would be attending to some of the wealthiest in the city. They would ornament the arms of foreign dignitaries. Often they would come and go from the Pravus estate itself. Aristocrats from all over Setara and even some from across the Lyceum seas would arrive. They would attend instruction in the House of Silken Sighs during the days and would carouse in the evenings, accompanied often by the very same.
If ever any two things in existence stood as distinct opposites, it would have been me watching them. There was the life of abundant means. Abundant feeling. I was watching what it meant to survive several echelons above barest necessity.
I have often told people I trained as a courtier, this being a bit of a shortcut, but it isn't true. I've never been instructed as a courtier. I could never afford admission to the House of Silken Sighs. I was not in possession of any such means. I was not in possession of any talent, recognition, birthright or promise to be 'taken in' either.
But if I could just talk to one...
Written By Romulius
Dec. 31, 2020, 4:18 a.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Natasha
Both my longest friendship and the one that I hold most dear. Twenty years and I value her more every day.
Written By Mabelle
Dec. 31, 2020, 2 a.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Cristoph
My cousin broke his arm jousting.
It gave me distinct pleasure to take care of him.
I expect cake.
It gave me distinct pleasure to take care of him.
I expect cake.
Written By Bahiya
Dec. 31, 2020, 1:25 a.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Preparations for Prince Damik'uhl'daja's wake are ongoing. I find myself depending on Princess Katarina for her knowledge of the Arvani and their customs, keeping an eye on what must be done to house and protect the Eurusi that have found themselves masterless in the wake of his passing. For a man that we owe so much to, he was rather oblivious to the gift he gave us. Coming to Arvum was an adventure, a romance, and I daresay despite how dangerous it all was we were quite taken with his excitement.
I must admit, though; my loss is what many would consider a professional one. I cannot speak for those who loved and knew him personally as beloved or friend; the relationship I maintained with him was as his diplomat. I served him well and he appreciated that service; I am only agrieved he could not see what would have become of our work in the end.
There are other struggles I have, too; we broke with so many traditions coming to these shores. The Prince himself observed as many out of habit as he did culturally; I do not know what to keep for his wake. I do not expect to bind him in chains within his casket, nor would I want to even if I was asked. My understanding now of our religious observances has changed much of my perception, and in this?
He would laugh at me to see how I struggle with his end, how best to see him off into the next world. It is not as we thought it would be, I think; a better one has been given us, maybe. A chance for redemption not just in this life, but perhaps in the next.
Ah, my Prince. Such a game life was to you, such an adventure! I wonder if you will ever understand where your sense of adventure took us, and truly, what a gift it all turned out to be.
I must admit, though; my loss is what many would consider a professional one. I cannot speak for those who loved and knew him personally as beloved or friend; the relationship I maintained with him was as his diplomat. I served him well and he appreciated that service; I am only agrieved he could not see what would have become of our work in the end.
There are other struggles I have, too; we broke with so many traditions coming to these shores. The Prince himself observed as many out of habit as he did culturally; I do not know what to keep for his wake. I do not expect to bind him in chains within his casket, nor would I want to even if I was asked. My understanding now of our religious observances has changed much of my perception, and in this?
He would laugh at me to see how I struggle with his end, how best to see him off into the next world. It is not as we thought it would be, I think; a better one has been given us, maybe. A chance for redemption not just in this life, but perhaps in the next.
Ah, my Prince. Such a game life was to you, such an adventure! I wonder if you will ever understand where your sense of adventure took us, and truly, what a gift it all turned out to be.
Written By Tanith
Dec. 31, 2020, 1:04 a.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
We all handle pain differently. Grief too; the price of love, that's grief, and if I'm honest it's one I'm willing to pay. I've written about that before, prayed about it even more than that. I am thankful what I've been given, I know it's so much more than most and I'll never take it for granted. To feel, to care; even those I have trouble understanding, it's precious, all of it. The opposite of love isn't hate; it's apathy.
...don't look at me like that, scholar. It's been a long few days and he hasn't come home yet.
...don't look at me like that, scholar. It's been a long few days and he hasn't come home yet.
Written By Teague
Dec. 31, 2020, 12:24 a.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Lord Orland and Savio throw a great party tonight. That is all, that will be said.
Written By Catalana
Dec. 30, 2020, 10:58 p.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Wash
I don't know whether to be proud or infuriated but our eldest daughter has bested me for the first time.
Upon waking this morning Cirella told me that Daddy (Lord Wash) had done something dreadful and that she couldn't tell me. Since she believed that juggling knives, midnight sails and tossing items into a mystical whirlpool is safe, who knows what she thinks dreadful!
After an attempt to gently coax it out of her, she remarked that she could tell me if I buy her twelve pastries froklm Lottie's. I managed to negotiate her down to two. Upon entering Lottie's I find my dear husband who after informing him of the bribe and hoping he would share what it was looked horrorified and stood silent for a good moment before agreeing I should get her the pastries. At this point my heart is racing. What has he done that he can not tell me?!
Returning with the pastries, I ask my dear child what it was. Her response as she munched happily on her ill-gotten treats was, "He said a bad word." Further prompting and the handing over of the second treat revealed the dreadful word.
Buttock.
I'm not certain to laugh or cry. But my dear husband and child can be reached at his boat until their bouts of laughter subside.
Upon waking this morning Cirella told me that Daddy (Lord Wash) had done something dreadful and that she couldn't tell me. Since she believed that juggling knives, midnight sails and tossing items into a mystical whirlpool is safe, who knows what she thinks dreadful!
After an attempt to gently coax it out of her, she remarked that she could tell me if I buy her twelve pastries froklm Lottie's. I managed to negotiate her down to two. Upon entering Lottie's I find my dear husband who after informing him of the bribe and hoping he would share what it was looked horrorified and stood silent for a good moment before agreeing I should get her the pastries. At this point my heart is racing. What has he done that he can not tell me?!
Returning with the pastries, I ask my dear child what it was. Her response as she munched happily on her ill-gotten treats was, "He said a bad word." Further prompting and the handing over of the second treat revealed the dreadful word.
Buttock.
I'm not certain to laugh or cry. But my dear husband and child can be reached at his boat until their bouts of laughter subside.
Written By Delilah
Dec. 30, 2020, 10:09 p.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
I'm starting to wonder if feet are purely an optional matter.
Written By Allegra
Dec. 30, 2020, 6:31 p.m.(9/1/1014 AR)
Bella:
I know you will probably never read this, because the last time you read something from my journal you woke up with honey in your hair. Mother was so mad. In my defense, your hair never looked shinier. You're welcome.
Yet, perhaps what I am going to say is more so for myself and not for you anyhow.
My entire life I have always looked up to you. My entire life I have been always trying to make you proud of me. To be more than Archduchess Belladonna Pravus's little sister.
I am no longer the young girl who would rather have had her fingers in the pages of a book than the sands upon the beaches of Setarco.
I am no longer the girl who spent years in captivity and became known as "the lame Pravus Princess", the recipient of unrelenting sympathy; sympathy I never asked for.
I am no longer letting my past define me.
So, what am I?
I am a survivor.
I am the Minister of Upkeep for House Pravus, a position I take very seriously.
I am the coordinator for the entire operation in Pieros for the upcoming conflict with the Skal'daja.
But, perhaps most importantly I am Archduchess Belladonna Pravus' little sister and with the determination to make you proud I shall do great things.
~Alle
I know you will probably never read this, because the last time you read something from my journal you woke up with honey in your hair. Mother was so mad. In my defense, your hair never looked shinier. You're welcome.
Yet, perhaps what I am going to say is more so for myself and not for you anyhow.
My entire life I have always looked up to you. My entire life I have been always trying to make you proud of me. To be more than Archduchess Belladonna Pravus's little sister.
I am no longer the young girl who would rather have had her fingers in the pages of a book than the sands upon the beaches of Setarco.
I am no longer the girl who spent years in captivity and became known as "the lame Pravus Princess", the recipient of unrelenting sympathy; sympathy I never asked for.
I am no longer letting my past define me.
So, what am I?
I am a survivor.
I am the Minister of Upkeep for House Pravus, a position I take very seriously.
I am the coordinator for the entire operation in Pieros for the upcoming conflict with the Skal'daja.
But, perhaps most importantly I am Archduchess Belladonna Pravus' little sister and with the determination to make you proud I shall do great things.
~Alle
Written By Svana
Dec. 30, 2020, 5:19 p.m.(8/28/1014 AR)
Other people can proclaim to love her, but I'll knock them on their asses.
Except one particular red-headed waterfall. Probably not her.
Except one particular red-headed waterfall. Probably not her.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.