Written By Rysen
April 25, 2019, 1:30 p.m.(12/26/1010 AR)
Duchess Fianna recently introduced me to a war horse named Bandit who has been entrusted to my care. In truth, he has already become a fast friend, as we have been ranging together throughout the Crovane estate and into the Gray Forest and the northern section of the Great Road. I took him on our first patrol recently, and his endurance in the rugged mountain terrain is unlike any horse I've ever known. We saw light action on the patrol as well, as the hostile Shav tribes in the area have been very active of late, but Bandit showed great bravery - a testament to my cousin's incredible skill in husbandry and the training of animals.
As fate would have it, I am in no danger of growing lazy for spending more time on horseback. Princess Reese has agreed to continue my training, and I have been meeting her each morning for "light" runs. I don't think it surprises anyone to hear of the incredible strength and endurance of the Knight of Ribbons; however, my admiration for her continually grows - not only because I grow so tired as to feel that I'm trudging through tar, and gasping for each breath, while Princess Reese continues to bound like an elk along a forest trail - but because she is also a magnanimous and inspiring teacher. I have been speaking with the Princess about the Siege of Silence for a poem, and have begun to learn about the path she took to become a legendary warrior and commander. She has become a bright beacon through fearless determination, and such a pursuit kindles similar flames in the hearts of her students. Beware, enemies of the Compact. My body is a weapon being tempered by fire and steel, wrought by the greatest war-smiths of Arvum: the Bladesong, the Sword of Whitehold, and the legendary warrior princess of House Grayson. When the time comes, I will not let them down.
As fate would have it, I am in no danger of growing lazy for spending more time on horseback. Princess Reese has agreed to continue my training, and I have been meeting her each morning for "light" runs. I don't think it surprises anyone to hear of the incredible strength and endurance of the Knight of Ribbons; however, my admiration for her continually grows - not only because I grow so tired as to feel that I'm trudging through tar, and gasping for each breath, while Princess Reese continues to bound like an elk along a forest trail - but because she is also a magnanimous and inspiring teacher. I have been speaking with the Princess about the Siege of Silence for a poem, and have begun to learn about the path she took to become a legendary warrior and commander. She has become a bright beacon through fearless determination, and such a pursuit kindles similar flames in the hearts of her students. Beware, enemies of the Compact. My body is a weapon being tempered by fire and steel, wrought by the greatest war-smiths of Arvum: the Bladesong, the Sword of Whitehold, and the legendary warrior princess of House Grayson. When the time comes, I will not let them down.
Written By Rysen
April 24, 2019, 3:59 p.m.(12/24/1010 AR)
No walking dead now trouble the village of Eresport. Lady Rhiannon Ashford, Kaya the Wolverine, the warrior Lords of House Kennex, and I protected three whose spiritual power and connection to the unseen worlds returned the village to the dominion of the Queen of Endings. Sir Merek Black, Rukhnis Al-Katibi and Lady Olivia Ashford offered prayers and rites to the Queen, and brought an end to the onslaught of risen dead which had extended significantly beyond Eresport to the surrounding Abandoned tribes, and, perhaps, could soon have brought a horde of devouring corpses to the gates of Arx. My thanks to those who faced the risen dead on behalf of the Queen, and most especially to the Golden Ashford, Lady Olivia for her dauntless courage in the face of almost certain death.
I must also offer thanks to Selene Whisper and Sister Sophie, whose advice directly lead to breaking of the archfiend's power, and the renewal of the village, and to Princess Reese Grayson, who generously allowed me to conduct research in her personal library. My apologies for not being able to accept the incredible offer made by Lady Isabetta, the Princess, and Lady Teela. I thought I had already died and been granted entrance into Elysia before I smashed my head on the bookcase.
I must also offer thanks to Selene Whisper and Sister Sophie, whose advice directly lead to breaking of the archfiend's power, and the renewal of the village, and to Princess Reese Grayson, who generously allowed me to conduct research in her personal library. My apologies for not being able to accept the incredible offer made by Lady Isabetta, the Princess, and Lady Teela. I thought I had already died and been granted entrance into Elysia before I smashed my head on the bookcase.
Written By Rysen
April 18, 2019, 11:04 a.m.(12/11/1010 AR)
I invited Selene to the Nightingale's concert at the Bard's College. It was amazing, and I had a great time. Congratulations to Gianna and Prince Niklas, who have managed to present us with songs moving, witty and satyric in perfect measure.
Written By Rysen
April 17, 2019, 6:40 p.m.(12/10/1010 AR)
I find great joy in the depth of feeling and thought I experience at Princess Helena's poetry readings. The poems were fantastic, and I heard from many new voices, each with their own style, concerns and truths. I really appreciate all those who come out to be a part of community as well. I was happy - and perhaps a little nervous - to see Lady Arcadia present, who braved the close proximity of so many scholarly tomes to hear us, and Lady Azolla Nightgold, one of the latest singers to join the Nightingale's college, and one whom I believe will one day become famous through all of Arx for the potency and beauty of her voice. I only hope she allows me to continue to write songs for her, as Prince Niklas writes for Gianna, so that the Bard's College can boast the voices of both the Nightingale and the Northern Lark of Stonedeep.
I was surprised to see the adventurer Lady Mikani Redreef in the Academy as well, and thought she might have snuck some rotten fruit into the hall to pelt me with if my poetry did not live up to her standards. Luckily, she brought rum instead. In all it was a wonderful evening - even though Lady Monique threatened me with violence for refusing to admit that her poetry was awful. She clearly doesn't know how stubborn I am. If she wants to write bad poetry, stick with boring cliches: roses are red and all that. It's not my fault her poem brought to mind the high wisdom of the Metallics, the fleeting quality of life, and the interesting juxtaposition of life's brevity with longevity of the written word.
I was surprised to see the adventurer Lady Mikani Redreef in the Academy as well, and thought she might have snuck some rotten fruit into the hall to pelt me with if my poetry did not live up to her standards. Luckily, she brought rum instead. In all it was a wonderful evening - even though Lady Monique threatened me with violence for refusing to admit that her poetry was awful. She clearly doesn't know how stubborn I am. If she wants to write bad poetry, stick with boring cliches: roses are red and all that. It's not my fault her poem brought to mind the high wisdom of the Metallics, the fleeting quality of life, and the interesting juxtaposition of life's brevity with longevity of the written word.
Written By Rysen
April 15, 2019, 4:17 p.m.(12/6/1010 AR)
I entered the arena of the Golden Hart the other evening, to the sound of wild cheers. Drinks flowed, and feet dangled from the rafters as a pitched battle raged in the arena between Lady Arcadia Leary and Lady Tescelina Wyrmguard. Between the sparring, and the betrothal of Petal Penrose and Cillian Weatherwood, it was a lively, exhilarating night and I truly enjoyed myself. My congratulations to Petal and Cillian, and my thanks to Princess Valencia Velenosa who showed again her magnanimous spirit and the fiery splendor of her Hart.
Written By Rysen
April 14, 2019, 10:34 a.m.(12/3/1010 AR)
I visited the Great Grey Hall for a ball hosted by Princess Liara. The music was exquisite and the company diverse and pleasant. It was good to spend time with the Learys and my fellow Northerners. Though I didn't have a chance to converse with him, I enjoyed sharing a dance floor with Lord Martino, as being in close proximity to those graceful movements is a living lesson on what is possible with dedication to the joyful art. It was also good to see Rukhnis dance, and, though she arrived at the ball with a book - on the ecology of lobsters, no less - I was, with much effort and varied arguments, able to persuade Lady Peri to join me on the dance floor, and had a wonderful time.
As I become more familiar with the city of Arx, my respect for the skill and warmth of Princess Liara continues to grow. It is easy for a battle-hardened solider to look on social events at court under a cloud of contempt; however, the alliances and fellowship of the Compact are tempered in just such joyful forges - and it is that unity that comes from dance, conversation and happiness, that, in the tests of fire and blood, harden our resolve and ignite our courage in the hope that our sons and daughters will know all the advantages of culture, trust and fellowship.
Our work continues in Coastside. Thank the gods and spirits for Lady Amari Keaton. Her mind is keen and organized, and she is a sobering presence in a place where fury and sorrow threaten to turn justice into revenge. I am concerned about the safety of Duchess Fianna. I've added several of my most trusted retainers to her security detail, and Lygeia has boldly offered to taste all of her food while in Coastside, but I continue to feel restless and anxious as we search for answers.
As I become more familiar with the city of Arx, my respect for the skill and warmth of Princess Liara continues to grow. It is easy for a battle-hardened solider to look on social events at court under a cloud of contempt; however, the alliances and fellowship of the Compact are tempered in just such joyful forges - and it is that unity that comes from dance, conversation and happiness, that, in the tests of fire and blood, harden our resolve and ignite our courage in the hope that our sons and daughters will know all the advantages of culture, trust and fellowship.
Our work continues in Coastside. Thank the gods and spirits for Lady Amari Keaton. Her mind is keen and organized, and she is a sobering presence in a place where fury and sorrow threaten to turn justice into revenge. I am concerned about the safety of Duchess Fianna. I've added several of my most trusted retainers to her security detail, and Lygeia has boldly offered to taste all of her food while in Coastside, but I continue to feel restless and anxious as we search for answers.
Written By Rysen
April 11, 2019, 6:15 p.m.(11/26/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Josephine
I come with a vision, and leave with a treasure. Your work is peerless, and the heirlooms of ages to come have been wrought by your hands.
Written By Rysen
April 10, 2019, 12:08 p.m.(11/24/1010 AR)
I happened upon Lady Cady Leary in the Redrain Gardens the other afternoon while training swordsmanship. Though I'm sure I was a sweaty mess, she was kind enough to speak with me for a while. Her company was relaxing, and her conversation interesting. There is something about speaking with someone in the twilight, when the fading light of the sun reveals a sea of stars, rising above all the yellows, reds and violets of the sunset, that blurs the distinctions between dreams and wakeful presence, and makes anything seem possible.
Having recently sought the aid of the renown Whisper Selene, I find my admiration for her way of life growing. She is intelligent, poised and moves with calculated dignity. It seems there is nothing she cannot accomplish. She is perhaps the only person I have seen Rukhnis show any sort affection for, as I think both share a supreme dedication to duty and high ideals from which springs a source of profound strength and conviction. Some part of me continues to wonder though, as with the Nightingale, if there is aught beneath that controlled performance, some sliver of the animal inside that delights in experience without control, or dignity, or purpose - the capacity for the unadulterated joy of play, love making, laughter, dance or any other experience which forces one to live only in the moment, or whether, in order to live and perform at such a high standard, such impulses must be stamped out of one's soul forever.
Having recently sought the aid of the renown Whisper Selene, I find my admiration for her way of life growing. She is intelligent, poised and moves with calculated dignity. It seems there is nothing she cannot accomplish. She is perhaps the only person I have seen Rukhnis show any sort affection for, as I think both share a supreme dedication to duty and high ideals from which springs a source of profound strength and conviction. Some part of me continues to wonder though, as with the Nightingale, if there is aught beneath that controlled performance, some sliver of the animal inside that delights in experience without control, or dignity, or purpose - the capacity for the unadulterated joy of play, love making, laughter, dance or any other experience which forces one to live only in the moment, or whether, in order to live and perform at such a high standard, such impulses must be stamped out of one's soul forever.
Written By Rysen
April 7, 2019, 10:43 p.m.(11/18/1010 AR)
I have been having this nightmare about Eresport as I am preparing to return. In the dream, Harlex and I keep pulling on the rope, but Lady Olivia never reaches the top of the well. The corpse of a child claws her and bites her, but no matter how fast I pull, or with what fury I race to drag her from the well, she never makes it to the top. I hate the dream. It makes me feel powerless. There is still so much I don't understand.
Fortunately, I did manage to get a good night of sleep from the stupor I found myself in after Lady Willow's birthday party. It was a fantastic celebration, but to write more than that might be unwise.
I was also lucky enough to hone my survival skills under Lord Arik Halfshav, who deduced the entirety of my combat style by glancing at my sword belt. One of my old mentors used to say, "the most under utilized weapon on the battlefield is the mind." I suspect the Sword of Whitehold is a notable exception.
Fortunately, I did manage to get a good night of sleep from the stupor I found myself in after Lady Willow's birthday party. It was a fantastic celebration, but to write more than that might be unwise.
I was also lucky enough to hone my survival skills under Lord Arik Halfshav, who deduced the entirety of my combat style by glancing at my sword belt. One of my old mentors used to say, "the most under utilized weapon on the battlefield is the mind." I suspect the Sword of Whitehold is a notable exception.
Written By Rysen
April 5, 2019, 1:24 a.m.(11/13/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Martino
I look forward to it.
Written By Rysen
April 3, 2019, 6:10 p.m.(11/10/1010 AR)
My early tutor, the famed Dame Judyth Meadows of Sanctum, who was also a mentor to my mother, claimed that there were two types of knowledge, which I shall reductively call practical and theoretical. The first sort relied on the senses: a seed was an apple seed because, when planted, one could watch it grow into an apple tree and produce fruit. The second sort relied on a relational principle, an essence that, once understood, applied to all instances. A seed is an apple seed because it came from an apple and all seeds that come from apples grow into apple trees necessarily under the right conditions.
I am no scholar nor deep thinker, and, as a poet, I arrive at truth through feeling and intuition more often than careful reasoning; however, in returning to Eresport, I do not merely wish to find a few more bodies to burn.
I visited Keaton Hall in pursuit of knowledge, though, if I had read what the Marquessa had written in the Whites beforehand, I never would have gone. Instead, I would have knelt at the Shrine of Limerance to beg forgiveness for bringing misery to one whom I so greatly respect and admire. Nevertheless, I believe I learned many valuable things, and, having now read her initial thoughts on the events of which I inquired, I offer my sincere and unqualified gratitude for all that she did there. Many were lost, but those losses were not in vain. Many more were saved because of the courage and skill of the Marquessa and the physicians. House Crovane will never forget the sacrifices made at the battle of Stormwall, and I have a responsibility to those who died for the sake of my people.
I am no scholar nor deep thinker, and, as a poet, I arrive at truth through feeling and intuition more often than careful reasoning; however, in returning to Eresport, I do not merely wish to find a few more bodies to burn.
I visited Keaton Hall in pursuit of knowledge, though, if I had read what the Marquessa had written in the Whites beforehand, I never would have gone. Instead, I would have knelt at the Shrine of Limerance to beg forgiveness for bringing misery to one whom I so greatly respect and admire. Nevertheless, I believe I learned many valuable things, and, having now read her initial thoughts on the events of which I inquired, I offer my sincere and unqualified gratitude for all that she did there. Many were lost, but those losses were not in vain. Many more were saved because of the courage and skill of the Marquessa and the physicians. House Crovane will never forget the sacrifices made at the battle of Stormwall, and I have a responsibility to those who died for the sake of my people.
Written By Rysen
March 31, 2019, 10:42 p.m.(11/4/1010 AR)
It was a thrilling experience to compete in the Grand Melee of the Tournament of Roses. It pushed my body and mind to their limits, and for me, there is an unspeakable joy in the stillness that comes from focusing all into action and reaction. Thank you to Princess Berenice Velenosa for organizing the Tournament, and to all those who joined the field to compete. It was an honor to fight alongside famed warriors of the North like Princess Marian and Lady Brianna, and many other skilled warriors from all over Arvum.
I would be remiss without mentioning a newfound respect for the Radiant Whisper, not to claim that it matters to her one way or the other. She shone brightly in the field of combat, and I am in her debt for piercing my illusions with a thrust her rapier.
My congratulations to Lady Ouida Harthall. Lying on the ground half-conscious was a testament to her strength and martial prowess. Taking her hand to rise again was a testament to her chivalrous spirit.
I would be remiss without mentioning a newfound respect for the Radiant Whisper, not to claim that it matters to her one way or the other. She shone brightly in the field of combat, and I am in her debt for piercing my illusions with a thrust her rapier.
My congratulations to Lady Ouida Harthall. Lying on the ground half-conscious was a testament to her strength and martial prowess. Taking her hand to rise again was a testament to her chivalrous spirit.
Written By Rysen
March 30, 2019, 11:23 p.m.(11/3/1010 AR)
I went with Rukhnis to Lord Martino's lessons in ballroom dancing. After having the honor of dancing with Princess Reese some time ago, I practiced some in the Bard's College with a few of that troupe whom I could convince to swear to secrecy. Still, I am hardly a confident dancer, and was surprised and happy to find Lord Martino's instructions accessible, yet challenging. It was also an exquisite pleasure to hear the transporting music of our most recent Mockingbird Evaristo.
I was most impressed with the graceful footwork of the new Duchess of House Ashford, Lady Lisebet. Though in Stormwall I spent most of my time in military camps, I have visited enough ballrooms to have witnessed skilled dancers take pleasure in upstaging and embarrassing their partners. Such is not the case with Duchess Lisebet. Though her movements flowed with artistry and beauty, she perfectly matched the steps of her partners. I overheard her say that she is "decorative." Alas, My Lady, I must disagree. The sort of beauty Duchess Lisebet makes appear so effortless is a source of power at least equal to any sword or army. While one might succumb to superior force, one lives to serve beauty and grace, and finds happiness in doing so.
For a moment, I was certain I was responsible for injuring Lady Kaia Bisland, who had generously agreed to dance with me. She was obligated to leave the dance floor with a twisted ankle, and suggested that Lady Olivia might take her place. While I now suspect Lady Kaia's ankle may have had more to do with an ingenious design than my poor skill in dancing, I hold no grudge. Instead I offer thanks to Jayus that Lady Kaia's ankle seems fine, and for having the opportunity to dance with the talented physician and apothecary of House Ashford.
I was most impressed with the graceful footwork of the new Duchess of House Ashford, Lady Lisebet. Though in Stormwall I spent most of my time in military camps, I have visited enough ballrooms to have witnessed skilled dancers take pleasure in upstaging and embarrassing their partners. Such is not the case with Duchess Lisebet. Though her movements flowed with artistry and beauty, she perfectly matched the steps of her partners. I overheard her say that she is "decorative." Alas, My Lady, I must disagree. The sort of beauty Duchess Lisebet makes appear so effortless is a source of power at least equal to any sword or army. While one might succumb to superior force, one lives to serve beauty and grace, and finds happiness in doing so.
For a moment, I was certain I was responsible for injuring Lady Kaia Bisland, who had generously agreed to dance with me. She was obligated to leave the dance floor with a twisted ankle, and suggested that Lady Olivia might take her place. While I now suspect Lady Kaia's ankle may have had more to do with an ingenious design than my poor skill in dancing, I hold no grudge. Instead I offer thanks to Jayus that Lady Kaia's ankle seems fine, and for having the opportunity to dance with the talented physician and apothecary of House Ashford.
Written By Rysen
March 26, 2019, 2:03 p.m.(10/22/1010 AR)
I visited my second of Princess Helena's poetry readings, and found there fellowship, beauty and the full spectrum of human emotions crafted eloquently into words. Princess Donella presented a poem that perfectly captured the passing of the Autumn season, while Marquessa Lianne, proving herself a versatile genius of our age, presented a poem reflecting on the antithesis of living and knowing, of thought and action, in the conceit of a hummingbird after its passing. Our illustrious hostess also read, first a meditation on separation and transformation from Lord Sebastian, who could not himself be present, and then a few of her own poems, one of which proposed the impossible circumstance of a lover who could somehow forget her - a laughable notion to any who have spent time in the Princess's presence, but an excellent opportunity for her to display unmatched skill in the poetic presentation of the feelings of longing.
I was also very happy to see those who came out for the readings. Though always nervous to share anything publicly, I truly appreciate the community who comes to support the poets of Arx, as they have always made me feel at home and welcome. Listening to the other poets present, I am becoming painfully aware that my own style of composition is far different from those talented writers. While the aid of a muse is conventional for poets, it is more than that for me. I am more a listener than a writer, and never read what I present, so much as recall the voice that so often flows through my mind.
I was also very happy to see those who came out for the readings. Though always nervous to share anything publicly, I truly appreciate the community who comes to support the poets of Arx, as they have always made me feel at home and welcome. Listening to the other poets present, I am becoming painfully aware that my own style of composition is far different from those talented writers. While the aid of a muse is conventional for poets, it is more than that for me. I am more a listener than a writer, and never read what I present, so much as recall the voice that so often flows through my mind.
Written By Rysen
March 21, 2019, 4:05 p.m.(10/12/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Delilah
I see that you are very wise, my Lady, and a true poet yourself.
Written By Rysen
March 20, 2019, 11:31 a.m.(10/10/1010 AR)
Though heavy shadows loom over my soul from Asger's wraith, I truly enjoyed myself at the Redrain edition of the Taste of Arx. The event was masterfully orchestrated by Princess Elgana, and exciting games were hosted by Lady Brianna and Princess Helena.
My brother wrote me from Stormwall to ask if it was true that Princess Liara Grayson honored the Crovane family by spending time amid the benches carved from the blackwood of our homeland. Such is the attention and admiration garnered by the Princess even in the far north. She is a warm light, and where she goes, good conversation, excitement, and all social graces follow in her train.
I am very grateful to all who all who came out to experience some of the Northern culture in which I take such great pride, especially Lady Beatrice Malespero, whose greeting I will never forget.
My brother wrote me from Stormwall to ask if it was true that Princess Liara Grayson honored the Crovane family by spending time amid the benches carved from the blackwood of our homeland. Such is the attention and admiration garnered by the Princess even in the far north. She is a warm light, and where she goes, good conversation, excitement, and all social graces follow in her train.
I am very grateful to all who all who came out to experience some of the Northern culture in which I take such great pride, especially Lady Beatrice Malespero, whose greeting I will never forget.
Written By Rysen
March 18, 2019, 7:45 p.m.(10/6/1010 AR)
I accompanied a small group of physicians to the village of Eresport not far from Arx. The reports coming from Eresport were disturbing: a large number of dead bodies in the town, without any evidence of violence - but the reports did not compare with what we experienced when we arrived.
Though bodies littered the town - both human and animal - there were, in fact, three survivors, who had holed up in a house. Harlex, a skilled swordsman and captain of the Crimson Blades, and I broke down the door., which would have been my last memory, but for the masterfully crafted armor of Josephine Arcuri, which turned the arrow meant for my heart. Upon interrogation, the survivors told a disturbing tale, that, to fully recount runs the risk of unnecessary panic. The physicians present, including Lady Gretchen, Lady Olivia, Baroness Skye and Rukhnis, gathered a number of samples from the heaps of corpses as well as other objects of interest, including a peculiar flower that was found near each of the homes of affected villagers.
Things changed drastically for the worse after nightfall, and I will say this much about the courage and valor of my companions: I have had no better brother in arms by my side than Harlex Valtyr, nor, in spite of whatever protestations he may offer in order to maintain his facade of buffoonery, which no doubt aids his various schemes, can I fail to mention the courage and skill of Gilroy Grayhope, who risked his star iron adorned neck to stand between a violent death and his comrades. Nor quailed Lady Gretchen, Baroness Skye, or Rukhnis, who remained focused in spite of unspeakable terror. What can I write to convey the courage and dauntless spirit of Lady Olivia, whose actions heap honor on the House of Ashford? Perhaps it is enough to admit that the bravest of us do not wield swords.
Under the protection of the gods and spirits we made it out, and did our best to contain the threat, but questions persist. I'm sure the Physicians will publish their findings when they have fully examined the evidence, but I cannot rest now without knowing the answers. With all that took place, I find my admiration and respect for my retainer Rukhnis growing by the day, as her intellect and senses are undeniably sharp, nor was she anything but steadfast in the face of mortal danger.
Though bodies littered the town - both human and animal - there were, in fact, three survivors, who had holed up in a house. Harlex, a skilled swordsman and captain of the Crimson Blades, and I broke down the door., which would have been my last memory, but for the masterfully crafted armor of Josephine Arcuri, which turned the arrow meant for my heart. Upon interrogation, the survivors told a disturbing tale, that, to fully recount runs the risk of unnecessary panic. The physicians present, including Lady Gretchen, Lady Olivia, Baroness Skye and Rukhnis, gathered a number of samples from the heaps of corpses as well as other objects of interest, including a peculiar flower that was found near each of the homes of affected villagers.
Things changed drastically for the worse after nightfall, and I will say this much about the courage and valor of my companions: I have had no better brother in arms by my side than Harlex Valtyr, nor, in spite of whatever protestations he may offer in order to maintain his facade of buffoonery, which no doubt aids his various schemes, can I fail to mention the courage and skill of Gilroy Grayhope, who risked his star iron adorned neck to stand between a violent death and his comrades. Nor quailed Lady Gretchen, Baroness Skye, or Rukhnis, who remained focused in spite of unspeakable terror. What can I write to convey the courage and dauntless spirit of Lady Olivia, whose actions heap honor on the House of Ashford? Perhaps it is enough to admit that the bravest of us do not wield swords.
Under the protection of the gods and spirits we made it out, and did our best to contain the threat, but questions persist. I'm sure the Physicians will publish their findings when they have fully examined the evidence, but I cannot rest now without knowing the answers. With all that took place, I find my admiration and respect for my retainer Rukhnis growing by the day, as her intellect and senses are undeniably sharp, nor was she anything but steadfast in the face of mortal danger.
Written By Rysen
March 17, 2019, 4:21 p.m.(10/4/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Asger
Sleep well, cousin, knowing that we will keep your family safe. Avert your eyes, Gloria and mighty Sentinel. Awake dark spirits of vengeance. There is no sacrifice I will not make to find the truth. My shade will never rest until the designs of the guilty have been razed, and those responsible have been cast into the Abyss forever.
Written By Rysen
March 15, 2019, 6:31 p.m.(9/28/1010 AR)
I've been spending some evenings in my cousin's Black Axe Pub of late, having never before realized that Clara's Medicinary contained such an excellent place to drink. My servant Rukhnis seems to prefer it too, since the only thing she would choke down at The Spirits was mead; whereas in the pub she'll complain more mildly about the tea. Though I cannot say I know too much about her history, I know more than I did, and I admit that she feels more familiar to me with each passing day, as she has proven herself talented and trustworthy. Still, to others I know she stands out a great deal. It makes me laugh to recall Marquessa Reigna trying to pronounce her name in that beautiful Oathlands accent. Gods, there is something about the way Oathlanders speak that is charming beyond measure - especially in the voice of a woman like Princess Sorrel, when one gets her speaking of her past, in whose voice and accent one would swear came from the lips of some sister of Jayus rather than a woman of mortal kind. But perhaps that's just my bias, having been raised by a Valardin lady who was herself a poet and expert storyteller.
I've met some interesting people in the pub as well, among them, Vincenzo, the master tailor, who first directed my attention to the balcony and its magnificent views. Since he has pointed it out to me, I've spent some quiet moments watching the people stroll by, many of whom - to my delight, and the chagrin of Rukhnis, who doubted my wisdom in such matters - wore brocade top hats, which have roared into fashion following the trend set by Prince Niklas after winning a contest at the Gilded Page. Vincenzo is an interesting man and a true artist, though in a medium I have not yet been educated enough to appreciate. When I am far wealthier, I will certainly visit his shop to see if I am truly as repulsive to tasteful fashion as I seem.
I have also been lucky enough to meet with Lady Peri, and the Baroness Lucita in the pub. Though my pride continues to bleed out from the gash given it by Lady Peri not recalling having met me previously, I swear I learn valuable life lessons each time I'm in her presence. She is truly a woman of wisdom and an excellent leader. My soul was moved by the music of Lady Lucita, whose voice and music shine with the light of genius, so much so that it has been hard to think of much else in the days since I have heard it. She also seemed willing to play a melody to accompany my narrative poetry - and if she was sincere, I will most certainly take her up on that offer.
The master brewer Venturo also passed through the pub while I was present, and had the unexciting experience of being introduced to Rukhnis for the first time. I am fairly bitter I was called away before I got a chance to ask him to tell the story of his brush with an assassin - a failure I will erase at the earliest opportunity.
I've met some interesting people in the pub as well, among them, Vincenzo, the master tailor, who first directed my attention to the balcony and its magnificent views. Since he has pointed it out to me, I've spent some quiet moments watching the people stroll by, many of whom - to my delight, and the chagrin of Rukhnis, who doubted my wisdom in such matters - wore brocade top hats, which have roared into fashion following the trend set by Prince Niklas after winning a contest at the Gilded Page. Vincenzo is an interesting man and a true artist, though in a medium I have not yet been educated enough to appreciate. When I am far wealthier, I will certainly visit his shop to see if I am truly as repulsive to tasteful fashion as I seem.
I have also been lucky enough to meet with Lady Peri, and the Baroness Lucita in the pub. Though my pride continues to bleed out from the gash given it by Lady Peri not recalling having met me previously, I swear I learn valuable life lessons each time I'm in her presence. She is truly a woman of wisdom and an excellent leader. My soul was moved by the music of Lady Lucita, whose voice and music shine with the light of genius, so much so that it has been hard to think of much else in the days since I have heard it. She also seemed willing to play a melody to accompany my narrative poetry - and if she was sincere, I will most certainly take her up on that offer.
The master brewer Venturo also passed through the pub while I was present, and had the unexciting experience of being introduced to Rukhnis for the first time. I am fairly bitter I was called away before I got a chance to ask him to tell the story of his brush with an assassin - a failure I will erase at the earliest opportunity.
Written By Rysen
March 12, 2019, 12:25 p.m.(9/22/1010 AR)
Having missed the grand opening of the observatory, I recently went to visit on a clear night. The view of myriad stars gleaming in the night sky was moving: it reminded me that though one star may glimmer faintly, a sky full of constellations illuminates brightly, and gives shape to such beautiful light. Such a reflection was not irrelevant to the announcement made by Prince Victus of House Thrax shortly after my visit. Though renowned as a warlord, and a sailor, the Prince's oratory was masterful, sincere, and well reasoned. I believe his courage will make the constellation of the Compact ever brighter.
While at the observatory I met an intriguing young woman. She had something of the Valardin style of dress, and a sort of ethereal beauty - somewhat cold and distant - though when I was leaving her presence, she smiled, and it was like the rising of Spring flowers after a stark Winter. I hope to see her again, though I suspect I will be reluctant to trouble her, on account of whatever it is that haunts her, and keeps her from engaging with the fire and zeal of life.
On the subject of life and its passing, I more recently went to Keaton Hall to celebrate Lady Tessa Moore. Though I never met her, I hoped to offer some support to her friends and family, and perhaps learn a little about the one whose passing has moved so many. Marquessa Reigna and Marquess Kael Keaton were superb hosts, and it was good to see Lady Gretchen, Venturo and Gilroy - the latter of which surprised me a great deal, as his demeanor was far different from that which I have observed on other occasions. He is clearly a man of more depth than I had first supposed, and seems a true and worthy friend to Lady Gretchen. The highlight of the celebration was a paper mache garantuan, which a number of us managed to destroy with wooden clubs, revealing its contents to be absurdly expensive gifts. The experience taught me two things: the expansive generosity and largesse of Marquessa Reigna, and to guard one's face whenever Lady Amari holds any sort of dangerous object.
The celebration at Keaton Hall has inspired me. When my time comes, I hereby ask Cousin Fianna and Princess Helena to hold a celebration of my life at The Black Hall of Axes, and invite every poet, and every person who has ever felt the slightest pleasure from the arts of language, or true felt emotion, to perform those works which move them most. Let my twin swords be placed next to the axes in the hall, and let me fall to the Abyss with a smile on my face, winged with soaring verse, and the laughter of friends and family.
While at the observatory I met an intriguing young woman. She had something of the Valardin style of dress, and a sort of ethereal beauty - somewhat cold and distant - though when I was leaving her presence, she smiled, and it was like the rising of Spring flowers after a stark Winter. I hope to see her again, though I suspect I will be reluctant to trouble her, on account of whatever it is that haunts her, and keeps her from engaging with the fire and zeal of life.
On the subject of life and its passing, I more recently went to Keaton Hall to celebrate Lady Tessa Moore. Though I never met her, I hoped to offer some support to her friends and family, and perhaps learn a little about the one whose passing has moved so many. Marquessa Reigna and Marquess Kael Keaton were superb hosts, and it was good to see Lady Gretchen, Venturo and Gilroy - the latter of which surprised me a great deal, as his demeanor was far different from that which I have observed on other occasions. He is clearly a man of more depth than I had first supposed, and seems a true and worthy friend to Lady Gretchen. The highlight of the celebration was a paper mache garantuan, which a number of us managed to destroy with wooden clubs, revealing its contents to be absurdly expensive gifts. The experience taught me two things: the expansive generosity and largesse of Marquessa Reigna, and to guard one's face whenever Lady Amari holds any sort of dangerous object.
The celebration at Keaton Hall has inspired me. When my time comes, I hereby ask Cousin Fianna and Princess Helena to hold a celebration of my life at The Black Hall of Axes, and invite every poet, and every person who has ever felt the slightest pleasure from the arts of language, or true felt emotion, to perform those works which move them most. Let my twin swords be placed next to the axes in the hall, and let me fall to the Abyss with a smile on my face, winged with soaring verse, and the laughter of friends and family.
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