Written By Vayne
April 15, 2018, 11:21 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
I would've enjoyed that trip to the Oathlands.
But I suppose I understand why I might have been excluded from it.
But I suppose I understand why I might have been excluded from it.
Written By Fianna
April 15, 2018, 11:21 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
I can't believe I got as far as I did in that archery shoot!
Lady Zoey Bisland won, with Prince Jericho Valardin coming in second. That I was even able to match them as long as I did was amazing! They're both excellent archers!
Lady Zoey Bisland won, with Prince Jericho Valardin coming in second. That I was even able to match them as long as I did was amazing! They're both excellent archers!
Written By Lisebet
April 15, 2018, 11:19 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
I believe I may have had just a titch too much to drink. Don't tell Alban!
Written By Caspian
April 15, 2018, 11:19 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
After being in Arx for many months it seems like The Champion Guild is really coming alive. We have many new members and quite a few skilled duelists and promising recruits. I hope they all start seeing some duels soon!
Written By Rinel
April 15, 2018, 11:09 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
I confess that I find myself most alarmed at the idea that any group within the Oathlands would be fearful of such esteemed envoys of the Faith, much less alarmed by them. It is good to know that the Sanctum of Seraph shares these concerns.
Incidentally, the Legate's journals are an inspiration to read. Would that I could recall my journeys with such exacting precision. I shall have to inquire as to his methods of note-taking.
Incidentally, the Legate's journals are an inspiration to read. Would that I could recall my journeys with such exacting precision. I shall have to inquire as to his methods of note-taking.
Written By Orazio
April 15, 2018, 10:50 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
In case it comes to anyone's mind in in reading the entries herein to ask: Of /course/ my favorite Canticle is that of the Sentinel. I have heard the arguments that it is less musically complex than some of the others (Jayus, in particular) and although I understand the sentiment, I have to say that I find the strong, simple melody to be quite compelling. More, it is more easily sung solo than some of the others, which makes it lovely to sing while in the bath.
Not that I do that. Much.
Entry 7:
I must confess that leaving the Greenmarch is a bit of a relief. Our new citizens are lovely, thoughtful people, and I cannot fault their hospitality of them in any way, but several days of doing little but soothing a terror that they did not need to bear can be exhausting. It opened many opportunities for conversation, and for helping them understand the purpose of the Faith in the lives of the Compact, but I cannot help but feel sorrow for how badly they have been mislead, and the distress that it caused them. At any rate, we have managed to distribute our gifts, and after a while, some were able to open up enough to give guidance to the Knights of Solace on the best ways for pilgrims and supplies to reach those with the greatest need within the lands. I should like to see a small temple to the Pantheon built, but most important, I think, is to ensure that Mercies and Scholars can make reasonably safe circuits to provide healing and education.
Entry 8:
Allow me to confess something: when we first planned this trip, it was the Rivenshari that I had the most concern about, for they were the House I knew the least about. Unfair of me, and a burden from my own ignorance, I am sure. But our welcome in those lands has been far kinder than in Greenmarch - the people here seem happier, more confident, and have great trust in their leaders. Good signs, all. And hard won - I spent the day listening to the people of Rivenshari, those who would speak with me, regarding the trials which led to joining the Compact. I will not disrespect those confidences by sharing details here, but they were humbling and affecting. I am glad that we were able to bring them into the Compact, and it is my duty to aid in their protection and solace. Speaking of Solace, I am delighted to say that Grandmaster Thena and several of the leaders have come to an accord regarding a new chapterhouse of the Knights here.
Entry 9:
Representatives from some of the Oathlands houses have arrived, and Sir Preston has taken the lead on speaking with them. He has more of an Orthodox perspective than I, and I don't mind recording how pleased I am to see him excel in this diplomatic role. Perhaps I should encourage Blessed Cassandra to give him more responsibility in this area. Otherwise, our trip within Rivenshari lands has been pleasant, enlightening, and - I hope - created a foundation from which we can work together to help these lands prosper and thrive as members of the Compact. Sadly, there are not as many within these lands personally interested in myself, so my opportunities to sing my favorite Canticles have declined. Tomorrow, we will set back out for Arx. We've left several of the wagons along with their contents as gifts for the Greenmarchers and Rivenshari, so the caravan itself is much smaller. Will this translate into a faster trip home? Only the gods may say.
In case it comes to anyone's mind in in reading the entries herein to ask: Of /course/ my favorite Canticle is that of the Sentinel. I have heard the arguments that it is less musically complex than some of the others (Jayus, in particular) and although I understand the sentiment, I have to say that I find the strong, simple melody to be quite compelling. More, it is more easily sung solo than some of the others, which makes it lovely to sing while in the bath.
Not that I do that. Much.
Entry 7:
I must confess that leaving the Greenmarch is a bit of a relief. Our new citizens are lovely, thoughtful people, and I cannot fault their hospitality of them in any way, but several days of doing little but soothing a terror that they did not need to bear can be exhausting. It opened many opportunities for conversation, and for helping them understand the purpose of the Faith in the lives of the Compact, but I cannot help but feel sorrow for how badly they have been mislead, and the distress that it caused them. At any rate, we have managed to distribute our gifts, and after a while, some were able to open up enough to give guidance to the Knights of Solace on the best ways for pilgrims and supplies to reach those with the greatest need within the lands. I should like to see a small temple to the Pantheon built, but most important, I think, is to ensure that Mercies and Scholars can make reasonably safe circuits to provide healing and education.
Entry 8:
Allow me to confess something: when we first planned this trip, it was the Rivenshari that I had the most concern about, for they were the House I knew the least about. Unfair of me, and a burden from my own ignorance, I am sure. But our welcome in those lands has been far kinder than in Greenmarch - the people here seem happier, more confident, and have great trust in their leaders. Good signs, all. And hard won - I spent the day listening to the people of Rivenshari, those who would speak with me, regarding the trials which led to joining the Compact. I will not disrespect those confidences by sharing details here, but they were humbling and affecting. I am glad that we were able to bring them into the Compact, and it is my duty to aid in their protection and solace. Speaking of Solace, I am delighted to say that Grandmaster Thena and several of the leaders have come to an accord regarding a new chapterhouse of the Knights here.
Entry 9:
Representatives from some of the Oathlands houses have arrived, and Sir Preston has taken the lead on speaking with them. He has more of an Orthodox perspective than I, and I don't mind recording how pleased I am to see him excel in this diplomatic role. Perhaps I should encourage Blessed Cassandra to give him more responsibility in this area. Otherwise, our trip within Rivenshari lands has been pleasant, enlightening, and - I hope - created a foundation from which we can work together to help these lands prosper and thrive as members of the Compact. Sadly, there are not as many within these lands personally interested in myself, so my opportunities to sing my favorite Canticles have declined. Tomorrow, we will set back out for Arx. We've left several of the wagons along with their contents as gifts for the Greenmarchers and Rivenshari, so the caravan itself is much smaller. Will this translate into a faster trip home? Only the gods may say.
Written By Orazio
April 15, 2018, 10:25 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
Further notes and observations on the mission trip to the Oathlands follow. I've chosen not to publish a fair amount of the day to day travel - let it just be said that it was not always comfortable, but it /was/ always beautiful and remarkable. There were a few threatening moments along the way, as well, but nothing serious, and the presence of the Faith Militant kept the caravan quite safe.
Entry 4:
We have reached the Oathlands, crossing the border into the heartlands of the Faith at a small city. To my surprise, Prince Edain was there, along with a contingent of his armed knights. He intends to travel with us, until our course curves to take us away from Sanctum, which I gather is his final destination. Our knights are honored by the escort shown by the High Lord of Valardin to a simple mission trip, and I gather there will time for them to exchange many war stories and impromptu sparring matches over the days that we share the road.
Entry 5: We have made it to the crossroads, and the High Lord is continuing to Sanctum. His squire remains with us - perhaps a missionary's zeal burns in the young would-be knight's heart? At any rate, I imagine that the squire and the Princess Terese shall prove invaluable guides if our directions fail us. The caravan travels on. It was hotter when we traveled over the plains, but trees are looming once again, and beneath their shade, even a Lycene like myself can feel some relief from the sun. I shall be burned dark when I return. I am told that we have a major river crossing to look forward to before we reach the Greenmarch lands. May Mangata bless our crossing. And if she should particularly remember that robes are terrible to swim in, I will be personally grateful.
Entry 6: We have been in Greenmarch for two days, now. I'll confess that our reception has been a bit...peculiar. Loud protestations of faith abound (which would be more convincing if they did not occasionally get the name of the gods wrong), but so does fear. I have asked the Whispers to take the lead, as the fear seems primarily directed at the Faith, and with gentle diplomacy and cleverness, the Radiant Whisper soothes troubled hearts and reassures those who seem to be convinced that we have come to harm them or invade their lands. My thoughts on the sources of such rumors should likely wait for more protected journals. But in the meantime, I have directed us to go gently, and focus on simply undoing the harm done before our arrival. In the meantime, many of the locals show a flattering desire to learn more about me, and I cannot go anywhere without a few tagging along, asking what my plans are. Admittedly, after a detailed breakdown of my life story, a chance to tour my wagon, several thorough explanations of some basic doctrine, and renditions of some of my favorite Canticles, their curiosity seems sated. At least, I assume that glazed look in their eyes when they finally departed was satisfaction. Yes, surely it was. I will prepare more Canticles for tomorrow and the new folk that I am certain that we will meet; it's very exciting to have such interested minds to fill.
Further notes and observations on the mission trip to the Oathlands follow. I've chosen not to publish a fair amount of the day to day travel - let it just be said that it was not always comfortable, but it /was/ always beautiful and remarkable. There were a few threatening moments along the way, as well, but nothing serious, and the presence of the Faith Militant kept the caravan quite safe.
Entry 4:
We have reached the Oathlands, crossing the border into the heartlands of the Faith at a small city. To my surprise, Prince Edain was there, along with a contingent of his armed knights. He intends to travel with us, until our course curves to take us away from Sanctum, which I gather is his final destination. Our knights are honored by the escort shown by the High Lord of Valardin to a simple mission trip, and I gather there will time for them to exchange many war stories and impromptu sparring matches over the days that we share the road.
Entry 5: We have made it to the crossroads, and the High Lord is continuing to Sanctum. His squire remains with us - perhaps a missionary's zeal burns in the young would-be knight's heart? At any rate, I imagine that the squire and the Princess Terese shall prove invaluable guides if our directions fail us. The caravan travels on. It was hotter when we traveled over the plains, but trees are looming once again, and beneath their shade, even a Lycene like myself can feel some relief from the sun. I shall be burned dark when I return. I am told that we have a major river crossing to look forward to before we reach the Greenmarch lands. May Mangata bless our crossing. And if she should particularly remember that robes are terrible to swim in, I will be personally grateful.
Entry 6: We have been in Greenmarch for two days, now. I'll confess that our reception has been a bit...peculiar. Loud protestations of faith abound (which would be more convincing if they did not occasionally get the name of the gods wrong), but so does fear. I have asked the Whispers to take the lead, as the fear seems primarily directed at the Faith, and with gentle diplomacy and cleverness, the Radiant Whisper soothes troubled hearts and reassures those who seem to be convinced that we have come to harm them or invade their lands. My thoughts on the sources of such rumors should likely wait for more protected journals. But in the meantime, I have directed us to go gently, and focus on simply undoing the harm done before our arrival. In the meantime, many of the locals show a flattering desire to learn more about me, and I cannot go anywhere without a few tagging along, asking what my plans are. Admittedly, after a detailed breakdown of my life story, a chance to tour my wagon, several thorough explanations of some basic doctrine, and renditions of some of my favorite Canticles, their curiosity seems sated. At least, I assume that glazed look in their eyes when they finally departed was satisfaction. Yes, surely it was. I will prepare more Canticles for tomorrow and the new folk that I am certain that we will meet; it's very exciting to have such interested minds to fill.
Written By Belladonna
April 15, 2018, 10:08 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Sebastian
We were honored to have you in the position and I dearly hope to see you find another role within the House that you can truly shine in. Whether it be family, Minister, or a return to Voice after a sabbatical, you are a welcomed and honored member of this family.
Written By Orazio
April 15, 2018, 10:01 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
During the recent mission trip to the Oathlands, I did my best to continue to honor Vellichor by recording my thoughts and experiences, in hopes that it would serve as a record of our journey. I am sure that others on the mission trip did the same, and would encourage them to submit their experiences to the white journals as well. Or at least highlights - I will not bore people with the more egregiously mundane notes that I scribbled along the way.
Entry 1:
The caravan is large - it's hard to understate how much material and how many people are involved with a trip like this. Although I am certain that certain names will come up, like the Radiant Whisper Selene, or Sir Preston, or Princess Terese, or the Archlectors...it is important not to forget that we are several hundred strong. Cartiers, quartermasters, knights, disciples, servants and attendants. And then, of course, the supplies - food and feed for the animals, changes of clothing, materials for various kinds of weather, extra wagon parts for the inevitable breakages, not to mention the gifts and supplies that we bring for the Prodigal Houses themselves. It is hot, and the noise is tremendous. A cacophony of shouts and cries. A caravan of this size does not set off all at once. The caravan master has a plan, I am certain, but it can be hard to see in the chaos. There are starts and stops, and the drivers shout at one another for getting in the way. The beasts low and fidget.
And yet, despite it all, there is a bright anticipation on the air that I cannot help but notice. Part of it is the Whispers, of course. Wherever they go, they trail new fans in their wake. People are drawn to the Knights of Solace and the Templars, as well, and I am pleased to see that the knights of the Faith return that interest with kindness and charity. And eventually, the whole caravan moves, a giant, snaky beast on the road leading away from Arx. There are no cheers - I'm reasonably certain the merchants and gate guards are just as happy to see the monstrosity moved out of their way - but nonetheless, the mood is bright, even boisterous.
Entry 2
We have picked up hangers on before we even reached the Oathlands. Curious outriders from a Crownlands hold of some sort or another (forgive me that I have forgotten the name, but should someone who reads this in the future wish to remind me, I would be grateful). We exchanged greetings, and an explanation of our task, and they traveled with us, guiding us through the forest to a small village near a deep lake. The water of the lake was a peculiar green - algae, I am told, although I am also told that the water remains potable once filtered through crushed charcoal. This village exists an unusual distance from the safe roads and cities, and is filled with hearty foresters and woodsfolk who make their living hunting and harvesting. It's a subsistence level existence, for the most part, with what little they have left over sent for taxes. And yet they welcomed the Faithful with hospitality and freshly baked cakes of unleavened nut flour, sweetened with honey from hives they tend. In return, we shared gifts from our own stores, fresh beer and wine, and performed blessings. The Mercies along with us were able to tend to some outstanding illnesses during our stop, and I had a conversation with three of the village elders which vastly expanded my knowledge of local herbs and root vegetables. We had no desire to strain their limited resources, so we chose to move on rather than spend the night.
Entry 3
The trees are beginning to thin. Last night, we camped and could see the stars peeking down through the canopy. So many stars, in such great and complex profusion. I can't say that the camp was ever silent - there are far too many of us for that, and even in the wee, small hours, you could hear the patrolling guards exchanging signs and greetings. But it was an amiable noise. It has been a long, long time since I have slept in a wagon, even one so well-appointed as this one, which is why I am up writing, and giving my aching back a bit of a rest. With the gods' grace, we have made about as good time as a caravan of this size /can/. I look forward to reaching the Oathlands.
During the recent mission trip to the Oathlands, I did my best to continue to honor Vellichor by recording my thoughts and experiences, in hopes that it would serve as a record of our journey. I am sure that others on the mission trip did the same, and would encourage them to submit their experiences to the white journals as well. Or at least highlights - I will not bore people with the more egregiously mundane notes that I scribbled along the way.
Entry 1:
The caravan is large - it's hard to understate how much material and how many people are involved with a trip like this. Although I am certain that certain names will come up, like the Radiant Whisper Selene, or Sir Preston, or Princess Terese, or the Archlectors...it is important not to forget that we are several hundred strong. Cartiers, quartermasters, knights, disciples, servants and attendants. And then, of course, the supplies - food and feed for the animals, changes of clothing, materials for various kinds of weather, extra wagon parts for the inevitable breakages, not to mention the gifts and supplies that we bring for the Prodigal Houses themselves. It is hot, and the noise is tremendous. A cacophony of shouts and cries. A caravan of this size does not set off all at once. The caravan master has a plan, I am certain, but it can be hard to see in the chaos. There are starts and stops, and the drivers shout at one another for getting in the way. The beasts low and fidget.
And yet, despite it all, there is a bright anticipation on the air that I cannot help but notice. Part of it is the Whispers, of course. Wherever they go, they trail new fans in their wake. People are drawn to the Knights of Solace and the Templars, as well, and I am pleased to see that the knights of the Faith return that interest with kindness and charity. And eventually, the whole caravan moves, a giant, snaky beast on the road leading away from Arx. There are no cheers - I'm reasonably certain the merchants and gate guards are just as happy to see the monstrosity moved out of their way - but nonetheless, the mood is bright, even boisterous.
Entry 2
We have picked up hangers on before we even reached the Oathlands. Curious outriders from a Crownlands hold of some sort or another (forgive me that I have forgotten the name, but should someone who reads this in the future wish to remind me, I would be grateful). We exchanged greetings, and an explanation of our task, and they traveled with us, guiding us through the forest to a small village near a deep lake. The water of the lake was a peculiar green - algae, I am told, although I am also told that the water remains potable once filtered through crushed charcoal. This village exists an unusual distance from the safe roads and cities, and is filled with hearty foresters and woodsfolk who make their living hunting and harvesting. It's a subsistence level existence, for the most part, with what little they have left over sent for taxes. And yet they welcomed the Faithful with hospitality and freshly baked cakes of unleavened nut flour, sweetened with honey from hives they tend. In return, we shared gifts from our own stores, fresh beer and wine, and performed blessings. The Mercies along with us were able to tend to some outstanding illnesses during our stop, and I had a conversation with three of the village elders which vastly expanded my knowledge of local herbs and root vegetables. We had no desire to strain their limited resources, so we chose to move on rather than spend the night.
Entry 3
The trees are beginning to thin. Last night, we camped and could see the stars peeking down through the canopy. So many stars, in such great and complex profusion. I can't say that the camp was ever silent - there are far too many of us for that, and even in the wee, small hours, you could hear the patrolling guards exchanging signs and greetings. But it was an amiable noise. It has been a long, long time since I have slept in a wagon, even one so well-appointed as this one, which is why I am up writing, and giving my aching back a bit of a rest. With the gods' grace, we have made about as good time as a caravan of this size /can/. I look forward to reaching the Oathlands.
Written By Aurus
April 15, 2018, 9:53 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Another empty box of chocolates...hmm.
There's some sort of sweet-eating-spirit living here, I just know it!
There's some sort of sweet-eating-spirit living here, I just know it!
Written By Aurus
April 15, 2018, 9:49 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Such a variegated, wondrous place.
No wonder things stir brilliant in my dreams.
No wonder things stir brilliant in my dreams.
Written By Elgana
April 15, 2018, 9:39 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Prince Barric generously gave me the hour of time he won with my sister so that I might do her hair in preparation for the day she will be spending in a lovely gown thanks to the bet she lost to me.
I might also need an extra set of hands, or two. I don't know how long it has been since a comb has been attempted on those lovely red tresses, but she's broken her fair share of them over the years. I do so adore a good challenge.
I might also need an extra set of hands, or two. I don't know how long it has been since a comb has been attempted on those lovely red tresses, but she's broken her fair share of them over the years. I do so adore a good challenge.
Written By Alexis
April 15, 2018, 9:29 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
I heard that the Legate of Concepts and several other high-ranking people went on a pilgrimage of sorts through the Oathlands. It makes me me proud - we have ever been the heartlands of the faith, and from what I hear, the trip was successful and brought people together, too.
Curious about the Seraph of Sanctum's proclamations, though.
Curious about the Seraph of Sanctum's proclamations, though.
Written By Alexis
April 15, 2018, 9:27 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
There's something comforting about the heat of a forge, be it blazing at your back, or glaring at your front. The rhythm of the metal as you coax out what the steel before you wishes to be. That's when I truly find peace. That's where I lose myself.
And I'll continue hammering steel for as long as I'm able.
And I'll continue hammering steel for as long as I'm able.
Written By Alexis
April 15, 2018, 9:25 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
The Marquessa has tasked myself and Lady Desiree with finding the means and the people to refill the ranks of the Wyrmguard armies after the battle at Setarco. I'm given to understand the sheer number of people and the money involved in outfitting them is quite... Large.
Another part of moving beyond just being a warrior, I guess.
Another part of moving beyond just being a warrior, I guess.
Written By Sunniva
April 15, 2018, 9:21 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
I have most recently been pleasantly surprised by a recent dinner we had with the Marquis and Marquessa Mazetti. It pleases me that the disagreements of our ancestors can be set aside in pursuit of bettering relations and finding common ground. We are after all living breathing beings with the same needs. I look forward to when we dine again.
Written By Titania
April 15, 2018, 9:15 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Things are starting to get tuff, its starting to get hard to move about I no longer walk, I waddle. I am not so tired anymore but its more a restlessness now I want to be out moving and doing things but even that I find hard. It is both tiring and exciting!
Written By Peri
April 15, 2018, 9:11 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Rymarr
I am indebted to the support that my liege has shown my House and the faith both the Marquessa and Marquis have shown in me while my father has been taking care of matters in Pearlspire. The Marquis brokered to get allow us temporary use of the Deepwood fleet to patrol our waters, and I think with their investment, we will have a chance to be even more useful as a naval presence than before if I continue pouring funds into the effort. I will not disappoint.
Written By Peri
April 15, 2018, 9:03 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Emily
Too bad I'm so stubborn. Don't worry, I will let you take me to all the scary places in the woods to get my heart racing too.
Written By Signe
April 15, 2018, 8:44 p.m.(7/22/1008 AR)
Tempest has reached the stage of his growth that everything must be tasted and chewed on. Thus far I have lost another pair of slippers (who cares?), a leather pouch, my winter cloak, some beatiful fur floor rugs in the main hall of manor which I will need to replace and a pair of leather trousers that do not belong to me.
To all those who reside in the Nightgold manor please remember to lock your doors! Tempest has learned how to push them open to take what he wants. There.
Now Tempest cannot be blamed for forgetful minds.
To all those who reside in the Nightgold manor please remember to lock your doors! Tempest has learned how to push them open to take what he wants. There.
Now Tempest cannot be blamed for forgetful minds.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.