Written By Dawn
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:56 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
I so rarely get the opportunity to compete and sad to say, I didn't perform to the best of my ability at Prince Edain's command competition. But even having the chance to do so was a joy. The opportunity to command the finest soldiers in Arvum (save, of course, for Grayson soldiers) is a rare treat not often enjoyed by those outside of the Oathlands. And to see the others who competed, and how they tackled the problem of getting across the finish line...
If and when it comes time for Arvum to face its enemies, our armies are in capable hands.
The winner has no doubt been recorded elsewhere but I'll add a note of congratulations to Lord Eos Saik for his victory. And to Duchess Nadia Nightgold as well, for her fine performance, and near win.
If and when it comes time for Arvum to face its enemies, our armies are in capable hands.
The winner has no doubt been recorded elsewhere but I'll add a note of congratulations to Lord Eos Saik for his victory. And to Duchess Nadia Nightgold as well, for her fine performance, and near win.
Written By Niccolo
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:51 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I've now had a chance to speak with the prince a number of times, some more private than others. So far, I find him to be a good man, honest man. I find his insights to carry weight, and be deserving of listening to. We're not very familiar, that seems to be more the case with my daughters, but it makes sense. Still, perhaps he and I will get a chance to get to know each other better.
Written By Dawn
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:46 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
I've never seen a shamanic ritual before. It was strange to my eyes but in the Northerners' worship, I saw the same faith and devotion we here in the Crownlands and the Oathlands give to our Pantheon. Just in... rather more visceral form.
I could have done without having swords drawn on the audience but one expects their caution is justified.
Hopefully Princess Freja is alright.
I could have done without having swords drawn on the audience but one expects their caution is justified.
Hopefully Princess Freja is alright.
Written By Victus
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:42 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
The woman's already fucking insufferable most of the time. I expect I'll be hearing about her fucking brother's win for a week now, and having to pay for the ale as I suffer through the process.
At least good ale makes up for most things.
At least good ale makes up for most things.
Written By Niccolo
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:42 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Sylvie
Lady Sylphie has an interesting sense of humor. Like me, she recently lost her spouse. Unlike me, it seems she's looking to get married sooner rather than later. I don't judge her for this, of course, we all have our needs and what we want out of life. She thought she had offended me, but truly, I took no offense from her jest. I don't think Her Grace did either.
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:40 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
Based on his opinion, clearly needs to be introduced to good whiskey.
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:39 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
Not only is my lady grace incarnate, but also delightful. And funny. I have to wonder, though. How in the hell did she wind up connected to Duke Niccolo Velenosa? I'm not presumptuous enough to ask, but definitely intrigued.
Written By Victus
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:36 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
So you gotta wonder.
As she stood there at the very fucking end of Valardin's so-called fucking command competition (when the majority of participants are women, and a Whisper among 'em, call this Thraxian a fucking skeptic), what was going on behind her pristine fucking facade as every last pair of eyes in whole stadium focused on her?
The unacknowledged bastard of Grayson, and sure as fuck getting judged on more than just whether she could bully around a crew of Valardin cunts. I was. Yeah, you were too. To try to win when the odds are stacked against you, or simply play it safe so you can at least say you accomplished something.
Making that decision, did it say something about what kind of leader she might be?
That she went for perfection.
But only found muddy failure?
Heh. Whatever it says, I think the fact I was getting drunk in the stands pre-fucking-cludes me from judging it too damn harshly. It was just a game, anyway, and she's just a fucking girl.
As she stood there at the very fucking end of Valardin's so-called fucking command competition (when the majority of participants are women, and a Whisper among 'em, call this Thraxian a fucking skeptic), what was going on behind her pristine fucking facade as every last pair of eyes in whole stadium focused on her?
The unacknowledged bastard of Grayson, and sure as fuck getting judged on more than just whether she could bully around a crew of Valardin cunts. I was. Yeah, you were too. To try to win when the odds are stacked against you, or simply play it safe so you can at least say you accomplished something.
Making that decision, did it say something about what kind of leader she might be?
That she went for perfection.
But only found muddy failure?
Heh. Whatever it says, I think the fact I was getting drunk in the stands pre-fucking-cludes me from judging it too damn harshly. It was just a game, anyway, and she's just a fucking girl.
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:33 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
The event at the stone grove was fascinating. And unnerving. I know the Shaman saw something when she looked out.
I don't know the Redrains, but I'd love to ask her what she saw because she looked... terrified. And I can't help but think, given how things are with the King, that it means something bad is coming.
For all of us.
I don't know the Redrains, but I'd love to ask her what she saw because she looked... terrified. And I can't help but think, given how things are with the King, that it means something bad is coming.
For all of us.
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:29 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Viktarkim
You ever meet someone and think that they definitely got the wrong first impression of you?
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:24 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
This man cusses as if the angels of profanity have blessed his tongue. I think he might have tried to seduce me. I definitely tried to seduce him. Neither of us succeeded.
I'm going to have to reach very deep in my bag of tricks if I'm going to win this game, I think.
I'm going to have to reach very deep in my bag of tricks if I'm going to win this game, I think.
Written By Ianthe
Oct. 2, 2016, 6:21 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Though I haven't a drop of it, I recognize class when I see it. Prince Edain Valardin was challenged to a duel on erroneous charges and he never lost his composure. I tried my best to deflect his challenger with humor and inquiries about his "jib", but it was entirely unneeded.
A stark reminder as to why those with noble blood are a cut above the likes of me: I would have stabbed anyone who talked to me like that in the leg with my boot knife.
A stark reminder as to why those with noble blood are a cut above the likes of me: I would have stabbed anyone who talked to me like that in the leg with my boot knife.
Written By Kima
Oct. 2, 2016, 5:39 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
To say nothing of the event itself, which was outside of the norm and quite fabulous for it, the competitors which took to the field surprised me somewhat. Some because of who, or what, they were, yet others because of their performance. I think we can all agree that Lady Aria Gilden's masterful show of skill gave everyone a run for their coin.
What pleased me best, however, was the competitions eventual winner. Oh, he tied with Lady Nadia Nightgold at first, and that proud woman is nothing to scoff at, but in the end my brother proved his mettle. Look upon us, Arx: we are the lions of the south.
What pleased me best, however, was the competitions eventual winner. Oh, he tied with Lady Nadia Nightgold at first, and that proud woman is nothing to scoff at, but in the end my brother proved his mettle. Look upon us, Arx: we are the lions of the south.
Written By Pietro
Oct. 2, 2016, 4:48 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
When I was a boy I used to dream of grand adventures. I suppose I always dream of grand adventures. They still quicken my heart. But whatever I expected from them, this one wasn't it.
The only thing that's right is that I come here with Vincere, following at his heel. He's Count of the March now, and the politics and intrigues of Arx open out before us like an unfamiliar network of roads, where I know he'll never ask for directions. The thing is -- I know his instincts are good, and I'd follow him through any winding road, no matter its pitfalls.
Valkieri and Sylphie has asked us to work for Gemecitta's interests, so I've sent messages to several of the merchants we know -- the ones who do the oil presses for our tithe -- and asked them to spread the word about the renovation project to skilled artisans. Valkieri wants me to stop talking -- what a silly idea! -- but at least I can put my tongue to good use like a proper vassal.
And we're supposed to update our wardrobes, so we don't look provincial, and be prepared for an upcoming gala. No swinging on chandeliers for me.
I wish I had something more exciting to do. I heard there's a training center in town where people can try their luck. Maybe Vincere will go with me. It wouldn't do to let him get rusty with a blade, particularly not here!
The only thing that's right is that I come here with Vincere, following at his heel. He's Count of the March now, and the politics and intrigues of Arx open out before us like an unfamiliar network of roads, where I know he'll never ask for directions. The thing is -- I know his instincts are good, and I'd follow him through any winding road, no matter its pitfalls.
Valkieri and Sylphie has asked us to work for Gemecitta's interests, so I've sent messages to several of the merchants we know -- the ones who do the oil presses for our tithe -- and asked them to spread the word about the renovation project to skilled artisans. Valkieri wants me to stop talking -- what a silly idea! -- but at least I can put my tongue to good use like a proper vassal.
And we're supposed to update our wardrobes, so we don't look provincial, and be prepared for an upcoming gala. No swinging on chandeliers for me.
I wish I had something more exciting to do. I heard there's a training center in town where people can try their luck. Maybe Vincere will go with me. It wouldn't do to let him get rusty with a blade, particularly not here!
Written By Pietro
Oct. 2, 2016, 4:41 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Sylvie
Lady Sylphie Zaffria is our hostess, a vision of taste and aesthetics. She was married to Zacheri. I can't believe he died so young, and not even in glorious combat against a known foe.
She has our full support!
She has our full support!
Written By Pietro
Oct. 2, 2016, 4:39 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Valkieri
Lord Valkieri Rubino was our foster brother when our mother sent us from our home in Granato when we were children, and he's only gotten worse as time has gone by. He met us in the city and guided us to the Palazzo Gemecitta, where he and Lady Sylphie Zaffria invited us to stay.
OF COURSE he loves us. Or at least loves to loathe us! Hahah! I'm picturing his scowl as he happens to read this and laughing aloud.
OF COURSE he loves us. Or at least loves to loathe us! Hahah! I'm picturing his scowl as he happens to read this and laughing aloud.
Written By Pietro
Oct. 2, 2016, 4:36 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Vincere
Vincere and I have arrived together in Arx.
He is now the Count of the March, since our mother has retired from her position. Never mind the reasons why.
I know he is up to the task, and anyone who thinks he isn't will have to come through me.
He is now the Count of the March, since our mother has retired from her position. Never mind the reasons why.
I know he is up to the task, and anyone who thinks he isn't will have to come through me.
Written By Darren
Oct. 2, 2016, 4:11 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
When my cousin approached with the desire to host a traditional Northern ritual, I'll admit to some hesitance. These types of things aren't as easily digestable here in the city, particularly right now when things are so tense and uncertain.
But I think she did well, and she was strong in the moment. I was glad to see that my hesitance and concern for adversity did not bear fruit - the people in attendance were a diverse group, but while there were questions, everyone was respectful.
I'm sure there will be many more questions to come as news of the ritual spreads through the city, but I believe Freja is perfectly capable of handling them with grace and strength.
But I think she did well, and she was strong in the moment. I was glad to see that my hesitance and concern for adversity did not bear fruit - the people in attendance were a diverse group, but while there were questions, everyone was respectful.
I'm sure there will be many more questions to come as news of the ritual spreads through the city, but I believe Freja is perfectly capable of handling them with grace and strength.
Written By Esera
Oct. 2, 2016, 3:49 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
I grew up in Lenosia, in the City-State of Gardens. They say, in Lenosia, you may find any flower. The merchants bring them from afar, bring them as sprouts and bring them as bulbs. Among these flowers, some are long forgotten -- things of beauty, lost to time. Many others are named and known. If I am to be called the Archduchess of Flowers, I thought, perhaps, I might write about a few.
Fox Creep - An ivy with dusty purple flowers, dizzyingly sweet. They grow up the walls of my palace in Lenosia, and now they grow up the walls of my throne room in Arx, too. Careful you do not breathe too deeply of them, lest your head spin, and your heart warm -- they are intoxicating, a beautiful aphrodisiac.
Ardent Whisp - A bright yellow blossom made of a thousand tiny petals, it is rarely seen outside Sanctum. Yet, in recent years, some say they have seen it in Lenosia, little flashes of yellow that grow just outside the Palace. I wonder whose mischief this is?
Luminance - A pure white flower. Light-devouring, it shines gold under sunlight, ghostly silver under moonlight. You may never see one, never find one. Perhaps somewhere, in some lost corner of Lenosia, you will catch one blooming. Perhaps, more likely, they do not exist at all -- just a story told to young Lenosian ladies, who go 'chasing Luminance' in the dark of night.
Fox Creep - An ivy with dusty purple flowers, dizzyingly sweet. They grow up the walls of my palace in Lenosia, and now they grow up the walls of my throne room in Arx, too. Careful you do not breathe too deeply of them, lest your head spin, and your heart warm -- they are intoxicating, a beautiful aphrodisiac.
Ardent Whisp - A bright yellow blossom made of a thousand tiny petals, it is rarely seen outside Sanctum. Yet, in recent years, some say they have seen it in Lenosia, little flashes of yellow that grow just outside the Palace. I wonder whose mischief this is?
Luminance - A pure white flower. Light-devouring, it shines gold under sunlight, ghostly silver under moonlight. You may never see one, never find one. Perhaps somewhere, in some lost corner of Lenosia, you will catch one blooming. Perhaps, more likely, they do not exist at all -- just a story told to young Lenosian ladies, who go 'chasing Luminance' in the dark of night.
Written By Barric
Oct. 2, 2016, 3:10 p.m.(9/24/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
I met Princess Donella Thrax at the inn within the Thrax district. A rough and rumble place, but she softened the decor with her lovely presence. She is clearly a capable woman judging by her position as Voice do her grandfather, Prince Donrai. It is an intimidating family to say the least but she we very personable and pleasant to be around. It is important to have connections to the other houses, at least on a social level, and I believe she likely agrees with me on that.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.