Written By Alis
June 7, 2018, 7:49 p.m.(12/7/1008 AR)
You are all, of course, mistaken.
The best weapon is the flail.
The best weapon is the flail.
Written By Alis
June 2, 2018, 6:02 p.m.(11/25/1008 AR)
As people ran the Gauntlet today, there were some who came away injured, and some who breezed through it easily. It's not uncommon to see that spectrum of ability. But it lifts my spirits each time, to see those who struggle, try anyway. It shows their spirit and their mettle, and that they are not afraid to do something that isn't within their current strength. That is something we should all strive to do, to broaden our horizons.
Plus, if the Gauntlet ever appears to be too easy, the sadists who designed it (looking at you, Ansel!) will only make it harder.
Plus, if the Gauntlet ever appears to be too easy, the sadists who designed it (looking at you, Ansel!) will only make it harder.
Written By Alis
May 22, 2018, 2:07 p.m.(10/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Belladonna
Your grief is your own. You don't owe anybody an explanation about your silence, in the whites or otherwise.
May the Gods offer you peace and comfort in these trying times.
May the Gods offer you peace and comfort in these trying times.
Written By Alis
May 21, 2018, 3:58 p.m.(10/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Reigna
The bacon wrapped pickles are even better when they've been deep fried!!
Written By Alis
May 8, 2018, 12:27 p.m.(9/15/1008 AR)
Not everyone finds the same things humorous. I don't believe that to be news to anyone. And while I strive to be charitable, to honor Gild, some things are simply not funny to me. Perhaps it should be incumbent on both those whose funny bones are not tickled, as well as those who think they are hilarious, to stop and think before rubbing salt into wounds.
Written By Alis
May 7, 2018, 3:38 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Simone
I would be more than happy to assist in keeping Princess Marian from overdoing! I believe I am now heavy enough to sit on her and scowl without fear of being beaten to a pulp for the attempt.
Written By Alis
May 7, 2018, 3:35 p.m.(9/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Katarina
I have it on good authority that Ellara is quite upset that she isn't the cause of enough grey hair. She vows to correct this overnight, because she is already ambitious even at such a young age.
Written By Alis
May 3, 2018, 10:52 a.m.(9/3/1008 AR)
It is a difficult thing, the loss of a friend or family member. And I thought to confine my thoughts to the Blacks this time, as they are so muddled and conflicted this time around. But there is no shame in the struggle of finding one's footing after a tragedy, and perhaps it is good for people to see we run the same depth and gamut of emotion no matter what else may be the same or different about our lives.
One more member of the family fallen. I think for a day or two I was simply numb to it. Beginning at Sanctum, out in the field of battle, and now in Arx itself I have heard of or watched parents, siblings by blood and siblings by marriage, aunts, uncles, cousins, servants, guards, soldiers, knights and commanders and innocents die. Sometimes in ignorance, as I slept safely buffered by members of the King's Own. And, sometimes because of my own commands. There is sorrow, anger, denial, despair, and guilt most times. But this, for a moment, there was just nothing. I could feel absolutely nothing.
And that scared me. Jacque was family, and I cared for him as I do any other relation. There is little I won't do for my family, intensely loyal and fiercely protective of them as I tend to be. But finally, as we make the first steps towards investigating how this was able to happen, and there is a moment to breathe, I have been able to let tears fall.
I did leave one thing out of my recitation of emotions though. And that is resolve. After all is said and done, there is resolve to keep moving ahead. To justice for the fallen, and to live, in order to keep the memories of our loved ones alive for awhile longer.
One more member of the family fallen. I think for a day or two I was simply numb to it. Beginning at Sanctum, out in the field of battle, and now in Arx itself I have heard of or watched parents, siblings by blood and siblings by marriage, aunts, uncles, cousins, servants, guards, soldiers, knights and commanders and innocents die. Sometimes in ignorance, as I slept safely buffered by members of the King's Own. And, sometimes because of my own commands. There is sorrow, anger, denial, despair, and guilt most times. But this, for a moment, there was just nothing. I could feel absolutely nothing.
And that scared me. Jacque was family, and I cared for him as I do any other relation. There is little I won't do for my family, intensely loyal and fiercely protective of them as I tend to be. But finally, as we make the first steps towards investigating how this was able to happen, and there is a moment to breathe, I have been able to let tears fall.
I did leave one thing out of my recitation of emotions though. And that is resolve. After all is said and done, there is resolve to keep moving ahead. To justice for the fallen, and to live, in order to keep the memories of our loved ones alive for awhile longer.
Written By Alis
April 21, 2018, 7:39 p.m.(8/6/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Reese
This is several days overdue, and for that I apologize. (It has been quite busy!). But I wanted to take a moment and commend Princess Reese on her generosity of spirit and how she went out of her way to organize not just a ceremony to celebrate the heroes among Grayson during the recent battles. But, to make sure those from other fealties were given personalized gifts as well.
Thank you, Your Highness.
And thank you to your lovely assistants as well for helping in the distribution of them so that you could recount the stories of valor at the same time. Archlector Wylla of Jayus, and Goodwoman Violet Marjawn.
Thank you, Your Highness.
And thank you to your lovely assistants as well for helping in the distribution of them so that you could recount the stories of valor at the same time. Archlector Wylla of Jayus, and Goodwoman Violet Marjawn.
Written By Alis
April 16, 2018, 12:31 p.m.(7/23/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Saoirse
If you have proof of such treachery I would be pleased to hear it.
Otherwise, retract your claim. Publicly, and with an apology to House Valardin.
Otherwise, retract your claim. Publicly, and with an apology to House Valardin.
Written By Alis
April 12, 2018, 5:17 p.m.(7/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Veronica
You definitely need to meet my daughter. Dame Alexis has already made her first little set of armor! And she is giving my weapons a far too curious eye.
She's not even 2 yet.
She's not even 2 yet.
Written By Alis
April 11, 2018, 9:40 a.m.(7/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Veronica
I am humbled by your regard, Lady Veronica. On one hand I feel compelled to point out that I am quite decent with a sword or flail. On the other hand, it is usually I who am overly protective of people so this is quite novel! I think we shall get along quite well.
... as long as you don't mind my propensity to find myself in dangerous situations.
... as long as you don't mind my propensity to find myself in dangerous situations.
Written By Alis
April 7, 2018, 7:40 p.m.(7/6/1008 AR)
Though our bonfire was open to the public, we did not announce the awards ceremony beforehand. And I wish to ensure that those who deserve recognition are publicly given their due.
Our highest military honor, The Order of the White Dragon was awarded to the following people:
Lady Eirlys Greenmarch
Lord Vano Rivenshari
Duke Cristoph Laurent
The Sword of Sugan, an additional military honor was awarded to:
Count Kael Keaton
Sir Thorley Sandreef
Sir Norwood Clement
Princess Caelis Valardin
Princess Katarina Valardin
Marquessa Demura Lyonesse
Marquis Consort Jacque Lyonesse
Lord Alban Farshaw
Prince Jericho Valardin
Lord Corban Telmar
Duke Arn Telmar
Sir Holden Morgan
The Shield of Valor, our medal of civilian honor was awarded to:
Countess Reigna Keaton
Lady Ianna Greenmarch
It is both an honor and a privilege to serve alongside so many brave, skilled, and chivalrous fighters. And without our civilian counterparts, we would have no chance of victory. Thank you to everyone who came to the bonfire, and took the time to honor those who fought whether they returned home or not.
Our highest military honor, The Order of the White Dragon was awarded to the following people:
Lady Eirlys Greenmarch
Lord Vano Rivenshari
Duke Cristoph Laurent
The Sword of Sugan, an additional military honor was awarded to:
Count Kael Keaton
Sir Thorley Sandreef
Sir Norwood Clement
Princess Caelis Valardin
Princess Katarina Valardin
Marquessa Demura Lyonesse
Marquis Consort Jacque Lyonesse
Lord Alban Farshaw
Prince Jericho Valardin
Lord Corban Telmar
Duke Arn Telmar
Sir Holden Morgan
The Shield of Valor, our medal of civilian honor was awarded to:
Countess Reigna Keaton
Lady Ianna Greenmarch
It is both an honor and a privilege to serve alongside so many brave, skilled, and chivalrous fighters. And without our civilian counterparts, we would have no chance of victory. Thank you to everyone who came to the bonfire, and took the time to honor those who fought whether they returned home or not.
Written By Alis
March 30, 2018, 5:57 a.m.(6/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Ann
I feel compelled to cover my eyes now. Should I cover my eyes?
Yes, yes I should.
Yes, yes I should.
Written By Alis
March 28, 2018, 2:20 p.m.(6/11/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Sorry, I am not offering you up on the sibling exchange. You're stuck with me!
Written By Alis
March 21, 2018, 10:14 p.m.(5/26/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Esoka
Thank you.
I don't have many words yet. But, knowing how you honor Eirlys' memory helps ease the sorrow of her being gone.
I don't have many words yet. But, knowing how you honor Eirlys' memory helps ease the sorrow of her being gone.
Written By Alis
March 21, 2018, 11:17 a.m.(5/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
Prince Edain,
I write this all down from the ship as we sail back to the mainland, because I am not sure I will want to remember it all and repeat it word for word once I can stand in front of you to deliver the final tallies of our dead to memorialize.
First, I must tell you that every one of our soldiers fought well and bravely, with honor as befits an Oathlander. They did not flinch, they did not break, they did not fail. Even, no... especially the fallen, who died so that an innocent would never have to face the horror that was there. I have already begun the writing of their stories for us, so we can tell their families of their heroism. We have lost at least half of the cavalry that came to Setarco at the last minute from Southport. But they were sorely needed. There are many who should be given additional recognition. It was truly an honor to watch people from all three of the fealties represented fight together as one unit, helping one another, even in sorrow as Princess Serafine Velenosa fell to an enemy creature.
There are not enough thanks to go around, in describing how the Archduchess, the Archduke Consort, Prince Galen and I were able to work together to make sound tactical choices and see them carried out. I hope we have shown our strength in setting aside differences when it is time to face an enemy of the Compact.
I am not certain if you have heard of the creatures that met us on the battlefield. Giant dogs that were able to tear through even the hardiest of armor, and... strange amalgamations of things. A horse with tentacles (I believe Sir Thorley has coined it a Nopetopus), and a snake thing with spider mandibles and a halibut tail? I cannot decide between a Nopester and a Sniderbut to call it. I am sure we were all hallucinating. Perhaps from the fear and disgust and gnawing ... horror that overtook to many as the enemy came ashore. The mind does strange things.
At one point, the wind was so strong it felt as if we were all pinned to the wall like flies trapped in a web. But, fortunately, it subsided as the enemy retreated. Setarco stands. And thank the Gods for it.
Princess Alis Valardin
I write this all down from the ship as we sail back to the mainland, because I am not sure I will want to remember it all and repeat it word for word once I can stand in front of you to deliver the final tallies of our dead to memorialize.
First, I must tell you that every one of our soldiers fought well and bravely, with honor as befits an Oathlander. They did not flinch, they did not break, they did not fail. Even, no... especially the fallen, who died so that an innocent would never have to face the horror that was there. I have already begun the writing of their stories for us, so we can tell their families of their heroism. We have lost at least half of the cavalry that came to Setarco at the last minute from Southport. But they were sorely needed. There are many who should be given additional recognition. It was truly an honor to watch people from all three of the fealties represented fight together as one unit, helping one another, even in sorrow as Princess Serafine Velenosa fell to an enemy creature.
There are not enough thanks to go around, in describing how the Archduchess, the Archduke Consort, Prince Galen and I were able to work together to make sound tactical choices and see them carried out. I hope we have shown our strength in setting aside differences when it is time to face an enemy of the Compact.
I am not certain if you have heard of the creatures that met us on the battlefield. Giant dogs that were able to tear through even the hardiest of armor, and... strange amalgamations of things. A horse with tentacles (I believe Sir Thorley has coined it a Nopetopus), and a snake thing with spider mandibles and a halibut tail? I cannot decide between a Nopester and a Sniderbut to call it. I am sure we were all hallucinating. Perhaps from the fear and disgust and gnawing ... horror that overtook to many as the enemy came ashore. The mind does strange things.
At one point, the wind was so strong it felt as if we were all pinned to the wall like flies trapped in a web. But, fortunately, it subsided as the enemy retreated. Setarco stands. And thank the Gods for it.
Princess Alis Valardin
Written By Alis
March 17, 2018, 4:16 p.m.(5/17/1008 AR)
It may be small comfort, but Fiachra and I have decided on what we feel the very best way to honor Lady Eirlys Greenmarch.
If the child I carry is a girl, she will be named Eirlys so that there is a Princess Eirlys Valardin, as was meant to be. And if the child I carry is a boy, he will be named Eirlon in her honor.
It has already been a comfort to us both to hear word of the her recognition as a hero and warrior.
And to the rest of our family: You better keep yourselves safe.
If the child I carry is a girl, she will be named Eirlys so that there is a Princess Eirlys Valardin, as was meant to be. And if the child I carry is a boy, he will be named Eirlon in her honor.
It has already been a comfort to us both to hear word of the her recognition as a hero and warrior.
And to the rest of our family: You better keep yourselves safe.
Written By Alis
March 17, 2018, 10:25 a.m.(5/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Eirlys
Sister.
I don't really have words yet. News reached us and... I just don't. I can't, yet. Know that your niece, and all of the sibling that come after her will know of your bravery. We will not forget, and your memory will live on through them.
I don't really have words yet. News reached us and... I just don't. I can't, yet. Know that your niece, and all of the sibling that come after her will know of your bravery. We will not forget, and your memory will live on through them.
Written By Alis
March 14, 2018, 4:43 p.m.(5/11/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
It was none other than Princess Donella who showed us how to make hard tack. Credit where it is due!
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