Written By Calandra
July 3, 2019, 12:58 a.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Today's hunt, generously sponsored by Princess Zara Valardin and Princess Tikva Grayson, was a magnificent display of skill on the part of the participants. It's been some time since I last spectated one, but one can never forget the thrill of it. I doubt I will ever be as skilled with large weapons as they, but maybe in time I might learn the bow, which Princess Tikva was so kind to offer.
I have such deep gratitude to Princess Zara, however, for the stunning outfit she provided me that I was able to show for her at the feast. She has a mind for fashion I can't help but admire.
Princess Reese took first place for felling a mighty stag while Sparte Grayfallow took second. Sir Jeffeth took third for taking down the black boar, though from what I hear he wrestled it with his bare hands? An impressive and dangerous feat on its own, surely.
All in all an eventful day, I would say. Though one born of the city, I quite enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. I'll have to make a note to plan for more outings soon just so I can experience more of it.
I have such deep gratitude to Princess Zara, however, for the stunning outfit she provided me that I was able to show for her at the feast. She has a mind for fashion I can't help but admire.
Princess Reese took first place for felling a mighty stag while Sparte Grayfallow took second. Sir Jeffeth took third for taking down the black boar, though from what I hear he wrestled it with his bare hands? An impressive and dangerous feat on its own, surely.
All in all an eventful day, I would say. Though one born of the city, I quite enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. I'll have to make a note to plan for more outings soon just so I can experience more of it.
Written By Vincenzo
July 2, 2019, 11:49 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Niccolo
It was a beautiful spring morning today, I woke early for a meeting with importers at the botanical gardens. Seeing the sunrise touch pearls of dew, turning gemmed petals with a golden hue and breathing in the light perfume was simply perfect, plus the deal sealed was absolutely excellent for all parties. And so it came that I heard the passing of a man I once had the privilege of calling uncle.
That old fox played the game very well, making allies and gaining powerful enemies as each seemed to be fluid depending on the moment. Death comes for all, we just choose whether we'll meet her with honor or not.
I'll remember something you taught though. Failure is required in order to grow, and without it, I'd stagnate and grow complacent. You said don't be ruled by failure or pain, learn to accept it and learn from it so I might grow. And above all, find out the truth from that experience and bring it to the light.
I've failed those whom I loved the most in this world, and I failed specifically one treasured above all. I will use the memory of the man who was once my uncle and set out to do something different, a new adventure. To take a new risk and grow.
Vapid enemy hiding in plain sight, always so hungry to devour while you search what you can't have. You and your friends have grown complacent because you don't embrace that failure can make you better.
I'm coming.
That old fox played the game very well, making allies and gaining powerful enemies as each seemed to be fluid depending on the moment. Death comes for all, we just choose whether we'll meet her with honor or not.
I'll remember something you taught though. Failure is required in order to grow, and without it, I'd stagnate and grow complacent. You said don't be ruled by failure or pain, learn to accept it and learn from it so I might grow. And above all, find out the truth from that experience and bring it to the light.
I've failed those whom I loved the most in this world, and I failed specifically one treasured above all. I will use the memory of the man who was once my uncle and set out to do something different, a new adventure. To take a new risk and grow.
Vapid enemy hiding in plain sight, always so hungry to devour while you search what you can't have. You and your friends have grown complacent because you don't embrace that failure can make you better.
I'm coming.
Written By Mirari
July 2, 2019, 11:42 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Delilah
My cat eats bugs. Is this knowledge that fills you with burning questions? I promise you that knowledge will not "die" even if it doesn't.
Written By Valencia
July 2, 2019, 10:49 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Niccolo
No words. Heart finally fully broken.
Written By Duarte
July 2, 2019, 10:38 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
A day and a night in the Shrine of the Thirteen.
Here I begin a tour through each sanctum dedicated to Gods, and thus ending (somewhat) what has been perhaps a years' reclusion.
Oh I've had a time of it, but nightmares and lessening appetites seem a paltry plight, pondering predicaments plaguing paupers.
I shan't describe in detail here any affliction. I'm certain nothing that has happened to me exists. I have a wild imagination, it seems. Hopefully a healthy dose of religion can temper it? Bring it to heel?
And so my first day is here contemplating the part(s) of me that have primarily propelled self to the circumstances in which I am found.
And as I gaze upon my own visage I can't help but reflect that those drives and motivations that have led to this dismay are the very same that have brought me my greatest success.
Sagacity would be practiced in knowing one's greatest strengths are also the very thing that can condemn one. A chink in every armor. Soft spots in every sword.
A lesson learned too late?
Hmm. Hmmmm.
Here I begin a tour through each sanctum dedicated to Gods, and thus ending (somewhat) what has been perhaps a years' reclusion.
Oh I've had a time of it, but nightmares and lessening appetites seem a paltry plight, pondering predicaments plaguing paupers.
I shan't describe in detail here any affliction. I'm certain nothing that has happened to me exists. I have a wild imagination, it seems. Hopefully a healthy dose of religion can temper it? Bring it to heel?
And so my first day is here contemplating the part(s) of me that have primarily propelled self to the circumstances in which I am found.
And as I gaze upon my own visage I can't help but reflect that those drives and motivations that have led to this dismay are the very same that have brought me my greatest success.
Sagacity would be practiced in knowing one's greatest strengths are also the very thing that can condemn one. A chink in every armor. Soft spots in every sword.
A lesson learned too late?
Hmm. Hmmmm.
Written By Arman
July 2, 2019, 10:06 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Niccolo
Forever emblazoned within my memory shall be the day you stood as the victor of the Tournament of Roses, the horns of a hundred heralds at your back as all eyes turned to you for the moment in which you asked your boon from the King. I will never forget the gasps that ruptured throughout the audience, Peer and commoner alike and the look of adoration that filled my cousin's face. While by today's standards your acts would be far less of a surprise, marriage born in love becoming more common amongst the Peerage, I fear they forget it was you who paved the way for them and shocked a kingdom. Your bravery in the face of the court of public opinion.
I may not have agreed with it then and I may not agree with it now, but you changed the world as we knew it.
I may not have agreed with it then and I may not agree with it now, but you changed the world as we knew it.
Written By Calista
July 2, 2019, 9:34 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Niccolo
I heard the news today and could not believe it. My heart is broken but I am ever so grateful for the time in which we became more than allies. We shared in grief and joy together, but where it not for your guidance, your patience, kindness, and friendship, I would have made many mistakes those first couple of years after Leo's disappearance. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all that you taught me. Rest sweetly in peace.
Written By Rysen
July 2, 2019, 6:22 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Elisha
I will admit this much: your words have caused me to reflect with unflinching attention. I do not always like what I've seen.
Written By Sparte
July 2, 2019, 5:29 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
It is so easy to forget the quill that rests with the tome. I met another person who collected books but does not write, and it just left me feeling sad for them.
Written By Delilah
July 2, 2019, 2:44 p.m.(5/22/1011 AR)
Any knowledge that doesn't lead to new questions quickly dies out: it fails to maintain the temperature required for sustaining life.
Written By Rysen
July 2, 2019, 12:49 p.m.(5/21/1011 AR)
The Tournament of Thorns shone brightly with fierce competition, and stunning prizes. The event was wreathed in wonder, almost as if the Judgement Green had truly become the land of Aildorich, where the next ruler would be decided by demonstrated skill and Fortune's fickle love.
My sincere thanks to Lady Monique Greenmarch and my fellow thorn bearers for their time and effort - and also to the competitors, before whose collective talents my words must simply bow and stand in awe.
My sincere thanks to Lady Monique Greenmarch and my fellow thorn bearers for their time and effort - and also to the competitors, before whose collective talents my words must simply bow and stand in awe.
Written By Llewella
July 2, 2019, 12:43 p.m.(5/21/1011 AR)
I've returned to Arx and cannot help but be struck by how empty the halls of Melaeris are here. There are the servants and statues for company but little else.
The statues remind me of home at least. Everywhere these odd figures of knights in poses one would not normally put knightly statues. Crying. Praying. It makes me wonder what the history of each figure is, and realize that I do not know the answers at all.
What makes you cry, Sir Marble? To whom are you praying, Sir Granite?
The statues remind me of home at least. Everywhere these odd figures of knights in poses one would not normally put knightly statues. Crying. Praying. It makes me wonder what the history of each figure is, and realize that I do not know the answers at all.
What makes you cry, Sir Marble? To whom are you praying, Sir Granite?
Written By Lucita
July 2, 2019, 11:40 a.m.(5/21/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Niccolo
The Black Fox is gone? Prince Niccolo is gone? Memories of him standing strong on the walls of Setarco during the war fill my thoughts and sorrow, a sense of loss darkens the day.
Written By Elisha
July 2, 2019, 12:37 a.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
"Truth is a hungry thief who wears many cloaks." - Vellichor
* * *
What does one call a journal reduced by fire to a mineral? The quarry walls—tool-marked, wind-pitted—long ago contained our first alphabets and now cradle our final flames on their scree-ridden edges.
You excavate stones as columns, crowned with acanthus leaves, and I lose myself in your forest. Absent the whole, the part suffices. The gleam of my lover's laughter is the same color as the tongue of the asp; a blue flash at bright noon.
An image emerges from, disperses into, light. Above the ruined half-arch of the aqueduct, the water's silver shimmer becomes a skylady's noose. A gust of wind becomes stretched-leather wings, thinner than spiderweb, contain in fractal branching veins all the prisons we are afraid to escape.
Light shines through them, and disperses into light.
(What does one call the knight who wishes death upon a child held hostage by a prophesy? With what coin does the Seraph of Fireside buy the loyalty of the faith militant? Orazio whispers, "A title is the opposite of a dream," and renounces her title every night before closing her busy eyes.)
* * *
What does one call a journal reduced by fire to a mineral? The quarry walls—tool-marked, wind-pitted—long ago contained our first alphabets and now cradle our final flames on their scree-ridden edges.
You excavate stones as columns, crowned with acanthus leaves, and I lose myself in your forest. Absent the whole, the part suffices. The gleam of my lover's laughter is the same color as the tongue of the asp; a blue flash at bright noon.
An image emerges from, disperses into, light. Above the ruined half-arch of the aqueduct, the water's silver shimmer becomes a skylady's noose. A gust of wind becomes stretched-leather wings, thinner than spiderweb, contain in fractal branching veins all the prisons we are afraid to escape.
Light shines through them, and disperses into light.
(What does one call the knight who wishes death upon a child held hostage by a prophesy? With what coin does the Seraph of Fireside buy the loyalty of the faith militant? Orazio whispers, "A title is the opposite of a dream," and renounces her title every night before closing her busy eyes.)
Written By Dianara
July 1, 2019, 10:15 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Gerald
You ever meet someone and just -know- they were a very naughty child growing up?
Written By Dianara
July 1, 2019, 10:13 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Tyrus
The quickest way to forget one's own troubles is to consider another's instead.
Written By Felicia
July 1, 2019, 6:48 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Disappointed that I missed out on Ida's hairpins honoring Death, though I confess that I snapped up a beautiful collection of gowns for my sisters at Whispering Words. It is lovely to see so many elements honoring the Mother about the city of late.
Written By Sina
July 1, 2019, 5:18 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Last night, the Vellichorian Academy hosted the representatives of Cardia to answer some of your questions. Previously, we hosted the Emissary from the Undying Empire. Now that we have had a chance to hear from both of these representatives in great detail, I would like to take some time to discuss this in more detail. I understand there have been many wondering why we would do such a thing, when the ideals of these foreign cultures are so different from our own. And much of it has to do with what I mentioned in my previous journal entry, regarding truth.
Prince Alecestazi does have a point, in that truth often seems based on one's perspective. We see a prime example of this in the views of our foreign visitors. We Arvani see things from one perspective. The Undying Empire may see it from another. And Cardia sees the situation from their own point of view. But somewhere within these three viewpoints, there is truth. We need not abandon our Faith to view it. Indeed, our Faith requires that we seek knowledge, even unto considering viewpoints that are different from our own. Vellichor's Psalms state clearly,
"A hungry mind is an open mind.
When the mind is closed and says 'This cannot be', it will never learn.
Yet when truth is held before the closed mind, it cannot allow truth to stand.
The closed mind will act against the truth to erase it from the world.
The closed mind will seek to make the world in its own image.
The open mind must be hungry; it must also accept what is no matter the form taken by truth.
Truth wears many cloaks."
While these visitors may not share our Faith, our beliefs, our ideals, our values... they each have a unique perspective, and this can give us valuable insight into the situation which lies before us.
What we can take away from this is that each perspective acknowledges at least the following truths:
1. Faith: While the Cardians do not share our faith, let us look more closely at the words that they say. They do not worship our gods, but neither do they deny the existence of the Pantheon. The Undying Empire continues to adhere to what they call the Grace of the Thirteen. Cardia would abolish our Faith, which is clearly not acceptable. Jadairal adheres to a practice that clearly falls outside the ideals of the First Choice. However, no side - Cardia's, Jadairal's, or our own - denies the existence of the Gods. Therefore, this must be truth.
2. The Day of Betrayal: Each side acknowledges that something terrible happened in Cardia, long ago, which caused a great rift within the very fabric of our combined societies. But what is it, exactly? What happened? It is this: The majority of the Metallic Order perished. Each side has their own version of the tale to tell. The Cardian emissary insists that it was the result of incursions into their lands, and a failed peace treaty which resulted in their obliteration of those we here in Arvum revere as heroes. Jadairal blames Cardia, and insists that the Metallic Order was betrayed. The Undying Empire weeps for their loss, while the Cardians appear to look upon the whole thing with disdain. And we, here in Arvum, revere the Metallic Order as beacons of hope, and seek to live up to their example. Their memory is enshrined within the Hall of Heroes here in Arvum, for their many honored sacrifices.
A terrible thing happened that day: A loss so profound that the land itself in that place has turned to desolate wasteland. No living thing can grow there. This event is the source of the conflict between both Cardia and the Undying Empire, and yes, our story is tied in with this event as well, in a very important way. Another thing to consider is that things may not always be as they seem on the surface. There are many layers involved here, many truths wrapped within vague and carefully-couched words, if you know where to look. And while each version of the story is different, all sides acknowledge that it happened. Therefore, this event must be truth.
3. Arvum: The Undying Empire and Cardia both have come to our shores, claiming they wish to aid us. But think upon the reason why. Ask yourself, 'Why is Arvum so important?' Lord Sulla claims that it is not. That we are merely a provincial backwater that the Cardians wish to claim before the Undying Empire. But if you read between the lines, listen to the things that are not said, you can understand, I think, that Arvum is vitally important. Otherwise, why would they have any interest at all? Jadairal recognizes Arvum's importance, but they do not speak specifically of why. We are not merely neutral ground. Quite the opposite. We are the glue that holds it all together. And this is the vital, fundamental truth.
The Compact has made its decision, and these attempts to gain understanding from both of our foreign guests have not in any way been in an attempt to change that decision, nor challenge your Faith, but to simply understand their world view. We must come to terms with these truths so that we might learn and stand on our own, and our faith in the Gods must not waver.
I hope that this has been an enlightening experience for everyone. I know that not everyone will agree with my decision to allow these foreign visitors to speak at the Academy. But, I am at a point in my life where I am ready to step outside the shadow of disapproval, in order to bring you knowledge. What you do with it, and what context you take it in, is your decision and responsibility. But truth... it can be held up to many different lenses, and still shine through. A thing to consider. In the coming weeks, I will make effort to bring other speakers to the Academy, and may speak on some matters myself. In the meantime, never stop learning and growing.
In faith,
Archscholar Sina
Prince Alecestazi does have a point, in that truth often seems based on one's perspective. We see a prime example of this in the views of our foreign visitors. We Arvani see things from one perspective. The Undying Empire may see it from another. And Cardia sees the situation from their own point of view. But somewhere within these three viewpoints, there is truth. We need not abandon our Faith to view it. Indeed, our Faith requires that we seek knowledge, even unto considering viewpoints that are different from our own. Vellichor's Psalms state clearly,
"A hungry mind is an open mind.
When the mind is closed and says 'This cannot be', it will never learn.
Yet when truth is held before the closed mind, it cannot allow truth to stand.
The closed mind will act against the truth to erase it from the world.
The closed mind will seek to make the world in its own image.
The open mind must be hungry; it must also accept what is no matter the form taken by truth.
Truth wears many cloaks."
While these visitors may not share our Faith, our beliefs, our ideals, our values... they each have a unique perspective, and this can give us valuable insight into the situation which lies before us.
What we can take away from this is that each perspective acknowledges at least the following truths:
1. Faith: While the Cardians do not share our faith, let us look more closely at the words that they say. They do not worship our gods, but neither do they deny the existence of the Pantheon. The Undying Empire continues to adhere to what they call the Grace of the Thirteen. Cardia would abolish our Faith, which is clearly not acceptable. Jadairal adheres to a practice that clearly falls outside the ideals of the First Choice. However, no side - Cardia's, Jadairal's, or our own - denies the existence of the Gods. Therefore, this must be truth.
2. The Day of Betrayal: Each side acknowledges that something terrible happened in Cardia, long ago, which caused a great rift within the very fabric of our combined societies. But what is it, exactly? What happened? It is this: The majority of the Metallic Order perished. Each side has their own version of the tale to tell. The Cardian emissary insists that it was the result of incursions into their lands, and a failed peace treaty which resulted in their obliteration of those we here in Arvum revere as heroes. Jadairal blames Cardia, and insists that the Metallic Order was betrayed. The Undying Empire weeps for their loss, while the Cardians appear to look upon the whole thing with disdain. And we, here in Arvum, revere the Metallic Order as beacons of hope, and seek to live up to their example. Their memory is enshrined within the Hall of Heroes here in Arvum, for their many honored sacrifices.
A terrible thing happened that day: A loss so profound that the land itself in that place has turned to desolate wasteland. No living thing can grow there. This event is the source of the conflict between both Cardia and the Undying Empire, and yes, our story is tied in with this event as well, in a very important way. Another thing to consider is that things may not always be as they seem on the surface. There are many layers involved here, many truths wrapped within vague and carefully-couched words, if you know where to look. And while each version of the story is different, all sides acknowledge that it happened. Therefore, this event must be truth.
3. Arvum: The Undying Empire and Cardia both have come to our shores, claiming they wish to aid us. But think upon the reason why. Ask yourself, 'Why is Arvum so important?' Lord Sulla claims that it is not. That we are merely a provincial backwater that the Cardians wish to claim before the Undying Empire. But if you read between the lines, listen to the things that are not said, you can understand, I think, that Arvum is vitally important. Otherwise, why would they have any interest at all? Jadairal recognizes Arvum's importance, but they do not speak specifically of why. We are not merely neutral ground. Quite the opposite. We are the glue that holds it all together. And this is the vital, fundamental truth.
The Compact has made its decision, and these attempts to gain understanding from both of our foreign guests have not in any way been in an attempt to change that decision, nor challenge your Faith, but to simply understand their world view. We must come to terms with these truths so that we might learn and stand on our own, and our faith in the Gods must not waver.
I hope that this has been an enlightening experience for everyone. I know that not everyone will agree with my decision to allow these foreign visitors to speak at the Academy. But, I am at a point in my life where I am ready to step outside the shadow of disapproval, in order to bring you knowledge. What you do with it, and what context you take it in, is your decision and responsibility. But truth... it can be held up to many different lenses, and still shine through. A thing to consider. In the coming weeks, I will make effort to bring other speakers to the Academy, and may speak on some matters myself. In the meantime, never stop learning and growing.
In faith,
Archscholar Sina
Written By Vincenzo
July 1, 2019, 2:17 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Apprenticeships work as the institution creates a foundation on which basics, intermediate and possibly advanced knowledge of the craft are learned at appropriate time in an artist's journey. Why would you want to chase after intermediate or advanced things on an unrelated skill when you haven't yet mastered your initial craft? Maybe they're chasing after rainbows, or see the grass is greener on the other side. I'd smack my apprentice if they tried to use some new carpentry idea on a gown, bill them for the wasted material and boot them soundly out the door. I'd knock them on the head if they were talking about masonry tactics while I'm designing an outfit and say very loudly "Focus on the art first and then you can learn about other things after you master it!".
I wonder about all these foreigners coming in and giving some type of life lesson propaganda, and worry why such people are allowed a place to distribute their foreign thoughts and ways; I haven't heard yet of someone from the Compact going to their capital cities and given the same leniency and opportunity.
If so, I'd like to see Grandmaster Preston go. I'll admit to wanting to tag along, honestly only to acquire materials. And while I'm being honest, I'll bring the beauty of Arvum to those dark foreign and strange places to illuminate their minds with the inspiration from Jayus.
I wonder about all these foreigners coming in and giving some type of life lesson propaganda, and worry why such people are allowed a place to distribute their foreign thoughts and ways; I haven't heard yet of someone from the Compact going to their capital cities and given the same leniency and opportunity.
If so, I'd like to see Grandmaster Preston go. I'll admit to wanting to tag along, honestly only to acquire materials. And while I'm being honest, I'll bring the beauty of Arvum to those dark foreign and strange places to illuminate their minds with the inspiration from Jayus.
Written By Thena
July 1, 2019, 1:33 p.m.(5/20/1011 AR)
Reading the notes from last night's meeting with the Cardian ambassadors, I'm a bit surprised that we woke up this morning.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.