Skip to main content.

Written By Medeia

Jan. 12, 2021, 3:10 a.m.(9/25/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Yuri

Lord Yuri Tessere arrived in the city about a week before the attack that claimed my uncle's life. I had met him on his very first day in the city - well, his first as an adult - while meeting with Marquis Gaspar in the Tessere gardens. I had no idea that the man I saw dueling an imaginary foe would become a dear friend, though that process started off slow. Partly because I was sunk into a pit of grief so soon after meeting him. He was very understanding and has always been since. He is quick to offer the highest of praise, to join in a dance, to accept a challenge, and share in his company. I have yelled at him and been forgiven, I have tended his injuries, he has dipped me to the floor while dancing and not dropped me, we have lamented the lack of sauces in certain cuisines, and shared many bottles of wine. It seems only appropriate that I could be there for him in his grief. It breaks my heart to see someone I care for hurt so deeply. He does not deserve to have the color and flavor bled from the world.

Written By Medeia

Jan. 9, 2021, 2:27 a.m.(9/19/1014 AR)

There are a lot of exciting things coming up! I'll be hosting my first party at Eswyndol, which is not the first event I've hosted on behalf of Eswynd - that would have been the Prodigal Games, but it is the first at our home. My home. I'm looking forward to having people over to celebrate the end of summer in our beautiful spring-fed stone grotto. The apple and pear trees have been giving fresh fruit lately, and the berry bushes are very nearly done producing fruit. The mint is getting leggy with lovely purple blooms. The courtyard is just wonderful as we transition into autumn, and I hope everyone who comes enjoys it.

Some of you may have heard that our house is bringing a shiny new thing to market. Deeplight Coral! This special coral is unique to the waters around our island and sparkles in the light like a highly faceted diamond. We'll be holding a ball and auctioning off a unique necklace featuring the coral, designed and crafted by Master Ripley. It will be spectacular! I saw the planned menu for the evening, too, and I might need to rethink my dress so I can try a little bit of everything. Speaking of my dress, I can't wait to show it off. Come in your best oceanic and Mangata inspired outfits!

I also was approached by Mother Bianca to assist with the Good Harvest and Days of Libation celebrations! Princess Zara is hosting the Good Harvest celebration, I'll be hosting the first Day of Libation, and Mistress Caprice is hosting the second. More details on these holydays will be coming, but I'm definitely looking forward to finding out what the Libation of the Year is!

I've had reason to pray to Mangata more often as of late. And I recently had the chance to meet Mother Madeleine. It could all be a coincidence of the fact that I have joined a house of seafaring people, and thus Mangata is more prevalent in my life as a consequence, but the fact that many of the events I am committed to (including ones not mentioned here) all tie back to her as we continue to prep for a war at sea makes me wonder if there is some message I might be meant to receive? Ah, but that is probably quite silly to think. There is little reason for any god to try to speak to me. In any case, I am thrilled for the opportunities I am able to take advantage of and grateful to everyone else involved in all of these plans.

Written By Medeia

Jan. 2, 2021, 9:38 p.m.(9/7/1014 AR)

I recently had the joy of returning to Saikland Greens for the first time since I came to the city nearly a year ago, and while it is no longer my home since marriage, a piece of my heart will always belong there. The only thing more exciting than that in itself was being able to share the experience with my husband and my marquessa, and some two dozen others as I hosted the Midsummer Mirrorball at the Grand Mirrored Ballroom of the Thirteenth - a cherished and underutilized location. I was sad that I didn't get to see Neilda while I was there, though. She was out with the Saikland ships doing some training exercises the whole time. I'm sure we will see each other, soon.

Of note at the ball: Princess Sorrel danced with Baroness Ember in a display so spectacular one could be forgiven for thinking they were celestial beings orbiting one another in time to the music. And Ember certainly wore something. I think. It may well have been paint, actually. Duchess Calista was radiant. Count Duarte seems to always have a party follow him. Marquis Gaspar and Lord Yuri were exemplars of Lycene charm, as always. And, I was delighted by how many new people I got to meet. A Harlequin! Lady Jennyva of House Shepherd, whom I look forward to getting to know more. And Admiral Scylla, an exceptional woman.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 29, 2020, 10:49 p.m.(8/27/1014 AR)

This afternoon, I had the great pleasure of hosting the Prodigal Games on the beach with Marquessa Norah Eswynd. There was a mast carry, a warrior gauntlet, and oar running! Of course, there was also plenty of stout to go around and prizes for the winners! I'm especially excited about the prizes because the three winners are the first people outside of Eswyndol to own our island's rare and gorgeous Deeplight Coral. The winners were Dame Felicia Harrow (mast carry), Lady Thea Malvici (warrior gauntlet), and Samira Culler (oar running). Congratulations are in store for all three if you see them around. I'd also like to thank and congratulate the other participants: Lord Wash Kennex, Lord Drake Wyvernheart, Lady Maya Redreef, Duke Ryhalt Farshaw, and Yrsa.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 26, 2020, 3:20 p.m.(8/20/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Dio

In recent weeks, I have found the most unexpected - but pleasant and fruitful - friendship in Marquis Dio Seraceni. Several nights back, he was good enough to let me take up a space in his home to commence work immediately after an evening meeting. There was so much to do that I found myself finally retreating from his hospitality come morning, having borrowed several of his staff as my own to deliver messages and even hosting a few emergency meetings as if the home were mine to command for such things. Never once did the marquis make me feel as if I had overstayed or overstepped. In all our dealings, he has been a gentleman and seen to my protection. (I think he actually growled at a man on my behalf, once.) I am grateful the Compact has him dedicated to its protection.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 19, 2020, 5:48 p.m.(8/7/1014 AR)

I have recently been appointed as a professor in the Apothecary College. I am honored that Professor Orick has not only taken the time to invest in me as one of his students but now places his trust in me to aid the college's other students as he has done for me. Once things have settled, I will launch a series of special workshops and seminars on a variety of topics - in addition to the usual course curriculum. I am excited for the possibilities that this brings to all of us!

Written By Medeia

Dec. 17, 2020, 11:45 p.m.(8/3/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Venturo

I have, over the past couple of months, had the great pleasure of getting to know and work with Messere Venturo Thayne. In that time, I have been impressed time and again by his vibrant storytelling, masterful hand at brewing, earnest desire to know people, and rare ability to speak and listen well and in equal measure. For both projects we are working on, he has been instrumental in ensuring they run smoothly, and I am grateful for his input that challenges me and pushes the end result to be better than if I had tackled them alone. Today, I was reminded what a privilege it is to be acquainted with this man when I read his recent journal about the tragedy that befell the Kismet Carnival in Redreef Shores.

Venturo's promise to find employment for former thralls is not only close to my heart, but inspiring. As such, I pledge my assistance to his endeavor. If there is knowledge I can share, a skill I can teach, to ensure the success of such individuals, my time is offered freely. I trust him in this.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 13, 2020, 6:06 p.m.(7/23/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Ciro

There are things in this life that do not always make sense. In fact, most things do not always make sense. However, I do my best to understand and seek out those who know more than me. I share my knowledge openly, in the hope of ensuring others may gain understanding as well.

And so it pains me, truly, that I have lived through the circumstances that led to this situation, and I cannot explain how exactly it came to pass. In a swirl of chaos and smoke, in the throes of wild-eyed acting with a smattering of odd luck... We have become jointly responsible for a decrepit distillery on a southern island.

May the gods have mercy on us.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 12, 2020, 10:02 a.m.(7/20/1014 AR)

The story of a bride snatching up an octopus in her bare hand just after swearing her oaths to her new husband in order to keep it from entangling a Godsworn is, well, rather unbelievable. But I suspect there is no other way our wedding could have gone. Perhaps it is a sign that Mangata smiled upon us in that moment, as we stood in the imported waters of the Mourning Isles within the atrium shrine at the Thrax estate. If nothing else, we are blessed with an abundance of friendship. The sheer outpouring of well wishes is more than I can individually address here. However, every single guest, every single gift, every single note, is cherished.

I do want to commit a few notes of gratitude to history: Princess Alarissa has been exceptionally kind and welcoming. Her offer to assist with the wedding and providing the shrine for use was a gift I never expected. She is an exemplar of grace. Marquessa Norah's decisive action, unwavering certainty, and continued support have put my life on a course I could not have imagined a year ago but now cannot see having been any other way. And Blessed Avary, your words have ushered forth a new alliance between houses and turned the page to the next chapter of our lives. Perhaps someday I can properly express how meaningful it was to have you, specifically, be the one to do so. So too, Baroness Lucita should be commended for seeing a surprising opportunity and taking it, making difficult decisions for the benefit of her house, and being steadfast in her commitment to Saikland Greens.

May Eswynd and Saik find enduring strength, flourishing growth, and lasting friendship through this union.

I should check with Neilda to learn what happened to the octopus. I wouldn't have trusted anyone else to pass it off to.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 8, 2020, 1:38 a.m.(7/11/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Fortescue

Some five years ago, while visiting Southport to do some work with Lord Martino Malvici on behalf of House Saik, I had the wonderful fortune of meeting Fortescue Antoni. I couldn't tell you now what it was we initially bonded over - wine snobbery? our fabulous outfits? some joke at Martino's expense? - but it was enough to span the distance when I returned to Saikland. Over the years, we remained close through correspondence and my occasional visits to Southport. When I came to Arx, it quickly became apparent that I would need a personal assistant to help me manage all of my various duties, and, one day while trying to decide who to hire for the task, Martino had the brilliant idea to call Fortescue to the city, too.

And I can say: It has been wonderful. We've accomplished a lot together. Having him at my side has made existing in the city so much easier. Which is why I can also say: The last week has been hard. Scholar, the opportunity arose for him to be promoted into House Saik proper as steward. How could I have said no? He deserves the chance to have some authority. Gods know, stewarding the whole house will likely be a reprieve from being my assistant.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 7, 2020, 6:55 p.m.(7/11/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Svana

Scholar, I am a woman of my word.

Svana Grayhope had twins. I humbly admit that I was wrong. And, the second born of this set of twins will have their formal education paid for by me.

Written By Medeia

Dec. 3, 2020, 5:35 a.m.(7/2/1014 AR)

Another fine dinner, Scholar. I even set aside the time to come recount it directly, given the dinner was also a fundraiser to help with the Great Cathedral restoration.

You see, there’s a wine my family produces that has been a family-only wine for a few generations now. Each vintage is usually a small run, and it takes at least eight years to go from vine to glass - so, I think we could be forgiven for coveting it. That coveting allowed the wine to be favored by my uncle. Some people know he carried a pouch of wine spices around to season his wine by the glass. Well, I was inspired to take his signature spice blend and use it to create an even smaller batch of a special blend of that coveted family wine. And then I released just one case, twelve bottles, to the public through a raffle.

I sincerely hope the winners drink the wine, at some point. I understand the instinct to keep it. Save it for something special. My uncle might have just called that “dinner.” (One bottle was opened just as soon as it was won; a bold move. I can respect that.) Congratulations to Prince Sebastian Pravus, Duchess Lisebet Ashford, Marquis Gaspar Tessere, Marquessa Norah Eswynd, Marquessa Tyche Inverno, Count Duarte Amadeo, Baroness Calla Vaevici, Lady Alessia Mazetti, Lord Ciro Seraceni, Lady Mabelle Laurent, Lord Orland Amadeo, and Samira Culler.

My sincerest thanks to all of them for participating. My additional, and equally sincere, thanks to Princess Adrienne Pravus, Princess Alarissa Thrax, Princess Natasha Thrax, Prince Patrizio Pravus, Duke Ryhalt Farshaw, Baroness Ember Redreef, Lady Piccola Tessere, and Lord Yuri Tessere for their additional contributions to the fundraiser.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 30, 2020, 1:18 a.m.(6/23/1014 AR)

I, like many others, awaited the end of the Convocation with bated breath. I haven't spoken much on the aftermath of my uncle's assassination - or of the mockery Waldo Bellerive has made - here. Weeks have passed, the initial grief and fear has subsided. I have had the great privilege of hearing many stories shared by those whose lives were touched by him. Similarly, I have been gladdened by the rejection of division I have witnessed. The statement released by Waldo Bellerive, former Seraph of Sungreet, dared to claim the tragedy of my uncle's assassination as it's foundation for righteousness - a tragedy manufactured by the very man he has chosen to support over the Faith. Ivan Helianthus and his so-called traditionalists attacked us in our streets, our homes, our places of worship, and our places of community. Waldo Bellerive has leant his voice to that cause.

"We stand upon the precipice of a great and terrible conflict" that Waldo and Ivan and their traitorous ilk foment. "Now, in the wake of Dominus Orazio's tragic death" we must rally behind the Faith and the Compact to route out those who would abuse and subjugate us. We must "no longer remain silent and accepting of the corruption in our midst, of attempts by deceitful men and women who seek to sunder the Church." Waldo's own words ring ceaselessly, sounding of hypocrisy again and again as he attempts to lay blame at the feet of his victims. He claims piety while denying Death in her own city, while allowing the Great Cathedral to be burned and templars slain on its stairs and for a sword to fell Beloved Orazio at his table in the Queensrest. In case it was not clear: I do not, and will never, recognize any authority in Waldo Bellerive. I do not accept his censure of me as a Harlequin of the Queen of Endings. I will not go to him, humble and penitent, begging for forgiveness. I do not beg.

Instead, I will continue to be a devoted Harlequin, bringing the comfort of the Queen and Mother into people's homes when they are unable to come to the shrine. As a midwife, I will continue to shepherd precious souls into this world while providing care and counseling to expectant mothers and mother and child in those early days after birth. I will continue to sit with the dying so they are not alone or scared as their soul returns to the Queen, and I will provide grief counseling to those who loved them.

The Convocation has ended. The announcement has been made. I stand in support of Dominus Aureth Grayhope, Closest to the Gods. Further, I support Hamish Farmer, Legate of the Lost; Astrid Ulbran, Archlector of Skald; Sir Preston Godsworn, Grandmaster of the Templars and Carnifex of the Faith; and Symonesse Grayson, Queen Consort of the Compact.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 28, 2020, 12:56 a.m.(6/19/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Haakon

The path to the Abyss is laid with good intentions, no?

Perhaps here is a good application of the Saik words: "Action without thought is slavery."

Good intentions are not enough when they are followed blindly to injurious ends. Good intentions will not undo what is done, nor prevent what is to come, if they are not tempered with analysis and guidance. But you know this. Perhaps another who needs the reminder will see this, as well.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 22, 2020, 4:27 a.m.(6/7/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Nijah

Today I had the great pleasure of having my offer of patronage accepted by Apprentice Whisper Nijah. She is a smart young woman with a kind heart and a set of talents and skills that have equipped her to start down a vibrant path here in the city. I have great respect for the Whisper House and am pleased to be able to support one of their rising stars, someone who endured great hardship during her early years in Eurus, in learning more about Arvani society. But more importantly, we share many common values that will inform projects we undertake together. I am truly excited to see what the future has in store for us.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 18, 2020, 6:08 a.m.(5/27/1014 AR)

I've been struggling to write these last many days. I certainly have things to write about, but every time I sit down to put ink to paper the words dissipate from my mind like steam rising off a fresh cup of coffee. As more days go by, more things happen, and more words go unpreserved. So, I have come to sit and force myself to put something down under the watchful eyes of a Scholar.

There are moments in life that change you. It seems a betrothal is one such moment. The near future will find me wed to Lord Haakon Eswynd and joining his house - changing my name, my home, my status, my fealty. The news of our contract being approved came just two days after the attack on the city, and we put the announcement off out of respect several more days besides, so celebrating what should be exciting news has been complicated. However, there will be celebration and ceremony. And I am honored to have had the dear Lady Narcissa Fidante extend the offer to conduct the ceremony.

I am looking forward to the coming changes, to the alliance between House Saik and House Eswynd, to the perseverance and triumph of the Faith and the Compact, and to celebrating what there is to celebrate.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 12, 2020, 6:16 p.m.(5/16/1014 AR)

(The handwriting is shaky, and in a few places the ink runs after having gotten wet - likely from tears, but the document remains able to be deciphered. A note attached to it indicates the page was delivered by Fortescue Antoni, an assistant to the writer.)

Yesterday was the kind of day I might have mused about to my uncle, those days where you can see the gods at work, and he would have listened patiently as I feebly worked my way toward some understanding - minor though it might be. Within just hours, I went from planning for the city's precious beginnings to being faced with dire endings. He would have understood, I think, all the complex feelings I have about the two together and having been the Harlequin who said his prayer.

I was reminded today to look to the living. And so I'd like to extend my sincerest thanks to Marquessa Reigna for running to the Queensrest with me and bandaging those we could in the streets, Princess Reese for standing watch over us, Samira for making sure I got home somehow, my Baroness-Regent Lucita for staying the night with me. To those who have sent notes of condolence, who have offered help, who have attempted to visit but been turned away - and the one who was let in. To those who fought across the city and those that took on the solemn duty of tending the injuries. To everyone who stands for the Compact.

Someone, someday soon, will remove Ivan Helianthus's head from his shoulders. Whoever you are, may the gods guide and bless you.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 9, 2020, 5:46 p.m.(5/10/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Svana

I suppose if I must pay for a child's education that is not my own, it should be named for me. I approve of this plan, Mistress Svana. But please, don't have twins just to prove me wrong. My ego can take the blow, can your sleep schedule?

Written By Medeia

Nov. 9, 2020, 4:46 a.m.(5/9/1014 AR)

Relationship Note on Aiden

(This page appears to have some water damage in a few spots. A few, very round, very tear drop-like spots.)

So many things weighed upon my heart and my shoulders last week. In fact, for several days, it seemed there would be no end of new things coming to home to roost with me which would surely break my spirit and send me fleeing back to Saikland. But in the midst of it all, I had the precious opportunity to spend some time sitting beside Duke Aiden, talking of several things, but also of my brother Estaban. And the closure I so desperately wanted? I got. I will forever be grateful to him for the gift he has given me. I could tell you a dozen things about the man and all would be true, but none would be truer than he is good of heart.

Written By Medeia

Nov. 8, 2020, 5:58 a.m.(5/7/1014 AR)

About a week ago, I held another Saik dinner and I have been terribly busy since, unable to stop in and write a note about that moment. It was another for the records, Scholar. I saw my sister Arcelia! It had been so long since we last saw each other. And I closed out the evening with a dance with Neilda. My sisters really are wonderful. Even if we all find ways to go get lost on boats in different ways. That's... A bit of a joke that perhaps only we three would fully understand. The rest of the evening was, admittedly, a dizzying display of Scout Rowenova's instrument and dance prowess, Lady Esme's impressive ability to land on her feet, me promising to pay for the formal education of the twin I am mostly certain Mistress Svana is not having this pregnancy (it is in writing now, I can't deny it; please don't prove me wrong by having twins), and food and wine and me realizing that the line between coincidence and conspiracy is terribly thin and sometimes lies about where it is - making one think something is sinister that isn't.

Thank you, also, to Prince Talwyn, Duke Cristoph, Marquessa Tyche, Marquis Valerius, Lady Ariella, Lady Catalana, Lord Haakon, Lady Kalani, Lord Pasquale, Lady Thea, Lord Wash, and Lady Zoey for coming and making it a night to remember.

Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.

Leave blank if this journal is not a relationship

Mark if this is a private, black journal entry