Written By Vanora
Sept. 26, 2018, 11:23 a.m.(9/4/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Perronne
In skimming journals I've been motivated to consider a little bit on the role that Tehom plays in all aspects of my life and that of others, though that is the same for all the Gods.
I would encourage deeper reflection if one shies away from knowledge of Tehom because one does not 'like' him. Though the Gods are all representing parts of humanity, they are not human, and our affection for any particular deity largely irrelevant. It changes us, because we are adaptable creatures, able to change ourselves continuously. Moving past that to consider what The Thirteenth's deeper purpose is helps us to determine what we might wish to change, as well as how. What the dogma of Tehom would encourage is spending /more/ time, not less, examining the parts of you that make you uncomfortable. For while it is undoubtedly true that one ought not dwell...those who look deep into the Reflection regularly benefit from that constant examination. "Who am I? In what ways am I likely to submit to darker impulses? How can I prevent myself from doing so?" A life un-examined does not necessarily offer up the answers to these questions, nor even the questions themselves. The Thirteenth can deliver many a cautionary tale, and usually it amounts to how important it is to know the self. To honor the God who teaches us to seek that knowledge is hugely important.
The Mirrormasks are always there to add clarity, to listen thoughtfully and serve to counsel those struggling against the darkness, that they may subdue it in order to better know, and be, the light. One can certainly consider themselves to be a reflective person, trying to continuously improve, without paying much heed to the Thirteenth. Yet it remains that His gifts to humanity are real, and as important as those of any other God in the Pantheon.
I would phrase it as you do not need to fear Him. We must fear /ourselves/ for that is where the pitfalls lie...and Tehom is here to show us what to do about them. If we look.
I would encourage deeper reflection if one shies away from knowledge of Tehom because one does not 'like' him. Though the Gods are all representing parts of humanity, they are not human, and our affection for any particular deity largely irrelevant. It changes us, because we are adaptable creatures, able to change ourselves continuously. Moving past that to consider what The Thirteenth's deeper purpose is helps us to determine what we might wish to change, as well as how. What the dogma of Tehom would encourage is spending /more/ time, not less, examining the parts of you that make you uncomfortable. For while it is undoubtedly true that one ought not dwell...those who look deep into the Reflection regularly benefit from that constant examination. "Who am I? In what ways am I likely to submit to darker impulses? How can I prevent myself from doing so?" A life un-examined does not necessarily offer up the answers to these questions, nor even the questions themselves. The Thirteenth can deliver many a cautionary tale, and usually it amounts to how important it is to know the self. To honor the God who teaches us to seek that knowledge is hugely important.
The Mirrormasks are always there to add clarity, to listen thoughtfully and serve to counsel those struggling against the darkness, that they may subdue it in order to better know, and be, the light. One can certainly consider themselves to be a reflective person, trying to continuously improve, without paying much heed to the Thirteenth. Yet it remains that His gifts to humanity are real, and as important as those of any other God in the Pantheon.
I would phrase it as you do not need to fear Him. We must fear /ourselves/ for that is where the pitfalls lie...and Tehom is here to show us what to do about them. If we look.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 23, 2018, 1:01 p.m.(8/26/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Josephine
Like a magpie who also enjoys reading legends, I've always wanted a piece of Dragonweep. Would that I could expect to win some now, but I'm not going to count on it. Only to let you know that my husband has promised me one of the gems 'someday', likely when I do something very impressive and the house coffers are well to full. When 'someday' arrives, I'll find you.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 20, 2018, 2:22 p.m.(8/20/1009 AR)
The only thing I would like to graciously point out to those who are so engaged in the discussion of The Thirteenth and the Mirrormasks, is that though many of those of us called to Him are Lycene by birth, many are not. In fact I believe it a bit condescending to suggest that Prince Mydas Ettoire Velenosa is merely discussing his faith in the whites as an aspect of his 'embracing his return to the Lyceum'. I have worked with Mydas for years among Tehom's discipleship, his devotion, focus, and interest in study dating back long before his true identity was known. To imply otherwise is disingenuous and lacking in respect. I might advise those debating to refrain from considering his motivations for his writings, and rather the text itself. A theological discussion need not be so personal.
In addition, our own Archlector is Oathlands born and bred. Though the Lyceum is more comfortable with the Thirteenth, it is a mistake to assume that all of those who have devoted time to studying his teachings all share the same background. We do not.
In addition, our own Archlector is Oathlands born and bred. Though the Lyceum is more comfortable with the Thirteenth, it is a mistake to assume that all of those who have devoted time to studying his teachings all share the same background. We do not.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 20, 2018, 2:15 p.m.(8/20/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Mydas
I was halfway finished with my own entry on the debate that has been going on in the journals about Tehom and the Oathlands Orthodoxy.
Yet there is little I can say that would come out as eloquent as your own responses, Prince Mydas, and thus my interjecting my own thoughts is entirely unnecessary.
Merely know that I am reading your own, and in complete agreement. Even if that comes as no surprise.
Yet there is little I can say that would come out as eloquent as your own responses, Prince Mydas, and thus my interjecting my own thoughts is entirely unnecessary.
Merely know that I am reading your own, and in complete agreement. Even if that comes as no surprise.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 18, 2018, 7:46 p.m.(8/16/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Niklas
'And even Vanora were surviving'
Dear Prince you warm my heart.
Dear Prince you warm my heart.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 13, 2018, 5:50 p.m.(8/4/1009 AR)
I'm so used to being a scandal that when the days come that I'm offered respect it is almost shocking.
Unless it comes out of Velenosa...for the Lyceum has had my back since the start.
But we're all scandals in the south I suppose.
Unless it comes out of Velenosa...for the Lyceum has had my back since the start.
But we're all scandals in the south I suppose.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 13, 2018, 8:41 a.m.(8/3/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Ingvar
It is an absolute delight to have my brother-by-marriage back in Arx again.
He is such an asset to the family in every way, and I know his presence cheers Valdemar and the Grim Duke. Not that Harald is much for showing cheer, but one can tell when he's a little less grim than usual.
He is such an asset to the family in every way, and I know his presence cheers Valdemar and the Grim Duke. Not that Harald is much for showing cheer, but one can tell when he's a little less grim than usual.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 13, 2018, 12:19 a.m.(8/2/1009 AR)
I had three brothers, all a good deal older than me.
They were horrible to me growing up. Bullies all.
One was executed for treason.
Two are naval captains in Setarco's fleet.
I wouldn't cry if I heard they sank to the deeps.
Shall we all share how we feel about our parents next?
They were horrible to me growing up. Bullies all.
One was executed for treason.
Two are naval captains in Setarco's fleet.
I wouldn't cry if I heard they sank to the deeps.
Shall we all share how we feel about our parents next?
Written By Vanora
Sept. 12, 2018, 9:54 p.m.(8/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Eleyna
My friend, I'm sorry for your sadness and your loss.
Remember that there is more than one kind of family. That we have by blood, but also that we make.
Remember that there is more than one kind of family. That we have by blood, but also that we make.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 12, 2018, 1:27 p.m.(8/2/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Lethe
Losing hair combs is a very sad story. I hope that you find or can replace it!
Written By Vanora
Sept. 6, 2018, 9:28 p.m.(7/18/1009 AR)
To My Eldest,
Sweet little Darion. I am writing this letter just for you, so that one day when you are a man grown you will find it tucked away for you and perhaps understand who you are and where you come from in new ways.
Never doubt that I love you. I do with all of my heart and always will. Your father loves you as well, just as much, and in that know you have been fortunate. In many ways you are fortunate, though it might be confusing before it is easy to see.
Everyone's family is different, unique in its own way, and they are part of what shape us. Your father grew up with his own father's wisdom to guide him, and that wisdom saw him learning things he might never have otherwise, seeing places and meeting people that helped him learn the world and his place in it. I grew up with my mother's strange affection and with complicated experiences surrounding my relationship with my own father. Your auntie Isolde and Grand Uncle Niccolo helped me find my way, and I love them for it even still.
About a week ago, give or take, you spent the night with me here at the Grimhall Longhouse for the first time, and you were so happy it melted my heart. It's true that your brothers are incredibly unimpressive right now, and I'm sorry for your disappointment, but I promise you they will grow quickly and before long you three can run around the courtyards together like the thickest of thieves. They will need you, you know. A wise, strong, caring big brother is a very special thing. I had less caring big brothers, but I know you will be good to them.
Whatever complications might arise between now and the day when you can read this letter with your own eyes, merely know this. The most important thing in the world is family. Love your kin, care for them and let them care for you, bolster yourselves against the rest of the world.
I have made many mistakes in my life I'm sure...and have further to make. Yet I've put some good into the world too. You, Arkyn, and Antony...you are that good at its most pure. I am so proud of you.
Sweet little Darion. I am writing this letter just for you, so that one day when you are a man grown you will find it tucked away for you and perhaps understand who you are and where you come from in new ways.
Never doubt that I love you. I do with all of my heart and always will. Your father loves you as well, just as much, and in that know you have been fortunate. In many ways you are fortunate, though it might be confusing before it is easy to see.
Everyone's family is different, unique in its own way, and they are part of what shape us. Your father grew up with his own father's wisdom to guide him, and that wisdom saw him learning things he might never have otherwise, seeing places and meeting people that helped him learn the world and his place in it. I grew up with my mother's strange affection and with complicated experiences surrounding my relationship with my own father. Your auntie Isolde and Grand Uncle Niccolo helped me find my way, and I love them for it even still.
About a week ago, give or take, you spent the night with me here at the Grimhall Longhouse for the first time, and you were so happy it melted my heart. It's true that your brothers are incredibly unimpressive right now, and I'm sorry for your disappointment, but I promise you they will grow quickly and before long you three can run around the courtyards together like the thickest of thieves. They will need you, you know. A wise, strong, caring big brother is a very special thing. I had less caring big brothers, but I know you will be good to them.
Whatever complications might arise between now and the day when you can read this letter with your own eyes, merely know this. The most important thing in the world is family. Love your kin, care for them and let them care for you, bolster yourselves against the rest of the world.
I have made many mistakes in my life I'm sure...and have further to make. Yet I've put some good into the world too. You, Arkyn, and Antony...you are that good at its most pure. I am so proud of you.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 6, 2018, 11:06 a.m.(7/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Donella
Beloved Friend,
I've been thinking of you so often since the other day when I had breakfast with Prince Darren.
Know that I appreciate you, so deeply. Your letters never cease to make me laugh.
Laughing is really the only way to get through it, hmm?
Lets have tea and wine soon.
I've been thinking of you so often since the other day when I had breakfast with Prince Darren.
Know that I appreciate you, so deeply. Your letters never cease to make me laugh.
Laughing is really the only way to get through it, hmm?
Lets have tea and wine soon.
Written By Vanora
Sept. 6, 2018, 11:03 a.m.(7/17/1009 AR)
This week has been one of meditation and consideration.
It is exciting when I have a good deal of enthusiasm for something and can make the excitement catch, I know its common enough, but I often find that my most intense passions are singular things that few other than myself would feel ablaze for.
When I discover that something I am interested in doing, in working on, is the sort of project other people wish to get involved in, it's something of a thrill. Especially when the people who are interested aren't those I already know well. Working towards a common cause is one of the best ways to find kindred spirits.
It is exciting when I have a good deal of enthusiasm for something and can make the excitement catch, I know its common enough, but I often find that my most intense passions are singular things that few other than myself would feel ablaze for.
When I discover that something I am interested in doing, in working on, is the sort of project other people wish to get involved in, it's something of a thrill. Especially when the people who are interested aren't those I already know well. Working towards a common cause is one of the best ways to find kindred spirits.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 31, 2018, 9:46 a.m.(7/1/1009 AR)
Thank you to everyone who came to the Grimhall Spring Feast. We had a wonderful gathering of family and friends, far more of a crowd than I'd expected but we did not run out of food. I think I have proven to the Grim Duke that while I don't have his beloved wife's talents and experience I can still host a dinner party relatively effectively.
To all of our vassals, friends, guests who will surely become friends, thank you for joining us to celebrate the end of spring.
We appreciate your warmth, company, and friendship in difficult times and joyful ones alike.
-V. Grimhall
To all of our vassals, friends, guests who will surely become friends, thank you for joining us to celebrate the end of spring.
We appreciate your warmth, company, and friendship in difficult times and joyful ones alike.
-V. Grimhall
Written By Vanora
Aug. 31, 2018, 9:38 a.m.(7/1/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Adora
I fully endorse Mistress Adora's store, I've purchased several items recently including a gorgeous canopy bed for Valdemar's sister Ingrid when she returns back to Arx.
I'm sure I'll be back now and then, redecorating lifts the spirits when they'd be otherwise low.
I'm sure I'll be back now and then, redecorating lifts the spirits when they'd be otherwise low.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 23, 2018, 12:29 a.m.(6/12/1009 AR)
The sky is dark and the hills are white
As the storm-king speeds from the North to-night
And this is the song the storm-king sings
As over the world his cloak he flings:
"Sleep, sleep, Little One(s) Sleep"
He rustles his wings and gruffly sings,
"Sleep, Little One(s) Sleep"
I don't sing as well as my husband or Father Harald, nor any of their kin really. I can manage to sing to my boys though and not sound terrifying.
This old Isles lullaby the Grim Duke taught me the melody and words to myself. I made 'little one' into "Little Ones" so that both twins could be included.
It doesn't work nearly as well as when their Papa or Grandpa sings them lullabies, Valdemar is often the only one who can get Arkyn to settle into sleep.
Even a month old...they have the same ear as their paternal kin. Impressive.
As the storm-king speeds from the North to-night
And this is the song the storm-king sings
As over the world his cloak he flings:
"Sleep, sleep, Little One(s) Sleep"
He rustles his wings and gruffly sings,
"Sleep, Little One(s) Sleep"
I don't sing as well as my husband or Father Harald, nor any of their kin really. I can manage to sing to my boys though and not sound terrifying.
This old Isles lullaby the Grim Duke taught me the melody and words to myself. I made 'little one' into "Little Ones" so that both twins could be included.
It doesn't work nearly as well as when their Papa or Grandpa sings them lullabies, Valdemar is often the only one who can get Arkyn to settle into sleep.
Even a month old...they have the same ear as their paternal kin. Impressive.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 22, 2018, 12:58 a.m.(6/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Titania
The news is so strange and disturbing that it becomes hard to process.
Lady Titania was as close as kin to me, though we would go long stretches without seeing one another when we did that always snapped back into place.
She was also probably the person I was cruelest too in all of Arx, and she never deserved to be. I show my anger rarely, I try not to become flustered, but twice Titania witnessed me lose my temper completely and they are not moments I am proud of, even if my anger felt right at the time.
I am so pleased that while I know I'm only beginning to miss her...I am not left with deep regrets. The troubles between us were surmounted easily each time, and we were friends to one another, well after we'd ceased to have a real familial link.
I cannot think of a proper bit of holy wisdom or a wise quotation to end this entry with any sort of finality. Perhaps that alone is the ending. What is truly final?
Lady Titania was as close as kin to me, though we would go long stretches without seeing one another when we did that always snapped back into place.
She was also probably the person I was cruelest too in all of Arx, and she never deserved to be. I show my anger rarely, I try not to become flustered, but twice Titania witnessed me lose my temper completely and they are not moments I am proud of, even if my anger felt right at the time.
I am so pleased that while I know I'm only beginning to miss her...I am not left with deep regrets. The troubles between us were surmounted easily each time, and we were friends to one another, well after we'd ceased to have a real familial link.
I cannot think of a proper bit of holy wisdom or a wise quotation to end this entry with any sort of finality. Perhaps that alone is the ending. What is truly final?
Written By Vanora
Aug. 21, 2018, 4:39 p.m.(6/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Fredrik
There is, Count Redtyde, (I hope you very much enjoy the sound of that for a bit longer at least), no need to thank us.
Valdemar and myself were as delighted for the opportunity to be of use to House RedTyde as you were to take us up on it and offer support of your own for our future endeavors. This is the Isles that we need, strong and united for the greater good, and I am proud to have done even the smallest work with you towards that goal.
Just as I am sure all those who threw in their voice and support were similarly pleased and eager. This is a human triumph, and glorious to see.
Do not forget that Grimhall is here for you and RedTyde in efforts beyond this initial push. I hope you and yours will call on us again.
I've not a doubt in the world that you and your kin will accomplish for yourselves everything that you dream to.
Valdemar and myself were as delighted for the opportunity to be of use to House RedTyde as you were to take us up on it and offer support of your own for our future endeavors. This is the Isles that we need, strong and united for the greater good, and I am proud to have done even the smallest work with you towards that goal.
Just as I am sure all those who threw in their voice and support were similarly pleased and eager. This is a human triumph, and glorious to see.
Do not forget that Grimhall is here for you and RedTyde in efforts beyond this initial push. I hope you and yours will call on us again.
I've not a doubt in the world that you and your kin will accomplish for yourselves everything that you dream to.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 20, 2018, 6:49 p.m.(6/7/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Turo
It is accurate to say that my time among the Mourning Islanders has brought many, many new customs, places, and people into my life.
It is accurate to say that not all of these have been pleasant. Some times I fit in better than others. Some personalities clash. Some suspicions remain strong after scandals have quieted.
Among the many whom I have gotten to know, and even to work with, is the Count Turo Navegant. He has at times been of great help to me, and I hope that at some times I've been of at least moderate usefulness to him. We have been allies of a sort, tentatively. Not friends.
The other night however he earned so /much/ of my respect so quickly and so simply. We'd had a heated discussion that left us both feeling insulted by the other, with the Grim Duke and my husband as witnesses to the back and forth.
When we actually sat to speak though...Count Navegant listened. Respectfully, and thoughtfully. I tried to do the same, and to hear where things had gone sour, to understand them, and to apologize for my role in the unpleasantness. He swiftly did the same, and with sincerity. It was not political machination but genuine communication.
I imagine in the future I will listen carefully whenever Count Navegant speaks...for those who are so honest with themselves, so thoughtful, and so loyal, are worth listening to well.
Thank you, Turo.
It is accurate to say that not all of these have been pleasant. Some times I fit in better than others. Some personalities clash. Some suspicions remain strong after scandals have quieted.
Among the many whom I have gotten to know, and even to work with, is the Count Turo Navegant. He has at times been of great help to me, and I hope that at some times I've been of at least moderate usefulness to him. We have been allies of a sort, tentatively. Not friends.
The other night however he earned so /much/ of my respect so quickly and so simply. We'd had a heated discussion that left us both feeling insulted by the other, with the Grim Duke and my husband as witnesses to the back and forth.
When we actually sat to speak though...Count Navegant listened. Respectfully, and thoughtfully. I tried to do the same, and to hear where things had gone sour, to understand them, and to apologize for my role in the unpleasantness. He swiftly did the same, and with sincerity. It was not political machination but genuine communication.
I imagine in the future I will listen carefully whenever Count Navegant speaks...for those who are so honest with themselves, so thoughtful, and so loyal, are worth listening to well.
Thank you, Turo.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 18, 2018, 11:58 p.m.(6/4/1009 AR)
I've written so many things in the whites and the blacks on pain, misery, sorrow. On loss. Reflections that are downright depressing, and part of what I reflect on tonight is that way. I hadn't ever realized how far I'd been from happiness. Moments of joy or laughter maybe, but not the bone deep happy that changes who you are.
This, this year is the first time I have ever truly known happiness in abundance, and it is in /such/ abundance that I ought express how grateful I am. There have been challenges, there always are, but I find that I enjoy them now...I seek them out and hope for them instead of finding them a setback. With every one I have become someone stronger, smarter...more worthy, and I hope that they continue to shape me so.
On the other side of those challenges though, there has been such beauty, such wonder, such love. I may have overindulged mildly in the champagne tonight but that alone doesn't explain my mood. My home does. My family does. My husband, our father, our sons. Friends, allies, and loved ones who have been with us through all of it, with me through all of it.
The next time I am sad, or frightened, I want to remember this. That I've also been blissful, and that I can get back there again. I know the way.
This, this year is the first time I have ever truly known happiness in abundance, and it is in /such/ abundance that I ought express how grateful I am. There have been challenges, there always are, but I find that I enjoy them now...I seek them out and hope for them instead of finding them a setback. With every one I have become someone stronger, smarter...more worthy, and I hope that they continue to shape me so.
On the other side of those challenges though, there has been such beauty, such wonder, such love. I may have overindulged mildly in the champagne tonight but that alone doesn't explain my mood. My home does. My family does. My husband, our father, our sons. Friends, allies, and loved ones who have been with us through all of it, with me through all of it.
The next time I am sad, or frightened, I want to remember this. That I've also been blissful, and that I can get back there again. I know the way.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.