Written By Fatima
Sept. 3, 2017, 5:05 a.m.(2/20/1007 AR)
News of the Darkwater Deeps spreading has caused no small amount of alarm for us Thraxians. It's headed straight for the isles and sooner than later this scourge will be upon us. Renewed efforts are being made to ensure that all the isles will be able to weather this storm. Sometimes it takes a crisis to really put things into perspective. My thoughts drift from the isles and to distant Eurus, most especially after recent conversations. I realized in the moment I was speaking with Lord Wash that I care deeply for the suffering of others, and it's been all too easy to ignore it.
To think of the suffering that my people go through at the hands of their tyrannical slavemasters. Worse things happen on a daily occurence, but my mind's eye focuses on the men, women, and children who are born, live and die in chains. That is no life, no life at all and of course I wanted to liberate my people from this fate for no one should have to go through life as chattel to another human being. It contradicts everything I've been raised to believe in, but when I look around my home. I don't see thralls. I don't see men and women who have earned the circumstances they find themselves in. I don't see criminals who labor an honest day's work for penance. I see people in chains, I see slaves. No matter how happy or content they may seem.
Not too long ago I believed that Thralldom was something that should be reformed, and that with the right changes we might even find it to be an acceptable penal system. I lied to myself and ignored the voice in my head telling me that it was wrong. I believed that if I was a traditionalist that I would earn the respect of my fellow Thraxians and honor my ancestors with my deeds. Yet again I was wrong. In my heart of hearts, I don't believe that my father would be proud of me. If the stories of his exploits are true, if Zaina has portrayed the man as accurately as she has, then I think he would be ashamed of me. As a Voice of House Thrax, my will is no longer my own. I live to serve my Liege and I will follow him to the depths of the sea if he told me to. Not just because he inspires me, and I honor my oaths but because he's my blood. Somewhere along the way I lost respect for myself, and I lied to myself about that too.
I can't live like this any longer, I can't continue to be someone I am not. If I want to be the breaker of chains, then it begins here in Arvum. I am making it my life's goal to see that every thrall who would pick up blade, spear, bow, ropes, hammer, needle, or compass stands beside the brave men and women of Thrax who fight for our survival. Let this white serve as a reminder that I will not rest until Thralldom has been abolished and it's practices stricken from the Isles. Every last man, woman, and child deserves to live a free life and die by the choices they have been empowered to make. Then, and only then will I set my sights on Petrioch, only then can I truly be the woman I was meant to be. May the Gods forgive me, may my mother and father forgive me. May those whom I have let down forgive me, and may they forgive me for the difficult times ahead.
To think of the suffering that my people go through at the hands of their tyrannical slavemasters. Worse things happen on a daily occurence, but my mind's eye focuses on the men, women, and children who are born, live and die in chains. That is no life, no life at all and of course I wanted to liberate my people from this fate for no one should have to go through life as chattel to another human being. It contradicts everything I've been raised to believe in, but when I look around my home. I don't see thralls. I don't see men and women who have earned the circumstances they find themselves in. I don't see criminals who labor an honest day's work for penance. I see people in chains, I see slaves. No matter how happy or content they may seem.
Not too long ago I believed that Thralldom was something that should be reformed, and that with the right changes we might even find it to be an acceptable penal system. I lied to myself and ignored the voice in my head telling me that it was wrong. I believed that if I was a traditionalist that I would earn the respect of my fellow Thraxians and honor my ancestors with my deeds. Yet again I was wrong. In my heart of hearts, I don't believe that my father would be proud of me. If the stories of his exploits are true, if Zaina has portrayed the man as accurately as she has, then I think he would be ashamed of me. As a Voice of House Thrax, my will is no longer my own. I live to serve my Liege and I will follow him to the depths of the sea if he told me to. Not just because he inspires me, and I honor my oaths but because he's my blood. Somewhere along the way I lost respect for myself, and I lied to myself about that too.
I can't live like this any longer, I can't continue to be someone I am not. If I want to be the breaker of chains, then it begins here in Arvum. I am making it my life's goal to see that every thrall who would pick up blade, spear, bow, ropes, hammer, needle, or compass stands beside the brave men and women of Thrax who fight for our survival. Let this white serve as a reminder that I will not rest until Thralldom has been abolished and it's practices stricken from the Isles. Every last man, woman, and child deserves to live a free life and die by the choices they have been empowered to make. Then, and only then will I set my sights on Petrioch, only then can I truly be the woman I was meant to be. May the Gods forgive me, may my mother and father forgive me. May those whom I have let down forgive me, and may they forgive me for the difficult times ahead.
Written By Fatima
Sept. 2, 2017, 2:17 p.m.(2/19/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Dagon
I find that when you have to publicly reaffirm your trustworthiness. You are untrustworthy. There should be no need to be so defensive when you've got nothing to hide. In fact making an issue out of nothing is the quickest way to draw suspicion. I'd advise against it, but such words would no doubt fall on deaf ears. I can say this much however, no one truly cares about hurt feelings at a time like this. Put on your big boy britches and stop being so divisive and inflammatory. I can congratulate you on one thing though. You've moved on from airing dirty laundry in the whites to full blown proclamations. That is amusing in and of itself. Sad, but amusing. When a matter is laid to rest, let is rest. Time will be your greatest ally in mending the reputation of your House, acts such as these only lend credence to those who would discredit you as being spawn of the Abyss and a treasonous turncoat. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but you really are starting to resemble Donrai more and more everyday.
Written By Fatima
Aug. 29, 2017, 3:31 a.m.(2/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Petal
Mistress Petal has always been one of the finest seamstresses in Arx. Her skill is exemplary and she has always catered to my peculiar taste in attire, for that she has my gratitude. Although I was not personally there on the beach to witness what she said, I heard about it and I've read about it all evening. Some people are upset, rightfully so. Other people have taken what she said as part of the image the Compact has of House Thrax (whether it be true or not). Some would say it's nothing new. However, none can attest it as a falsehood.
The Warlord made a strategic decision that he felt was best based on the tactical assessment of the battlefield. He saved lives doing what he did, on both sides. I am not the only one who has heard Prince Abbas state that he regrets the decision he had to make. He knew that it would not win him any praise but he did what he thought was right. War is a terrible thing, and it leaves no hand unscathed by the scalding flames of pain, suffering, and loss. The longer any conflict drags on, the more lifeblood will be spilled.
A great Thraxian Warlord once said, "The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting." We must consider the influences that everyone has had in their upbringing. We are not the same people, we do not wage war in the same manner. What we were taught is not the same as the rest of the Compact. It doesn't make us any less responsible for our actions, but when you take time to consider just /why/ someone might have made a choice that seemed so wrong...it should be clear that we are the sum of our experiences.
Remember that while we might condemn the outcome that occurred, the consequences might have been much the same. Those very same children that died of plague would have starved or died of exposure because their parents, mother and father would fight us to the death because their minds were not their own. While using plague as a weapon can be viewed as amoral, let's not fool ourselves into thinking that battle is glorious or morally just in any regard. Taking the live of another is taking the life of another. By blade, by decree, by political influence, by trade embargo, by the whispered words of a courtier, by the quill and inkwell, through espionage or any other manner direct or indirect. Sometimes doing the right thing is wrong.
I am not trying to dissuade any who choose to read this entry. People's feelings are valid because they belong to them. No one can tell us how we feel and no one should minimize someone else's feelings. Each of us is allowed to feel and to have our own opinions. Everyone is allowed to voice that opinion in an appropriate manner. The facts revolving around the judgement of the Gods, Thralldom, or past decisions made by the leadership of House Thrax are not easy things to address. Invariably people have been harmed by these incidents including Thraxians because contrary to popular belief. We are not all the same, we are a diverse people with many different cultures spread across the Isles. That no matter what happened in the past, I hope that we can all realize that sometimes good people made bad choices. It's never too late to learn from ones mistakes, it's never too late to make amends for the wrongs that have been done. It's not good enough to let bygones be bygones. We're better than that and those of us who do take responsibility for the things we've done have made steps to redeem themselves.
Mistress Petal should not be boycotted for her actions Thraxians. Mistress Petal should be embraced despite our differences. It may seem like a small thing, to disavow a seamstress. Most especially one not from the Isles, but it does not provide the Compact with the image that /we/ want them to have of House Thrax. We are a strong House and the opinions and words of others should have no bearing on our day to day lives. We are not petty and while I respect everyone's decision to take their business where they like. /I/ will continue giving Mistress Petal my business because words mean less to me than the intention and her intentions were pure. She asked forgiveness for our sins, and even if you don't feel like you have done anything that needs forgiving. The gesture itself is one of camaraderie and compassion. Whatever we choose to do as Thraxians, we should never condemn virtuous deeds. Not ever.
The Warlord made a strategic decision that he felt was best based on the tactical assessment of the battlefield. He saved lives doing what he did, on both sides. I am not the only one who has heard Prince Abbas state that he regrets the decision he had to make. He knew that it would not win him any praise but he did what he thought was right. War is a terrible thing, and it leaves no hand unscathed by the scalding flames of pain, suffering, and loss. The longer any conflict drags on, the more lifeblood will be spilled.
A great Thraxian Warlord once said, "The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting." We must consider the influences that everyone has had in their upbringing. We are not the same people, we do not wage war in the same manner. What we were taught is not the same as the rest of the Compact. It doesn't make us any less responsible for our actions, but when you take time to consider just /why/ someone might have made a choice that seemed so wrong...it should be clear that we are the sum of our experiences.
Remember that while we might condemn the outcome that occurred, the consequences might have been much the same. Those very same children that died of plague would have starved or died of exposure because their parents, mother and father would fight us to the death because their minds were not their own. While using plague as a weapon can be viewed as amoral, let's not fool ourselves into thinking that battle is glorious or morally just in any regard. Taking the live of another is taking the life of another. By blade, by decree, by political influence, by trade embargo, by the whispered words of a courtier, by the quill and inkwell, through espionage or any other manner direct or indirect. Sometimes doing the right thing is wrong.
I am not trying to dissuade any who choose to read this entry. People's feelings are valid because they belong to them. No one can tell us how we feel and no one should minimize someone else's feelings. Each of us is allowed to feel and to have our own opinions. Everyone is allowed to voice that opinion in an appropriate manner. The facts revolving around the judgement of the Gods, Thralldom, or past decisions made by the leadership of House Thrax are not easy things to address. Invariably people have been harmed by these incidents including Thraxians because contrary to popular belief. We are not all the same, we are a diverse people with many different cultures spread across the Isles. That no matter what happened in the past, I hope that we can all realize that sometimes good people made bad choices. It's never too late to learn from ones mistakes, it's never too late to make amends for the wrongs that have been done. It's not good enough to let bygones be bygones. We're better than that and those of us who do take responsibility for the things we've done have made steps to redeem themselves.
Mistress Petal should not be boycotted for her actions Thraxians. Mistress Petal should be embraced despite our differences. It may seem like a small thing, to disavow a seamstress. Most especially one not from the Isles, but it does not provide the Compact with the image that /we/ want them to have of House Thrax. We are a strong House and the opinions and words of others should have no bearing on our day to day lives. We are not petty and while I respect everyone's decision to take their business where they like. /I/ will continue giving Mistress Petal my business because words mean less to me than the intention and her intentions were pure. She asked forgiveness for our sins, and even if you don't feel like you have done anything that needs forgiving. The gesture itself is one of camaraderie and compassion. Whatever we choose to do as Thraxians, we should never condemn virtuous deeds. Not ever.
Written By Fatima
Aug. 20, 2017, 12:02 a.m.(1/20/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Dominic
Uncle Dominic, I loved you and I looked up to you. I could say so much more but...I am sure you'd laugh in my face for doing so.
Tears in Our Wake, Never At Our Wake....
Tears in Our Wake, Never At Our Wake....
Written By Fatima
Aug. 18, 2017, 10:40 p.m.(1/18/1007 AR)
The High Council meeting was quite productive, and I am grateful to everyone who came with solutions. Thank you Countess Navegant for your exemplary leadership skills and working with the Compact's allies to best see our Reconstruction efforts prosperous. Princess Denica, thank you for your wisdom and the moment's in which you made me smile. They gave me the strength to continue on despite the moment's of contention. Prince Abbas, brother...you are my hero and someday soon the sea will run red with the blood of our Great Foe's minions. In the meantime, calm thyself. No need to split anyone's wig just yet. Prince Dominic, your counsel that we provide a grand place of worship in the Ward was brilliant and well intentioned. With the blessing of the Legate and Seraph Ailith, we shall begin. I was thinking of appointing Lady Titania and Count Turo to be the project leads on this special gem. As for Lord Darrow. Yaaaaaaaas. Princess Alarissa thank you for your solidarity and the suggestions you put forth. You and your family have been nothing but gracious to me and mine. Duke Grimhall, as always your advice was well received. I wish I could say this Council meeting was a smashing succes, but I could have been better. I could have done more. Said more. Regardless. I think food is the first order of business, hangry people with differing opinions is a recipe for distaster. We have our agenda, we have allies in the Compact who have been so generous, we have our strength and fortitude. We have The Sentinel, we have Mangata. We will rise from this calamity stronger than before. Mark my words Vellichor.
Could you have them bring me the remaining octopus soup? No thank you. I'd like it chil- Good Gods scribe. Not that. No I didn't mean write down EVERYTHING I was saying. Why are you still writing? Dear...just stop. Stop. ((Further writings are scribbled out and difficult to read))
Could you have them bring me the remaining octopus soup? No thank you. I'd like it chil- Good Gods scribe. Not that. No I didn't mean write down EVERYTHING I was saying. Why are you still writing? Dear...just stop. Stop. ((Further writings are scribbled out and difficult to read))
Written By Fatima
Aug. 5, 2017, 6:58 p.m.(12/19/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Zaina
A return to Maelstrom, once more. Zaina has been on my mind and I miss her more than words can describe Vellichor.
Written By Fatima
July 30, 2017, 2:21 p.m.(12/7/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Denica
If my baby cousin is back in Arx, I will literally scream. Denica, the Little Devil of Thrax. Welcome back love.
Written By Fatima
July 6, 2017, 2:15 a.m.(10/14/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
Love is in the air. No really, the Redrain High Lord won't stop shouting it from the rooftops.
It's quite lovely though, to see his devotion and admiration for my sweet cousin, Donella.
Even now, as I sharpen my spear, I think fondly of the man for his courageousness.
In the famous words of one of the most amazing Whispers in all of Arvum's histories...
"Don't fuck it up."
It's quite lovely though, to see his devotion and admiration for my sweet cousin, Donella.
Even now, as I sharpen my spear, I think fondly of the man for his courageousness.
In the famous words of one of the most amazing Whispers in all of Arvum's histories...
"Don't fuck it up."
Written By Fatima
July 2, 2017, 10 p.m.(10/7/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Dagon
It's always perturbing to see such a lack of solidarity from one's own kinsmen. Did we not grow up under the same roof? Were we not both viewed as outcasts among our family? Did we not both strive for acceptance? Are you not named the Sword of Maelstrom? Yes, understandably, some things may not have gone your way. Though it is not in our ways to make petty jabs at one another. It does no one justice to see that you wish to stand apart so desperately that you would willingly jest about the relations that some of us have worked so hard to build. Your own sister has put blood, sweat and tears into Thrax. Do you not have a beautiful wife and a Duchy that was left in your care because we have faith in your ability to tend to the lands that our ancestors carved out from the inhospitable isles? Ours is most certainly a brusque, direct manner. No one will deny that, but the High Lord has made friends in every corner of Arvum. To speak about our willingness to corroborate with any other vassal of the Crown is disrespectful to the efforts of those who are putting their best foot forward. Set aside whatever differences you may have, imagined or otherwise. If you have issue, take it up with us. Do not air dirty laundry in white journals for sympathy.
Written By Fatima
July 2, 2017, 6 a.m.(10/6/1006 AR)
As long as my Lord is willing I am at his disposal, as ever and always. Victus is a source of inspiration and I owe him a great debt for the kindnesses he has shown me. Not in typical fashion of course as Thraxian men such as himself are callous and distant at best, but he is good man who wants the best for his people. I work to honor my family and better our House. Donnie is my mentor in all this and I am blessed to have some of the greatest teachers there are. Thank you Margot for having patience for a spoiled thing like me. In all this flurry of change, nothing is different. I live to serve the long-standing traditions and to preserve the ways our people.
Written By Fatima
July 1, 2017, 1:10 a.m.(10/4/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Isabeau
The dawn of a new era, never have those words meant more...
Written By Fatima
June 19, 2017, 1:27 a.m.(9/5/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Selene
Oh Selene, a sweet summer breeze on a cold and dreary day. She smells of roses and something delicious. I can't quite put my tongue on it, it was truly a pleasure. We will no doubt be seeing more of one another, and one another more often. The young Radiant reminds me of a particular goddess but that's between us isn't it now oh white journal. Surely no one would be interested in reading what I had to say about Marquis Kennex pool party. Next time, I won't lose to Regi because I will have Selene's fortifying favor to carry with me into battle. Hopefully, if I play my cards right...yes....yes.
Written By Fatima
June 18, 2017, 1:12 a.m.(9/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Carita
I am unashamed to admit that Carita tells the best bedtime stories.
Perhaps soon, someday, she will tuck me in and tell me another tale.
Something a little less light-hearted perhaps? I wonder if she knows
any Eurusi fables or myths. Carita if you read this, you know where
to find me love.
Perhaps soon, someday, she will tuck me in and tell me another tale.
Something a little less light-hearted perhaps? I wonder if she knows
any Eurusi fables or myths. Carita if you read this, you know where
to find me love.
Written By Fatima
June 11, 2017, 11:58 p.m.(8/19/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Dominic
Uncle Dominic you're the best. No matter what people say, I was aiming for the apple. Little princess's promise. <3
Written By Fatima
June 11, 2017, 11:56 p.m.(8/19/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Freja
Now when I returned to this city, I didn't know what to expect but getting to meet new people is always a good time. However getting to meet Freja was the highlight of my week. Gods the woman is gorgeous, brilliant, enjoys her libations, and can toss an axe. Marry me. You and me are fast friends and although Dagon may not let me hold his sword, perhaps I can convince you to let me hold yours? I mean it's so shiny and sharp. No one ever lets me handle the sharp things except for Uncle Dominic.
Written By Fatima
June 11, 2017, 11:52 p.m.(8/19/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Dagon
Oh Dagon, I only kicked you in the shins because I couldn't reach your nether regions. Rest assured cousin, one day I will hold that sword! Besides, it has been several days now, and no matter where I am looking. High or low, I still don't see a gift. Not a single little token of your affection. I guess I will have to settle for that quick wit of yours, it is a gift to us all. I love you cousin and I promise to never ever throw a knife in your general direction...on purpose...unless asked.
Written By Fatima
June 11, 2017, 11:48 p.m.(8/19/1006 AR)
This week has been wild. Coming back was interesting to say the least.
Duels, Rites, and Thraxian wakes. I still can't believe the devastation
to the Thrax Ward, but to see everyone so unified brings me hope for
a brighter future. I know it may be impossible to ever see eye to eye,
but seeing people set aside their differences for the greater good has
been refreshing.
Duels, Rites, and Thraxian wakes. I still can't believe the devastation
to the Thrax Ward, but to see everyone so unified brings me hope for
a brighter future. I know it may be impossible to ever see eye to eye,
but seeing people set aside their differences for the greater good has
been refreshing.
Written By Fatima
June 6, 2017, 6:41 a.m.(8/8/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
I'm not sure and it has been on my mind since reading the blasted thing. Edain, when we say cornhole, can I be sure we are talking of the same thing? This game and it's nuances sound very similar to something else - I just can't quite put my finger on it. Let's just highlight the commonalities: Eager and inexperienced players causing messes around holes, finishing in dramatic fashion. Why does it seem to elude me? It's on the tip of my tongue.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.