Written By Khanne
May 13, 2017, 11:10 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
I was under strict orders to rest for a few days, so I would not pop my stitches (for what, the fourth time?) or irritate my healing throat. No exertion, no talking. My hand is hurting from writing so much (and yet, here I sit, writing again). I was rather amazed at just how productive I managed to be during this time. However, after the actual bed rest portion of my recuperation was over, I took the opportunity to see to some spiritual and personal needs.
Halfshav has paid the pensions of all those lost in the siege to their families. Nothing will help them miss their loved ones any less, but I wanted to ensure that the families were at least well cared for, and most of all, that they knew the sacrifice of their loves one (and their own) in the name of defeating Brand and his army was recognized and appreciated. Too often those left behind can be easily forgotten, the lost themselves a distant memory from the minds of those not close to them. I wanted to make sure that this would not happen. I have also offered an opportunity to those who show signs of being blessed by the Spirits (either as Spirit Touched or shaman) to become apprentices to myself, and other talented shamans in Whitehold. I have asked that any who show promise in other areas as well are given opportunity to train with experts in those fields. While cooped up in the ward though, I also held a private little ritual of remembrance in the courtyard.
Lighting a small fire, I sat on the ground before it with the list of all the names of those Halfshav has lost. The list is entirely too long. I grieve for each of the men and women who gave so everything in order for us to continue to live life was we know it. I wrote each name on a parchment, one by one, and tore it into a small strip. Closing my eyes, I said blessing for each soul and set the strip of paper on fire, sprinkling some sage, rosemary, and thyme over the flames, watching the smoke swirl up into the air. Sage was offered to the Spirits and ancestors, a symbol of wisdom and the immortal soul - that it may pass one day into new life, rosemary in remembrance of each person and all they shared with their loved ones, and thyme to represent the courage and strength they showed in life and in their sacrifice.
I felt a sense of peace after they were all remembered. It took days to accomplish. It is my hope that their souls are at rest and that their families hold a small sense of that peace in their hearts as well. May we never forget them, and forever keep their memories alive. To the last.
Halfshav has paid the pensions of all those lost in the siege to their families. Nothing will help them miss their loved ones any less, but I wanted to ensure that the families were at least well cared for, and most of all, that they knew the sacrifice of their loves one (and their own) in the name of defeating Brand and his army was recognized and appreciated. Too often those left behind can be easily forgotten, the lost themselves a distant memory from the minds of those not close to them. I wanted to make sure that this would not happen. I have also offered an opportunity to those who show signs of being blessed by the Spirits (either as Spirit Touched or shaman) to become apprentices to myself, and other talented shamans in Whitehold. I have asked that any who show promise in other areas as well are given opportunity to train with experts in those fields. While cooped up in the ward though, I also held a private little ritual of remembrance in the courtyard.
Lighting a small fire, I sat on the ground before it with the list of all the names of those Halfshav has lost. The list is entirely too long. I grieve for each of the men and women who gave so everything in order for us to continue to live life was we know it. I wrote each name on a parchment, one by one, and tore it into a small strip. Closing my eyes, I said blessing for each soul and set the strip of paper on fire, sprinkling some sage, rosemary, and thyme over the flames, watching the smoke swirl up into the air. Sage was offered to the Spirits and ancestors, a symbol of wisdom and the immortal soul - that it may pass one day into new life, rosemary in remembrance of each person and all they shared with their loved ones, and thyme to represent the courage and strength they showed in life and in their sacrifice.
I felt a sense of peace after they were all remembered. It took days to accomplish. It is my hope that their souls are at rest and that their families hold a small sense of that peace in their hearts as well. May we never forget them, and forever keep their memories alive. To the last.
Written By Luca
May 13, 2017, 11:09 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
Does this mean I have to call you Father Hot Lips? Well, regardless, you'll make a perfect exemplar for the Queen as the new Archlector of Death, even as Father Alley Cat will be perfect for Choice. Congratulations to both of you beautiful men.
Written By Mirari
May 13, 2017, 10:20 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Mailys
Is Mailys a tactical sized Mirari. Or am I a dire sized Mailys?
Written By Thena
May 13, 2017, 9:40 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Magpie
My apologies, cousin. I thought you preferred hammocks.
Written By Branan
May 13, 2017, 9:07 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
More... Well. I cannot truthfully call this volume smut. It actually has... plot. And some history thrown in. But yet another pen name with dubious authenticity. Who names their child 'Malvolo Stoutrod'?
I mean, really.
I mean, really.
Written By Magpie
May 13, 2017, 9:01 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
Aureth... an archlector.
I just can't even wrap my head around it.
Hopefully I can fill the boots he left behind in the Grayhope family. We've already proven that I fit into his armor. And his shirt. And his bed is terribly comfortable but Thena snatched that up.
I noticed he cleaned out the liquor cabinet... well played, Aureth. Well played.
I just can't even wrap my head around it.
Hopefully I can fill the boots he left behind in the Grayhope family. We've already proven that I fit into his armor. And his shirt. And his bed is terribly comfortable but Thena snatched that up.
I noticed he cleaned out the liquor cabinet... well played, Aureth. Well played.
Written By Branan
May 13, 2017, 8:59 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
You told me to write.
I have not stopped since.
I have not stopped since.
Written By Branan
May 13, 2017, 8:53 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Sister Gisele speaks truth with a grace I can rarely muster.
Written By Niamh
May 13, 2017, 7:20 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Cassandra
There was friction between the Faith and my family in the past year, when it seemed Shamanism was going to be declared anathema. But that stopped and I've had some good meetings with members of the Pantheon lately. Archlector Cassandra is among them. Earnest, straightforward, and dedicated to her cause, I'm pleased that she was able to come talk about the Gold Order with me.
Written By Arianna
May 13, 2017, 6:14 a.m.(6/15/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Mirari
That moment when you realize you have been a total twat.
We live and we learn, there is no difference between me
and the next person. Title or no. One must earn the respect
they with others to treat them with and I am grateful
for the lesson in humility. We cannot grow unless we
learn from our mistakes, take responsibility for them and
move forward. Thank you for teaching me this and thank
you for the chance to start anew.
We live and we learn, there is no difference between me
and the next person. Title or no. One must earn the respect
they with others to treat them with and I am grateful
for the lesson in humility. We cannot grow unless we
learn from our mistakes, take responsibility for them and
move forward. Thank you for teaching me this and thank
you for the chance to start anew.
Written By Merek
May 12, 2017, 8:12 p.m.(6/14/1006 AR)
Slow week, work has been steady. Things are back to normal. I can't tell if the fact people have returned to their old ways is good or bad. Life goes on, and it will for an eternity hopefully. I'm weak, and I am tired. I believe so much, but why do I feel so lost after the siege? War changes everything. My Rose left this world long ago. Does the Queen know where you are, my darling? I'd give much to ask that she allow me one more chance to talk to you. There's nothing more precious than a soul. For when we leave behind these broken bodies, our life the price to pass the gates, that is what will remain. Cherish what you love in its time within the world, all who might read this, but remember that not all is really ever truly lost. Perhaps, once more, I over-think things. Well, I hope it helps someone in their time of need.
Written By Valery
May 12, 2017, 6:30 p.m.(6/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Asher
It's nice to find people that don't want to kill Boots and Chip, or feed them to someone else...
He seemed nice.
He seemed nice.
Written By Gisele
May 12, 2017, 5:36 p.m.(6/14/1006 AR)
From the Canticle of Vellichor:
Vellichor spoke, "I am the god of histories, and this shall not be the final chapter of the history of your world. This has cost me more than I hope you shall ever learn, but I ask for but little in return. Let the most studious amongst you take sacred vow to
forever guard the knowledge of the world, and allow all among you from the greatest to the least to chronicle their lives in journals so their knowledge may never be lost. Guard it well."
Vellichor sacrificed that we might continue on. It is by His express wish that all of us, no matter our station in life, capture our thoughts and deeds in ink, and so record our lives for those who come after. He did not say "write only of history" or "pen only the deepest of thoughts" or "never record bad poetry in my Archives". He said write. We, each of us, every Arvani, are duty-bound to do so.
It is not our place to judge or condemn the contributions of others. Every White Journal written, every Black Reflection, is a part of His chronicle and His deepest wish for us. In these Journals are the aspects of our Pantheon, from charitable Gild to loyal and loving Limerance, from honourable Gloria and even to the Thirteenth, who would have us embrace our flaws and weaknesses.
It is through Vellichor's grace and sacrifice that we honour the Pantheon on the page.
Vellichor spoke, "I am the god of histories, and this shall not be the final chapter of the history of your world. This has cost me more than I hope you shall ever learn, but I ask for but little in return. Let the most studious amongst you take sacred vow to
forever guard the knowledge of the world, and allow all among you from the greatest to the least to chronicle their lives in journals so their knowledge may never be lost. Guard it well."
Vellichor sacrificed that we might continue on. It is by His express wish that all of us, no matter our station in life, capture our thoughts and deeds in ink, and so record our lives for those who come after. He did not say "write only of history" or "pen only the deepest of thoughts" or "never record bad poetry in my Archives". He said write. We, each of us, every Arvani, are duty-bound to do so.
It is not our place to judge or condemn the contributions of others. Every White Journal written, every Black Reflection, is a part of His chronicle and His deepest wish for us. In these Journals are the aspects of our Pantheon, from charitable Gild to loyal and loving Limerance, from honourable Gloria and even to the Thirteenth, who would have us embrace our flaws and weaknesses.
It is through Vellichor's grace and sacrifice that we honour the Pantheon on the page.
Written By Joscelin
May 12, 2017, 4:10 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
Don't start putting on airs, Archlector. I've seen you naked.
Written By Joscelin
May 12, 2017, 4:09 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
It never fails.
Siege or rain or war or peacetime, since discovering my work the Princess Eleyna Velenosa has swept into my shop on the 13th of every month, an uncharacteristically pleased smile on her face (at least so I hear; they say she's icy to most but she's only been kind to me). She saunters to my bench if I'm working, or the counter if I'm working there, or if I have a client, she sits demurely on my couch, sips tea and looks through my book of ready-made designs.
When we're alone, she says the same thing:
"Mistress Arterius. Will you reconsider my offer of patronage? It would be such an honor."
And I reply with the same:
"Your highness, I am the Guildmaster; we have no patrons because that would lead many to speculate a bias. But there are many fine jewelers in the Guild, I'd be happy to set up an interview or two for you."
Then the woman flicks those blue eyes at me, like I've just said the most amusing thing ever, shakes her head and that smile grows like a creeping glacier.
"No, but thank you; you're the only jeweler I want on my retinue."
It's like a script in some tiny play, never deviates until she tells me 'no thank you', and then we speak of projects she'd like to complete with me, or the weather, or .... anything else that comes to play. And then, after another cup of tea, she bids me good day, that she'll see me next month, and heads out the door.
Today played out like the months before, though she seems more amused this time. Perhaps she thinks she's winning.
Siege or rain or war or peacetime, since discovering my work the Princess Eleyna Velenosa has swept into my shop on the 13th of every month, an uncharacteristically pleased smile on her face (at least so I hear; they say she's icy to most but she's only been kind to me). She saunters to my bench if I'm working, or the counter if I'm working there, or if I have a client, she sits demurely on my couch, sips tea and looks through my book of ready-made designs.
When we're alone, she says the same thing:
"Mistress Arterius. Will you reconsider my offer of patronage? It would be such an honor."
And I reply with the same:
"Your highness, I am the Guildmaster; we have no patrons because that would lead many to speculate a bias. But there are many fine jewelers in the Guild, I'd be happy to set up an interview or two for you."
Then the woman flicks those blue eyes at me, like I've just said the most amusing thing ever, shakes her head and that smile grows like a creeping glacier.
"No, but thank you; you're the only jeweler I want on my retinue."
It's like a script in some tiny play, never deviates until she tells me 'no thank you', and then we speak of projects she'd like to complete with me, or the weather, or .... anything else that comes to play. And then, after another cup of tea, she bids me good day, that she'll see me next month, and heads out the door.
Today played out like the months before, though she seems more amused this time. Perhaps she thinks she's winning.
Written By Artorius
May 12, 2017, 3:51 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Wow....so it's one of those days.
Not a bad one, but one that was full of surprises and a new path to walk. Today, Hadrian offered to lay upon my shoulders a heavy responsibility. It is my honor to be named as Captain of the Hawk Guard, or rather, a much less fancy term, captain of the guard. It is something new....as I am used to being but a silly soldier, throwing my body and life on the line for the sake of my home....I am glad I have found a cause to devote to.
Although the war is past, I will miss being on the front lines. In times of peace, it is time I turned my attention to home, to protect it. To make Southport a truly protected place. It's time I moved beyond my past, and looked to the future.
I accept this responsibility whole-heartedly. I'm proud to serve my family.
~ Neither by Fate or by Chance. ~
Not a bad one, but one that was full of surprises and a new path to walk. Today, Hadrian offered to lay upon my shoulders a heavy responsibility. It is my honor to be named as Captain of the Hawk Guard, or rather, a much less fancy term, captain of the guard. It is something new....as I am used to being but a silly soldier, throwing my body and life on the line for the sake of my home....I am glad I have found a cause to devote to.
Although the war is past, I will miss being on the front lines. In times of peace, it is time I turned my attention to home, to protect it. To make Southport a truly protected place. It's time I moved beyond my past, and looked to the future.
I accept this responsibility whole-heartedly. I'm proud to serve my family.
~ Neither by Fate or by Chance. ~
Written By Artorius
May 12, 2017, 3:21 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ophelia
Dear princess, when did you become such an avid huntress?
I went with the princess to do some hunting now that we had the freedom to go outside the walls again...it was nice getting fresh air away from the city for once. Felt like a small lifetime within the cage that was the walls. Turns out she is a most excellent shot. Afterwards, we checked out some of the markings on the wall from ages past.
I do hope to see my friend soon again. I do rather enjoy her company.
I went with the princess to do some hunting now that we had the freedom to go outside the walls again...it was nice getting fresh air away from the city for once. Felt like a small lifetime within the cage that was the walls. Turns out she is a most excellent shot. Afterwards, we checked out some of the markings on the wall from ages past.
I do hope to see my friend soon again. I do rather enjoy her company.
Written By Artorius
May 12, 2017, 3:10 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Karadoc
Life is turning anew in rather fun and unexpected ways.
Yesternight, I walked with the Saik Lord Karadoc and we talked for the day. Eventually he invited me to an auction event held by the Darkwaters. Initially, because I am not only a bad gambler, but also tend not to find such enjoyment in these matters. I was beyond happy to be so wrong. I didn't know how much fun these 'bidding wars' could be. What an absolute joy.
I even picked up a couple of trinkets and vouchers, perhaps one day to give them to a woman deserving of them, or to save them as memoirs for my daughter when she comes of age. Perhaps I shall use the vouchers to make gifts? or craft myself a new weapon....
Yesternight, I walked with the Saik Lord Karadoc and we talked for the day. Eventually he invited me to an auction event held by the Darkwaters. Initially, because I am not only a bad gambler, but also tend not to find such enjoyment in these matters. I was beyond happy to be so wrong. I didn't know how much fun these 'bidding wars' could be. What an absolute joy.
I even picked up a couple of trinkets and vouchers, perhaps one day to give them to a woman deserving of them, or to save them as memoirs for my daughter when she comes of age. Perhaps I shall use the vouchers to make gifts? or craft myself a new weapon....
Written By Dafne
May 12, 2017, 3:05 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
Having been acquainted with Archlector Aureth since the days I was wide-eyed and new to Arx, and he was telling fortunes for the nobility's amusement, I must note that he has always been very kind to me, and that he is about as spooky as a lapdog with a magnificent shiny coat that smiles too much.
(Do dogs smile? I don't know. I have a cat.)
So disappointing, I know. I love spooky.
(Do dogs smile? I don't know. I have a cat.)
So disappointing, I know. I love spooky.
Written By Ophelia
May 12, 2017, 2:28 p.m.(6/13/1006 AR)
I'm very happy to hear that brother Aleksei has been raised to Archlector of Skald. He's an exceptional priest in the limited time I've spent with him and has a gorgeous smile that could make a cloudy day just turn into sunshine.
Brother Aureth is spooky, so I think it's very appropriate he's been raised to Archlector of Death. I haven't spoken to him, because he's so creepy. I'll try to figure out a way to change that. Maybe we could think of something like a metallic cord with beautiful ornamentation for his robes, I'm thinking something like little skulls of platinum with neodymium chains and rubies. Creepy, but cute. Brother Aureth, if you do read journals, don't think too terribly of me thinking you're incredibly spooky. Honest, spooky is okay. It lends itself an air of mystery, and what girl doesn't like that?
I think we're very blessed to have a Dominus like Aldwin leading the Faith. He's an exceptional man that leads with a guiding hand, he reminds me much of a shepherd that watches over his flock and looks after the straying sheep just as much as those who follow him to greener pastures. An active leadership across the Faith is vital for our wellbeing, and all should support publicly the legates, arch lectors and priests across all the Pantheon. Through this, we nurture our souls. Hmm, I wonder if a Dominus is allowed to read black journals.
My uncle Niccolo and his beautiful wife Deva have been working very hard for the Lyceum as well as our allies. They are a strong foundation on which peace and prosperity for not just us but all people. I'm organizing a masque to happen in a few month's time (there's been SO many things happening lately) which should really showcase the dark beauty of the Lyceum and celebrate it with our friends.
I killed twenty birds yesterday. They're being delivered soon to people.
I had a very good introduction to the King's horseman, Tristan. He says he's mean, but I don't think he really is. I'm getting horse lessons from him, and I'll organize those to be on the days I go visit my beloved King. My prayers and thoughts go to King Alaric daily.
Oh, and I need to bug Luca. He needs to be out more with Reese.
OK, that's enough writing for today. There is a whole world out there to explore and I'm getting a cramp in my fingers from jotting all these thoughts down.
Brother Aureth is spooky, so I think it's very appropriate he's been raised to Archlector of Death. I haven't spoken to him, because he's so creepy. I'll try to figure out a way to change that. Maybe we could think of something like a metallic cord with beautiful ornamentation for his robes, I'm thinking something like little skulls of platinum with neodymium chains and rubies. Creepy, but cute. Brother Aureth, if you do read journals, don't think too terribly of me thinking you're incredibly spooky. Honest, spooky is okay. It lends itself an air of mystery, and what girl doesn't like that?
I think we're very blessed to have a Dominus like Aldwin leading the Faith. He's an exceptional man that leads with a guiding hand, he reminds me much of a shepherd that watches over his flock and looks after the straying sheep just as much as those who follow him to greener pastures. An active leadership across the Faith is vital for our wellbeing, and all should support publicly the legates, arch lectors and priests across all the Pantheon. Through this, we nurture our souls. Hmm, I wonder if a Dominus is allowed to read black journals.
My uncle Niccolo and his beautiful wife Deva have been working very hard for the Lyceum as well as our allies. They are a strong foundation on which peace and prosperity for not just us but all people. I'm organizing a masque to happen in a few month's time (there's been SO many things happening lately) which should really showcase the dark beauty of the Lyceum and celebrate it with our friends.
I killed twenty birds yesterday. They're being delivered soon to people.
I had a very good introduction to the King's horseman, Tristan. He says he's mean, but I don't think he really is. I'm getting horse lessons from him, and I'll organize those to be on the days I go visit my beloved King. My prayers and thoughts go to King Alaric daily.
Oh, and I need to bug Luca. He needs to be out more with Reese.
OK, that's enough writing for today. There is a whole world out there to explore and I'm getting a cramp in my fingers from jotting all these thoughts down.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.