Written By Ailith
Dec. 10, 2017, 7:01 a.m.(9/27/1007 AR)
What performances do people prefer to watch when an acting troupe rolls into town? The last performance I invited others to accompany many was most splendid -- their recitation of the Canticles of Gloria and swordplay were a marvel to witness but nothing compared to their dragon. Truly forbidding.
Written By Ailith
Nov. 23, 2017, 8:39 a.m.(8/20/1007 AR)
Holy Services Sermon
Day 20 of Month 8 in 1007 AR
Palace Chapel
Gratitude.
Real gratitude isn't just a feeling you feel when something good happens to you or someone does something nice. Real gratitude is a response or an action that demonstrates just how thankful you really are.
In your life, one time or another, you may have been told to give thanks to the Gods and be grateful for all the many benefits and blessings they bestow. Truthfully, we aren't just asked to feel grateful, we are asked to be grateful. Not just feel it, but show it.
My childhood as many know had its fair share of hardships. This one time, mother had just given birth and couldn't tend to her tasks and father was handling planting season. The lost wages meant we had stone soup for many nights that week. Fed up, I gathered my able-bodied siblings, leaving one behind to watch all the littles, and we headed out to the Baron's stables. We spent the entire day mucking those stables out and were rewarded with coin. We used that small bit of coin to buy some bread.
My, was that honey loaf the most delicious thing I ever had to date in my life. The warmth in our bellies and the smiles on my family's faces was all I could ever want. I was so grateful for these blessings -- my siblings for working, the Baron for giving us a job when he had a stable hand and saw that we were paid, the merchant who looked at our meager offering and gave us the biggest loaf of the bunch, yes, I knew he took pity and accepted less than that bread's worth, and for the baker who created this fantastic loaf of bread. Amusing side note, I only recently discovered who the baker was -- Mistress Symanthe Morgan, mother to Blessed Aleksei.
Part of me showing my gratitude as I only mentioned how I felt grateful, I ask that everyone join me in this small experiment and write a "gratitude letter."
Think of somebody who impacted your life for good, somebody without whom you'd be a different person. Take your time and write them a letter telling them why you are grateful to the Gods for them. It needn't be an epic novel. Even the shortest of letters if the substantial meaning is expressed can make a difference.
Afterwards, see if the person wants to meet face to face. Don't tell them why. When you get there, pull out your letter and read it to them word for word slowly and look them right in the eye. Tell them, "This is why I'm grateful to the Gods for you."
But before you do this, I have a couple of clarifying rules: You can't do this to someone who could benefit you financially. You should have no mixed motives with this. It cannot be someone you are hoping to date who does not want to date you. That just wouldn't be wise. It's best if you can choose to give it to somebody that will be surprised by it.
This is an experience you will never forget, a huge gift that you may cherish as long as you live.
Day 20 of Month 8 in 1007 AR
Palace Chapel
Gratitude.
Real gratitude isn't just a feeling you feel when something good happens to you or someone does something nice. Real gratitude is a response or an action that demonstrates just how thankful you really are.
In your life, one time or another, you may have been told to give thanks to the Gods and be grateful for all the many benefits and blessings they bestow. Truthfully, we aren't just asked to feel grateful, we are asked to be grateful. Not just feel it, but show it.
My childhood as many know had its fair share of hardships. This one time, mother had just given birth and couldn't tend to her tasks and father was handling planting season. The lost wages meant we had stone soup for many nights that week. Fed up, I gathered my able-bodied siblings, leaving one behind to watch all the littles, and we headed out to the Baron's stables. We spent the entire day mucking those stables out and were rewarded with coin. We used that small bit of coin to buy some bread.
My, was that honey loaf the most delicious thing I ever had to date in my life. The warmth in our bellies and the smiles on my family's faces was all I could ever want. I was so grateful for these blessings -- my siblings for working, the Baron for giving us a job when he had a stable hand and saw that we were paid, the merchant who looked at our meager offering and gave us the biggest loaf of the bunch, yes, I knew he took pity and accepted less than that bread's worth, and for the baker who created this fantastic loaf of bread. Amusing side note, I only recently discovered who the baker was -- Mistress Symanthe Morgan, mother to Blessed Aleksei.
Part of me showing my gratitude as I only mentioned how I felt grateful, I ask that everyone join me in this small experiment and write a "gratitude letter."
Think of somebody who impacted your life for good, somebody without whom you'd be a different person. Take your time and write them a letter telling them why you are grateful to the Gods for them. It needn't be an epic novel. Even the shortest of letters if the substantial meaning is expressed can make a difference.
Afterwards, see if the person wants to meet face to face. Don't tell them why. When you get there, pull out your letter and read it to them word for word slowly and look them right in the eye. Tell them, "This is why I'm grateful to the Gods for you."
But before you do this, I have a couple of clarifying rules: You can't do this to someone who could benefit you financially. You should have no mixed motives with this. It cannot be someone you are hoping to date who does not want to date you. That just wouldn't be wise. It's best if you can choose to give it to somebody that will be surprised by it.
This is an experience you will never forget, a huge gift that you may cherish as long as you live.
Written By Ailith
Nov. 12, 2017, 8:03 a.m.(7/25/1007 AR)
Holy Services Sermon
Day 25 of Month 7 in 1007 AR
Palace Chapel
Why pray? What power can prayer -- words hold?
These are not uncommon questions people face especially when direct action is favored over prayer during times of crisis. And why wouldn't it when the results are immediately seen? Why pray some ask when the Gods may not hear, will not speak with me, or are not going to answer? It appears to be a futile effort.
I must have been six or seven. I didn't know much about the world and my parents would drag the whole family to services every week to this small crumbling chapel. That day, everything hurt. Blight had taken our harvest and most of the community was struggling. My brothers and sisters were crying and cranky, pinching and punching each other because they couldn't understand why their empty stomachs twisted and hurt. Mom and Dad were trying to hush them like many of the other families were with their children. And there was the Seraph talking about prayer and how the Gods listen. I wanted to punch him in the face.
I realize that's a bold statement especially coming from me. But it had been days since I last saw even a crumb, dirt wasn't filling my belly anymore, and all the endless whining was getting to me. I wanted to cry and scream like my brothers and sisters. Then this Seraph talks about words of make-believe. We had been praying for weeks and nothing was happening. We still were starving.
Just when I was about to get up and teach that Seraph a lesson with my fists, I saw one of the well-to-do kids near the front of the chapel munching on a blackberry tart. I lost it. I marched right to the aisle and could hear parents, mine included, gasp as the Seraph bright as the summer's sun smile kindly at me and set a hand to my shoulder.
As he guided me back to my family, he took a loaf of bread and broke it into pieces, sharing them with my brothers and sisters, my mother and father, and me. Then he broke another loaf and did the same for another family. He continued to do this while never once pausing his sermon. In between those bites as tears stained my cheeks, I felt relieved and renewed. Much of what he said wasn't listened to. I was a child and that loaf of bread was answer to my immediate prayer for food.
That tiny derelict chapel became a safe haven. When we'd leave services, the community was rejuvenated and strong enabling us to face another week of hardship. Our chapel became a place of solace and our prayers comfort. We could rely on the Faith and Gods being there for us.
Answers may not always be immediate or obviously from the Gods but if we are patient, we can endure.
Day 25 of Month 7 in 1007 AR
Palace Chapel
Why pray? What power can prayer -- words hold?
These are not uncommon questions people face especially when direct action is favored over prayer during times of crisis. And why wouldn't it when the results are immediately seen? Why pray some ask when the Gods may not hear, will not speak with me, or are not going to answer? It appears to be a futile effort.
I must have been six or seven. I didn't know much about the world and my parents would drag the whole family to services every week to this small crumbling chapel. That day, everything hurt. Blight had taken our harvest and most of the community was struggling. My brothers and sisters were crying and cranky, pinching and punching each other because they couldn't understand why their empty stomachs twisted and hurt. Mom and Dad were trying to hush them like many of the other families were with their children. And there was the Seraph talking about prayer and how the Gods listen. I wanted to punch him in the face.
I realize that's a bold statement especially coming from me. But it had been days since I last saw even a crumb, dirt wasn't filling my belly anymore, and all the endless whining was getting to me. I wanted to cry and scream like my brothers and sisters. Then this Seraph talks about words of make-believe. We had been praying for weeks and nothing was happening. We still were starving.
Just when I was about to get up and teach that Seraph a lesson with my fists, I saw one of the well-to-do kids near the front of the chapel munching on a blackberry tart. I lost it. I marched right to the aisle and could hear parents, mine included, gasp as the Seraph bright as the summer's sun smile kindly at me and set a hand to my shoulder.
As he guided me back to my family, he took a loaf of bread and broke it into pieces, sharing them with my brothers and sisters, my mother and father, and me. Then he broke another loaf and did the same for another family. He continued to do this while never once pausing his sermon. In between those bites as tears stained my cheeks, I felt relieved and renewed. Much of what he said wasn't listened to. I was a child and that loaf of bread was answer to my immediate prayer for food.
That tiny derelict chapel became a safe haven. When we'd leave services, the community was rejuvenated and strong enabling us to face another week of hardship. Our chapel became a place of solace and our prayers comfort. We could rely on the Faith and Gods being there for us.
Answers may not always be immediate or obviously from the Gods but if we are patient, we can endure.
Written By Ailith
Oct. 12, 2017, 3:32 p.m.(5/20/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Victus
Without the Lord Commander or His Majesty, the fun on the Red Serpent would not have been possible despite any complications toward the end of that journey.
Written By Ailith
Oct. 7, 2017, 11:07 p.m.(5/11/1007 AR)
Dreary days as these can lend shape to thoughts long weighed on our minds. Each activity may seem more lethargic, hopeless, or even meaningless to darken a path once lit by passions and faith. Times as these, solutions may appear farther out of reach that the goal is without end.
As my ink stains this entry, I watch the clouds hang heavy outside my windows and the day snuffed awhile to night. A chill overtakes me; my peace of mind growing sullen. It is then my eyes drift away, focus brought to the books before me and the chapel outside my door. Warmth restores as I recall the light is but a turn around the bend. Comfort awaits those who seek help and guidance through the kindness of those close by.
Should this day cause you to be weary and you do not wish to be alone -- the Faith, especially the Mercies, wait patiently with a light to brighten your mind, heart, and day. We will listen and be there.
As my ink stains this entry, I watch the clouds hang heavy outside my windows and the day snuffed awhile to night. A chill overtakes me; my peace of mind growing sullen. It is then my eyes drift away, focus brought to the books before me and the chapel outside my door. Warmth restores as I recall the light is but a turn around the bend. Comfort awaits those who seek help and guidance through the kindness of those close by.
Should this day cause you to be weary and you do not wish to be alone -- the Faith, especially the Mercies, wait patiently with a light to brighten your mind, heart, and day. We will listen and be there.
Written By Ailith
Oct. 1, 2017, 10:59 a.m.(4/25/1007 AR)
Dear Sir,
Wherever your journeys lead, may my gratitude reach you along the circuit. Yours can be a thankless duty. And I never forgot yours that day. Thank you.
Wherever your journeys lead, may my gratitude reach you along the circuit. Yours can be a thankless duty. And I never forgot yours that day. Thank you.
Written By Ailith
Sept. 15, 2017, 3:53 p.m.(3/20/1007 AR)
As I consider these colorful journals, I am reminded of a day. The sun had yet to pierce the night sky. I left the safety of the Rectory, journeying to the beach to watch that shadowed unknown horizon. The waves lapped at my ankles while thoughts wandered to the threats of here and now. A chill set to my bones. And then it happened as though answering the prayer held at my throat.
Sunlight split the sky -- a welcome beacon of renewal from the Gods. Awed as I was by this wonder, I bathed in its vibrancy of pinks, reds, purples, and blues. My eyes widened in solemn joy to see ships set off to the seas baring colorful banners of all Houses.
To those of the Isles, see our glorious banners waving high and know the Compact comes. You are not alone in this fight. Witness the holiness of the Gods' gifts and clasp it close as a strengthening light to this darkness.
To our enemies, quiver to see we come. We will hold and push the line. It is not us who should fear but you.
Sometimes a color is just a color. To others, it's a signal we stand united against our enemies.
Sunlight split the sky -- a welcome beacon of renewal from the Gods. Awed as I was by this wonder, I bathed in its vibrancy of pinks, reds, purples, and blues. My eyes widened in solemn joy to see ships set off to the seas baring colorful banners of all Houses.
To those of the Isles, see our glorious banners waving high and know the Compact comes. You are not alone in this fight. Witness the holiness of the Gods' gifts and clasp it close as a strengthening light to this darkness.
To our enemies, quiver to see we come. We will hold and push the line. It is not us who should fear but you.
Sometimes a color is just a color. To others, it's a signal we stand united against our enemies.
Written By Ailith
Sept. 10, 2017, 4:14 p.m.(3/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Aleksei
Topics for next time.
Cliffjumping or Cave Diving. Trees or Posts. Whiskey or Wine.
Cliffjumping or Cave Diving. Trees or Posts. Whiskey or Wine.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 29, 2017, 8:35 a.m.(2/10/1007 AR)
A ceremony so pure in intent has left me in awe and reverence.
Politics played no role when I organized the gathering by the beach. Our Lady, Star of the Sea, our Goddess Mangata, struggled in our defense against the rising black tide which wreaked havoc and sorrow across the waters. We all share the responsibility towards rededication and acknowledge what our Goddess has done. And the people of Arx did not disappoint in embracing our Goddess and coming out to worship. My heart swelled in joy to see her worshippers participate in private or public, and dwell deeper in unity with a relationship with Her.
In the midst of the public prayers, I overhead a Mistress question if she has a right to pray because she did not know Her and assumed our Goddess would reject. Any who seek the light by praying to our Gods, from the most devout to someone who knows nothing about them, shall not be denied. And so I encouraged the Mistress as Mangata, ever loving and forgiving, welcomes any who wish to pray and learn more of Her.
Despite how impolitic the prayer, the point is this -- your prayers are a personal journey between you and the Goddess. No others were denied this opportunity to pray and nor should a Mistress whose intents were pure in her beginning relationship with Mangata.
And the most breathtaking moment occurred.
The Goddess arrived. You could feel her arrival in the unseasonable warm breezes, balmy with hints of salt and lavender. Her breeze swirled around Mistress Petal and played with her hair. A warm embrace in welcoming. And before our Goddess departed, she left us with the warm current of air as respite, to encourage us to continue in paying respects.
And as a servant of the Gods, I shall not cease in doing so. To those who were unable to attend and wish to participate, I encourage you. Open your hearts and speak truthfully to Mangata in your desire of rededication, reconciliation, or to learn more of Her.
~ Ever Faithful, Ever Your Servant.
Politics played no role when I organized the gathering by the beach. Our Lady, Star of the Sea, our Goddess Mangata, struggled in our defense against the rising black tide which wreaked havoc and sorrow across the waters. We all share the responsibility towards rededication and acknowledge what our Goddess has done. And the people of Arx did not disappoint in embracing our Goddess and coming out to worship. My heart swelled in joy to see her worshippers participate in private or public, and dwell deeper in unity with a relationship with Her.
In the midst of the public prayers, I overhead a Mistress question if she has a right to pray because she did not know Her and assumed our Goddess would reject. Any who seek the light by praying to our Gods, from the most devout to someone who knows nothing about them, shall not be denied. And so I encouraged the Mistress as Mangata, ever loving and forgiving, welcomes any who wish to pray and learn more of Her.
Despite how impolitic the prayer, the point is this -- your prayers are a personal journey between you and the Goddess. No others were denied this opportunity to pray and nor should a Mistress whose intents were pure in her beginning relationship with Mangata.
And the most breathtaking moment occurred.
The Goddess arrived. You could feel her arrival in the unseasonable warm breezes, balmy with hints of salt and lavender. Her breeze swirled around Mistress Petal and played with her hair. A warm embrace in welcoming. And before our Goddess departed, she left us with the warm current of air as respite, to encourage us to continue in paying respects.
And as a servant of the Gods, I shall not cease in doing so. To those who were unable to attend and wish to participate, I encourage you. Open your hearts and speak truthfully to Mangata in your desire of rededication, reconciliation, or to learn more of Her.
~ Ever Faithful, Ever Your Servant.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 27, 2017, 6:19 p.m.(2/7/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Sophie
On Flammas, I admitted this and now commit to my journal. Three years ago, I met Princess Sophie when I was most vulnerable. She greeted me with such warmth and offered to guide and help me through my adjustment to Arx. I honestly do not know how I'd have done so without her. So I thank Lagoma for blessing me with her Mother Mercy helping me through this change but also having her friendship. My life has changed for the better through her friendship and mentoring.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 11, 2017, 9:21 a.m.(1/2/1007 AR)
New Year. New Opportunities. New Goals.
It is a bright time of hope and renewal.
The Shrines are alight with activity as followers come forth with wonder and focus on renewal of vows. The Faith will be here to provide guidance and counsel to face new and old paths.
The Gods welcome you. Praise to them.
Happy New Year, Arvum.
It is a bright time of hope and renewal.
The Shrines are alight with activity as followers come forth with wonder and focus on renewal of vows. The Faith will be here to provide guidance and counsel to face new and old paths.
The Gods welcome you. Praise to them.
Happy New Year, Arvum.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 9, 2017, 3:10 p.m.(12/27/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Alarissa
What a godsend. The delivering of goods brightened my day especially all the books and mead. I am intrigued to see what the Princess designs after studying the shared book. After the Night of White, I am certain to be left awe-struck by her talents.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 9, 2017, 12:46 p.m.(12/27/1006 AR)
I can assuage everyone's anxious concerns on this matter. I know it's a terrible burden not knowing.
There are five hundred, twenty-five thousand, four hundred and one tiles in this one corner of the House of Solace. Just /one/.
Do not get me started on how many are in the other corner. It is truly a wonder to distract me from getting up and being a horrible patient.
There are five hundred, twenty-five thousand, four hundred and one tiles in this one corner of the House of Solace. Just /one/.
Do not get me started on how many are in the other corner. It is truly a wonder to distract me from getting up and being a horrible patient.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 7, 2017, 10:26 a.m.(12/22/1006 AR)
Humbled am I to behold the gods. Faces met and actions observed, their virtues are exemplified. We are so enriched in our lives. It is up to ourselves to see the lessons and challenges, then to learn and overcome them to grow anew. When I look on who I have encountered, I cannot but feel prosperous in life and fortunate to know more in this city.
By Lagoma's Grace, I am overcome and touched. Changed.
Thank you.
I shall endeavor to learn and speak my gratitude of what godly virtues they have taught. I welcome any who write these journals to join me in remembering the people in your life.
By Lagoma's Grace, I am overcome and touched. Changed.
Thank you.
I shall endeavor to learn and speak my gratitude of what godly virtues they have taught. I welcome any who write these journals to join me in remembering the people in your life.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 2, 2017, 12:30 p.m.(12/13/1006 AR)
With the changing of seasons, I must find time to rearrange and prepare the Chapel Office. All finally seems to be in order.
The medicines and herbs which have become rancid or old have been removed or reused for alternative purposes; this reminds me to meet with the Sisters of Mercies and Physician's Guild. The last summer's candied fruits are replaced with autumn's blackberries; I may need to visit the shops for any local seasonal fare. A bottle of strongmead thanks to the kindness of a Duke joins the few other bottles when certain comforts are needed in counseling.
Now to find treats to store for when animal companions join with their human friends for a visit.
All in all, I hope it's become more a place of comfort.
The medicines and herbs which have become rancid or old have been removed or reused for alternative purposes; this reminds me to meet with the Sisters of Mercies and Physician's Guild. The last summer's candied fruits are replaced with autumn's blackberries; I may need to visit the shops for any local seasonal fare. A bottle of strongmead thanks to the kindness of a Duke joins the few other bottles when certain comforts are needed in counseling.
Now to find treats to store for when animal companions join with their human friends for a visit.
All in all, I hope it's become more a place of comfort.
Written By Ailith
Aug. 2, 2017, 11:53 a.m.(12/13/1006 AR)
The ringing of the bells marked a new and hopeful beginning for Arvum. The light marvelously was witnessed and felt; I pray there will be lasting peace.
Written By Ailith
July 27, 2017, 9:21 a.m.(11/28/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Leona
I retract all praise about the Lord Commander. She /is/ trying to kill me.
Two days and I'm still discovering places I thought couldn't ache. The short trip down the hall was pure agony. This burn, it's felt. And no amount of mews and snarls won't change the fact that I asked for this punishment.
Maybe after a soak, I'll apologize to her.
/Maybe/.
Two days and I'm still discovering places I thought couldn't ache. The short trip down the hall was pure agony. This burn, it's felt. And no amount of mews and snarls won't change the fact that I asked for this punishment.
Maybe after a soak, I'll apologize to her.
/Maybe/.
Written By Ailith
July 26, 2017, 7:25 a.m.(11/26/1006 AR)
As I walk the halls of the Palace, I am struck by how I am a stranger once more to the Children of the Faith. Their faces are familiar but foreign. It shall be a disservice if I linger at the sidelines and observe. This pursuit to know the people of my parish has led me to here -- the first of many introductions. To know the King's Own.
Ow. A morning that reminds me of every bone and muscle in my body.
It's a gratifying pain and one that'll worsen as time progresses, but worth the experience.
Remind me to thank the Lord Commander later for these lessons. She works tirelessly to prepare the squires and hone the knights' skills.
Ow. A morning that reminds me of every bone and muscle in my body.
It's a gratifying pain and one that'll worsen as time progresses, but worth the experience.
Remind me to thank the Lord Commander later for these lessons. She works tirelessly to prepare the squires and hone the knights' skills.
Written By Ailith
July 22, 2017, 1:06 p.m.(11/19/1006 AR)
It is quite clear that I am in dire need of lessons. If I am to provide counsel to all in the Palace, then I should be better able to address them appropriately and understand their worlds.
And most importantly, listen.
I’ve spent too long lecturing and being heavy handed. It has brought little rewards except for the more hardened believers.
I need to listen and learn.
Oh. And not to throw out puns to distract from my failings.
And most importantly, listen.
I’ve spent too long lecturing and being heavy handed. It has brought little rewards except for the more hardened believers.
I need to listen and learn.
Oh. And not to throw out puns to distract from my failings.
Written By Ailith
July 22, 2017, 12:49 p.m.(11/19/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Orazio
Let it be known to all far and wide to never underestimate Legate Orazio. I admit my defeat by his hands. He is the pun master.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.