Written By Cesare
Aug. 9, 2021, 8:03 p.m.(12/27/1015 AR)
What a strange and momentous day it was yesterday. As a Disciple of Jayus (yes, I am quite sure you are tired of hearing me remind you of this fact), I find myself often enthralled by the range of emotions we are capable of as feeling beings; and yet, even so, rarely have I experienced such a wide spectrum as I did in such a short length of time as yesterday. The prevailing sense, I think, is one of pride. Not for myself, but on the behalf of those I care about, which is possibly more satisfying.
I was proud to hear Baroness Natalia Elwood's elevation received with such grace, and tremendously grateful that she agreed to speak on my behalf in expressing thanks from those of us who have called Whisper House our home, for the assistance and support given to us. There have been no lines drawn between great houses, nor between peerage and commoner, among those who gave generously in time, spirit, effort, and compensation to assist Whisper, and that is a rare and remarkable thing.
I was likewise proud, on a personal level, to be present for the elevation of the March of Nilanza to a Duchy. The newly-elevated Duke and Duchess have been tremendously giving of their time, talents, and knowledge; and I well know that I am not the only one who has been so lucky to receive such generosity from them. It is a pleasure to see such diligence and hard work recognized and rewarded, as these are values I hold dear myself.
An adage of uncertain origin says, "to err is human; to forgive, divine." It is the nature of the choice we were gifted by Skald that we are bound to make mistakes. But it is also the nature of the change embodied by the flame of Lagoma that we must let those mistakes burn away in time, when we have made amends and done our penance. My patron, Lady Medeia Eswynd, is a gracious and generous person in many ways. It does not surprise me to see that she is equally gracious in asking forgiveness for her missteps. I know that for myself, remembering all the good she has done for so many, I would find it difficult to hold a stone in my heart against her. I hope that others among the Compact's peerage and knighthood may find it within themselves to have the same graciousness.
I'm incredibly grateful to those who have donated works so far for the Midwinter Celebration. Jayus will be well-pleased, I think, with your efforts. After a short break, I'm back to songwriting myself, both for Princess Denica's upcoming opening gala and for the celebration.
This morning I took a walk along the Seawatch Wall, barefoot. Yes, I know, it sounds like madness in December. But I only got a little cold, really, and it was worth it. Sometimes a bit of a sting reminds us how truly alive we are.
I was proud to hear Baroness Natalia Elwood's elevation received with such grace, and tremendously grateful that she agreed to speak on my behalf in expressing thanks from those of us who have called Whisper House our home, for the assistance and support given to us. There have been no lines drawn between great houses, nor between peerage and commoner, among those who gave generously in time, spirit, effort, and compensation to assist Whisper, and that is a rare and remarkable thing.
I was likewise proud, on a personal level, to be present for the elevation of the March of Nilanza to a Duchy. The newly-elevated Duke and Duchess have been tremendously giving of their time, talents, and knowledge; and I well know that I am not the only one who has been so lucky to receive such generosity from them. It is a pleasure to see such diligence and hard work recognized and rewarded, as these are values I hold dear myself.
An adage of uncertain origin says, "to err is human; to forgive, divine." It is the nature of the choice we were gifted by Skald that we are bound to make mistakes. But it is also the nature of the change embodied by the flame of Lagoma that we must let those mistakes burn away in time, when we have made amends and done our penance. My patron, Lady Medeia Eswynd, is a gracious and generous person in many ways. It does not surprise me to see that she is equally gracious in asking forgiveness for her missteps. I know that for myself, remembering all the good she has done for so many, I would find it difficult to hold a stone in my heart against her. I hope that others among the Compact's peerage and knighthood may find it within themselves to have the same graciousness.
I'm incredibly grateful to those who have donated works so far for the Midwinter Celebration. Jayus will be well-pleased, I think, with your efforts. After a short break, I'm back to songwriting myself, both for Princess Denica's upcoming opening gala and for the celebration.
This morning I took a walk along the Seawatch Wall, barefoot. Yes, I know, it sounds like madness in December. But I only got a little cold, really, and it was worth it. Sometimes a bit of a sting reminds us how truly alive we are.
Written By Cesare
Aug. 3, 2021, 4:01 p.m.(12/15/1015 AR)
What a week it has been for reminders of one's place in the world.
Written By Cesare
Aug. 1, 2021, 12:13 p.m.(12/10/1015 AR)
It has been one of my greatest fortunes as a Whisper to have had - and continue to have - the opportunity to commingle with people from all walks of life. Our Compact is tremendously full of gifted individuals, and I consider myself deeply lucky to have met, worked alongside, and befriended so many of them. As a Whisper, my perspective has benefited from hearing the many varied histories, thoughts, opinions, and approaches of these folk. Whispers inevitably do people-focused work, and it's always necessary when doing such work to come at it from myriad angles; people are as varied as snowflakes, if you'll pardon the simile, no two alike, and one must adjust one's approach each time. So each new thing I learn - customs, likes, dislikes, folklore, traditions, et cetera - benefits me in some way. And I've been doubly fortunate this week, in the wake of what happened at our beloved House, to spend some with many of my most cared-for, and to feel not just cherished, but understood.
I have found in my personal experiences that condemnation and anger are not difficult to muster. It is understanding and forgiveness which require the deeper examination of oneself and another, and are therefore much harder to summon in true sincerity. And it is forgiveness which is perhaps the most healing, because it absolves oneself of the weight of anger. I've always found anger difficult to hold onto, however - my devotion as a Disciple of Jayus is very true in that regard; I always seem to settle into joy and hope as a sort of equilibrium. Nonetheless, I am not immune to resentment.
I've found myself increasingly drawn to contemplation lately, too. Many would tell you that is not a new development, if you asked. But contemplation, learning to be alone and at home with oneself and one's thoughts, has long been a balm. In troubled times, it is only moreso.
I have found in my personal experiences that condemnation and anger are not difficult to muster. It is understanding and forgiveness which require the deeper examination of oneself and another, and are therefore much harder to summon in true sincerity. And it is forgiveness which is perhaps the most healing, because it absolves oneself of the weight of anger. I've always found anger difficult to hold onto, however - my devotion as a Disciple of Jayus is very true in that regard; I always seem to settle into joy and hope as a sort of equilibrium. Nonetheless, I am not immune to resentment.
I've found myself increasingly drawn to contemplation lately, too. Many would tell you that is not a new development, if you asked. But contemplation, learning to be alone and at home with oneself and one's thoughts, has long been a balm. In troubled times, it is only moreso.
Written By Cesare
July 25, 2021, 2:05 p.m.(11/25/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Savio
Yesterday, Lord Savio spontaneously improvised the most charming poem about me. Well, Mockingbird Evaristo was playing, as well, so I suppose it could be both a poem and a song, really. In any case - this recitation was so delightful it ought to be my epitaph, I think, carved into a headstone for all to see for all of eternity to remember me by. If you see Lord Savio, do ask him to recite it for you.
Written By Cesare
July 23, 2021, 10:43 a.m.(11/20/1015 AR)
These past two or so weeks I've had my head down a bit more than usual. Focused on the less glamorous aspects of Whisperhood, you might say - yes, those exist. Certainly nothing interesting enough that it bears repeating here. Most of the anecdotes worth repeating are amusing but relatively trivial; an example: I was luxuriating in a rather hedonistic, lengthy bath last night with the fire blazing, and my rooms became quite lovely and toasty. By the time I'd decided to stifle the fire a bit, I later realized, it was already far too late, and what started as pleasantly toasty very rapidly became ovenlike. I had to open the window, and there I was, with a fire going and the window open at the same time, stripping clothing off again in an effort to find equilibrium. I have not - thus far - had complaints about the change of seasons, but in this instance my inexperience caught up with me rather abruptly.
Another anecdote - perhaps a threat, or an enticement, depending on how one feels, I suppose. My dear Lady Medeia premiered another delightful creation from the Saikland distillery this week, a digestif with the most complex herbal flavor, very aromatic and rather delightfully bitter. I can imagine it in a number of cocktails. Maybe with mint, or ginger. At the event, we somehow got on the topic of birds, and I confessed I occasionally consider obtaining a pet swan. Not least because of their fearsome and unpleasant reputation. Imagine what an excellent determent to unwanted company a swan would make! Anytime I'm feeling moody, I could simply set the swan on guard duty. Nobody would dare come near for fear of being buffeted, pinched, and pecked to death.
I'll be traveling soon to the Mourning Isles, to Eswynd Rock, to support my patron's projects. I am quite looking forward to it, despite assuredly knowing I will freeze my Southern fingers and toes right off, no doubt. The way Lady Medeia has described the austere beauty of the isle is something I suspect will provide a great deal of fodder for inspiration. More and more, the longer I am in Arx, the greater my longing for new experiences. Don't mistake my meaning; I could find beauty in the smallest and most familiar of things endlessly, but the breadth and sheer expansiveness of the wonder of the world which is available to me is simply stunning. Enriching, if you will. Even if I were never to use it directly in any music I wrote, I'm certain that it would still make itself known in me me and in any creative work I produce.
Another anecdote - perhaps a threat, or an enticement, depending on how one feels, I suppose. My dear Lady Medeia premiered another delightful creation from the Saikland distillery this week, a digestif with the most complex herbal flavor, very aromatic and rather delightfully bitter. I can imagine it in a number of cocktails. Maybe with mint, or ginger. At the event, we somehow got on the topic of birds, and I confessed I occasionally consider obtaining a pet swan. Not least because of their fearsome and unpleasant reputation. Imagine what an excellent determent to unwanted company a swan would make! Anytime I'm feeling moody, I could simply set the swan on guard duty. Nobody would dare come near for fear of being buffeted, pinched, and pecked to death.
I'll be traveling soon to the Mourning Isles, to Eswynd Rock, to support my patron's projects. I am quite looking forward to it, despite assuredly knowing I will freeze my Southern fingers and toes right off, no doubt. The way Lady Medeia has described the austere beauty of the isle is something I suspect will provide a great deal of fodder for inspiration. More and more, the longer I am in Arx, the greater my longing for new experiences. Don't mistake my meaning; I could find beauty in the smallest and most familiar of things endlessly, but the breadth and sheer expansiveness of the wonder of the world which is available to me is simply stunning. Enriching, if you will. Even if I were never to use it directly in any music I wrote, I'm certain that it would still make itself known in me me and in any creative work I produce.
Written By Cesare
July 20, 2021, 9:28 p.m.(11/15/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
No drowning would have happened even without my intervention, I assure you. My role has been wildly exaggerated. I suspect only that you and Lord Vitalis would both have ended up a bit more soggy and with the distinctly unpleasant feeling of water in your noses. As for the dancing, it is my solemn promise that I will remedy your lack of it at my earliest opportunity, that no toes will be stepped on, no drowning will occur, and I will do my level best to leave you laughing with exhilaration. It has been a heavy few months for most of us. We all deserve a little uncomplicated exhilaration.
Written By Cesare
July 18, 2021, 2:51 a.m.(11/10/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Savio
Nothing that shines ever sees its own light. Perhaps it's the nature of things that the brightest are only ever staring out into the darkness of the void. But I see your light. I'll keep telling you it's there as long as you need. I'll keep telling other people about it. However long it takes. And if I'm angry, it won't be with you.
Written By Cesare
July 17, 2021, 5:13 p.m.(11/9/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Viviana
Sometimes recognition is comfort. Sometimes it's the deepest loneliness of all.
Written By Cesare
July 16, 2021, 10:02 p.m.(11/7/1015 AR)
I watched when you woke this morning - that syrup-slowness, the shape of your shoulders as you pulled on your shirt. The way you looked out the window for a minute or more, as if there was something important over those daybreak roofs there only you could see. The curve of your neck in that cold dawn light, white as marble, the only time you could be mistaken for something so inert.
I cherished those moments in which you thought yourself unobserved; I didn’t want you to know I’d woken too. I wanted to watch the stretch-and-clutch of your ribs and know you were thinking of the day ahead. Maybe of then night before. Not some errant, unnecessary touch of guilt for having pulled me back from the mists of dreaming. When I let my eyes slip, looking at you from between my lashes yielded another picture, like a painting smudged by a careless hand. Just light and shadow, dappled together, always shifting. Isn’t that what we all are?
Some people would think it foolish, to find something so profound in such a simple act. But not you. I know you’d understand: This is what beauty is. These are the pieces of life that are worth gripping tighter than the rest, clasping closest. When we talk about hope, this is what we often forget.
I’m sorry this doesn’t rhyme. Maybe it’s not really a poem at all. But it’s for you.
I cherished those moments in which you thought yourself unobserved; I didn’t want you to know I’d woken too. I wanted to watch the stretch-and-clutch of your ribs and know you were thinking of the day ahead. Maybe of then night before. Not some errant, unnecessary touch of guilt for having pulled me back from the mists of dreaming. When I let my eyes slip, looking at you from between my lashes yielded another picture, like a painting smudged by a careless hand. Just light and shadow, dappled together, always shifting. Isn’t that what we all are?
Some people would think it foolish, to find something so profound in such a simple act. But not you. I know you’d understand: This is what beauty is. These are the pieces of life that are worth gripping tighter than the rest, clasping closest. When we talk about hope, this is what we often forget.
I’m sorry this doesn’t rhyme. Maybe it’s not really a poem at all. But it’s for you.
Written By Cesare
July 11, 2021, 12:39 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Medeia
The hough, as I have today learnt it is called, is also an excellent place for unexpected tickling. This is a proprietary Whisper technique of the Whisper House of Setarco.
Written By Cesare
July 11, 2021, 12:37 a.m.(10/24/1015 AR)
What a strange couple of weeks it's been. Full of ups and downs. Precipitous highs and bottomless lows. Well, no, probably not that dramatic. But I've the worst headache I've had in - ever, I think, and I'm writing this in the dark by only the light of a single candle to keep it a little at bay so I can focus on the words - so forgive the hyperbole, perhaps.
I performed recently at a dinner hosted by Lord and Lady Clement. The dinner itself was a delight, thoughtfully themed and peopled by a strange but pleasing mix of folk I doubt I would have found gathered together anywhere else. I was pleased with the song I'd written, inasmuch as I am ever pleased with anything I write in the moment of its creation (fellow artists and artisans reading this will sympathize, I suspect), and it was received with as much warmth as I could have asked for. I'm grateful. It feels fortunate indeed to have my talents both desired and appreciated by those I respect.
The gala in Artshall, too, was particularly grand. It was lovely to see such care and so much dedication put into celebrating the arts and culture. Of course I'm biased by nature of my discipleship, but I wonder if art isn't one of the most lasting artifacts of our civilizations. We remember songs and tales from long ago, after all - the details change, sometimes the characters, and meaning becomes obscure - but melodies often remain.
I've never precisely had family. This isn't a cry for sympathy in any sense; the past doesn't want sympathy, it's already been written, and my life has largely been a blessed one in many senses. But I've never before known the feeling of what it is to be trusted not because I am named Whisper, or because I have done some deed, or because I have behaved convincingly. These past months I've been - lucky feels like too small a word. I've known what it feels like to be trusted simply because I asked for trust. Because of who I am. I think that must be what the true feeling of family is like. And it's strange to have that feeling, toward someone who isn't family, who I never met until this very year! But I'm grateful for every time I see her and am reminded of it. Maybe if it's possible for souls to be siblings, ours are. Whatever the case - I'm grateful.
It's taken me far too long to write this. My head is splitting. I'm going to go have a nice, long soak.
I performed recently at a dinner hosted by Lord and Lady Clement. The dinner itself was a delight, thoughtfully themed and peopled by a strange but pleasing mix of folk I doubt I would have found gathered together anywhere else. I was pleased with the song I'd written, inasmuch as I am ever pleased with anything I write in the moment of its creation (fellow artists and artisans reading this will sympathize, I suspect), and it was received with as much warmth as I could have asked for. I'm grateful. It feels fortunate indeed to have my talents both desired and appreciated by those I respect.
The gala in Artshall, too, was particularly grand. It was lovely to see such care and so much dedication put into celebrating the arts and culture. Of course I'm biased by nature of my discipleship, but I wonder if art isn't one of the most lasting artifacts of our civilizations. We remember songs and tales from long ago, after all - the details change, sometimes the characters, and meaning becomes obscure - but melodies often remain.
I've never precisely had family. This isn't a cry for sympathy in any sense; the past doesn't want sympathy, it's already been written, and my life has largely been a blessed one in many senses. But I've never before known the feeling of what it is to be trusted not because I am named Whisper, or because I have done some deed, or because I have behaved convincingly. These past months I've been - lucky feels like too small a word. I've known what it feels like to be trusted simply because I asked for trust. Because of who I am. I think that must be what the true feeling of family is like. And it's strange to have that feeling, toward someone who isn't family, who I never met until this very year! But I'm grateful for every time I see her and am reminded of it. Maybe if it's possible for souls to be siblings, ours are. Whatever the case - I'm grateful.
It's taken me far too long to write this. My head is splitting. I'm going to go have a nice, long soak.
Written By Cesare
July 4, 2021, 8:01 p.m.(10/11/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Auda
I know who has your slippers, and they may once again be yours for a modest ransom. No coin will change hands, perhaps only a pithy word or two. Do send word if you'd like them back, and I'll wrangle the despised slipper-thief into returning them for well below market price.
Written By Cesare
July 4, 2021, 1:17 p.m.(10/11/1015 AR)
Much discussion of fashion this week. I suspect it will surprise none to discover where I fall in this debate, though perhaps I am counting my chickens prematurely. The remarks upon the idea that clothing needs to serve another purpose aside from adornment amuse me; perhaps being that one of the new materials is leather, and we are used to seeing leather used for highly practical garments, we forget that adornment in itself is a purpose. For as long as we have known recorded history, we know that art has existed. And fashion is a form of art; decorating oneself is a tradition as old as history itself. Older, probably. Is it a matter of necessity? Perhaps not, in the sense that we think of shelter, food, drink. But what would the world be without beauty? How much less enriched would we find ourselves without sensory pleasure to delight, and mental stimulation to keep our minds active? Art is as much a baseline of culture as anything else. Something need not be practical in order to be valuable.
Likewise, some discussion of tastefulness has crossed my path. This is a difficult intersection at which to find oneself; the peerage are blessed in many ways, by blood, by wealth, by education, which often predispose them with the ability to create taste and trends. But my personal belief is that, regardless of predisposition of situation, there is an ineffable quality of courage, intuition, and confidence which truly creates a trendsetter. Certain people of any station could look fetching in a potato sack, and we ought to cultivate that sort of carefree self-belief, when it comes to fashion. As much as I advocate for artists and artisans, being one myself, I don't believe that we are the last word when it comes to our own creations. Often it's the interpretation of those creations when they're out of our hands which brings them to new heights. Particularly if our creations are tailor-made /for/ another person, as garments often are, why not delight in those new interpretations?
Perhaps I'm barking up the wrong tree entirely, however. I have little experience with luxury goods, and I am perfectly accepting of that. I admire the ingenuity and creativity of the creators of such goods from afar; for me, it's the craftsmanship and quality of a garment which matters, perhaps a stubborn remnant of my youth. I'm nonetheless deeply impressed by what Radiant Anisha, Lady Mabelle, and those who assisted them have managed to create. To make something new is a worthy undertaking indeed. Jayus is no doubt pleased.
I know I saw some of you at the Masquerade recently. I don't think anyone recognized me, in particular - but that's as designed. If you suspect you danced with me and would like to confirm or deny, do feel free to send a missive. I don't bite unless requested. It was an interesting evening; always fascinating to see how people behave when their identities are obscured.
Likewise, some discussion of tastefulness has crossed my path. This is a difficult intersection at which to find oneself; the peerage are blessed in many ways, by blood, by wealth, by education, which often predispose them with the ability to create taste and trends. But my personal belief is that, regardless of predisposition of situation, there is an ineffable quality of courage, intuition, and confidence which truly creates a trendsetter. Certain people of any station could look fetching in a potato sack, and we ought to cultivate that sort of carefree self-belief, when it comes to fashion. As much as I advocate for artists and artisans, being one myself, I don't believe that we are the last word when it comes to our own creations. Often it's the interpretation of those creations when they're out of our hands which brings them to new heights. Particularly if our creations are tailor-made /for/ another person, as garments often are, why not delight in those new interpretations?
Perhaps I'm barking up the wrong tree entirely, however. I have little experience with luxury goods, and I am perfectly accepting of that. I admire the ingenuity and creativity of the creators of such goods from afar; for me, it's the craftsmanship and quality of a garment which matters, perhaps a stubborn remnant of my youth. I'm nonetheless deeply impressed by what Radiant Anisha, Lady Mabelle, and those who assisted them have managed to create. To make something new is a worthy undertaking indeed. Jayus is no doubt pleased.
I know I saw some of you at the Masquerade recently. I don't think anyone recognized me, in particular - but that's as designed. If you suspect you danced with me and would like to confirm or deny, do feel free to send a missive. I don't bite unless requested. It was an interesting evening; always fascinating to see how people behave when their identities are obscured.
Written By Cesare
June 27, 2021, 5:34 p.m.(9/25/1015 AR)
The past few weeks have been full of questions. No, that's not quite the correct way of putting it - fraught with questions. Far be it from me to shy from questions; they're a primary tool of my vocation, and beside that, a tool one ought to use often along the path of life, I think. This is, doubtless, a familiar Southern refrain for many of you, but to look at a situation from another angle, to question the veracity of an opinion or a thought, is a core tenet of what I have found strengthens me. Likewise, however, there is tremendous value in knowing when to let questions lie and allow a situation to reveal what it may of itself. Much to be learned by what is revealed or hidden there, too. And I always try to keep in mind that one cannot see /all/ of anything. Least of all a person. I think often of how difficult it is to truly know even ourselves - and then, try to imagine truly knowing another being. There's joy in that, though there is also pain and sorrow. But how dull it would be, were we not always discovering new sides of ourselves - and others - throughout our lives.
So often, conflict comes down to questions of morality. Values. Particularly in much of what I have been engaged in recently, with the growth and expansion of the Compact, the heightened state that loss and anger leave us in makes it difficult to bridge gaps that might not otherwise seem so insurmountable. In large part, however, that's precisely a Whisper's job; or at least, I've thought so, and I've tried my best. I will continue to try my best.
I've been meditating a great deal on the concept of loyalty these past days, as well. What does it mean, to be loyal? There is a difference, I think, between loyalty and obedience. Limerance is, after all, not a blind god; we enter into our oaths with eyes open, and thus we should navigate them. I contend that the greatest loyalty is one which is not afraid to know when to question, to know when to forge ahead, or when to tug the hand it holds and say 'stay, wait a while, let us think on this.' It's not a thing which travels behind, eyes always fixed at the footsteps of the one ahead - true loyalty walks by our sides, ready to face what challenges the thorny path presents with open eyes and open heart.
These are only my own thoughts, however, and I am no scholar nor theologian. That I have spent most of my life in Setarco will, I hope, be some explanation to any who may find such thoughts subversive. Still: I find it worthy of note that while our Pantheon has gods of Honor, Fidelity, and Order, it does not have a god of obedience.
So often, conflict comes down to questions of morality. Values. Particularly in much of what I have been engaged in recently, with the growth and expansion of the Compact, the heightened state that loss and anger leave us in makes it difficult to bridge gaps that might not otherwise seem so insurmountable. In large part, however, that's precisely a Whisper's job; or at least, I've thought so, and I've tried my best. I will continue to try my best.
I've been meditating a great deal on the concept of loyalty these past days, as well. What does it mean, to be loyal? There is a difference, I think, between loyalty and obedience. Limerance is, after all, not a blind god; we enter into our oaths with eyes open, and thus we should navigate them. I contend that the greatest loyalty is one which is not afraid to know when to question, to know when to forge ahead, or when to tug the hand it holds and say 'stay, wait a while, let us think on this.' It's not a thing which travels behind, eyes always fixed at the footsteps of the one ahead - true loyalty walks by our sides, ready to face what challenges the thorny path presents with open eyes and open heart.
These are only my own thoughts, however, and I am no scholar nor theologian. That I have spent most of my life in Setarco will, I hope, be some explanation to any who may find such thoughts subversive. Still: I find it worthy of note that while our Pantheon has gods of Honor, Fidelity, and Order, it does not have a god of obedience.
Written By Cesare
June 26, 2021, 11:43 a.m.(9/23/1015 AR)
Some weeks the weight feels heavier than others.
Written By Cesare
June 26, 2021, 11:42 a.m.(9/23/1015 AR)
Some weeks, the weight feels heavier than others.
Written By Cesare
June 18, 2021, 6:29 p.m.(9/7/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Zakhar
A duo of suggested addendums:
5. Beware of swinging a pan in close quarters.
6. Orland hits back.
5. Beware of swinging a pan in close quarters.
6. Orland hits back.
Written By Cesare
June 15, 2021, 1:02 p.m.(9/1/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Raimon
Were you at the Kennex party this past evening, and I didn't see you? It was indeed a lovely time, and a chance to meet members of the Kennex family I hadn't had the pleasure yet. The crab boil was divine.
Written By Cesare
June 13, 2021, 2:01 p.m.(8/25/1015 AR)
What a week it's been. Week? More than that, I think. I hardly know where to start. When I joked in my last White about having something more eventful to report, I didn't anticipate so much upheaval, although again, very little of it is fit to share here. I feel as if I've aged a year in about a month, although you wouldn't know it to look at me. Just that I've been in the sun - several kind people have asked me if I've perhaps been on a vacation, or enjoying the beach.
Our aid mission to Tremorus was as successful as I believe it could have been, given the circumstances. It was painful to see such a proud and vibrant people struggling in the ruins of a city which was so clearly a beautiful and treasured jewel. It was painful to watch conflict between Arvani aid workers and native Arakkoans, two groups of people ostensibly on the same side, but with mutual displeasure about the circumstance which had brought them together. I did my best to smooth over the tensions - it became a matter of necessity when a terrible storm arose and we were forced to evacuate our makeshift shelter for a cavern further upmountain. In any case I believe I've gotten a better handle on what the Arakkoans - and by extension, the residents of the Saffron Chain in general - expect as part of the Compact, and what value they bring to us as a whole people working together. I'm sure some will balk at that statement, at the idea that these new vassals have expectations at all, but if our choice is to tighten our fists rather than extending open hands, opportunity, safety, and strength will only slip through our fingers, leaving us open to the tender mercies of foes who are all-too-ready to see us brought low. Better to bend a little than to break entirely. (Of course a Whisper would say that, you're thinking.)
I fear the city looked worse when we left than it did when we arrived. The storm destroyed a number of structures which were on the verge of collapse already. But at least the people have food, supplies, and medical aid. I'll return again, if asked. Perhaps with a sun hat.
As if that weren't enough, I've also been attending my usual roster of events in Arx on either side of that jaunt to the south. Lady Medeia's poetry event was a pleasure. Such erudite company! And she always has the best refreshments. My internal rhyme of the day: Saik wine, so divine. If I could, I'd drink it all the time. And of course Lady Medeia herself is always the most gracious of hostesses, and nobody even drowned. I also had the pleasure of providing musical entertainment at Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius' dance aboard his ship this past evening, which was a rollicking good time and left my fingers quite tired. Never have I seen guests (or host) so eager to prove me wrong that Setarcans have the fastest of feet. We do, but I wasn't able to cement my claim as I was busy playing, so Evaristo took that title for the evening, though Marquessa Demura Lyonesse certainly put up a very solid effort. Impressive!
A final note: I've found myself patronless. I am in no great hurry to secure another, and won't be placing a classified ad for that particular reason, but anyone who is interested in a rather lackadaisical protege with entirely too much on his plate and little to offer other than charming company and social connections may send a missive. I promise precisely nothing in return.
Our aid mission to Tremorus was as successful as I believe it could have been, given the circumstances. It was painful to see such a proud and vibrant people struggling in the ruins of a city which was so clearly a beautiful and treasured jewel. It was painful to watch conflict between Arvani aid workers and native Arakkoans, two groups of people ostensibly on the same side, but with mutual displeasure about the circumstance which had brought them together. I did my best to smooth over the tensions - it became a matter of necessity when a terrible storm arose and we were forced to evacuate our makeshift shelter for a cavern further upmountain. In any case I believe I've gotten a better handle on what the Arakkoans - and by extension, the residents of the Saffron Chain in general - expect as part of the Compact, and what value they bring to us as a whole people working together. I'm sure some will balk at that statement, at the idea that these new vassals have expectations at all, but if our choice is to tighten our fists rather than extending open hands, opportunity, safety, and strength will only slip through our fingers, leaving us open to the tender mercies of foes who are all-too-ready to see us brought low. Better to bend a little than to break entirely. (Of course a Whisper would say that, you're thinking.)
I fear the city looked worse when we left than it did when we arrived. The storm destroyed a number of structures which were on the verge of collapse already. But at least the people have food, supplies, and medical aid. I'll return again, if asked. Perhaps with a sun hat.
As if that weren't enough, I've also been attending my usual roster of events in Arx on either side of that jaunt to the south. Lady Medeia's poetry event was a pleasure. Such erudite company! And she always has the best refreshments. My internal rhyme of the day: Saik wine, so divine. If I could, I'd drink it all the time. And of course Lady Medeia herself is always the most gracious of hostesses, and nobody even drowned. I also had the pleasure of providing musical entertainment at Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius' dance aboard his ship this past evening, which was a rollicking good time and left my fingers quite tired. Never have I seen guests (or host) so eager to prove me wrong that Setarcans have the fastest of feet. We do, but I wasn't able to cement my claim as I was busy playing, so Evaristo took that title for the evening, though Marquessa Demura Lyonesse certainly put up a very solid effort. Impressive!
A final note: I've found myself patronless. I am in no great hurry to secure another, and won't be placing a classified ad for that particular reason, but anyone who is interested in a rather lackadaisical protege with entirely too much on his plate and little to offer other than charming company and social connections may send a missive. I promise precisely nothing in return.
Written By Cesare
June 6, 2021, 12:40 p.m.(8/11/1015 AR)
I suppose it's that time again. Yes, I only seem to catalogue social events, I realize. I'm not sure what else one might come to expect from the public reminiscings of a Whisper, but here, as usual, we find ourselves once more - this week on the threshold of the newly-opened Cavaedium within the Embassy of Scales, truly a feat of aesthetic planning and design whose excellence ought to be acknowledged openly. I've never had the privilege of meeting any Cardians before, and Tribune Livy played the role of hostess with all the adeptness and grace a Whisper could possibly hope to compliment, despite the overwhelming success of the event which meant she was at all times overrun with well-wishers and greeters. I only did my best to keep up with those I intended to speak to - and my best to provide a proper escort to Lord Apollo, although I should probably apologize for abandoning him to his own devices in order to attend said social obligations. But I'm sure he understand, or ought to, having done his own time in Whisper House.
Also, perhaps predictably, as the summer wears on and the parade of parties and events continues, I find myself becoming prodigiously busy. Between what I need to do and what I want to do, there are hardly enough hours in the day. I travel to Tremorus soon, with the best of intentions and the hope that those intentions and my relative inexperience don't combine to make a fool of me. I've agreed to perform at Mockingbird Evaristo's fete shortly after my return and will also be taking a role in his musical production. Guildmaster Caprice, Samira Culler, and I are attempting to plan a party of our own given our multitude of mutual interests, and I've also committed to performing at Caprice's Autumn Faire. So - as you can see - I've filled my plate rather thoroughly.
I think that's all I have to say for now, publicly. Doubtless you've been waiting breathlessly on the edge of your seats to hear what I've been up to, and hanging on every word of my thrilling tale of hobnobbing and fraternization. Don't worry - perhaps next week I'll be eaten by a were-crocodile, and that will surely make for a more interesting journal entry.
Also, perhaps predictably, as the summer wears on and the parade of parties and events continues, I find myself becoming prodigiously busy. Between what I need to do and what I want to do, there are hardly enough hours in the day. I travel to Tremorus soon, with the best of intentions and the hope that those intentions and my relative inexperience don't combine to make a fool of me. I've agreed to perform at Mockingbird Evaristo's fete shortly after my return and will also be taking a role in his musical production. Guildmaster Caprice, Samira Culler, and I are attempting to plan a party of our own given our multitude of mutual interests, and I've also committed to performing at Caprice's Autumn Faire. So - as you can see - I've filled my plate rather thoroughly.
I think that's all I have to say for now, publicly. Doubtless you've been waiting breathlessly on the edge of your seats to hear what I've been up to, and hanging on every word of my thrilling tale of hobnobbing and fraternization. Don't worry - perhaps next week I'll be eaten by a were-crocodile, and that will surely make for a more interesting journal entry.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.