Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:12 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
I originally met Mistress Joscelin Arterius at the market day hosted by Lady Dawn. I remember her jewelry, although we barely crossed a word that day. It was very busy. More recently I had a chance to share a drink with her. I found her to be entertaining, and capable of some keen insights. She seems to be a fan of Acacia, which is rather cute, I must say. I'm curious to see how she presents herself in future meetings.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:06 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Anastasio
Master Anastasio Belari is a herbalist and a healer, and one that I've heard a few good things about. I finally had a chance to meet him, and if there's anything that impressed me about him is his honesty. He is pretty straightforward, which is something I can appreciate it and reminds me some of the soldiers I used to fight alongside with back home. He is seeking to open a shop, and I am considering helping him with it.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 11, 2016, 11:04 p.m.(7/19/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Benjamin
Master Carver, I met him while at the Ambassador Salon. I was enjoying a drink with my protege and she had mentioned his name to me. She decided to invite him over. It was certainly a good decision. The man is interesting, and he does remind of Acacia, in a very strange way. He apparently is a good a surgeon, as he is a cook. I'll have to get him to cook something I can try sometime, and perhaps I'll reach out to him after the next time I spar.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 4, 2016, 10 p.m.(6/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Ophelia
Ah, my dearest of nieces. Ophelia is certainly very dear to me. She has a sense of humor, that is so clever. True, most of the times I'm not sure if she realizes she's being humorous and that is perhaps part of her charm. She reminds me that even during my most serious moments, there is room to take the time and make a dear niece happy, sometimes with the simplest of things. Sometimes, with the strangest of things, but usually with little effort on my part. Her devotion to her brother is admirable, and while I once thought it misplaced, I don't think that's the case anymore.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 4, 2016, 9:40 p.m.(6/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Luca
When Luca first arrived to Arx, I wasn't sure if well, it would work out for him. I wasn't impressed, at all. And until recently, I continued to have doubts about how well he would do here in this city. Not many people prove me wrong, but Prince Luca has. It seems that the devotion his sister shows for him is warranted. The man proved himself during the Grand Melee, winning the battle for House Velenosa, and doing so with a very peculiar approach to his defense. With the proper guidance and direction, but really incentives, I think the prince might achieve great things.
Written By Niccolo
Sept. 4, 2016, 9:16 p.m.(6/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Kima
Of course, I've ran into Lady Kima before. But it wasn't until recently that I had a chance to sit down with her and really talk. I was curious how she was going to react after I interrupted her during the fight at the Hollow. And while I can't say I was surprised by her, I admit I was impressed. That doesn't happen often. Our conversation left me with a good impression of the woman, and I'm looking forward to when we get a chance to speak again.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 29, 2016, 12:21 a.m.(6/5/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jacinthe
I received a letter from Jacinthe, that she is leaving Arx for some time. She didn't give me details, but I'm not surprised to see that she's pursuing opportunities out of the city. She always struck me as being very ambitious. Perhaps one day she'll return, and we'll get to share a drink together again.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 28, 2016, 12:53 a.m.(6/2/1004 AR)
Most people think of wine when they think of the drink of choice in the Lyceum, but while the people of the south certainly prefer it, they do indulge in the imbibing of all sorts of spirits and liquors. So when it came to planning the tasting, it felt right to ensure all manners of liquor were included. I have to first commend the efforts of my protege Acacia Culler, for without her I don't know that things would have gone as smoothly as they did. My daughter Isolde opened the event with some very heartfelt words, an invitation blessed by the Divine to enjoy ourselves. These are troubling times, but she's certainly right, the people need that reminder that even during difficult times, we must find enjoyment in our lives. The moment we stop doing so, I fear we will find ourselves lost.
It was interesting to see how an evening of drinking brings people of all walks of life together, from high lords to guards, to denizens of the lower boroughs. I was grateful to see Lady Dawn, Prince Darren, and Prince Edain present and taking time to spend with the people. I was touched by the support of fellow Lycene in the likes of Lord Eos, Lord Prospero and Lady Calista. I hadn't seen Lady Lydia in sometime, and her taking the time to show up was certainly noticed. Of course, my ward Talen made an appearance, and even a guard such as Sir Silas Mercier, known for his dislike of whiskey decided to participate.
I'm sure Her Grace, my daughter, will be thrilled to know that one of the vintages personally chosen by her was favored, but as the hosts, it didn't feel right for House Velenosa to claim our placement. Others were kind enough to participate, and they deserved the recognition for it.
My thoughts are often dark, these are after all and as I've mentioned dark times. But today, today I found myself relaxing. Today, I enjoyed myself in a way I don't often do. That was a wonderful gift I was given, and I think one that we managed to share with the people of the city. Slowly but surely, I can see us enduring this journey the people of the Compact find themselves in, just to emerge stronger and more alive when all is said and done.
Acacia named the tasting the People's Choice, and the people chose House Grayson. It was a curious and thought provoking choice. Theirs was certainly a very good liquor, deserving of the vote. The people also seemed interested in seeing this tasting happening again. Perhaps we can turn it into a seasonal event. I am proud of what we accomplished, and as my dear Isolde alluded, I feel that by celebrating our differences we honored the strength and unity of the Compact.
It was interesting to see how an evening of drinking brings people of all walks of life together, from high lords to guards, to denizens of the lower boroughs. I was grateful to see Lady Dawn, Prince Darren, and Prince Edain present and taking time to spend with the people. I was touched by the support of fellow Lycene in the likes of Lord Eos, Lord Prospero and Lady Calista. I hadn't seen Lady Lydia in sometime, and her taking the time to show up was certainly noticed. Of course, my ward Talen made an appearance, and even a guard such as Sir Silas Mercier, known for his dislike of whiskey decided to participate.
I'm sure Her Grace, my daughter, will be thrilled to know that one of the vintages personally chosen by her was favored, but as the hosts, it didn't feel right for House Velenosa to claim our placement. Others were kind enough to participate, and they deserved the recognition for it.
My thoughts are often dark, these are after all and as I've mentioned dark times. But today, today I found myself relaxing. Today, I enjoyed myself in a way I don't often do. That was a wonderful gift I was given, and I think one that we managed to share with the people of the city. Slowly but surely, I can see us enduring this journey the people of the Compact find themselves in, just to emerge stronger and more alive when all is said and done.
Acacia named the tasting the People's Choice, and the people chose House Grayson. It was a curious and thought provoking choice. Theirs was certainly a very good liquor, deserving of the vote. The people also seemed interested in seeing this tasting happening again. Perhaps we can turn it into a seasonal event. I am proud of what we accomplished, and as my dear Isolde alluded, I feel that by celebrating our differences we honored the strength and unity of the Compact.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 25, 2016, 5:25 p.m.(5/23/1004 AR)
It isn't often that I find myself sharing bits and pieces of my life with others. I've told the story of my first command before, though, or some of it. I did so in the market of all places, to a warrior that asked me about the first time I was blooded. The first time I had killed an enemy. But recently, I completed that story, and in doing so was made to face some old bitter memories, and remember some long gone friends.
Most men,and women, eschew failure. Most measure success as the lack of it, the absence of failure in a life where everything we do is a step in our march to strive for success. Yet I've often found that failure is a required aspect of growth. And without growth, stagnation can often take root. We grow complacent, reassure in our current status and find ourselves risking our ability to become something better, something more.
I've failed. I've failed often.I failed those that I allowed to die during my first command, so many years ago. I was but a boy, but that failure isn't any less real because of it. That failure was painful. The loss of a good friend due to this failure years after even, was painful. The failure to prevent my wife's death... was perhaps the most pain I've felt in all the years of my life. I failed her. There is no other way around that fact. I failed her and until I find out the truth, until I bring those that did this to me, to my family, to task, this failure will continue to haunt me.
I'm no stranger to pain, but I'm no slave to it. I'm no stranger to failure, but I'm not ruled by it. I will accept my failure and learn from it, grow from it. I will find out the truth, and I will bring that truth to light, regardless of the paths I'll have to walk. Then those that hurt my family will come to understand what it truly means to fail.
Most men,and women, eschew failure. Most measure success as the lack of it, the absence of failure in a life where everything we do is a step in our march to strive for success. Yet I've often found that failure is a required aspect of growth. And without growth, stagnation can often take root. We grow complacent, reassure in our current status and find ourselves risking our ability to become something better, something more.
I've failed. I've failed often.I failed those that I allowed to die during my first command, so many years ago. I was but a boy, but that failure isn't any less real because of it. That failure was painful. The loss of a good friend due to this failure years after even, was painful. The failure to prevent my wife's death... was perhaps the most pain I've felt in all the years of my life. I failed her. There is no other way around that fact. I failed her and until I find out the truth, until I bring those that did this to me, to my family, to task, this failure will continue to haunt me.
I'm no stranger to pain, but I'm no slave to it. I'm no stranger to failure, but I'm not ruled by it. I will accept my failure and learn from it, grow from it. I will find out the truth, and I will bring that truth to light, regardless of the paths I'll have to walk. Then those that hurt my family will come to understand what it truly means to fail.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 21, 2016, 12:36 a.m.(5/9/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
The man can build furniture. He also did a good job with putting together a game night at Traders Tavern. He was very useful during the hunt as well. As long as the man continues accumulating good marks, I'll continue to watch him. He seems like a useful fellow to to know among the Iron Guard.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 20, 2016, 10:20 p.m.(5/9/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Dawn
Lady Dawn of House Grayson. I was curious about what kind of woman would rise as she has. She is the Voice of her house, and I believe I can see why she's been given this honor. I had no expectations of the woman, but after our first meeting, I was left with image of a strong, diplomatic individual. One that rather than eschew advice from others, welcomes it, and is willing to listen when others have been far too quick to close themselves to it. She is pleasant company, and I look forward to see what she'll accomplish in the name of Grayson.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 12, 2016, 4 p.m.(4/12/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Acacia
I still remember how Acacia and I met. How she created an opportunity for us to run into each other. I remember our first conversation. I always knew Acacia showed promise, but she has delivered on that promise tenfold.She's as active in her pursuit of her goals as I had hoped, and she's proved to be a valuable protege, worthy of the attention I've given her. She remains as bold and brazen as ever, but there is a perfect understanding between us of where the professional lines are. I appreciate her ability to distinguish between business and personal, and her willingness to make the first a priority.
I've grown fond of her, I admit. She is very special, and she will achieve great things if so she wishes and I intend to help her do such a thing.
I've grown fond of her, I admit. She is very special, and she will achieve great things if so she wishes and I intend to help her do such a thing.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 7, 2016, 1:24 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jacinthe
Mistress Jacinthe Whisper approached me asking to speak to me about an event the Whisper House will hold honoring known heroes. She wanted to speak to me about my late wife. I was both surprised and impressed by the empathy displayed by this young woman, and the conversation went well. Going forward, she could become a useful contact within the Whisper House.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 7, 2016, 1:21 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Enzo
Master Enzo is a jeweler of notable skill. He's taken care of at least one commission for me, and I was quite pleased with the work. He's asked me to become his patron and after some consideration, I agreed to it. Our business relationship is very clear, in return for my support and the occasional financial assistance if need be, he gives me priority in my orders that I place with him.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 7, 2016, 1:19 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Gareth
What can I say about Prince Gareth Grayson? The man is either a genius, or an idiot and to be fair I'm not sure which it is. He thinks very high of himself, his position as Inquisitor, and House Grayson. Confidence in a man is a trait I certainly admire and respect, but what I can't condone is his complete and utter understanding of proper noble behavior. There is a distinct lack of dignity in how he treats his peers, and it's a shame, because it is really unnecessary. With a few adjustments, Prince Gareth could be a great man, unfortunately he might end remembered more for being a bitter one.
Written By Niccolo
Aug. 7, 2016, 1:13 a.m.(3/23/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Freja
I've yet to get to know the princess, but the few times we've crossed paths have been memorable. She's shown kindness to my protege, Acacia, something I certainly appreciate. She's spoke up when someone sought to disrespect me in her home, and in doing so spared me the having to deal with it myself. I would like to get to know her, understand her. She could be a great ally to have in House Redrain.
Written By Niccolo
July 31, 2016, 10:49 p.m.(3/5/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Edain
His father would be proud of his fighting prowess. I don't know His Grace well, but he seems like a honorable man, that perhaps could use a night or two out in the Lyceum. When it comes to battle, however, he is a true warrior. I faced him in a Rite of Gloria, where we were very evenly match, and yet I was forced to yield in the end. I feel no shame in having done so either, Edain's skill is without question.
Written By Niccolo
July 25, 2016, 3:48 p.m.(2/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jaenelle
Princess Jaenelle was married to my now late son, and I have to admit I don't know as much of her as I should. She is sweet from what I've seen, and eager to feel and be useful. These are traits I can respect, and as Her Grace has allowed her to stay in the family, I have no opposition to it. I would like to get to know her better, and I have every intention to do just as much.
Written By Niccolo
July 25, 2016, 3:05 p.m.(2/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Nadia
Nadia has made some questionable decisions as of late, and I'm not entirely sure why. It isn't something she can't recover from, but it does show that she is still pretty much a young woman, with a lot to learn about how politics work in Arx. If she'll recover or not, will be entirely up to her and the city will be watching, of course.
Written By Niccolo
July 25, 2016, 1:37 p.m.(2/14/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Esera
My pride and joy is certainly growing up. She's taken to leading House Velenosa as easily as it came to her mother, and it has been very rewarding to see. While she displays the markings of a great leader, I worry sometimes that it will become too much as time goes on. What will happen when I'm not around to support her? Perhaps that is very arrogant for me to consider, but still. I've called for interest in a tournament that might help find her the dutiful partner she needs. We will see what comes out of it.
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