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Written By Acacia

March 12, 2017, 11:14 p.m.(1/28/1006 AR)

Relationship Note on Franco

Franco is a unique Lord, indeed. Even if he hadn't partially teamed up with Orathy in the storming of the ship at Jaenelle's event, I think he would've caught my focus simply by the persona he exudes. He's just reckless, crude and exciting enough that I nearly feel that I can be myself around him. Needless to say, he's left a lasting impression. I'm not entirely sure what future Arx holds for him, but it's certainly one I'm going to want to witness.

Written By Acacia

March 12, 2017, 4:23 p.m.(1/28/1006 AR)

Prince Ainsley's proclamation conveyed good tidings, but fixing tensions between the Iron Guard and the people will take time. That history of disgruntlement which grew ever more prominent back at the beginning of the King's Rest has rooted deeply within the hearts and memories of some and will not be easily forgotten.

But as war shadows our doorstep and the mind wanders, infiltrated by darker things, a united defense of the City requires people to at least temporarily cast grievances aside for a greater good.

Lord Commander Silas approached me three weeks ago regarding the Aspirations of Alcohol event, but the purpose was always for the defenses of the city and his determined focus in achieving just that was more than enough to convince me. He selflessly dug into coffers to achieve sponsorship in order to fulfill these goals and he pulled things off rather admirably. The whole of his commitment demonstrated it was more than just some ploy to present a false bond between certain groups of influence. Until peace comes to Arx once more, working together will be required.

Written By Acacia

March 10, 2017, 11:04 p.m.(1/25/1006 AR)

Thirteen Houses and Families participated in the second Aspirations of Alcohol event.

First prize went to House Kennex.
Second prize went to House Velenosa.

And the two remarkably tied for honorable mentions were House Riven's spiced cider and House Laurent's Reserve Mead.

Guildmaster Joscelin Arterius and Mistress Aurora Thornburn provided the exquisite prizes.

Overall, the fundraiser was undoubtedly a success thanks to the generosity and participation provided by those from all reaches in the City. Let us all pray that the upcoming battles will be as well.

The Submissions:

1. Mother's Spiced Cider [House Riven]
a warm pear cider with shaved ginger
2. White City Cider [House Valardin]
a dark, fragrant cider with heavy foam
3. Winter's Blush [House Fidante]
a sparkling, pale pink-colored rose wine with light, fruity tones

4. Caith's Pale & 20 [House Gilden]
a pale amber whiskey carrying tones of vanilla and passion fruit
5. Setarco Fire [House Pravus]
a golden liquid with an orange pepper on the side
6. Farhaven's Finest [House Redrain]
a rich amber, single malt whiskey

7. Garnet Pinot [Family Mercier]
a brilliant ruby wine with minty fruit flavors
8. Lenosian Shiraz Firewine [House Velenosa]
a seasonal, dark red spicy wine of shiraz grapes & blackberries
9. A Lenosian Strawberry Wine [Family Black]
a dry red strawberry wine, with tannins to subdue the sweetness

10. Imperial Chocolate Cream [House Grayson]
a dark and creamy, milk stout, with a rich chocolate scent
11. Oseyan Mango [House Kennex]
a tropical vodka infused with and distilled with imported mangos
12. Sailor's Rum [House Thrax]
a dark spiced rum that has a warm odor and a hint of cinnamon

13. Artshall Reserve Mead, 995 [House Laurent]
a rich honey mead, golden hued and richly flavoured

Written By Acacia

March 9, 2017, 5:32 p.m.(1/22/1006 AR)

Relationship Note on Mae

Messengers in general have spoiled Arx rotten in their abilities to provide written and spoken words, swiftly and efficiently. They have the largest network by far, able to traverse to all areas and express the needs of those who entrust them. Mae is a perfect messenger.

We were always close to the same age growing up, but I think I found myself watching and tracking after the alley paths she carved rather than spending it by her side. She's resourceful, witty, and her very presence in the room grants it life and encourages others to seek her out. There's something about her fond kisses on the cheek, those invading embraces and the openness of her too-bold face which lures you in. I'm terribly protective of her, but I know that I don't need to be. She's definitely capable of handling herself.

Written By Acacia

March 9, 2017, 5:22 p.m.(1/22/1006 AR)

Many of us are serious far too often, but there's been an excess of good reasons to be just that in the past years and those weights carried by many are constant reminder.

Princess Jaenelle's event invited one to look at a lighter side of life, to use senses not typically employed when we judge, and perhaps trust those you might not initially seek to. It was perfect, really, and I'm quite thankful I was able to have the opportunity to attend.

Lord Franco escorted me, and while the cost of such will forever stain his memories, it was an experience not easily forgotten. He was quite perfect, really.

But well, we can be thankful for the little things.

Thankful there was no olives.
Thankful there was no incidents.
Thankful we had spoons instead of knives.
Thankful jokes can be forgiven.

Written By Acacia

March 4, 2017, 11:11 p.m.(1/13/1006 AR)

I once told the Princess and her Cousin on a summer cruise that if she so wished it, I would assist them in stealing a ship of their choosing. Little did I realize she'd produce her own ship and a 'Prince' prize to go with it.

Bloody Gods, it was freezing cold, but it was exhilarating at the same time and I'd do it again without a thought. For entertainment and good will, it was perfect.

Mistress Leta was fantastic. I thought I was doing pretty good, but she'd just fly past. She was made for this kind of thing, really. I can't help but be a little envious.

I'm rather glad that Lord Franco and Orathy didn't end up tripping everyone on the way out though. It was good seeing the blood rushing through my Not-Uncle in the way it was and Lord Franco's a sight of his own.

Overall, it was a great success. But then again, I'm always a huge fan of the things Princess Jaenelle puts on.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 28, 2017, 4:17 p.m.(1/4/1006 AR)

Relationship Note on Harmon

A Master of Pockets. A Collector of Facts. An intriguing, swift-talking man who needs to eat more, sleep more, and possibly drink... less? Well, maybe more. There's very few that need to drink less if your life doesn't seem to rely on that at that minute.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 26, 2017, 12:02 a.m.(12/27/1005 AR)

I cheerfully had informed the Lord Commander that should he win the joust, he definitely should put that prize alaricite dagger carelessly down somewhere very unguarded. What a beauty it was. Donated by Princess Lark, I heard.

I lost every single one of my bets to Duchess Sylvie. It'd been ages since I had sat down with her and I'm not regretful in the slightest. She proved excellent company. But really. Who would've imagined that the Horse Whisperer would be that adept? Well, I suppose the name gave it away, eh?

I wasn't able to stay for the Grand Melee, but there was certainly skin to see for all despite the weather. I heard Sir Roland came through triumphant at the end. Would that he won when I had bet upon him the first time. Tch.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 25, 2017, 4:33 p.m.(12/26/1005 AR)

Looking for someone to teach Orathy penmanship. Should have solid endurance and potentially the ability to dodge inkwells, quills and fists.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 25, 2017, 2:46 p.m.(12/26/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Eleyna

Princess Eleyna is rather magnificent. She has that sharp-edged presence that I've come to expect from Velenosa, but hers is well-honed and ... kind of delightful. I had heard word that she was quick-witted, but I was still pleasantly surprised by how adept she truly is. She'll be one to watch. Perhaps one to fear.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 25, 2017, 2:38 p.m.(12/26/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Anze

Prince Anze - Brother to Princess Freja. Unsurprisingly, he's bright and fearsome like the rest of his siblings. Gods, and they're both so bloody tall. He falls prey to that typical fix-it mentality that many do, instead of just listening and letting things go. But that sibling affection and protectiveness is one that I can appreciate. Especially if one can recognize that perhaps all it takes is a couple punches to feel better sometimes. At least you know his wedding will be good. The Redrain Family certainly know how to make good whiskey flow.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 25, 2017, 2:34 p.m.(12/26/1005 AR)

I wasn't sure initially what to expect. The lead-up to the entire thing felt like it belonged on the stages of the Black Rose rather than announced to the populace itself.

Duke Niccolo's reply was quite good though. It had that professional air and practiced decorum where others might've just waved their hand and been annoyed. He slighted no one.

When Talen lost upon that first blood to that excellent cut of Princess Reese, again the announcement only brought honor. The Princess fought well. Kinda glad I didn't bet on that one.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 19, 2017, 9:34 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)

When rare opportunities arise, one would be amiss not to take them. It's very easy to get caught up in the concepts of pride and wariness and instead miss what might lay before you instead.

The future oft seems darker, bloodier, and more unknown as the days continue. But there's still a light there that becomes all the more noticeable in contrast.

In other news:
Ice cream is delicious.
Sauces are perhaps underrated.
And should I ever own more than two spoons, I might consider getting them weighted for throwing.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 19, 2017, 9:31 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Talen

There's certain things I might've missed about Talen. Certain things I didn't.

But throughout the time I've known him, I've never once thought that he wasn't good at that which he does.

Like it or not, I've learned a lot from him over the year. Not necessarily things I'll copy, but certain things of note that would make me poorer off should I ever forget them.

Those fucking gauntlets, though.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 19, 2017, 2:32 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)

I'd heard Mistress Julea Sanguine's name more than a time or two. Given that she's Prince Darren Redrain's protege, a known member of the Commoner's Council, and a worthy one to remember in the Valorous Few. Heard a couple other things too - that she was a bit crass and that fiery temper of hers made her seem impatient. It was a lot of words for someone I'd never crossed paths with. As such, I didn't know what to expect at the Assembly when it was her turn to speak on the Borough's situation.

Frankly, she was brilliant.

It takes a lot of guts and particular strong beliefs to stand up among a multitude of peers and denizens, silence bits of old habits and keep a list of etiquette rules at mind. It's harder when you haven't grown up around it and you find yourself utilizing that survival instinct to adapt to any situation instead. Many people can recognize this.

But she spoke words that even I had heard ushered from the lips of the Borough citizens that were frank and passionate.

The Iron Guard went through hard times. Their numbers may have been cut, but the process of getting to this point has left a bad taste from years of suffering through certain incidents in the Lower Boroughs. The Lord Commander Silas was one of those people who took up an early stance to try to stomp out the corruption that existed -- but the issue is - that it did exist and isn't something so easily stomped out.

With threats at the walls and soldiers needed more than ever, issues that are harsh at the backs of the people do little to ease minds. No one wants to have to worry about both their enemies in front of them, and unrest behind them.

It's a noble idea, that concept that the Iron Guard of the people shouldn't have a separate division that relies on castes or particular areas to be watched over. That concept of non-bias is certainly something that perhaps should ever be worked for. But the fact of the matter is, it does exist. It exists even in that same Assembly Hall which is separated by Great Houses, into the seating arrangements at the Black Rose Theatre and how the quadrants of Arx itself has grown to be overtime.

I don't think anyone is seeking to alter the status quo, to rise people up when they haven't been properly educated or guided by blood by this new concept of having a separate division for a Borough Guard. It certainly isn't for the sake of being unruly or breaking off to further add division. It's only a matter of trying to settle minds, ease tensions, and perhaps bring a greater sense of peace and unity to the common people. That also, is a noble idea.

There's no guarantee that it'll work. That's true. But there's a number of common people, who have proved themselves adept, who would fight for such an opportunity and crave it even now. Try something new, ease tensions, reduce the hardship to the Guard who already needs new recruits, and allow them to step forth so that the Compact can focus on more important things. Is that so terrible?

Written By Acacia

Feb. 19, 2017, 2:13 p.m.(12/14/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Garza

I like the man. I don't know him well enough for hate to come into play. Not yet. He's possessed of a witty tongue, a capable hand, and the ability to keep silent when it's good for his health. Those are all excellent characteristics for keeping one alive, don't you think? I told him that I'd want to pry through his mind at some point, and I imagine I'll make good on that.

That said. You know, there's nothing wrong with fat people, Garza. Or the vast majority of devious birds.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 17, 2017, 2:14 a.m.(12/9/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Mae

Today, Mae is my favorite.

Tomorrow, she might just be my favorite too.

It's just that deep down inside my heart, I know that beneath all the things that get so easily on my good side -- she's probably really getting in mayhem. Maybe. It's dismaying, really.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 14, 2017, 11:21 a.m.(12/4/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Nadia

The Duchess Nadia began making waves within Arx the minute she arrived. Beneath the ease in which she carried herself gracefully and fluidly revolved around social circles, there was a polished and subtle cunning that was easily overlooked. She was certainly one of those to ever keep an eye on. Her loss will surely be felt by many.

Written By Acacia

Feb. 12, 2017, 1:45 a.m.(11/27/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Jeremiah

I had personally sought out Master Jeremiah and found him perfectly ensconced between inkwells and paperwork. It paints a worthy picture of someone who works in the capacity he does upon the Council. The husband of Bethany Mercier, he struck me as someone hard working, if somewhat youthfully preoccupied. I've browsed through some of the writings he's completed in the Stacks and assume with a mind like that, getting all those mental meanderings all into proper spoken word is a more daunting task. He has rather strong, pointed goals and speaks of understanding the meaning of compromise. Whether or not that's true or not is something time will tell. That kind of game has never been one with a short, easy resolution. He's one that I'd love to mind-comb over time, and perhaps find a more solid friendship with. Again. We'll see, no?

Written By Acacia

Feb. 11, 2017, 9:25 p.m.(11/26/1005 AR)

Relationship Note on Esera

The ArchDuchess terrified me, but in the best of ways. She possessed a certain aura that's painstakingly hard to define. In all of the times our paths had crossed, she commanded a presence that lingered in your mind, filled up a room, and invited thoughts to freely wander to darker corners. She was one of the only people I've encountered that could force me to hold a breath simply with the cut of her smile. This tragedy left poignant wounds in those who loved her that were left behind, but she created unmistakable memories simply by those who witnessed her. She was an incredible woman. Masterful, really.

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