Written By Mayir
March 21, 2018, 9:51 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Wash
Let me really clear:
Lord Washburn Kennex is just making himself look good. He's no hero. He's no jaunty sailor. (And I know my jaunty sailors.)
He thought he knew more than all of the leaders of the Fleet. They told him not to go after the shark. And when he dropped his anchor down its gullet, he triggered a blast of darkwater that provided the cover and confusion that allowed the enemy ships to escape and spit acid at us rather than let us do away with them. And the shark tooth that shot out killed Estaban Saik, the real hero admiral of Southport.
We're lucky it wasn't worse because of Lord Wash. But it certainly wasn't better because of him.
Lord Washburn Kennex is just making himself look good. He's no hero. He's no jaunty sailor. (And I know my jaunty sailors.)
He thought he knew more than all of the leaders of the Fleet. They told him not to go after the shark. And when he dropped his anchor down its gullet, he triggered a blast of darkwater that provided the cover and confusion that allowed the enemy ships to escape and spit acid at us rather than let us do away with them. And the shark tooth that shot out killed Estaban Saik, the real hero admiral of Southport.
We're lucky it wasn't worse because of Lord Wash. But it certainly wasn't better because of him.
Written By Ann
March 21, 2018, 9:48 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Terese
I suggest you start at the Shrine of Vellichor to pray for a little illumination on the actual beliefs of the Shamans as your woeful ignorance causes you so much grief and public embarrassment, Your Highness.
Maybe you should seek out Lady Khanne Halfshav, or Princess Drea Redrain to educate you on these matters directly afterwards. Or, maybe you could refer to a certain white journal written recently by Drea. You may find it interesting, considering your liege has graciously offered to take in Shamanic refugees from Stormwall and extend them guest rights in your lands.
Maybe you should seek out Lady Khanne Halfshav, or Princess Drea Redrain to educate you on these matters directly afterwards. Or, maybe you could refer to a certain white journal written recently by Drea. You may find it interesting, considering your liege has graciously offered to take in Shamanic refugees from Stormwall and extend them guest rights in your lands.
Written By Cadenza
March 21, 2018, 9:33 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
You are NOT poison. You are one of the strongest women I know.
I look up to you. You inspire me. Never say such at thing. I can't imagine what it's like to lose a sibling...but there are people that love you. You are the Archduchess of the Lyceum and so honored to be your cousin.
I look up to you. You inspire me. Never say such at thing. I can't imagine what it's like to lose a sibling...but there are people that love you. You are the Archduchess of the Lyceum and so honored to be your cousin.
Written By Shard
March 21, 2018, 9:03 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Terese
We aren't done fighting, but by all means, don't let that stop you from sneering at the people you've just been dying alongside. It's actually very popular, that's why it happens so often, and why your organization has so much power. But don't worry, you don't need to find new targets just yet. There's more coming.
Written By Isolde
March 21, 2018, 9:02 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
You are not poison. You never were poison.
I am honored to call you my sister-in-law. My Archduchess.
You do House Velenosa proud. You do all of the Lycuem proud.
I am honored to call you my sister-in-law. My Archduchess.
You do House Velenosa proud. You do all of the Lycuem proud.
Written By Valdemar
March 21, 2018, 8:57 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Once more, I found myself fighting alongside many people I did not know very well, some of whom were taken from us before I could come to know them. Baron Esteban Saik and Princess Serafine Velenosa come to mind, and though I never met either of them before the battle for Setarco, I will nonetheless remember their names and their sacrifices.
To those who survived the battle, I am honored to have fought alongside you against this enemy. It was your homeland that we were defending, but the Pretender King and his forces have plagued my people for centuries. Whatever may come in the future, I take a great deal of satisfaction in being part of the effort that finally stopped him, a thought I am sure many Mourning Islanders share.
Lord Theron Mazetti, there is no need to thank me. Our cause was just, and I would gladly fight at your side again should the need arise. And thankfully, there will be time for words, and drinks, in the future.
To those who survived the battle, I am honored to have fought alongside you against this enemy. It was your homeland that we were defending, but the Pretender King and his forces have plagued my people for centuries. Whatever may come in the future, I take a great deal of satisfaction in being part of the effort that finally stopped him, a thought I am sure many Mourning Islanders share.
Lord Theron Mazetti, there is no need to thank me. Our cause was just, and I would gladly fight at your side again should the need arise. And thankfully, there will be time for words, and drinks, in the future.
Written By Thesarin
March 21, 2018, 8:49 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Terese
I did not hear her Highness complain when the heathens at Redrain called down lightning to strike down the ships of the enemy.
And of the troops I lead to relieve her when she took a hurt in battle, I can't say for sure they all prayed to the new gods over the old.
I'd find out, but most are past asking.
And of the troops I lead to relieve her when she took a hurt in battle, I can't say for sure they all prayed to the new gods over the old.
I'd find out, but most are past asking.
Written By Terese
March 21, 2018, 8:22 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
It worries me seeing the Templar cavalry reduced to a third of its capability. The fiends we fought were horrific to think about, what type of man desires to eat the flesh of a living or dead person? These heretics deserved their fate of death and while they were dishonor incarnate, the templars I rode and commanded showed exemplary displays of honor. The majority of those templars gave their lives for people that don't even believe in the gods, that's how honorable, brave and amazing each of those knights were. To risk everything and defend those lost sheep.
I worry though for the church with the loss of so many devout and the growing influence of heresy that is allowed. I know that it isn't popular to say, but anyone who doesn't pray to the gods is someone who is simply just wrong and needs to be shown the error of their ways. I pray throughout all the prayer stations of the day that the devout faithful of the church will remain strong during this challenging time and it brings us all closer together. I pray and train.
I worry though for the church with the loss of so many devout and the growing influence of heresy that is allowed. I know that it isn't popular to say, but anyone who doesn't pray to the gods is someone who is simply just wrong and needs to be shown the error of their ways. I pray throughout all the prayer stations of the day that the devout faithful of the church will remain strong during this challenging time and it brings us all closer together. I pray and train.
Written By Esoka
March 21, 2018, 8:21 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
I have written a full account of the Battle of Stormwall in my black reflections, but the main point I wish to leave for history and Vellichor is this.
Eirlys Greenmarch is a hero and the only reason the demon who set upon me and so many others was slain. Her sacrifice saved my life and, to my view, the lives of every other warrior who faced that thing. Whatever our skills or whatever was within us, it was her death that saved us. There has been much talk of that fight, but this is the part I shall not forget and no one else should forget it, either.
Eirlys Greenmarch is a hero and the only reason the demon who set upon me and so many others was slain. Her sacrifice saved my life and, to my view, the lives of every other warrior who faced that thing. Whatever our skills or whatever was within us, it was her death that saved us. There has been much talk of that fight, but this is the part I shall not forget and no one else should forget it, either.
Written By Cristoph
March 21, 2018, 7:27 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
We found out late that the threat we thought we'd be facing was one that would be turning its full attention onto Setarco. Quickly and with as much ingenuity as we could muster, we moved the people we had there. It was then that I faced the forces of the Abyss, leading the charge of the Valardin cavalry with trusted allies by my side.
We crashed into monsters that I never imagined I would see with my own eyes. The bloodrush has muddied my memories, I'm afraid. I saw dogs that stood as tall as men and with horrific teeth and snarling faces. I remember the impact of my sword, I remember the gnashing of their teeth. And finally I remember with perfect clarity the moment that one of them managed to unhorse me, sending me through the air and onto the ground. The bite of metal into my skin and the pain as I was hit by hooves and large clawed feet. If it weren't for the quick work of the rest of the cavalry and the precision of the archers, I would have met my end there on the ground. A crumpled heap, chewed and trampled.
Instead, I was able to muster enough strength to pull myself to my feet. Through the haze of pain, I saw the Sword of Artshall charging at me on his horse with his hand extended.
Let it be known here in the whites, that Sir Norwood Clement is the finest knight in the entirety of the Oathlands and perhaps in the whole of the Compact. He is exactly what I hope my son learns to be. True and brave and incredibly skilled with both the sword and horse.
It's with regret that I must say that I unhorsed him and we both fell onto the ground. I don't know what became of his mount, hopefully it had enough sense to run away. I haven't thought to ask him. So instead of riding off with great speed to the mercies and healers, we walked a painful path back through the battlefield. But we were again, covered and protected by numerous allies. It was a feat we wouldn't have managed alone, I wish that I could remember all of their names. Thank you.
I was ushered from the field by Lady Ianna Greenmarch and tended to afterwards by Lady Victoria Kennex. There is absolutely no way I would have survived my injuries without them. It's with their intelligence and skill that I am at home convalescing and writing missives, sending copies of my whites to the archives, rather than being planted in a hole somewhere.
So thank you again. To each and every person that is responsible for my continued existence in this life. You are all some of the most brilliant heroes that I've had the chance to stand with and you will always have a seat at my table.
We crashed into monsters that I never imagined I would see with my own eyes. The bloodrush has muddied my memories, I'm afraid. I saw dogs that stood as tall as men and with horrific teeth and snarling faces. I remember the impact of my sword, I remember the gnashing of their teeth. And finally I remember with perfect clarity the moment that one of them managed to unhorse me, sending me through the air and onto the ground. The bite of metal into my skin and the pain as I was hit by hooves and large clawed feet. If it weren't for the quick work of the rest of the cavalry and the precision of the archers, I would have met my end there on the ground. A crumpled heap, chewed and trampled.
Instead, I was able to muster enough strength to pull myself to my feet. Through the haze of pain, I saw the Sword of Artshall charging at me on his horse with his hand extended.
Let it be known here in the whites, that Sir Norwood Clement is the finest knight in the entirety of the Oathlands and perhaps in the whole of the Compact. He is exactly what I hope my son learns to be. True and brave and incredibly skilled with both the sword and horse.
It's with regret that I must say that I unhorsed him and we both fell onto the ground. I don't know what became of his mount, hopefully it had enough sense to run away. I haven't thought to ask him. So instead of riding off with great speed to the mercies and healers, we walked a painful path back through the battlefield. But we were again, covered and protected by numerous allies. It was a feat we wouldn't have managed alone, I wish that I could remember all of their names. Thank you.
I was ushered from the field by Lady Ianna Greenmarch and tended to afterwards by Lady Victoria Kennex. There is absolutely no way I would have survived my injuries without them. It's with their intelligence and skill that I am at home convalescing and writing missives, sending copies of my whites to the archives, rather than being planted in a hole somewhere.
So thank you again. To each and every person that is responsible for my continued existence in this life. You are all some of the most brilliant heroes that I've had the chance to stand with and you will always have a seat at my table.
Written By Percephon
March 21, 2018, 6:44 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Headed north -- to go further North. Way North. FAR North. The plan is to lose a name in the process. Don't wish me luck. I might use it all up.
Written By Brigida
March 21, 2018, 6:07 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Cara
Forgive me. My arithmetic skills are not what they once were.
Only the latter if you please. Unless of course, you find that their opinions prove generally useful. In my experience that is so rarely ever the case. ...current events excluded, I'm sure.
Only the latter if you please. Unless of course, you find that their opinions prove generally useful. In my experience that is so rarely ever the case. ...current events excluded, I'm sure.
Written By Bethany
March 21, 2018, 6:04 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
[ From the maudlin desk of B. Mercier: ]
It's such a beautiful day outside.
I bought a lovely bottle of wine from Granato, a sweet and sparkling white. Then, a bottle of Lenosian red. And fruit. And bread. I intend on marvelously drunk after I leave the Archives. So, you'll need to forgive the fumes that flitter down from the staircase into the main room of the teashop. I thought about closing up the shop in order to mourn the losses. But, after losing so much -- you realize (at least, in my experience) that the best way to honor the loss of acquaintances and friends is to pause each and every day to honor them before you continue the business of living. Which, really, they would want for us to do. (I think.) So, this is that pause.
To Prince Cicero Velenosa (Lord Malvici) : For the haikus. For being gracious enough to allow a commoner to win that battle of words. For the beauty of a blush. For that gown of rather scandalous Lycene make. (I'll likely give it away - because I'll never favor another color other than black at this point. It looks very dramatic.) For allowing me to be a spoke in your Consortium.
To Princess Serafine Velenosa: For saving my life. For the gift of friendship that you and Mistress Broadbent gave to me and Jeremiah. For the excellent adventure. For allowing me to call you Princess-Knight-Princess without correcting me. For saving my life. (It's important to mention that twice.) For the letter - which, I am sorry that you will never be able to read the response to. It would have been a simple: yes! Yes, to adventure.
You'll be missed. Everyone will be missed.
I think I'm going to enjoy the sun now --
[ An abrupt end in a smear of ink. ]
It's such a beautiful day outside.
I bought a lovely bottle of wine from Granato, a sweet and sparkling white. Then, a bottle of Lenosian red. And fruit. And bread. I intend on marvelously drunk after I leave the Archives. So, you'll need to forgive the fumes that flitter down from the staircase into the main room of the teashop. I thought about closing up the shop in order to mourn the losses. But, after losing so much -- you realize (at least, in my experience) that the best way to honor the loss of acquaintances and friends is to pause each and every day to honor them before you continue the business of living. Which, really, they would want for us to do. (I think.) So, this is that pause.
To Prince Cicero Velenosa (Lord Malvici) : For the haikus. For being gracious enough to allow a commoner to win that battle of words. For the beauty of a blush. For that gown of rather scandalous Lycene make. (I'll likely give it away - because I'll never favor another color other than black at this point. It looks very dramatic.) For allowing me to be a spoke in your Consortium.
To Princess Serafine Velenosa: For saving my life. For the gift of friendship that you and Mistress Broadbent gave to me and Jeremiah. For the excellent adventure. For allowing me to call you Princess-Knight-Princess without correcting me. For saving my life. (It's important to mention that twice.) For the letter - which, I am sorry that you will never be able to read the response to. It would have been a simple: yes! Yes, to adventure.
You'll be missed. Everyone will be missed.
I think I'm going to enjoy the sun now --
[ An abrupt end in a smear of ink. ]
Written By Preston
March 21, 2018, 5:43 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
A few weeks ago I marched north at the head of the largest force of Templars since the last crusade. 69,000 brothers and sisters had answered the call.
Now, the squires and commanders that remain have reported in what price we paid to stand and hold the Gyre at bay, and to help hold the passes against the enemy as they tried to run down our wounded, the shamans and our healers.
Over 50,000 of my brothers and sisters will never return to their homes. Well over a thousand Godsworn knights, but the vast majority are our disciples - men and women who will not return to their communities across Arvum, and I must now begin to notify the Seraphs with my fellow men so they can tell the families. Not all of our forces had managed to be available for the march, but even with them, I have less men left to fight than I had lost in the North.
The Templars will rebuild, we must, but the cost of our commitment to this fight means we will not have the power to commit in the immediate fights that come.
Now, the squires and commanders that remain have reported in what price we paid to stand and hold the Gyre at bay, and to help hold the passes against the enemy as they tried to run down our wounded, the shamans and our healers.
Over 50,000 of my brothers and sisters will never return to their homes. Well over a thousand Godsworn knights, but the vast majority are our disciples - men and women who will not return to their communities across Arvum, and I must now begin to notify the Seraphs with my fellow men so they can tell the families. Not all of our forces had managed to be available for the march, but even with them, I have less men left to fight than I had lost in the North.
The Templars will rebuild, we must, but the cost of our commitment to this fight means we will not have the power to commit in the immediate fights that come.
Written By Cara
March 21, 2018, 5:32 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Brigida
It is rather hard to keep track of us, isn't it, given our propensity for dying in violent ways. Technically, this is my second-and-a-near-miss marriage. You also have some grand-nieces and a grand-nephew, but they're not very interesting as people yet. I shall inform you once they develop opinions and general usefulness.
Written By Theron
March 21, 2018, 5:28 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Darrow
The first spar I've ever fought in the city of Arx, and it was hardly fought. I expect you fought equally as hard against an enemy a thousand times mightier than me.
You die a hero's death, Darrow Darkwater. Many will be envious of your deeds, your courage and your tenacity.
I hail you and drink in your honor.
You die a hero's death, Darrow Darkwater. Many will be envious of your deeds, your courage and your tenacity.
I hail you and drink in your honor.
Written By Theron
March 21, 2018, 5:27 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Valdemar
You fought side by side with me. You, Sparte Fatchforth and Master Caspian Wild, and so many Thraxians who rallied together and were willing to march all the way to the enemy's inner ranks.
Thank you, my Lord. It is an honor to be a Sword in the same age as you grace Arvum with your House's might.
We didn't exchange many words, but rest assured you were seen.
Gods bless.
Thank you, my Lord. It is an honor to be a Sword in the same age as you grace Arvum with your House's might.
We didn't exchange many words, but rest assured you were seen.
Gods bless.
Written By Brigida
March 21, 2018, 3:58 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Cara
Well, will you look at that! I lost track of you after your fourth or fifth marriage, dear. A Grayson, now? Good on you.
Written By Venturo
March 21, 2018, 3:51 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
Once in my journeys, I found myself in Southport, where I made fast friends with a remarkable artist. His work was done primarily with the charcoal or quill, sketches that would capture whatever moment he was watching. One day, as we spoke, he showed me his latest works, something he did in his spare time to try a different angle. They were beautiful and mesmerizing. One of them, at first glance, looked like a pair of faces looking at each other... until you tipped it just so, your eyes refocused, and now it was a wine goblet. Another had stairs that formed right angles into a maze in impossible manners, and you were left certain in one moment you were looking up upon the floors, only to think in the next heartbeat you were looking down. No matter how often you stared and studied, the visual mirage would shift. Some people, I find, are just like these fine sketches, dual sides that shift before your eyes, leaving one curious, pleased, confused and amused.
Written By Cara
March 21, 2018, 3:35 p.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Echo
If I gave a copper for the opinions of every self-aggrandizing sword-obsessed royal with enough manual dexterity to wield a quill, I would be both penniless and utterly lacking in time.
Thankfully, I have secretaries who tend to this sort of nonsense.
Thankfully, I have secretaries who tend to this sort of nonsense.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.