Written By Aislin
Sept. 24, 2016, 2:49 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
In my experience, the wildlife with the most vivid colors and outlandish shape is usually trying to mislead you in some way. Whether to masquerade as some larger and more dangerous creature, or distract you from a weakness, there's almost always a motive to it.
What, then, should I make of Lord Salazar Argento?
The man speaks like a poet, every other sentence a flowery turn of phrase meant to evoke a vivid image. He acts with flourishes meant to draw the eye, and oozes charm like a tree leaks sap. And I can't help but wonder how much of that is genuinely who he is, and how much meant to lead the eye in the directions he wants.
What, then, should I make of Lord Salazar Argento?
The man speaks like a poet, every other sentence a flowery turn of phrase meant to evoke a vivid image. He acts with flourishes meant to draw the eye, and oozes charm like a tree leaks sap. And I can't help but wonder how much of that is genuinely who he is, and how much meant to lead the eye in the directions he wants.
Written By Salazar
Sept. 24, 2016, 2:48 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Aislin
Lady Aislin Ashford is fierce, strong, beautiful and a little bit scary. A lot scary, perhaps, seeing as she's gone as far inland as I've gone outwards. She fights with the precision of a surgeon, wielding a sword like an extension of herself. But she seems, ultimately, uninterested in the political waters I find myself floating so often in, which may or may not be a boon. We've agreed to practice sparring, for the betterment of the both of us. There's certainly more to be had at the cost of but some time invested.
Written By Aislin
Sept. 24, 2016, 2:42 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Valkieri
Cara's brother, a Lycene lord whose general attitude seems to fall on a spectrum ranging from annoyance to amusement. (There may be other axis to this chart, but I've yet to observe them for myself in any of our encounters.) Still, he proved a willing sparring partner, and another contact in the Lyceum never hurts; enough expeditions do have to move through that territory. Besides, there is a notable shortage of people in this city willing to let me hit them repeatedly with practice swords.
Written By Salazar
Sept. 24, 2016, 2:41 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
Alrec Magaldi is a cockroach. Or maybe an exotic species of a bearded waterbug. The man served my father in the blessed good ole days that you heard the old-timers speak about on the beaches of Nilanza. He'd sell his mother if he thought there'd be any profit in it. But there's something likable about him - kindred souls that we are, reaving the high seas. I'd run past him in my father's study as a boy while he was a young man trying to make a bloody name for himself from the corpses of other unfortunate souls, but I truly made his acquaintance long after he'd already made it. Serving as the Admiral of Pravus after a truly draconian twist - putting his own bloody Islander men to the sword - Alrec ended up being the commander of the navy which I contributed my privateer services over, policing the seas on our side of the Saffron Chain.
Alrec took a liking to me immediately, and I to him, though we pranked each other mercilessly. The bastard once told me that there was a dolphin on the starboard, and then pushed me over the railing. But between the conquests on sea and at land, Alrec's been as trustworthy a friend as I could ask in a bloody pirate admiral. After the end of my commission, I'd come here and found myself reunited with him at the Hundred Cities Inn. It's clear our relationship has become far more mutually beneficial and mutually intertwined. Get in bed with a spider, get tangled with the webs. But my father and Alrec have a long-standing relationship that adds a framework with which we operate. And then again, Magaldi's bloody great fun even when he's not spinning webs.
I recently ran into Alrec and the bastard tells me he used to be a barber. A -barber-. He's crafting this scented beard oil and hoping to get rich on it. On a leap of faith - Gods, I hate myself saying this right now - I issued an order for the Argento navy to stock it as prevention against lice. I hope to hell it works, or Alrec's just got the company money tied up in an unwise investment.
Alrec took a liking to me immediately, and I to him, though we pranked each other mercilessly. The bastard once told me that there was a dolphin on the starboard, and then pushed me over the railing. But between the conquests on sea and at land, Alrec's been as trustworthy a friend as I could ask in a bloody pirate admiral. After the end of my commission, I'd come here and found myself reunited with him at the Hundred Cities Inn. It's clear our relationship has become far more mutually beneficial and mutually intertwined. Get in bed with a spider, get tangled with the webs. But my father and Alrec have a long-standing relationship that adds a framework with which we operate. And then again, Magaldi's bloody great fun even when he's not spinning webs.
I recently ran into Alrec and the bastard tells me he used to be a barber. A -barber-. He's crafting this scented beard oil and hoping to get rich on it. On a leap of faith - Gods, I hate myself saying this right now - I issued an order for the Argento navy to stock it as prevention against lice. I hope to hell it works, or Alrec's just got the company money tied up in an unwise investment.
Written By Salazar
Sept. 24, 2016, 2:40 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Alrec
Alrec Magaldi is a cockroach. Or maybe an exotic species of a bearded waterbug. The man served my father in the blessed good ole days that you heard the old-timers speak about on the beaches of Nilanza. He'd sell his mother if he thought there'd be any profit in it. But there's something likable about him - kindred souls that we are, reaving the high seas. I'd run past him in my father's study as a boy while he was a young man trying to make a bloody name for himself from the corpses of other unfortunate souls, but I truly made his acquaintance long after he'd already made it. Serving as the Admiral of Pravus after a truly draconian twist - putting his own bloody Islander men to the sword - Alrec ended up being the commander of the navy which I contributed my privateer services over, policing the seas on our side of the Saffron Chain.
Alrec took a liking to me immediately, and I to him, though we pranked each other mercilessly. The bastard once told me that there was a dolphin on the starboard, and then pushed me over the railing. But between the conquests on sea and at land, Alrec's been as trustworthy a friend as I could ask in a bloody pirate admiral. After the end of my commission, I'd come here and found myself reunited with him at the Hundred Cities Inn. It's clear our relationship has become far more mutually beneficial and mutually intertwined. Get in bed with a spider, get tangled with the webs. But my father and Alrec have a long-standing relationship that adds a framework with which we operate. And then again, Magaldi's bloody great fun even when he's not spinning webs.
Alrec took a liking to me immediately, and I to him, though we pranked each other mercilessly. The bastard once told me that there was a dolphin on the starboard, and then pushed me over the railing. But between the conquests on sea and at land, Alrec's been as trustworthy a friend as I could ask in a bloody pirate admiral. After the end of my commission, I'd come here and found myself reunited with him at the Hundred Cities Inn. It's clear our relationship has become far more mutually beneficial and mutually intertwined. Get in bed with a spider, get tangled with the webs. But my father and Alrec have a long-standing relationship that adds a framework with which we operate. And then again, Magaldi's bloody great fun even when he's not spinning webs.
Written By Joscelin
Sept. 24, 2016, 1:52 a.m.(8/27/1004 AR)
It has been a week of unexpected business, and busy-ness. Between speaking to every crafter I can get a messenger to, meeting newcomers, speaking to new clients, creating custom pieces for all manner of reasons, and even some personal matters... it's been a very long week indeed.
I think I am done with my journal tonight. I haven't the energy to detail all my thoughts and feelings for the moment.
Also, my back is killing me.
I think I am done with my journal tonight. I haven't the energy to detail all my thoughts and feelings for the moment.
Also, my back is killing me.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 9:01 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
I find myself constantly reminded how capable Mistress Joscelin Arterius is at her craftsmanship. I was gifted a stunning set of earrings in a black and white box, exquisitely worked by her hand. I find myself often in shops, from one side to the other, trying to show my support and get others to purchase from artisans I feel are especially skilled - and there are many of them. But this particular gift, like the person who gave it to me, is truly remarkable. I would greatly encourage anyone seeking gifts to employ her talents.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 8:22 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
There are some memories that need to be kept only mentally, never applied to paper or perhaps even shared on a personal level. Retained near the one's core and kept locked away. And then there's other memories which can be knocked off a list of things to do before you die.
I dived into the Palace Pools, loitered beneath their waterfall and gorged myself on a feast which took a half-dozen carts just to carry. Lady Star (Lady Dawn) certainly pulled through with her word and so much more. I have no regrets for how determinedly I fought for the opportunity and certainly would do it again.
I dived into the Palace Pools, loitered beneath their waterfall and gorged myself on a feast which took a half-dozen carts just to carry. Lady Star (Lady Dawn) certainly pulled through with her word and so much more. I have no regrets for how determinedly I fought for the opportunity and certainly would do it again.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 7:44 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
Lord Salazar Argento, or so I at least overheard him be called. I'd kind of rather think of him as the bold and memorable nameless Lord Corsair with a stewing animosity against lascivious bankers. He has a cavalier personality though and one that's flooded with lures and light. I can see him being one of those men that captures ladies in every port. Maybe not literally, though. Maybe.
We crossed blades, if only exceptionally briefly. The fact his was covered by scabbard and the amusing manner by which he engaged me were perhaps the only things that kept me from holding back. I've gone up against keen-bladed swords before and it isn't really my first choice of things to frivolously charge into. It really shouldn't be anyone's first choice, now that I think about it. But I'd certainly enjoy taking him on again.
We crossed blades, if only exceptionally briefly. The fact his was covered by scabbard and the amusing manner by which he engaged me were perhaps the only things that kept me from holding back. I've gone up against keen-bladed swords before and it isn't really my first choice of things to frivolously charge into. It really shouldn't be anyone's first choice, now that I think about it. But I'd certainly enjoy taking him on again.
Written By Barric
Sept. 23, 2016, 4 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jaenelle
Princess Jaenelle Velenosa is a charming and clever woman. She was originally a Thrax but married into house Velenosa and was widowed. There seem to be a lot of young widows in this city. Perhaps I should be careful. In any event, she's very lovely and sociable. An excellent conversationalist, which I can appreciate. I believe she could be a good friend in time.
Written By Donella
Sept. 23, 2016, 3:04 p.m.(8/25/1004 AR)
It is easy to make decisions in an administrative capacity; for one's personal life, it is ever so much harder. Yes, No, Maybe. I don't know. Is it because from the family, I can step back and be objective? I can ask, what would Himself do? And at least then, I can navigate and be confident in how I turn the wheel. But I can never step back from myself. It will always be Donella in here, and whoever she is, whatever she is to anyone else, she... no, I, have to carry the uncertainty, and after, any recriminations by myself. Only feeble-minded weaklings crave someone else to decide for them, for the tide to pull them this way or that. I am Thrax. I chart my own way, and turn into the wind.
Written By Jaenelle
Sept. 23, 2016, 10:29 a.m.(8/25/1004 AR)
I am not known for my knowledge. I prefer hosting grand balls or adventurous, sometimes dangerous, events. This was something that I thought might be fun and was pleased when Nadia agreed to assist me in hosting.
There were ultimately two teams of participants. Prince Darren, Lady Lydia, and Lord Tobias. The other team was Lord Valkieri, Lady Aislin, and Sir Silas. I am not quite sure what Prince Darren's idea of victory is, but he did not receive one last night. There were a total of six questions, three by me and three from Duchess Nadia. Lady Aislin's team answered the first, third, and fourth, and a half point to the sixth question. Prince Darren's team answered the second and a half point for the third question. I was drinking, as were we all, but I can count quite proficiently.
For the record, Lord Valkieri, I believe the event went well and I would not consider it a 'disaster' at all. You have just become my new project. I fear that you were never taught how to behave with any sort of etiquette or polite decorum, and instead of being upset or angry at your remarks, you are now mine.
There were ultimately two teams of participants. Prince Darren, Lady Lydia, and Lord Tobias. The other team was Lord Valkieri, Lady Aislin, and Sir Silas. I am not quite sure what Prince Darren's idea of victory is, but he did not receive one last night. There were a total of six questions, three by me and three from Duchess Nadia. Lady Aislin's team answered the first, third, and fourth, and a half point to the sixth question. Prince Darren's team answered the second and a half point for the third question. I was drinking, as were we all, but I can count quite proficiently.
For the record, Lord Valkieri, I believe the event went well and I would not consider it a 'disaster' at all. You have just become my new project. I fear that you were never taught how to behave with any sort of etiquette or polite decorum, and instead of being upset or angry at your remarks, you are now mine.
Written By Darren
Sept. 22, 2016, 11:31 p.m.(8/24/1004 AR)
Some of my fondest memories of home are contests like this. There'd be a large bonfire, scantily clad women in furs and leathers, and we'd drink for every question that was answered wrong. Of course, every question answered correctly was also drank to, but that was part of the fun. Eventually, one of us would get so pissed that we'd slug the quizmaster, and a brawl would break out, but that was /also/ part of the fun.
There was no brawl to finish out Duchess Nadia and Princess Jaenelle's quiz, nor was there a bonfire or scantily clad women. But there was plenty of drink to be had, and thus there I was. I single handedly held up my team and brought us to victory, of course, even if the Princess claimed we were "all" winners. What a crock of shit, that.
There was no brawl to finish out Duchess Nadia and Princess Jaenelle's quiz, nor was there a bonfire or scantily clad women. But there was plenty of drink to be had, and thus there I was. I single handedly held up my team and brought us to victory, of course, even if the Princess claimed we were "all" winners. What a crock of shit, that.
Written By Joscelin
Sept. 22, 2016, 10:50 p.m.(8/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Viktarkim
I made him smile once.
Written By Kima
Sept. 22, 2016, 9:34 p.m.(8/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Abbas
I hope Mangata is pleased with herself, because I have come across several noteworthy men recently that feel more at home in her realm than upon land. This particular entry is dedicated to a one Abbas Thrax, Lion of the Seas. You can surely see why I am partial, but animal allusions and animalistic tendencies aside, I genuinely like the man, and look forward to getting to know him better.
Perhaps what pleases me most is his talent for conversation. Okay, maybe I am not being entirely forthright, allow me to explain: One cousin is the perfect listener, while Abbas is marvelous to engage in deep, often more thoughtful discord. Between the pair of them, I have the best of both worlds.
What? Oh, well of course he's good looking as well. I don't care a whit about ugly people.
Though I do wonder how he wound up with those grey streaks within his hair...
Perhaps what pleases me most is his talent for conversation. Okay, maybe I am not being entirely forthright, allow me to explain: One cousin is the perfect listener, while Abbas is marvelous to engage in deep, often more thoughtful discord. Between the pair of them, I have the best of both worlds.
What? Oh, well of course he's good looking as well. I don't care a whit about ugly people.
Though I do wonder how he wound up with those grey streaks within his hair...
Written By Viktarkim
Sept. 22, 2016, 12:35 p.m.(8/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
A sea Captain whom I gather is a merchantman dealing in trade. His latest interest is in fine wines. He seems a likeable, jovial fellow.
Written By Eos
Sept. 22, 2016, 12:25 p.m.(8/22/1004 AR)
A fencing foil is less than a third of the weight of either of the swords I wield now, and I have not used one since I was a small boy. It will be very easy to put more force than is needed behind the foil for the memory in my muscles of a heavier weapon, and miss the mark of my parries, or overestimate the momentum and root my weight too heavily. There is not long to practice and remind my body how to use a foil, but I am looking forward to Sir Silas' competition just the same.
There a couple of spars on the horizon as well, when time allows, that I am looking forward to. I have a new blade, expertly crafted by Mistress Ida, that I have yet to use that desperately requires a first blooding. That the sword was a gift, it seems suiting that its initiation come from friendly competition rather than hostile violence. Perhaps it will find a proper name in the process. All good swords should have a name, and I have never owned the like of Mistress Ida's craftsmanship.
There a couple of spars on the horizon as well, when time allows, that I am looking forward to. I have a new blade, expertly crafted by Mistress Ida, that I have yet to use that desperately requires a first blooding. That the sword was a gift, it seems suiting that its initiation come from friendly competition rather than hostile violence. Perhaps it will find a proper name in the process. All good swords should have a name, and I have never owned the like of Mistress Ida's craftsmanship.
Written By Joscelin
Sept. 22, 2016, 12:37 a.m.(8/21/1004 AR)
Lady Kima sent me several southern-inspired designs today. I have to say, I didn't expect to be so taken by them, but they are just so -different-....
I'm sharing the designs with several of my fellow guildmembers. If I'm so easily inspired by them, perhaps they are too?
I'm sharing the designs with several of my fellow guildmembers. If I'm so easily inspired by them, perhaps they are too?
Written By Alrec
Sept. 21, 2016, 11:28 p.m.(8/21/1004 AR)
I hired Master Anastasio for a simple task; to brew a hair treatment oil that could withstand the harshness of the sea and summer sun. He did not disappoint. What was delivered to me is an exquisite blend of adventure at sea, the spirit of a dangerous corsair, and the allure that all entitles. All captured in a little bottle to be sold to the masses. Not all of us are given the freedom to take to a ship and leave behind our responsibilities but with this hair fragrance, I can see even the simplest of men taking the disguise of corsairs and privateers. Perhaps enhancing their confidence in the company of womenfolk and I am sure the ladies will be forever thankful that their men both look good and smell good. It is a win/win and I am excited for what the future business with Master Anastasio holds.
Written By Lydia
Sept. 21, 2016, 8 p.m.(8/20/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I'm happy to say that since I arrived to Arx, I seem to have a growing friendship with Prince Darren.
We're taken to meeting up at the Spirits, where he says I help to add some levity to his day. Still, for all he claims that he values my friendship, there are still secrets he doesn't share. Silly secrets that don't need to be secret at all. It would probably help him if it wasn't a secret, but I suppose it's his life!
PS I need to remember to check in about the leathers.
We're taken to meeting up at the Spirits, where he says I help to add some levity to his day. Still, for all he claims that he values my friendship, there are still secrets he doesn't share. Silly secrets that don't need to be secret at all. It would probably help him if it wasn't a secret, but I suppose it's his life!
PS I need to remember to check in about the leathers.
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