Written By Corban
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:51 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
I see no conflict between chivalry and questioning. The chivalrous are guided not solely by obedience, but by righteousness. To pursue the right requires questioning, for it requires the knight to judge her actions against the good, not just one's orders. Nor is chivalry an obstacle to considering a matter from each angle. I am a Knight Lieutenant. But each one of the hundred Silver Swords has not just the right, but the duty, to carefully examine my plans and to raise a question or concern if a material flaw is identified.
Of course, the chivalrous must keep their oaths and it is generally right to obey one's superiors. Thus, when a decision is taken, the chivalrous must carry the order out to the best of their ability, even if they were previously opposed. The role of Tehom's advocate is ill taken when it extends beyond planning and infects the time for action.
But even then.
Our history is dotted with instances where those who I believe were true to chivalry defied orders in pursuit of the right and protection of innocent. The paladins at Eastguard, who refused to withdraw to Arx so that they might protect the refugees fleeing from the coast. The Paladins of the Wood and the knights that rode with them -- and became oathbreakers -- to to fight alongside the Sylv'alfar.
I leave to others Tehom's nature and His proper role in the Pantheon. But -- at least when it comes to critical inquiry -- I should rather like to leave chivalry out of it.
Written By Jasher
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:51 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
Written By Aleksei
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:44 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
Written By Mydas
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:36 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
Not all my journal responses are meant to point the flaw in the arguments of others, Marquessa.
Written By Tikva
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:20 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Written By Reigna
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:19 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aleksei
It is still worth it.
Written By Aleksei
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:13 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Written By Reigna
Sept. 25, 2018, 12:04 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
Perhaps it is my recent lack of sleep, but that is what I said, was it not?
Written By Mydas
Sept. 25, 2018, 11:37 a.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
To question everything is as foolish as questioning nothing. And if one's faith is so fragile as to be endangered when difficult questions are considered, then that speaks more of one's moral failings than the ones of the one who asks.
The implicit trust and unity you speak of has its merits of course. A shieldwall is far stronger than a lone warrior. Yet to sacrifice one's own ability to think for the sake of blind adherence weakens faith, weakens trust. Chivalry thus becomes less the source of high ideals and virtues, and instead a mindlessness obedience far from Gloria, and for that matter, from Skald.
To follow like sheep is no great achievement. To stand together despite differences of nature and belief merits far greater praise. And on that, Marquessa, we agree.
Written By Reigna
Sept. 25, 2018, 11:22 a.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
I think the aspect of Tehom's worship that most grates, or feels uncomfortable for most Oathlanders (and I could be wrong, this is only my theory) is the contrarian nature. The questioning. Chivalry is drilled into Oathland children, and chivalry is often based on implicit trust in those around you to conform to the same rules that you do. It is, quite literally, an honor system. Some see this as hopelessly naive, this trust placed in others without question. And it can be. Trust can be a fragile thing. Questioning can feel as though that trust is wavering, that there is uncertainty when chivalry demands that faith, that belief and trust. I am not saying either side is wrong, but I do see how they can rub one another the wrong way.
What needs to be understood, or what might smooth those ruffled feathers, is understanding that the questions are not asked to shake the foundation, but to provide context for that belief. If you can answer those questions and feel steady in those answers, your faith, your trust is strengthened. If you cannot answer those questions without feeling the ground shifting under you, that is a sign that perhaps your faith, your trust is not as solid as it should be. The trick is not being afraid to face that answer. Accept whichever answer you find. If you are uncertain it does not mean your faith is wrong, it is simply providing an opportunity to strengthen your belief by finding the root of your uncertainty and resolving that question for yourself.
Written By Lisebet
Sept. 25, 2018, 9:26 a.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
I've been very contemplative the past little while, thinking about life, marriage, children, and a few other thoughts that came to mind. I reached absolutely no conclusions, mind you, but that hasn't stopped me from thinking.
Written By Rosalie
Sept. 25, 2018, 9:23 a.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
Anyone that knows Alex and I knows that we wanted children straight off. We took Kes into our home before we were even married! And she has been insistently demanding a sister ever since. Well now I am pleased to announce that she will have her wish, or as close to it as we can manage. The first new Redtyde will make his or her appearance in the spring! Fitting, a new year and a season of growth and rejuvenation, and a new addition to our House!
...yes Coraline, you can now fuss at me in public!
Written By Niklas
Sept. 25, 2018, 9:20 a.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
I'm not sure who they were, but they were probably great. Also my mother died.
I haven't spent a single day of those thirteen years mourning or missing her. Might as well spend another thirteen years doing the same!
Written By Edain
Sept. 25, 2018, 8:52 a.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
Written By Mydas
Sept. 25, 2018, 8:49 a.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
Our Lady of Change's tenets are closely tied to Tehom. While historically the Mirrormasks and Scholars of Vellichor have ever been close, even before the Faith's civil war, one could argue that Lagoma's teachings are as essential. The Mirror is not offered simply for knowledge's sake. Awareness of our Light and Darkness does not end there. We are not to simply accept our passions and do nothing with them. This inertia is not of the Gods, and is not what is expected of us by Tehom.
No, awareness and knowledge are to be used for change. When one's raging core is uncovered, anger that causes the man to lash out at those close to him, it is not enough to simply say "I am an angry man." and accept it. "I am an angry man, but I shall channel that anger." is the better route. To put one's passions to work, instead of simply embracing, is a core principle of the teachings of Tehom. In so doing, one improves not only their own life, but also the one of those around them. In so doing, they change, and grow.
Yet the relationship between Tehom and Lagoma goes further. It is the duty of the Mirrormasks to offer a mirror to those seeking counsel. We, faceless mirrors, are to listen and aid in whatever way we can, to guide others upon the path of self-improvement and understanding. And how can one do such a thing without mercy for the failings of men and women?
Written By Cambria
Sept. 24, 2018, 10:46 p.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
Written By Violet
Sept. 24, 2018, 10:33 p.m.(9/1/1009 AR)
Written By Lys
Sept. 24, 2018, 10:18 p.m.(8/28/1009 AR)
Written By Quenia
Sept. 24, 2018, 10:16 p.m.(8/28/1009 AR)
But then, I have always loved Lady Monique's wonderful parties.
Written By Victus
Sept. 24, 2018, 10:08 p.m.(8/28/1009 AR)
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.