Written By Korka
Sept. 21, 2017, 2:24 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Got my own place to stay. It's pretty nice. It's also quiet. It's strange how much different it is to be alone in the city than it is to be alone in the forests. Never had my own space like this before, don't really know what to do with it.
Written By Orazio
Sept. 21, 2017, 2:19 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Glancing over the journals my acolytes have curated for me, it seems the defenders of the institution of thralldom incorporate: a Grimhall (a family whose treatment of its people is known to make even other members of the Isles shuffle their feet and speak of restraint and dignity owed to the ones under your care), a recent member to the fealty (sadly of my own family - I assure you, however, that no Saik tutor ever expressed positive sentiments towards thralldom), a crazed atheist (and a strong argument against such foolishness if there ever needed to be), and a Prince (or, at least, the legitimate son of a Princess) who is known to lie about his opinions on colors (and worse, to do so /poorly/) out of fear of having to defend them.
They are at least each in appropriate company.
They are at least each in appropriate company.
Written By Freja
Sept. 21, 2017, 2:06 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Ira
I do not make it a habit of reading other journals, for I have you know...impending threats against the lives of my people to contend with, but I do have one of my men keep an ear out for when my name is mentioned.
Poetry, attributed to me over a pun it seems?
It isn't often I get and admirer, if ever. Let alone one I have never met.
If this 'crazed alchemist' is so inclined, I like whiskey, flowers, poetry, and long walks through the battlefield over the enemies I have bested.
Beaches on moonlit nights are -so- last year.
Poetry, attributed to me over a pun it seems?
It isn't often I get and admirer, if ever. Let alone one I have never met.
If this 'crazed alchemist' is so inclined, I like whiskey, flowers, poetry, and long walks through the battlefield over the enemies I have bested.
Beaches on moonlit nights are -so- last year.
Written By Caelis
Sept. 21, 2017, 2:01 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Guard puppy needs a bigger bladder so we have less night time guard puppy potty trips. I now understand the true purpose of a nightgown.
Written By Thena
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:49 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Fergus
Ah, right, complacency. That always solves things.
Written By Eleyna
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:47 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirene
You had me at "black goo".
Written By Fergus
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:41 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
All these fucking bleeding hearts. Thralldom is bad, slavery is bad. Blah-fucking-blah.
Here's a thought. Tend to your own fucking business and let Thrax sort their own shit. Ain't my business, ain't your business.
Here's a thought. Tend to your own fucking business and let Thrax sort their own shit. Ain't my business, ain't your business.
Written By Preston
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:26 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Ira
Faith is slavery? If you wish slavery, imagine a world without the Faith. Locked inside our own minds and self interests. Beholden only to temporal powers. Imagine a world where the roads are no longer kept free by the work of the Knights of Solace. Imagine a world where Templars are not there to hold the enemies of the faithful at bay and deal with the abandoned tribes and other dangers. Imagine a world where people die of want because there are no mercies to provide for them. Imagine a world where our memories flit away, unknown with no scholars to record them. Imagine the lands, untamed and unusable, trapping us within our cities because there is no lodge of petrichor to care and tend to it. And I could go on.
Faith, and The Faith, have done more to lift our eyes from the mud and to the horizon than anything. They have opened us to whole new understandings. And even ignoring the spiritual, the stability the Faith has given allows for the Compact. Our guardianship of our customs, our history, our tradition has allowed us to endure even when the world wants to crush us. To see life as slavery is to revel in death as freedom. And that I will not do.
Faith, and The Faith, have done more to lift our eyes from the mud and to the horizon than anything. They have opened us to whole new understandings. And even ignoring the spiritual, the stability the Faith has given allows for the Compact. Our guardianship of our customs, our history, our tradition has allowed us to endure even when the world wants to crush us. To see life as slavery is to revel in death as freedom. And that I will not do.
Written By Shae
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:21 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
I can send some bacon apple cinnamon muffins over via Mal!
Written By Alis
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:18 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
I'm sorry. (Okay no I'm not)... there are no maple bacon muffins left >.> I needed comfort food okay??
Written By Edain
Sept. 21, 2017, 1:03 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Ira
I can not for the life of me figure out what emotional investment an..... eclectic alchemist from the Lyceum has in defending the institution of Thralldom which is as illegal in the Lyceum city-states as it is the rest of Arvum outside the Mourning Isles.
I feel like maybe this is another form of experiment. Testing the results of combining combustible words and emotions instead of chemicals. If so that's impressive actually and I commend you.
Even so you seem a bit unbalanced. I could send some saurkraut soup and maple bacon muffins if you like. They are amazing recouperative foods.
I feel like maybe this is another form of experiment. Testing the results of combining combustible words and emotions instead of chemicals. If so that's impressive actually and I commend you.
Even so you seem a bit unbalanced. I could send some saurkraut soup and maple bacon muffins if you like. They are amazing recouperative foods.
Written By Ira
Sept. 21, 2017, 12:59 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
Faith is just slavery with another name.
Being embraced by it after I die? Well, that's just shite. Can you talk to Her about that? Maybe ask Her to make an exception, and ignore me?
Being embraced by it after I die? Well, that's just shite. Can you talk to Her about that? Maybe ask Her to make an exception, and ignore me?
Written By Ira
Sept. 21, 2017, 12:23 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Freja
How soft the snow does fall
Soft and still
Beauty serene
But you, princess
Are more beautiful yet.
Your hair tumbles,
Freshly spun
Your eyes glisten
Mirth untold
Were I a different man
Would it were
I'd marry you for sure.
---
I'm a better composer than a poet, but there you have it. My heart on a page. She's so perfect. I would kill a God for her. I'm head over heels madly in love.
Soft and still
Beauty serene
But you, princess
Are more beautiful yet.
Your hair tumbles,
Freshly spun
Your eyes glisten
Mirth untold
Were I a different man
Would it were
I'd marry you for sure.
---
I'm a better composer than a poet, but there you have it. My heart on a page. She's so perfect. I would kill a God for her. I'm head over heels madly in love.
Written By Aureth
Sept. 21, 2017, 12:20 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Ira
Grayhopes have higher standards.
Written By Aureth
Sept. 21, 2017, 12:19 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Ira
Arguing empathy versus economics with a man whose very profession requires him to lack the empathy that the gods gave a smithing hammer does strike me as a waste of time, generally speaking.
That said, I have a little time to waste with my pen and ink this morning:
Many of the poor have few choices. Sometimes they are ugly choices. When you have no choice at all, taken from you by another person, that is an affront to the Faith. This is not actually so complicated as one might make it out.
Nor is the institution practiced by the Thrax _identical_ to the practices of the Eurusi slavers. Just as these things are not so complicated as one might make it out, they are also not actually so simple as absolutes require.
My opinions on these matters are well known. All human souls are spun of the same stuff. From the lowest of the low to the highest of the high, you were placed here by the same hand, and She will embrace you again when your journey is done, however that end may come.
Even if you are a blithering prat, She will embrace you all the same. I hope you will take comfort from that, brother philosopher.
That said, I have a little time to waste with my pen and ink this morning:
Many of the poor have few choices. Sometimes they are ugly choices. When you have no choice at all, taken from you by another person, that is an affront to the Faith. This is not actually so complicated as one might make it out.
Nor is the institution practiced by the Thrax _identical_ to the practices of the Eurusi slavers. Just as these things are not so complicated as one might make it out, they are also not actually so simple as absolutes require.
My opinions on these matters are well known. All human souls are spun of the same stuff. From the lowest of the low to the highest of the high, you were placed here by the same hand, and She will embrace you again when your journey is done, however that end may come.
Even if you are a blithering prat, She will embrace you all the same. I hope you will take comfort from that, brother philosopher.
Written By Ira
Sept. 21, 2017, 12:18 p.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
I might as well change my name to Greyhope, then.
Written By Freja
Sept. 21, 2017, 11:17 a.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
I find all of this lively debate on the Thraxian economic structure simply....enthralling.
*There is a scribe's note that the Redrain Princess erupted into a fit of giggles and a facepalm was heard a few desks down from where the scribe sat.*
*There is a scribe's note that the Redrain Princess erupted into a fit of giggles and a facepalm was heard a few desks down from where the scribe sat.*
Written By Eirene
Sept. 21, 2017, 11:03 a.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
I'm going to entirely tune out the argument on slavery and thralldome to focus on a lovely bit of ugly black goo so kindly brought back to study. My thanks to the brave men and women, freeborn or thrall alike, who went through the Abyss and back, literally, to do so.
On that note, black goo studies anyone? Usual suspects to apply.
On that note, black goo studies anyone? Usual suspects to apply.
Written By Samantha
Sept. 21, 2017, 10:52 a.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
Oh, I suppose I should mention; I've decided to try my hand at writing a book. It's meant to be a primer for those wishing to engage in the craft and art of Diplomacy with particular emphasis on how to engage with those outside of the Compact's society. The process has been slow, but I find that I may be halfway through my first pass before I go over it once more and make some revisions.
A few folk out there may have some idea of its structure; I liken diplomatic efforts to the act of building a house.
A few folk out there may have some idea of its structure; I liken diplomatic efforts to the act of building a house.
Written By Samantha
Sept. 21, 2017, 10:49 a.m.(4/4/1007 AR)
I wrote an essay on thralldom back in 1005, which some like-minded people saw fit to publish. I've included a portion of it below:
It is a truth nigh-universal that the state of thralldom is only a scant step above the institution of slavery. The premise of this system is that of indentured servitude, with few if ever any earning their wage with the intent to release them from their eventual debt. More frequently thralls die in servitude, and it is not unknown for their debt to be further passed down to their offspring, who must in turn engage themselves into the system in order to pay it off, while acruing more debt.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It is also a truth night-universal that the institution of thralldom is regarded in disdain by almost all the regions of our great kingdom, save amongst the Thrax, from which it originates. In the past, thralls who have escaped have been welcomed into the service of other lords and masters in order to prevent their return to such a demeaning and inhumane circumstance. However, this was done as a quiet measure, with no one truly daring to openly challenge the convention. Until now, all objection has been subversive. But if the nobility ofour great land is to truly act in the name of the people they have by the grace of the Gods been granted to lead, this social construct must be confronted, and a solution must be sought.
Dear friends, it may seem on the surface that an immediate abolishment of thralldom is the natural conclusion to such thoughts, however that is the furthest from the case. It is important to remember that the House of Thrax and its banner Houses are strong, providing members of our great land, and to simply insist that they revert an entrenched element of their culture and economy would be to do them a disservice. We must not throw the lives of so many into chaos, not only those who gain directly from thralldom, but also those who live simpler lives that are dependent on a secure economy and would suffer as a result of too swift a change, and for thralls themselves, who would eventually need to realize a new way of thinking about their personal value and worth. Change and growth are painful processes, but with guidance and support, great change for the betterment of all men and women may happen.
I do not believe that all Thrax or all of their bannermen believe in maintenance of this institution, but are perhaps cautious of speaking out against it. They are a proud, strong people. If any were able to face such a significant alteration of their lives and culture, it would be them.
But what solutions may we offer, to ease the pains that would surely come from such a deconstruction? How can we buffer our fellows who, if they choose to commit to this course, will surely suffer from the loss of an established institution? Can solutions be found at the Crown level? Through the support of the other Great Houses? Perhaps, if House Thrax is so willing, a kind of council can be formed to discuss the topic of gradual abolishment in a way that minimizes the impact.
All men and women deserve the right to shape their destiny in as much as they are able, in the loyal and willing service to those responsible for their mutual care. To trap any in less is to reduce them to a state of chattel. If your great kingdom is to be a beacon of true greatness and utopia, we can no longer quietly avoid the inequality present within the realm. It must be faced head on, but respectfully and with consideration for those who will need to prepare for the brunt of this change. Anyone familiar with the natural world knows this to be true: the strongest creatures of the forest and sea survive by adapting to their circumstances. It is not easy, but for doing so, they become stronger, swifter, and more powerful than before. If we can succeed in this my friends, it makes not just the House of Thrax more powerful, but it will bring greater power to us all, throughout the realm.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today, things are very different. Progress has been slow - and I believe that this is a good and right pace for the progress necessary. As jusice begins to be tempered by compassion, as reform evolves the way crime and punishment are dealt with. And reform has come from some of the most unexpected parties involved. One of the reasons that despite our philosophical differences, Deepwood has such strong trade ties with Thrax and most of its vassals - because by aiding in providing a stable economy, I can reduce the financial burden that would come from the abolition of thralldom as it progresses.
We can spend our time condemning what has been done, or we can encourage better action for the future. I know that which I choose.
It is a truth nigh-universal that the state of thralldom is only a scant step above the institution of slavery. The premise of this system is that of indentured servitude, with few if ever any earning their wage with the intent to release them from their eventual debt. More frequently thralls die in servitude, and it is not unknown for their debt to be further passed down to their offspring, who must in turn engage themselves into the system in order to pay it off, while acruing more debt.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It is also a truth night-universal that the institution of thralldom is regarded in disdain by almost all the regions of our great kingdom, save amongst the Thrax, from which it originates. In the past, thralls who have escaped have been welcomed into the service of other lords and masters in order to prevent their return to such a demeaning and inhumane circumstance. However, this was done as a quiet measure, with no one truly daring to openly challenge the convention. Until now, all objection has been subversive. But if the nobility ofour great land is to truly act in the name of the people they have by the grace of the Gods been granted to lead, this social construct must be confronted, and a solution must be sought.
Dear friends, it may seem on the surface that an immediate abolishment of thralldom is the natural conclusion to such thoughts, however that is the furthest from the case. It is important to remember that the House of Thrax and its banner Houses are strong, providing members of our great land, and to simply insist that they revert an entrenched element of their culture and economy would be to do them a disservice. We must not throw the lives of so many into chaos, not only those who gain directly from thralldom, but also those who live simpler lives that are dependent on a secure economy and would suffer as a result of too swift a change, and for thralls themselves, who would eventually need to realize a new way of thinking about their personal value and worth. Change and growth are painful processes, but with guidance and support, great change for the betterment of all men and women may happen.
I do not believe that all Thrax or all of their bannermen believe in maintenance of this institution, but are perhaps cautious of speaking out against it. They are a proud, strong people. If any were able to face such a significant alteration of their lives and culture, it would be them.
But what solutions may we offer, to ease the pains that would surely come from such a deconstruction? How can we buffer our fellows who, if they choose to commit to this course, will surely suffer from the loss of an established institution? Can solutions be found at the Crown level? Through the support of the other Great Houses? Perhaps, if House Thrax is so willing, a kind of council can be formed to discuss the topic of gradual abolishment in a way that minimizes the impact.
All men and women deserve the right to shape their destiny in as much as they are able, in the loyal and willing service to those responsible for their mutual care. To trap any in less is to reduce them to a state of chattel. If your great kingdom is to be a beacon of true greatness and utopia, we can no longer quietly avoid the inequality present within the realm. It must be faced head on, but respectfully and with consideration for those who will need to prepare for the brunt of this change. Anyone familiar with the natural world knows this to be true: the strongest creatures of the forest and sea survive by adapting to their circumstances. It is not easy, but for doing so, they become stronger, swifter, and more powerful than before. If we can succeed in this my friends, it makes not just the House of Thrax more powerful, but it will bring greater power to us all, throughout the realm.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today, things are very different. Progress has been slow - and I believe that this is a good and right pace for the progress necessary. As jusice begins to be tempered by compassion, as reform evolves the way crime and punishment are dealt with. And reform has come from some of the most unexpected parties involved. One of the reasons that despite our philosophical differences, Deepwood has such strong trade ties with Thrax and most of its vassals - because by aiding in providing a stable economy, I can reduce the financial burden that would come from the abolition of thralldom as it progresses.
We can spend our time condemning what has been done, or we can encourage better action for the future. I know that which I choose.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.