Written By Kima
July 17, 2016, 3:06 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Have you ever had a dream where, upon waking, you don't immediately realize you've returned to reality? Now I don't mean something fantastic. Or maybe I do, but we'll get to that. Anyway, I slept in today. Maybe you can't appreciate that, but as someone who's relationship with sleep has grown tenuous at best, let me tell you, it was a marvel. I slept in, and when I awoke I was so comfortable I didn't want to move a muscle. Then I remembered.
I remembered that the dream I had wasn't real. Couldn't be. Because Damaris is dead.
Have you ever seen someone die, scholar? Have you ever even seen a corpse? I don't begrudge you if you haven't. I've seen them, made them. You know this. Let me tell you about Damaris, and how she died.
All these soirees happening around Arx - she would have loved them. I dare say she'd take to them even better than I. Damaris was the type of woman who always had all the right words, and you never felt as if she was having you on. Sincere. She was the youngest daughter of the ruling family in Caith. Beautiful, with these dark thick curls of hair and equally dark eyes. A little smattering of freckles over the bridge of her nose. Gods, how her mother hated that she chose the path of the sword.
I suppose the woman must hate me, but I couldn't tell you for sure. I've never reached out to her. Out of shame, you see. Are you surprised I know the word? Well, how can I not, when all their bodies lie unburied?
...I don't much feel like talking about the rest right now. Not even the prospect of scandalizing you with tales of morbidity has its allure. Another time, perhaps.
I remembered that the dream I had wasn't real. Couldn't be. Because Damaris is dead.
Have you ever seen someone die, scholar? Have you ever even seen a corpse? I don't begrudge you if you haven't. I've seen them, made them. You know this. Let me tell you about Damaris, and how she died.
All these soirees happening around Arx - she would have loved them. I dare say she'd take to them even better than I. Damaris was the type of woman who always had all the right words, and you never felt as if she was having you on. Sincere. She was the youngest daughter of the ruling family in Caith. Beautiful, with these dark thick curls of hair and equally dark eyes. A little smattering of freckles over the bridge of her nose. Gods, how her mother hated that she chose the path of the sword.
I suppose the woman must hate me, but I couldn't tell you for sure. I've never reached out to her. Out of shame, you see. Are you surprised I know the word? Well, how can I not, when all their bodies lie unburied?
...I don't much feel like talking about the rest right now. Not even the prospect of scandalizing you with tales of morbidity has its allure. Another time, perhaps.
Written By Talen
July 17, 2016, 2:54 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Gareth
Prince Inquisitor Gareth Grayson is a man that is dedicated to his career in a way most normally aren't. Talen's respect for this has been noted as he himself feels much the same, the duties of being a Sword and serving the Velenosa family as all-encompassing as they are. It is Talen's belief that if there is ever to be any foul matters in Arx, the Inquisition will be the ones to find them.
Written By Acacia
July 17, 2016, 2:42 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Margot
I realize that Lady Margot perhaps is just entertaining my boldness, but she carries herself in a particular demeanor which draws people to her. The fact that she's acquiesced to grant me audience at some point speaks wonders to both her temperment and grace. It's been awhile since I've been at sea, but there's a memory there which she invokes. In every situation I've found myself in, and there's been several, her name has never come up without the highest standing and praise. It certainly makes one get to know her a little better.
Written By Talen
July 17, 2016, 1:59 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Rohkir
Prince Rohkir Redrain was a man of no small stature and while he not a direct heir by a long shot, he nevertheless held Talen's attention. This may be in no minor coincidence to the fact that there was an expressed interest in the Grand Duchess Esera and so, as an ever-watchful and protective sentinel of the Velenosa family, Talen was curious of the man and his motives.
Written By Talen
July 17, 2016, 1:46 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
Lady Kima Saik had not been known to Talen prior to his introduction to her in Arx. First met on the night of a masquerade, they had only been further acquainted from time to time for brief periods at various social gatherings. During the TORnament of Roses hosted the Fidante family, however, they were to face off in a joust. Talen has no qualms against throwing caltrops under her steed and for it, he was disqualified. It is Talen's belief that while Arx may not appear to be a place for southern trickery that the lady herself has lost the arguably healthy pananoia that serves individuals so well to survive in the Lyceum.
Written By Talen
July 17, 2016, 12:51 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
While the duties of a Sword oft times mean that social obligations are given a backseat, the Gala of Ascension held some opportunity for Talen to mingle. By being honoured with the first dance from the Grand Duchess of the Lyceum, Talen made the transition into a more animated sentinel of House Velenosa. It was at this function where the Duke Father of the Archduchess of Flowers saw fit to announce the medium in which potential suitors could win his approval should they ever entertain the notion of marrying her grace. It was Talen's observation that numerous candidates took the prospect too literally and has sworn to make it his quest to reinforce a truth. A truth which reads thus; Grand Duchess Esera Velenosa is beholden to nobody but herself and should anybody feel strongly otherwise, a gauntlet would be thrown.
Written By Talen
July 17, 2016, 12:37 p.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
While the Sword of Lenosia technically bested Lady Kima Saik in the joust, it was through no subtle means of underhandedness that this was accomplished. The first and second passes were evenly matched; each struck true and no individual was unhorsed. On the third, however, Talen saw fit to employ the use of caltrops to spike and unsettle the steed of the Lycene noblewoman. In answer to his motives, the sworn swordsman claims that the inherent thirst for victory-- at any cost-- is a southern trait just not appreciated quite the same in Arx. It did not seem to concern him one iota that due to his actions he was disqualified, however, so it must be concluded that unhorsing his opponent was the only competition the Artiglio man cared about.
Written By Gareth
July 17, 2016, 10:41 a.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
The Palace Seraph Ailith and Princess Ophelia seem to of not had the best introduction yet. Luckily I enjoy reasonably positive relations with both of them. I managed to entertain one while the other is loyal through their conviction and dedication to his majesty. I should seek out a herbalist though just in case her highness actually asks more about my plan or seeks to implement it. On an unrelated note, also check to make sure all the animal cages are locked.
Written By Gareth
July 17, 2016, 10:40 a.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
What is it with people and trying to approach me about things. On more than one occassion I have been content to sit by my lonesome, watching people.. places and things.. and time and time again there are those who interupt me at work. There are some who this interuption are of mild annoyance.. and then I meet people like Her Highness, Princess Jaenelle, a woman who attempts time and time again to catch me off guard or embarass me. I am uncertain whether to be touched by her concern and niceties or to view them as some long term ploy by House Thrax. Regardless however, she is.. tolerable to say the least... but I must redouble my observations.
Written By Viviana
July 17, 2016, 10:18 a.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
Have you ever had one of those mornings where you woke up and realised you hated something? Well today I woke up and realised that I hated positively everything about the Setarco Manor. I mean really? Just how long as it been since someone updated the decor? It's stuffy and dim and I'm sure the carpet in the hall is starting to smell of old woman. Anyway long story short I had the place gutted and am going to entirely redecorate the whole thing. Of course some people might say it's a waste of money to spend this much on redecorating, but to them I say... Well probably nothing since I imagine they're poor and dirty and I don't want to get too close.
Written By Viviana
July 17, 2016, 10:13 a.m.(1/18/1004 AR)
It's been a busy month for me,
I decided that the best way to promote wines from Setarco as the local merchants have been nagging constantly at me to do was to create a signature wine. After some searching I found our most exclusive and best sweet white and organized something of a campaign to make it all the more popular. So far it seems to be working well, with Prince Edain Valardin and Princess Valencia Redrain both asking for significant shipmentments for their home territories in particular. Prince Gareth Grayson was also quite supportive of the vintage. I'm optomistic that we can make Muscato d'Aureus the go to wine for warm summer evenings. Of course I may have to find a new signature vintage for when the weather turns, some sort of nice bodied red I think...
I also was able to arrange some naval exercises around the Saffron chain in concert with navies from Velenosa and Thrax, it seems a good time to make sure our sailors remain sharp and remind everyone that Setarco does have its fair share of warships, even if we are primarily a mercantile house.
Today I am the mistress of wine and warships.
I decided that the best way to promote wines from Setarco as the local merchants have been nagging constantly at me to do was to create a signature wine. After some searching I found our most exclusive and best sweet white and organized something of a campaign to make it all the more popular. So far it seems to be working well, with Prince Edain Valardin and Princess Valencia Redrain both asking for significant shipmentments for their home territories in particular. Prince Gareth Grayson was also quite supportive of the vintage. I'm optomistic that we can make Muscato d'Aureus the go to wine for warm summer evenings. Of course I may have to find a new signature vintage for when the weather turns, some sort of nice bodied red I think...
I also was able to arrange some naval exercises around the Saffron chain in concert with navies from Velenosa and Thrax, it seems a good time to make sure our sailors remain sharp and remind everyone that Setarco does have its fair share of warships, even if we are primarily a mercantile house.
Today I am the mistress of wine and warships.
Written By Gerry
July 17, 2016, 4:40 a.m.(1/17/1004 AR)
There. I have finished my very first commission to a noble born lady. Quite satisfied with the results, if I may say so myself. Made a little profit, too. Hopefully she'll spread the word to her friends as she promised, and I shall find myself with additional custom.
To think I almost gave up on leatherworking as a profession.
To think I almost gave up on leatherworking as a profession.
Written By Alrec
July 17, 2016, 2:31 a.m.(1/17/1004 AR)
I like to think that everyone is expecting me to compete in the Golden Decathlon but maybe thats the pride talking. Yet, I can not shake the confidence that if I were to participate in all three days, they'll be pressed to find someone that can match me. I will win and I better get something more than a lousy trophy. Like the crew, I yearn for something to happen that actually matter. War won't come any time soon and this, the competition, is a close alternative. I have my armor from Malavaunt and my blade from Ida, all I need is a sponsor and a fancy silk cloak with their sigil, and it will all be complete.
Written By Deva
July 17, 2016, 2:25 a.m.(1/17/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
Yeah, I know Prince Luca Velenosa is a fox, in both the family and attractive sense. He seems bored by almost everything, but he drinks whiskey as well as I do. Yeah, I kissed him at a party. He's cute. Whatever. You would too.
Written By Deva
July 17, 2016, 2:16 a.m.(1/17/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
High Lord Edain Valardin has a lot on his plate. Unexpected death dumped leadership of the Valardin into his lap, just like it did to my brother. He's very nice, noble and gracious, and deserves to smile and relax every now and then. I've made it my personal mission to make this knight let his hair down every once in a while. Shadow is a lot faster than Sir Arugula, but I try not to rub it in his face. I can't help that Redrain horses are so agile.
Written By Gerry
July 17, 2016, 2:14 a.m.(1/17/1004 AR)
The Lady Monique's tastes are utterly without peer. Why, this top and these pants I am making her will undoubtedly make her the spectacle of the noble season. I cannot but be humbled and honored that she has chosen me to be the vessel of her vision. Having worked day and night, I'm almost there for the first proper fitting.
On other matters: I despise people who deliver goods late. When I say I want some prime leather to work with today, then I mean today. Not tomorrow. Not the day after tomorrow. It makes you wish you were a violent sort. The kind who knows how to slit a man's throat. The kind who knows where you live. Who has spent years learning how to move silently in the night, and how to open latched windows and doors. The kind who could, perhaps, put an arrow in your eye from a hundred strides from across a rooftop while you were visiting a certain house and drinking wine with a blonde whose birth mark is in the shape of a dolphin.
But no, of course I am not that sort of man. I am but a humble trader. Murder is wrong, anyhow, and I would never even entertain the idea.
On other matters: I despise people who deliver goods late. When I say I want some prime leather to work with today, then I mean today. Not tomorrow. Not the day after tomorrow. It makes you wish you were a violent sort. The kind who knows how to slit a man's throat. The kind who knows where you live. Who has spent years learning how to move silently in the night, and how to open latched windows and doors. The kind who could, perhaps, put an arrow in your eye from a hundred strides from across a rooftop while you were visiting a certain house and drinking wine with a blonde whose birth mark is in the shape of a dolphin.
But no, of course I am not that sort of man. I am but a humble trader. Murder is wrong, anyhow, and I would never even entertain the idea.
Written By Gerry
July 17, 2016, 1:44 a.m.(1/16/1004 AR)
Ah, Leather & Tradegoods.
You're not exactly a pretty store, but at least you're on the Merchant Road right by the Merchant Gate. Everybody who moves to and from the Upper Borough is going to pass right by your door! Now best watch the apprentice I hired to deal with customers when I'm not around. Indeed I best.
Can't trust anyone not to steal from you in this city. A sad fact of life. What happened to honor and duty hard work and understanding once's place in the world? Everybody wants to take short cuts. Its right sad.
You're not exactly a pretty store, but at least you're on the Merchant Road right by the Merchant Gate. Everybody who moves to and from the Upper Borough is going to pass right by your door! Now best watch the apprentice I hired to deal with customers when I'm not around. Indeed I best.
Can't trust anyone not to steal from you in this city. A sad fact of life. What happened to honor and duty hard work and understanding once's place in the world? Everybody wants to take short cuts. Its right sad.
Written By Ophelia
July 17, 2016, 1:32 a.m.(1/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
Prince Luca (my brother, by the way) is the most capable, entertaining, witty, handsome, and protectively delightful man in all of Arx. And his happiness means... well. Everything to me. There's never been anyone else who has quite cared and looked after my best interests as well as he has, nor indulged my fancies and hobbies without that judgmental scorn that some might possess. While some might say that he hasn't picked up his sword for awhile, it's obviously lost! What is a man to do? Pish. He might need a haircut and every tiny-tiny while a change of clothes, but he has all the makings at his disposal to be nothing but the very finest.
Written By Ophelia
July 17, 2016, 1:20 a.m.(1/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Ailith
What Seraph Ailith does not understand is that if I was not so very-very well aware of the Right of Sanctuary, any malignant or malevolent flocking of birds would have ceased long ago by my own capable hands. How could she possibly be so very-very-very, VERY mean to think that I could not know better? She threw fire and brimstone at me with such fervor it's a wonder that it didn't set my silks alight! Now, now, don't get me wrong. I love the Gods and I respect and admire the Faithful to a degree that would almost be unhealthy, if it wasn't definitely healthy. I only wanted to seek an amicable accord that would benefit all. All, except maybe the half dozen malignant or malevolent birds which needed to be put down. This is understandable, isn't it?
Written By Ophelia
July 17, 2016, 1:11 a.m.(1/16/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Gareth
It's almost as if Fate has Prince Gareth sitting at almost every single pew or couch that I'm near, as if it was intended to be so. From the time he valiantly came to my aid in regard to the very-very sober and fearful conundrum ongoing at the Shrine of Mangata (do ask me later) to the Gala of Ascension where he was always an arms length away (except for the times he wasn't), we are becoming swift friends that should never part. While he did not seem to enjoy the shine to the very-lovely-scented wound ointment that I tried to dab upon his face in the Salon, he sees through to the very core of me and inspires my obsessions to new heights! It's wonderful! My very-very fantastic plan is that he will assist me at some point with a menagerie of my own, and I, in turn, will keep his dancing feet from every tripping over a brazier again. Oh. I know he's cold and he likes to glare and he tortures people day in and day out without blinking one of those eyes that make other people shrivel. But to me, he's wonderful and I will hear nothing less.
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