Written By Perronne
March 2, 2019, 10:05 a.m.(9/2/1010 AR)
There was a cat in bed with me when I woke up this morning.
No, I don't own a cat! Not that I would mind, necessarily, but I just don't have the time to really take care of an animal, and sometimes I go out on expeditions and it would be cruel to expect the creature to fend for itself - although, if any animal can, a cat would be it. Not that dogs aren't quite good at it - terrifyingly good at it, actually. On some roads, the most fearsome threat you'd face wasn't shavs, but rather feral dogs who'd banded together in packs to hunt whatever suited them. No fear of people, you see, and no love for them, either. They'd mostly go after pack animals, but I've got a bite scar on my arm from an attack when I was on the road. Scary mutts! But, also not the point.
The POINT is that I woke up with a cat that wasn't mine curled up in the small of my back. The perils of summer and having to keep the windows open all the time. He was a bit manky and skittish, but I cut up some dried sausage I had intended for my breakfast, and let him munch on that while I ate the cheese. He didn't want to be touched, and after he was finished, he hopped out of the window and strolled away across the roofs, as proud as you please. Not so much as a 'thank you', of course!
And now there are fleas. Ugh.
No, I don't own a cat! Not that I would mind, necessarily, but I just don't have the time to really take care of an animal, and sometimes I go out on expeditions and it would be cruel to expect the creature to fend for itself - although, if any animal can, a cat would be it. Not that dogs aren't quite good at it - terrifyingly good at it, actually. On some roads, the most fearsome threat you'd face wasn't shavs, but rather feral dogs who'd banded together in packs to hunt whatever suited them. No fear of people, you see, and no love for them, either. They'd mostly go after pack animals, but I've got a bite scar on my arm from an attack when I was on the road. Scary mutts! But, also not the point.
The POINT is that I woke up with a cat that wasn't mine curled up in the small of my back. The perils of summer and having to keep the windows open all the time. He was a bit manky and skittish, but I cut up some dried sausage I had intended for my breakfast, and let him munch on that while I ate the cheese. He didn't want to be touched, and after he was finished, he hopped out of the window and strolled away across the roofs, as proud as you please. Not so much as a 'thank you', of course!
And now there are fleas. Ugh.
Written By Domonico
March 2, 2019, 9:34 a.m.(9/1/1010 AR)
Not long to go.
I'm not nervous. I have no need to be nervous. I've checked the plans and rechecked them.
It's the waiting though that wears on your nerves.
I'm not nervous. I have no need to be nervous. I've checked the plans and rechecked them.
It's the waiting though that wears on your nerves.
Written By Arcadia
March 2, 2019, 5:42 a.m.(9/1/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Ajax
Have you seen the man fight He took down three without barely breaking a sweat!
Written By Martino
March 2, 2019, 2:51 a.m.(9/1/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Elise
This morning, as part of the walk through the city, I heard the bustle from the arena and was welcomed to see the spar between Elise Whisper and my brother Lord Domonico. Now, more than myself, brother was born with sword to hand and a position to command. However, the Whisper did well catching him with a sharp right before later succumbing to the perhaps inevitable.
She is learning quick and once I have that armour made for you - sure you'll be better protected to last an extra round or two.
She is learning quick and once I have that armour made for you - sure you'll be better protected to last an extra round or two.
Written By Mirari
March 1, 2019, 11:17 p.m.(9/1/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Gilroy
I must agree with you! How dare he call potatoes 'simple'! Why with a bit of butter, garlic, rosemary and a pinch of Setarcan spice a potato is quite a fancy dish. Especially served with roast pheasant and goat's cheese.
Truly simple food is: moldly bread and rotten fish.
Truly simple food is: moldly bread and rotten fish.
Written By Vanora
March 1, 2019, 10:45 p.m.(9/1/1010 AR)
There are days when among the tasks necessary for ruling a duchy (or assisting another in doing such), among the many duties that push and pull in a dozen different directions, there is time it sit and catch up with old friends. Whether it is a tea-time discussion of unpleasant business that shifts to pleasant, or a long-overdue party that requires (and allows for) nothing but lazing about in the sun with wine, friends, and family...these things are a balm to the soul.
Refreshing enough to make us feel more prepared for everything else the world demands.
Refreshing enough to make us feel more prepared for everything else the world demands.
Written By Reese
March 1, 2019, 8:43 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
My titles number 436 unique books. I am very honored and pleased to have such a library in my watchtower and I am also honored by all the recent visitors I have had to my library like, Archlector Avary, Lady Lailah, Baroness Ysabel, Prince Jasher, Lady Isabetta and Master Ajax.
I do welcome visitors to the library, so long as the books and items are treated well.
Reese
I do welcome visitors to the library, so long as the books and items are treated well.
Reese
Written By Reese
March 1, 2019, 8:41 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Ahriman
I am very very happy that our father, Prince Ahriman has returned to us. I haven't seen him since I was very very little and I think I remember him or maybe that is just dreams. Either way, I am so glad that he is back. He overcame much to return us and well a weaker man would have been broken by such and would make it.
Reese
Reese
Written By Cambria
March 1, 2019, 8:17 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
I have been thinking about those no longer in my life, lately. Not those passed on, but those who have drifted away. I wonder where they are, and what they might be doing.
Written By Teagan
March 1, 2019, 7:35 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
I am afraid to sleep of late. My dreams have been tumultuous.
I fear what I will see there.
My dreams bring no answers and my waking hours bring even fewer.
What am I become?
I fear what I will see there.
My dreams bring no answers and my waking hours bring even fewer.
What am I become?
Written By Elgana
March 1, 2019, 6:56 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Enid
A very large and very beautiful piece of craftsmanship came into my possession today. It isn't even that I wasn't expecting its arrival, I was, it was just the fact that the beauty of the display case took my breath away. That distinct touch of care and passion is evident in every aspect of its creation. There is no doubt in my mind that the North can boast a great many things and the beautiful work of art that Enid has created for me is just further proof of this fact. I cannot wait to fill it with more beautiful things created by other talented people of the North for Princess Sabella's Compact-wide event series.
I know exactly who I will turn to for additional functional works of art and gods and spirits I haven't even seen the chest she's making yet!
I know exactly who I will turn to for additional functional works of art and gods and spirits I haven't even seen the chest she's making yet!
Written By Aerwyna
March 1, 2019, 3:55 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
I'm so young, just eighteen but I feel I can do anything I set my mind to. I know there's more talent out there and many who may even be more skilled but I think I am a quick enough learner and driven enough to go as far as allowed in this world. I just need to keep my wits about me and focused, I don't want to be taken advantage of.
Written By Gilroy
March 1, 2019, 2:10 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
Look at this fancy lad with his /potatoes/.
Written By Gunther
March 1, 2019, 1:05 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
My Sally,
Reckon I'm doin' just peachy. Some kind lass sent me a statue of you onna account I mentioned my fears of forgettin' your face an' all. And it looks something special. I had it in my room onna account I wanted to look at it all the time. But that just felt wrong so I puts it in the Arena in the Redrain area just so I can sees it when I'm sweepin'. Few fellas noticed it and snickered some. I reckon they just don't the love of a good size woman. Ain't nothin' better in this life that much I know for sure. I sure miss that cushion to snuggle into at night. Ain't nothin' warmer; we coulda slept on ice and you'd keep me toasty you was that beautiful and special. Was a time I'd a just layed them fellas out with my knucks for their snickerin'. Ain't like that no more Sally -- you saw me set to a good path and I'm walkin' it. Thankful to them Gods for you erry day.
Now you know I ain't learn-ed none. Never was into my books onna account I was a mitts sort o' fellow. But that don't mean I'm dumb -- neither. Sometimes I feels like I am though. I struggle when I read fancy words and journals that talk about things big and complicated. I reckon I'm just a salt of the earth fella. I may not know my books but I've survived fifty-five years and been happier'n most could ever ask for in their entire lives. That's smarts. To see a good thing and knows not to muck it up none.
I've stayed out of my cups Sally. Ain't easy with you gone an' all but I have done it. I have been doin' good things. Helpin' folks. Carin' for em'. Teachin' em so that one days they might be able to protect themselves. I been given every red cent I earns here over to the church save for what little I keep back for vittles. Just feels good to be givin' to somethin' whats given to you.
I miss you so. I been prayin' to have the dream again. The one I wrote about the other day an' all. But it ain't come back. I wish it would. Even if I'm sleepin' and I knows its not real I wants it so much. I just, it's hard... onna account you bein' dead -- hard to not get bitter and angry. But I don't. I am better than that.
You taught me despite it all I can and am a good person. That everyone can belong to somethin' and hope ain't never lost.
I miss you, girl. I can't wait until we are together again.
Always yours,
Gunther
Reckon I'm doin' just peachy. Some kind lass sent me a statue of you onna account I mentioned my fears of forgettin' your face an' all. And it looks something special. I had it in my room onna account I wanted to look at it all the time. But that just felt wrong so I puts it in the Arena in the Redrain area just so I can sees it when I'm sweepin'. Few fellas noticed it and snickered some. I reckon they just don't the love of a good size woman. Ain't nothin' better in this life that much I know for sure. I sure miss that cushion to snuggle into at night. Ain't nothin' warmer; we coulda slept on ice and you'd keep me toasty you was that beautiful and special. Was a time I'd a just layed them fellas out with my knucks for their snickerin'. Ain't like that no more Sally -- you saw me set to a good path and I'm walkin' it. Thankful to them Gods for you erry day.
Now you know I ain't learn-ed none. Never was into my books onna account I was a mitts sort o' fellow. But that don't mean I'm dumb -- neither. Sometimes I feels like I am though. I struggle when I read fancy words and journals that talk about things big and complicated. I reckon I'm just a salt of the earth fella. I may not know my books but I've survived fifty-five years and been happier'n most could ever ask for in their entire lives. That's smarts. To see a good thing and knows not to muck it up none.
I've stayed out of my cups Sally. Ain't easy with you gone an' all but I have done it. I have been doin' good things. Helpin' folks. Carin' for em'. Teachin' em so that one days they might be able to protect themselves. I been given every red cent I earns here over to the church save for what little I keep back for vittles. Just feels good to be givin' to somethin' whats given to you.
I miss you so. I been prayin' to have the dream again. The one I wrote about the other day an' all. But it ain't come back. I wish it would. Even if I'm sleepin' and I knows its not real I wants it so much. I just, it's hard... onna account you bein' dead -- hard to not get bitter and angry. But I don't. I am better than that.
You taught me despite it all I can and am a good person. That everyone can belong to somethin' and hope ain't never lost.
I miss you, girl. I can't wait until we are together again.
Always yours,
Gunther
Written By Ysbail
March 1, 2019, 12:56 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Ahriman
As a Prodigal Shaman, and a Member of the Peerage, there are things I have come to accept about living in the compact. My tattoos will likely always set me apart. I do not regret them because of this, they are a part of me and my history. Part of what marked me as a spiritual leader of my people for many years prior to bending the knee to the Crovane so long ago. But it is strange how something that was in my youth a mark of distinction and great honor becomes something shameful and to be feared within the compact. It leaves an immediate impression upon those who first meet me - and there are a number of people who never bother beyond that first impression. Secondly, that my presence in a shrine seems to confuse those who mistakenly believe that the philosophies offered by the old ways must by their very nature be incompatible with the Faith.
And yet here is a man who has experienced the worst the tribes of the abandoned have to offer - and the surreal experience of encountering someone who may have looked very like the captors who held him for 15 long years, in the Shrine of Lagoma.
And he still extended his hand in the offer of mutual friendship.
For this, he shall always have my deepest respect.
And yet here is a man who has experienced the worst the tribes of the abandoned have to offer - and the surreal experience of encountering someone who may have looked very like the captors who held him for 15 long years, in the Shrine of Lagoma.
And he still extended his hand in the offer of mutual friendship.
For this, he shall always have my deepest respect.
Written By Gloriel
March 1, 2019, 12:30 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Lailah
My dearest cousin. You make me smile. Not many people can say that. I enjoy our nighttime talks. I hope to run into you again soon. Like another sister, almost.
Written By Amari
March 1, 2019, 12:28 p.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
I feel like I haven't been the most sociable of late or my attempts to be have fallen flat. There's been friends and acquaintances I've been meaning to see, and haven't. Occasions and events missed, when I probably could have or should have attended. Missives left unanswered or sent into voids from which there's no reply. I'll start tracking people down once I've made some positive progress on the stuff and things which have a habit of creeping in and crowding out the happier thoughts.
At least I got out to the Kismet Carnival. Venturo put on a grand show, and the games were amusing. I played all but one, though it sounded as if Sir Corban won it handily. The shell game was definitely more suited to my natural talents, but I did do fairly well with the puzzles and even the hammer smash. The latter was truly surprising, but I have been training and have some archery muscles now. I shared some of the Fortuitous I won with Baron Uncle Norwood the following day and somehow refrained from using my winner's stein for winners, since I don't want to be a boorish Lady Show Off.
There was also Lisebet's wedding picnic, hosted by her sister Elsbetta. They had an oven for people, which isn't as macabre as it sounds (I think. I didn't try it). It was a pleasant gathering, though were I Lisebet, I'm not sure I'd want to marry out and live somewhere absent those garden pools. Also, apologies again for River. She's weird about cats, even mountain lions, apparently.
At least I got out to the Kismet Carnival. Venturo put on a grand show, and the games were amusing. I played all but one, though it sounded as if Sir Corban won it handily. The shell game was definitely more suited to my natural talents, but I did do fairly well with the puzzles and even the hammer smash. The latter was truly surprising, but I have been training and have some archery muscles now. I shared some of the Fortuitous I won with Baron Uncle Norwood the following day and somehow refrained from using my winner's stein for winners, since I don't want to be a boorish Lady Show Off.
There was also Lisebet's wedding picnic, hosted by her sister Elsbetta. They had an oven for people, which isn't as macabre as it sounds (I think. I didn't try it). It was a pleasant gathering, though were I Lisebet, I'm not sure I'd want to marry out and live somewhere absent those garden pools. Also, apologies again for River. She's weird about cats, even mountain lions, apparently.
Written By Mirk
March 1, 2019, 10:57 a.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
After thought, meditation, and a few conversations with those around me, I decided to accept the title of Elder of the Spirit Walkers. The title still sounds strange beside my name, as it's something that belonged to Cybele alone when I arrived in Arx. I will not attempt to fill her shoes, as she was a person of singular wisdom and she cannot be replaced. Instead, I will serve the Spirit Walkers in my own way, building up the organization she helped to create and, just as important, supporting the people in that organization.
I still feel too small for the role, like a child donning his parent's shoes. I considered saying no. But I went through this same struggle when I was a young man, questioning whether or not to call myself a shaman, whether I deserved to claim that title. I had been traveling for some years, then, and had spoken to many shamans along the way. In that time, I had grown from a supplicant seeking knowledge to a peer discussing our shared calling. Without even noticing, I had become comfortable making offerings on another's behalf, or asking the wisdom of the spirits for a small village or tribe that had no shaman of their own. In other words, I had become a shaman, somewhere along the way.
It would feel strange to debate that question now. Of course I'm a shaman. I've grown into that role, and now it fits me like an old pair of boots after I've walked a hundred miles in them. This isn't quite the same. It's not a question of claiming the title, but accepting it, and the Spirit Walkers are localized, also. Its titles don't always carry the same weight outside of our small community. But I'm hopeful that it will one day feel as natural to call myself an Elder of the Spirit Walkers as it does to call myself a shaman.
I can't express how much it means to me that High Shaman Drea and Vala Khanne have such faith in my abilities.
I still feel too small for the role, like a child donning his parent's shoes. I considered saying no. But I went through this same struggle when I was a young man, questioning whether or not to call myself a shaman, whether I deserved to claim that title. I had been traveling for some years, then, and had spoken to many shamans along the way. In that time, I had grown from a supplicant seeking knowledge to a peer discussing our shared calling. Without even noticing, I had become comfortable making offerings on another's behalf, or asking the wisdom of the spirits for a small village or tribe that had no shaman of their own. In other words, I had become a shaman, somewhere along the way.
It would feel strange to debate that question now. Of course I'm a shaman. I've grown into that role, and now it fits me like an old pair of boots after I've walked a hundred miles in them. This isn't quite the same. It's not a question of claiming the title, but accepting it, and the Spirit Walkers are localized, also. Its titles don't always carry the same weight outside of our small community. But I'm hopeful that it will one day feel as natural to call myself an Elder of the Spirit Walkers as it does to call myself a shaman.
I can't express how much it means to me that High Shaman Drea and Vala Khanne have such faith in my abilities.
Written By Martino
March 1, 2019, 10:22 a.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Willow
Sounds quite the excellent the excellent book, you shall have to also get through it to d for dupion. A thicker spun silk and wool blend that, truly, plays more with the colours as the wool waft alongside a fine silk is a beautiful blend. You must seek out these clothes two that supposedly blend silver, gold or bronze itself into the fibres.
But yes, one would not wish to busy the fabric too much with a pattern or embroidery on top. Fine picks of gemstones would only do.
But yes, one would not wish to busy the fabric too much with a pattern or embroidery on top. Fine picks of gemstones would only do.
Written By Bliss
March 1, 2019, 10:21 a.m.(8/28/1010 AR)
People are scared.
It's not even a doubt in my mind when I'm out here, where raids by the Abandoned are not just a threat but a fact of life, when you're in the smaller towns where even losing one person means they might not have enough food for the winter. I grew up in a city, surrounded by blades and guards. They were more a nuisance to me than anything else back in those days, but being out here is reminding me of those times. The whispered rumors of what the shavs did to groups of soldiers they captured during the war with Southport. The disgusted look on my father's face when it came up.
They've heard the stories of what happened during the Silent War, at the Lodge, while we fought the Gyre. They laugh off the strange rumors of course, but in their eyes is that look for me to laugh with them and reassure them that none of it is true. The hope that they're safer than they worry they might be.
I've been drinking a lot on this trip.
I've thought about wearing a cloak to cover my armor, to hide Vowkeeper, but I think when they realize who I am - when they see me out here - it helps. Just a little. They all want to know why, of course, and 'unfinished business' doesn't sate anyone's curiosity.
So I sing for them. I dance for them. I duel for them and tell them stories of tales in the past. I try to remind them that things aren't as bad as they might seem, that we still need to fight for the world we want, but there's so little I can say. Still, I think their spirits are brighter when I leave.
By the time this reaches Arx, I should be well into the Lyceum. I think I have to make a stop somewhere I've never been.
It's not even a doubt in my mind when I'm out here, where raids by the Abandoned are not just a threat but a fact of life, when you're in the smaller towns where even losing one person means they might not have enough food for the winter. I grew up in a city, surrounded by blades and guards. They were more a nuisance to me than anything else back in those days, but being out here is reminding me of those times. The whispered rumors of what the shavs did to groups of soldiers they captured during the war with Southport. The disgusted look on my father's face when it came up.
They've heard the stories of what happened during the Silent War, at the Lodge, while we fought the Gyre. They laugh off the strange rumors of course, but in their eyes is that look for me to laugh with them and reassure them that none of it is true. The hope that they're safer than they worry they might be.
I've been drinking a lot on this trip.
I've thought about wearing a cloak to cover my armor, to hide Vowkeeper, but I think when they realize who I am - when they see me out here - it helps. Just a little. They all want to know why, of course, and 'unfinished business' doesn't sate anyone's curiosity.
So I sing for them. I dance for them. I duel for them and tell them stories of tales in the past. I try to remind them that things aren't as bad as they might seem, that we still need to fight for the world we want, but there's so little I can say. Still, I think their spirits are brighter when I leave.
By the time this reaches Arx, I should be well into the Lyceum. I think I have to make a stop somewhere I've never been.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.