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Written By Mae

March 6, 2018, 11:28 p.m.(4/24/1008 AR)

My painting "Making Advances" - featuring a rather spectacular duel between Caspian Wild and Prince Luca Grayson - has finally been delivered to it's new owner. I've passed a sizable amount of the silver from the sale to the Champion Caspian Wild, to pass on to the Champion's Guild (and to keep a bit for himself). It is my hope that all the Champions are well paid, even if they do not get selected for such high profile duels.

Written By Mae

March 5, 2018, 8:19 p.m.(4/22/1008 AR)

I am very happy to announce I have taken Laric Grayson, Master of Questions and Prince of Grayson, as my patron.

The Master of Questions has proven to have a good eye for art and a very accepting taste. I also believe he'll be supportive of me - in encouraging me, in defending my works, in tracking down art thieves. I do hope I'll be able to patronize Laric for years to come.

Or is he patronizing me?

Written By Mae

March 1, 2018, 2:02 p.m.(4/13/1008 AR)

My latest painting is finished! It might be the most base thing I've painted, but I am very happy with it.

For those that read my journals: It is not dark, or disturbing, or even particularly meaningful. It is a celebration of the Champions, of dueling, and (most importantly) of the male form.

It's hanging at the Murder of Crows, in the front room. And it's for sale.

Written By Mae

Feb. 27, 2018, 3:58 p.m.(4/9/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Eirene

Just think, some people have died a dozen times and still don't quite understand.

Written By Mae

Feb. 26, 2018, 8:59 p.m.(4/8/1008 AR)

"What would you do, if you weren't afraid?"

Be dead.

Written By Mae

Feb. 26, 2018, 11:42 a.m.(4/7/1008 AR)

Commoners Bulletin V2N6 - 04/06/1008 AR (02/25/2018)

The Commoners Bulletin is a condensed version of the news, happenings, and proclamations given out in the past fortnight! If you have news to include in the bulletin, or you believe I've missed something, please send word! (OOC: Using mail is good!)
-Mae Grayhope, Commoners Council

NEWS:

*Through the fog and foul weather that’s fallen upon Darkwater Watch, word has gotten back to the Compact that the lighthouse remains lit. The Watch still holds!

*Lord Tobias oversaw the return of a number of dead soldiers of the Crimson Blade’s Ruby Company to Arx, for return to family and burial. I will confirm the rumor that these men and women’s death were particularly gruesome. The dead have been laid to rest, and a memorial wall built in their honor. For additional information, seek out Lord Tobias or Lieutenant Violet Marjawn.

*Princess Isolde has come through on her promise to donate the presents from her wedding. Half of the gifts (the donations, etc) have went to the Lyceum, and helping orphans and orphanages there. The other half has been set aside for future charity work that might be needed.


PROCLAMATIONS:

*Princess Sorrel Thrax has been appointed Minister of Productivity of Thrax.
*The Crown Court of Arx weighed in on the matter of Esra Nameless and his death at the hands of Costas Voducce: the Court has decided it has no opinion.
*Duchess Calypso has formally announced that the title of Sword has been given up by Costas Voduccee. The duchess is hopeful that Costas will learn and grow from this time in penance. The duchess also took to the white journals to let the Compact know that she “can think of no changes I would have made in the past three years.” But were we all so perfect.
*Prince Rook, Crown Minister of Coin, announced that in this time of hardship the Crown is increasing taxes on its vassals - which are the five great houses. Shocking, maybe, but I’m told the taxes are increasing to the same level that the great houses charge their own vassals - one thirteenth.
*Countess Reigna Keaton has assumed the mantle of Guildmaster of the Physicians Guild.
*Lord Marcos Saik has been named General for the Saik army and Voice of House Saik.
*Lady Elsbetta Farshaw and Lord Alban Farshaw have been appointed Voices of House Farshaw.
*Lord Ignacio Fidante has been named Voice of House Fidante.
*Prince Galen Thrax has been named Warlord of House Thrax. The Hero known as Magpie Grayhope, who is best known for marrying well, has been named as Thrax’s chief supply officer. (I can confirm he married well. Magpie is my husband.)
*Lord Tomwell Leary has been named Minister of Loyalty for House Leary.
*Prince Edain Valardin and Princess Consort Caelis have announced the birth of their son, Prince Samuel Valardin, Heir of Sanctum. May this surely beautiful child enjoy the blessings of the Queen of Endings and all the Gods of the Pantheon, and the support of the entire Compact.
*Baroness Skye Blackshore has been appointed to the position of Minister of Infrastructure for House Thrax.
*Prince Jericho Valardin has married Lady Eirlys Greenmarch, who is henceforth known as Princess Eirlys Valardin. Princess Eirlys has embraced the Faith of the Pantheon. May the Gods embrace her and this union! As another Greenmarch leaves the Prodigal family, one can’t help but wonder if there will be any Greenmarchers left in another year!
*Prince Jacque Valardin has married Marquessa Demura Lyonesse and will now be called Marquis-Consort Jacque Lyonesse. May the Gods bless this union, and may we see lots of babies!
*Princess Sasha Valardin has wed Marquis Cirroch Sanna and shall now be known as Marquessa-Consort Sasha Sanna. May the Gods also bless this union, and may we see lots of babies!
*Princess Tikva gave birth to Prince Asharion Grayson. May this young Prince knows all his blessings, and have the full support of the Gods and the Compact. I’ll ask everyone send their their good wishes and blessings to Princess Tikva, and their sympathy to the father, poor Prince Ainsley. The poor, poor man surely spent the whole ordeal trying to figure out how to fight labor pains in honorable combat.
*Prince Rook has accepted Princess Alarissa’s challenge, in the form of a joust! The challenge is over whose armor is more lovely, and, fittingly, the winner of this challenge will collect the armor of the loser.

Written By Mae

Feb. 22, 2018, 12:40 a.m.(3/26/1008 AR)

I've completed my latest painting. Suppose I ought to hurry up and pick to patron, so I can work on getting a space to display this stuff.

Next up, a much less disturbing painting. Should be quick to get done and sell off.

Written By Mae

Feb. 18, 2018, 11:15 p.m.(3/20/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Jhond

Don't ever doubt yourself. You can be anything you want to be!

Written By Mae

Feb. 18, 2018, 12:56 a.m.(3/18/1008 AR)

Commoners Bulletin V2N5 - 03/18/1008 AR (02/17/2018)

The Commoners Bulletin is a condensed version of the news, happenings, and proclamations given out in the past fortnight! If you have news to include in the bulletin, or you believe I've missed something, please send word! (OOC: Using mail is good!)
-Mae Grayhope, Commoners Council

NEWS:

*The forces of the Compact are rallying! I hear it's a larger force turning up than anyone expected. This is great news.

*Word has also spread that Darkwater Watch has been evacuated. That's a good thing! But, I've heard weather has been particularly bad near Darkwater Watch and it's been hard getting messages in and out of the county. Let us all pray that the weather settles.

*The Faith has increased their charity efforts, supporting education in the Compact, providing food and clothing to the poor, and opening a memorial farm which will donate fresh food to the Lowers.

*Esra Nameless, formerly Esra Wyrmguard before his denoblement, has been killed. As stated by High Inquisitor Alistair Velenosa, Costas Voducce attempted to apprehend Esra. In the process of this apprehension, Esra drew blade and was killed. To quote the High Inquisitor: "Both Costas Voducce and House Malvici recognize the error of what occurred, and in honor of the concept of Justice have agreed to pay the necessary fines to the Crown and a donation to the Scholars of Vellichor and to seek penance before Sentinel to be announced by Legate Orazio."

*High Inquisitor Alistair Velenosa has also announced any record of Esra's words will be confiscated.

*Costas Voducce has begun his penance with the Faith. Father Orazio has explained the details to me, saying, "The terms of the penance are to voluntarily give up the position and blade of the House Sword for a period of no less than thirteen weeks, and to spend each week reflecting on his actions and life and the virtues of a different god, and recording those observations in his white journals. Those journals will be reviewed by me, and if I am not satisfied that penance will be achieved, another thirteen weeks will be assigned."

*The Commoners Council is in the process of seeking more information from all parties involved in this situation.

*Posters appeared around town, objecting to the entire situation surrounding Esra's demise, and questioning that justice had been done. Father Orazio invited anyone who wishes to discuss justice to go speak to him.

*In lighter news, the Murder of Crows hosted its third Darts and Drinking contest! Princess Reese Grayson claimed victory at darts and Dame Felicia at drinking.

*Count Turo Navegant supposedly had a very bad sailing expedition. You have two newborn children, Count! Don't go on crazy missions!

*Rumor is Lady Arianna Stonewood is trying to make amends for her previous uncouth actions. Forgiveness should be given to any that truly seek it! And remember, she's still young. Let's hope this is a good change for Lady Arianna.

*More rumors spread in the wake of Princess Isolde marrying Prince Alistair. The Peerage is upset! The man was a Prodigal Inquisitor, now a Lycene prince! Sounds very Lycene to me. Which might exactly be the problem!

*Baron Edward became a brief topic of conversation. He has an illegitimate child! Though he's taken responsibility for the child, I can't help but wonder if he'll be ennobled. And will Marshall's mother, Alarie Harall?


PROCLAMATIONS:

*The Master of Questions, Laric Grayson, has announced that the old morgue has been rediscovered. Apparently the doorway had been blocked some time ago! The morgue will be used for temporarily storing bodies until they can be properly laid to rest. Questions? Write Prince Laric Grayson!
*Count Turo Navegant and Countess Consort Arcelia Navegant have given birth to twins! Please join me in welcoming Lady Davina and Lord Kaax. I think that's about the hundredth set of twins born this year!
*King Alaric named High Lord Victus Thrax as the Grand Admiral of the combined fleet of the Compact. Gods bless Grand Admiral Victus in this upcoming war!
*Archlector Aureth announced a contest: The Faith is seeking out Passion Plays in honor of the rediscovered Gods: Death, First Choice, and Aion. Any that want more information should write Archlector Aureth.
*Sparte Fatchforth announced a series of debates to be held on behalf of The Salon. The topics vary. Write Sparte at the Iron Guard barracks for more information.
*In the world of challenges... Princess Tikva Grayson challenged Princess Cadenza Velenosa, for stealing an idea of hers. Princess Cadenza agreed to the duel, with an added "I'm sorry you feel that way". Prince Luca Grayson will be fighting on behalf of Princess Tikva, and Caspian Wild on behalf of Princess Cadenza.
*Archlector Aleksei challenged Magpie Grayhope, for proof that Archlector Aureth is Aleksei's best friend, and not Magpie's. Take note, people! Aleksei is certain people can only have one best friend. Magpie accepted the duel, and Prince Luca Grayson will be fighting on behalf of Aleksei, and Caspian Wild on behalf of Magpie. Rumor is there will be oil involved.
*Master of Questions Laric Grayson challenged a guy called Skald to a duel, over papercuts. Skald has accepted. I have no further details.
*Princess Consort Alarissa Thrax challenged Prince Rook Valardin to a duel, over who has the prettiest armor. I have not seen a response from Prince Rook.
*Dame Thena Grayhope and Lieutenant Calaudrin Estardes challenged each other to something for some reason. I think the matter is resolved.

Written By Mae

Feb. 15, 2018, 10:37 p.m.(3/14/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Magpie

He came in and smeared my palette! I spent an HOUR getting that blue right and he just smeared it right into the gray! Had we not been in a place to sacred and lovely the Iron Guard might have been investigating a stabbing.

Written By Mae

Feb. 14, 2018, 6:31 p.m.(3/5/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Itzal

Getting a pet seems like a mighty big responsibility for you. Are you sure you wouldn't be better off just finding someone to take you in as their pet? I'm sure there's plenty of people in the city that would feed and walk you regularly.

Written By Mae

Feb. 13, 2018, 6:37 p.m.(3/3/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Fairen

For a man once challenged for his poor manners I find it a bit comical that you'd talk of needing to reform education. All but calling us wee commoners dumb.

My posting, about Duke Harlan, was about his previous words. Or do you not remember when you, yourself, wrote about flowers? Though, you didn't understand what it was about then, either.

Odd that a scholar like yourself would struggle with these things. Or, wait, were you hoping to reform education so you yourself could take some lessons?

The words to be remembered are that Harlan referred to women as objects, pretty, fragrant, or useful, and in attempting to correct it, only sounded more awful.

Or, as Marquis Mydas wrote, "Cousin, I doubt you'll be able to save a metaphor that compares the women of this city to something easily plucked from the ground or trampled underfoot."

Or, as Lord Jael wrote, "I don’t think you’re making the argument you think you’re making."

Or, as Lady Margerie wrote, "The women of this city, be they noble or common, be they unmarried or not, are not flowers to decorate some noble's hall or chamber."

Though I think I prefer Lord Archeron's words best: "That was a very creepy way to put it, Cousin."

Written By Mae

Feb. 13, 2018, 6:16 p.m.(3/3/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Cara

In an earlier white reflection, Duke Harlan lamented how walking through the throngs of beautiful, unmarried women in this city was like walking through a field of flowers. He must not pluck just the most beautiful and aromatic flowers, he must pluck the flower that's useful to him.

In defense of his own words, he continued to point out that we women folk were not just beautiful and fragrant, but we also could be useful for our practical skills.

I had hoped that the duke's words would be properly remembered, when he did find his "flower". Now we see him lamenting over marriage again, and the difficulties in selecting an arrangement. I'm merely making sure the duke's words are remembered.

Perhaps you ought to write Duke Harlan to aid him through his difficulties?

Written By Mae

Feb. 13, 2018, 4:34 p.m.(3/3/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Harlan

Do you mean, Duke Harlan, it's easier to have an arranged marriage than to choose which pretty, useful flower you wish to pluck from the bed of flowers that is the pool of noblewomen in the Compact?

Or is it that the flowers read your words and now do not wish to be plucked?

Written By Mae

Feb. 12, 2018, 11:57 p.m.(3/2/1008 AR)

Murder of Crows Darts and Drinking Contest - Winter '08

Princess Reese Grayson claimed victory in the darts tournament over High Lord Victus Thrax, with a score of 155 to 97. The high score of the night came from Princess Reese in an earlier round at 211.

In the drinking contest, Dame Felicia put down 7 shots (5 rounds) of Dame Cornelia's Cinnamon Curse. She was awarded an ultra rare, limited edition, highly collectible Highway Robbery figurine!

Written By Mae

Feb. 8, 2018, 11:54 p.m.(2/22/1008 AR)

After a particularly revealing set of conversations, I've decided to seek out a patron. What do I do that can't be made better by the support of a noble?

I've also decided I'll start taking commissions soon. That means I need to start thinking about prices. How much will someone pay for a Mae Grayhope original? I think I'll ask for a LOT of silver. That way I don't actually get any commissions and don't actually have to work. And if someone is willing to pay? I'll be that much closer to opening a second soup kitchen.

Written By Mae

Feb. 8, 2018, 5:23 p.m.(2/21/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Itzal

Dear future scholars,

Today my bratty little brother claimed to be someone. I'd like the official record to show that it's not true. He's still an itsy bitsy baby and nothing more!

Sincerely,
Mae

Written By Mae

Feb. 5, 2018, 11:52 p.m.(2/16/1008 AR)

(To whom it may concern: This should have been posted days ago! I forgot to add a copy to the whites. My apologies. -Mae)

Commoners Bulletin V2N3 - 02/12/1008 AR (02/03/2018)

The Commoners Bulletin is a condensed version of the news, happenings, and proclamations given out in the past fortnight! If you have news to include in the bulletin, or you believe I've missed something, please send word! (OOC: Using mail is good!)
-Mae Grayhope, Commoners Council

NEWS:
*Someone vandalized the Reading Room in the Vellichorian Academy, tossing red paint everywhere and leaving a stack of children's toys. If anyone has any information, send it along to Archscholar Bianca.

*The situation in Kennex has continued to improve! The whole Kennex family seems to have come together to support the Marquis and Marquessa. Allies have come to aid as well, including the Grim Duke's own son! Well done, House Kennex.

*News has reached Arx of an expedition of the Inquisition - apparently a group went to Stonehearth and smashed some petrified trees? Stonehearth is the home of the Stonewood Family. The Master of Questions has released a statement explaining that cultists had taken up within the grove, and the Inquisition had moved in to stop some nasty murders they had performed. If anyone has information, please send it to Master of Questions Laric! (Though, also, I think Laric just hates trees, petrified or otherwise.)

*A new play opened at the Blackrose Theater. Titled 'Besieged, a Play in Three Acts', it features a group of commoners sharing their lives during the siege of Arx. While I'll not spoil the play itself, I will say it is critical of the nobility. And, as lovely as the show was, the highlight of the premiere was likely Lord Darrow's tone-deaf and borish claim that, in my words, lots of people die so commoners should stop complaining. Fortunately, more than a few nobles were as appalled by the man's comments as everyone else was, and stepped up to tell him how wrong he was.

*House Grayson hosted a 'rally and free-for-all'. Surely this was designed to show unity in the family, and I am told there was, indeed, unity! There was a marching contest, which Prince Ainsley won, but he was a host so that didn't count, meaning Lady Margerie won! There was a pie-dodging contest, and Archlector Aleksei Morgan won that. And in the free-for-all, Prince Luca the Gorgeous and Lazy won! No lazy in all ways, clearly. Prizes included stygian and diamondplate. I am suddenly sad I didn't go and beat Blessed Aleksei.

*Sir Daemon Dracone has been seen all over the Lowers doing charitable work. I can confirm I've seen the man and his good deeds. Keep it up, Sir Daemon!

*Blessed Roran, Archlector of Lagoma, has returned to Arx after a lengthy tour of the Shrines throughout the Compact. Cats everywhere in the city rejoice. No, I don't know why. And get your mind out of the gutter, Joscelin.

PROCLAMATIONS:
*Lady Arianna Stonewood resigned as Voice of her house.
*The brilliant and capable Dame Eleanor Allenatore was promoted to First Captain of the King's Own. I am ever more certain the King and Queen and their beautiful children are in good hands.
*What's been happening in Greenmarch? I know we're all curious! This week we have both a resignation of a Voice and an appointing of a formerly resigned voice! Prince Fiachra Valardin is out! Lady Monique Telmar is back in! I heard a rumor that folks are starting to place bets on the next change.
*Princess Cassima Thrax was promoted to Minister of Finance and Income of House Thrax. Her duties include managing the coffers, ensuring vassal houses are paying their taxes, and stopping High Lord Victus from buying more expensive cat toys.
*Prince Aurelian Valardin and Marquessa Quenia Igniseri are courting. That means that in a while, if they still can stand each other, they'll get married!
*Prince Aiden Grayson and Princess Cadenza Velenosa have been named First Seekers of the Society of Explorers. That means they'll be Voices, and speak with Princess Lou Grayson's authority on matters of the Society. Which, did you all know, it's actually really hard to get into the Society of Explorers? I'm not kidding, it's tough.
*Princess Isolde Velenosa announced that, in lieu of wedding gifts, she'll be collecting money to help children in the Lyceum. This will be done via a raffle. How fun!

Written By Mae

Feb. 4, 2018, 10:52 p.m.(2/14/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Alarissa

Twelve point is how they score the buck. The bigger and better, the higher the points. I think it goes to twenty.

Also, my husband has never brought me any dead things that weren't meant to be put in a pot and cooked. I mean, he did make that squirrel couch that still gives me nightmares, time to time, but he didn't bring that to me.

I wish you the best of luck mounting High Lord Victus.

Written By Mae

Feb. 2, 2018, 4 p.m.(2/9/1008 AR)

Relationship Note on Joscelin

If you're not hollering at them, how do they know you're not asleep?

If you can't hear them over the hollering, we should all wonder who taught them how to project their voice?

If you don't cat-call Jareth, he'll start to question his ability as an actor. Are you trying to hurt people's feelings?

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