Written By Medeia
Sept. 28, 2022, 9:13 a.m.(6/18/1018 AR)
News reached me of Lord Waylan Nightcove's death at Stormward. One might suspect I would rejoice in such news - particularly given that he abducted me once and made an attempt a second time, but all I can feel is deep sadness. He was surprisingly pleasant in all our dealings. And, in all honesty, I have become weary of war. Has there been a moment of peace since I was born? It feels like there has not. The Tor-Southport War, Argento, Silent, Gyre... Time after time, we find ourselves pitted against not only outside forces but against ourselves. I was too young or too far removed to have a role in war until the last several years, but now that I do? I would not wish this on anyone. No, not even my enemies.
Losing family, friends... Experiencing the heartbreak of betrayal and confusion when honor and duty are in conflict... I worry for all our souls as we navigate these waters.
Losing family, friends... Experiencing the heartbreak of betrayal and confusion when honor and duty are in conflict... I worry for all our souls as we navigate these waters.
Written By Medeia
Sept. 25, 2022, 8:06 p.m.(6/13/1018 AR)
Anyone with a touch of sense would know not to believe stories about Eswynders eating their captives after battle.
Traitors are given their due: a cross upon the shore.
Unless these rumormongers are suggesting scavenger birds are subject to our marquis? That would be quite the power. Alas, that is not the case, and I would caution against furthering such ugly lies.
Traitors are given their due: a cross upon the shore.
Unless these rumormongers are suggesting scavenger birds are subject to our marquis? That would be quite the power. Alas, that is not the case, and I would caution against furthering such ugly lies.
Written By Medeia
Aug. 5, 2022, 6:59 p.m.(2/23/1018 AR)
I have been to battle, before. I have fought, and I have tended the wounds after, and I have seen bodies laid to rest when necessary. None of it prepared me for what we faced at Redreef Shores. I could make excuses - any of us could. But the truth is this: Those who follow Dagon, and Ivan before him, feel empowered to brutality by their cause.
We have seen this time and again over the last few years. They claim love of the gods but dishonorably attacked our capitol and slaughtered the dominus. They aided foreign armies devoted to slavery against us at Pieros. They did not relent in their attack to spare the Mercies. The losses suffered at Redreef Shores were gutwrenching. I may never forgive myself for foolishly encouraging Eswynder warriors to continue to defend that beach against Nightcove. Hundreds of lives were lost. Hundreds more will grieve those losses.
And I will be haunted by the memory of bodies left broken on land. The only way I can think to begin to make right what was done is to ensure that every survivor that was taken as a thrall is released from the traitors' grasp.
We must not let them burn everything in their path.
We have seen this time and again over the last few years. They claim love of the gods but dishonorably attacked our capitol and slaughtered the dominus. They aided foreign armies devoted to slavery against us at Pieros. They did not relent in their attack to spare the Mercies. The losses suffered at Redreef Shores were gutwrenching. I may never forgive myself for foolishly encouraging Eswynder warriors to continue to defend that beach against Nightcove. Hundreds of lives were lost. Hundreds more will grieve those losses.
And I will be haunted by the memory of bodies left broken on land. The only way I can think to begin to make right what was done is to ensure that every survivor that was taken as a thrall is released from the traitors' grasp.
We must not let them burn everything in their path.
Written By Medeia
Aug. 5, 2022, 5:23 a.m.(2/22/1018 AR)
I have learned that a great number of people from across the Compact - from the commonborn to royalty - were concerned about my safety in the wake of my capture at Redreef Shores. At the time of this writing, I am aboard the caravel of Prince Tyrus Thrax, with the intention of having this journal submitted to the whites upon my arrival in Arx.
I am safe. I am grateful to be returning to my children. There is more to say, but those words will come later.
I am safe. I am grateful to be returning to my children. There is more to say, but those words will come later.
Written By Medeia
July 30, 2022, 1:31 p.m.(2/11/1018 AR)
Lord Myrgo Eswynd, named by my husband to honor the late duchess of House Tyde, was born some days past. I am always in awe of how very small newborns are. And how very much they look like their elderly relatives (blame all the wrinkles, I suppose). Myr does not look like a Saik that I can recall, so he must look like an Eswynd. Or perhaps like Haakon's father? A shame to have never met the man, but I carry a length of prayer beads he once did. Births continue to make me sentimental over some strange thoughts.
Written By Medeia
July 13, 2022, 10:30 p.m.(1/3/1018 AR)
Relationship Note on Aviana
In times of turmoil, it is always welcome to have reason to celebrate. Eswynd has been blessed by the swearing of fealty of Aviana Bertram. Her talent is undeniable, and we are glad to have her join our people.
Written By Medeia
July 12, 2022, 12:52 a.m.(12/27/1017 AR)
I am grateful to those who came to remember Duchess Margot Tyde, Baron Edward Stormbreak, and the thousands of others lost in recent conflict in the Isles. It was good to spend time recalling stories of who these people were, the impact they had upon others.
No one will ever come close to replacing my former patron for the part she played in my life. If not for her, I would not have my husband or my children. Her trust in me ensured that we accomplished good things. She was brave, intelligent, and wielded her words as well as any might wield a weapon. I miss her terribly, and I regret that my twins did not get to spend more time in the company of their late saltmother.
Thanks also to Aviana Bertram for the beautiful beaded bracelets made in memory of the duchess. I have a few remaining, should anyone wish a trinket who was unable to attend the memorial feast.
No one will ever come close to replacing my former patron for the part she played in my life. If not for her, I would not have my husband or my children. Her trust in me ensured that we accomplished good things. She was brave, intelligent, and wielded her words as well as any might wield a weapon. I miss her terribly, and I regret that my twins did not get to spend more time in the company of their late saltmother.
Thanks also to Aviana Bertram for the beautiful beaded bracelets made in memory of the duchess. I have a few remaining, should anyone wish a trinket who was unable to attend the memorial feast.
Written By Medeia
July 6, 2022, 3:26 a.m.(12/15/1017 AR)
Relationship Note on Thea
I am so very happy to welcome my dear friend to her new role with the Apothecary College! She was one of my very own tutors, once upon a time, so I know she will be a fantastic teacher to our students.
Written By Medeia
July 2, 2022, 12:50 a.m.(12/7/1017 AR)
Having the chance to attend a purely social event has been a rare thing in recent months. However, even an offhand agreement to Princess Keely must be honored, and so Haakon and I made an appearance at Princess Isolde's plant masquerade. I am glad that I did not make the effort to try and determine who was behind each mask - though I did figure out two, purely by chance. A gentlemanly orchid joined me in a dance.
Little can replace the particular relief that comes from being able to enjoy an evening without your guard up or guards at your back. One might suggest guard should always be up at a Lycene event, but I suppose I was feeling nostalgic for a taste of home.
Little can replace the particular relief that comes from being able to enjoy an evening without your guard up or guards at your back. One might suggest guard should always be up at a Lycene event, but I suppose I was feeling nostalgic for a taste of home.
Written By Medeia
June 19, 2022, 10:18 p.m.(11/11/1017 AR)
If any thought the murder of Duchess Margot Tyde would weaken the Tydelands, they are fools.
This is not the first mentor I have lost, nor is this the first betrayal by family I have survived.
My heart is broken but not my resolve.
This is not the first mentor I have lost, nor is this the first betrayal by family I have survived.
My heart is broken but not my resolve.
Written By Medeia
June 17, 2022, 12:15 a.m.(11/5/1017 AR)
I have had the joy of seeing the elder pair of children begin to make friends outside of the Isles. They are still so young, but they are curious and bold. It seemed best not to bring Mariska across the city to join in the festivities at the Rivenshari estate; once she is walking on her own, there will be plenty of opportunities for her to socialize.
All the strife in the Isles has had me on edge as of late. It reminds me how important it is for me to spend time with my children so that I can impart knowledge, teach them to love their duty to their people and the Compact, and help them to honor the gods. I hope that the legacy I leave behind for them is one they can be proud of, and one which will provide them allies and resources in their times of need.
All the strife in the Isles has had me on edge as of late. It reminds me how important it is for me to spend time with my children so that I can impart knowledge, teach them to love their duty to their people and the Compact, and help them to honor the gods. I hope that the legacy I leave behind for them is one they can be proud of, and one which will provide them allies and resources in their times of need.
Written By Medeia
June 15, 2022, 6:28 p.m.(11/3/1017 AR)
I did not know Marquessa-Consort Reigna Keaton half as well as many others, but her presence in my life was such that I will remember her for the guidance and trust she placed in me. She and I ran side-by-side through the city to provide aid at the Queensrest the day Ivanite traitors attacked the city. It is unlikely I would be the physician I am today if not for her.
Which is, sadly, a statement with double meaning. In the wake of her tragic loss, and the elevation of Lady-General Eirene Riven to Guildmaster of the Physicians Guild, I am honored to be named Assistant Guildmaster. I look forward to ensuring the continued growth and success of the guild. May all we do magnify her in memory.
Which is, sadly, a statement with double meaning. In the wake of her tragic loss, and the elevation of Lady-General Eirene Riven to Guildmaster of the Physicians Guild, I am honored to be named Assistant Guildmaster. I look forward to ensuring the continued growth and success of the guild. May all we do magnify her in memory.
Written By Medeia
April 28, 2022, 4:36 p.m.(7/18/1017 AR)
Three years of marriage have gone by more quickly than I had imagined they would. I am still sometimes asked how I am settling in to the Isles - at what point will I have settled? Have I not, already? Eswynd Rock is my home. My patron is Duchess Tyde. All of my children have Islander saltparents, and I am a saltparent to Islander children. I am curious about the difference between settling and settled. Is there some rite of passage I have yet to experience? Perhaps someone may have suggestions for how I could finish settling.
Written By Medeia
April 17, 2022, 7:54 p.m.(6/25/1017 AR)
Relationship Note on Imi
I recently had the good fortune to meet with Dame Imi and begin to learn about her. She was such lovely company and easy to talk to - honest, profound, and disinclined to use more words than necessary while remaining respectful. And my luck continues to favor me with the knight's acceptance of my offer of patronage. I look forward to the times ahead and helping her achieve her social goals!
Written By Medeia
April 8, 2022, 12:25 a.m.(6/5/1017 AR)
I recently traveled back to the land of House Blackreef - formerly Clan Blackreef, whose people I have not seen since they bent knee to House Redreef. I was reminded of the burdens that fall upon the shoulders of smaller noble families, especially those that have been struck by repeated tragedies and war. And the loneliness felt by those without the means to establish a presence within the city. Having to rule a far flung place with only distant allies and infrequent socialization among peers is an unenviable task.
I wish there were a way to make those houses feel truly a part of the Compact instead of apart from the Compact. If anyone should feel inspired to act with me, I would welcome discussion.
I wish there were a way to make those houses feel truly a part of the Compact instead of apart from the Compact. If anyone should feel inspired to act with me, I would welcome discussion.
Written By Medeia
March 28, 2022, 3:27 p.m.(5/12/1017 AR)
People are endlessly capable of learning and adapting, and sometimes those lessons and changes manifest in well reasoned actions, but not all circumstances allow for more than an instinctual reaction - neither better nor worse than having taken the time to think things through, when no other factors are considered. Instinct versus reason. Both are necessary to our survival, but there are times when one should be employed over the other for a better outcome. Strangely, this is not a straightforward measure. If in battle a woman who has killer instincts follows them, she is likely to be victorious. Alternatively, a woman who has little martial training who disregards her instinct to flee is unlikely to join the other in victory. Each person in any situation must trust themselves to wield instinct and reason capably.
Like any tool or weapon, we must hone our minds and bodies to the purpose we apply them to. And just as a bowl will not best serve your purposes when you have need of a knife, a warrior will not best serve your purposes when you have need of a baker. What each person can offer should be valued and given opportunity to pursue appropriate endeavors. If you find yourself disappointed with someone's performance in a situation, consider that you have misapplied them to the task or failed to give them a chance to learn and adapt.
Like any tool or weapon, we must hone our minds and bodies to the purpose we apply them to. And just as a bowl will not best serve your purposes when you have need of a knife, a warrior will not best serve your purposes when you have need of a baker. What each person can offer should be valued and given opportunity to pursue appropriate endeavors. If you find yourself disappointed with someone's performance in a situation, consider that you have misapplied them to the task or failed to give them a chance to learn and adapt.
Written By Medeia
March 20, 2022, 9:32 p.m.(4/25/1017 AR)
The archery tournament held by Ambassador Bahiya at the Golden Heart was quite the spectacle! I am not sure that I knew just how dangerous using a bow could be - for the archer! - until I warched the competitors. I have a renewed respect for the skill that many across the Compact have developed with the weapon.
Written By Medeia
March 20, 2022, 12:30 a.m.(4/23/1017 AR)
Miklos and Savja will be two years old on the morrow. They are both growing and developing so quickly. Their steps may yet wobble, but they take each one with such confidence that I wish I could keep them from ever doubting themselves. Their words are not perfectly enunciated, but every one is said with an assertiveness that could make great leaders tremble. Having the responsibility of raising a new generation of nobility weighs heavily on me. They are the inheritors of duty. There will be expectations upon them for all of their days, expectations which I will need to help them understand and meet - or exceed. I hope that I can find balance in teaching them to love their duty and still be true to their own desires.
The two are not mutually exclusive.
The two are not mutually exclusive.
Written By Medeia
March 6, 2022, 6:52 p.m.(3/25/1017 AR)
I sincerely hope my trust placed in a person who would, by name alone, be against me is not in error. I am always willing to broker peace in light of direct, honest communication. I may not agree with every word said, but there is something to appreciate in knowing where the other person stands.
The tides in the Isles are turning. May we all find ourselves in safe harbor in the end.
The tides in the Isles are turning. May we all find ourselves in safe harbor in the end.
Written By Medeia
March 3, 2022, 11:57 a.m.(3/18/1017 AR)
Relationship Note on Keely
I admit, the growing friendship between Princess Keely Grayson and myself comes as a pleasant surprise. She is kind, earnest, and genuine in her intentions. Time spent with her always proves to be time I am glad to have had - whether she is adopting one of the kittens Fluffy unexpectedly had, accepting dance lessons with personal guard as my stand-in while I am on bed rest, or inviting me out for an interesting evening of drinks. I have had the delight of learning that she is also a thoughtful and generous gift giver. No detail left unconsidered. It has been a joy to get to know her, and I suspect that she will prove to be someone of great importance in my life.
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