Written By Mae
April 16, 2018, 6:16 p.m.(7/24/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Caith
On Princess Caith's love for all of Arx:
It would seem the Princess loves each and every fealty. Those of us sworn to Arx's sovereign? I presumed beneath mention and thoroughly unloved.
Though I cannot say I disagree with the princess' suggestion that duels should follow offense.
Is it my duty to challenge you to a hug duel, Princess Caith? Or are we poor Crownsworn too low to hug?
It would seem the Princess loves each and every fealty. Those of us sworn to Arx's sovereign? I presumed beneath mention and thoroughly unloved.
Though I cannot say I disagree with the princess' suggestion that duels should follow offense.
Is it my duty to challenge you to a hug duel, Princess Caith? Or are we poor Crownsworn too low to hug?
Written By Mae
April 13, 2018, 1:10 p.m.(7/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Derovai
I think, Derovai Moss, you might have missed my point. We try our best to move toward justice, but I think any understanding we have of the greater concept is, at best, a human understanding. An educated guess. A good idea that we want to be right.
Unless you're so confident you know the whole of the will of the Gods. Then you can move toward your fixed point. You can tell us the true intentions of the Sentinel, and maybe along the way, the true intentions of the other Gods? Though something tells me even you are not willing to admit you know such things.
Unless you're so confident you know the whole of the will of the Gods. Then you can move toward your fixed point. You can tell us the true intentions of the Sentinel, and maybe along the way, the true intentions of the other Gods? Though something tells me even you are not willing to admit you know such things.
Written By Mae
April 13, 2018, 10:04 a.m.(7/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Derovai
On the matter of justice: always changing or never changing...
I had a long talk with Father Orazio about this once. And while I'll gladly say he said all this, I should probably warn that my memory of his words and what was actually said probably different. But what I remember coming from it...
Is the awareness that justice, as we see it, is probably a far way from what the Sentinel would want. We talked of compassion versus justice. About forgiveness. About punishments and about the way some may suffer for choices that were more or less out of control. Example: Someone starving steals bread. They're thieves, and they'd be punished if we adhere to the letter of the law. Is that justice? Perhaps, at this moment, in a world where equal application of the law is justice.
But as Father Orazio told me, he believes (and I agree) that justice is not simply this. That justice is the best outcome for the people involved. Punishment is sometimes needed to make change or remind people of the right path, but punishment is never our goal. In a perfect world, where justice is pure, stealing bread might be a crime, but no one would be hungry. So the above situation simply would not happen.
So, does justice change? In some grand, cosmic sense: No. We try to reflect the Gods, and I have a feeling what they represent at their core does not change.
But speaking in any sort of practical way? (Does Derovai Moss speak in practical ways?) Yes, justice is constantly changing. It should change. We should march toward divinity whenever we are able. And surely there are missteps, and confusion, and we step to the side or backwards at times. But let us all hope we keep moving toward the Gods.
I had a long talk with Father Orazio about this once. And while I'll gladly say he said all this, I should probably warn that my memory of his words and what was actually said probably different. But what I remember coming from it...
Is the awareness that justice, as we see it, is probably a far way from what the Sentinel would want. We talked of compassion versus justice. About forgiveness. About punishments and about the way some may suffer for choices that were more or less out of control. Example: Someone starving steals bread. They're thieves, and they'd be punished if we adhere to the letter of the law. Is that justice? Perhaps, at this moment, in a world where equal application of the law is justice.
But as Father Orazio told me, he believes (and I agree) that justice is not simply this. That justice is the best outcome for the people involved. Punishment is sometimes needed to make change or remind people of the right path, but punishment is never our goal. In a perfect world, where justice is pure, stealing bread might be a crime, but no one would be hungry. So the above situation simply would not happen.
So, does justice change? In some grand, cosmic sense: No. We try to reflect the Gods, and I have a feeling what they represent at their core does not change.
But speaking in any sort of practical way? (Does Derovai Moss speak in practical ways?) Yes, justice is constantly changing. It should change. We should march toward divinity whenever we are able. And surely there are missteps, and confusion, and we step to the side or backwards at times. But let us all hope we keep moving toward the Gods.
Written By Mae
April 13, 2018, 9:51 a.m.(7/17/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
And you were dead right! Thank you, Archlector!
Written By Mae
April 11, 2018, 12:25 p.m.(7/13/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Magpie
To truly be an artist, you must give up entirely on your art. Check!
Now, you need to write about how everything you've ever done is adequate, at best. And deny being an artist.
Next, make something truly ridiculous, preferably about or involving or representing Marquessa Lianne Malespero.
Now, you need to write about how everything you've ever done is adequate, at best. And deny being an artist.
Next, make something truly ridiculous, preferably about or involving or representing Marquessa Lianne Malespero.
Written By Mae
April 8, 2018, 2:19 p.m.(7/7/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Bastien
Are the nobility really paying Playwright Bastien to publicly insult them?
I haven't got his way with words, so, can I start painting insults? Or perhaps they can just send me money for no reason at all?
Though I guess it is good news that Pravus and Grayson (and whomever else I might have missed) have had enough success on their rebuilding efforts that they can afford Bastien's venom.
(Do I sound petty and jealous enough? I hope so. It's a brilliant idea that I wish I had first! He doesn't even have to pretend the characters in his plays aren't particular nobles!)
I haven't got his way with words, so, can I start painting insults? Or perhaps they can just send me money for no reason at all?
Though I guess it is good news that Pravus and Grayson (and whomever else I might have missed) have had enough success on their rebuilding efforts that they can afford Bastien's venom.
(Do I sound petty and jealous enough? I hope so. It's a brilliant idea that I wish I had first! He doesn't even have to pretend the characters in his plays aren't particular nobles!)
Written By Mae
April 6, 2018, 10:14 p.m.(7/4/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Kenna
Regarding how unpredictable life is...
I would argue, Lady Kenna, that life is wholly predictable: We are born. We live. Then we die.
Any that haven't got a will prepared, because they believe they will not soon die, are almost surely foolish. They will die. We all will.
(Which is to say that you, of course, are correct.)
I would argue, Lady Kenna, that life is wholly predictable: We are born. We live. Then we die.
Any that haven't got a will prepared, because they believe they will not soon die, are almost surely foolish. They will die. We all will.
(Which is to say that you, of course, are correct.)
Written By Mae
March 29, 2018, 10:27 p.m.(6/14/1008 AR)
I think I'd like to see Blessed Peanut, Archlector of Jayus, the voice of the God of Crafting.
Oh, why Jayus? No, no, I like Wylla plenty. I just think Peanut's place is in the world of the trades and builders.
See, I heard he's a great roofer.
Oh, why Jayus? No, no, I like Wylla plenty. I just think Peanut's place is in the world of the trades and builders.
See, I heard he's a great roofer.
Written By Mae
March 29, 2018, 6:56 p.m.(6/14/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Belladonna
On the matter of Count Duarte Amadeo, I was asked by Duchess Belladonna Pravus what Duarte is responsible for, and if there's any proof.
The matter is particularly curious because my instincts tell me that Count Duarte has done something in his life. That, through out all of it, there is at least one singular choice that he made that he is responsible for. I would imagine, for instance, that being ennobled is not something that was done to him without his consent. That it was, a choice he made, for which he is responsible. As for proof, I would like to submit to the scholars the fact that I keep writing "Count" in front of Duarte Amadeo.
Yet, as I sit here and write, I can't help but question the very reality of all of this. Perhaps Duarte's ennoblement was done TO him. Perhaps it's proof of nothing at all! Perhaps Duchess Belladonna is correct, and Count Duarte is not responsible for anything. Or, at the least, there's no proof that his deeds are his own.
But I think we'll need to pull the Archlector of Choice into the mix, to determine if the good Count has free will or not.
Or, is it the Archlector of Petrichor, to inform us if puppy dogs can choose?
The matter is particularly curious because my instincts tell me that Count Duarte has done something in his life. That, through out all of it, there is at least one singular choice that he made that he is responsible for. I would imagine, for instance, that being ennobled is not something that was done to him without his consent. That it was, a choice he made, for which he is responsible. As for proof, I would like to submit to the scholars the fact that I keep writing "Count" in front of Duarte Amadeo.
Yet, as I sit here and write, I can't help but question the very reality of all of this. Perhaps Duarte's ennoblement was done TO him. Perhaps it's proof of nothing at all! Perhaps Duchess Belladonna is correct, and Count Duarte is not responsible for anything. Or, at the least, there's no proof that his deeds are his own.
But I think we'll need to pull the Archlector of Choice into the mix, to determine if the good Count has free will or not.
Or, is it the Archlector of Petrichor, to inform us if puppy dogs can choose?
Written By Mae
March 29, 2018, 6:11 p.m.(6/14/1008 AR)
Dear Scholars,
Today, someone has written that Count Duarte Amadeo would be "fully responsible for what happens" to himself.
I question, dear scholars, if Count Duarte has ever been partially responsible for what happens to himself, let alone fully. Perhaps if one of you all have time, you could investigate?
<3 Mae
Today, someone has written that Count Duarte Amadeo would be "fully responsible for what happens" to himself.
I question, dear scholars, if Count Duarte has ever been partially responsible for what happens to himself, let alone fully. Perhaps if one of you all have time, you could investigate?
<3 Mae
Written By Mae
March 29, 2018, 12:28 a.m.(6/12/1008 AR)
Murder of Crows Darts and Drinking Contest - Spring '08
Princess Agatha Redrain claimed victory in the darts tournament over Dame Eleanor Allenatore, with a score of 149 to 100. The high score of the night came from Dame Eleanor in an earlier round at 189.
In the drinking contest, Genevieve Waldenwyn went 5 rounds with Marquessa Marigold's Mint Madness and lasted just a smidge longer than Sir Jeffeth Bayweather. She won an ultra rare, limited edition, highly collectible Highway Robbery figurine!
A special mention to Count Orrin, who made a donation to ensure all commoners were able to partake in the competition for free!
Princess Agatha Redrain claimed victory in the darts tournament over Dame Eleanor Allenatore, with a score of 149 to 100. The high score of the night came from Dame Eleanor in an earlier round at 189.
In the drinking contest, Genevieve Waldenwyn went 5 rounds with Marquessa Marigold's Mint Madness and lasted just a smidge longer than Sir Jeffeth Bayweather. She won an ultra rare, limited edition, highly collectible Highway Robbery figurine!
A special mention to Count Orrin, who made a donation to ensure all commoners were able to partake in the competition for free!
Written By Mae
March 28, 2018, 6:11 p.m.(6/12/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Thena
Trading Itzal for some eggnog sounds fair.
My advice in dealing with him: Knock before you barge into his room.
My advice in dealing with him: Knock before you barge into his room.
Written By Mae
March 28, 2018, 10:51 a.m.(6/11/1008 AR)
Wait, we're trading siblings?!
What will people give me for Itzal? He's not too ugly, he's tall enough to reach high shelves, he's reasonably physically fit and can lift boxes, and he has a pretty good singing voice.
There's also Gibson, with a wit sharp like an old knife, and a face that proves he can run away from a fight!
Serious inquiries only, please!
What will people give me for Itzal? He's not too ugly, he's tall enough to reach high shelves, he's reasonably physically fit and can lift boxes, and he has a pretty good singing voice.
There's also Gibson, with a wit sharp like an old knife, and a face that proves he can run away from a fight!
Serious inquiries only, please!
Written By Mae
March 22, 2018, 5:08 p.m.(5/27/1008 AR)
I realize I never wrote a follow up. Magpie is home, safe and sound. Mayir and Fortunato, too. They brought with them Dame Eleanor, who was quite injured. I saw to Eleanor before sending her on to the Mercies.
I'll rest easier now.
I'll rest easier now.
Written By Mae
March 20, 2018, 12:46 p.m.(5/23/1008 AR)
I've gotten word from Magpie. The fight is still on, he says. More to do, he says.
He'll be joining the battle, he says.
My husband is not a military man. He does not lead men into battle. In fact, one of his best skills is running away from danger. And yet, he's determined he needs to fight. I'm frustrated, and upset, and angry. But I keep reminding myself what all is at stake. What he is fighting for, what he is fighting against.
Normally, I feel conflicted praying for the safe return of men and women who choose to go risk their lives in battle, and surely Magpie has made this choice. Yet, now, in the face of this actual and obvious evil? I pray. I pray that the Gods prevail, that the Compact prevails, and that my husband prevails.
Oh, and Mayir and Fortunato and everyone else, too.
He'll be joining the battle, he says.
My husband is not a military man. He does not lead men into battle. In fact, one of his best skills is running away from danger. And yet, he's determined he needs to fight. I'm frustrated, and upset, and angry. But I keep reminding myself what all is at stake. What he is fighting for, what he is fighting against.
Normally, I feel conflicted praying for the safe return of men and women who choose to go risk their lives in battle, and surely Magpie has made this choice. Yet, now, in the face of this actual and obvious evil? I pray. I pray that the Gods prevail, that the Compact prevails, and that my husband prevails.
Oh, and Mayir and Fortunato and everyone else, too.
Written By Mae
March 19, 2018, 1 p.m.(5/21/1008 AR)
Now, I know that I don't have all the facts, but this isn't my Bulletin. So who needs all the facts? I can just read and guess. And from what it sounds like...
Did Prince Aiden really do that bad a job commanding? I thought Princess Reese made him one of the commanders in the Grayson army. Was that a big mistake?
Did Prince Aiden really do that bad a job commanding? I thought Princess Reese made him one of the commanders in the Grayson army. Was that a big mistake?
Written By Mae
March 16, 2018, 4:25 p.m.(5/15/1008 AR)
I feel I should write something meaningful. I feel, on the eve of what will surely be a time full of death, I should have more to say. I am, after all, a Harlequin of Death.
Yet, I have nothing to say. My heart is full of worry that my Magpie will not come back to me. That so many others that I love and cherish will not come back to me. I ache for the lives that will be lost. I hurt for the men and women and children that will be left widowed, orphaned, fatherless, motherless, family-less, alone. I have already cried again and again over these thoughts.
As I stay here in Arx, safe and sound, I am so very grateful for those that are still here. For new friends and old. For anyone that will listen to me whine and hold me as I cry. For those men and women that remain here, in Death's city, to ensure the rest of us staying here remain safe and sound.
As I read through all the wills that have been posted, my heart sinks further. So many beautiful words, so many ugly words. So many fancy swords and jewels left behind. I notice that my name is mentioned twice, once by someone saying they love me (I love you too, Reese) and once by someone willing to me my property. Not only do I feel such deep sorrow, but also such angst. Did I leave an impression on so few people in this world? So many wills, and only mentioned twice? Yes, it upsets me that I'm not in more wills. Yes, I am that petty and selfish. Yes, I don't much like myself for this being my reaction.
And so, I stay here in Arx. Crying and laughing. Overjoyed to have people who I can speak to, yet aching for those that are away and may never return. I await news from Setarco so very eagerly. I know Magpie will return, and bring Mayir back with him, too. I'm positive it will happen. Yet I am sobbing for the thought that it won't. And I remain so very mad at myself for being jealous over silly wills, for not giving the battle at Stormwall more than a second thought, and for not having something meaningful or helpful or inspiring to write.
But then, I guess I do have something to write. I'll write what I've said before, and what I will say again...
To all of you with hearts and minds as unsettled and tormented as mine: It's okay to be sad. It's okay to worry. It's okay to feel angst. It's okay to cry.
Death is with us, always. She sends us into this world and She takes us back when we leave it. Knowing this doesn't make it any less sad when we lose those we love, or when we fear losing those we love. So, it's okay to cry. I encourage it. Crying might be the thing you need more than anything else right now.
But we cannot live in our sorrow and angst and worry, because not all in life is sorrow. Leave room for joy, for happiness, for hope, for all the wonderful and beautiful people and things that are still here. Leave room for your loved ones to return to you, or, if they don't, their best memories to live on with you.
And, in the meanwhile, if anyone wants someone to cry with, just write me.
Yet, I have nothing to say. My heart is full of worry that my Magpie will not come back to me. That so many others that I love and cherish will not come back to me. I ache for the lives that will be lost. I hurt for the men and women and children that will be left widowed, orphaned, fatherless, motherless, family-less, alone. I have already cried again and again over these thoughts.
As I stay here in Arx, safe and sound, I am so very grateful for those that are still here. For new friends and old. For anyone that will listen to me whine and hold me as I cry. For those men and women that remain here, in Death's city, to ensure the rest of us staying here remain safe and sound.
As I read through all the wills that have been posted, my heart sinks further. So many beautiful words, so many ugly words. So many fancy swords and jewels left behind. I notice that my name is mentioned twice, once by someone saying they love me (I love you too, Reese) and once by someone willing to me my property. Not only do I feel such deep sorrow, but also such angst. Did I leave an impression on so few people in this world? So many wills, and only mentioned twice? Yes, it upsets me that I'm not in more wills. Yes, I am that petty and selfish. Yes, I don't much like myself for this being my reaction.
And so, I stay here in Arx. Crying and laughing. Overjoyed to have people who I can speak to, yet aching for those that are away and may never return. I await news from Setarco so very eagerly. I know Magpie will return, and bring Mayir back with him, too. I'm positive it will happen. Yet I am sobbing for the thought that it won't. And I remain so very mad at myself for being jealous over silly wills, for not giving the battle at Stormwall more than a second thought, and for not having something meaningful or helpful or inspiring to write.
But then, I guess I do have something to write. I'll write what I've said before, and what I will say again...
To all of you with hearts and minds as unsettled and tormented as mine: It's okay to be sad. It's okay to worry. It's okay to feel angst. It's okay to cry.
Death is with us, always. She sends us into this world and She takes us back when we leave it. Knowing this doesn't make it any less sad when we lose those we love, or when we fear losing those we love. So, it's okay to cry. I encourage it. Crying might be the thing you need more than anything else right now.
But we cannot live in our sorrow and angst and worry, because not all in life is sorrow. Leave room for joy, for happiness, for hope, for all the wonderful and beautiful people and things that are still here. Leave room for your loved ones to return to you, or, if they don't, their best memories to live on with you.
And, in the meanwhile, if anyone wants someone to cry with, just write me.
Written By Mae
March 15, 2018, 10:52 a.m.(5/13/1008 AR)
For any and all that might be wondering, I am not leaving Arx. I've left Arx three times ever, and each time has been more scary than the previous. I'm sure not going to set out when there's a war on!
That said, I will be in the Shrine of the Queen of Endings and Mother of Beginnings often. Any and all that wish to come speak about endings and beginnings, those passed and those yet to come, I will gladly consult as best as I am able. And if the words of a Harlequin are not what you need, the Murder of Crows is open and pouring a different kind of console.
That said, I will be in the Shrine of the Queen of Endings and Mother of Beginnings often. Any and all that wish to come speak about endings and beginnings, those passed and those yet to come, I will gladly consult as best as I am able. And if the words of a Harlequin are not what you need, the Murder of Crows is open and pouring a different kind of console.
Written By Mae
March 9, 2018, 9:08 a.m.(5/1/1008 AR)
How timely that we now see the children of a disgraced (ex) noble being brought into a Lycene house! Was in not Procella Pravus herself that was raised under the weight and scorn of her parents misdeeds? Was it not this mistreatment of a young woman that lead Procella to turn towards dark forces?
I am, of course, referencing the story of the fantastical opera recently performed by at the Blackrose Theater.
Beware scorning any Pravus' for the sins of their parents! They might end up siding with the Prodigal and taking over the Lyceum!
I am, of course, referencing the story of the fantastical opera recently performed by at the Blackrose Theater.
Beware scorning any Pravus' for the sins of their parents! They might end up siding with the Prodigal and taking over the Lyceum!
Written By Mae
March 7, 2018, 12:25 p.m.(4/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Niklas
*Drawn here is a rather skillful pencil sketch of a rather regal looking retriever, with a stick in it's mouth. Beneath it, some text.*
Lord Niklas - if you need any assistance in someone taking all your possessions should you perish, I gladly will! I've no intention of perishing in this coming war.
Lord Niklas - if you need any assistance in someone taking all your possessions should you perish, I gladly will! I've no intention of perishing in this coming war.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.