Written By Amari
Sept. 28, 2018, 3:46 p.m.(9/8/1009 AR)
I put the final touches on "Lady Amari's Assortment of Adventure Apparel and Accoutrements" raffle prize box and had it delivered it to Princess Sabella earlier. Some of the items took longer than I expected and I kept wanting to add more, but time ran out and I couldn't even fit some of them into the box already (I could possibly have jammed the camp stool in, but it might have mushed up the blackberry spice cake. There was no hope at all of fitting the spear in, unfortunately). I hope whoever wins it really likes the wilderness (and foxes)!
As fun as designing everything and putting it all together was with the help of various tailors, apothecaries, leatherworkers, bakers, brewers, woodworkers and smiths, it was a lot of work. I might have underestimated the amount of effort and time that would be required. The fine crafters and artists of Arx make it all look so easy!
I'm happy anyway that I've done something that will help the Lodge. Remember to purchase your tickets!
As fun as designing everything and putting it all together was with the help of various tailors, apothecaries, leatherworkers, bakers, brewers, woodworkers and smiths, it was a lot of work. I might have underestimated the amount of effort and time that would be required. The fine crafters and artists of Arx make it all look so easy!
I'm happy anyway that I've done something that will help the Lodge. Remember to purchase your tickets!
Written By Amari
Sept. 27, 2018, 6:59 p.m.(9/6/1009 AR)
I won a raffle! Finally.
I'll have a medic follow me around now, in case I trip and fall down. They're going to be so bored. I might have to seriously take up jousting so they have something to do.
Pretending to have an ailment at the fundraiser was fun, I'm glad I took a pass on the itchy berry bug bites and ended up with dementia instead. Thank you, Reigna.
I'll have a medic follow me around now, in case I trip and fall down. They're going to be so bored. I might have to seriously take up jousting so they have something to do.
Pretending to have an ailment at the fundraiser was fun, I'm glad I took a pass on the itchy berry bug bites and ended up with dementia instead. Thank you, Reigna.
Written By Amari
Sept. 25, 2018, 2:18 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
Previous entry was classic misdirection of course, in case anyone clever thought to search the whites for clues. The real trouble will be all the mistletoe and doll's eye berries eaten before the joust which was the subject of the bet; can you eat all these poisonous berries and still shoot straight and not just immediately die?
OR IS THIS A LIE? I'm going to make this very difficult. Dame Irama Wildhawk will be a confusing riot of maladies. Which will be the one actually causing her toes to fall off?
It's probably not a curse or frostbite.
OR IS THIS A LIE? I'm going to make this very difficult. Dame Irama Wildhawk will be a confusing riot of maladies. Which will be the one actually causing her toes to fall off?
It's probably not a curse or frostbite.
Written By Amari
Sept. 25, 2018, 1:55 p.m.(9/2/1009 AR)
I'm looking forward to my acting debut. I'll be the archery jousting casualty at Reigna's fundraiser. I'll have a broken arm like Duke Cristoph, a cracked skull and an arrow stuck in my side like Baron Norwood and maybe I'll have been trampled by a horse too. So I'll be generally a bit twisted and mushed up. Oh, should I have a fever too and acute alcohol poisoning? I think that's a good start, but I'm willing to add more maladies. Frostbite?
My character will be Dame Irama Wildhawk, and I'd have been jousting to settle a bet while improperly attired for frigid winter weather and very drunk, when I accidentally shot myself with an arrow and I fell off my horse and hit my head, but my foot got stuck in the stirrup and I was also trampled on for a considerable distance through the snow. Then I caught a terrible cold and my toes fell off.
I'll need a costume and spare toes.
My character will be Dame Irama Wildhawk, and I'd have been jousting to settle a bet while improperly attired for frigid winter weather and very drunk, when I accidentally shot myself with an arrow and I fell off my horse and hit my head, but my foot got stuck in the stirrup and I was also trampled on for a considerable distance through the snow. Then I caught a terrible cold and my toes fell off.
I'll need a costume and spare toes.
Written By Amari
Sept. 24, 2018, 12:04 p.m.(8/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Archeron
After questioning the scholars, I've verified that your journal entry was made in person with your badger's help, and not the badger alone in clever disguise. What couldn't be proven was if you'd had a sufficient pootle on the way there or back, nor if you took any true interest in any persons you may have met in your travels. I'll have to ask you to find your way to one of the many fine establishments in Arx where one might find drink, food and company. Then, have a witness of sound mind who was also in attendance to write a journal entry to verify the visit and that you were not, in fact, hiding in your fortress or in the woods again.
That will satisfy the request I made of you to go out and have a drink and no further remedy will be pursued.
That will satisfy the request I made of you to go out and have a drink and no further remedy will be pursued.
Written By Amari
Sept. 23, 2018, 9:09 a.m.(8/25/1009 AR)
Scorpion venom, liquid dragon fire and cherry bourbon taken together will banish Archlectors, fell Eurusi, stumble Northmen and leave Oathland ladies with headaches, and vague recollections of eloquently spoken dogs, whirling rainbows, and spinning rooms and perhaps some regret for having proposed a drinking contest at the Hart.
For the record.
For the record.
Written By Amari
Sept. 16, 2018, 8:22 p.m.(8/12/1009 AR)
I have to remember to buy some arugula leaves. I'm not sure they'll really help spur Clopsy to greater feats of speed and agility, or even motivate her slightly, but there's no harm in trying.
It's not as if she could have gone any slower during the ring joust, unless the arugula leaves cause her to fall asleep.
Anyway. I always spectate at those sorts of things, but not having to fear being lanced from horseback, it was entertaining to try for a change, rather than just watch. Apologies to everyone that had the misfortune of seeing that poor performance and those jousters who had to wait for me to make it through the course at the speed of a drowsy snail.
Thanks to my fellow competitors for the kind words and advice after, and thank you, Duke Cristoph for indulging me.
It's not as if she could have gone any slower during the ring joust, unless the arugula leaves cause her to fall asleep.
Anyway. I always spectate at those sorts of things, but not having to fear being lanced from horseback, it was entertaining to try for a change, rather than just watch. Apologies to everyone that had the misfortune of seeing that poor performance and those jousters who had to wait for me to make it through the course at the speed of a drowsy snail.
Thanks to my fellow competitors for the kind words and advice after, and thank you, Duke Cristoph for indulging me.
Written By Amari
Sept. 16, 2018, 8:15 p.m.(8/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
I don't wish to embarrass Dame Ida terribly by piling on the compliments, but I have to make a record of my gratitude to her. Hawkbear is a thing of true beauty and savagery! I may not yet have a collection of Ferron weaponry as vast as Prince Luca's, but perhaps one day. I've never been anything but amazed by her imagination and workmanship. My wondrous hawk bow, and its matching hairpins and now this wonderful cutlass, all are gorgeous and masterfully crafted.
Thank you, Dame Ida.
Thank you, Dame Ida.
Written By Amari
Sept. 9, 2018, 3:36 p.m.(7/24/1009 AR)
I have a vague but foreboding feeling that I might one day regret those pillows.
Lovely reception though.
Lovely reception though.
Written By Amari
Sept. 7, 2018, 10:39 a.m.(7/19/1009 AR)
I had so much fun hosting the Archery Party with Lady Jael. The turn out was quite good and there was no shortage of conversation. I'm not sure I was able to thank everyone personally for attending, so thank you, everyone. Apologies also to anyone I wasn't able to properly greet. I tried! My gratitude also to Marquis Kael and Marquessa Reigna Keaton for permitting the use of Commander's Field and for making an appearance themselves!
Highlights of the event included Lady Shae and Commandant Violet, of the Crimson Blades, offering some of us less practiced and experienced types some extremely helpful instruction. There was almost a chest popping challenge between Lord Nightgold and Marquis Keaton, though the Marquessa wouldn't permit the removal of his shirt. Oh and some very earnest and forthright questions were asked of Baron Norwood, and his nephew Eddard was introduced. Finally, at the end, a very casual competition was held between myself and Lady Jael which she won, quite handily, despite the spirited attempts to distract her.
Things to consider for a possible repeat of the event include the following:
There was a demand for stiffer drink than tea, and the claim that archery and whiskey actually go together, but I still find it a bit dubious.
I didn't fully account for the possibility of a large crowd. I should have had additional seating brought out for spectators.
The expectation from some guests was that there would be an archery contest, which I hadn't planned in any great detail. I'll have to think up something exciting.
More tarts were needed.
Lastly, a desire for a "No Shirts" event was expressed. I'm almost curious enough to try arranging one.
Highlights of the event included Lady Shae and Commandant Violet, of the Crimson Blades, offering some of us less practiced and experienced types some extremely helpful instruction. There was almost a chest popping challenge between Lord Nightgold and Marquis Keaton, though the Marquessa wouldn't permit the removal of his shirt. Oh and some very earnest and forthright questions were asked of Baron Norwood, and his nephew Eddard was introduced. Finally, at the end, a very casual competition was held between myself and Lady Jael which she won, quite handily, despite the spirited attempts to distract her.
Things to consider for a possible repeat of the event include the following:
There was a demand for stiffer drink than tea, and the claim that archery and whiskey actually go together, but I still find it a bit dubious.
I didn't fully account for the possibility of a large crowd. I should have had additional seating brought out for spectators.
The expectation from some guests was that there would be an archery contest, which I hadn't planned in any great detail. I'll have to think up something exciting.
More tarts were needed.
Lastly, a desire for a "No Shirts" event was expressed. I'm almost curious enough to try arranging one.
Written By Amari
Sept. 2, 2018, 9:52 a.m.(7/5/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Shae
I'm just happy you liked it, because I did fret over my poor needlework and almost started over from scratch. If you ever need more arts or crafts that makes you slightly uncomfortable again, call on me, cousin. I did enjoy making your idea reality.
Written By Amari
Aug. 31, 2018, 9:13 a.m.(7/1/1009 AR)
The fourth Skirt and Gown Night was a success, I think. I was a little worried since it was my first time hosting anything of the sort. I was glad for Princess Coraline being there as co-host, even if she was mostly restricted to chair for the evening, save that quick dash back into the Estate and out again. The Truths and Lie game I hope went a bit smoother than the previous attempt where I sort of made it up on the spot. I tried to make it a little fairer and more easily understood. It may still need a few small adjustments, and Lady Lisebet did wonder if we might flip it to Two Lies and a Truth. The winners, in a final round to break the tie, were Princess Denica Thrax and Lady Lethe Tyde. They were both phenomenally good at discerning the lies.
There was a good turn out overall, and some new faces, like Countess Corvini along with some notables and friends I was surprised and delighted made an appearance. There was also Sir Ober in a gown which didn't quite fit. His appearance did spark a little debate about whether or not these events should be restricted to ladies in skirts, or just anyone in skirts regardless of gender. It was decided that the host of the event would be the final arbiter, and next month's gracious host will be Gianna Whisper at the Bard's College.
I know there is a fair amount of interest from men to attend these things. Is it simply curiosity or fear you're being plotted against, or a burning desire to wear fancy gowns as we do? If it's the latter, I'll happily host the first ever Skirts Only Dance, wherein the only requirement would be that everyone, lord or lady, master or mistress, must wear a skirt of some kind. Send me a messenger if you'd like to attend so I know there's sufficient interest out there.
There was a good turn out overall, and some new faces, like Countess Corvini along with some notables and friends I was surprised and delighted made an appearance. There was also Sir Ober in a gown which didn't quite fit. His appearance did spark a little debate about whether or not these events should be restricted to ladies in skirts, or just anyone in skirts regardless of gender. It was decided that the host of the event would be the final arbiter, and next month's gracious host will be Gianna Whisper at the Bard's College.
I know there is a fair amount of interest from men to attend these things. Is it simply curiosity or fear you're being plotted against, or a burning desire to wear fancy gowns as we do? If it's the latter, I'll happily host the first ever Skirts Only Dance, wherein the only requirement would be that everyone, lord or lady, master or mistress, must wear a skirt of some kind. Send me a messenger if you'd like to attend so I know there's sufficient interest out there.
Written By Amari
Aug. 27, 2018, 12:43 p.m.(6/21/1009 AR)
The Coffee Club was quite an enjoyable evening. Lady Lisebet and Duke Ryhalt are gracious hosts and the solarium is beautiful. The coffee too, was very good and I finally broke down and had a rum butter tart. Amazing. I took one home to Archeron, because in his haste not to dither, he didn't stay long enough to enjoy any of the treats.
Lady Lethe, Lady Kalani and I all played a game of categories. We had to say related words as quickly as possible in turn, first different animals and then desserts. I almost laughed myself out of the competition, but squeaked through to victory. The prize was a blade in autumn colors which I will proudly menace my enemies with.
If you read this, and haven't yet visited Bold Espressions, you really should.
Also, candied eels - are they real or was I lied to?
Lady Lethe, Lady Kalani and I all played a game of categories. We had to say related words as quickly as possible in turn, first different animals and then desserts. I almost laughed myself out of the competition, but squeaked through to victory. The prize was a blade in autumn colors which I will proudly menace my enemies with.
If you read this, and haven't yet visited Bold Espressions, you really should.
Also, candied eels - are they real or was I lied to?
Written By Amari
Aug. 26, 2018, 4:26 p.m.(6/20/1009 AR)
I've been to Tyde Isle now, which wasn't as grey, frozen, stormy and foreboding as I imagined. There's a crisp, cold clarity to everything and all the colors are spectacularly vivid. It was a very striking landscape of bare stone, snow and verdant greens of windswept grass and woods against the azure blues of sky and sea. My attempt at painting it was sadly a poor one, but I'll have to try again. it's difficult to describe in words alone.
The people there aren't as drab and solemn as I expected either. They're as strong and tenacious as they are warm and kind but also, raucous. Mostly raucous, actually - so rowdy. I thought I had heard some ribald humor in Arx, but no, it was all very mild stuff in comparison. Sailors have a masterful command of vulgarity. What I overhead on the trip was truly inspiring. I'll not put down any examples, but rest assured, I know some quality curses now.
Not that I'm complaining. I just might have chosen a more practical wardrobe to bring along and have worried a little less about being so well behaved, perfectly attired and properly mannered all the time. It took some time to relax and find my sea legs, but once I did I enjoyed myself quite a bit. Duchess Margot, Lady Lethe and Helia were of great help and wonderful company throughout. Archeron was too, even if I had to occasionally rescue him from a social misstep. In return, he was kind enough to protect me from bears and those weird unicorn whales while we saw all the important sights around the isle.
So in conclusion, our visit to the Tydelands was a great success and I learned a lot of colorful swears, but seagulls are rude. I don't like them.
The people there aren't as drab and solemn as I expected either. They're as strong and tenacious as they are warm and kind but also, raucous. Mostly raucous, actually - so rowdy. I thought I had heard some ribald humor in Arx, but no, it was all very mild stuff in comparison. Sailors have a masterful command of vulgarity. What I overhead on the trip was truly inspiring. I'll not put down any examples, but rest assured, I know some quality curses now.
Not that I'm complaining. I just might have chosen a more practical wardrobe to bring along and have worried a little less about being so well behaved, perfectly attired and properly mannered all the time. It took some time to relax and find my sea legs, but once I did I enjoyed myself quite a bit. Duchess Margot, Lady Lethe and Helia were of great help and wonderful company throughout. Archeron was too, even if I had to occasionally rescue him from a social misstep. In return, he was kind enough to protect me from bears and those weird unicorn whales while we saw all the important sights around the isle.
So in conclusion, our visit to the Tydelands was a great success and I learned a lot of colorful swears, but seagulls are rude. I don't like them.
Written By Amari
Aug. 25, 2018, 11:16 a.m.(6/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Casimir
For the record, I know that you, Marquis-Consort Casimir Acheron, are not actually fifty years old, nor are you my uncle.
I apologize if I teased you overly much. It was just a very pleasant surprise to see you again, and in Arx no less. Congratulations on your marriage, cousin!
I apologize if I teased you overly much. It was just a very pleasant surprise to see you again, and in Arx no less. Congratulations on your marriage, cousin!
Written By Amari
Aug. 18, 2018, 4:13 p.m.(6/3/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Lisebet
Welcome back!
Written By Amari
Aug. 11, 2018, 7:56 p.m.(5/18/1009 AR)
Bees.
I rather like them, under normal circumstances. They're industrious, they're cute and they're courageous in the defense of their queens and homes.
That said, I would have appreciated that one not flying in my face when it did. If you're out there little bee, and if you can somehow read, and have found this entry, I have one question for you:
Why?
I rather like them, under normal circumstances. They're industrious, they're cute and they're courageous in the defense of their queens and homes.
That said, I would have appreciated that one not flying in my face when it did. If you're out there little bee, and if you can somehow read, and have found this entry, I have one question for you:
Why?
Written By Amari
Aug. 9, 2018, 1:43 p.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Enyo
Congratulations (I think)! I look forward to the official proclamation (or pigeon bearing announcement slip).
Written By Amari
Aug. 9, 2018, 12:59 p.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
I almost embarrassed myself terribly by dying at Princess Alarissa's fancy tea party. Which was very fun, aside from that small hiccup. Thankfully, Princess Coraline was there (in a wonderful DRESS) and rescued me from humiliating death. After the games and things wound down, there was fine conversation with some of my favorite people and some I hadn't met before, but who were quite fun. I'm looking forward to the adventure, and possibly cliff diving. It surely can't be any more perilous than attending tea parties.
I'll be more careful at the oyster shuck. How dangerous are oysters anyway? It should be fine.
...
In the event of my death during the oyster shuck, I'd like Lady Veronica to have one of my nicest dresses (her choice) and the jewelry to match it. My brother Aric, my dagger. Lady Shae is welcome to my bow, as I'm sure she'd make better use of it. Lord Archeron shall have my furniture and socks, and emerald necklace (and apologies for dying before the wedding). Marquis Kael and Marquessa Reigna, a large amount of silver in a vain attempt to repay their kindness, plus Reigna may have my finest seasilks and I hope Kael would care for River in my absence. Lady Lethe, my collection of hairpins. Baron Norwood and Lady Margerie, my axe, Marigold the pygmy goat and funds to help with the improvement of Duskshire. Duke Cristoph, all my paintings. Lady Tessa, any of my slippers and liquor she found to her taste. I'd also like to donate funds to the care of orphans and child thralls, as well as the organizations I'm a member of and to the Faith. Anything remaining may be freely squabbled over, preferably with the aid of lawyers.
I'll be more careful at the oyster shuck. How dangerous are oysters anyway? It should be fine.
...
In the event of my death during the oyster shuck, I'd like Lady Veronica to have one of my nicest dresses (her choice) and the jewelry to match it. My brother Aric, my dagger. Lady Shae is welcome to my bow, as I'm sure she'd make better use of it. Lord Archeron shall have my furniture and socks, and emerald necklace (and apologies for dying before the wedding). Marquis Kael and Marquessa Reigna, a large amount of silver in a vain attempt to repay their kindness, plus Reigna may have my finest seasilks and I hope Kael would care for River in my absence. Lady Lethe, my collection of hairpins. Baron Norwood and Lady Margerie, my axe, Marigold the pygmy goat and funds to help with the improvement of Duskshire. Duke Cristoph, all my paintings. Lady Tessa, any of my slippers and liquor she found to her taste. I'd also like to donate funds to the care of orphans and child thralls, as well as the organizations I'm a member of and to the Faith. Anything remaining may be freely squabbled over, preferably with the aid of lawyers.
Written By Amari
Aug. 6, 2018, 12:45 p.m.(5/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Jael
I'll bring Lord What-his-name over to the Manse and you two can see who's the better archer. You're both amazing, so it should be a close competition. I promise I won't bring my own bow and just content myself with sampling drinks. I don't want to scare the Duke.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.