Written By Acacia
Feb. 11, 2017, 12:59 p.m.(11/26/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Ida
Dame Ida remains, and ever will be, my favorite smith in all of Arx. There's no one who I favor more to craft the weapons I desire and really, one can never have too many. She's also my perpetual go-to for experimental whiskey, spontaneous betting, ever-revolving discourse and quite simply, unerring friendship. That was always a hard word for me, but she makes it so bloody easy. I'd say I'd want to bleed anyone who does her wrong, but it isn't like she needs it. Well. Honestly, I'd probably want to bleed them anyways. She recently completed yet another commission for me. It was last-minute and fanciful, but she nailed exactly what I was looking for, as ever. Thank the Gods she doesn't punch her friends in greeting, because I hope to see her often.
Written By Acacia
Feb. 11, 2017, 12:48 p.m.(11/26/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Freja
There's many sides to Princess Freja that I've seen throughout the time I've known her, but I've come to value every facet she decides to present. I think sometimes I forget her age, how despite her youthfulness she demonstrates a particular wisdom, courage and perhaps a brashness that is borne from being self-assured. After entertaining my own bonfires throughout time, and even pulling away less desirable persons in the process, I've yet to purposefully miss something she held. I can't follow her on many of the journeys she will take in this life, but she's certainly not one to be forgotten. Even if I have to test the very limits of my whiskey-guzzling capabilities to keep up. There's definitely worse things in life to have to enjoy. Like tea.
Written By Acacia
Nov. 1, 2016, 11:45 p.m.(1/3/1005 AR)
Relationship Note on Malavaunt
There were always a lot of people asking about Malavaunt - the tanner who had his shop in the Boroughs for who knows how long. He certainly scared people, or at least creeped them out, from time to time. People don't take comments like 'she has pretty skin' quite as well as 'she has pretty hair' or 'she has a pretty dress'. Even his name made a few people question things. Though, things that stand out from the stillness of the graves do often call things into question, don't they?
You couldn't speak poorly of his work though. His exotic leathers, and wherever he managed to procure them-- well, they were always top class. He made his little silent hole there in the Graveyard, among all the others, and somehow it just fit. Oh, they were certainly pricey. But everything has a price, no?
If you ever had a conversation with the man, you'd note that he'd always be trying to clear up some miscommunication of some sort or another. Makes you wonder which one he failed to clear up this time, eh?
You couldn't speak poorly of his work though. His exotic leathers, and wherever he managed to procure them-- well, they were always top class. He made his little silent hole there in the Graveyard, among all the others, and somehow it just fit. Oh, they were certainly pricey. But everything has a price, no?
If you ever had a conversation with the man, you'd note that he'd always be trying to clear up some miscommunication of some sort or another. Makes you wonder which one he failed to clear up this time, eh?
Written By Acacia
Oct. 26, 2016, 2:09 a.m.(12/11/1004 AR)
Well. I learned that tea isn't my thing.
I've tolerated tea before in the right company, but usually only to try to convey some subtle message of one sort or another in the process. I'm far from being a leaf-reading, taste-inspecting savant though and I'm not sure I could tell the difference between most types or qualities.
There was one towards the end though which reminded me of red berries and apples -- and it was surprisingly fairly delicious. I asked Sir Silas for a case, but with instructions that I could shove at someone to ensure it was made properly. A certain physician comes to mind for things like this.
Either way, it was interesting meeting another of the Mercier family. Sir Silas had mentioned that I should run into his brother Master Lazarus at some point, but I never got the chance. Bad first impressions? Well. Perhaps they make it more interesting.
Mistress Ianthe was amusing as ever and if anyone is wondering, apparently scones are the way to that woman's heart. Or at least, it's perhaps one way. She keeps laughter dancing on her eyes enough that occasionally I'd love to just crack open her head and see what quips she has hidden inside of it.
Blacktongue is ever fascinating. He has so many different sides and tiny tidbits are always revealed in just about everything he says. They're incredibly fun to silently collect. We might have different viewpoints on what constitutes a Ray of Sunshine, but Family is one thing I get.
Others attended, including the Marquesa Samantha Deepwood -- a naturally affable woman who I need to make time for at some point.
Overall though, the Mercier Men -- all of them -- did a great job. I'm sure the people who like tea appreciate it, or perhaps more importantly, will pay for it.
I've tolerated tea before in the right company, but usually only to try to convey some subtle message of one sort or another in the process. I'm far from being a leaf-reading, taste-inspecting savant though and I'm not sure I could tell the difference between most types or qualities.
There was one towards the end though which reminded me of red berries and apples -- and it was surprisingly fairly delicious. I asked Sir Silas for a case, but with instructions that I could shove at someone to ensure it was made properly. A certain physician comes to mind for things like this.
Either way, it was interesting meeting another of the Mercier family. Sir Silas had mentioned that I should run into his brother Master Lazarus at some point, but I never got the chance. Bad first impressions? Well. Perhaps they make it more interesting.
Mistress Ianthe was amusing as ever and if anyone is wondering, apparently scones are the way to that woman's heart. Or at least, it's perhaps one way. She keeps laughter dancing on her eyes enough that occasionally I'd love to just crack open her head and see what quips she has hidden inside of it.
Blacktongue is ever fascinating. He has so many different sides and tiny tidbits are always revealed in just about everything he says. They're incredibly fun to silently collect. We might have different viewpoints on what constitutes a Ray of Sunshine, but Family is one thing I get.
Others attended, including the Marquesa Samantha Deepwood -- a naturally affable woman who I need to make time for at some point.
Overall though, the Mercier Men -- all of them -- did a great job. I'm sure the people who like tea appreciate it, or perhaps more importantly, will pay for it.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 26, 2016, 1:54 a.m.(12/11/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Lazarus
I kind of stand by the fact that whiskey can pair with just about anything, but I imagine this Mercier brother might say the same thing about his teas. I've floated through a lot of different circles over the years, but I suppose I just never spent time around tea drinkers. There's a whole etiquette associated that continues to elude me. The disdain for me adding a delicious bit of whiskey to my leafy little drink was as if I called his loved one corn smut or something. Yes, corn smut. The man's so knowledgeable that he actually knows that this is a thing.
If anyone has seen his brother, Sir Silas, try to sell things via a sales pitch -- they should probably know that he doesn't. His skills either show themselves, or they don't, and everyone goes on with their day without fanfare. Master Lazarus was the opposite. I'm fairly certain he could spend a whole day talking about the properties of dark leaf versus ... well, other leaf teas. He deserves credit for it. He's done his research and is cut from that kind of cloth.
A man with a dedicated eye for new things to sell and a willingness to do it well and thoroughly isn't that bad of an acquaintance to have. Just, maybe we should meet over alcohol instead.
If anyone has seen his brother, Sir Silas, try to sell things via a sales pitch -- they should probably know that he doesn't. His skills either show themselves, or they don't, and everyone goes on with their day without fanfare. Master Lazarus was the opposite. I'm fairly certain he could spend a whole day talking about the properties of dark leaf versus ... well, other leaf teas. He deserves credit for it. He's done his research and is cut from that kind of cloth.
A man with a dedicated eye for new things to sell and a willingness to do it well and thoroughly isn't that bad of an acquaintance to have. Just, maybe we should meet over alcohol instead.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 22, 2016, 2:17 p.m.(11/28/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Jarek
I seem to run into Prince Jarek Velenosa an awful lot and each time at a different locale. I admit that I thought he might be stuffy or uptight when I first got word of him, but he's remarkably grounded and easy to speak to. Get him talking about philosophically airing things and he'll fly with a new kind of wind. What this means for me? Well, aside from being someone who seems to emit a welcomed aura of mild mischief - the extent of the usefulness we might have to each other is still on the table.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 22, 2016, 2:08 p.m.(11/28/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Watt
Sometimes we find would-be associates in the places we least expect them. Watt Ulbran drips charm in a manner that would make others fan themselves. There's always been a bit of tension between the Ulbrans and the Cullers, by this or that, and the man continues to tread a little closer to things that I enjoy than I'd typically like. But he's witty, imaginative and easy to talk to. And those secreted glares? Well, I'll take those glares all day. They don't cut quite as brutally as knives in the back.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 11, 2016, 2:38 a.m.(10/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Blacktongue
There's not too many people who can successfully unnerve me by not doing anything unnerving at all. Blacktongue is one of them. Master Blacktongue? I can aggravate a lot of people, but he's one of the rare few that I'd prefer not to get on the bad side of. It's kind of a funny thing, considering he's exceptionally witty and skilled at what he does. His wordplay is phenomenal. Maybe there's just something about a mind like that that's intimidating in a way which puts him in a completely different realm than scholars or the like.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 11, 2016, 2:34 a.m.(10/22/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Vincere
Olives aside (even though they seem like a really big point), Lord Vincere took the fact I nearly mistook him for his brother with stride. I'm guessing it happens a fair amount, or at least that's what I'm hoping for. I think he even took it with humor. He seems to pay more attention to details than most, which automatically places him in that spot of holding my curiosity. I'm not sure how often I'll run into him, but even if I'm not quite as well-read as him, I do know that books make fabulous instruments to smack people with.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 5, 2016, 1:01 a.m.(10/4/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Fortunato
"Just an artist." A Grayhope. Unfortunately? I didn't know him a lot in my youth. That decade can mean a lot when you're that age. Fortunato is just mysterious enough to keep people coming back for more, though. On occasion, I get accused of trying to pick people's brains, but it's rarely actually the case. For him? I might make an exception. I think I could spend a day just watching him, as odd as that sounds. I have a feeling he's watching too. Where does he get his artistic inspiration? Someone should ask.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 2, 2016, 10:37 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Ianthe
For the vast number of times that I've run into Mistress Ianthe, I know decidedly little about her. But she has a sense of humor, she's remarkably close with Mistress Joscelin and she has more mischief and curiosity than is probably healthy for anyone. She strikes me as the kind of woman that you could potentially steer into some fun, and unknown, direction if you wanted to see entertainment ensue.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 2, 2016, 9:38 p.m.(9/25/1004 AR)
I was rather curious about the ritual when I heard it was going to be open to the public. Not to mention that I'm kind of a fan of Princess Freja - she's remarkably interesting, even if at times she can be horribly evasive with answering questions. I'm fond of the Princess, if I'm allowed to say such, and I'd be likely to attend just about anything she held.
But I don't really know what I saw. I don't know if she was communing with the bear, or what it was that led her to that glassy-eyed kind of stare that more people should probably be talking about. Or what she saw.
I do know, however, that those flowers are protected from people randomly going to pick them and start chewing on them. Just in case people start getting ideas.
But I don't really know what I saw. I don't know if she was communing with the bear, or what it was that led her to that glassy-eyed kind of stare that more people should probably be talking about. Or what she saw.
I do know, however, that those flowers are protected from people randomly going to pick them and start chewing on them. Just in case people start getting ideas.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 29, 2016, 1:47 p.m.(9/15/1004 AR)
I received a painting the other day, from the mind of one Master Carver - my now officially titled Most Elucidatory Counselor - and the skill of his partner Master Belardi. Not just any painting, but possibly the best kind of painting a person like me could ever wish for. It's bloody, and whiskey-touched and well... really, really large. I almost feel bad for the messenger and getting it through the doors was kind of a hassle, but as far as paintings go, it's amazing.
Sir Silas Mercier completed the prizes for the Gala in miraculous time, and I'm very much looking forward to Mistress Joscelin's favors. I find them both easy to talk to, whether over stew-dipped biscuits or late-night shop invasions of the secretive sort.
Sir Silas Mercier completed the prizes for the Gala in miraculous time, and I'm very much looking forward to Mistress Joscelin's favors. I find them both easy to talk to, whether over stew-dipped biscuits or late-night shop invasions of the secretive sort.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 9:01 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
I find myself constantly reminded how capable Mistress Joscelin Arterius is at her craftsmanship. I was gifted a stunning set of earrings in a black and white box, exquisitely worked by her hand. I find myself often in shops, from one side to the other, trying to show my support and get others to purchase from artisans I feel are especially skilled - and there are many of them. But this particular gift, like the person who gave it to me, is truly remarkable. I would greatly encourage anyone seeking gifts to employ her talents.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 8:22 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
There are some memories that need to be kept only mentally, never applied to paper or perhaps even shared on a personal level. Retained near the one's core and kept locked away. And then there's other memories which can be knocked off a list of things to do before you die.
I dived into the Palace Pools, loitered beneath their waterfall and gorged myself on a feast which took a half-dozen carts just to carry. Lady Star (Lady Dawn) certainly pulled through with her word and so much more. I have no regrets for how determinedly I fought for the opportunity and certainly would do it again.
I dived into the Palace Pools, loitered beneath their waterfall and gorged myself on a feast which took a half-dozen carts just to carry. Lady Star (Lady Dawn) certainly pulled through with her word and so much more. I have no regrets for how determinedly I fought for the opportunity and certainly would do it again.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 23, 2016, 7:44 p.m.(8/26/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Salazar
Lord Salazar Argento, or so I at least overheard him be called. I'd kind of rather think of him as the bold and memorable nameless Lord Corsair with a stewing animosity against lascivious bankers. He has a cavalier personality though and one that's flooded with lures and light. I can see him being one of those men that captures ladies in every port. Maybe not literally, though. Maybe.
We crossed blades, if only exceptionally briefly. The fact his was covered by scabbard and the amusing manner by which he engaged me were perhaps the only things that kept me from holding back. I've gone up against keen-bladed swords before and it isn't really my first choice of things to frivolously charge into. It really shouldn't be anyone's first choice, now that I think about it. But I'd certainly enjoy taking him on again.
We crossed blades, if only exceptionally briefly. The fact his was covered by scabbard and the amusing manner by which he engaged me were perhaps the only things that kept me from holding back. I've gone up against keen-bladed swords before and it isn't really my first choice of things to frivolously charge into. It really shouldn't be anyone's first choice, now that I think about it. But I'd certainly enjoy taking him on again.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 21, 2016, 4:16 a.m.(8/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Mistress Joscelin Arterius was always someone who I felt like I could swiftly become friends with, but she's gained my respect, as well. She wears her emotions openly, but in a manner that's rather inspiring, and she's truly passionate in the things she believes in. I wasn't entirely convinced about her potential role as Guildmaster until I sat down and spoke with her at length about it in person - but now I don't think I could endorse anyone else. She has her head on straight and there's far more ingenuity in the things she does than people might notice at first glance, all the way down to the meticulously carved buttons on her clothing. On top of that, well, she's a great partner for spectating events and drinking. There's just something genuinely warm there.
I was graciously gifted a piece of jewelry from her shop and was admittedly stunned by how perfectly chosen it was. It spoke volumes about her ability as an artisan and it certainly placed the person who granted it to me in extra high regard as a result. I've similarly used her shop for a token gift for someone else and it was remarkable what she could do. Never doubt the effect an amazing piece of jewelry might have, eh?
I was graciously gifted a piece of jewelry from her shop and was admittedly stunned by how perfectly chosen it was. It spoke volumes about her ability as an artisan and it certainly placed the person who granted it to me in extra high regard as a result. I've similarly used her shop for a token gift for someone else and it was remarkable what she could do. Never doubt the effect an amazing piece of jewelry might have, eh?
Written By Acacia
Sept. 21, 2016, 4:08 a.m.(8/18/1004 AR)
Relationship Note on Sylvie
Lady Sylphie struck me as being good with people the minute I originally overheard her conversation at the beach. Even distracted as I was with the game, it was hard not to catch notice of her. She's sharp in the way that lends itself to effortless conversation and I was a bit beyond pleased when my audience with Duke Niccolo in the Salon was happened upon by her. Gemecitta is one of the few city-states in the Lyceum that I haven't traveled to yet, but her descriptions leave me ever curious. I rather earnestly look forward to further engagements with her.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 21, 2016, 3:58 a.m.(8/18/1004 AR)
When I read notice of a number of beds being brought down to the Boroughs, I was mildly suspicious. Although, looking back on it now, being suspicious about beds is somewhat of an embarrassing thing to admit.
Anyhow, seeing as the order came from the owner of my favorite whiskey dive, I figured a bit of prodding here and there wouldn't hurt anything. Glancing over the evident plans, with the help of more than a couple of shared shots, brought truth to the matter, though. The Grayhope ability to play markets is always a little impressive, but it's how they managed to secure the Tavern, after all.
Sir Silas' craftsmanship is remarkable and worthy of trend, and the extra coin is all the better if it can coax him into setting up more game nights.
Anyhow, seeing as the order came from the owner of my favorite whiskey dive, I figured a bit of prodding here and there wouldn't hurt anything. Glancing over the evident plans, with the help of more than a couple of shared shots, brought truth to the matter, though. The Grayhope ability to play markets is always a little impressive, but it's how they managed to secure the Tavern, after all.
Sir Silas' craftsmanship is remarkable and worthy of trend, and the extra coin is all the better if it can coax him into setting up more game nights.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 21, 2016, 3:51 a.m.(8/18/1004 AR)
I never played Beachball that much in the past, though it wasn't completely foreign to me either. Inspiration works wonders though in the right situation and Lady Star (Lady Dawn) ensured our team had just that. While I'm still trying to get the sand out of my boots, Gull and Star put up a significant effort against the opposite side and their distinctly lacking nicknames.
Lord Valkieri caught onto the sport remarkably quickly and I don't know that anyone aside from Princess Valencia could make such sliding efforts as graceful. Lady Sylphie is a great commentator though, even if she won off my loss. I'm a little annoyed that Sir Silas managed to hit every single one of my spikes, but the guardsman has evident practice and if anyone is expected to save people or restore order or something--
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Especially if waterfalls are involved or other chances for wager. Maybe the crab cakes shouldn't be brought out until the end though.
Lord Valkieri caught onto the sport remarkably quickly and I don't know that anyone aside from Princess Valencia could make such sliding efforts as graceful. Lady Sylphie is a great commentator though, even if she won off my loss. I'm a little annoyed that Sir Silas managed to hit every single one of my spikes, but the guardsman has evident practice and if anyone is expected to save people or restore order or something--
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Especially if waterfalls are involved or other chances for wager. Maybe the crab cakes shouldn't be brought out until the end though.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.