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Written By Jeffeth

Nov. 17, 2018, 1:14 p.m.(1/5/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Daemon

When I returned to Arx, Sir Daemon and I became friends quickly.

Sir Daemon liked to clean things. He waged a constant war on the House of Solace making sure it was constantly as spotless as he could make it. For a couple months, I was a fervent supporter of Sir Daemon's cause. We wore brooms down quickly. I was eager to help him and be his ally in this effort. At the time I guess I thought it was fun. I was never a believer like he was, but I also had never met someone who believed so passionately in just... Scrubbing. The first few months I worked hard and we cleaned the House of Solace a dozen times a dozen. Any time we weren't attending to duties we were cleaning, a lot of our free time was spent doing it.

As the months went on, I guess the fun of it went out of it for me. Because I stopped. We had other things to attend to, all the time, things to look into and when we were finally off duty and able to have free time. Well, I went to have actual fun. Do something relaxing, make new friends, be with old friends. Be with people I cared about. I remember I would go by the House of Solace sometimes at night and see a single candle lit in a random spot. A few times I went in to get something I had left behind. He never noticed me, he was so locked into his task. After all those hours of his other duties, after his body ached and he sweat all he could sweat, when his mind could no longer produce thoughts, Sir Daemon scrubbed some more.

No one could clean like Sir Daemon.

When the filth and the dust creep in, it will be a visceral reminder that Sir Daemon is gone, his protection no longer with us.

I've never met someone more devoted. I imagine I never will.

After Stormwall, Sir Daemon was different. We fought in different areas. I rode in as part of the charge to liberate the defenders from the keep and then we set fire to the city. He was quiet, he fought well, but... He asked if we could go home. There was a celebration when we got home, Sir Daemon and I stood in the back. There were little pins handed out to everyone. It was a celebration that we were survivors we beat the Gyre. Daemon's heart was hardened by Stormwall, and he didn't take to the ceremony well. He gave me his pin and told me to give it to someone who deserved it and left. I dropped both his pin and mine on the floor before I left. I regret that moment, very much.

If anyone is reading this was at that ceremony, if you know what little badges I'm talking about. If you have one, I would be so grateful if you would reach out to me. He told me to gave it to someone who deserved it and I never did. I would very much like to rectify that.

He lost some of himself at that battle, he was never quite the same old Daemon. He was still one of the best men I'll ever have the pleasure of calling Brother. He was still the most devoted, the man with the strongest sense of duty. But a little piece broke off that never got put back on. I regret so much not talking to him more, trying to see if maybe we could get that piece patched up. I'll never get to now, and I will think about that often, for the rest of my life. He often spoke of his fathers lands, of his past. There was a history he wanted to visit, to act on there. If anyone has any information on anything he had looked into regarding his Barony, I would be very appreciative if you passed it on to me.

I can't restore his barony and I can't bring him back. But I can see to it that his story gets finished. And I can see to it that the House stays clean.

I love my Brother, and this pain will be one that lasts quite sometime. I ask that you all bow your head in remembrance with me, to the Knight of Devotion. Sir Daemon Dracone.

Written By Vercyn

Nov. 17, 2018, 1:13 p.m.(1/5/1010 AR)

I think it may be time to start finding spouses for my family. They are getting too old to be running about without providing a future generation.

I may also just want to see Arik deal with small children. I think of the lot of them, this would bring the most amusement to us all.

Written By Vercyn

Nov. 17, 2018, 12:33 p.m.(1/5/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Bliss

You think highly of yourself if you consider this a grudge. I do not sit in my room at night wondering whatever to do about that blasted Whisper next. What I do in my rooms is for me and the whiskey alone to know.

As for controlling your emotions: asking that you stop trying to dictate how other people should mourn is not controlling your emotions. There is no emotion in that. There is no emotion in speech alone. You can still seethe and hate whoever died that other people love. You can still be angry that other people speak highly of the person. Just stop trying to silence other voices. That is all.

I think the true crux of the issue is the lack of understanding between a personal hero and a hero of legend and lore. If Bliss Whisper adamantly only acknowledges heroes of the Compact -- of legend and lore -- then so be it; that is her prerogative. The rest of us can go on having our personal heroes.

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?

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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