Written By Reigna
Oct. 24, 2019, 10:23 a.m.(1/26/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
That is a very compelling subject, and your question sent my mind immediately seeking an answer for such a quandary.
I think, were I charged with the task of eulogizing someone who embraced a way of life that I found personally abhorrent, I would look to find what good qualities they might have had and lift those up at first, praise the good done to soften the blow of what is to come next. When you say that to lie before the gods is an insult you are absolutely correct. While truth is often a subjective thing, it is imperative that we speak our truth to those around us, and ever to the gods, lest we sully our integrity. Lies are anathema to our society. If one cannot trust you to speak the truth, then how can they trust anything you say? No one wants to insult those that loved and lost someone dear to them, but the truth, painful as it may be, is in my opinion preferable to even a well-meaning obfuscation of fact. Instead of delivering a speech railing at the deceased's flaws, I would try to phrase it in such a way as to teach a lesson about what not to do. Gently, tactfully, of course. Speak on how the actions guided others in strengthening their faith in what paths not to take?
As I write this out, I see the forking paths and all the traps and dangers and how very easy offense can be given. Ugh. I have empathy for you, Father Aureth. Yours is no easy task. But I do believe that you, surely one of the most eloquent writers and speakers I have had the pleasure of being an audience to will find your way. Life, and the pain that comes with it, is the greatest teacher of all.
I think, were I charged with the task of eulogizing someone who embraced a way of life that I found personally abhorrent, I would look to find what good qualities they might have had and lift those up at first, praise the good done to soften the blow of what is to come next. When you say that to lie before the gods is an insult you are absolutely correct. While truth is often a subjective thing, it is imperative that we speak our truth to those around us, and ever to the gods, lest we sully our integrity. Lies are anathema to our society. If one cannot trust you to speak the truth, then how can they trust anything you say? No one wants to insult those that loved and lost someone dear to them, but the truth, painful as it may be, is in my opinion preferable to even a well-meaning obfuscation of fact. Instead of delivering a speech railing at the deceased's flaws, I would try to phrase it in such a way as to teach a lesson about what not to do. Gently, tactfully, of course. Speak on how the actions guided others in strengthening their faith in what paths not to take?
As I write this out, I see the forking paths and all the traps and dangers and how very easy offense can be given. Ugh. I have empathy for you, Father Aureth. Yours is no easy task. But I do believe that you, surely one of the most eloquent writers and speakers I have had the pleasure of being an audience to will find your way. Life, and the pain that comes with it, is the greatest teacher of all.
Written By Teagan
Oct. 24, 2019, 9:45 a.m.(1/26/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
As I sit and reflect in the Shrine of the Thirteenth, I ask that journals be brought to me. Mostly those by friends and people whose opinions I respect. Interesting that I find within Sir Preston's history of Marach: a topic that I have studied recently, myself. Perhaps it is a bit of history I should not be looking into, it is true. But it is history nonetheless and there are lessons to be learned from it. His journals have led me to Rinel's and though I do not know them, I am curious to speak with them at some point.
It would seem that the gods have chosen me to undertake my devotions and my path further with the Scholars at just the right time: this conversation happening at the same time that I was studying the same topic. Things happen, as they say, for a reason.
It certainly gives me something to reflect upon.
It would seem that the gods have chosen me to undertake my devotions and my path further with the Scholars at just the right time: this conversation happening at the same time that I was studying the same topic. Things happen, as they say, for a reason.
It certainly gives me something to reflect upon.
Written By Preston
Oct. 24, 2019, 8:20 a.m.(1/26/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Sparte
It is a most wise observation - it is possible for two people, observing their oaths, to come into conflict. This is true of most wars in the compact - where lords raise their banners, and honour bound their vassals answer. And honour bound they march to war against others called by their liege whose only connection to this conflict may be that oath of honour. It is hard to say either is evil in such a conflict, honour is a path we must walk - but it is a path that is good for our soul, it is not a path that guarantees the survival of our body.
The most difficult thing must always be where such conflicts arise within one person - where oaths made come into conflict. So it was in the siege of the Great Archive in the Crusade of the Broken Mirrors. When we speak of the Templars against the Knights of the Library, we can equally say the Templars against the Templars. The Templar Knights take additional Oaths to become Knights of the Library, but are Templars and those new oaths to defend the Archive are taken in addition to those taken as Templars. It was Brother against Brother, Sister against Sister. That is why I refer to it as a tragedy in many ways - the Knights of the Library were convinced by Marach, as the Scholars were, that their vows to Vellichor required refusal of the orders of the Carnifex. But they were also sworn to obey the commands of their order. So. Whichever path they took, they obeyed one vow and in so doing broke another. There are few accounts of that battle, none I have seen. It would not have been long - against the gathered might of the Templars, even in defense of a building I do not think once the defenses were breached they could have lasted long. But also, it was not a battle to be celebrated. It is not a battle we choose to remember.
The most difficult thing must always be where such conflicts arise within one person - where oaths made come into conflict. So it was in the siege of the Great Archive in the Crusade of the Broken Mirrors. When we speak of the Templars against the Knights of the Library, we can equally say the Templars against the Templars. The Templar Knights take additional Oaths to become Knights of the Library, but are Templars and those new oaths to defend the Archive are taken in addition to those taken as Templars. It was Brother against Brother, Sister against Sister. That is why I refer to it as a tragedy in many ways - the Knights of the Library were convinced by Marach, as the Scholars were, that their vows to Vellichor required refusal of the orders of the Carnifex. But they were also sworn to obey the commands of their order. So. Whichever path they took, they obeyed one vow and in so doing broke another. There are few accounts of that battle, none I have seen. It would not have been long - against the gathered might of the Templars, even in defense of a building I do not think once the defenses were breached they could have lasted long. But also, it was not a battle to be celebrated. It is not a battle we choose to remember.
Written By Shard
Oct. 24, 2019, 5:36 a.m.(1/26/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Aureth
You tell their story, good and bad and everything in-between. You can't sum up an entire life in that short time, but you can make a try at it. You can tell as much truth as circumstances allow. Stories about how they were heroes or monsters are things that come after they're ash, when people start trying to piece together the things they miss, or the things they're glad are gone, or the things they want to pass on to other people as examples. A dead person should have a shot at their life being told honestly, at least once.
But then, I'm not a priest. The only eulogy I've given was to a bunch of rowdy, drunken sellswords after an unwise amount of whiskey. I'm not sure how true it ended up being.
But then, I'm not a priest. The only eulogy I've given was to a bunch of rowdy, drunken sellswords after an unwise amount of whiskey. I'm not sure how true it ended up being.
Written By Aureth
Oct. 23, 2019, 10:53 p.m.(1/25/1012 AR)
What truths come in a eulogy that may come at no other time? When you write of the life a person has lived, and you must encapsulate memory for the goodwill of the mourners, does it matter what is true in fact?
It does the dead no honor to pretend they had virtues other than they had in life, nor does it do the mourners any honor to veil their beloved in fiction. Yet a eulogy is no place for an excoriation.
What do you do, if you must embrace a life that carried in it much to detest in order to do your duty to the public? Do you find the good in a person and ignore the bad entirely? Do you speak truth to those who wish only to mourn the one they loved? It is a sophistry that not all fictions are lies and that courtesy in itself is a cloak that ill-behooves any who must stand in a public face.
Yet no one who has died lived a life wholly without redeeming quality. No one is all evil, any more than anyone is all good. People are not simple and no life can truly be wound into a twenty minute speech before the altar of the Queen.
If the eulogy is a prayer to Death, the truth is necessary. It may be framed politely but it must not be elided completely. Lying to the gods is nothing more or less than insult. But Death will take the soul of even the worst among us. For she granted us those souls, and will take that weaving of hers back unto herself, as only the Mother of Beginnings might: for all things must end, so that they may begin again.
If the eulogy is a performative work for the audience of the mourners, then I think the matter becomes debatable. When does compassion become foolishness? When does empathy become enablement?
It's a question much on my mind of late.
It does the dead no honor to pretend they had virtues other than they had in life, nor does it do the mourners any honor to veil their beloved in fiction. Yet a eulogy is no place for an excoriation.
What do you do, if you must embrace a life that carried in it much to detest in order to do your duty to the public? Do you find the good in a person and ignore the bad entirely? Do you speak truth to those who wish only to mourn the one they loved? It is a sophistry that not all fictions are lies and that courtesy in itself is a cloak that ill-behooves any who must stand in a public face.
Yet no one who has died lived a life wholly without redeeming quality. No one is all evil, any more than anyone is all good. People are not simple and no life can truly be wound into a twenty minute speech before the altar of the Queen.
If the eulogy is a prayer to Death, the truth is necessary. It may be framed politely but it must not be elided completely. Lying to the gods is nothing more or less than insult. But Death will take the soul of even the worst among us. For she granted us those souls, and will take that weaving of hers back unto herself, as only the Mother of Beginnings might: for all things must end, so that they may begin again.
If the eulogy is a performative work for the audience of the mourners, then I think the matter becomes debatable. When does compassion become foolishness? When does empathy become enablement?
It's a question much on my mind of late.
Written By Rysen
Oct. 23, 2019, 6:55 p.m.(1/25/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Aethan
I was pleased and saddened to read that Lord Aethan, by the elevation of his House, must end his formal relationship with Princess Gwenna of House Redrain. He has been an irreplaceable friend to the Northlands, and nothing will ever change the place of respect and esteem that my homeland holds for him.
I had been traveling from Stormwall with Lady Icelyn Acheron, when we stopped in Graywater Bay on our way south to Pearlspire and then to Arx. Lady Icelyn and I had taken rest in an inn, and sat down in the common room to enjoy some stew and ale, before getting some rest, when a bard took his place by the fire, and began to play an ancient folk tune on his harp. The music itself was beautiful and moving beyond measure, and it was not long before a woman of a certain age, with a mist of times forever past swirling before her eyes, said to a man sitting beside us, "Ah, that wars th' favorite song o' me boy Aerlin 'fore he passed."
"Aye, an' me Jennayia too," came the age'ed man's reply. "She used to play it on my grandmama's harp, and now I 'spect they're together with th' spirits, may the Queen guard their souls." And so the recollections passed between the folk at the table, recalling lost wives, husbands, brothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, sons and daughters, till the woman who first spoke stood up with her cup of mead raised high in the air. "May the gods and spirits damn the Undrowned Sons to the abyss forever!" she shouted, "and may they bless Lord Aethan and the Warchief!!" The entire inn was then filled with the sound of stomping feet, pounding fists, and the cheers of voices young and old.
I had been traveling from Stormwall with Lady Icelyn Acheron, when we stopped in Graywater Bay on our way south to Pearlspire and then to Arx. Lady Icelyn and I had taken rest in an inn, and sat down in the common room to enjoy some stew and ale, before getting some rest, when a bard took his place by the fire, and began to play an ancient folk tune on his harp. The music itself was beautiful and moving beyond measure, and it was not long before a woman of a certain age, with a mist of times forever past swirling before her eyes, said to a man sitting beside us, "Ah, that wars th' favorite song o' me boy Aerlin 'fore he passed."
"Aye, an' me Jennayia too," came the age'ed man's reply. "She used to play it on my grandmama's harp, and now I 'spect they're together with th' spirits, may the Queen guard their souls." And so the recollections passed between the folk at the table, recalling lost wives, husbands, brothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, sons and daughters, till the woman who first spoke stood up with her cup of mead raised high in the air. "May the gods and spirits damn the Undrowned Sons to the abyss forever!" she shouted, "and may they bless Lord Aethan and the Warchief!!" The entire inn was then filled with the sound of stomping feet, pounding fists, and the cheers of voices young and old.
Written By Donella
Oct. 23, 2019, 4:44 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Darren
The cold brings to me a time of reflection. I have not written in my journal for some time, but I feel it is time to take up my pen again. There is much going on in the world around us, but I cannot help but feel blessed where I am in it.
Darren and I went out to have a meal within the lands of Redrain quarter. It was amazing to see how my handsome husband speaks to his people. I wonder if they see the deep affection that he holds for them. If it was not enough, he came home to deal with our children. It allowed me a night to not have to worry to their needs. I am not sure what I did to bring this man to me, but I thank the Gods for him.
Also, I am not sure how he got a reputation for this 'dad bod' but it is quite pleasing to his wife. It needs not be to anyone else; I am quite content with my winter bear.
Darren and I went out to have a meal within the lands of Redrain quarter. It was amazing to see how my handsome husband speaks to his people. I wonder if they see the deep affection that he holds for them. If it was not enough, he came home to deal with our children. It allowed me a night to not have to worry to their needs. I am not sure what I did to bring this man to me, but I thank the Gods for him.
Also, I am not sure how he got a reputation for this 'dad bod' but it is quite pleasing to his wife. It needs not be to anyone else; I am quite content with my winter bear.
Written By Arcadia
Oct. 23, 2019, 4:35 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Sina
As much as I detest books, I swear that I did not cause the mayhem in the stacks.
Archlector Sina's wrath scares me too much to even want to put a book back wrong.
Archlector Sina's wrath scares me too much to even want to put a book back wrong.
Written By Sorrel
Oct. 23, 2019, 4:27 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Every time I step into the Telmar Gauntlet, I am reminded of how hard I worked on sword forms as a child. And no matter how many times I practice the Gauntlet, it seems that I will never get up that rope in a timely fashion. I'm always too exhausted by the challenges that come before.
I probably shouldn't sing when I practice, but it makes me happier, and no one's ever managed to keep me from singing when I worked out anyway.
I probably shouldn't sing when I practice, but it makes me happier, and no one's ever managed to keep me from singing when I worked out anyway.
Written By Rinel
Oct. 23, 2019, 4:23 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
The insight of the Grandmaster into such matters is, as ever, appreciated. None can doubt the devotion and zeal embodied in the leader of the Templars, and we as a Compact are all the stronger for their constant vigilance against threats to the Faith.
Yet I must correct the Grandmaster on one issue of fact--heretical writings of the Dominus Marach remain, found at times in the strangest of locations. For while those sworn to Lord Vellichor and Lady Gloria alike--let us not forget the presence of the Knights of the Library--bled and died in defense of knowledge, others did what they could to secret away documents that would arouse the wrath of the Orthodox. The Great Archive is too vast for even the flames of the Abyss to scour utterly; it was and remains beyond the capacity of mortal hands to break.
And so I must reurge in full my earlier journal. We worship all the Gods. But our vows are made to the God of History, and those who threaten the knowledge of His Archive, no matter how noble their intention, we shall oppose, no matter the consequence. We honour Lord Limerance in our devotion. We honour Lady Gloria in our zeal. And, should we fall as our predecessors did, we shall honour Lady Death as we are received into Her waiting arms.
For to everyone within the Dream, death shall come, soon or late. And no scholar can die better than facing fearful odds, for the knowledge of the Archive and the temples of her Gods.
((OOC: Apologies to Macaulay. I regret nothing.))
Yet I must correct the Grandmaster on one issue of fact--heretical writings of the Dominus Marach remain, found at times in the strangest of locations. For while those sworn to Lord Vellichor and Lady Gloria alike--let us not forget the presence of the Knights of the Library--bled and died in defense of knowledge, others did what they could to secret away documents that would arouse the wrath of the Orthodox. The Great Archive is too vast for even the flames of the Abyss to scour utterly; it was and remains beyond the capacity of mortal hands to break.
And so I must reurge in full my earlier journal. We worship all the Gods. But our vows are made to the God of History, and those who threaten the knowledge of His Archive, no matter how noble their intention, we shall oppose, no matter the consequence. We honour Lord Limerance in our devotion. We honour Lady Gloria in our zeal. And, should we fall as our predecessors did, we shall honour Lady Death as we are received into Her waiting arms.
For to everyone within the Dream, death shall come, soon or late. And no scholar can die better than facing fearful odds, for the knowledge of the Archive and the temples of her Gods.
((OOC: Apologies to Macaulay. I regret nothing.))
Written By Sparte
Oct. 23, 2019, 3:19 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
In recent journals by two people I respect, the conflict during the Crusade of Broken Mirrors where Templars crossed swords with the Knights of the Library has been reopened. To what purpose and reasoning I do not know, but I feel it worthwhile to add a brief contribution for the clarity of those delving through the whites about those events. I do this as a Scholar and Disciple.
My contribution is on the nature of our oaths and vows. While each have distinctions, I will refer to both as oaths for brevity. I feel both fall under what I wish to share, and an honorable person would treat both with the same strength.
Our oaths can put us in conflict with one another, even when given with good intent and for the same purpose. It is a risk we must accept when we devote ourselves. Even were two to give oaths to the same cause or person, the wording of those oaths may put them in conflict.
I believe the historic example in discussion was such a case. The Templars were bound, as were the Knights of the Library and the Scholars, to action. Action to purge heresy, and action to protect knowledge. That brought them into an unfortunate conflict, but it would have been worse would one or the other simply stood aside. Certainly the Templars were the stronger force, and surely history remembers their victory for that truth. Yet because ideals were upheld, because oaths were kept, this sad moment in history did not diminish the value of those oaths for future generations.
This was not the only, or even the most recent such challenge to the faithful. In the time of the Crownbreaker Wars we faced what is remembered as the Crownbreaker Schism. In that time we had two Dominus rise, and both excommunicate one another.
History remembers the victor and the Reformation of the faith. History tells us who was right and who was wrong in that conflict, and as history is often written by the victor, I know of no accounts that conflict. What I do know, is that there was knowledge once more lost to us because of that, in an effort to once more purge what was seen as heresy. Only this time, too many who would have defended knowledge had already been put to the sword by King Darius Thrax.
Imagine, if you will, those who were not at the heart of that conflict. Those who did not have the clarity history or first hand knowledge of events offer. Imagine yourself the seraphs of a small village, or another faithful far removed in the countryside. News comes, and you are suddenly facing two claiming the authority to speak for the gods. Each with their own claim to authority, urging you to reject the other. Whether written in good faith or with lies, imagine facing that choice while trying to keep the oaths and ideals of your faith.
I do not presume to know which answer I would have given, I only hope knowledge of our history will aid others if ever they face such a choice.
My contribution is on the nature of our oaths and vows. While each have distinctions, I will refer to both as oaths for brevity. I feel both fall under what I wish to share, and an honorable person would treat both with the same strength.
Our oaths can put us in conflict with one another, even when given with good intent and for the same purpose. It is a risk we must accept when we devote ourselves. Even were two to give oaths to the same cause or person, the wording of those oaths may put them in conflict.
I believe the historic example in discussion was such a case. The Templars were bound, as were the Knights of the Library and the Scholars, to action. Action to purge heresy, and action to protect knowledge. That brought them into an unfortunate conflict, but it would have been worse would one or the other simply stood aside. Certainly the Templars were the stronger force, and surely history remembers their victory for that truth. Yet because ideals were upheld, because oaths were kept, this sad moment in history did not diminish the value of those oaths for future generations.
This was not the only, or even the most recent such challenge to the faithful. In the time of the Crownbreaker Wars we faced what is remembered as the Crownbreaker Schism. In that time we had two Dominus rise, and both excommunicate one another.
History remembers the victor and the Reformation of the faith. History tells us who was right and who was wrong in that conflict, and as history is often written by the victor, I know of no accounts that conflict. What I do know, is that there was knowledge once more lost to us because of that, in an effort to once more purge what was seen as heresy. Only this time, too many who would have defended knowledge had already been put to the sword by King Darius Thrax.
Imagine, if you will, those who were not at the heart of that conflict. Those who did not have the clarity history or first hand knowledge of events offer. Imagine yourself the seraphs of a small village, or another faithful far removed in the countryside. News comes, and you are suddenly facing two claiming the authority to speak for the gods. Each with their own claim to authority, urging you to reject the other. Whether written in good faith or with lies, imagine facing that choice while trying to keep the oaths and ideals of your faith.
I do not presume to know which answer I would have given, I only hope knowledge of our history will aid others if ever they face such a choice.
Written By Vincenzo
Oct. 23, 2019, 2:55 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Preston
Evil, no matter how small or where found, needs to be fought and eradicated. It's been over a year now since the Grandmaster let me have a taste of being a Templar. I've been assisting with supplies, crafters and economics. But given my last trip and what has been happening, I'm thinking I should take the next step, whatever that might be.
Written By Sparte
Oct. 23, 2019, 2:19 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
I don't know who needs to read this, but please do not toss buckets of saltwater on the streets in an attempt to get rid of the current ice and snow.
You will just make the street worse for everyone and it will smell like a fish market. Yes, salt helps control ice. To a point. That isn't how you do it, and it doesn't work when it gets this cold besides.
You will just make the street worse for everyone and it will smell like a fish market. Yes, salt helps control ice. To a point. That isn't how you do it, and it doesn't work when it gets this cold besides.
Written By Elisha
Oct. 23, 2019, 12:04 p.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
How does the
shepherd
find new pastures?
When the lambs
wander,
she calls the wolves.
(We know that
wolves, too,
require feeding.)
Serve first the
hunger
of predators.
shepherd
find new pastures?
When the lambs
wander,
she calls the wolves.
(We know that
wolves, too,
require feeding.)
Serve first the
hunger
of predators.
Written By Edward
Oct. 23, 2019, 10:59 a.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
My loyal shadow informed me there was a collapse in the archives...I said to her that is the problem with books, all spines and no bones. She threw a cup at me.
Written By Preston
Oct. 23, 2019, 6:36 a.m.(1/24/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Rinel
Your knowledge of our past and history is always most impressive, Rinel.
Though let me point out two things - some of Marach's teachings survive, but not all. It was never the case that /all/ Marach ever uttered was heresy, but that his teachings crossed a line and he refused to heed to the calls of the Faith. I am sure some have tried - and dedicated researchers such as yourself might be tempted to try - to attempt to recreate Marach's teachings, though I would caution this on two fronts. The first is that the danger in his words has not changed in all these years and it is a path that is almost certain to end with suffering. The second is that the view of the Orthodoxy has not changed since its founding on these matters. I realise it is fashionable for some to play chicken with the patience of the Faith, and I know you yourself are smart enough not to try nor would you encourage recklessness, but I will say bluntly that any who try will suffer the same fate. Perhaps a better lesson from Marach is this - no one is beyond the will of the Faith.
The second is that you take a lesson from those who stood in the Archive against Carnifex Alor Valardin, blessed be his memory. That not even a Carnifex of the Faith could make knowledge step aside - I might quibble perhaps if what Marach offered was knowledge, or simply temptation to evil wrapped in undeniably clever words. I point out the outcome for those men and women, in sorrow for such events should be remembered with sadness. They died, Rinel. Those who did not die had their arm forced onto a block, their writing hand cleaved from their body, and their tongue pulled and cut out from a hot dagger. Carnifex Alor Valardin took the Archive, as was his holy duty. The teachings were removed. And the great work of the Censor Librorum continues to this day.
But we are likely confusing poor scholars and any readers with odd archaic terms and history long since consigned to books and dust. So what I will say to you, and to others who read this, is what I am sure we both agree on. Just as the Faith is a beautiful choir of voices and views, within the limits so set, so it is with the Gods. That they are a choir, an ensemble. You can take one God on their own, their voice will be strong, powerful, their song line one of beauty, but only when listening to them all do you get the full effect of their melodies. Just as it is with their commands and their demands. Each moderated by one another, altering and changing when considered as part of the whole.
Though let me point out two things - some of Marach's teachings survive, but not all. It was never the case that /all/ Marach ever uttered was heresy, but that his teachings crossed a line and he refused to heed to the calls of the Faith. I am sure some have tried - and dedicated researchers such as yourself might be tempted to try - to attempt to recreate Marach's teachings, though I would caution this on two fronts. The first is that the danger in his words has not changed in all these years and it is a path that is almost certain to end with suffering. The second is that the view of the Orthodoxy has not changed since its founding on these matters. I realise it is fashionable for some to play chicken with the patience of the Faith, and I know you yourself are smart enough not to try nor would you encourage recklessness, but I will say bluntly that any who try will suffer the same fate. Perhaps a better lesson from Marach is this - no one is beyond the will of the Faith.
The second is that you take a lesson from those who stood in the Archive against Carnifex Alor Valardin, blessed be his memory. That not even a Carnifex of the Faith could make knowledge step aside - I might quibble perhaps if what Marach offered was knowledge, or simply temptation to evil wrapped in undeniably clever words. I point out the outcome for those men and women, in sorrow for such events should be remembered with sadness. They died, Rinel. Those who did not die had their arm forced onto a block, their writing hand cleaved from their body, and their tongue pulled and cut out from a hot dagger. Carnifex Alor Valardin took the Archive, as was his holy duty. The teachings were removed. And the great work of the Censor Librorum continues to this day.
But we are likely confusing poor scholars and any readers with odd archaic terms and history long since consigned to books and dust. So what I will say to you, and to others who read this, is what I am sure we both agree on. Just as the Faith is a beautiful choir of voices and views, within the limits so set, so it is with the Gods. That they are a choir, an ensemble. You can take one God on their own, their voice will be strong, powerful, their song line one of beauty, but only when listening to them all do you get the full effect of their melodies. Just as it is with their commands and their demands. Each moderated by one another, altering and changing when considered as part of the whole.
Written By Vincenzo
Oct. 23, 2019, 2:29 a.m.(1/23/1012 AR)
Thorn and I went to Cascade Springs, checking on my shop up there and the fledgling bustling village to see if there were things still needed beyond the initial investment. An opportunity of sorts to reconnect to nature where walls don’t exist except for huge mountains.
Hearing stories of some famed hot springs and big game out in the forests, we went to explore with a Redrain barge pilot. We found what became the ruins of Riversbend. Every last one of those villagers there were killed brutally. Needless to say, we were nearly captured ourselves by some very odd Abandoned; however we put them and huge snow leopards to rest. We lost our guide in the process. The village had to be cleansed, and we righted a terrible wrong.
I’m reminded of the Queen though, from one ending comes a new beginning. Riversbend is lost, but Wigne’s Solace has been found. A potential outpost against the dark forest.
I’m looking to speak with the Halfshav house as soon as possible though.
Hearing stories of some famed hot springs and big game out in the forests, we went to explore with a Redrain barge pilot. We found what became the ruins of Riversbend. Every last one of those villagers there were killed brutally. Needless to say, we were nearly captured ourselves by some very odd Abandoned; however we put them and huge snow leopards to rest. We lost our guide in the process. The village had to be cleansed, and we righted a terrible wrong.
I’m reminded of the Queen though, from one ending comes a new beginning. Riversbend is lost, but Wigne’s Solace has been found. A potential outpost against the dark forest.
I’m looking to speak with the Halfshav house as soon as possible though.
Written By Rinel
Oct. 22, 2019, 11:24 p.m.(1/23/1012 AR)
The Great Archive of Lord Vellichor contains a wealth of knowledge and history, which we as disciples of the God of History are oathbound to preserve. Much that resides within that Archive can lead a woman off the path of the Faith. When one includes the frequent errors found in the White Journals, and the vast scholarship regarding the Marachian Heresy, a reasonable argument can be made that, writ large, the contents of the Archive are more likely to lead an untrained mind toward heresy, not away from it.
For is it not written by no less a man than the Carnifex Alor Valardin himself-- "We cannot build the foundations of faith by shaking them. We cannot build a world of hope by instilling doubt. We cannot demand honor while suggesting dishonorable methods. I will not see the Faith corrupted. I declare the Dominus Marach's teachings an apostasy, and demand that they be destroyed."
Yet we preserve these errors--and errors far more dangerous besides--by holy demand. For in the darkest hours of the Reckoning, the Lord Vellichor appeared to humanity and granted us gifts beyond measure. So it is written in His holy Canticle. So, too, is written the charge which He placed upon us:
"Let the most studious amongst you take sacred vow to forever guard the knowledge of the world, and allow all among you from the greatest to the least to chronicle their lives in journals so their knowledge may never be lost. Guard it well."
I have sworn an vow before Gods and humanity to collect and protect this knowledge. Knowledge that is frequently in error. Knowledge that, at times, ventures into heresy. That vow cannot be countermanded by mortals, and I will not allow myself to be released from it. Those who fear the Archive are right to do so, for it contains the unutterable danger of truth and lies combined. But this danger is not rectified, as the Orthodox falsely believe, by the destruction of knowledge. Knowledge is not ever truly lost, and that which grows but wilted in the light of day may send forth thorns and choking tendrils in darkness.
If we fear heresy, it is not a madman who must be silenced. It is our people who must be taught. For great though the Carnifex Alor was, and great the might of his Crusade, the teachings of Marach yet survive--as warning to the masses, and as dangerous but fruitful inspiration to those well-versed in the ways of the Gods. Let the defense of the Great Archive during the Crusade against Marach serve as warning to all who would seek to destroy knowledge, for not even a Carnifex--appointed in holy duty to the Faith by the Dominus and Legates themselves--could force the Scholars of Lord Vellichor or the Knights of His Holy Library to step aside.
Our vows transcend the mortal realm. They are not for other humans to amend.
For is it not written by no less a man than the Carnifex Alor Valardin himself-- "We cannot build the foundations of faith by shaking them. We cannot build a world of hope by instilling doubt. We cannot demand honor while suggesting dishonorable methods. I will not see the Faith corrupted. I declare the Dominus Marach's teachings an apostasy, and demand that they be destroyed."
Yet we preserve these errors--and errors far more dangerous besides--by holy demand. For in the darkest hours of the Reckoning, the Lord Vellichor appeared to humanity and granted us gifts beyond measure. So it is written in His holy Canticle. So, too, is written the charge which He placed upon us:
"Let the most studious amongst you take sacred vow to forever guard the knowledge of the world, and allow all among you from the greatest to the least to chronicle their lives in journals so their knowledge may never be lost. Guard it well."
I have sworn an vow before Gods and humanity to collect and protect this knowledge. Knowledge that is frequently in error. Knowledge that, at times, ventures into heresy. That vow cannot be countermanded by mortals, and I will not allow myself to be released from it. Those who fear the Archive are right to do so, for it contains the unutterable danger of truth and lies combined. But this danger is not rectified, as the Orthodox falsely believe, by the destruction of knowledge. Knowledge is not ever truly lost, and that which grows but wilted in the light of day may send forth thorns and choking tendrils in darkness.
If we fear heresy, it is not a madman who must be silenced. It is our people who must be taught. For great though the Carnifex Alor was, and great the might of his Crusade, the teachings of Marach yet survive--as warning to the masses, and as dangerous but fruitful inspiration to those well-versed in the ways of the Gods. Let the defense of the Great Archive during the Crusade against Marach serve as warning to all who would seek to destroy knowledge, for not even a Carnifex--appointed in holy duty to the Faith by the Dominus and Legates themselves--could force the Scholars of Lord Vellichor or the Knights of His Holy Library to step aside.
Our vows transcend the mortal realm. They are not for other humans to amend.
Written By Sydney
Oct. 22, 2019, 7:52 p.m.(1/23/1012 AR)
I'm not a poet.
And seemingly, I'm one of the few not terrified of them or scandalized by them. Take your sheep, your lambs, your wolves, and set them to thinking about things that actually threaten Arx, not your egos.
A tall order that might require difficult decisions and thoughts rather than whinging about words.
Perhaps that's what motivates such actions. A tiny little thorn you can pick at to ignore the nipping at your heels.
And seemingly, I'm one of the few not terrified of them or scandalized by them. Take your sheep, your lambs, your wolves, and set them to thinking about things that actually threaten Arx, not your egos.
A tall order that might require difficult decisions and thoughts rather than whinging about words.
Perhaps that's what motivates such actions. A tiny little thorn you can pick at to ignore the nipping at your heels.
Written By Rysen
Oct. 22, 2019, 5:07 p.m.(1/22/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Rukhnis
Ode to the Assistant Guildmaster of the Physicians
Rise! O star from distant dunes!
Who traveled far 'neath sun and moon,
Who faced with strong and upright heart
Untold woe till meeting here in Arx,
When choosing free to join my House,
You've showered it in great renown,
Where countless wounds, and plagues, and pain
You banished with skilled medicine,
Till Lagoma's bright and chosen flame
Has with heartfelt pride proclaimed
Your service to the Compact's folk,
Whether noble or the lowest born,
All you aid with patient grace -
My own among the lives you've saved.
Rise! O brilliant, blazing star!
Our love from you will never part!
Rise! O star from distant dunes!
Who traveled far 'neath sun and moon,
Who faced with strong and upright heart
Untold woe till meeting here in Arx,
When choosing free to join my House,
You've showered it in great renown,
Where countless wounds, and plagues, and pain
You banished with skilled medicine,
Till Lagoma's bright and chosen flame
Has with heartfelt pride proclaimed
Your service to the Compact's folk,
Whether noble or the lowest born,
All you aid with patient grace -
My own among the lives you've saved.
Rise! O brilliant, blazing star!
Our love from you will never part!
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.