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Written By Orland

Sept. 19, 2021, 9:24 p.m.(3/25/1016 AR)

Relationship Note on Giada

Without your guidance over the last six months... I would've never dared to think what was possible. Thank you.

Written By Orland

Sept. 19, 2021, 9:11 p.m.(3/25/1016 AR)

Relationship Note on Savio

So much went into our political contract between Amadeo and Proscipi. I spent two years into gaining a friendship with House Proscipi by aiding them in numerous ways and then fighting with them by their side in two massive wars... Then there were the exceptional circumstances that had to align...

It truly feels like for the Gods themselves made it possible.

I will soon get to call you my Lord husband in the eyes of all... but the Archlector is not going to make it easy....

Still, with you at my side the future is going to be well worth living.

Written By Orland

Aug. 22, 2021, 6:15 p.m.(1/25/1016 AR)

Relationship Note on Giada

Thoughts of being a protege ... to an Archlector....of Bastion...

That really hurt. She didn't really prepare me much for what she was about to do, cut inside of me to right something that was very wrong. You see, I had this strange notion of following Lord Savio to Bastion, to do our part as nobles and show our support to the Faith. Why not?! Neither of us had been to Bastion before, so we went. And of course... we decided to be there the day that another city fell down around our ears.

My act in Bastion was fairly small. I managed to find a way out for people to follow, through the debris and away from a giant black knight welding what I call was a hammer of sorrow upon the people. It'd make the whole ground shake every time it was swung against the earth, several times making the cobblestones of the street shatter... We had to get away, there wasn't enough of us to fight whatever that /thing/ was, on top of the endless mass of Shavs coming through the broken walls...

But somewhere in finding our way through the city that was falling in around us, and ships being tossed through the air, the damn ground exploded up around me and a giant centipede with a woman riding it came up out of no where. I don't remember much after that since I was flung against a wall... and that said wall collapsed in around me.

I do remember being in darkness afterwards, confused... tired, hurting all over. I also remember asking Lord Savio to marry me. And then I wake up to have my patron's fingers inside of me stitching me up! I'm quite sure I don't want to experience that sort of pain again. It's a pain that comes with a nice long scar...

They tell me Bastion has fallen and is overrun. I think what I can do from where I write now, at my bed. I'm not sure what I can do yet, but I know I have the best patron I could have right now. She's supporting me in ways I've never had from those outside my family. I truly admire her, despite her enjoyment of cutting me open. I'm pretty sure she enjoyed it.

But, Archlector Giada, you have my eternal thanks.

Written By Orland

July 29, 2021, 3:32 p.m.(12/5/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a student ... a protege, finding a patron...yet again....

I look back to the patrons I had prior. I've had two since coming back to Arx.

The first was Marquis Dio. He relinquished our agreement when he spoke to me before the Saffron Chain war, preparing to sail off and make a difference. We all know he never returned, so it is my hope that he rests soundly in peace, in the seas that had been so often where his heart was. What he gave to me was adventure and wanderlust. I admit, maybe the treasure hunting wanderlust. He also entrusted some of his goals and ambitions with me. That is what I really wanted in a patron, not for some net gain, but for learning perspectives of life that wasn't ours to live, learning from someone who came with different ideals and backgrounds. I feel grateful for him, because valued what I brought to the table, and given that validation that is harder to find in my shoes, it meant a lot. He had my loyalty and sometimes I wonder if I could've helped him survive whatever ordeal he faced there out in the vastness of the sea.

My second was Knight Grandmaster of the Order of East Light, Princess Coraline Thrax. I didn't get to spend too much time with her, honestly, before her priorities shifted and she felt a strong urge to return to her roaming pilgrimages. I admire her and bless her journey and hope she'll return to Arx one day and tell me all about it. She moved me though, when I first met her, with her valor and her zeal for living her life dedicated to a Knighthood, so strongly that I signed up as a Squire. This is what I wanted in a patron as well - someone who could influence me, help me take a path to better myself. She thrashed me hard, not a few times, in the training ring. I continue on with the Order of East Light, training when time affords me. One day, I hope to earn the honor of being Knighted.

Finally... I've found another, who has given me an opportunity to develop a relationship with them in a way that could in fact, change my life. She has taken the time out of her day, out of her journey, out of her life, to walk in this arrangement with me. Archlector Giada of the Thirteenth has extended her experience and knowledge to me. We've only just settled upon the agreement of this rapport between us, but already I know I will have a lot to share with her and she with me. I am humbled and excited to work with the Archlector, to further myself and to better who I am as a person. I do not regret searching for this type of relationship, as they've only ever rounded me out as a person and lead me toward outcomes I would've never dreamed of without them. I'm so curious where my third patronage will take me.

I feel my patronages have given me ample wealth and value that will stay with me for life. They were strangers to me before the invitation was made, and I can honestly say, I would be loyal unto any of them after, no matter where their own lives go once our arrangement comes to an end. There as been no better way for me to experience personal growth than at the side of someone far more accomplished.

Written By Orland

May 30, 2021, 3:08 p.m.(7/25/1015 AR)

Thoughts of performing... and singing in front of a large crowd...

When Apprentice Aconite Whisper asked for performers, at once I put my name in with Savio's, not quite knowing what would be expected or asked of us. I'm glad we did the festival, getting up on stage again, filled me with a different sort of rush than one gets when ... well, it's different. I was nervous but I was also confident that beside Savio and with friends there, such as Cesare, Zakhar (although something was off with him), and Cassiopeia, it'd go fine. This was my second time singing in front of a crowd. It does get easier, singing.

The fans liked me so much I had to perform in tents, mobbed into doing other little requests by the dozen! The second night I didn't bring the lute, so there was some disappointment, until they saw the juggling acts and card tricks. The knives set on fire and juggled, probably my best feature of the night, despite there being a small crowd to see it.

I feel like I would only perform with others on a large stage though.

Written By Orland

May 23, 2021, 8:12 p.m.(7/11/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Romulius

Thoughts of reflecting upon my anger...

I was angry. I was ready to quit pursuing being a knight. I was ready to scream.... and I did, at Lord Romulius. I screamed, I debased myself, I called the Peerage and myself, many words I cannot repeat, for I know they came from the burning sense of failure that I let my people down... I led them into a war where they died and were left to die. Against the advice of my Peers, the generals, who seemed to have some notion of what was going to happen, I demanded the forces of Amadeo help our allies and settle in Tremorus for the impending attack.

He listened to me rage and weep until I had nothing left inside... But then he gave me words of wisdom.

I won't quit the Order of East Light... not day. For this man alone.

Written By Orland

May 23, 2021, 8:01 p.m.(7/11/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Savio

Thoughts of... taking a moment to forget all the carnage .... and dance...

It's nearly been a year since I met Savio Pontelaeus, now Lord Savio Proscipi... It's been a year that's changed so many things for me, I can't even begin to reflect properly. He's been a constant through all the chaos, though all the hardships, through all the fun times and beautiful moments. I think often back to our time on Pieros beach, just him and I, in a secluded cove with white sand, my arms wrapped around him. I thought, if anything, all I'd get to do is hold my man in private. Now, I don't have to. He always wanted me to take him to dance, so, I did. The Celestial ball held by Marquessa Quenia gave us a night to escape all the horrific things we witnessed at Tremorus... a night we both needed, with good friends, such as Lord Apollo and Cesare Whisper. I... owe that to Savio as well, to help me see people in a manner that I'm not accustomed too.

However, the ball, I will never forget being able to take Savio to his first Arvum ball and dance with him all night.

We've been through a lot together.

Written By Orland

May 15, 2021, 9:59 p.m.(6/23/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a host...and one filled with gratitude...

The Days Events Are Over! I survived ...

Thank you to House Pravus for your Generous $500,000 donation to obtain prizes for the evening!

Thank You To The Artists: Evaristo, Zyxthylum, Cufre, Lady Kalani, Claude, and Lord Valerian! As well as our special event donation from Princess Jaenelle!

Thank you to Radiant Anisha Whisper for Donating Stygian to the event, as well as ... the individual who dropped things all over the Mercurial Mettalurgist! I donated what I found forward!

Thank you to ALL the story tellers of the day! Lord Wash, Zakhar, Lord Savio, Lady Clarisse, Lady Mabelle, Evaristo!

Best In Show of the Art Competition went to Artistan Zyxthylum! Congratulations!

Congratulations also to our 50/50 winner of our large $283,000 pot!

Shake 'Em for the Love of Healing Raised over $1 Million silver, with half alotted for both the Physician Guild and the Mercies of Lagoma.

Congratulations also to the highest bidders who were lucky enough to walk away with a very unique item!

May this help in the efforts of spreading such talent, all over the Compact.

Written By Orland

May 9, 2021, 12:01 a.m.(6/10/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a survivor... of Tremorus...

I was there. I brought soldiers and sailors of Amadeo to help. My people died alongside those of Tremorus innocents and their defenders.

I will always remember that......

Written By Orland

April 19, 2021, 1:16 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Aindre

Thoughts of a potential... differences, experiences, shared wisdom and ... maybe a mentor...

I only met his Highness, once, when he came to the Bard College. Yet, his message on the classifieds aid caused me to fire back a missive to him about the subject matter. I dare say, I let my quill fly across that page.

Upon sharing to one another, openly, I've been able to learn the perspectives of someone who was born to his station. I have come to respect how he writes to me and how encouraging his letters are, even if the last was quite a novel in itself. I was always one for reading. What I ultimately respect, is the fact that he was understanding, reflective, and gave my words weight where perhaps he didn't have to. Here is a man who will listen, who does hold value of discussion, debate, and those who have merit, as well as those who follow traditions. Here is a man who I would give many hours too, so I could learn more perspectives of this dream, than that which I carry.

Maybe I'll get that opportunity, soon.

Written By Orland

April 19, 2021, 12:43 p.m.(4/27/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a student... on leaders, on respect ... earning it versus demanding it...

I know, simply because you have a title, doesn't mean people will respect you while you wear it. A bow, a smile, praises, these can be taught and faked. A title given, is one that can be taken away. Most of all I know that. Respect is earned and never demanded. I am a mere student of leadership and I would never claim to know all the ways, but if you are acting superior to all others, then at least there should be a council granted to you, if you know not the ways of how to respond.

I have gained much, and dwell upon the responsibilities of my station. Even now, I can see that some people may ne naturally inclined to despise me for what I have and what they want. But I should not hold ire to them, for their looks.

Mindfully, in other more hopeful strides, I took in an old lady from the Lowers, her name is Laurin. She was sleeping in a hovel about to be taken down for better development. She was frail, hungry, cold. Her knees are bothersome and she had no family. Last night, she slept in comfort, like a queen. She had all the food and comfort and joys she could hope for. She also told me stories about her past, what had caused her to fall into such a despair. I'd like to think she has family now, with House Amadeo, and perhaps when she's stronger she can manage the trip to Bravura. It's in the small decisions like this, that I think can make an impact, and perhaps, that I hope I can be a good leader too, someday... earning it, not demanding it.

Written By Orland

April 17, 2021, 10:58 p.m.(4/24/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a student.... on the abandoned... and prodigals and neo-noble....

Not all whom are called abandoned, choose to abandon the Compact. In the years of the Reckoning, many were abandoned by the Compact.
History is written by the victors, and some victors decide to hide that which paints them in a dark light... History isn't written by those who were lost, when the battles were lost, we don't remember those who were left behind. Clearly, otherwise we wouldn't be finding so many and having them join us in recent history! I remember such tales when I was a kid, first hearing about all the refugees coming to join us in the lowers. How that swelled the numbers in the orphanage.

As for prodigals? The ones I know, have a fresh set of ideas and are helpful in changing the world around them for the better. Apparently, to remain unchanged, is a bad reflection. So I'm glad they're changing, rejoining the Compact. It's good for them, and us. We have a lot more friends to make now, that is our choice. However, I recommend rather than declare all of one people, one thing, like an oath breaker or pardoned criminal, let us allow them to show their merits through what they do, with their actions, and not darken their opportunities by xenophobia.

And then there's people like me. I was adopted, from a man who took a chance on me. I vow to do the same as he has done, to adopt those who hold merit and show their worth. In a discussion I had once, I did get screamed at for being a neo-noble, as I did not have the blood of a noble in my veins. I reflected. Yes, I don't know my parents, but neither do you. They could be someone who has claims to land, or they could be poor souls caught up in the wars. I don't know. There's limited ways in knowing. The point is, by my status, it is assumed my bloodline didn't have the same opportunity as noble bloodlines, which is, an ancestor bred with an elf or dragon, or some such beast. Apparently that makes noble blood, noble. Merit doesn't matter, and will never matter, as nobility is in the blood.

Until we make it matter less. We can change, or we can stay the same.

Written By Orland

April 16, 2021, 3:50 p.m.(4/21/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Apollo

Thoughts of ... an endearing .... friendship....

I finally had the opportunity to sit with Apollo, over a glass of brandy. I have to say this was an exceptional way to spend the evening. We spoke of art and what drives inspiration behind it. We also shared stories of our experiences, that are drawn or formed from the viewing of art. We may be similar in ways, but of course, share slightly different opinions which makes conversations quite interesting. He seemed to know, swiftly, of whom and what I was speaking at most turns of our conversation. It was easy to converse with him and in a way that is rare to admit to, at least for me.

We found a bridge of commonality between us, in the ways we view the world. And while I'm not quick to throw around terms of endearment, I would at once reconsider such a thing when it comes to Apollo. I should think anyone who receives the same back from him, is quite so lucky.

Apollo, I appreciate what you have given me, your time and company are precious. Those who don't acknowledge it, for other than what they can gain, are missing out. And not because you look strikingly familiar to my drifter.

Written By Orland

April 16, 2021, 1:36 p.m.(4/21/1015 AR)

Thoughts of a ... student... of strategy and or... seduction...

When one wants to pursue whatever their goal is, they have options before them to achieve it. I respect the ways people decide upon how they can achieve it, through investigation, research, collaboration, scouting, learning, doing... knowing. When one's goals align with another individual, and that individual is paramount to the goal being achieved, I would think naturally, as the goal seeker you would have to create a sense of trust, loyalty, and cooperation with them. One would also hope, as the pursuer of the goals, one would do their homework first, and get to know that person other than just an object of their goals.

Thereby, I am of lesser mind of those who pursue their goals with a stretch of a well toned leg, a flash of a body part, or promised sexual favours. Yet, I feel, this is the go to method for some in our society at present. I feel empathy and pity for those who cannot think of their own talents, intellect, interest, without exposing their bodies in this fashion. Seduction is a tactic, if one does their homework first. The person one attempts to seduce may not even like, the body part the goal seeker has after all, or they may be loyal to another individual already in a way that makes exposure look silly on the goal seeker.

Seduction, from my perspective, is less about a body, and more about charisma and conversation.

I do feel that men are lumped together like they are mindless animals when body parts are exposed. I've experienced it. I imagine it happens as well for women, but I am not privy to that side of life. I can only see what I see. In any case, for both genders, for someone to conclude another person will be suddenly shocked and awed enough to forgo their normal behaviors and to lose all wit because they are shown a piece of flesh, is ignorant and immature.

Thankfully there have been very few people I have come across in my last year of being in the city, that pursue people this way. Though there are a few that believe that their body is somehow a miracle to the world, and those are the ones whom have never actually lived any where tropical or by the ocean, or even poor! I wonder if have they even visited a bathing pool before? We came out naked. We clean ourselves naked. The body is not something new. Everyone has one.

Written By Orland

April 3, 2021, 2:16 p.m.(3/23/1015 AR)

Thoughts of ... being admired for... physical looks?

At first, I thought the person who invited me for a conversation was joking, when they told me that upon looking at me the first time they saw me, they thought of some ... indecent scenarios of me later and were clearly intending to make it a reality upon our meeting. Of course, I thought they were pulling my leg. It was... humbling I guess? I still feel oddly weird about the entire thing. Does this happen frequently to others?

Oh I know Savio thinks I'm very attractive, but we first grew fond of each other for the company and personalities of one another far before looks became a thing. I know I wasn't immediately attracted to Savio... if I was being truthful.

What was really disorienting was the fact that this physical allure was the first reason they wished to speak with me and not because they knew anything at all about me otherwise. I guess, my suggestion would be, if you wish to merely have sex with someone, being straight forward can work. I've done it. Though you should at least anticipate being rebuffed if you know nothing of them, especially if they are already in a well known relationship. But if you want love, a deeper connection? Maybe find out a little about who you're trying to attract first... it'll save the embarrassment later.

To note, yes I'm in a committed relationship. No, I will not be tempted by whatever physical attribute you own or possess. Some men actually do have standards and a brain that can resist.

Written By Orland

March 26, 2021, 2:20 p.m.(3/7/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Claude

Thoughts of a host to a Charity Benefit... thoughts of someone lucky to be alive because of the Healers!

In just over a months time, I will be holding a great day of celebration to honor the healers of the Physician Guild and the Mercies of Lagoma.

To my delightful surprise, I already have one art piece submitted! It's a beautiful piece of work, crafted by a carpenter I have not had the grace and honor of meeting yet, by the name of Claude. I did some digging into who he was and apparently he's under the Grayson fealty. He came to the Arvum through the consequences of the Wars that befell the Arvum when I was much younger than I am today. He seems to be noted as a quiet man and I do hope, he finds better days ahead.

If you would like to see his work, it'll be in the Crafters Gallery at the Crossroads Casino. Purchasing of this masterpiece will certainly be available during the Day of Healers, which the actual event is called Shake 'Em For the Love of Healing...

Many thanks to Claude, for his early contributions!

Written By Orland

March 26, 2021, 2:10 p.m.(3/7/1015 AR)

Thoughts of ... the future...a student of information...

How interesting misinformation determines the course of someone's choices. Digging for truth is really the only answer to ensure our choices are wisely made. But, the obstacle comes from the sources of that information. When your answers received are the ones that come from what a person perceived to be true, but in fact are laced with falsehoods, how can you really trust what you've been given, to make your choice, without again, finding others to either side with the first, or diminish the answers of the original source. Then there is the gambit of those purposefully answering in a fashion that they think we wish to hear, the right answers, the politically correct answers, those answers that fall in line with the larger narrative granted by the Faith, Crown, or Peerage. And what of those, who willfully deceive and misdirect, to close the gates upon what you need to know, to make your choices, because for whatever reason, those that hold the key to the gate, perhaps, don't wish you to walk through it. On top of that, what if your source just doesn't like you and is vile and vicious in sending you off course?

Isn't information funny. We are supposed to make bold choices, sometimes life altering choices, on what information we have. Yet, getting to that information, one must wade through webs of intent and personal agendas. To combat this, I have no obvious solutions dear reader, than doing your own research.

Written By Orland

March 21, 2021, 5:13 p.m.(2/25/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Raja

Thoughts of... receiving another gift...

Cardin snakeskin is something far too ... rich for my blood. But yet, I find myself wearing these new gloves with a sense of gratitude to Raja Culler for it. What could have turned into an argument or a duel, or something entirely violent, didn't. I had a set of gloves that had belonged to someone she cared for and I returned it at once when I found out.

I had honestly forgotten about it. She didn't, nor did she forget about the promise to replace those gloves.

It's always humbling to be remembered.

Written By Orland

March 21, 2021, 5:09 p.m.(2/25/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Sebastian

Thoughts of ... humbleness... and a student of charity....

Followers of my journals and friends in my circles may know I was taken in by the Order of East Light as a squire. In timing with that and in timing with a focus of life that is heading in a different direction than what I otherwise thought, I'm hosting a days worth of Events Dedicated to the Physician and Mercies of Lagoma.

I joined the Order of East Light to better protect those whom I call friend, family, and fealty. But, I wouldn't have joined them at all if it wasn't for being saved of my own injuries, or having my love's life saved by them as well, or of my friend's life. I came very close to losing people I had opened myself up to. Very close.

For that, I wanted to Honor the people who helped.

So I started reaching out... and Prince Sebastian... donated 500,000 silver to the event, for prizes or direct donation. I wasn't expecting to gain such an affirmation of what I'm doing. Here it is though. A sponsor.

That's a lot of silver. We can do a lot of good with it. And we will.

Now I need to find a Whisper to Help me plan the rest of this, so this party goes well.

But first, my thanks to Prince Sebastian and to House Pravus for their support.

Written By Orland

March 21, 2021, 4:26 p.m.(2/25/1015 AR)

Relationship Note on Savio

Thoughts of ...love...


I love you when you're with me
And I miss you when you're far
Nothing will ever take me from you
There is no night without stars

I worship you completely
And this brilliant thing that's ours
I will be yours always
There is no night without stars

I will always keep you safe
In my devotion and my arms
I will live and die for you
There is no night without stars.
-- Written by Savio Pontelaeus

Here are words that resonate through the distances,
Where I have been has lead me to know what my existence is,
All made greater when one fashions a purpose of love
But further still, when one becomes the other's beloved...

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