Written By Esoka
July 1, 2018, 5:53 p.m.(2/12/1009 AR)
My heart is full.
The work Marquessa Samantha Deepwood has done to encourage the shav'arvani of the Gray Forest to turn against the Slaver is a campaign of such good, I have no words for it. Those who bent the knee did it because they saw the Compact as a potential ally, a way through which they could be stronger and add their strength to it in turn. Their lives were saved, it and it was done without threat of violence, save against the Abyss, which is a threat to us all.
Wherever my path takes me in the days to come, I shall work gladly and happily to integrate these new citizens into Deepwood and Riven and all the rest. The life of a prodigal is not always an easy one, but it is a choice I do not regret when I consider the alternatives, and one I'm wholly proud of when I see the folk I've served.
All honors to the Marquessa, my own Countess and Count, and all the rest who made this possible. We shall be stronger against what comes, and many lives and souls are saved.
The work Marquessa Samantha Deepwood has done to encourage the shav'arvani of the Gray Forest to turn against the Slaver is a campaign of such good, I have no words for it. Those who bent the knee did it because they saw the Compact as a potential ally, a way through which they could be stronger and add their strength to it in turn. Their lives were saved, it and it was done without threat of violence, save against the Abyss, which is a threat to us all.
Wherever my path takes me in the days to come, I shall work gladly and happily to integrate these new citizens into Deepwood and Riven and all the rest. The life of a prodigal is not always an easy one, but it is a choice I do not regret when I consider the alternatives, and one I'm wholly proud of when I see the folk I've served.
All honors to the Marquessa, my own Countess and Count, and all the rest who made this possible. We shall be stronger against what comes, and many lives and souls are saved.
Written By Esoka
July 1, 2018, 4:24 p.m.(2/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Coraline
All honors to Princess Coraline Thrax on her knighting. Her road to the life of a warrior was very different than mine, and in many ways more fraught. No one ever told me I should not lift a blade or protect my people, and that the battlefield was not my place. I cannot imagine that life or what I would've become in it. But she persevered anyhow and has gained skill and an understanding of chivalry that any could be proud of. I've no doubt she'll be a credit to her oaths, her people, and the Compact in her service, and I look forward to fighting by her side should we be called for it.
Written By Esoka
June 22, 2018, 11:41 a.m.(1/22/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aurelian
I did not know Prince Aurelian Valardin, either as the boy who was lost to his family or as the man who wore that name for decades after that boy’s tragic death. I also did not know well those murdered by his actions, or hurt by the other black acts done by him. My part in discovering the truth of what he was seemed a small thing at the time, but was a piece added to a larger puzzle by many others. Even if the picture was grim in the end, at least he can hurt no one else. I pray for those who were harmed by him, and the souls of those who’ve gone to the Queen of Endings because of him. As for him who called himself Aurelian Valardin, I pray to the Sentinel that justice has been done.
Written By Esoka
June 17, 2018, 2:33 a.m.(1/11/1009 AR)
As a Disciple of Gloria who counts many close to the spirits among her friends, I would welcome any who'd like help and consultation on how to reconcile the Dominus' decree with their own faith. My own commitment has ever been to the Pantheon and its gods, but I understand the path of belief for many is not so straight, their hearts not so clearly called to such. There has, I'd venture to say, not been enough attention paid to these questions in recent days. Perhaps this proclamation means that will change, if nothing else, and greater clarity and strength in our beliefs can only be for the good, even if the journey is a difficult one.
Written By Esoka
June 16, 2018, 1:41 p.m.(1/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Ainsley
I would echo Prince Ainsley's sentiment and add to it. Being touched by Gloria does not make one more worthy, or more chivalrous, or a better knight. It DOES mean one should try harder to live up to Her ideals, and be mindful of being over-proud. But I believe Gloria's blessings may come to all warriors in times of great need, where they are defending the innocent.
I honor Prince Ainsley for the deeds he does in this world as a warrior, but the rest he must work for, as do we all.
I honor Prince Ainsley for the deeds he does in this world as a warrior, but the rest he must work for, as do we all.
Written By Esoka
June 14, 2018, 3:46 p.m.(12/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
I love your name! Especially the over-complicated parts that sound like someone's coughing. Those are the BEST.
I'd never have married a Cauldron.
I'd never have married a Cauldron.
Written By Esoka
June 14, 2018, 3:04 p.m.(12/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
Why are all these people forcing dead-person things on you? What are you making them do? And don’t let anyone foist saving the world on you without consulting me. I figure we could manage it but it’d have to be a joint adventure.
Also, don’t blame the poor people for the spellings of your name. It has many vowels in places where they seem of questionable necessity. Remind me to tell you sometime how it’d be pronounced in the tongue of the Crownlands shav’arvani. You’d have to roll one or two syllables in ways that would make the weak break into a coughing fit. It is not a name for the timid.
Another also. Congratulations on your promotion, it is correct and deserved.
Also, don’t blame the poor people for the spellings of your name. It has many vowels in places where they seem of questionable necessity. Remind me to tell you sometime how it’d be pronounced in the tongue of the Crownlands shav’arvani. You’d have to roll one or two syllables in ways that would make the weak break into a coughing fit. It is not a name for the timid.
Another also. Congratulations on your promotion, it is correct and deserved.
Written By Esoka
June 11, 2018, 11:59 p.m.(12/20/1008 AR)
The Deepwood Harvest Festival was the first party I went to in Arx when I came to this city almost three years ago. I was unsure about being around so many strangers, so many highborn at that, after so long among just my tribe and fellow Riven-sworn in the Twainfort. Marquessa Samantha was warm and gracious and had many games that involved hitting and throwing things, though, which I always enjoy. I had fun and it helped me find my feet in this place more than I think I appreciated back then.
This is the third Harvest Festival I’ve been to. I was victorious at apple-bobbing! And my Count Thesarin was victorious at throwing axes, so Riven was well represented. I had many friends at the party this time and felt not out-of-place at all, even if this city remains odd to me in many ways. The Marquessa remains lovely, as does her good consort, even if Lord Rymarr’s pie was very fearsome and daunting. It was a good night. I look forward to next year and many more to come.
This is the third Harvest Festival I’ve been to. I was victorious at apple-bobbing! And my Count Thesarin was victorious at throwing axes, so Riven was well represented. I had many friends at the party this time and felt not out-of-place at all, even if this city remains odd to me in many ways. The Marquessa remains lovely, as does her good consort, even if Lord Rymarr’s pie was very fearsome and daunting. It was a good night. I look forward to next year and many more to come.
Written By Esoka
June 9, 2018, 11:18 a.m.(12/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
Of course Sika watches you. She missed you! And we can get a puppy, she wouldn't eat puppies.
I mean, I'd keep her away from the puppy until it was big enough to eat small creatures itself. They could learn how to hunt together and keep the Lowers safe from vermin.
Happy birthday, love. I hope your year was a happy one, and we'll make the next better yet.
I mean, I'd keep her away from the puppy until it was big enough to eat small creatures itself. They could learn how to hunt together and keep the Lowers safe from vermin.
Happy birthday, love. I hope your year was a happy one, and we'll make the next better yet.
Written By Esoka
June 7, 2018, 4:29 p.m.(12/7/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Harper
While I'm at the Archives I should make an entry about non-sword things.
After my last entry, the scholar is looking at me like he's frightened, which I want to make sure is recorded. Don't cringe, man, it's silly. A little yelling never hurt anyone, and often adds necessary emphasis. Vellichor's work isn't for the timid.
Anyway this is not about yelling about how wonderful swords are. This is about my new sort-of niece, Harper Ashdown.
I've been thinking about family of late, and how the way we define it changes as we go through life. My kin and tribe of Greenwoods will always be my family. They’re in my blood and skin and their past echoes in my soul. But there’s also the family we find and choose. Harper Ashdown and my husband chose each other as family, so she’s mine now, too. I've decided she’s my niece. I’ve got a niece already, but she’s my first found one. I like her very much already. She’s brave and true and has excellent taste in pastries, so I think I’ll keep her.
After my last entry, the scholar is looking at me like he's frightened, which I want to make sure is recorded. Don't cringe, man, it's silly. A little yelling never hurt anyone, and often adds necessary emphasis. Vellichor's work isn't for the timid.
Anyway this is not about yelling about how wonderful swords are. This is about my new sort-of niece, Harper Ashdown.
I've been thinking about family of late, and how the way we define it changes as we go through life. My kin and tribe of Greenwoods will always be my family. They’re in my blood and skin and their past echoes in my soul. But there’s also the family we find and choose. Harper Ashdown and my husband chose each other as family, so she’s mine now, too. I've decided she’s my niece. I’ve got a niece already, but she’s my first found one. I like her very much already. She’s brave and true and has excellent taste in pastries, so I think I’ll keep her.
Written By Esoka
June 7, 2018, 3:45 p.m.(12/7/1008 AR)
For the historical record. In case there was ever any doubt.
SWORDS ARE THE BEST.
SWORDS ARE THE BEST.
Written By Esoka
June 3, 2018, 4:50 p.m.(11/27/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
My husband is home, still possesses all his limbs, and has many great stories he owes me. I'm happy.
He wasn't QUITE in good condition when he was returned to me. Apparently when you're aboard a ship, you don't bathe, and it was a very long voyage. I think I've made him get in a state that's fit company again, though, and all is well.
He wasn't QUITE in good condition when he was returned to me. Apparently when you're aboard a ship, you don't bathe, and it was a very long voyage. I think I've made him get in a state that's fit company again, though, and all is well.
Written By Esoka
June 2, 2018, 5:04 p.m.(11/25/1008 AR)
My thoughts are heavy, restless things.
While I can't speak to all the wills in the whites recently, Calaudrin Estardes, he who is my husband, updated his because he sailed out with many others on the grand ship Carlotta, to parts unknown and strange. I wish I could've gone with him, but duty holds me to this city right now. I pray that Gloria grants courage to him and his companions, so that they may protect each other and come home soon. He goes with a knighthood, a title I’ve always carried mixed feelings on the politics of (including about my own), but he's as honorable and deserving a man as can wear it. Maybe it will strengthen his heart on this journey.
My House faces many dangers of which I must be watchful as Sword and knight. Riven has ever been both my blood and heart, for it is what remains of the Greenwoods. I'll love it always, but I confess the heaviness now, as other parts of my life begin to change and shift. We shall see what is to come. I’ll stay the course for now and serve as I must, and pray to Gloria and Limerance for guidance on what the road ahead may look like.
It is in the Templars I find pure solace and joy more and more of late, I'll confess. Sir Preston has honored me with the title of Champion of Gloria, and appointed me a disciple leader. It is also an important duty, but in a way that lifts my heart and makes me feel stronger and more fully myself. I hope I can uphold it in a way that furthers the Sword of the Faith in this time of rebuilding. The work makes me think on many things in my life, on roads not taken. They are not regrets, for I’d have no life but my own, but reminders that I am not rooted to the ground like a tree. My blood is of the rivers, flowing along a course to different places. But Gloria has always been a compass in it, a guide when I am lost, and She remains so to me now. I’ll see to finding new ways to give that compass to others, so well as I can.
While I can't speak to all the wills in the whites recently, Calaudrin Estardes, he who is my husband, updated his because he sailed out with many others on the grand ship Carlotta, to parts unknown and strange. I wish I could've gone with him, but duty holds me to this city right now. I pray that Gloria grants courage to him and his companions, so that they may protect each other and come home soon. He goes with a knighthood, a title I’ve always carried mixed feelings on the politics of (including about my own), but he's as honorable and deserving a man as can wear it. Maybe it will strengthen his heart on this journey.
My House faces many dangers of which I must be watchful as Sword and knight. Riven has ever been both my blood and heart, for it is what remains of the Greenwoods. I'll love it always, but I confess the heaviness now, as other parts of my life begin to change and shift. We shall see what is to come. I’ll stay the course for now and serve as I must, and pray to Gloria and Limerance for guidance on what the road ahead may look like.
It is in the Templars I find pure solace and joy more and more of late, I'll confess. Sir Preston has honored me with the title of Champion of Gloria, and appointed me a disciple leader. It is also an important duty, but in a way that lifts my heart and makes me feel stronger and more fully myself. I hope I can uphold it in a way that furthers the Sword of the Faith in this time of rebuilding. The work makes me think on many things in my life, on roads not taken. They are not regrets, for I’d have no life but my own, but reminders that I am not rooted to the ground like a tree. My blood is of the rivers, flowing along a course to different places. But Gloria has always been a compass in it, a guide when I am lost, and She remains so to me now. I’ll see to finding new ways to give that compass to others, so well as I can.
Written By Esoka
May 9, 2018, 12:32 a.m.(9/16/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Calaudrin
I don't really know that much about being married, even though I am now. I haven't been for very long, and I'm a commoner besides, so no treaties or alliances are in the balance over it. I will say, though, that marriage wasn't something I entered into lightly. I was lovers with this man for near two years and I expect, if being in love was all we'd wanted, we'd have kept on like that. We wanted vows before the gods, though, and to honor our commitments to each other in a way that'd make Limerance proud. We wanted to be eachother's family, eachother's tribe, through the good times and the terrible ones. And I'll say, I wed with no intention of ever breaking that oath, even if it is a simpler matter for a commoner. If Calaudrin Estardes and also Greenblood ever tires of me, that'll just be too bad, because we've decided to stick with each other. Even on the hard days, I'd have it no other way.
One thing I'll say about marriage. I thought I knew this man as well as I could know anyone. And I loved him, which isn't a luxury some get when they join another. But every time I think I've figured him out entirely, he does something to surprise me. Like, when he's out on an expedition that comes upon an orphanned girl, scavenging for food. And he takes her in and sees to it that she has a good meal and a place to sleep. I pray we can find what might remain of her tribe and kin, but she's safe and warm now because of this man. And I love him even more than I did yesterday, in a way I never expected. So I'll keep this marriage thing and thank Limerance for all the large and small blessings it brings to my life.
One thing I'll say about marriage. I thought I knew this man as well as I could know anyone. And I loved him, which isn't a luxury some get when they join another. But every time I think I've figured him out entirely, he does something to surprise me. Like, when he's out on an expedition that comes upon an orphanned girl, scavenging for food. And he takes her in and sees to it that she has a good meal and a place to sleep. I pray we can find what might remain of her tribe and kin, but she's safe and warm now because of this man. And I love him even more than I did yesterday, in a way I never expected. So I'll keep this marriage thing and thank Limerance for all the large and small blessings it brings to my life.
Written By Esoka
May 6, 2018, 9:49 p.m.(9/11/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Lumen
The Softest Whisper is a woman of courage, fortitude, and grace under the strangest circumstances. And, she has a beautiful voice. I'll not hold her love of bunnies against her. I shall just never be able to trust the creatures. With their strange, staring eyes.
Written By Esoka
May 6, 2018, 2:36 p.m.(9/11/1008 AR)
The Deepwood pub crawl was very fun! The parts of it I remember clearly, at least. There are some parts I cannot, quite, which usually means it was VERY fun. I arm-wrestled Marquis-Consort Rymarr, and I must say it's the most challenging bout of that I've had in ages. I thought I had it, but Lord Rymarr managed to best me in the end. Plainly this means we'll need to have another pub crawl soon, so we can have a rematch. My thanks to Lord Grady for putting it all on. It was an evening of merriment for the Deepwoods and friends, which was sorely needed.
There was definitely singing involved at one point. Can't recall if I took part in that or not. Much of my time lately has involved singing in strange situations. I'm not sure what this means. Perhaps I should spend more time praying to Jayus. I feel someone's trying to tell me something.
There was definitely singing involved at one point. Can't recall if I took part in that or not. Much of my time lately has involved singing in strange situations. I'm not sure what this means. Perhaps I should spend more time praying to Jayus. I feel someone's trying to tell me something.
Written By Esoka
April 27, 2018, 12:18 a.m.(8/17/1008 AR)
I went to the Harlequin's Picnic put on by Archlector Aureth and Harlequin Dafne. It was fun! There was free food and drink, and I played a game with Aleksei and Rinel which involved stabbing legs on a play spider while blindfolded. I don't think our spider won, but it was the beer spider so its drunken apperance was an artistic choice.
Maybe you had to be there to understand it. It was grand, anyhow.
I've been thinking a lot about my past life lately. Who my soul might've belonged to, what's left of whatever that was now, what it means for how I'm supposed to be living. The message I keep getting, from those who seem to know better than I, is to DO. To be and live, not to get stuck on what was.
I think the picnic celebrated that very well. In its blind drunken spider way. It was merry and lively and filled with good company, which is what we can hope for in life on our best days.
Maybe you had to be there to understand it. It was grand, anyhow.
I've been thinking a lot about my past life lately. Who my soul might've belonged to, what's left of whatever that was now, what it means for how I'm supposed to be living. The message I keep getting, from those who seem to know better than I, is to DO. To be and live, not to get stuck on what was.
I think the picnic celebrated that very well. In its blind drunken spider way. It was merry and lively and filled with good company, which is what we can hope for in life on our best days.
Written By Esoka
April 22, 2018, 10:30 p.m.(8/8/1008 AR)
I got a very pretty pair of earrings from Princess Reese and the Graysons, in recognition for my service in the Stormwall campaign. I like them a great deal! More than that, though, it was good to see the deeds and service of those who'd marched and fought honored. The scars of Stormwall and Setarco will be with us for a long time, and we shall always grieve those we lost. But we'll remember, too, and ceremonies like this help with that.
Written By Esoka
April 21, 2018, 4:56 p.m.(8/6/1008 AR)
The Riven Brandy at Smoke and Spirits is very good and everyone in the city should try it!
I say this mostly because, now that I'm married to the store owner, I'm pretty sure the store is half mine now. I don't know much about running a store. That's Calaudrin's job. But I know it's better for the both of us if people buy lots of things.
In less sales-related writing, it was a fine thing to see so many enjoying the liquor from the Twainfort. Summer is when the pears are sweetest, and so is a grand season for brandy and cider and all the other spirits that come from the riverlands. I still miss the place at times, and hope my new family comes to know it soon, but at least I can drink a small part of it.
I say this mostly because, now that I'm married to the store owner, I'm pretty sure the store is half mine now. I don't know much about running a store. That's Calaudrin's job. But I know it's better for the both of us if people buy lots of things.
In less sales-related writing, it was a fine thing to see so many enjoying the liquor from the Twainfort. Summer is when the pears are sweetest, and so is a grand season for brandy and cider and all the other spirits that come from the riverlands. I still miss the place at times, and hope my new family comes to know it soon, but at least I can drink a small part of it.
Written By Esoka
April 8, 2018, 11:10 p.m.(7/8/1008 AR)
The Graysons took the trophy at the Compact Crew Race for the second year in a row. I was honored to take part alongside my teammates from last year. Lord Malesh commanded us well, and Prince Barric and my War Chief Thesarin joined me in the rowing. We had bracing competition from House Thrax and particularly the team representing the Godsworn. I hope my athleticism and sportsmanship did good honors to Gloria, even if I wasn't rowing for the Faith itself.
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