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Written By Khanne

Sept. 17, 2017, 11:01 p.m.(3/25/1007 AR)

Recently, I asked someone what they thought was most beautiful in life. They answered, and in return asked me for my own response. I think in these times of impending danger, when people fight for their houses, for the Compact, for the good of all our people, and others try to offer support while worrying, hoping their loved ones will return home, it is important to let some light in through the darkness. To think of the good while preparing for what we must do.

So I ask.... anyone who might read this entry into my journals... what is at least one thing you find most beautiful?

I will supply two of my answers here:

Spring mornings in the mountains. As fr north as I lived, snow remained on the ground, at least in patches, sometimes even throughout most of summer. There is something truly magical when the warm air meets the cool mountain and wraps us all in a blanket of mist.

The first brush stroke of paint on a canvas, or charcoal line drawn across the page for a sketch. The birth of inspiration begins in the souls, the heart, the mind, but that first mark is imagination taking form. It is creation.

Written By Khanne

Sept. 10, 2017, 12:14 p.m.(3/10/1007 AR)

This mission to the Gray Forest has seen successes and failures.

We at the camp have seen each other act in bravery and also suffer the after math of hard choices that needed to be made. Many of us have revealed to one another that we have weaknesses, that we need bolstering at times. Many of us are stubborn. Many would generally portray themselves as nothing but stoic back in Arx. Here, we have accepted the shoulder when offered to us to lean on. We have offered our shoulder to others when we could use one ourselves... but someone else needed it more. We have held civilized debates around the fire. We have cried. We have laughed. We have thanked one another.

There have been times we watched the choice someone else made and felt angry or questioned that person about the choice made. There have been times we have questioned ourselves. What could I have done better? Differently? Did I do what was best in that moment? Some may ask those same questions about the actions of others. Most of the time, I believe, it would be seen that yes... that person did what they thought best in that moment. There may have been times when we thought... no. No, what they did was wrong and I still feel angry at their lack of remorse. Regardless of how we have felt, we have pushed on... together, as a team.

A few have asked whether our mission here should be considered a success, or a failure. We did not, perhaps, accomplish all that we hoped, as much as we hoped and lost more than we wanted. I believe in the humanity of those I camp here with. Therefore, I believe that one loss, one loss alone would have felt like too much to most of us. However... I look at this mission as a success. Just as one loss feels like too high a price to be paid, one success is a boon for our side. One shav to bend knee to the Compact instead of that Asshole; one tribe taking arms against those writ-bound to destroy; one Spirit helped to flee from the hunters; One of these things happening is a treasure. We have done this in volumes. We have succeeded.

We must pull back now. Our presence is known and it becomes too dangerous to stay here in the wood. The fight before us looms large on the horizon, and this... this is just the beginning. It is time for us to regroup; to take what lessons and knowledge we learned back to the city and plan. We each have courses of action we must take to prepare, it is only with our combined efforts we will see true victory. During Brand's siege on Arx we came together, working side by side. This is a time to be unified once more, to an even higher degree. It is a time we will see nobles and commoners working side by side. We will see houses that have not worked together in ages put aside their disagreements and lend a hand to one another. It is a time that those of the strongest faith in the Pantheon will witness the blessings of Spirits and help protect them, alongside the shaman who will build shrines to the Gods of Pantheon to honor them.

I speak of this all from the focus of this expedition, because it is in the Forest I sit in my tent and write. But these sentiments spread wider than this single enemy we face. We see wars on the horizon of land and sea. One person recently said something along the lines of - people in the frozen mountains don't give a shit about the sea - but oh, we do... and we must. Just as those whose lives are surrounded by the sea care and must do so about the frozen mountains... Just as we all must care about what happens in forest, on the sea, in the mountains, in the plains, upon the rivers, and even in the desserts of parts unknown, because it affects us all.

In order to not only survive the things we will soon face, but to thrive after our victories we must be unified in our efforts. It may seem like an insurmountable task, that so many people of such different backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and personalities can weave a tapestry towards peace together. But as I sit here at this camp, witnessing all I have witnessed in those that share humble meals of porridge and stew, elbow to elbow around the fire... I see hope, and know that we as the Compact can definitely rise above and be victorious.

We Stand. Tears in our wake, never at our wake. Steel bends, honor holds. No one may harm us unpunished. None Greater. To the last.

Together.

Written By Khanne

Sept. 10, 2017, 12:40 a.m.(3/9/1007 AR)

Today I witnessed what can happen when a people are blinded with fear; fear of the unknown, fear of what they face. They saw something charging, and so wary are they of attacks, they did not stop to ask why... or what... They did not stop to hear my words of warning at first. They attacked. Others tried to make them see too, but still, they fought. Finally... finally they heard us. I guess I need to swear exceedingly loud to be heard by some. Just in time too, the true attackers were noticed before it was too late.

There were too many losses, but one loss is too many, is it not? We beat a massive army though, and for that and the fact the Spirit was able to escape... I am grateful.

I don't know what I would have done had I failed......

Written By Khanne

Sept. 5, 2017, 10:41 p.m.(2/26/1007 AR)

You learn something new every day.

It's a well known saying, and for the most part, is pretty much true, I think. Somehow, in some way, even if it is small... we learn something new every day.... even when sometimes we feel we are not learning enough.

Then there are those days when our minds are blown and we need to jot down notes to keep track of all the things learned in a small time frame.

And the day after when we sit in quiet and try to let that all sink in. Go ahead... let it settle in...

One thing I have learned in the last year or so is this - my shoulders can take a tremendous amount of weight. I shall continue to try to not crumble beneath it all.

Written By Khanne

Sept. 3, 2017, 11:17 p.m.(2/22/1007 AR)

In times of chaos, the best laid plans can go awry.

However, it should be noted, that in times of chaos, the best laid plans must often change. We do not know what actions will be taken towards us at every move, or the motivation behind them. We must adapt for the well being of the party, as well as the mission.

As was discovered, not all could be saved. We all did what we could, what we had to. We should all hold that knowledge close. We helped those that we could.

Written By Khanne

Sept. 3, 2017, 10:38 p.m.(2/22/1007 AR)

Relationship Note on Brianna

I have not been able to connect with my cousin basically since I arrived. She had matters to attend, and when she was in town, it was brief, our times never meeting up. But now, now I have hope. I am thankful and gladdened to hear she appreciates all that I have done, not only for Halfshav, but for Redrain, the Compact, and all. I will continue to work just as hard if not harder, striving to unify people and create broader understanding.... but as I promised, Bri... you are getting a list. Don't you worry... I will make sure you aren't bored.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 27, 2017, 10:51 p.m.(2/8/1007 AR)

The power of Now is extraordinary.

There is a lot that weighs on our shoulders from all different directions; things from the past that haunt us and things that threaten our futures. But when we are able to force ourselves to stop, and to enjoy the moments of Now, it allows us to..... breathe.

We can become so caught up in the chaos and rush of life around us that it is often easy to forget to take time for ourselves. I have been trying to be better about this, since my birthday oaths to myself. But I find myself even better at it as of late. I am plenty busy, nearly overwhelmingly so, but...I am really loving the Now, and all the fresh perspectives it offers me.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 20, 2017, 8:42 p.m.(1/21/1007 AR)

Surprising things have been occurring amidst the great ups and horrific downs that has been life in Arx as of late.

Surprises aren't always pleasant. Neither are they always unwanted. Often, they leave me feeling a bit unsure though. Wary. Skeptical.

Thankfully, I have enough on my mind to distract me from having to over analyze such surprises. I haven't any idea how I am going to find time to do all that I aim to do, or if I will be successful in doing them; but I will try.

My faith in the Spirits helps give me the strength and focus I will need. It is my hope that they will hear me, and perhaps, I will find at least some of the multitude of answers that I seek with their guidance down the path.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 18, 2017, 11:41 p.m.(1/18/1007 AR)

I am thoroughly exhausted. But it is a good exhausted. I have not yet held an event in the city, or well, at any time. It wasn't my thing. I was beginning to think I was going to have to cancel altogether, when Marian said, 'hey! So I was going to do this thing, maybe we can combine our ideas?' And so, Northernlude was born. (Thank you Princess Marian!)

We had great support from the Redrain High Lord, who helped fund the event on behalf of the fealty, and many others helped as well. It felt good to bring us all together, even those who could not be in attendance. Thank you all! And thank you Magpie, my protege, for your help too!

And to everyone who was able to attend, thank you! I hope you had at least half of the enjoyment from the evening as I did! (And if anyone wishes to still purchase any of the items, let me know) - I meant what I said at the end. I feel it is very important to keep balance in life. Joys balance sorrows and help us weather the storms. And man, are we, as a Compact, ever facing some storms. Storms full of black ichor and... things. My heart goes out to the Thrax and what they are now having to endure. I have every faith in them that they will meet this head on and overcome.

I, for one, plan to help them as much as I am able. I have already reached out to those I am in contact with on occasion to offer my assistance. I urge everyone who is able to do so as well. Whether it be helping with the economic hardship of having to rebuild a fleet, shipping in goods from your lands that they will need, or doing the physical down and dirty labor of rebuilding what needs rebuilt.

As a Compact, we may not all always see eye to eye on matters important to our various Great Houses, but we are all still in this together. This too, is a balance. Help those who need aide, and they will be more apt to help you when you find yourself in darker times.

So to those who attended tonight, thank you for celebrating the beauty of winter as we in the north know it. And to those who had more serious matters to attend to this eve, know you have the support out there to help should you need.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 17, 2017, 3:43 p.m.(1/15/1007 AR)

Relationship Note on Reigna

You betcha she's willing!

I mean... I would be honored and thrilled to be a frequent guest in your home. I find your conversation engaging and joyful. It would be my utmost pleasure, Countess Reigna, to call upon you as a friend.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 13, 2017, 10:23 p.m.(1/7/1007 AR)

This past week was the best I have had in a very long time. I attended the tourneys, both of which were thrilling, exhilerating to watch! Though, I must admit, I was a bit concerned about some of the competitors today. Thank all that is Blessed that there were so many healers available to help the fallen combatants! I fear some would have fared far, far worse without the hard work and dedication of all of them, Mercy and non-Mercy alike. I truly enjoyed the joust though! There is just something about watching the lances break and shatter. I can't explain why I enjoy it so, but I do. I was able to let loose and truly just, enjoy myself, letting go of some of the weight that has born down on my shoulders as of late.

AND! I have met so many amazing people! Captains and Admiral Generals, Ladies and Lords, Princesses... and the Count and Countess Keaton. They are truly lovely people who have invited me into their home for conversation. Reigna is the epitome of the gracious hostess. Let me tell you, if ever I feel the need to be all fancy and stuff, I am taking lessons from her. They have made me feel so welcomed. Yesterday... or was it the day before? Was filled with smiles and thought provoking conversations. I find myself looking forward to further gatherings for more of such.

Oh, and, I invited the King to dinner with the Redrain fealty... Thankfully Darren is on board with that. Maybe I should seek those lessons sooner rather than later.... And, I invited someone to brunch... and I was invited to share a drink, which I am also greatly looking forward to.

A good week, yes. A good week indeed.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 13, 2017, 10:08 p.m.(1/7/1007 AR)

A new year has come. Yes, I know I am a few days late. I spent the first day of 1007 much like any other; a lot of meditation and some personal soul searching.

What will the new year bring? It is anyone's guess. I made a commitment to myself with my birthday, past a few months ago. I am truly trying to stick to them, even if some of my goals have proven to be.... impossible, it seems. Heartbreakingly impossible. Still, I carry on. There is no use letting myself fall when I find a bump in the road. If I trip, I must dust myself off and continue on. Though, I would much rather leap over the bumps...

Living alone in the mountains for so long, and being here now for about a year and a half... gives a bit of a strange perspective, looking back. When I first arrived, the chaos, the crowded feeling, was overwhelming. First, I tried to adapt, to fit in, but much of the time, I felt as if it were a fake portrayal of myself. Then, life... well, I had many dark days. Many. Dark. Days. Many evenings spent in sorrow of lost loved ones; friends, family, lovers. It was... rough.. coming out of that darkness. Just so much happened all at one time, I thought it all might consume me. But, i had to stay strong enough to fulfill my duties, and that kept me going. I came out the other side, and really, I feel more true to myself than I did a year ago. I smile, I laugh, but I let some of the emotion of me show too. Not.. for long, perhaps. But there are glimpses to be seen.

I have learned a lot this past year. I have learned to love... and learned the loss of love. I have held on to hope when all seemed lost, and learned that it will see me through, somehow. I have learned that it is okay to ask for help at times. I have also learned that far too many people cannot be relied on, so even if you ask for help, have a back up plan. I have learned that people -will- let you down, horribly and painfully. I am not perfect, this I have always known. I have let people down too. I have learned that it is possible to make amends for those times, but sometimes, you have to swallow your pride to do so. I have learned that being alone in the city is not at all like being alone in the mountains. It is a much more empty feeling here. But, adjusting with that knowledge, I have also learned that it is possible to not feel so alone, if you take a few steps out and meet people you have not known before. I have learned that, wherever you might imagine yourself a year from now, however you imagine yourself... You might be incredibly wrong, but that you might find yourself in the best place you could be.

Yes, yes. I know I am writing far too much... Probably the most revealing I have ever been in a white journal... I will stop the retrospective, and write a new journal about the week that I have had, instead of the year.

Happy New Year to all of Arx and our allies everywhere! And to those who live on in my memory and not within my reach... I love you, and miss you, always.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 7, 2017, 7:41 p.m.(12/23/1006 AR)

I may be slightly ashamed to admit that I am amused by this exchange between the lovely Guildmaster Joscelin, and a person I do not know by the name of Oliver. I only barely know Joscelin (though I wish I knew her better) but know that going against her takes some brass ..uh, gumption. I'll keep it clean.

All in all though, it makes me curious to see the crafting abilities of this Oliver, which is to say... the battle of beginning funds has certainly served as publicity.

Perhaps soon he will be too busy working on commissions to remember this little financial dance.

You can make scones for me, Joscelin. The Spirits do not tend to ask for money.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 6, 2017, 9:38 p.m.(12/21/1006 AR)

I have noticed that journals in Arx seem to go through phases. Where, a theme seems to come across and a vast majority of journals written at that time pertain to such. I remember a time where love was discussed, and this is the.. third time, perhaps? That I remember puns being the go-to thing. There are times when poetry is popular. Other times it seems the thing to do is make passive aggressive swipes at one another that are perhaps thought to be veiled, but come across plain as day. Then there are the contests, such as the animals. I would write about Serenity... but she is a calm bird, unless she is going in for the kill (or delivering a note, but I do hope she does so with grace and calm so as not to startle those who receive missives from me in this manner). But now, it seems, some people have taken to sending off sketches to the scholars to record. They's been cute, I have to say.

I wonder if I should start painting my art for the journals instead of weaving words. I keep most of my artwork hidden away... Hmm, things to ponder.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 6, 2017, 9:28 p.m.(12/21/1006 AR)

I too attended the dinner party of white. The decor was lovely. Magical even. I attended in further effort to put myself back out there, stop being a hermit... yada yada... I was probably still far more quiet than most, and couldn't bring myself to join the busier tables, despite my desire to speak with Prince Fergus and Princess Marian some more. Still, I was blessed to have good conversation with some others; namely Lady Aislin and the Count and Countess Keatons. I think both conversations give me hope to speak to them each again in the future.

I received thank yous from both Princess Alarissa and Lady Monique. That was a pleasant surprise. I must say, Princess Alarissa is the epitome of grace and manners, at least in public. I was disappointed I did not get a chance to speak to her at the party, but she did try to speak to all that she could. They both hosted a fun evening for us all.

It still feels strange to be in the Valardin Ward... I hope in time it will be less so. I am haunted by memories every time I step foot on their grounds. Time heals, they say... I can only hope so.

Written By Khanne

Aug. 3, 2017, 8:23 a.m.(12/14/1006 AR)

Relationship Note on Magpie

It's been about a year since I started looking for someone to take on as a protege. I didn't advertise that I was, no. It was more a personal search. As with most decisions I make, I spent a lot of time thinking about it. The key qualities I was searching for may not have been the same as what other Patrons look for. There had to be talent, of course, and I had to feel there was potential for great success in some form... But more so, I wanted someone I could also count as friend.

Magpie is my first protege, and I am very pleased to be able to say so. We've had a great working friendship thus far (despite all the shit he has bothered me with *wink), and I believe it is one that will continue to go well. I am excited for the opportunities this will provide both of us, and greatly anticipate seeing what he accomplishes with this endeavor. He's already made a great name for himself with Highway Robbery and the lovely collectible figurines, I can only imagine his woodworking endeavors will lead to the same successes.

Written By Khanne

July 21, 2017, 8:31 a.m.(11/16/1006 AR)

I attended a rather interesting gathering of people last night. I have been trying to get out and meet more people since my inner circle has become so very small. It wasn't a setting that allowed me to speak one on one to develop budding friendships but allowed me to learn more about those around me nonetheless. There was curiosity, mystery, amusement, and a touch of melancholy (at least for me). Things said were not full course meals of information that left one stuffed to the gills and ready to flop in the comfiest of seats. Instead, they were like little teaser tastes that often left you craving a bit more.

Which really gives us (or at least me) all the more reason to reach out to those we were made curious by to get another sampling.

Written By Khanne

July 16, 2017, 11:40 p.m.(11/7/1006 AR)

Relationship Note on Lianne

It was quite nice to catch up with Lianne... sorry, Marquessa Lianna... the other day. Since my arrival in Arx, she and I have often seemed to be stuck in an orbit that often brought us close to one another, then moved us apart once more. Each time we have spoken, whether in person or via messenger, we have found that we have many unlikely commonalities. Looking at us, one might not expect us to be similar at all... it is kind of amazing how often we can easily relate to one another.

I hope this time our orbits will remain closer a bit longer. I look forward to talking with her more.

Written By Khanne

July 14, 2017, 3:18 p.m.(11/3/1006 AR)

Why not?

Scents that please my senses or bring me back to memories that make me smile wistfully:

Cedar
Earthen Loam
Softly fragrant rose
Snow
Whiskey
Books
Tea
Freshly chopped wood
A warm fire in a stone hearth (especially in the cold of a mountain winter)
Apples and Apricots
Paints

And some other things but my list is already long...

Written By Khanne

July 9, 2017, 2:31 p.m.(10/21/1006 AR)

Congratulations to Fergus and Marian for their marriage.

Congratulations to Anze and Calypso for their upcoming wedding.

Congratulations to Darren and Donella for theirs as well.

Seems Redrain men are rather adept at finding wonderful women to marry. I look forward to getting to know each of them more so than I already do. I wish them all the happiness in the world, and may the Gods and the Spirits alike, bless their unions.

Congratulations too to those I do not know who have recently spoken here of impending nuptials, or even possibilities. May everything work out for all those involved whether it be love or political alliance, or combinations thereof.

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