Written By Samantha
Feb. 28, 2018, 3:28 p.m.(4/11/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Myrinda
She created my gown for a costume ball way-back-when.
I am not much of a fashion plate, but it is the most treasured item in my wardrobe.
I am not much of a fashion plate, but it is the most treasured item in my wardrobe.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 28, 2018, 10:12 a.m.(4/11/1008 AR)
Yesterday I either did something that will be either terribly clever or terribly disastrous for all parties concerned.
Time will tell.
Time will tell.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 22, 2018, 4:18 p.m.(3/27/1008 AR)
I've joined with Cassima Thrax and Sameera Coldain for an upcoming benefit in support of the war effort. They're going to sponsor an auction during the event for relief, while my portion will be a little different.
I'm going to create vouchers in exchange for lessons, which will be available via lottery.
Do you want to get a riding lesson from His Majesty's very own Master of Horses? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with Master Tristan.
Do you want a tutorial on strategy and war tactics, to increase your athletic ability, or experience a sword lesson with a former Lord Commander of the King's Own? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with Marquis Rymarr Deepwood.
Do you want a tutorial on the art and craft of diplomacy? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with me.
And so on, and so forth.
I'm hoping to solicit willingness to offer skills from a wide variety of skills, ranging from military to social to artistic to academic.
Knowledge should always be valued.
I'm going to create vouchers in exchange for lessons, which will be available via lottery.
Do you want to get a riding lesson from His Majesty's very own Master of Horses? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with Master Tristan.
Do you want a tutorial on strategy and war tactics, to increase your athletic ability, or experience a sword lesson with a former Lord Commander of the King's Own? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with Marquis Rymarr Deepwood.
Do you want a tutorial on the art and craft of diplomacy? Bid on a voucher for a lesson with me.
And so on, and so forth.
I'm hoping to solicit willingness to offer skills from a wide variety of skills, ranging from military to social to artistic to academic.
Knowledge should always be valued.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 5, 2018, 8:30 p.m.(2/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Derovai
And because you haven't seen me in the Lowers, that must mean I'm never there, and that I have never actually put my silver where my mouth is.
I could list my accomplishments with regard to the people of Arx, and doing so might address your non-accusation, but it also would make me a braggart. And I would more than likely be accused of what some are taken to calling "but not all nobles".
If you are genuinely curious about who I am, what I'm doing, and what I've done, I'd be happy to have a drink with you at the Murder. And you're still buying.
I could list my accomplishments with regard to the people of Arx, and doing so might address your non-accusation, but it also would make me a braggart. And I would more than likely be accused of what some are taken to calling "but not all nobles".
If you are genuinely curious about who I am, what I'm doing, and what I've done, I'd be happy to have a drink with you at the Murder. And you're still buying.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 5, 2018, 6:19 p.m.(2/15/1008 AR)
There are always going to be people who have a lot, and people who have a little.
It is the responsibility and obligation of the people who have a lot to do what they can to help the people who have a little.
If you have power and are not using it to improve the lives of those around you who have less, you are missing the point.
It is the responsibility and obligation of the people who have a lot to do what they can to help the people who have a little.
If you have power and are not using it to improve the lives of those around you who have less, you are missing the point.
Written By Samantha
Feb. 2, 2018, 10:53 a.m.(2/9/1008 AR)
What is there to be said about Master Bastien's play?
The performances were sharp and witty, tender and comical in turns. The dialogue crackled with cleverness.
It's a brilliant piece of propaganda in that it acheves the playwright's desired purpose, but if subtlty in the motive was present, I couldn't find it. Master Bastien was genuinely distressed when he heard there were nobility who enjoyed the play, and any who walked out or shouted it down seemed to bring a smile to his face.
He's an artistic genius, but I wonder if he will be hobbled by his own agenda.
Also, I'm very confused by the people complaining about all the shouting and catcalling from the audience. Have they never been to the theater before? It's rare that the audience is quiet except during the most intense scenes when everyone's holding their breath to see what happens next.
The performances were sharp and witty, tender and comical in turns. The dialogue crackled with cleverness.
It's a brilliant piece of propaganda in that it acheves the playwright's desired purpose, but if subtlty in the motive was present, I couldn't find it. Master Bastien was genuinely distressed when he heard there were nobility who enjoyed the play, and any who walked out or shouted it down seemed to bring a smile to his face.
He's an artistic genius, but I wonder if he will be hobbled by his own agenda.
Also, I'm very confused by the people complaining about all the shouting and catcalling from the audience. Have they never been to the theater before? It's rare that the audience is quiet except during the most intense scenes when everyone's holding their breath to see what happens next.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 26, 2018, 5:23 p.m.(1/16/1008 AR)
I have it on good authority that I am a daisy.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 26, 2018, 10:37 a.m.(1/15/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Margerie
That sound you hear is me somewhere in the back, clapping. Well said!
Also, in regard to your question...I'd be honored.
Also, in regard to your question...I'd be honored.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 25, 2018, 6:14 p.m.(1/14/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Arianna
My ground is firm. I know what it is to be someone carries multiple duties for various positions and I know a struggle it can be. I see how hard Princess Reese works, and I also see how sincere Prince Ainsley is. The responsibility of being General is considerable, and even if someone other than Ainsley is called to duty, it should not be shouldered on someone with already considerable obligations.
However, I think Mistress Shard has a point about what the Princess might want, though screech protest at Princess Seraphine's remark as to harpies.
And then of course, there is the formidable Lady Sabella's very sound advice.
I commend you on your restraint in listing the alleged abuses by the House of the royal family.
However, I think Mistress Shard has a point about what the Princess might want, though screech protest at Princess Seraphine's remark as to harpies.
And then of course, there is the formidable Lady Sabella's very sound advice.
I commend you on your restraint in listing the alleged abuses by the House of the royal family.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 25, 2018, 5:59 p.m.(1/14/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Arianna
As long as you're already digging the hole, you should defend your point with proof; the examples of "gross negligence" on behalf of House Grayson.
I'm sure your liege Duke would be interested in hearing it. Probably the Inquisition, too.
I'm sure your liege Duke would be interested in hearing it. Probably the Inquisition, too.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 25, 2018, 5:35 p.m.(1/14/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Arianna
Yes, lets reward a princess already bent heavy with her obligations to the Crown and Compact by giving her even more obligation with which to be weighed down. This is unfair to Reese, uncouth in declaration toward a Grayson prince (whether you favor his continued status or not), and unwise in terms of statecraft.
I don't know how many, or if many at all will call for Prince Ainsley to step down, but I do know that when weighing his shortcomings, his accomplishments and his humility must also be considered. And if a decision is made in favor of someone other than him, I would want it to be someone who can shoulder the burden, rather than someone who shines brightest in a different area of the governance of our Compact, and already carries significant duty on her admirable shoulders.
I don't know how many, or if many at all will call for Prince Ainsley to step down, but I do know that when weighing his shortcomings, his accomplishments and his humility must also be considered. And if a decision is made in favor of someone other than him, I would want it to be someone who can shoulder the burden, rather than someone who shines brightest in a different area of the governance of our Compact, and already carries significant duty on her admirable shoulders.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 25, 2018, 12:52 p.m.(1/13/1008 AR)
Thus far, there have been three small print runs of the primer text I've written, The Four Pillars of Diplomacy. The feedback thus far has been quite good, and I hope it has served those who wish to learn from it well.
The principle of the Four Pillars is that in order to build a structure, it requires support, and that is what pillars are for. So what are the pillars?
Empathy. Humility. Risk. Research.
I will continue to offer copies free of charge to any who request it.
The principle of the Four Pillars is that in order to build a structure, it requires support, and that is what pillars are for. So what are the pillars?
Empathy. Humility. Risk. Research.
I will continue to offer copies free of charge to any who request it.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 23, 2018, 10:46 a.m.(1/9/1008 AR)
I have written a book! It is supposed to be a text discussing the basics of diplomacy, but its strongest application in dealing sprecifically with Abandoned tribes and convincing them to join the Compact. I have decided not to charge for it, but rather see that a copy is printed for anyone who desires one. It's my hope, however, that it be considered a solid source of instruction in the art and craft of diplomacy.
It's taken me about a year to write, in between the day-to-day obligations of my life. Lady Aislin had at one time solicited me to write something along its lines for the Explorer's Society on how to approach interaction with non-hostile Prodigal tribes. This isn't quite what she asked for, but I think it would still be helpful. I'll have to ask Princess Lou if I may send a copy to be added to the Explorers Society library.
Oh, yes. It's called The Four Pillars of Diplomacy. The idea being, of course, that diplomacy builds a structure and the principles I promote are what create the solid supports to create it.
It's taken me about a year to write, in between the day-to-day obligations of my life. Lady Aislin had at one time solicited me to write something along its lines for the Explorer's Society on how to approach interaction with non-hostile Prodigal tribes. This isn't quite what she asked for, but I think it would still be helpful. I'll have to ask Princess Lou if I may send a copy to be added to the Explorers Society library.
Oh, yes. It's called The Four Pillars of Diplomacy. The idea being, of course, that diplomacy builds a structure and the principles I promote are what create the solid supports to create it.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 12, 2018, 12:06 p.m.(12/14/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Mae
And it was explicitly pointed out it in the very first words written that I do not judge the entire family by the actions of one man. I just found it interesting that the kinsman of one who chose to align with enemies far more dangerous to the Compact was choosing to point a finger in the direction of those who've far more in balance of what we deem good or evil.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 12, 2018, 11:22 a.m.(12/14/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Nierzen
While I don't judge the family by the actions of one man, it amuses me that Master Nierzen has chosen this hill to die upon, considering the fact that one of his kinsmen was (and presumably still is) a Rex'alfar agent devoted to destroying the Compact.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 6, 2018, 10:03 p.m.(12/2/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Tristan
Dibs.
Just saying.
Just saying.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 4, 2018, 12:28 a.m.(11/24/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Caspian
I think I've become a fan.
Written By Samantha
Jan. 2, 2018, 12:13 p.m.(11/19/1007 AR)
I was the daughter of a servant and an unknown father, but am accorded the designation of "silk". While there certainly are nobles who care little beyond what they're going to wear at the next party, there are also nobles who understand that the privilege of their birth accords them the responsibility of caring for their people.
While I am not a frequent visitor to the salon, I have gone there. There are times, even in the most dire circumstances, folk of any class need to take a moment to breathe, to talk of inconsequential things, and to push the dark aside. It doesn't mean that they're ignoring the trials that lay ahead of them. Even in the midst of terrible wars, soldiers, when given the opportunity, take time out for the little things in life.
So quite frankly, anybody sitting in the Ambassador Salon discussing hair color is A) not involved in the decision making anyway and keeping out of the way of the folk who are, or B) spending a little bit of time relaxing and talking about hair color after hours or even days of research, planning, being involved, or otherwise supporting the efforts of others.
I have no patience for the useless. I have even less for the judgemental. And while it would be easy for me to assume that all they do is choose to point fingers, I will not do so. Instead I will ask: what is it YOU are doing to help the Compact?
While I am not a frequent visitor to the salon, I have gone there. There are times, even in the most dire circumstances, folk of any class need to take a moment to breathe, to talk of inconsequential things, and to push the dark aside. It doesn't mean that they're ignoring the trials that lay ahead of them. Even in the midst of terrible wars, soldiers, when given the opportunity, take time out for the little things in life.
So quite frankly, anybody sitting in the Ambassador Salon discussing hair color is A) not involved in the decision making anyway and keeping out of the way of the folk who are, or B) spending a little bit of time relaxing and talking about hair color after hours or even days of research, planning, being involved, or otherwise supporting the efforts of others.
I have no patience for the useless. I have even less for the judgemental. And while it would be easy for me to assume that all they do is choose to point fingers, I will not do so. Instead I will ask: what is it YOU are doing to help the Compact?
Written By Samantha
Dec. 26, 2017, 6:42 p.m.(11/6/1007 AR)
As the wife of a former commander of the King's Own, I have this inexplicable feeling that now and again I ought to show up at the Tower with baked goods.
Written By Samantha
Dec. 22, 2017, 10:17 a.m.(10/25/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Killian
When I was young - well, younger - I spent a great deal of time at Pridehall. I was raised alongside Michael and Lailah as their sister, and Crownlands noble children were often sent there for fostering and squiredom. As one might expect, a little group formed made up of those who clustered in the same age group.
Myself, Barric, Dawn, Ainsley, Michael, with Lailah frequently tagging along and the boys at least constantly telling her that she was too young. Killian was there, too. But Killian was a quiet young man who preferred his own company, and frequently spent time outside alone. He was welcome, but he was solitary.
Despite this distance, we were in each other's circles as children. I've observed him over the years, seen him become a remarkable man. Admired his touch with his beautiful owl, appreciated his wit and skill as a warrior.
And he will be missed. He is a piece of my childhood now adrift, but I have no doubt that the Queen of Endings welcomed him tenderly, and that Gloria will see him blessed when his soul returns to this existence.
Myself, Barric, Dawn, Ainsley, Michael, with Lailah frequently tagging along and the boys at least constantly telling her that she was too young. Killian was there, too. But Killian was a quiet young man who preferred his own company, and frequently spent time outside alone. He was welcome, but he was solitary.
Despite this distance, we were in each other's circles as children. I've observed him over the years, seen him become a remarkable man. Admired his touch with his beautiful owl, appreciated his wit and skill as a warrior.
And he will be missed. He is a piece of my childhood now adrift, but I have no doubt that the Queen of Endings welcomed him tenderly, and that Gloria will see him blessed when his soul returns to this existence.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.