Written By Anabelle
Feb. 19, 2017, 1:20 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Elrych
It seems so odd. To think not that long ago we were all back home, and I remember you training with the other Knights. I remember you flattening that one with his head in the clouds, the arc of your waster as it rang off the helmet like a dead knell. And then he kinda flopped over with a clatter, and it took nearly three minutes to get him back on his feet.
And now? Now you're asking if you can pursue a Lady. Literally, a Lady. You've grown, and I'm proud of you for it.
And now? Now you're asking if you can pursue a Lady. Literally, a Lady. You've grown, and I'm proud of you for it.
Written By Dominic
Feb. 19, 2017, 1:14 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
I met with Khanne and Rowan to speak about the Spirit Walkers. Lord Rowan belongs to Greenmarch, a house I was not too familiar with until after that day. Lady Khanne is a daughter of Halfshav. Halfshav shamans have this very interesting philosophy of which I learned about long ago in my life, unaware that it originated from the Lady's house. The Halfshav believe that there are many truths, each belonging to an individual. That means they are open to external ideas and if they agree with them they adopt them without abandonding their own tradition. It is a very comfortable way of thinking, an ancient way that feels progressive and ahead of its time.
Written By Jael
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:52 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Percephon
Always enjoyable, with an excellent sense of humor. And yet I think there's something much deeper beneath all of that as well. Easy to talk to, even if I wonder if you're hearing far more than I'm saying.
Written By Orazio
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:40 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
To the Faithful Reader:
It is difficult to find the right words to express certain things about faith, and devotion to the Pantheon. Understand that when I speak, I come from the perspective of a man who gave up a noble title, and all hope of marriage to advance my family's needs, or children to raise and love as my own. A man who has served the gods for over twenty years, and has seen many come to, and leave, the devotion of the Faith. I do not regret this sacrifice. I did what my heart led me to do, and I do not condemn others for not following my footsteps. Duty to one's family, to one's name, is important. One serves Limerance as well in a marriage, as a parent, or a stalwart vassal or liege, as one does a priest. We are all called to our paths.
However, it disturbs me - offends me, if I must be honest - to see the gods approached as a means to an end, rather than as those who we follow in faith and trust. To see the blessings offered not as gifts to be humbly accepted and celebrated, but as tools to be used, mere mechanics to be followed simply for the effects that they might have. To see the Faith mocked and scorned with one hand, its authority disdained, while blessings are pleaded for with the other. More, to see people turn to any tradition that might give them the effects that they seek - caring not whether it is the Faith of the Pantheon, or shamanism. I wonder if the shamans feel any of the same concern that I do, to see so many of the nobility turn to talk of spirits and old gods not because they have any desire to worship or respect those traditions, but because those things might be useful. Because it is not faith that motivates such demands, but desire for power. Ah, but I know some will say, power is needed. We face a dire threat, one with power of its own in warriors and other resources. We must use every available resource to its fullest extent, or we shall lose.
I say, in return, that the gods of the Pantheon are not a resource to be used. Prayer is not simply mouthing the right words, making the right gestures, and getting the effect that you asked for in return. It had been my hope, as times began to grow dark, that we might see a revitalization of worship, a return to faith for those who had so long simply paid tithe, attended the occasional service, and mouthed the gods names at the right times. Instead, we are in danger of moving from apathy to idolatry, a desire to use the gods through the trappings of the Faith without asking of the gods, "What is your desire for me? What can I do to show you my devotion?"
But, Father, I may hear someone say, does this mean it is an offense to ask for the blessings of the gods? To ask for lands to be consecrated, the sick to be healed, and to pray for miracles? Of course not. The Faith has always provided blessings to the faithful. We have always consecrated lands and made them holy. We have always asked for the sick to be blessed by Lagoma...and then we have dispatched Mercies to do the work with our own hands, as well. The Faith has never ceased in these activities, even if they have gone unregarded and unremarked when the perceived 'need' is not as great. I only ask that before one asks a favor of the gods, one also asks, "What would the gods have of me?" and commits to seeing that through, whether the gods choose to grant your request or not.
It is difficult to find the right words to express certain things about faith, and devotion to the Pantheon. Understand that when I speak, I come from the perspective of a man who gave up a noble title, and all hope of marriage to advance my family's needs, or children to raise and love as my own. A man who has served the gods for over twenty years, and has seen many come to, and leave, the devotion of the Faith. I do not regret this sacrifice. I did what my heart led me to do, and I do not condemn others for not following my footsteps. Duty to one's family, to one's name, is important. One serves Limerance as well in a marriage, as a parent, or a stalwart vassal or liege, as one does a priest. We are all called to our paths.
However, it disturbs me - offends me, if I must be honest - to see the gods approached as a means to an end, rather than as those who we follow in faith and trust. To see the blessings offered not as gifts to be humbly accepted and celebrated, but as tools to be used, mere mechanics to be followed simply for the effects that they might have. To see the Faith mocked and scorned with one hand, its authority disdained, while blessings are pleaded for with the other. More, to see people turn to any tradition that might give them the effects that they seek - caring not whether it is the Faith of the Pantheon, or shamanism. I wonder if the shamans feel any of the same concern that I do, to see so many of the nobility turn to talk of spirits and old gods not because they have any desire to worship or respect those traditions, but because those things might be useful. Because it is not faith that motivates such demands, but desire for power. Ah, but I know some will say, power is needed. We face a dire threat, one with power of its own in warriors and other resources. We must use every available resource to its fullest extent, or we shall lose.
I say, in return, that the gods of the Pantheon are not a resource to be used. Prayer is not simply mouthing the right words, making the right gestures, and getting the effect that you asked for in return. It had been my hope, as times began to grow dark, that we might see a revitalization of worship, a return to faith for those who had so long simply paid tithe, attended the occasional service, and mouthed the gods names at the right times. Instead, we are in danger of moving from apathy to idolatry, a desire to use the gods through the trappings of the Faith without asking of the gods, "What is your desire for me? What can I do to show you my devotion?"
But, Father, I may hear someone say, does this mean it is an offense to ask for the blessings of the gods? To ask for lands to be consecrated, the sick to be healed, and to pray for miracles? Of course not. The Faith has always provided blessings to the faithful. We have always consecrated lands and made them holy. We have always asked for the sick to be blessed by Lagoma...and then we have dispatched Mercies to do the work with our own hands, as well. The Faith has never ceased in these activities, even if they have gone unregarded and unremarked when the perceived 'need' is not as great. I only ask that before one asks a favor of the gods, one also asks, "What would the gods have of me?" and commits to seeing that through, whether the gods choose to grant your request or not.
Written By Cicero
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:24 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
a gift delivered
cloth of silk lends gravitas
perhaps less than thrilled
cloth of silk lends gravitas
perhaps less than thrilled
Written By Luca
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:23 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Another day, another hangover. You know it's fucking bad when _I_ recognize that I'm drinking too much. I need to find a way to heal before this despondency rots me away from the inside out and leads me to a messy end. I need a challenge. Maybe killing Brand will be enough, though I doubt it.
Written By Elrych
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:13 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
I was late to Dinner! With the Princess in our Chateau no less. I was still wearing my armors, running late as I was training some new recruits for the academy at Lyon's Redoubt. I didn't get to talk to them much. I don't think Eirlys' brother likes me. She came along, I was happy to see her. She stayed the night but the talk was worry some. I am not sure, given what both of us want, that we will be allowed to continue our relationship in an official capacity. THe good news is, My Leige and lovely mistresses of the Lyonesse have acomplished and gained permission for all they have worked so hard for. I must step up my game in order to match their ambition for the house in which I serve and hold so much to.
Written By Elrych
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:10 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
The Marquessa and Lady Anabelle are working tirelessly to gain favor amungst the higher class. We spoke to the Prince first who refered us to his sister and her... well Eirlys' brother. Cristoph the Duke of Laurent our Leige has differeing opinions on how we should strike the oncomming force. Princess Alis is expected for dinner. I wonder if Eirlys will be with them.
Written By Elrych
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:02 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
The first person in Arx to come right up to me, coverd from head to toe in dough despite your station. I think I might have loved you even in that moment. We come from the same life, the same people. The Woodsmen of old. I hope with all my heart that we can make what we started work. If it does not, it will be a cloudy and dark day and my heart will break into a thousand little pieces and I'm not sure anything could put them back together.
Written By Darrow
Feb. 19, 2017, 12:02 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Abbas
Amongst many of the Thrax, the one I have spent the most time in arms with - against actual foes, is Abbas Thrax. Our ships have berthed in the same docks, and our decks shared the same blood.
A comrade, and that is not something that I have ever granted anyone lightly.
I am dismayed to hear of his loss in Nadia Nightgold. Whatever the world may have thought of the Duchess, if she was a boon to my Prince, then her passing will be regretted.
I write this, knowing that more sorrow will come - the past battle is merely the barest harbinger of what will come. All of us will face loss - a familiar fare for me, but something that will be a bitter awakening for many in Arx. I take no joy in this - for there is little joy to be had in the world that I can find. I instead pray that others might keep their happiness - a shred of hope.
I have found little need - or stomach, for it.
A comrade, and that is not something that I have ever granted anyone lightly.
I am dismayed to hear of his loss in Nadia Nightgold. Whatever the world may have thought of the Duchess, if she was a boon to my Prince, then her passing will be regretted.
I write this, knowing that more sorrow will come - the past battle is merely the barest harbinger of what will come. All of us will face loss - a familiar fare for me, but something that will be a bitter awakening for many in Arx. I take no joy in this - for there is little joy to be had in the world that I can find. I instead pray that others might keep their happiness - a shred of hope.
I have found little need - or stomach, for it.
Written By Darrow
Feb. 19, 2017, 11:57 a.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
I have been training with the Baroness Kima Saik.
Her skill is unmatched that I have seen - and I am learning than there is more finesse to be found than battering pirates and Shav'arvani around wheat.
Bruises carry the weight of wisdom.
Her skill is unmatched that I have seen - and I am learning than there is more finesse to be found than battering pirates and Shav'arvani around wheat.
Bruises carry the weight of wisdom.
Written By Percephon
Feb. 19, 2017, 11:09 a.m.(12/14/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Zhayla
An energetic young woman with a good sense of humor. I had the luck to find her lost in the Archives, and again later at Festival hosted by the Deepwood House. She reflects well upon them I think, and her sword will no doubt be quite busy in the months to come. I look forward to future conversations with this one.
Written By Agnarr
Feb. 19, 2017, 8:57 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
More support's welcome, though might be harder to convince more, given that the last batch ended up in fivefold more pieces than they'd started with.
Written By Morrighan
Feb. 19, 2017, 8:18 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
I really love this woman. Each time I think she's outdone herself with her work, she goes and creates something that's beyond amazing. I envy her talent a little bit, but Spirits is she wondrous. My birthday gift is truly beautiful, thank you!
Written By Rowan
Feb. 19, 2017, 8:03 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Muiryn
More than the hunt, more than than the fight, more than giving our fallen to the roots, more than walking away from the old growth and not knowing if we'd ever see it standing the way we left it again... More than all the many challenges we've put behind us...How is it that simple words have been the hardest thing to overcome?
Written By Juliet
Feb. 19, 2017, 6:41 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Natalia
There's a pouch where I keep two rings. They have the same inscription. They represented happy memories. A time gone by.
In my wardrobe hangs dresses. Fine gifts. And yet my heart aches when I look at them.
I wish her the best. I hope she finds what she was looking for.
I wish I could share her triumphs and comfort her in her sorrows.
I miss the sister I had.
In my wardrobe hangs dresses. Fine gifts. And yet my heart aches when I look at them.
I wish her the best. I hope she finds what she was looking for.
I wish I could share her triumphs and comfort her in her sorrows.
I miss the sister I had.
Written By Orathy
Feb. 19, 2017, 5:29 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Haati
**Penmanship is horrid. Barely legible, spelling awful.*
Haati Wavehowler owna of Wearh Arms and Armor
Be a guy iz be workings with. Down te the earth aye. Be havin tings in commens.
Recommends ta enayone I will.
Haati Wavehowler owna of Wearh Arms and Armor
Be a guy iz be workings with. Down te the earth aye. Be havin tings in commens.
Recommends ta enayone I will.
Written By Calandra
Feb. 19, 2017, 5:11 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
I purchased a piano made by Sir Silas for Whisper House. I am very excited about that. I adore music and plan to play the piano all the time.
I have a harp too in rosewood with nightingales.
Maybe now is not the time to think of such things, but music helps to keep the darkness at bay.
So maybe it is the perfect time.
Thank you Sir Silas - your work is so wonderful.
I have a harp too in rosewood with nightingales.
Maybe now is not the time to think of such things, but music helps to keep the darkness at bay.
So maybe it is the perfect time.
Thank you Sir Silas - your work is so wonderful.
Written By Natalia
Feb. 19, 2017, 5:08 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Up and down, up and down, up and down... such are my highs and lows of late. It seems nothing that is good doesn't come with something just as harsh to bring me low again, until I hover at the very depths of my soul.
But then? Then comes so much light and joy and happiness that I dare not even speak it aloud, lest it be taken from me. No.. this I will keep to myself and share with no other, save one. A secret, a gift, a treasure untold - eternity on the span of a fingertip.
But then? Then comes so much light and joy and happiness that I dare not even speak it aloud, lest it be taken from me. No.. this I will keep to myself and share with no other, save one. A secret, a gift, a treasure untold - eternity on the span of a fingertip.
Written By Natalia
Feb. 19, 2017, 4:59 a.m.(12/13/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowan
A chance meeting in a forest glade, intelligent conversation, pleasant company. Though he scared me enough that I shall have a bruised backside for at least a week, I am happy to realize that my own internal beliefs of Prodigals and those outside of the Compact have been wrong. I don't know what I expected, to be honest, but he was a welcome breath of fresh air.
I can only hope he feels the same, but a man that looks like that will be prying women off with a spear for many years to come, and so many do not wish friendship with a Princess that has little to offer but dances in a sunlight forest.
I can only hope he feels the same, but a man that looks like that will be prying women off with a spear for many years to come, and so many do not wish friendship with a Princess that has little to offer but dances in a sunlight forest.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.