Written By Dagon
May 28, 2017, 11:43 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Valencia
A transplanted Velenosa turned Redrain Princess turned widow turned gaming-house owner and roving socialite. We've had a few chance run-ins at her place of business and she strikes me as an interesting sort... though she is still *very* southern, whatever her fealty. Her and her countrywomen have a way about them, and there is never any hiding it. Not that they hide, so much as revel.
Written By Mae
May 28, 2017, 11:39 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
*Tacked up, in lieu of actual words, is a pencil sketch. It appears to be of a woman, her skin fair, her eyes fair, her hair fair, and she's looking off and away, distracted. The face fills almost the full page, and it is clear the artist has paid particular attention to capturing details, as lifelike as possible. Were the woman in question not obviously identified by the artist's signature - 'mae' appears in lower case letters in the bottom left corner of the page - there is a stray ribbon cascading down and between those blonde locks.*
Written By Ilvin
May 28, 2017, 11:38 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Ahh, sweet Limerance, what a week it's been. Has it really been so short a time since I returned to great Arx, after being trapped beyond its walls during the siege? So much has happened since then, and it feels like it could not possibly have been so little time. It's one of the great mysteries, truly, how when we have little to do, a day seems like a week, and yet when we are busy, a week goes by in the span of no time at all, and we find that there's just never enough time for all we would like to do. Still, now that I have a moment or two to myself, finally, I will put quill to parchment and try and make some sense of my thoughts.
First, and foremost: the Devotions have done a wonderful job caring for the spiritual and emotional well-being of our people here in Arx, even without me to guide them. I thank sweet Limerance's guidance as much as their own diligence in keeping to the tenets of our faith and always keeping their hearts open to all that need it. I am proud of them, of all of them, and what they've achieved. And I will strive to be worthy, in their eyes and in Limerance's, of serving as their Archlector for as long as I am able.
The other Archlectors have received me with kindness and joy, which is a sweet relief, for I had feared they would hold my absence during the siege against me. I had no reason to fear- they are loyal servants of the Pantheon, and they embody the best in all of us. I am honored to serve beside them- even the new ones that I had no idea would come to join us when I originally left Arx! Of all the surprises, they have been the best one.
The people of Arx have been equally kind- and they have humbled me in so many ways since my return, both in showing their own ways of spreading Limerance's loving light among their fellows, and in their trust and patience with me, and seeking me out to help soothe the pain and worry in their hearts. I have been awed by the love and fidelity shown in these scant few days by citizens of all kinds, from the humblest shopkeep and herbalist, to the fiercest Knights, and the most noble of lords and princes. Truly, Arx is blessed to have such people within its grand walls- and as long as such light lives in the hearts of its people, Arx will never fall to the Abyss.
Ahh, the Abyss. So much pain and loss it has brought, and so much heroism and compassion wrung out from broken hearts. In its darkness, never has a people's light shone so brightly... and I fear our battle against the dark is far, far from over. One threat defeated, but so many more lie in wait. Limerance, I pray to you, oh sweet and beloved lord, make me strong enough to be a light that guides the paths of our faithful to the place where they too can shine with the holy flame of your love. Let me be the warmth they need when the night is coldest, and let them spread that warmth to all their fellows, so that no darkness, no cold, can every touch them.
Ah, but I've blathered on long enough- and I hear one of the Devotions coming, with another request for my time, so I will draw this to a close. There is much to do.
First, and foremost: the Devotions have done a wonderful job caring for the spiritual and emotional well-being of our people here in Arx, even without me to guide them. I thank sweet Limerance's guidance as much as their own diligence in keeping to the tenets of our faith and always keeping their hearts open to all that need it. I am proud of them, of all of them, and what they've achieved. And I will strive to be worthy, in their eyes and in Limerance's, of serving as their Archlector for as long as I am able.
The other Archlectors have received me with kindness and joy, which is a sweet relief, for I had feared they would hold my absence during the siege against me. I had no reason to fear- they are loyal servants of the Pantheon, and they embody the best in all of us. I am honored to serve beside them- even the new ones that I had no idea would come to join us when I originally left Arx! Of all the surprises, they have been the best one.
The people of Arx have been equally kind- and they have humbled me in so many ways since my return, both in showing their own ways of spreading Limerance's loving light among their fellows, and in their trust and patience with me, and seeking me out to help soothe the pain and worry in their hearts. I have been awed by the love and fidelity shown in these scant few days by citizens of all kinds, from the humblest shopkeep and herbalist, to the fiercest Knights, and the most noble of lords and princes. Truly, Arx is blessed to have such people within its grand walls- and as long as such light lives in the hearts of its people, Arx will never fall to the Abyss.
Ahh, the Abyss. So much pain and loss it has brought, and so much heroism and compassion wrung out from broken hearts. In its darkness, never has a people's light shone so brightly... and I fear our battle against the dark is far, far from over. One threat defeated, but so many more lie in wait. Limerance, I pray to you, oh sweet and beloved lord, make me strong enough to be a light that guides the paths of our faithful to the place where they too can shine with the holy flame of your love. Let me be the warmth they need when the night is coldest, and let them spread that warmth to all their fellows, so that no darkness, no cold, can every touch them.
Ah, but I've blathered on long enough- and I hear one of the Devotions coming, with another request for my time, so I will draw this to a close. There is much to do.
Written By Fergus
May 28, 2017, 11:38 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
This one is just full of surprises. She's good fun. Never mind being one hell of a teacher. Took me through some kind of fucking contraption that I'm pretty sure is either a torture device, or belongs in some Lycene's sex dungeon. Or both.
Whatever the fuck it is, sure works good. Gave me a good workout, and she's got a good head on her shoulders when it comes to understanding just it means to being Sword. The kind weight involved in the title.
I owe her a drink. And a couple of stories.
Whatever the fuck it is, sure works good. Gave me a good workout, and she's got a good head on her shoulders when it comes to understanding just it means to being Sword. The kind weight involved in the title.
I owe her a drink. And a couple of stories.
Written By Sparte
May 28, 2017, 11:38 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Two medals. I just didn't even know what to expect, but two was something else. I can honestly say I feel like I earned them as well, though that isn't very modest feeling to write. Yet receiving the medals was humbling. I couldn't help but think about those people I patrol past in the hall of heroes. People whose names earned a special recognition, who will be remembered forever. I'm not that. Though, there also isn't a Crownsworn section to the Hall of Heroes. Maybe I should think about that.
Written By Niccolo
May 28, 2017, 11:37 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
Whenever I meet with Princess Donella I'm reminded of how sincere she is in her dealings, how gentle and direct she can me. It's refreshing, really, and quite different to dealing with most politicians in Arx or Lenosia even. Sometimes I miss the simplicity of leading Lenosia's troops against the shavs, but meetings with Donella can feel as simple as that, and are far more pleasant.
Written By Harlan
May 28, 2017, 11:37 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
How long has it been since I've been away from away from one home and the other? Entirely too long, by my estimation. Fortunately I've gained a spot in an expedition with the Explorers alongside my dear cousin, Killian. Hopefully it goes well enough that I can join others in the future without causing anyone too much distress.
Written By Armel
May 28, 2017, 11:34 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Mathias
Mathias Coaldust came to me a half-broken man, having lost his family and everything he held dear in this life. He angry, bitter, but filled with a desire to /do/ something about it.
He was driven to excel in everything he did, and astonished me often with his martial skill, his wit, and his simple, blunt wisdom about life. He had a dark past, but a bright future, and I was proud to call him my brother-in-arms. When he stated that he wanted more than a sellsword's life, I was overjoyed. Not because of any fault with the sellsword way (they serve their purpose, as do we all) but because he wanted to become Godsworn. He wanted to devote his life to a cause so much greater than all of us.
If he had chosen a different path? He might still be alive. Or he might not have been. The Knights are an Order a thousand years old, with a martial tradition and ideal second to /none/, and any man who questions that is free to speak it to my face. And Mathias Coaldust? Represented that ideal we strive for. That no matter your past, you can help decide your own future until the moment of your last breath, using those moments to shield the innocent, the healer, and the pilgrim.
I do not know how you died, Mathias, save that you died fighting. For us. For the Compact. For the Gods. I could not be more proud of you, and know that Death will carry you now to your just reward.
He was driven to excel in everything he did, and astonished me often with his martial skill, his wit, and his simple, blunt wisdom about life. He had a dark past, but a bright future, and I was proud to call him my brother-in-arms. When he stated that he wanted more than a sellsword's life, I was overjoyed. Not because of any fault with the sellsword way (they serve their purpose, as do we all) but because he wanted to become Godsworn. He wanted to devote his life to a cause so much greater than all of us.
If he had chosen a different path? He might still be alive. Or he might not have been. The Knights are an Order a thousand years old, with a martial tradition and ideal second to /none/, and any man who questions that is free to speak it to my face. And Mathias Coaldust? Represented that ideal we strive for. That no matter your past, you can help decide your own future until the moment of your last breath, using those moments to shield the innocent, the healer, and the pilgrim.
I do not know how you died, Mathias, save that you died fighting. For us. For the Compact. For the Gods. I could not be more proud of you, and know that Death will carry you now to your just reward.
Written By Niccolo
May 28, 2017, 11:33 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Dominic
I met Prince Dominic partially as the request of Princess Donella and partially because well, he offered a very generous gift to House Velenosa. He is serious, polite and he seems to be earnest in his intentions to befriend our House. I will know him better, perhaps there is an ally to find in him.
Written By Harlan
May 28, 2017, 11:31 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Congratulations are in order for our dear Cara and her Laric on their baby girls. Gods willing our children will one day play together in the Gray Forest!
Written By Darrow
May 28, 2017, 11:26 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ariel
Ariel is to be married.
To a Marquis...a strong match.
To a Marquis...a strong match.
Written By Blossom
May 28, 2017, 11:25 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Reese
<This journal entry is just a doodle of a knight on a horse with ribbons flowing behind her.>
Written By Tobias
May 28, 2017, 11:24 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Mathias
He was once a promising recruit for the Crimson Blades. When we did our initiation with him, he passed all the tests with excellence, so I was looking forward to teaching him the basics of our organization and see him rise in the ranks.
Then his family was murdered during the Boroughs rioting, and he left us shortly after. Understandable; he probably felt lost after that, and he joined us for the money.
When I first heard he had joined the Knights, I was happy he had found direction... but now I can't help but think that if I had tried to convince him to give us another chance, he might still be alive.
I find peace in the fact that he chose his fate, and probably fell defending travelers as the Knights of Solace mean to do. We should all be so lucky that we die fighting for our ideals.
Then his family was murdered during the Boroughs rioting, and he left us shortly after. Understandable; he probably felt lost after that, and he joined us for the money.
When I first heard he had joined the Knights, I was happy he had found direction... but now I can't help but think that if I had tried to convince him to give us another chance, he might still be alive.
I find peace in the fact that he chose his fate, and probably fell defending travelers as the Knights of Solace mean to do. We should all be so lucky that we die fighting for our ideals.
Written By Thena
May 28, 2017, 11:20 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Just returned from a trade run to Nilanza with Magpie. I enjoyed it more than I thought possible. I badly needed some time away from the city to get my thoughts in order. I think Petrae would say that the world has been too much with me of late.
Perhaps if I live past accomplishing what I wish to accomplish I might consider a life at sea. In the middle of the ocean you can see what's coming for you.
Perhaps if I live past accomplishing what I wish to accomplish I might consider a life at sea. In the middle of the ocean you can see what's coming for you.
Written By Blossom
May 28, 2017, 11:19 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Dearest Mother,
The city is so big and exciting and full of people! I even met a few knights!
I painted the Cathedral yesterday. It's still drying, but I'm really proud of it. I hung it in Mailys and Mirari's shop, maybe someone will buy it. I wish you could see it.
<a quickly drawn cherry blossom is used to sign the letter>
The city is so big and exciting and full of people! I even met a few knights!
I painted the Cathedral yesterday. It's still drying, but I'm really proud of it. I hung it in Mailys and Mirari's shop, maybe someone will buy it. I wish you could see it.
<a quickly drawn cherry blossom is used to sign the letter>
Written By Darrow
May 28, 2017, 11:18 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
With my cousin Maximilian gone, I feel even more restless.
Now that there are no more Shav'arvani within beating distance, I lack for things to do.
Now that there are no more Shav'arvani within beating distance, I lack for things to do.
Written By Mira
May 28, 2017, 11:16 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Busy busy busy. Finally, some actual work is starting to come through! At this rate, I may ask the King's caretakers whether or not they need some assistance with the Royal Audit.
Written By Stefano
May 28, 2017, 11:15 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Leta
Dame Leta Broadbent is a newly knighted vassal sworn to House Velenosa. We met in the training center and she did a number on me. So, it seems like she's probably a good addition to Velenosa's cadre of knights! She's a fine fighter - sturdy and well-built, confident, good footwork. She's been tasked with learning more about the Lyceum and I've offered my help should she take me up on it.
Written By Audric
May 28, 2017, 11:13 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
Audric's Third Rule of Sellswording: While misdirection and manipulation are all well and good, it's important to remember that sometimes you get everything you want just by the asking. I was reminded of this twice this week! Even as seasoned a schemer as I sometimes needs to remember to just be straightforward.
Written By Dagon
May 28, 2017, 11:13 p.m.(7/18/1006 AR)
This shall be my first entry since returning to the city in the wake of the siege and my journey north to visit the Tyde isles.
The first word that reached me when I stepped from the boat and made my way to Tyde Tower was that my wife had given birth to a daughter. I am a father now, and while as a young man I sometimes scoffed at the notions that things like marriage or parenthood would so fundamentally change one's view in the world, I do see that it was childish ignorance to think as such. While it's silly to say such a single event has calmed or matured me, I do feel some change. Margot plans to wait a year to name her, so I must hold myself from some feelings of celebration, from investing too much, yet I find myself looking forward to that day every bit as much as I looked forward to my now-lost inheritance as a younger man. A shift in perspective.
I was fortunate to see Donella as well, soon after I returned, and she told me something that has resonated since: my father raised me like a classic knight, not a reaver, but it was a role I could never fully embrace. Perhaps now I can. The idea of living a simpler life focused to honor and duty alone, not to politics as Victus rules the house and my wife our duchy. To travel land and sea with Reafian in hand. It... has a great appeal. Though I will never be free of how I was raised, I do think I have the benefit of something of a fresh start here, and will do my best taking it.
The first word that reached me when I stepped from the boat and made my way to Tyde Tower was that my wife had given birth to a daughter. I am a father now, and while as a young man I sometimes scoffed at the notions that things like marriage or parenthood would so fundamentally change one's view in the world, I do see that it was childish ignorance to think as such. While it's silly to say such a single event has calmed or matured me, I do feel some change. Margot plans to wait a year to name her, so I must hold myself from some feelings of celebration, from investing too much, yet I find myself looking forward to that day every bit as much as I looked forward to my now-lost inheritance as a younger man. A shift in perspective.
I was fortunate to see Donella as well, soon after I returned, and she told me something that has resonated since: my father raised me like a classic knight, not a reaver, but it was a role I could never fully embrace. Perhaps now I can. The idea of living a simpler life focused to honor and duty alone, not to politics as Victus rules the house and my wife our duchy. To travel land and sea with Reafian in hand. It... has a great appeal. Though I will never be free of how I was raised, I do think I have the benefit of something of a fresh start here, and will do my best taking it.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.