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Written By Lisebet

Feb. 20, 2019, 9:43 a.m.(8/10/1010 AR)

I always am happy to make new friends, and to have acquaintances deepen. I look forward to further exploration of things in common, differences and new experiences.

In other news, I slept peacefully last night. I think that is a good thing.

Written By Godric

Feb. 20, 2019, 9:17 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Thena

Should I start the cupcake delivery again? Asking for Cujo.

Written By Delilah

Feb. 20, 2019, 9:12 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

I picked up the pen in earnest for the first time the other day. It felt strange to set my hand back to mapping out shapes of incomplete isles and find the holes of our history laid out there. Nothing great, I fear, that would reconstitute the understanding of the Compact since the Reckoning. But a small piece, all the same, that could lead to greater exploration.

Good thing my boots are ready to go.

Written By Martino

Feb. 20, 2019, 8:55 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

The naval exercises with my brother, went by excellently.

It was so impressive to see such a diverse group of navies come together and take part. Not a thing went wrong, although I always knew it
would not. His command, the drills and the exercises all went smooth, and I am looking forward now to the next run.

This might not be the last time I am out at sea.

Written By Shard

Feb. 20, 2019, 5:13 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

I've always been what I am. None of us, myself included, knew exactly how far that went, but I am what I am and I am who I am, and I didn't suddenly become someone entirely different just because of a revelation at an Assembly. Perceptions are what changed. My bloodline did not.

For the record, I have accepted the title, insofar as I can right now. It's an enormous mess, but it can be worked out.

For the record, I could have walked away from the Valorous Few. I considered it. I've always been largely terrible at being a sellsword. But they're my crew now, and Audric trusted me to handle it. How can I, theoretically, be trusted with an entire kingdom if I can't take care of the people who are my responsibility right this moment?

For the record, it's definitely weird. And awkward. And a mess. I don't disagree. And while I might find it irritating and maybe a little insulting that people would suddenly find me extra-foreign and untrustworthy because of where my family originally came from, it's only really a step up from just being normal foreign and untrustworthy because of where /I/ came from.

I'm not a very reassuring person by nature, but I'll offer this: none of my positions or opinions, like them or hate them, have changed. None of my priorities have changed; they might expand in the future, but they haven't /changed/. And I think, honestly, though I've certainly made missteps and mistakes, what I've done since arriving here in the Compact largely speaks for itself.

Written By Bhandn

Feb. 20, 2019, 1 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

I never thought I'd find myself /wanting/ to go to a competition involving pies. So much has changed in this past year. She would have been one of the first to try and bury my face in one, and probably everyone else there too, laughing and squealing when she was coated in the juice of berries herself. I can see it as if it had really happened that way, even though it did not. She'd be happy to hear that a part of me found it fun. It made the ache go down less.

I'm trying. That was what I promised, wasn't it?

Written By Zeriax

Feb. 20, 2019, 12:51 a.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

Look at me go, Captain.

Threw some knives and got myself all cut up at the Sip n' Spar, hosted by the gracious Princess Valencia Velenosa. The event was a wonderful success! My date and I had a wonderful time (I'm kidding Princess You Know Who, I just want to make you blush). I drank and drank, and was obnoxious and loud. Quite the excuse, 'Oh, he's just a rowdy commoner', and 'he's how many ales in?'. There was great company, great conversation, and a number of others I had yet to make proper introductions with. To those of you who were present, but I had not interacted with on any meaningful level, I will see you in the coming days. As Count Athaur Rivenshari, Lady Mikani Redreef, and Princess Roxana Grayson can attest to, I was in fact, not as brutish and obnoxious as I made myself out to be. The showman you saw on the cutting room floor, however, was entirely me. Perhaps I will speak with this 'Caspian' fellow? I much enjoyed performing, even though I was leaving myself open to getting stabbed. Everywhere.

Watching the fights in the arena was quite the experience as well, and to the Whisper who would simply not die, I say this; May Lagoma forever watch over you. I think you'll need it, the way you took all-comers. You took on some of the best known fighters in the compact, if I'm to believe the words that night, and still managed to stand back up for more. It's truly admirable. The next time you and I have a rematch, don't be surprised if you're laid out again though. I hear I'm a good lay.

Oh, is that not how the saying goes?

My mistake, sorry. If only there was a way to white out the ink I put upon these pages to start again. Oh well. Aside from taking part in a fun night at the Hart, I also had a ''wonderful'' home cooked dinner, prepared by Sis. She's one of Natalia Whisper's aides, and certainly knows her dishes. Plenty of conversation over the dinner table, rounding out another pleasant evening. Not quite as exciting as the Sip n' Spar, but not everything has to be full-gallop all day everyday. It was relaxing.

This new day seemed to be entirely reserved for participating with the community. After my morning exercises at the Training Center (Thank you again for the recommendation Lord Domonico Malvici), I quickly made my way to the Society of Explorer's Charter Hall. I set up as many decorations as I could, and set out the drinks and other refreshments I 'borrowed' from the Academy. And other places. I'll replace those bottles Natalia, don't you worry. Compared to the impressive decorative skills of many of our more prestigious interior designers, my little bits of coloured string and re-arrangement of pre-existing chairs, tables, and chalkboards was rather paltry. Even so, I think the coloured chalk was a nice touch, and people seemed to enjoy it. Explorers gathered in a slow trickle in, popping in and out throughout the day, rather than all at once. I suppose that was only to be expected, considering our line of work, but overall it felt like a success. People came together. Shared their time and experiences with each other, as was the intent, and all left having learned something about their fellow colleagues. Not to mention we learned about...well, I'm sure you'll all just have to read about it in The Stacks, now won't you? Say hello to Marquessa Sasha Sana, and take joy in her new-found wellness.

After our Meet n' Greet between Explorers, I tore off my tunic (Pulled it off carefully and folded it neatly) and sprinted full tilt towards the War of the Berries. For days I'd been looking forward to throwing pies at people, if not actually getting pied myself. On the way there, it was a little awkward but I changed out of my nice pants silk pants and into my lounging pants from home, much to the...I would say horror, but I'm sure the maidens in the street were more impressed and appreciative of what they witnessed while I was in transition between states of dress. Then I pied some other fair maidens in the face, once I arrived. By the time I made my presence known, there were many others who were already covered in berry juices, and ''somehow'' I remained entirely berry-free. Another excuse to run around without my shirt on through the streets, I suppose. Not that any of the maidens really minded. I even managed to win a prize! Never before have I ever had in my possession a ''perfume''. This one is called 'Winter's Grove'. It smells nice, but that's the point I suppose. Lady Lorna Deepwood, many thanks for your contributions. Not only is my wardrobe and my face making the transition from wild man to civilized citizen, but now I will smell like one as well.

Not that I'm going to remain this way for too long. Don't worry, Archeress. I may wear the clothes, the aromas, and the cleaner cuts...but this heart will never be tamed.

I exchanged words with miss Penrose, thanking her for her contribution. One could tell much love and care went into baking those pies, so I thought it only right I take a couple extra for my Patron, her man, and her attendees, Sis and Podraig. They're delicious, trust me. Or, more like, trust Lady Peri Seliki and Lady Kaia Bisland. They should know first hand how they taste, after all. Thank you once again to the gracious host and hostess of the event, Lady Delilah Whitehawk, and Duke Malcolm Shepherd. It was berry nice.

Now we just have to start planning for the one with all the (the rest of this section is blotted out entirely with black ink, as if to cover up what was written after the fact). It'll be wonderful, and I think I know just who else to invite.

Written By Sparte

Feb. 19, 2019, 11:18 p.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

I like the purple of a hill covered in bellflowers, the rustling petals in a breeze that are as soft as they are plentiful. The perfect bed for a tired shepherd. Purple rolling down like a splash of paint across a tilted canvas, a canvas that same shepherd would roll down given the chance.

So that is my favorite color. No mystery needed.

Written By Perronne

Feb. 19, 2019, 9:57 p.m.(8/9/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Vincenzo

After a conversation in the tavern, and now reading a particular journal, I absolutely challenge Vincenzo Villente to make cabbages the new fashion in Arx. Whether that is pink cabbage hats, or cabbage dresses, or whatever!

This is a thing that should happen, and I will happily promise him a reasonable boon of his choice if he chooses to take up the challenge and succeeds. If he's interested, he can contact me so that we might determine the terms of success!

Written By Thena

Feb. 19, 2019, 9:15 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

I'm weary of symbolic gestures. I feel so much better in the realm of the tangible, where I can strike an enemy and see him fall.

Written By Rysen

Feb. 19, 2019, 9:11 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

Princess Helena hosted a poetry reading recently in the reading room of the Vellichorian Academy. Having never visited before, I was amazed to discover that the Academy posses many fine texts of music and poetry. Though many were in attendance, the only person I recognized was Lady Acantha, and I thank the gods and spirits for that friendly face.

Several poets in attendance presented their work publicly with skill and passion. When the Princess asked for volunteers to share extemporaneous verse on the topic of "choice," a man whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting named Lord Sebastian shared. His verse was brilliant: the meter, imagery, use of rhyme and the affection displayed in such potent words to his lover were awe inspiring. I also shared, and found the reception warmer than I could have possibly imagined.

Various poets also presented works they had prepared previously, including the hostess, Princess Helena - and what genius she displayed! Moving us with flowing words and well wrought rhymes from peace and tranquility to the tumult of wild storms! Then arose a woman of wild aspect and fiery auburn hair, who I came to learn is named Lady Monique Greenmarch. She recited her poem, and smooth and well-crafted verse it was not - and yet it, too, partook of the elemental energy of life so necessary for true poetry - nor will I ever speak ill of any poet with the will and courage to present her work. Something tells me though, that whatever problems Lady Monique may encounter, a lack of courage will never be among them. Finally, Lady Miranda presented a poem that held in essence some powerful love, separated from her, perhaps, by some great distance, movingly conveyed in images of the wind and sea.

Here, my muse, you are not alone, and in the company of true brothers and sisters. I enjoyed every moment in that room, and I eagerly await the next occasion to hear such brilliant verse.

Written By Willow

Feb. 19, 2019, 8:56 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Lydia

I finally had the good fortune to be able to meet face to face with the Duchess of my House. it was worth the wait in every sense of the word. Also, northern short girl solidarity!

Written By Lucita

Feb. 19, 2019, 8:52 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Lou

Learning about part of how Lady Sasha got her cure from Lou at the Explorers meeting was quite interesting. She tells stories so well, you almost feel a part of it, not just a listener.

Written By Jaenelle

Feb. 19, 2019, 7:36 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Joscelin

There is a difference between plans and the physical. One can purchase the materials, one can come up with grand ideas for how something should look, but there is something to be said about holding the pieces in your hand and marveling at what can only be said as being better than imagination. It is not only jewelry, it has become more than metal and baubles and sparkly bits. They are beautiful works of art, and I don't believe I have ever owned something as breathtaking as this set.

Thank you, Joscelin. There are no words.

Written By Valenzo

Feb. 19, 2019, 5:24 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

The more I dig, the bigger fool I feel for digging.

Life seemed so simple before that Gods-damned mirror.

Written By Helena

Feb. 19, 2019, 3:37 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

I was thrilled to see so many new faces at the third of my little poetry readings! I may consider making the next one a theme, and giving a prompt ahead of time to encourage prepared pieces. The impromptu writings always delight me as well. Thank you to all who came out, both new faces and those who’ve blessed me with their presence each time. Your words are all gifts, and those who didn’t read, thank you for listening to those of us who did.

Written By Helena

Feb. 19, 2019, 3:37 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

I was thrilled to see so many new faces at the third of my little poetry readings! I may consider making the next one a theme, and giving a prompt ahead of time to encourage prepared pieces. The impromptu writings always delight me as well. Thank you to all who came out, both new faces and those who’ve blessed me with their presence each time. Your words are all gifts, and those who didn’t read, thank you for listening to those of us who did.

Written By Radhilde

Feb. 19, 2019, 3:26 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

Relationship Note on Umbroise

My beautiful and stalwalt elder sister. Well my only one now.

Written By Vincenzo

Feb. 19, 2019, 12:53 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

I’m working on establishing additional shops in a few cities, the merchants have been very receptive on that goal. Perhaps there’s opportunity to bring the best of Arvum fashion to the world instead of being so easily impressed by outside influence. Then again, I wouldn’t mind working with more steelsilk or other fabrics.

I met a peacocking Sword and they seem interesting.

I'm creating draft sketches of outfits made of fireweave which are made for maybe a warmer climate with lots of flowing streamers.

I might be sketching out a cabbage beret too, to be dyed pink.

Written By Peri

Feb. 19, 2019, 10 a.m.(8/8/1010 AR)

I would like to meet people who have experienced exile. I want to learn more the experiences of exiled. I do not know how likely it is I would meet someone who is currently exiled, but perhaps someone who has returned from exile would be willing to speak with me. I would maintain confidentiality.

I do not know if anyone would want to disclose their experiences publicly in the whites. Perhaps some scholar could record an anonymous account of exile if no one is willing to speak it on it with another.

I ask this because one day I may be responsible for carrying out justice for my house. I want to know the consequences of my choices.

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