Written By Esoka
Oct. 21, 2018, 7:35 p.m.(11/7/1009 AR)
It did my heart good to attend to the blessing ceremony. Mother Bianca and all of the Faith paid good tribute to the gods, and my I feel my soul girded to face what is to come. I and those I love shall face terrible dangers in the days to come. I pray to Gloria that my courage holds, to Petrichor that my blade protects the land of the Lodge well. And to all the gods, be with us as we confront this foe, and may the virtues triumph over the dark of the Abyss.
Written By Esoka
Oct. 14, 2018, 2:08 a.m.(10/11/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Jyri
The run wasn't that hard! It was just brisk! Do it each day and it'll get easier. Do it in armor, and you'll be solid as an oak in a few month's time.
For clarity to Vellichor, I had the honor of taking Guard Jyri Tersk through some paces in the honing of athleticism. And I got to meet his dogs! They were lovely and made me want another pet, though I think we'd do better with a cat. They're supposed to be lucky, and good at catching rodents, which is always handy in the Lowers.
For clarity to Vellichor, I had the honor of taking Guard Jyri Tersk through some paces in the honing of athleticism. And I got to meet his dogs! They were lovely and made me want another pet, though I think we'd do better with a cat. They're supposed to be lucky, and good at catching rodents, which is always handy in the Lowers.
Written By Esoka
Oct. 5, 2018, 2:27 p.m.(9/22/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
I'm starting to think you secretly enjoy being yelled at.
I am unsure how I feel about this.
Also, do not die. I'll endeavor not to, either.
I am unsure how I feel about this.
Also, do not die. I'll endeavor not to, either.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 30, 2018, 6:51 p.m.(9/12/1009 AR)
My days are spent working with the other disciples of Gloria, to prepare to aid in defense of the Lodge. It is much the same as the marshaling for war I've done with the Rivens more times than I can count. That I watched my grandfather do with the bloodwarriors of our tribe when I was a girl. I wonder what he would think if he beheld me with the Templars. It was he who told me the first stories of Gloria and Limerance I learned, yet the telling of them on his knee was a very different thing than that I hear in the shrines. It feels right. It feels a good fight and a good way to go to it. I think that, he would have been happy for.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 29, 2018, 1:29 p.m.(9/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
You should come over for dinner for more Lowers catfish soon! They have a very unique flavor, though I concur it is best not to think about why. I've been teaching Harper and Magpie's boy, Pie, to fish with the very pretty pole Magpie made for me. Mostly we have just been catching boots and bits of refuse, but that is the fun challenge of fishing in the Lowers.
Written By Esoka
Sept. 9, 2018, 8:09 p.m.(7/24/1009 AR)
I met Harper and Magpie's adopted boy, Pie, today. He seems a fine lad. Sturdy and sweet and interested in books, which usually suggests a mind that works. They've asked me to be his godmother, a great honor, and I've decided to accept. He's not old enough to start on hitting things, really, but there are other important lessons I can teach him. I think we'll start with fishing.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 30, 2018, 11:09 p.m.(6/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
Do you get hit with chairs so often people assume?
Your job is so interesting.
And confusing.
Your job is so interesting.
And confusing.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 28, 2018, 5:24 p.m.(6/24/1009 AR)
I feel no regret that I bled and could have died and watched good men and women die upon the field of Stormwall. I was proud do to my part and serve the Compact, and aid Redrain and Crovane in the stand against the Abyss. I go forward trying to live in a way that respects the sacrifices of people like Lady Eirlys, and the many Templars and Riven sworn I called friends.
It is sometimes hard to remember that pride as I visit the Archives.
But I will try to keep in my heart that the ordinary folk of Stormwall were worth the blood and sacrifice, and do my best to think less on others. A knight does not choose their leader or lord sometimes, but if the cause was worthy, that should be enough.
It is sometimes hard to remember that pride as I visit the Archives.
But I will try to keep in my heart that the ordinary folk of Stormwall were worth the blood and sacrifice, and do my best to think less on others. A knight does not choose their leader or lord sometimes, but if the cause was worthy, that should be enough.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 26, 2018, 10:34 p.m.(6/20/1009 AR)
I rode in honor of Prince Barric Grayson, who would have become a Templar but for his death, this day. The joust was a bracing event, which I think my mount, the noble Dapperhoof, reveled in more than I did. His deft hooves and sharp reflexes managed to win us third place, and for that I give all honors to my horse. He is as steady a warhorse as one could hope for. And, if he loves to play for the crowd, I cannot deny him a the dramatics. It was fun!
As for Prince Barric, he was a man I had the honor of sparring with and rowing with and serving with on a mission a time or two. I found him to be as sturdy a blade as any the Compact had ever produced, a worthy wielder of Elvesbane. I think he would've served Gloria well, and mourn that both he and the Templars lost that chance. I shall be proud I knew him, if in some small capacity, and drink a toast to his memory.
As for Prince Barric, he was a man I had the honor of sparring with and rowing with and serving with on a mission a time or two. I found him to be as sturdy a blade as any the Compact had ever produced, a worthy wielder of Elvesbane. I think he would've served Gloria well, and mourn that both he and the Templars lost that chance. I shall be proud I knew him, if in some small capacity, and drink a toast to his memory.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 17, 2018, 1:24 p.m.(6/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Rhea
Lady Rhea Acheron, Marquessa of Aviaron’s Peak, has become my husband’s patron. Which I think is going to do him a lot of good. He needs help with many things sometimes, and I don’t always know how to do it if it can’t be approached by constructive yelling. As for the Marquessa herself, she's a rather grand Northern lady who seems to be dealing competently with the domain she rules and the people she manages, even if she didn’t expect to have to take charge of it. I like her, and the other Acheron folk, and look forward to more dinners. Their house is so interesting! And they serve good whiskey, which always makes better friends.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 9, 2018, 2:04 p.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
I’ve been married for a year now to Calaudrin Estardes who is also Greenbood. A year and a month or so, properly, but I’ve been thinking on how I feel about it and am just setting it down for Vellichor now. Our anniversary passed while we were on the road, traveling with stalwart companions on an adventure that we're still figuring out the full importance of. I didn’t even realize the date until we got back. This seems proper to me. We’ve never been fussy about dates or special occasions, but our lives weave together naturally, in such ways that make it hard for me to remember a time when he wasn’t in mine.
I was talking to someone about marriage not long ago, and I said on the whole I liked it very much. To me, it’s come to mean you’ve an ally you can lean on against what the world throws at you on your hardest days, even if you yell at each other about things privately (the yelling is also fun sometimes). It means you’ve someone to share your joy with when things are wonderful. And on the days that are just ordinary, you’ve a companion to talk on them with and just be with during the smaller, quieter moments. I never thought much about getting married. I’m no highborn and could have gone on with just myself all right, I think. But it suits me, and has expanded my life and heart in ways I’m still feeling out, to my betterment. I think I’ll keep on with it, so long as he’ll have me.
So, Calaudrin Estardes and also Greenblood, on the occasion of our first year of marriage, let it be known that I love you and shall continue to do so for the rest of my days, Limerance bless us both.
I was talking to someone about marriage not long ago, and I said on the whole I liked it very much. To me, it’s come to mean you’ve an ally you can lean on against what the world throws at you on your hardest days, even if you yell at each other about things privately (the yelling is also fun sometimes). It means you’ve someone to share your joy with when things are wonderful. And on the days that are just ordinary, you’ve a companion to talk on them with and just be with during the smaller, quieter moments. I never thought much about getting married. I’m no highborn and could have gone on with just myself all right, I think. But it suits me, and has expanded my life and heart in ways I’m still feeling out, to my betterment. I think I’ll keep on with it, so long as he’ll have me.
So, Calaudrin Estardes and also Greenblood, on the occasion of our first year of marriage, let it be known that I love you and shall continue to do so for the rest of my days, Limerance bless us both.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 7, 2018, 11:44 p.m.(5/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
I had the honor of witnessing Sina Izetta - now Sister Sina Godsworn - take her vows to become a priest of the Pantheon. I've known her but a short time, but in that she's proven herself to be a woman of bravery, a level head, and a sharp wit the Faith and Arvum sorely need right now. She'll do very well, I think, and I'm proud to call her a friend of mine.
Written By Esoka
Aug. 2, 2018, 11:59 a.m.(4/22/1009 AR)
It’s my sorrow to say I didn’t know Brother Martin well. I crossed his path a handful of times in the shrines. Keeping the place tidy, sharing a kind word with all who came, and just keeping the Faith strong in small, intangible ways. I have heard from Sir Jeffeth and Sir Andry and so many others of his impact on the lives of children, orphans who found their place with the Solace. His work made so many people better and more fulfilled, sometimes in such small ways they did not even realize its impact at the time. He is the best of what I think godsworn can be, and what a true hero is without bluster or hubris or grubbing for glory, and I’ll do my best to remember his example.
Written By Esoka
July 25, 2018, 2:05 p.m.(4/6/1009 AR)
Norwood Clement, Sword of Artshall, was good enough to invite me to attend a gathering of House Swords, even though my own time as Sword of the Twainfort has come to an end. I got to see heirloom blades I’d never beheld before, like Dagon Tyde’s Sword of the Malestrom and Cullen Greenmarch’s beautiful Greenmarch House sword. And see how newer Swords, like Kaldur Seliki, Mirari Corsetina, and Ian Kennex, were carrying the weight of their honors. Also there were cookies! It was a fine night among fellow warriors.
Inquisitor Alistair attended briefly to remind us that not all carry their Swords with honor at all times, and those stains are not easily forgotten. Nor should they be. Whatever justifications for our actions we bend toward after the fact, the world judges as it will and the Sentinel even higher than that. Particularly when the swing of your weapon carries not only your own honor, but that of the House you serve.
I pray my actions when I held the Twain were ones that honored it, and that I left the blade’s legacy in good repair when I passed it on. I confess I miss it, more than I thought I would. It was a constant reminder to guard my own honor and actions with extra care, and I think that’s good for a knight to have. It’s easy to fall prey to hubris or bullying or thinking you’re better than someone else just because you were dubbed. Now, I shall just have to carry the memory of it to keep me on the right path, and conduct myself as I feel a knight should without something – or someone – to remind me.
Inquisitor Alistair attended briefly to remind us that not all carry their Swords with honor at all times, and those stains are not easily forgotten. Nor should they be. Whatever justifications for our actions we bend toward after the fact, the world judges as it will and the Sentinel even higher than that. Particularly when the swing of your weapon carries not only your own honor, but that of the House you serve.
I pray my actions when I held the Twain were ones that honored it, and that I left the blade’s legacy in good repair when I passed it on. I confess I miss it, more than I thought I would. It was a constant reminder to guard my own honor and actions with extra care, and I think that’s good for a knight to have. It’s easy to fall prey to hubris or bullying or thinking you’re better than someone else just because you were dubbed. Now, I shall just have to carry the memory of it to keep me on the right path, and conduct myself as I feel a knight should without something – or someone – to remind me.
Written By Esoka
July 21, 2018, midnight(3/23/1009 AR)
It has been nearly three years since the Siege of Arx ended. I remember that battle for many things but, largest in my life, it was it was after it that I was asked by House Riven to take up the duties as Sword of the Twainfort. I have carried the Twain with as much honor and commitment to my tribe and sworn lieges as I know how. Long before I became Sword, I was a sworn knight, and a soldier without title before that. Such service has been my life for nearly fifteen years, since I was old enough to hold a blade and call myself a blood warrior. I pray I have executed my duties to my House as a knight in a way that does good service to Limerance.
But before I was a Sword, a knight, a warrior, I was a follower of the gods of the Pantheon. The stories of Gloria my grandfather told me still sing in my heart when times are darkest. My faith was the foundation of my life after I bent the knee, when all else seemed uncertain. In my youth I considered becoming godsworn, but I could never reconcile my commitment to my tribe and want of a family with the demands of the priesthood. I have sought other ways to serve, especially as a disciple of Gloria. My appointment as disciple leader a few months past was one of the proudest moments of my life. But it also made me think long on my commitments, and my calling at this time in my life.
And so, I've decided to put aside the Sword, to focus on my work with the Faith. There are many fine knights in the Twainfort, and I'm sure one of them will serve Countess Mia and Count Thesarin admirably. While I shall perhaps never be able to make the full commitment those brothers and sisters of the godsworn do, I will be dedicating myself to my discipleship on a full-time basis. There is only so much a lay worshipper can do, but I can do more and want to do more. I hope this focus will aid the Templars as they rebuild after the grave losses at Stormwall, and aid my own soul as I explore my connection to Gloria and try to live up to her virtues.
In the coming months I intend to undertake pilgrimages throughout Arvum and get to know the people in the various Templar parishes throughout the Five Kingdoms. To understand how those of different paths and backgrounds embrace their faith, and to use my knightly service in aid of the common folk, regardless of fealty. I shall still work primarily in Arx, of course, with Sir Preston and Archlector Cassandra, as they would have me. And I can't leave my husband alone for very long. So, I shall be around. I pray I find good service with the realm and the goddess of war, so well as I can.
But before I was a Sword, a knight, a warrior, I was a follower of the gods of the Pantheon. The stories of Gloria my grandfather told me still sing in my heart when times are darkest. My faith was the foundation of my life after I bent the knee, when all else seemed uncertain. In my youth I considered becoming godsworn, but I could never reconcile my commitment to my tribe and want of a family with the demands of the priesthood. I have sought other ways to serve, especially as a disciple of Gloria. My appointment as disciple leader a few months past was one of the proudest moments of my life. But it also made me think long on my commitments, and my calling at this time in my life.
And so, I've decided to put aside the Sword, to focus on my work with the Faith. There are many fine knights in the Twainfort, and I'm sure one of them will serve Countess Mia and Count Thesarin admirably. While I shall perhaps never be able to make the full commitment those brothers and sisters of the godsworn do, I will be dedicating myself to my discipleship on a full-time basis. There is only so much a lay worshipper can do, but I can do more and want to do more. I hope this focus will aid the Templars as they rebuild after the grave losses at Stormwall, and aid my own soul as I explore my connection to Gloria and try to live up to her virtues.
In the coming months I intend to undertake pilgrimages throughout Arvum and get to know the people in the various Templar parishes throughout the Five Kingdoms. To understand how those of different paths and backgrounds embrace their faith, and to use my knightly service in aid of the common folk, regardless of fealty. I shall still work primarily in Arx, of course, with Sir Preston and Archlector Cassandra, as they would have me. And I can't leave my husband alone for very long. So, I shall be around. I pray I find good service with the realm and the goddess of war, so well as I can.
Written By Esoka
July 17, 2018, 9:41 p.m.(3/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
Well you aren't boring NOW. You have hobbies. And also me.
Written By Esoka
July 17, 2018, 7:49 p.m.(3/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
Now that you mention it, you could use hobbies. I have advice.
Have you tried sketching? That was the hobby Calaudrin picked when he realized he was boring and needed them, and it's worked out well. Or you could take up the banjo. That's usually funny, even if someone is very bad at it.
You could also get a pet. Cats are popular now. And people say they're lucky, though I've always liked dogs better.
Don't worry, Sir Preston, I'm sure if the Templars put our minds to it, we can find you many hobbies.
Have you tried sketching? That was the hobby Calaudrin picked when he realized he was boring and needed them, and it's worked out well. Or you could take up the banjo. That's usually funny, even if someone is very bad at it.
You could also get a pet. Cats are popular now. And people say they're lucky, though I've always liked dogs better.
Don't worry, Sir Preston, I'm sure if the Templars put our minds to it, we can find you many hobbies.
Written By Esoka
July 8, 2018, 10:25 p.m.(2/27/1009 AR)
I shall now commit to the Archives for all time an account of the Great Snowball Battle of 1009.
On the field were assembled Compact citizens of all stripes by the good Amanda Whisper, to do honorable snow combat for the glory of the Crown. The teams were assembled. I was chosen to fight beside our steadfast leaders, Princess Tikva Grayson and the peerless Captain Tiber Riven. By my side was Aleksei Morgan and the ADORABLE Fitz, Master Waldemai, Sir Jeffeth, Lady Lethe, and Master Jonathan. We faced off against our fearsome opponents led by Dame Felicia of the King's Own, and represented by Count Artorius, Prince Niklas, Lord Geralt, Lady Azova, and Master Ven. All who held the field this day shall be remembered in the halls of history.
We faced off against each other and the battle was fierce. Balls of snow flew this and way that with the speed of the fiercest arrows and strength of battering rams. It was a long and valiant struggle that Dame Felicia's team gave us. But, in the end, our side was victorious, and we claimed the...snow.
Let the bards write songs of our valor and stamina against the cold.
I shall be back next year, if it's held again. This was entirely fun.
On the field were assembled Compact citizens of all stripes by the good Amanda Whisper, to do honorable snow combat for the glory of the Crown. The teams were assembled. I was chosen to fight beside our steadfast leaders, Princess Tikva Grayson and the peerless Captain Tiber Riven. By my side was Aleksei Morgan and the ADORABLE Fitz, Master Waldemai, Sir Jeffeth, Lady Lethe, and Master Jonathan. We faced off against our fearsome opponents led by Dame Felicia of the King's Own, and represented by Count Artorius, Prince Niklas, Lord Geralt, Lady Azova, and Master Ven. All who held the field this day shall be remembered in the halls of history.
We faced off against each other and the battle was fierce. Balls of snow flew this and way that with the speed of the fiercest arrows and strength of battering rams. It was a long and valiant struggle that Dame Felicia's team gave us. But, in the end, our side was victorious, and we claimed the...snow.
Let the bards write songs of our valor and stamina against the cold.
I shall be back next year, if it's held again. This was entirely fun.
Written By Esoka
July 7, 2018, 11:52 p.m.(2/25/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
MY HUSBAND IS THE BEST AT ARCHERY!!!!!
Written By Esoka
July 6, 2018, 12:15 p.m.(2/22/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Magnus
I recently had the honor of meeting Count Magnus Stahlben, the leader of a newly-sworn prodigal House in the Northlands. Seraph Ailith and I will soon be undertaking missionary work for the Faith in his lands, but first we’re studying his people and traditions. They are very different things from the ones I grew up with, and the ones I’ve adopted since bending the knee, but there are many commonalities I think we can work with. Including ones that may strengthen the Compact as a whole, once we fully understand them. He strikes me as a man of formidable strength and character, who’s made a bold step to do right by his people. And stand against our mutual enemies.
I’m filled with purpose as I begin this work. My faith was, for me, one of the few things that made sense when I first became prodigal. It has been the roots on which my life here has grown. I do not always care for the way some attempt to bring the scholarship of Faith to the others. So, if I think I can do it better, I’d best get to work. The gods belong to all, even if we do not fully understand the ways in which they show themselves in the hearts of strangers.
I’m filled with purpose as I begin this work. My faith was, for me, one of the few things that made sense when I first became prodigal. It has been the roots on which my life here has grown. I do not always care for the way some attempt to bring the scholarship of Faith to the others. So, if I think I can do it better, I’d best get to work. The gods belong to all, even if we do not fully understand the ways in which they show themselves in the hearts of strangers.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.