Written By Victus
March 18, 2018, 2:13 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Words delivered from the High Lord from the city of Setarco:
Our first battle has ended in a decisive victory. But there will not be time for celebration, for it is not our final battle on this front.
Though many still live, it's times like these we must give thanks to those who are no longer with us. To every soldier who celebrates and drinks themselves silly for another day, remember that another day is a luxury bought on the back of a soul that has departed our world. Ships and souls lay at the bottom of the Mourning Sea. They died for us and I ask that those here and those without give prayers to the Queen of Endings. Thank her for shepherding their souls to peace and thank them for their sacrifice.
I look to my left and right and also give my gratitude to the men and women out here that are defending our home with every breath they take.
First Captain Eleanor and her King's Own, who have had my back since the first blow was struck.
Duchess Margot Tyde who captains the Tyde Fleet. With grace.
Lord Wash Kennex who captains the Thrax fleet. He rammed the fuck out of a ship.
Prince Jasher Thrax who sails with the Thrax fleet. My cousin took a lot of shit out there and he was still standing.
Count Turo Navegant who captains Navegant's fleet. An expert on sailing.
Prince Antonio Velenosa who captains the Lyceum's fleet. He may have hung back but he knew exactly when to bring it forward.
Princess Katarina Valardin who captains the Unsullied. This is where she flourishes.
Princess Caelis Valardin who captains the Valardin fleet. Her whistle hurt my ears, but it was a small price to pay.
Baron Estaban Saik who captains the Saik fleet. His shots are on point.
Princess Reese Grayson who captains the Grayson fleet and a big pink ship. Yeah it was fucking pink, EVERYONE could see it.
Prince Luca Grayson who sails with the Grayson fleet. He dodges like a cat and has the skill to do it like a damn performance art.
Princess Lou Grayson who sails with the Grayson fleet. Her crossbow might have jammed once, but her shots were on point when they needed to be.
Captain Kaede Starfinder who captains the Redrain fleet. Even if the Bears on water isn't their strong suit, she brought everything.
Merek Black who captains his own vessel. He was spunky as could be and I'm sorry I didn't catch your ship's name.
Lady Ariella Igniseri who captains Igniseri's fleet. Took her shots and took them like a champion.
Lady Peri Seliki who captains Bisland, Deepwood, Riven, and Seliki fleets. Holy shit that's a lot of boats, good job.
Lord Kaldur Seliki who sails with the Seliki fleet. A valiant man he made.
Count Artorius Magnotta who captains Magnotta's fleet. He roars like a man possessed, even I was shaking a little.
Lady Armani Gilden who captains Gilden's fleet. Another of the wounded, another who refused to die.
There are many thousands of soldiers and crew that remain ready to stand against what comes next. There will be something that comes next for certain, and the Compact's fleet stands ready to be the bulwark of the seas one more time. Our enemy is the same, but they will come stronger and more determined than before. The Pirate King sends one of his generals to head this next invasion force. She has left me a message which I too will leave to all of you.
"Southport is in no danger from my king and I. Enough other forces turned their attention to that city that I suspect we will leave it to its f ate. But when the time comes, not a single Thrax will be spared. Not while Reveka Tyde draws breath."
I share this because I implore that we recognize our enemy's goals. What has led them to this path they take. We understand that as they choose to fight us head on, we choose to meet them. Gloria asks that we give honor to our foes, no matter their origin or their intentions. Mistakes of the past are to be learned from, to apologize for when one was wrong and become better for their actions by taking it upon themselves to perform better in all things.
To Reveka Tyde, I will tell you one thing. I am sorry for everything. When we meet in battle, may the Gods judge who is just.
I leave with two more pieces of grim news. Darkwater Watch has fallen and by our worst fears it would seem that the Pirate King has taken it as his new base of operations in his war against the Compact. Those who have fallen defending it will be honored and given justice when we take it back.
The man I considered kin up to weeks ago, Abbas Crownsworn, has been declared dead. I am sorry I failed you.
That will be all. Keep your spirits high, keep your prayers close. We're not out of this yet but we damn sure will be one day soon.
Tears in our wake, never at our wake.
Our first battle has ended in a decisive victory. But there will not be time for celebration, for it is not our final battle on this front.
Though many still live, it's times like these we must give thanks to those who are no longer with us. To every soldier who celebrates and drinks themselves silly for another day, remember that another day is a luxury bought on the back of a soul that has departed our world. Ships and souls lay at the bottom of the Mourning Sea. They died for us and I ask that those here and those without give prayers to the Queen of Endings. Thank her for shepherding their souls to peace and thank them for their sacrifice.
I look to my left and right and also give my gratitude to the men and women out here that are defending our home with every breath they take.
First Captain Eleanor and her King's Own, who have had my back since the first blow was struck.
Duchess Margot Tyde who captains the Tyde Fleet. With grace.
Lord Wash Kennex who captains the Thrax fleet. He rammed the fuck out of a ship.
Prince Jasher Thrax who sails with the Thrax fleet. My cousin took a lot of shit out there and he was still standing.
Count Turo Navegant who captains Navegant's fleet. An expert on sailing.
Prince Antonio Velenosa who captains the Lyceum's fleet. He may have hung back but he knew exactly when to bring it forward.
Princess Katarina Valardin who captains the Unsullied. This is where she flourishes.
Princess Caelis Valardin who captains the Valardin fleet. Her whistle hurt my ears, but it was a small price to pay.
Baron Estaban Saik who captains the Saik fleet. His shots are on point.
Princess Reese Grayson who captains the Grayson fleet and a big pink ship. Yeah it was fucking pink, EVERYONE could see it.
Prince Luca Grayson who sails with the Grayson fleet. He dodges like a cat and has the skill to do it like a damn performance art.
Princess Lou Grayson who sails with the Grayson fleet. Her crossbow might have jammed once, but her shots were on point when they needed to be.
Captain Kaede Starfinder who captains the Redrain fleet. Even if the Bears on water isn't their strong suit, she brought everything.
Merek Black who captains his own vessel. He was spunky as could be and I'm sorry I didn't catch your ship's name.
Lady Ariella Igniseri who captains Igniseri's fleet. Took her shots and took them like a champion.
Lady Peri Seliki who captains Bisland, Deepwood, Riven, and Seliki fleets. Holy shit that's a lot of boats, good job.
Lord Kaldur Seliki who sails with the Seliki fleet. A valiant man he made.
Count Artorius Magnotta who captains Magnotta's fleet. He roars like a man possessed, even I was shaking a little.
Lady Armani Gilden who captains Gilden's fleet. Another of the wounded, another who refused to die.
There are many thousands of soldiers and crew that remain ready to stand against what comes next. There will be something that comes next for certain, and the Compact's fleet stands ready to be the bulwark of the seas one more time. Our enemy is the same, but they will come stronger and more determined than before. The Pirate King sends one of his generals to head this next invasion force. She has left me a message which I too will leave to all of you.
"Southport is in no danger from my king and I. Enough other forces turned their attention to that city that I suspect we will leave it to its f ate. But when the time comes, not a single Thrax will be spared. Not while Reveka Tyde draws breath."
I share this because I implore that we recognize our enemy's goals. What has led them to this path they take. We understand that as they choose to fight us head on, we choose to meet them. Gloria asks that we give honor to our foes, no matter their origin or their intentions. Mistakes of the past are to be learned from, to apologize for when one was wrong and become better for their actions by taking it upon themselves to perform better in all things.
To Reveka Tyde, I will tell you one thing. I am sorry for everything. When we meet in battle, may the Gods judge who is just.
I leave with two more pieces of grim news. Darkwater Watch has fallen and by our worst fears it would seem that the Pirate King has taken it as his new base of operations in his war against the Compact. Those who have fallen defending it will be honored and given justice when we take it back.
The man I considered kin up to weeks ago, Abbas Crownsworn, has been declared dead. I am sorry I failed you.
That will be all. Keep your spirits high, keep your prayers close. We're not out of this yet but we damn sure will be one day soon.
Tears in our wake, never at our wake.
Written By Ven
March 18, 2018, 2:09 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Speaking with everyone about events, I can't help but think that we need to build some sort of lasting war memorial for the battles of Stormwall and Setarko. And more personal memorials for each of the heroes who fell on the field to save others. Perhaps statues in public squares, or in places meaningful to those honored?
And maybe just as important, I think we should make a full and lasting recounting of all the events that occurred for future generations to know. If we are to know and remember this history we need something more unified than the scattered pieces a person may gather from a dozen journals and personal accounts. Something that reads like the hand of one omniscient writer recounting the whole of events of each battle for every reader of the future to know so that no act of courage or piece of useful information on the actions of the enemy is lost.
And maybe just as important, I think we should make a full and lasting recounting of all the events that occurred for future generations to know. If we are to know and remember this history we need something more unified than the scattered pieces a person may gather from a dozen journals and personal accounts. Something that reads like the hand of one omniscient writer recounting the whole of events of each battle for every reader of the future to know so that no act of courage or piece of useful information on the actions of the enemy is lost.
Written By Reigna
March 18, 2018, 1:19 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Olivia
I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the actions of Lady Olivia Ashford. From the moment we arrived in Stormwall she was an asset. She worked hard, and when the battle began, she kept her focus and stayed on task. She was beyond helpful and the success of the healers would have been less without her.
Written By Monique
March 18, 2018, 1:11 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
The King was most gracious.
The event, successful.
Thank you, all, for coming together and being a shining beacon against the darkness.
The event, successful.
Thank you, all, for coming together and being a shining beacon against the darkness.
Written By Tobias
March 18, 2018, 1:09 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
I haven't been hit so hard and hurt so badly in a very long time.
The Battle of Stormwall proved that my plate armor suit was a very good investment; Taking a war maul to the chest as hard as I did and not having my ribs collapse in on themselves was pretty much a miracle, especially after the fall to the ground. I took some solid hits before that, but someone who can hit me hard enough to throw me off the wall? That takes serious strength.
The Mercies are very good at their job, but I still hurt all over. I think I'm going to be recovering from Stormwall for a while.
We faced some serious numbers there... but I'm proud of the work the Crimson Blades did. We're usually integrated into the main army and providing core troops and expertise.. being skirmishers isn't our usual job, but we did well.
The Battle of Stormwall proved that my plate armor suit was a very good investment; Taking a war maul to the chest as hard as I did and not having my ribs collapse in on themselves was pretty much a miracle, especially after the fall to the ground. I took some solid hits before that, but someone who can hit me hard enough to throw me off the wall? That takes serious strength.
The Mercies are very good at their job, but I still hurt all over. I think I'm going to be recovering from Stormwall for a while.
We faced some serious numbers there... but I'm proud of the work the Crimson Blades did. We're usually integrated into the main army and providing core troops and expertise.. being skirmishers isn't our usual job, but we did well.
Written By Reigna
March 18, 2018, 1:08 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
I am back. It was a... mmm. I did things I am shamed by. I did things I did not think I *could* do. I ordered things done in the moment because I had to, the thoughts of which haunt me. Many things are haunting me right now. I cannot sleep. Not for long, and never without dreaming. There is a new purpose born in me. I came back to Keaton Hall, walked through my door and took my son in my arms and curled up with him until he made me put him down. The scent of him helps. When I cannot sleep I hold him and I breathe deep and I can rest. But I do not think I will really sleep until Kael is back. It is not home until he is back. Is that ridiculous? Perhaps it is. But that does not make it untrue.
Gods watch over him.
Gods watch over him.
Written By Harlan
March 18, 2018, 12:37 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
We survived.
I cannot say that we won, for there is little victory at the cost of tens of thousands of our troops and a city. We survived.
Except...we didn't. Not all of us. I did not know Lady Eirlys Greenmarch, but I have heard that she was a hero. There are not words that can be offered to soothe the pain of a family member or loved one lost. There is only time. I feel for her friends, family and those who loved her though, as should we all.
I did learn a valuable lesson when Prince Aiden Grayson gave me command of the Grayson archers. That lesson is this: I was not ready. I bear the weight of many dead archers, especially when the enemy began to scale the walls and went into the city. I followed the plan that Prince Aiden set -- my skill...my leadership was not enough. I must correct this.
To the families of the men and women we lost -- I am sorry. As I said above, I know it does not help -- but I will bear the weight of my actions. Maybe it could not have been any better than it was. I do not know. I only know that I failed, and I must learn to be better.
I do wish to thank Count Thesarin Riven for his actions in saving my life -- I owe him, and can only begin with a drink. I am glad that Marquis Malesh Stonewood survived, and will heal. Corporal Violet Marjawn deserves our thanks for seeing, firing upon (and most importantly -hitting- whatever was driving the enemy forces at the wall. Recognition should also be given to Lady Emily Deepwood, Lord Michael Bisland and many others for their actions in fighting off the enemy -- as well as any others I have forgotten.
I do not look forward to the next battle, but I shall be there when I am needed.
I cannot say that we won, for there is little victory at the cost of tens of thousands of our troops and a city. We survived.
Except...we didn't. Not all of us. I did not know Lady Eirlys Greenmarch, but I have heard that she was a hero. There are not words that can be offered to soothe the pain of a family member or loved one lost. There is only time. I feel for her friends, family and those who loved her though, as should we all.
I did learn a valuable lesson when Prince Aiden Grayson gave me command of the Grayson archers. That lesson is this: I was not ready. I bear the weight of many dead archers, especially when the enemy began to scale the walls and went into the city. I followed the plan that Prince Aiden set -- my skill...my leadership was not enough. I must correct this.
To the families of the men and women we lost -- I am sorry. As I said above, I know it does not help -- but I will bear the weight of my actions. Maybe it could not have been any better than it was. I do not know. I only know that I failed, and I must learn to be better.
I do wish to thank Count Thesarin Riven for his actions in saving my life -- I owe him, and can only begin with a drink. I am glad that Marquis Malesh Stonewood survived, and will heal. Corporal Violet Marjawn deserves our thanks for seeing, firing upon (and most importantly -hitting- whatever was driving the enemy forces at the wall. Recognition should also be given to Lady Emily Deepwood, Lord Michael Bisland and many others for their actions in fighting off the enemy -- as well as any others I have forgotten.
I do not look forward to the next battle, but I shall be there when I am needed.
Written By Samael
March 18, 2018, 12:22 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
I am reminded that there are experiences in life I will simply never have. There are so many stories in this world. Outlooks. Backgrounds. Lives. They are all around me and they are there for me to mine and discover and experience. Each one making me more full and more complete. Vellichor tasks me with seeking knowledge and I think there it is, everwhere: the people.
Written By Esoka
March 18, 2018, 12:15 a.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Armel
My friendship with Grandmaster Armel was not an easy one to come to, but it was deep and true when we arrived there. I regret how long it had been since we talked and drank together, and that we did not one more time before he fell defending the field at Stormwall. I will remember the depth of his faith, his surprising resources of compassion, and his commitment to the charity and defense of civilization that are the heart of Gild's virtues. Whether you find rest or a new life upon the Wheel, may it bring you happiness.
Written By Cadenza
March 17, 2018, 11:55 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
To those we lost:
You sacrifice was not in vain. You honor us all with your life and we will continue to fight. We shall remember you and honor you.
To those injured:
We are here for you. Do not suffer alone. I know what it is like to keep it deep inside you and go it alone. Don't.
You sacrifice was not in vain. You honor us all with your life and we will continue to fight. We shall remember you and honor you.
To those injured:
We are here for you. Do not suffer alone. I know what it is like to keep it deep inside you and go it alone. Don't.
Written By Peri
March 17, 2018, 11:44 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
I do not know what I thought this war would be. They say we were victorious. Kaldur and I were lucky to make it out alive. No. Not even. To say such a thing disgraces the sacrifices of the men and women of my house.
Now we wait. Throught the night, now sleepless. I think about the dead in the water and if our friends will be forced to fight us. And when I sleep, I dream of this.
Now we wait. Throught the night, now sleepless. I think about the dead in the water and if our friends will be forced to fight us. And when I sleep, I dream of this.
Written By Sparte
March 17, 2018, 11:23 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Setarco is so incredibly white. I know very little of what is beneath it all, but the city stood out upon our approach and stands out all the more now that I have walked the walls. I hope that we can leave it as it was, and so far it seems possible we and this city will be so fortunate. I can only wonder at the fate of those elsewhere, and pray for them.
Written By Ignacio
March 17, 2018, 11:06 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Standing vigilant over a city that was left untouched by the recent battles, it does not mean that will always be the case. But that is not what my mind lingers upon.
My mind lingers to happier times, future times. The time grows near to make it known to the world as my heart leaps at the thought. It is what I strive for, work so hard for, what I fight for. The recent deaths reminds me of what I should embrace, life. To linger and let time slip through my fingers it not an option. To be bold, to grasp for the stars, and to hold the reward.
I can not wait as my hands tremble in anticipation.
My mind lingers to happier times, future times. The time grows near to make it known to the world as my heart leaps at the thought. It is what I strive for, work so hard for, what I fight for. The recent deaths reminds me of what I should embrace, life. To linger and let time slip through my fingers it not an option. To be bold, to grasp for the stars, and to hold the reward.
I can not wait as my hands tremble in anticipation.
Written By Thena
March 17, 2018, 10:32 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
I have returned to Arx. I am behind on my correspondence. Apologies to anyone I have not gotten in touch with yet; I don't much feel like talking.
Written By Alarissa
March 17, 2018, 10:31 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
To pay respects and offer condolences, you make your way to a shrine, or the cemetery, mausoleum. I remind people of this. These are the places you go if you are sorrowful. Go to the houses of the families, leave notes and letters, give to the rebuilding efforts when we know well and full the toll that this war has brought to our shores. These are the things you can do.
Written By Michael
March 17, 2018, 9 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
My thoughts and prayers are with the Fallen today. It is so strange that I was in the midst of most of the brutality of this battle, and came out with not a scratch. I am skilled, but skill barely mattered. I do not know why some men fell and others stayed alive. I did everything I could, and it still wasn't enough to hold the wall. I will get to come home to Zoey, and my uncle and my family. But so many do not.
Written By Terese
March 17, 2018, 8:31 p.m.(5/18/1008 AR)
Prince Gareth invited me to the House of Questions in Arx. I was able to tour the cells and he and I had a conversation about the battle of Stormwall which was nice. What stood out in this entire time of being a guest was that he actually had water available instead of just wine!
I think he just might like Oathlander orthodoxy. It isn't every day you get a special invitation to the Inquisition, be shown through their cells and house of questions and your host looks after your background!
I think he just might like Oathlander orthodoxy. It isn't every day you get a special invitation to the Inquisition, be shown through their cells and house of questions and your host looks after your background!
Written By Daemon
March 17, 2018, 8:05 p.m.(5/17/1008 AR)
I don't like war.
Written By Thena
March 17, 2018, 7:43 p.m.(5/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
There are so many people who deserve praise for their work at Stormwall; it would be impossible for me to recognize them all. However, I would like to draw special attention to the work of Countess Reigna Keaton, Guildmaster of the Physician's Guild, and all those who worked with her. I was forced to ask her to do something extremely difficult, something that goes against every instinct of a healer and a devotee of the gods, but she did it quickly and without question, as did the others with her. Their unhesitating action saved even more lives than just those whose injuries they tended. The healers fought and bled as much as the rest of us and in many cases more. They are all to be commended for their bravery and compassion.
Written By Percephon
March 17, 2018, 7:35 p.m.(5/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
[ Added to the entry, the following has been carefully penned on parchment in flowing, almost delicate script: ]
All the world breathes as one with life,
In the endless skies and countles stars,
and wildflowers of infinite hue,
She is, I know, still alive here --everywhere --
In every wonderful thing surrounding us.
In every wonderful thing inside of you.
In every wonderful thing.
All the world breathes as one with life,
In the endless skies and countles stars,
and wildflowers of infinite hue,
She is, I know, still alive here --everywhere --
In every wonderful thing surrounding us.
In every wonderful thing inside of you.
In every wonderful thing.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.