Written By Dagon
Sept. 2, 2016, 3:09 p.m.(6/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
My sister's handmaiden is as quiet as a mouse, yet I think she and Margot were speaking about something. I wonder what.
Nevermind that. Why does Donella permit her handmaiden to wander around the estate without shoes on? I shall have to ask her about this the next time I see her. Either the girl should have the decency to do her duties as one should, or she should be forced to walk on hot sand for a full day to teach her the value in wearing shoes.
Nevermind that. Why does Donella permit her handmaiden to wander around the estate without shoes on? I shall have to ask her about this the next time I see her. Either the girl should have the decency to do her duties as one should, or she should be forced to walk on hot sand for a full day to teach her the value in wearing shoes.
Written By Max
Sept. 2, 2016, 2:38 p.m.(6/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Brianna
The Count's first meeting with Brianna Halfshav was an interesting one. He liked her, in his own way, until she called him a 'kid', a word that the Count only hears to describe certain children of animals. Either way, he didn't like the word, and whatever approval he had for her quickly went away. He also believes she holds intimate feelings for Victus, which makes him trust her even less.
Written By Freja
Sept. 2, 2016, 1:28 p.m.(6/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
One of the few Southern women in silks, a Whisper at that, to not try and get Freja in more 'sensible' and fashionable clothes. Freja may not agree with some of the other woman's overly flirtatious behavior and mannerisms, but she understands it is part of Larissa's job in a sense. She just thinks there could be a more subtle way of going about it. Still, the Whisper has promised to help Freja with some dance lessons so she doesn't trip over her feet too terribly if forced into a gala or something. Like it or not, Freja is in her debt for it.
Written By Silas
Sept. 2, 2016, 5:05 a.m.(6/18/1004 AR)
It has been an interesting week. In my pursuit of finding able teammates for the upcoming Grand Melee, I have become acquainted with yet another Prince Inquisitor who had arrived in Arx a few days prior. He took my invitation to join my team and I thought it prudent to test his skills.
He, uh, needs some work. But he is not without natural toughness. Unsurprising, given his line of work. It seems he has taken the initiative to prepare himself, so I expect him to show up and comport himself well.
Admiral Alrec approached me to join our merry band, but it looks like unexpected trouble at home will be tearing him away. A shame; he sounds like a fun guy to fight with and alongside. I can only hope I get another opportunity.
Mistress Eithne has completed my snazzy set of high steel armor, so even if I don't win I will at least look dashing losing!
Master Enzo has hired me to furnish his shop, which is going through some hefty renovations. I have completed the loveseat designs and now all I need is the materials, but I think I will let him take a peek at the sketches to see if they're to his liking before I continue.
He, uh, needs some work. But he is not without natural toughness. Unsurprising, given his line of work. It seems he has taken the initiative to prepare himself, so I expect him to show up and comport himself well.
Admiral Alrec approached me to join our merry band, but it looks like unexpected trouble at home will be tearing him away. A shame; he sounds like a fun guy to fight with and alongside. I can only hope I get another opportunity.
Mistress Eithne has completed my snazzy set of high steel armor, so even if I don't win I will at least look dashing losing!
Master Enzo has hired me to furnish his shop, which is going through some hefty renovations. I have completed the loveseat designs and now all I need is the materials, but I think I will let him take a peek at the sketches to see if they're to his liking before I continue.
Written By Prospero
Sept. 2, 2016, 4:49 a.m.(6/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Leo
It is good to have my Duke in Arx. His reserved nature will be a pleasant counter to his vivacious sister. I would not have guessed the kind of man that he would become, having witnessed his playing at chivalry and knighthood as a boy. He has retained all the best qualities of those days, yet been tempered by the disaster of the Tor-Southport debacle.
Written By Darren
Sept. 2, 2016, 12:10 a.m.(6/17/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
The Whisper fluttered her eyelashes at me. She -fluttered- her -eyelashes- at -me-. I'm not quite sure what she expected of me, though perhaps someone with more delicate sensibilities would have fallen for that trick. She may claim to be besotted with my House, but she knows nothing of the ways and wiles of Northern women. If she did, she would not be fluttering her lashes.
Written By Darren
Sept. 2, 2016, 12:04 a.m.(6/17/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
Prince Luca Velenosa. Not quite what I expected, and yet I can see what she sees. Begrudingly, I suppose he can continue with what it is he has been doing.
Written By Kima
Sept. 1, 2016, 11:01 p.m.(6/17/1004 AR)
Today I pen this myself, as I sit here within the Menagerie and attempt (with the utmost futility, I might add), to get the creature in the pen below to pay me the attention I am due. Typical! We beautiful animals can never really look beyond ourselves.
Instead, what we long for, what we continually search for, are our reflections. Call it blasphemous, but I dare you to muster the courage and take a good look around. Look at yon lords and ladies in their finery, so much like some of the rare and exotic birds housed here. Are they not as proud of their plumage?
Now you might say, Kima, scholars say those feathers are for attracting mates! And that may be so. It may also be so for the birds. I posit that it is more than that. Whether in rivals or in mates, they're searching for reflections of themselves. They want to see the love, or the envy, that they engender in another. Is it for affirmation? That I do not know.
I found my reflection, once. So I know, know that you can stare into it until you fall inward, and are devoured. I wonder, when all things struggle so mightily to live, what authored this perverse affliction that so plagues some of us to seek out annihilation?
To end on a lighter note, I am told my a most serious-looking young man that the big fuzzy creature with the long canines and bare arse is called a baboon.
Instead, what we long for, what we continually search for, are our reflections. Call it blasphemous, but I dare you to muster the courage and take a good look around. Look at yon lords and ladies in their finery, so much like some of the rare and exotic birds housed here. Are they not as proud of their plumage?
Now you might say, Kima, scholars say those feathers are for attracting mates! And that may be so. It may also be so for the birds. I posit that it is more than that. Whether in rivals or in mates, they're searching for reflections of themselves. They want to see the love, or the envy, that they engender in another. Is it for affirmation? That I do not know.
I found my reflection, once. So I know, know that you can stare into it until you fall inward, and are devoured. I wonder, when all things struggle so mightily to live, what authored this perverse affliction that so plagues some of us to seek out annihilation?
To end on a lighter note, I am told my a most serious-looking young man that the big fuzzy creature with the long canines and bare arse is called a baboon.
Written By Laric
Sept. 1, 2016, 6:22 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Well, the commoner knight, Sir Silas, has once again thoroughly whipped my sorry ass, and his humility makes me all the sorer. I guess I should be thankful for his tutelage but these bruises encourage thanks for nothing. Still, the man has been gracious with his time, even if he's contractually obligated to be. We keep good folk in House Grayson.
I also had the opportunity to shake hands with Lord Harlan! What a reserved gentleman, I could not get a single rise out of him, and I did tilt enthusiastically. Another fine chap looking for a fine wife. One that won't abscond without a prenuptial agreement, or die. Good luck, heir of Ashford Keep, good luck indeed.
Well, I stopped in to have a little look-see at Eithne's shop, and of course she is stunning in person. She has made a suit for Sir Silas that looks positively debonair. I am chomping at the bit to see the final product.
Speaking of final product - Ida's commission of a rapier has me QUITE pleased, so much so that i purchased another sword that was also her make from her storefront. I suppose its a good thing House Grayson is rich, but then, we have earned the privilege to wear the finest crafts Arx can offer.
Faye sent a three word letter by carrier pigeon. I think she must be mocking me.
I also had the opportunity to shake hands with Lord Harlan! What a reserved gentleman, I could not get a single rise out of him, and I did tilt enthusiastically. Another fine chap looking for a fine wife. One that won't abscond without a prenuptial agreement, or die. Good luck, heir of Ashford Keep, good luck indeed.
Well, I stopped in to have a little look-see at Eithne's shop, and of course she is stunning in person. She has made a suit for Sir Silas that looks positively debonair. I am chomping at the bit to see the final product.
Speaking of final product - Ida's commission of a rapier has me QUITE pleased, so much so that i purchased another sword that was also her make from her storefront. I suppose its a good thing House Grayson is rich, but then, we have earned the privilege to wear the finest crafts Arx can offer.
Faye sent a three word letter by carrier pigeon. I think she must be mocking me.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 5:55 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Larissa
Brilliant, witty, beautiful, and whip-smart.
Capable of both frivolity and gravity, her kind words put a bounce back into my steps. This one is dangerous. Fortunately she seems to be on my side.
Capable of both frivolity and gravity, her kind words put a bounce back into my steps. This one is dangerous. Fortunately she seems to be on my side.
Written By Ida
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:09 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Made a few weapons that I am rather proud of recently, though hope that does not come across as patting myself on the back. Truly, all three were designed by those who requested them. I just put their ideas into the form of steel.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
The first was a warhammer Lady Dawn asked for as a gift she would be giving to Master Hammar. Having done his armor, I had what he seemed to favor in regard to style. The fact that I am well aware of his physical presence, I knew just about the right size to make it. Hopefully it is weighted well. In any case, both Lady Dawn and Master Hammar seemed pleased, which thrilled me to no end. The design on the hammer head is one I was really pleased with, though take no credit for.
After that, I received word from Prince Laric Grayson for a rapier in the colors of the Inquisition. He sent me a flower, though noted he'd heard I didn't like such frivolities. I actually like that sort of frivolity a good deal and wonder why being a strong woman leads people to think otherwise? Though I digress. He had some very specific ideas and requests, which I believe I managed to deliver to his satisfaction.
Lastly, one of the most interesting items I have had occasion to craft is a one-handed waraxe for Lady Brianna. I have to admit, I had a slip of the hammer at one point and it ended up making an edge that I really liked, so what was almost an error became a feature. Again, I was pretty pleased with the design when it was done and so seemed Lady Brianna, which is always most important.
Good week, with a set of hairpins as well as a metting yet to go.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:06 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
So, I met an Inquisitor today in the Grayson courtyard gardens.
Strange, but aren't they all. This one managed to sneak a few morbid remarks into an otherwise normal conversation. There is something about him though. Something that tells me he is good at his job. Not sure I want to know any more than that.
Written By Harlan
Sept. 1, 2016, 3:01 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Well. I'm back in Arx.
One can't help but be amazed at the place. What man has wrought: a million stones stacked by a million hands. How many masons? How many laborers? Only a fool would fail to be impressed.
I still hate it here. Already the wood calls to me. I would trade a dozen capitals for one week back in the Ashford forests. Still, there is business to be done, and I'd best be at it. Duty calls.
One can't help but be amazed at the place. What man has wrought: a million stones stacked by a million hands. How many masons? How many laborers? Only a fool would fail to be impressed.
I still hate it here. Already the wood calls to me. I would trade a dozen capitals for one week back in the Ashford forests. Still, there is business to be done, and I'd best be at it. Duty calls.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 1:16 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
I do so love a challenge.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:58 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
I confesss, I turn to my journal not nearly as well as I should. Often my days blur into nights and nights blur into parties and booze and all the many masks I wear. And what truly consists of an evening spent with a Courtesan and Courtier of the court? At times I am called upon as friend and confidant and in those moments I am precious and those around me are cherished as I hold their hand and wipe tears and coax laughter and hold secrets well into my heart. I have the fortunate disposition to love easily, so dazzled am I by the beautiful faces, the glittering lights and the ringing bells of laughter that promises more to come. Always more. I am a glutton fed with cream and butter.
Other times, I am called upon to teach what I know in the ways of ettiqute, dancing, poetry and the small histories of our world I've put myself to memorize. With our mix cultures and people standing thick and sociable and awkward together in one city, it is important that the Whisper House lays the foundation of cohesian and cooperation.
That theme altogether prevails more often than not as we are called on to be diplomats, using our knowledge of the different cultures to usher along an understanding of minds who are all, in their own ways, working towards the same goals and the same end. It is my belief that to succeed what is coming, that electric crackling and oppressive weight that is settling warily upon us, we must look to each other and hone our own individual strengths. We balance each other out, for without darkness there would be no light and we are creatures who thrive in both.
Other times, I am called upon to teach what I know in the ways of ettiqute, dancing, poetry and the small histories of our world I've put myself to memorize. With our mix cultures and people standing thick and sociable and awkward together in one city, it is important that the Whisper House lays the foundation of cohesian and cooperation.
That theme altogether prevails more often than not as we are called on to be diplomats, using our knowledge of the different cultures to usher along an understanding of minds who are all, in their own ways, working towards the same goals and the same end. It is my belief that to succeed what is coming, that electric crackling and oppressive weight that is settling warily upon us, we must look to each other and hone our own individual strengths. We balance each other out, for without darkness there would be no light and we are creatures who thrive in both.
Written By Leo
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:49 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Prospero
Tor benefits greatly from the sharp mind that keeps contracts and the law a Fidante strength.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:03 p.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
I swear this woman is in the wrong line of work. Never have I met anyone more fitting to the Whisper House than she. She even had me swooning and that's no small feat. She is charming, articulate, kind, warm, gorgeous and mysterious enough to leave you always wanting more... Shall I go on? And she's promised to teach me how to defend myself against potentially aggressive clients. In me, she has made a friend and fan for life.
Written By Larissa
Sept. 1, 2016, 11:37 a.m.(6/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Audric
I've heard rumors throughout the city of Captain General Audric and his flaming unicorn and the mercenary army he commands. It had been my intention to seduce him to the loyalty of the Whisper House - instead we discovered together that I cannot hold my whiskey and that compassion lurks in the unexpected and friendship is something that still holds merit and worth. I think I shall quite like calling this man my friend.
Written By Anastasio
Sept. 1, 2016, 7:05 a.m.(6/15/1004 AR)
Taking the problem with the Guardsmen to Lady Dawn has proven a route to a speedy solution, at the small price of having to endure the hard gaze of an Inquisitor. A messenger arrived the day after I spoke with the Lady, indicating that the problem had been taken care of. If there are others enduring the abuse of power I hope they speak up to someone. The Voice of Grayson also began my recovery, so I'm starting to look for a new shop space. It'd be better if I could find a patron. Someone will to offer up lab space and fund research into the alchemical side of things. The future of the healing arts is in the substances we can create. And it's not like the side-effects of that research aren't of use. The flameless lanterns have been a big seller.
Written By Joscelin
Sept. 1, 2016, 12:12 a.m.(6/14/1004 AR)
I can't sleep tonight.
I stole a moon-moth from the steps of an old temple, a garden shrouded in dreams that I still can't find a way back to. It was beautiful, fluttering softly under the lamplight, muted colors lost beneath its yellow glow. With the gentlest touch, I picked it up and cradled it in my palms. I took it home.
(The following has been written and crossed out, but it's still legible: "I have memories of my stupid brother when I do this. I remember the knuckles of his hand smearing the exposed cuts of a tender creature across my cheek, sneering. I remember crying and burying a small furry body, grotesque in its distortion." It's noted that the hand was heavy here, the quill dug in.)
It fluttered in a large glass jar, like the kind my mother has to keep her flour. I didn't trust the gaslamps to show me its proper color, so I went to bed to wait for sunrise.
It was well into the morning when I woke. And the moth was as astounding as I knew it would be. Golds, greens, grays, soft creams. Black lines, dramatic against those softer colors.
I drew it at least a dozen times, from several angles, tried to match its shade with my inks and tints. I think I've made a close estimate.
And then, like I always do when something living inspires me, I took it to my garden and I let it free. In the shade of the rose-tree, ancient, gnarled, sculpted thing, I left the insect to sleep in its protected branches.
I've a few designs drawn up already; enamels are a favorite of mine, and I look forward to creating images with the powdered glass. I think maybe a haircomb first... and then perhaps....
Hmm.
(the rest of the page is covered in little ink drawings of moths, temple arches, and a large, writhing, angry-looking rose tree, a small moth clearly settled in among the thorns, safe and protected)
I stole a moon-moth from the steps of an old temple, a garden shrouded in dreams that I still can't find a way back to. It was beautiful, fluttering softly under the lamplight, muted colors lost beneath its yellow glow. With the gentlest touch, I picked it up and cradled it in my palms. I took it home.
(The following has been written and crossed out, but it's still legible: "I have memories of my stupid brother when I do this. I remember the knuckles of his hand smearing the exposed cuts of a tender creature across my cheek, sneering. I remember crying and burying a small furry body, grotesque in its distortion." It's noted that the hand was heavy here, the quill dug in.)
It fluttered in a large glass jar, like the kind my mother has to keep her flour. I didn't trust the gaslamps to show me its proper color, so I went to bed to wait for sunrise.
It was well into the morning when I woke. And the moth was as astounding as I knew it would be. Golds, greens, grays, soft creams. Black lines, dramatic against those softer colors.
I drew it at least a dozen times, from several angles, tried to match its shade with my inks and tints. I think I've made a close estimate.
And then, like I always do when something living inspires me, I took it to my garden and I let it free. In the shade of the rose-tree, ancient, gnarled, sculpted thing, I left the insect to sleep in its protected branches.
I've a few designs drawn up already; enamels are a favorite of mine, and I look forward to creating images with the powdered glass. I think maybe a haircomb first... and then perhaps....
Hmm.
(the rest of the page is covered in little ink drawings of moths, temple arches, and a large, writhing, angry-looking rose tree, a small moth clearly settled in among the thorns, safe and protected)
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.