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Written By Alis

March 21, 2018, 11:17 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Edain

Prince Edain,

I write this all down from the ship as we sail back to the mainland, because I am not sure I will want to remember it all and repeat it word for word once I can stand in front of you to deliver the final tallies of our dead to memorialize.

First, I must tell you that every one of our soldiers fought well and bravely, with honor as befits an Oathlander. They did not flinch, they did not break, they did not fail. Even, no... especially the fallen, who died so that an innocent would never have to face the horror that was there. I have already begun the writing of their stories for us, so we can tell their families of their heroism. We have lost at least half of the cavalry that came to Setarco at the last minute from Southport. But they were sorely needed. There are many who should be given additional recognition. It was truly an honor to watch people from all three of the fealties represented fight together as one unit, helping one another, even in sorrow as Princess Serafine Velenosa fell to an enemy creature.

There are not enough thanks to go around, in describing how the Archduchess, the Archduke Consort, Prince Galen and I were able to work together to make sound tactical choices and see them carried out. I hope we have shown our strength in setting aside differences when it is time to face an enemy of the Compact.

I am not certain if you have heard of the creatures that met us on the battlefield. Giant dogs that were able to tear through even the hardiest of armor, and... strange amalgamations of things. A horse with tentacles (I believe Sir Thorley has coined it a Nopetopus), and a snake thing with spider mandibles and a halibut tail? I cannot decide between a Nopester and a Sniderbut to call it. I am sure we were all hallucinating. Perhaps from the fear and disgust and gnawing ... horror that overtook to many as the enemy came ashore. The mind does strange things.

At one point, the wind was so strong it felt as if we were all pinned to the wall like flies trapped in a web. But, fortunately, it subsided as the enemy retreated. Setarco stands. And thank the Gods for it.

Princess Alis Valardin

Written By Lucita

March 21, 2018, 11:09 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Estaban

Estaban, oh, my sweet Estie. We both knew there was risk, that one or both of us might not return but we chose to put our fears aside and do our duty, what had to be done. It just hurts so much, so very much. You had an impact on so many lives, meant so much to a great number of people. I'm not the only one hurting, you have friends who love..loved you, too.

I have trouble thinking of you as gone. I miss the sound of your voice, your laugh, the teasing note in your voice, the strength in the commands you'd give and your fierce determination, or your gentle words. I miss the way your arms comfort and drive away the simple nightmares of the horrors we had seen. I miss your patience, your wisdom, the way you opened up and shared your thoughts, your worries, your feeling with me, the way you sought my suggestions and listened, really listened to me. Every time I start to write tears start to flow. Some things are just too painful too personal to think about right now when I don't have the luxury of giving way to more grief. I have to be strong, for our child or children, to make my way back home and let Lord Vomas know, to try to handle things there, the way you wanted me to do. You have left me friends and family to help get through this, my mind knows this, but right now it is hard to not feel so alone, so lost without you.

We make...made a good team, Estie, both for our house, the Saiks, and as a couple. I'll try to not let you down. It is just so..damned ...hard. We had too little time together, and that small child, that little flutter I feel within me will have no time at all with you. My heart breaks.

Written By Eleyna

March 21, 2018, 10:37 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

I am a poison to everyone who has ever loved me.

Written By Reese

March 21, 2018, 10:33 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Serafine

I was not as close to Princess Serafine as many, but I would still like to take the time to write about her.

When I was a little Reese, losing all my spars, didn’t have command over anything, not even a litter of kittens, Serafine was kind to me. She would spar with me, train with me, showed great patient for my lack of ability and yet it went deeper than that. Princess Serafine also showed faith, hope and belief with me. She was this tiny, badass, powerhouse of a warrior and when I looked upon her, I felt hope that I could also be badass.

One of mine earlier experiences with her was when we went into the Grayson forest to escort refugees back. Duke Dagon was the leader of the mission and Princess Serafine was there. This really stands out to me, because it was my first mission into the Gray Forest. Many more would follow, but Serafine was there at the first. She fought so well, but that is not what I remember most about her on this mission. There was a little girl there and Serafine showed this great kindness to her and all the other children refugees there. She was there as a warrior, but she showed a motherly love to those who lost everything to Brand.

Another memory that stands out is when Lord Ansel showed opened the now famous gauntlet for the very first time. He opened it at a Ministry of Defense meeting, back in the day, when I was all wide-eyed and just amazed to be welcome at such meetings at all. Serafine was there with Leta and this was the first time I realize notice the intense and great love between them. It is hard to fully put this into words what happened there as we all ran the gauntlet, but the spark between them was so intense and it wasn’t just the spark of lust, although that was there. It was the deeper bond of a full and trusting alliance. I believe that Leta fell off one of the obstacles if I remember right, but it was so long ago, but the memory of Serafina at her side after that fall is a powerful one.

As most know and as nobody needs said, Princess Serafine was an amazing warrior princess who fought battle after battle. She is a hero against Silence and she is a hero against the sea beast. She is example for other warrior princesses to follow. She is badass while still being be real, humble, kind, mothering and approachable. Very few badasses well ever be as chill and as unhindered by pride as Princess Serafine There is none like her and never will be again.

Written By Enyo

March 21, 2018, 10:18 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

It's been a rather chaotic whirlwind recently. I couldn't even begin to describe how I feel right now, perhaps once things have truly been calm for a little while I can more fully analyze what I'm feeling.

There is, however, one thing I know right now. I'm changing clothes. Taking a long, hot bath. Finding my friends and giving each and every one of them a big, giant hug.

Written By Eirene

March 21, 2018, 10:13 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Estaban

Gods fucking damn it, Saik. I ordered your stupid ass not to die.

Written By Reese

March 21, 2018, 10:06 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Compact,

I write as the most recent acting admiral of the Grayson Fleet and as a member of the Untied Fleet of Compact. It is with a heavy heart that I write about what happened as my thoughts are still with Baron Estaban and Princess Serafina. That being said those who went with the Grayson fleet should still be acknowledged.

Princess Lou. My sister was at my side through both battles using her cross bow. She was also there in case something happened to me as she is trained in sailing and it would give us someone to step up and take a command. It huge deal as she learned to sail so she would be able to do such. I was very glad to have there with me.

Prince Luca. Prince Luca was our badass heavy hitter of the Grayson fleet during the battle. He fought those who boarded our ship, allowing me to focus my efforts on sailing and commanding. Luca took out an arrow that was headed right for me before it reached me and I believe it largely having Luca right that protecting that kept me from getting hurt and kept in a position where I could primarily command. It goes beyond that though, he kicked ass, he defeated many of our foes. He showed no fear and constant great skill.

Princess Isolde. She joined the Grayson fleet in the final battle and it was no small thing. Her prayers and inspiration gave us the courage to continue even as the odds seemed against us. She helped the Grayson warriors to fight past the fear. Princess Isolde was seriously injured while on my ship, something that I greatly regret. She reached a healer and I believe and hope she will be okay. She has my gratitude.

Lord Graham. He was a powerful warrior with the Grayson fleet fighting the foes with his sword and making a difference in the battle. I was honored and please to have him with us.

Lady Arianna. She also joined our ship, fighting against our foes, showing great bravery, but also serving as protector to Princess Isolde and carrying her way from danger after she was injured.

Lady Peri. She was commanding the ships of our vassals and she was awesome in so many ways, persistent, fearless and brave. She continued to command while injured. She kept her ships close to the Grayson ships and we worked as a team and with great success. Lady Peri’s skills in naval warfare something to be admired.

Lord Kaldur. He was at his sister’s side through the whole battle, being her sword while she commanding and taking injuries. He never backed down, never showed fear and instead showed a willingness to do whatever was needed to keep his sister in a position of being able to command.

This journal just covers the those when went with the Grayson ships or the ships our vassals. I hope to speak more about others who came later. We were just a part of the United Fleet of Compact and were deeply honored to sever under High Lord Victus’ command with our allies.

Reese

Written By Lavinia

March 21, 2018, 10 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Vano

Brother,

All Rivenshari hearts rejoice at the news of your near return. From the stories that have reached us here, it is not only us that rejoice at you, but the spirits as well, who stood by your side and aided in the Compact's great victory. No words of praise that I could offer to you would ever equal the pleasure they have in you.

Dear Athaur does not know it yet, but we shall be having a party to celebrate your return.

Written By Lavinia

March 21, 2018, 10 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Vano

Brother,

All Rivenshari hearts rejoice at the news of your near return. From the stories that have reached us here, it is not only us that rejoice at you, but the spirits as well, who stood by your side and aided in the Compact's great victory. No words of praise that I could offer to you would ever equal the pleasure they have in you.

Dear Athaur does not know it yet, but we shall be having a party to celebrate your return.

Written By Zoey

March 21, 2018, 9:03 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

I just received word that my friends are safe. I am so blessed to have all I love return to me. Many are not so lucky.

Written By Vano

March 21, 2018, 8:43 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

Sent from Setarco:

To my family.

I am alive, but not unscathed. The warriors of Rivenshari proved they are still worth the tolling of the bells we had been known for in years past. I am no leader, but as Shaman of Riva, I am proud of how they did. Still, of those that went with me south, a discernible number are missing. Dead or lost. I pray the Spirits guide them to rest.

As for myself, I saw a great deal of action on the water. And things that I'm not sure I can describe with complete justice to what my eyes saw. I had told myself that after Brand, I'd be willing to give anything credit. Even saying that, it defies most notions of rational thought. Seen plenty of strange things, but never a shark made out of glass. With teeth as large as I'm tall.

My forearm hurts, but I'm sure it'll hurt months from now. I doubt the bracelet can be removed without losing my hand, fused together as they now seem to be. An ugly, inflamed mass of cooked meat and silver. A 'brand' of my own, I suppose. A reminder. As if I needed any more. The pain will subside I imagine. Though I'm not quite sure how to explain to Admiral Caelis that she may not be getting this back.

Not quite sure how it happened. But what I do know is that the Spirits do not abandon. They are here, as they always have been. As they always will be. I was only their conduit for the wrath they gave to the Gyre. I'm glad to of played my part in that. Gladder still that they answered my call. I had always wondered if I was worthy of that. Seems they have seen fit to give me an answer in regard, though it may not always be the same answer next time.

Still, I'm counting my blessing. And I have much to think on. Time to heal. And time to consider a shirt with a large sleeve on the left arm.

Written By Sparte

March 21, 2018, 8:38 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)

We held, but with losses. Four men and women of the hundred entrusted to me were gravely wounded. One died instantly and is perhaps fortunate for it, the others suffer still and are in critical care under the mercies. I have taken the time to get to know each of those who came to serve in Setarco under my command. They were all strangers scant weeks ago, and now we will all mourn those who fell together. Tears in our wake.

There is another who fell where I could see, an old friend named Princess Serafine Velenosa. She introduced me to many things in Arx while I was still barely learning my way around. There are others who will feel her loss more accutely than I will, for she had those who more than trusted and respected her. She was loved. I know she will be carried in their hearts and memories, and that she died fighting an honorable fight. I will be giving my prayers for her and the others fallen at the shrine of Death when we have returned to Arx.

Written By Orazio

March 21, 2018, 7:13 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Estaban

Gods damn it.

You had potential, my young cousin, though it hurt to look at you at times - I never wished anything for you but a long and successful life protecting our people.

Written By Driskell

March 21, 2018, 6:23 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Stormwall. Setarco. Southport. Darkwater. Arx. Many other places that you my friend aren't aware of.

I could not have asked for a better show of what makes humanity so dear to me than the displays of mortals who ignored at their own personal peril and set aside a vast amount of grievances and issues between each other to join together against the Abyss. I witnessed them use their most powerful ability...a free choice made by a soul; a choice made specifically and willingly to make the world better than it currently is no matter if they themselves wouldn’t be able to see that change take place. That is true sacrifice.

What did I see when I looked on the plains outside of Setarco down to the shore when I stood on the wall? You were most likely too busy to focus, friend, but I’ll describe what I saw. Imagine seeing tens of thousands of stars twinkling in the dark sky, a darkest sky. At first, one star begins to shine, and then another. Some of the stars shining so brightly it makes you have to squint. And then more shine brighter still as you can see a soul spark of hope light another’s by some action, some word…some choice. And then I saw some exploding in a dazzling shine of prismatic sparks like a falling star before it snuffed out. But as one began to glow, another beside it started shining brighter and where one was snuffed out, four or more began to dazzle.

Souls that are freely exercising their highest form of power, their choice is the most beautifulest sight to behold. No matter what the shell looks like on the outside, humanity when one looks at the inner core of their soul full of hope is inspiring and beautiful.

What a dead, dark and cold world it would be if hope didn’t exist.

May balance be maintained.

Written By Reese

March 21, 2018, 3:12 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Estaban

Baron Estaban Saik died in battle while commanding Southport Fleet as part of the Untied Fleet of Compact as we battled the sea beast’s ships, minions and Reveka Tyde. I give the details because I was there and because Estaban is a friend of mine. He fought bravely against the first wave and in the first naval battle, defeating many of our enemies. He sailed to Setarco to defend Compact, knowing that he might die and yet he put us all before his own safety. When the second and much big wave of enemies came, Estaban didn’t even think about backing down and once again he fought bravely and defeated many of our enemies. After the giant glass abyss shark exploded, Estaban was hit in the neck with a large piece of glass. He died very quickly and I do not believe that he suffered, but that is only a small comfort for those of us who suffer knowing he is gone.

I have many memories of Estaban. The fights with him on the sparing grounds, the long talks about my trouble with women (he was so understanding and insightful), his work with the Iron Guard, his heroism at the siege of silence, his work on Gray Forest missions, his loyalty to his friends, his caring nature, the hard work he put into his fighting and so much more. He saved my cousin’s life, Aiden. Prince Aiden did great work at the battle of Stormwall, but he wouldn’t be here to do that work if i wasn’t for Estaban. Esteban beloved and is beloved by Baroness Lucita. My thoughts and prayers are with her and their child. He choose an exceptional wife, but he is an exceptional man. Lucita was also bravely at the battle, risking her own life as well and doing great work to help protect us all.

My pain at losing Estaban is nothing compared to what Baroness Lucita and Prince Aiden most be feeling and yet it is still a deep pain. When I got back into the forest and start our missions once again, they will not be the same without Estaban. I have a painting I made for him, of a black panther in the gray forest. I gave him one copy and kept another for myself. I will treasure it always.

Written By Felix

March 21, 2018, 2:50 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

For those who may not read the Classifieds, for those who have fallen in battle - Seaborn Weaponry is offering to craft Memorial Weapons crafted to the specifics of those who wielded them. These will be done free of charge, and done at a priority over any order that isn't for someone going out to the field for battle.

Written By Vanora

March 21, 2018, 2:27 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Thank you.

To all who risked their safety and security to defend Setarco from this ancient enemy. I realize that it was for the good of the Compact and not out of generosity to the Silken City for generosities sake, and yet still wish to express my deepest appreciation.

Not on behalf of my former house, for I am sure that more eloquently than I they will express similar sentiments.

But on my own behalf, because I wished to say it too.

Thank you.

Written By Aiden

March 21, 2018, 2:22 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Estaban

I thought I knew loss. I thought I knew pain. I thought I was strong enough to bear what war brings, what the path of the sword brings for those who rise to the call. I thought I was ready to accept that those who I love, could meet their end. And then... I received word of ... Estaban Saik.

My lungs gave out... I knew no breathlessness as this. The very cavity of my chest drew in on itself, my ribs a prison for my breath, that the appeal of clawing fingers did not ease. I fell to my knees, the water streaming from my face a river beneath me, becoming the ocean of my sorrows which came to drown me in their currents of despairing grief. I closed my eyes and I saw a shadow. For a moment, I heard his laugh and saw him come to me with the sweetest smile, before he passed across my gaze. The caress of his memories was but the gentle breeze of the ocean wind, as I crumbled to the earth and lifted my rage to the skies.

For many long hours I bellowed profanities up to the Queen of Endings, not knowing where else and who else would hear my anguish with such grace as the Goddess who gathers us when our time is up. The Queen of Endings may have heard my anger and received my sorrows, but that does not replace the hole in my heart for my departed friend... Estaban... a man who I called my brother.

I ask for time to grieve, for the selfless man who saved my life two years ago upon the ramparts of Arx. I ask for time to grieve over a man who came to walk by my side as a brother, a friend that I shared laughter with as we drank, and the lion who aided my rise to a griffon. I ask for time to give him what he deserves of me; time to honor him, his memories, and our story together.

I will remain humbly bowed before the statue of Mangata, in silence and prayer, until this weight of loss... ..............................................................


[journal ends with ink blotches of unfinished thoughts]

Written By Cadenza

March 21, 2018, 2:04 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

I have lost cousins....

My words fail me at this time now that I can....breathe and let out all of these emotions.

I saw things from my nightmares. I did things that I said I wouldn't do per my loved ones....but I had people that watched my back. I will have those thanks but for now....I mourn.

Written By Grazia

March 21, 2018, 2:04 a.m.(5/24/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Theron

I am waiting for you, Theron Mazetti.

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