Written By Ilvin
June 4, 2017, 12:05 p.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aiden
Ah, even in these dark times, it warms my heart to read that my humble words have done some good. If I am able to help ease even one person's heart, then my path has not been in vain.
Written By Hadrian
June 4, 2017, 11:32 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
I'll not mourn her passage. I will celebrate it. That's what she would want. Right?
Written By Hadrian
June 4, 2017, 11:30 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Karadoc
Lord Karadoc is a man capable of great things. He's proven to be an invaluable member of the Arvum Refugee Relief Group. His ability to organize matters, set a goal, and pursue it will be a great asset for the people who are currently under the care of the Group.
He made some waves among the populace during the siege and I'll not claim to have agreed with them. I'll not judge the man for his convictions. He did what he felt was right and pursued that goal. It is that determination that I believe will greatly benefit those in need and I fully expect Lord Karadoc to exceed expectations in ensuring the Group makes the most of the charitable donations which we receive that go toward providing these people the opportunities that they'll need to succeed.
He made some waves among the populace during the siege and I'll not claim to have agreed with them. I'll not judge the man for his convictions. He did what he felt was right and pursued that goal. It is that determination that I believe will greatly benefit those in need and I fully expect Lord Karadoc to exceed expectations in ensuring the Group makes the most of the charitable donations which we receive that go toward providing these people the opportunities that they'll need to succeed.
Written By Aleksei
June 4, 2017, 11:25 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
What can I say about Juliet Fidante?
She stepped forward ahead of any of us to face Tolamar Brand. And she mocked him.
I wish I could tell you the kind of guts it took to step in front of the monstrosity he had become. She stepped up and called him the Failure of Oblivion. She told him we'd go easy on him.
It was all a distraction, of course. To give us an opening to begin the attack. But gods, those guts.
She may have been complicated. But I'll always remember her in that moment.
She stepped forward ahead of any of us to face Tolamar Brand. And she mocked him.
I wish I could tell you the kind of guts it took to step in front of the monstrosity he had become. She stepped up and called him the Failure of Oblivion. She told him we'd go easy on him.
It was all a distraction, of course. To give us an opening to begin the attack. But gods, those guts.
She may have been complicated. But I'll always remember her in that moment.
Written By Hadrian
June 4, 2017, 11:21 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Efforts with the Arvum Refugee Relief Group are well underway and progressing rather smoothly. The few minor incidents which have taken place have been resolved spectacularly by the group functioning as security for those who have sought temporary refuge in Southport Square. House Malvici's own Hawk Guard, the Iron Guard, the Knights of Solace, and all of those who have contributed to the safety of the area have our deepest gratitude.
To those who have volunteered time, silver, or other assets I can say without a doubt that those who find themselves on the receiving end of such generosity and charity do truly appreciate it. To those who are still uncertain whether to offer their assistance with the project? That is a decision that they themselves must make, but for those who do make the decision to offer their time there is plenty of work to be done. People to meet, Houses to petition for aid, permissions to be sought, routes to be planned, and so much more.
Every individual who has volunteered themselves has my gratitude and the gratitude of the many people longing for a fresh chance and brighter future whom they've helped already.
Should one wish to offer their aid, I implore any willing to reach out to Lady Caelis Malvici, Lord Karadoc Saik, or myself to arrange an opportunity to meet and discuss a potential fit. Having some, even vague, notion of what it is you would feel capable of doing on behalf of the refugees would be ideal purely so that we can ensure any relevant internal parties are available to attend the meeting. The charitable pursuits aside, it is an exemplary opportunity to meet new people within the city of Arx and beyond. No matter the House which you swear fealty to, there is work to be done and we can use you.
To those who have volunteered time, silver, or other assets I can say without a doubt that those who find themselves on the receiving end of such generosity and charity do truly appreciate it. To those who are still uncertain whether to offer their assistance with the project? That is a decision that they themselves must make, but for those who do make the decision to offer their time there is plenty of work to be done. People to meet, Houses to petition for aid, permissions to be sought, routes to be planned, and so much more.
Every individual who has volunteered themselves has my gratitude and the gratitude of the many people longing for a fresh chance and brighter future whom they've helped already.
Should one wish to offer their aid, I implore any willing to reach out to Lady Caelis Malvici, Lord Karadoc Saik, or myself to arrange an opportunity to meet and discuss a potential fit. Having some, even vague, notion of what it is you would feel capable of doing on behalf of the refugees would be ideal purely so that we can ensure any relevant internal parties are available to attend the meeting. The charitable pursuits aside, it is an exemplary opportunity to meet new people within the city of Arx and beyond. No matter the House which you swear fealty to, there is work to be done and we can use you.
Written By Cicero
June 4, 2017, 10:58 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Horrid tragedy
Mirrored rose picked too early.
Our turn with the shears.
Mirrored rose picked too early.
Our turn with the shears.
Written By Valery
June 4, 2017, 10:47 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
I'm also represented on the impressive large statue Lord Darren had made.
It feels a bit weird seeing myself there.
Chip and Boots are in it too.
It feels a bit weird seeing myself there.
Chip and Boots are in it too.
Written By Valery
June 4, 2017, 10:46 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
There was an event the other night at the Villa.
I got an award for my actions during the siege.
Not sure if I really deserve it though.
I got an award for my actions during the siege.
Not sure if I really deserve it though.
Written By Jhond
June 4, 2017, 10:32 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Unexpected questions are not always unwelcomed. Sometimes they're the best sort of questions.
Written By Jhond
June 4, 2017, 10:24 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Some people just aren't meant to lead others.
Written By Niamh
June 4, 2017, 10:11 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
I've spent the last few weeks tending to the Gold Order, riding from village to village in search of dedicated knights. It seems that in my time away much has happened in Arx. A friend has been murdered. A fine warrior companion was lost in the forest. Arx can be a dark place, but at least I had the weeks abroad to lighten my spirits.
Written By Joslyn
June 4, 2017, 9:06 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
The Arm wrestle was a welcome distraction from what has been the darkest chapter of my life. I laughed again, I smiled and I was able to revel in warmth and affection again. I think she would have preferred that to my gloominess from last night.
The Arm wrestle was great. I got to overpower Lord Saik, and my bout with Lord Estaban was one for the ages. It seemed we'd go on all night, but eventually my arm just gave out, and he was declared winner. Well, he had to leave so I advanced to the final round against Dame Alexis Wyrmfang.
For the record, yes I was distracted. Have you -seen- her? Oh gods, I'm blushing just writing this all down. So, yeah. I couldn't hold her back at all, and she made quick easy work of me. It was a good experience, a lot of fun. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
The Arm wrestle was great. I got to overpower Lord Saik, and my bout with Lord Estaban was one for the ages. It seemed we'd go on all night, but eventually my arm just gave out, and he was declared winner. Well, he had to leave so I advanced to the final round against Dame Alexis Wyrmfang.
For the record, yes I was distracted. Have you -seen- her? Oh gods, I'm blushing just writing this all down. So, yeah. I couldn't hold her back at all, and she made quick easy work of me. It was a good experience, a lot of fun. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Written By Merek
June 4, 2017, 9:06 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Juliet
I know we did not talk much, and the rumours still seem vague. I kind of hold out hope you are still around. But perhaps it is time to accept that you are not? Regardless, you were one of the most insightful Mirrormasks I've ever had the pleasure of talking with, and I thank you for that insight you gave me in the past.
Written By Merek
June 4, 2017, 9:04 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Thank you. It is nice to know that I can count on you to care for the Merchants of the Guild.
Written By Merek
June 4, 2017, 9:02 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Petal
I like the new tunics. I picked up one that was black with golden accents. I quite like the whole selection, and I perhaps might come to you when I start shopping around for more attire. Sheer silk is a Lycene's best friend!
Written By Merek
June 4, 2017, 9:01 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Selene
Is it me, or are you a bit different and more refined now? In any case, it is good to be able to visit you and the Whisper House still and find relaxation. You are as welcoming as always. You should come by my shop sometime again when I've made new goods, to restock your wine rack!
Written By Merek
June 4, 2017, 8:59 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
Try to throw people around a bit less. I know it looks wonderful, but it could in fact hurt them, even if they are criminals. We should always move directly for the most non-lethal route.
Written By Abbas
June 4, 2017, 7:27 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
I stopped my and prayed to Mangata this morning. Life is a fickle thing that goes with the pass of a blade and then showers the earth in moments by the bucket.
Yet the dead do not simply die and vanish. The souls of the departed take a piece of you with them and haunt you until the end of days.
I think of those who have yet to die in this conflict. There will be many. And when we thought we have given enough the blood tithe will come due again and again. It is our duty to keep the Compact together and not at odds. To that extent I must do my part. And others must do theirs to bridge the chasm between each other.
In this war our only chance is together. To reach this end we must compromise. We must compromise ourselves, our values, and we must see the world as one people of Arvum. And then as the war widens across endless horizons we must see each other as simply people.
I will do my part. Will you?
Yet the dead do not simply die and vanish. The souls of the departed take a piece of you with them and haunt you until the end of days.
I think of those who have yet to die in this conflict. There will be many. And when we thought we have given enough the blood tithe will come due again and again. It is our duty to keep the Compact together and not at odds. To that extent I must do my part. And others must do theirs to bridge the chasm between each other.
In this war our only chance is together. To reach this end we must compromise. We must compromise ourselves, our values, and we must see the world as one people of Arvum. And then as the war widens across endless horizons we must see each other as simply people.
I will do my part. Will you?
Written By Aiden
June 4, 2017, 5:29 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
I promised not to write in the white journals anymore, however that was a promise against Vellichor and against my heart. Somethings must be written to be released from the soul.
I am awake, unable to sleep. This is not unusual. It happens more often since the siege, especially when I'm alone. The memories of what I experienced come back and haunt my dreams. What if the Bringer in the Hall of Heroes had squeezed his hand around my neck a little tighter and all those people weren't there, my cousin Barric, Silas, Merek and many more whose faces blur when I try to recall that horrible moment? What if Orazio couldn't stop what was transpiring in the Queensrest and what if that man who knifed me in the back had hit somewhere vital? What if the thug had dragged his knife deep into my throat and all those Iron Guards and Mercenaries weren't there to stop him? What if that chair or that ... gods forbid, woman... hit me the right way when a Bringer flung them at me? What if Ainsley wasn't there to catch me when I fell off that balcony? What if... Estaban failed to jump into action? What if... the people I loved, didn't come home?
Should I be ashamed of these thoughts that wake me at night? I don't think so. For each of them remind me how precious life is. How precious the conviction of our family, friends, and our lovers are. It reminds me of how I am not alone, even if in the present physical I am. No. I am not ashamed. For these memories remind me of each and every person who has touched my life. With bad, there is always a balance of good and the good is that, my life is so much fuller for it.
Speaking of bad and the returning of good, my mind turns back to hearing Limerance's words spoken through his chosen, his Archlector. It is my hopes that when I write them, I will further remember them and live by these words. Here's what I recall most:
---
Like all things worth doing, though, it will take effort. As they say, nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight- and the love of family is something worth fighting for.
Strength of heart, of faith, of love can lead to as much greatness as strength of arms. Do not be ashamed of who and what you are, and who you love. If they think you a failure, the fault lies with them, not with you- for who would wish upon their own family the joyless life of following a path that is not your own? Do not think yourself a failure. You are who you are- and no one else can be who you are. Embrace your path with an open heart, let your love light the way, and you will *soar*.
Love is not an obligation, nor is it a chain. That we may love someone does not mean that they must, in turn, love us in the same way. And if you are to be loved, let yourself be loved for who you are- not for what someone else wants you to be. If you change yourself so that another may love you... what kind of love is that? If they love what you forced yourself to be, not who you truly are, then do they really love you, or just the image you presented? It is a sure path to misery, and I would not wish that upon anyone.
There is another love that many people forget, but it is an important one: it is the love of the self. You must love yourself. If you cannot look at yourself and love the person you are, then how could you hope others would love that person too? And if they do love that person, do they really love *you*? Love yourself, Aiden. Be the man you are meant to be, in your heart. With Limerance's grace, your family will love that person too- they will see what you see, the beauty and wonder of a life lived true to one's own self. But even if they do not- if they cannot see past their selfishness and expectations... love yourself regardless. Because your love for them is not an obligation, and trying to live as if it was, will bring you misery. It will not be easy, but you are not alone.
---
Those were words I needed to hear, the good I needed to hear. I needed to write anew to believe in them, and needed to embrace them. I wanted very much to be a private man, to keep my thoughts to myself, for some will certainly ruffle feathers. Then I remembered, it is my truth, these words. These are my reflections, drawn from my experiences.
I have shared and lived through horrible experiences with all of you, experiences I never wanted or sought. Yes, these experiences changed me, how could they not? I saw. I came to the city for the love of my brother, to help him find himself again when he had locked himself away in grief. I remained in the city not of my own will once he rose up again, instead I remained for the will of circumstance, and after the siege, I remain because of love. Love for my family, my friends, and importantly, for love for someone I have cherished from the first moment he tolerated me falling asleep on him.
The bad led me to the good. Without all that bad, I wouldn't have the good. I would still be in Bastion, living a quiet life, hidden amongst the mews and the tangles of the forest. I would not have met all my friends, nor seen the valor of my family, nor, met my first love. There's so much good, if you can manage the bad. For both in equal are a part of our lives.
So I say this, for I hear many rumors and feel that many of you believe in truths that no longer remain.
I love my brother. My journal calling him out was a misunderstanding and one that was written when I had a night of Crow's Rum to thank. I have not touched the stuff since - very good though, if you need to get drunk fast, that's the stuff. In any case. I submitted my apologies to my brother. Our challenge ahead will be between us, to learn and understand who've we've become, who we are now. That we are different people, changed by what we've experienced. We are brothers and brothers, quarrel. If people tell you that brothers don't fight, they lie. Hurts will pass. New understandings will form. Love has always been there.
Then, there is the great need for people to know my business of love and sharing my heart. So I will reveal it so that I may no longer be of subject of whispers and campaigns of rumors. What you may have heard is true. I am with Silas Whitehawk, we became something more than friends sometime after the siege. Be happy for us, for it is a rare thing to be accepted fully and utterly by a fellow human. I've only known animals to love unconditionally. Silas changed my way of thinking in that regard. He's never asked anything of me, shares everything with me, and we're happy - he makes me happy. Was it meant to be kept secret? No. It was never secret, we never denied it, perhaps I may have indicated that a certain book that made us into fictional characters, which isn't the same thing as denying it, for that book isn't truthful but a work of imagination, clearly. I'm no soldier.
What I am is a private man and I told my close friends when it came time for them to know, for I suspected they already knew or were eager to ask. I didn't tell my siblings at the time because we weren't very close, not in the same way that my friends are close, which is why I reacted the way I did in my previous journal despite the liquor. I was upset that I felt so disconnected from family. That is something I may very well work on, if they choose to do the same.
I am content with the good and the bad in my life, though there is much less the latter. I have so much to be grateful for and so much to give back to those around me and those in my life. The menagerie is just one way I hope to give back for all the good in my life. I hope to find more ways, soon. I know who I am now and what I'm capable of. It's time I find out how far I can go and how I can help the Arvum, or more simply, those who come into my life.
I am Aiden Grayson: bird geek animal enthusiast who enjoys tea, doesn't eat meat, likes yellow silk, steel-gray pants, and hugs a plush polar bear... and treasures a glass parrot and a metal dove! There's a lot more to me, for now...
...I am happy with that.
I am awake, unable to sleep. This is not unusual. It happens more often since the siege, especially when I'm alone. The memories of what I experienced come back and haunt my dreams. What if the Bringer in the Hall of Heroes had squeezed his hand around my neck a little tighter and all those people weren't there, my cousin Barric, Silas, Merek and many more whose faces blur when I try to recall that horrible moment? What if Orazio couldn't stop what was transpiring in the Queensrest and what if that man who knifed me in the back had hit somewhere vital? What if the thug had dragged his knife deep into my throat and all those Iron Guards and Mercenaries weren't there to stop him? What if that chair or that ... gods forbid, woman... hit me the right way when a Bringer flung them at me? What if Ainsley wasn't there to catch me when I fell off that balcony? What if... Estaban failed to jump into action? What if... the people I loved, didn't come home?
Should I be ashamed of these thoughts that wake me at night? I don't think so. For each of them remind me how precious life is. How precious the conviction of our family, friends, and our lovers are. It reminds me of how I am not alone, even if in the present physical I am. No. I am not ashamed. For these memories remind me of each and every person who has touched my life. With bad, there is always a balance of good and the good is that, my life is so much fuller for it.
Speaking of bad and the returning of good, my mind turns back to hearing Limerance's words spoken through his chosen, his Archlector. It is my hopes that when I write them, I will further remember them and live by these words. Here's what I recall most:
---
Like all things worth doing, though, it will take effort. As they say, nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight- and the love of family is something worth fighting for.
Strength of heart, of faith, of love can lead to as much greatness as strength of arms. Do not be ashamed of who and what you are, and who you love. If they think you a failure, the fault lies with them, not with you- for who would wish upon their own family the joyless life of following a path that is not your own? Do not think yourself a failure. You are who you are- and no one else can be who you are. Embrace your path with an open heart, let your love light the way, and you will *soar*.
Love is not an obligation, nor is it a chain. That we may love someone does not mean that they must, in turn, love us in the same way. And if you are to be loved, let yourself be loved for who you are- not for what someone else wants you to be. If you change yourself so that another may love you... what kind of love is that? If they love what you forced yourself to be, not who you truly are, then do they really love you, or just the image you presented? It is a sure path to misery, and I would not wish that upon anyone.
There is another love that many people forget, but it is an important one: it is the love of the self. You must love yourself. If you cannot look at yourself and love the person you are, then how could you hope others would love that person too? And if they do love that person, do they really love *you*? Love yourself, Aiden. Be the man you are meant to be, in your heart. With Limerance's grace, your family will love that person too- they will see what you see, the beauty and wonder of a life lived true to one's own self. But even if they do not- if they cannot see past their selfishness and expectations... love yourself regardless. Because your love for them is not an obligation, and trying to live as if it was, will bring you misery. It will not be easy, but you are not alone.
---
Those were words I needed to hear, the good I needed to hear. I needed to write anew to believe in them, and needed to embrace them. I wanted very much to be a private man, to keep my thoughts to myself, for some will certainly ruffle feathers. Then I remembered, it is my truth, these words. These are my reflections, drawn from my experiences.
I have shared and lived through horrible experiences with all of you, experiences I never wanted or sought. Yes, these experiences changed me, how could they not? I saw. I came to the city for the love of my brother, to help him find himself again when he had locked himself away in grief. I remained in the city not of my own will once he rose up again, instead I remained for the will of circumstance, and after the siege, I remain because of love. Love for my family, my friends, and importantly, for love for someone I have cherished from the first moment he tolerated me falling asleep on him.
The bad led me to the good. Without all that bad, I wouldn't have the good. I would still be in Bastion, living a quiet life, hidden amongst the mews and the tangles of the forest. I would not have met all my friends, nor seen the valor of my family, nor, met my first love. There's so much good, if you can manage the bad. For both in equal are a part of our lives.
So I say this, for I hear many rumors and feel that many of you believe in truths that no longer remain.
I love my brother. My journal calling him out was a misunderstanding and one that was written when I had a night of Crow's Rum to thank. I have not touched the stuff since - very good though, if you need to get drunk fast, that's the stuff. In any case. I submitted my apologies to my brother. Our challenge ahead will be between us, to learn and understand who've we've become, who we are now. That we are different people, changed by what we've experienced. We are brothers and brothers, quarrel. If people tell you that brothers don't fight, they lie. Hurts will pass. New understandings will form. Love has always been there.
Then, there is the great need for people to know my business of love and sharing my heart. So I will reveal it so that I may no longer be of subject of whispers and campaigns of rumors. What you may have heard is true. I am with Silas Whitehawk, we became something more than friends sometime after the siege. Be happy for us, for it is a rare thing to be accepted fully and utterly by a fellow human. I've only known animals to love unconditionally. Silas changed my way of thinking in that regard. He's never asked anything of me, shares everything with me, and we're happy - he makes me happy. Was it meant to be kept secret? No. It was never secret, we never denied it, perhaps I may have indicated that a certain book that made us into fictional characters, which isn't the same thing as denying it, for that book isn't truthful but a work of imagination, clearly. I'm no soldier.
What I am is a private man and I told my close friends when it came time for them to know, for I suspected they already knew or were eager to ask. I didn't tell my siblings at the time because we weren't very close, not in the same way that my friends are close, which is why I reacted the way I did in my previous journal despite the liquor. I was upset that I felt so disconnected from family. That is something I may very well work on, if they choose to do the same.
I am content with the good and the bad in my life, though there is much less the latter. I have so much to be grateful for and so much to give back to those around me and those in my life. The menagerie is just one way I hope to give back for all the good in my life. I hope to find more ways, soon. I know who I am now and what I'm capable of. It's time I find out how far I can go and how I can help the Arvum, or more simply, those who come into my life.
I am Aiden Grayson: bird geek animal enthusiast who enjoys tea, doesn't eat meat, likes yellow silk, steel-gray pants, and hugs a plush polar bear... and treasures a glass parrot and a metal dove! There's a lot more to me, for now...
...I am happy with that.
Written By Alexis
June 4, 2017, 3:29 a.m.(8/3/1006 AR)
I've been wracking my mind some, what to write about the night in the Valardin Hall. I'm sure the Black Reflections contain some about it already, but I shan't speculate too hard on that.
Already, I've been thanked for my efforts. And that's flattering. Once the foe revealed itself, I didn't do much, really - I stood with Princess Alis, and I got a chance to wield Wyrmstooth for real, for the first time.
I'm pleased to report that the old lady still performs admirably.
I'm also pleased to report that Princess Alis has married one of the finest bowmen in Arvum.
There were a number of others present, and their contributions helped make a difference. I am grateful to them. Princess Sasha and Prince Valerion Valardin. Marquis Marius and Lady Eirlys Greenmarch, Lady Charlaine Blanchard. They all played a vital role in defeating the enemy that hid within the hall.
Already, I've been thanked for my efforts. And that's flattering. Once the foe revealed itself, I didn't do much, really - I stood with Princess Alis, and I got a chance to wield Wyrmstooth for real, for the first time.
I'm pleased to report that the old lady still performs admirably.
I'm also pleased to report that Princess Alis has married one of the finest bowmen in Arvum.
There were a number of others present, and their contributions helped make a difference. I am grateful to them. Princess Sasha and Prince Valerion Valardin. Marquis Marius and Lady Eirlys Greenmarch, Lady Charlaine Blanchard. They all played a vital role in defeating the enemy that hid within the hall.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.