Written By Rysen
March 7, 2019, 11:39 a.m.(9/12/1010 AR)
A woman named Rukhnis, who had been traveling with some performers, has recently joined my service. The circumstances under which we met testify to her will and resolve - the same will and resolve which she displays in denying my attempts to persuade her into some more profitable labor than serving a lord whose greatest ambition lies in dying on a battlefield. Her origins remain a mystery.
She accompanied me to The Spirits to meet with Marquessa Eilonwy Blackwood. There I hoped to gain her consent to represent her actions in a verse narrative - one which I'm hoping to perform for the upcoming Taste of Arx event hosted by Princess Elgana. The entire narrative is composed in the grand style - something closer to the epic than the lyric. Needless to say, the stanzas I recited sounded insane out of context, but Lady Eilonwy allowed herself to be convinced that it would sound less so in its entirety. For that, I am truly grateful - and even more so for the deeds she performed in the defense of Stormwall.
While I can make some apologies for the length of the poem and its numerous other defects, I will not apologize for its elevated style. Marquessa Eilonwy, as true heroes often do, pointed to the actions of others instead of her own - but the truth is that, without her, I and countless others would have been blotted out forever from the books of life. A defeat to the forces of The Gyre would have meant annihilation - of all culture, memory and free will - and the reduction of all my people to a single instinct to feed. Her courage is the foundation of my House, along with that of countless others who joined in the defense of Stormwall: Princess Marian, Sir Preston, Petal Penrose, Lady Eirlys... Eirlys. Gods and Spirits, I hope in the end, it's something of which she would approve.
She accompanied me to The Spirits to meet with Marquessa Eilonwy Blackwood. There I hoped to gain her consent to represent her actions in a verse narrative - one which I'm hoping to perform for the upcoming Taste of Arx event hosted by Princess Elgana. The entire narrative is composed in the grand style - something closer to the epic than the lyric. Needless to say, the stanzas I recited sounded insane out of context, but Lady Eilonwy allowed herself to be convinced that it would sound less so in its entirety. For that, I am truly grateful - and even more so for the deeds she performed in the defense of Stormwall.
While I can make some apologies for the length of the poem and its numerous other defects, I will not apologize for its elevated style. Marquessa Eilonwy, as true heroes often do, pointed to the actions of others instead of her own - but the truth is that, without her, I and countless others would have been blotted out forever from the books of life. A defeat to the forces of The Gyre would have meant annihilation - of all culture, memory and free will - and the reduction of all my people to a single instinct to feed. Her courage is the foundation of my House, along with that of countless others who joined in the defense of Stormwall: Princess Marian, Sir Preston, Petal Penrose, Lady Eirlys... Eirlys. Gods and Spirits, I hope in the end, it's something of which she would approve.
Written By Rysen
March 6, 2019, 11:21 a.m.(9/10/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Skye
Because every true hero deserves a bardic song dedicated to her memory:
Amid the dancing candle light,
She brought her paints and brush
To her gorgeous daughter’s room
While the sleeping house was hushed.
Together wrought them artwork
On the young girl’s bedroom wall -
Reds and blues and yellow hues
That on the mother’s gown did fall,
And in those shinning eyes there lit
A feeling none mistake:
The strong love of a mother
For her daughter while they paint,
But time is ever gnawing
Upon our mortal frames,
And piece by piece she withered,
But naught touched her inner flame,
For even as her time grew near,
A smile warmed her face;
Though her body burned in agony,
She’d not be bowed by pain,
And left a potent legacy,
A foundation for her line:
Deep roots of love immortal,
Untouched by flight of time.
Amid the dancing candle light,
She brought her paints and brush
To her gorgeous daughter’s room
While the sleeping house was hushed.
Together wrought them artwork
On the young girl’s bedroom wall -
Reds and blues and yellow hues
That on the mother’s gown did fall,
And in those shinning eyes there lit
A feeling none mistake:
The strong love of a mother
For her daughter while they paint,
But time is ever gnawing
Upon our mortal frames,
And piece by piece she withered,
But naught touched her inner flame,
For even as her time grew near,
A smile warmed her face;
Though her body burned in agony,
She’d not be bowed by pain,
And left a potent legacy,
A foundation for her line:
Deep roots of love immortal,
Untouched by flight of time.
Written By Rysen
March 4, 2019, 5:37 p.m.(9/6/1010 AR)
I had the pleasure of sharing some whiskey in The Spirits the other night with Lord Danvir. I hadn't seen him since we were boys, but time seems only to have deepened his curiosity and wisdom. He's delving into the history of the Old Ways, and seems to be uncovering many things that had been long forgotten.
For the second time, I find myself in debited to Princess Sorrel. When I first arrived in Arx, it was she who introduced me to Gianna Whisper, and saw me accepted into the Bard's College. More recently she agreed to train me in the art of sword fighting, where by moonlight beneath the willow trees she showed me the forms and techniques of a true master. The fluidity of her movements is astounding, and the speed and force with which she moves her blade have opened my eyes to what is truly possible.
After the lesson, Princess Sorrel took me to the sparring center, where the warrior Ajax, and the cunning and subtly charming Elise Whisper had been training. In that ring I experienced first hand the strength and agility of the Bladesong of Thrax. My old teacher in Stormwall used to say that steel sharpens steel - to say nothing of diamondplate - and though my body payed a high price, I left Princess Sorrel's presence feeling sharper than ever - that is to say, after another visit to Lady Gretchen's spa, a good deal of ale, and some sleep.
Note to self: buy some armor.
For the second time, I find myself in debited to Princess Sorrel. When I first arrived in Arx, it was she who introduced me to Gianna Whisper, and saw me accepted into the Bard's College. More recently she agreed to train me in the art of sword fighting, where by moonlight beneath the willow trees she showed me the forms and techniques of a true master. The fluidity of her movements is astounding, and the speed and force with which she moves her blade have opened my eyes to what is truly possible.
After the lesson, Princess Sorrel took me to the sparring center, where the warrior Ajax, and the cunning and subtly charming Elise Whisper had been training. In that ring I experienced first hand the strength and agility of the Bladesong of Thrax. My old teacher in Stormwall used to say that steel sharpens steel - to say nothing of diamondplate - and though my body payed a high price, I left Princess Sorrel's presence feeling sharper than ever - that is to say, after another visit to Lady Gretchen's spa, a good deal of ale, and some sleep.
Note to self: buy some armor.
Written By Rysen
March 2, 2019, 11:34 p.m.(9/3/1010 AR)
I had the good fortune to attend two parties in recent days of quite different character. The first was in celebration of the birth of Marquessa Lianne Malespero, the liberator of fine wines and patron of the master brewer Venturo. The Lycene style is new to me. Celebrations in the North are generally of two species: the solemn and sacred, or the raucous and wild, but Lady Lianne sat in the grass in the courtyard of her tower, surrounded by friends, family and strangers attracted to free and delicious drinks, and it was a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It was my second time meeting Lord Pasquale. He seems a dour man, but intelligent and good hearted - the sort that will tell you if your poem fails, or your swordplay has gotten lazy. Such men make invaluable friends.
The second party was hosted by Princess Liara Grayson, and was an extravagant, exciting affair. I hoped to congratulate Princess Sabella and Prince Niklas in person on the recent birth of their son, and was happy to find the Nightingale present, who, as usual, was dressed in such resplendent beauty as will not be soon forgot. There were games, drinks, food, music, dancing, and His Majesty the King arrived as well, which provided an opportunity for Prince Niklas to prove himself not only the greatest wit in Arvum, but also, its greatest dancer.
As for my own dance partner, on my pride as a poet, I will never do her justice in prose. I have read her books, observed her lessons, watched her show grace in defeat, strength and skill in the arts of combat, and compassion to those she meets. She is the embodiment of the ideals of chivalry and virtue, and the beating heart of what it means to be a knight. They say there are none above Grayson. Indeed, there are none.
The second party was hosted by Princess Liara Grayson, and was an extravagant, exciting affair. I hoped to congratulate Princess Sabella and Prince Niklas in person on the recent birth of their son, and was happy to find the Nightingale present, who, as usual, was dressed in such resplendent beauty as will not be soon forgot. There were games, drinks, food, music, dancing, and His Majesty the King arrived as well, which provided an opportunity for Prince Niklas to prove himself not only the greatest wit in Arvum, but also, its greatest dancer.
As for my own dance partner, on my pride as a poet, I will never do her justice in prose. I have read her books, observed her lessons, watched her show grace in defeat, strength and skill in the arts of combat, and compassion to those she meets. She is the embodiment of the ideals of chivalry and virtue, and the beating heart of what it means to be a knight. They say there are none above Grayson. Indeed, there are none.
Written By Rysen
Feb. 27, 2019, 11:46 p.m.(8/25/1010 AR)
Some people think that art should surprise you, others, that it should disturb you, or make the familiar unfamiliar, move you with indescribable feeling, or bring you to contemplate some higher truth or beauty. Lady Willow's art does these things, and exceeds them all. I suggested a subject for her next piece in jest; I shall make it again in earnest.
For the first time in a while, I pushed my body to its limits under one of the greatest living sword fighters of our time, Princess Reese Grayson. Though perhaps I should have known better, I expected to meet the Princess in some vast estate of manicured lawns, with myriad servants, and countless breakable baubles. Instead, I was invited to her ivy covered watch tower, crowned with a training area overlooking the Seawatch Gate and the Gray Forest. Her style of teaching is a perfect balance between theory, application and adjustments, and her technique with the sword is simply unmatched. It was truly an honor to train with her, and I learned a lot.
Afterward I wandered into Lady Gretchen Moore's Serenity Spa, stiff and bruised. Not only did I leave feeling refreshed in body - but had the pleasure of witnessing perhaps the most insolent and hilarious man I've ever encountered, level a variety of baseless accusations against Lady Gretchen - which, I must add, the Lady handled with equal wit and humor. To anyone who has yet to visit the Serenity Spa, I can only say it would be well worth your time and coin.
For the first time in a while, I pushed my body to its limits under one of the greatest living sword fighters of our time, Princess Reese Grayson. Though perhaps I should have known better, I expected to meet the Princess in some vast estate of manicured lawns, with myriad servants, and countless breakable baubles. Instead, I was invited to her ivy covered watch tower, crowned with a training area overlooking the Seawatch Gate and the Gray Forest. Her style of teaching is a perfect balance between theory, application and adjustments, and her technique with the sword is simply unmatched. It was truly an honor to train with her, and I learned a lot.
Afterward I wandered into Lady Gretchen Moore's Serenity Spa, stiff and bruised. Not only did I leave feeling refreshed in body - but had the pleasure of witnessing perhaps the most insolent and hilarious man I've ever encountered, level a variety of baseless accusations against Lady Gretchen - which, I must add, the Lady handled with equal wit and humor. To anyone who has yet to visit the Serenity Spa, I can only say it would be well worth your time and coin.
Written By Rysen
Feb. 25, 2019, 1:40 p.m.(8/20/1010 AR)
I recently had the privilege of attending and performing at Venturo's Kismet Carnival. It seemed very well attended, and the performances, save my own, were first rate. I must press the Nightingale for voice and music lessons soon. Lygeia did not love playing the lyre before so large a crowd, though I think she did admirably. The games seemed popular, and - by the gods and spirits - the ale was superb. My only complaint is that I did not have the opportunity to dance in that dirt floored hall - though, of course, I know no partner who might be willing, nor have I the skill to impress if I did. But it truly felt good to find a ray of light amidst the gathering storm clouds, and to be reminded that we are indeed strong together, in merry making, as well as mutual defense.
On the topic of reminders: I encountered again a young woman who is beautiful and fascinating - dangerously so. I completely misread her, and must admit that she caught me off guard. Forsake me not, Limerance, and keep me true to my oath - for what nobility is there in humanity, save that we live by our word?
On the topic of reminders: I encountered again a young woman who is beautiful and fascinating - dangerously so. I completely misread her, and must admit that she caught me off guard. Forsake me not, Limerance, and keep me true to my oath - for what nobility is there in humanity, save that we live by our word?
Written By Rysen
Feb. 22, 2019, 2:14 p.m.(8/14/1010 AR)
I had a conversation with a noble lady concerning, among other things, the decisions now facing the leaders of the Compact and the King - heavy decisions with the highest stakes. The lady's desire to study the arts of statecraft impressed me to no small degree, as I have known leaders who are more than content to rule by custom, impulse and whatever flippant desire should take them in a given moment. After the conversation, I am most curious to speak with Lady Fianna, and see if she will share with me her thoughts and feelings on some of the offers made by our neighbors, and by Brass. Having spoken recently to the Commander Jeffeth of the Knights of Solace, I am reminded that, whatever decision is ultimately made, the cost will likely be paid in the blood of valiant men and women at arms.
On a happier note, I had an excellent time at Gianna Whisper's birthday party. Though fashion may as well be a foreign language to me, beauty is my native tongue, and the Nightingale, dressed in shimmering gold, looked divine. Reluctant as I was to give her the gift I prepared, I cannot say that, in the end, I regret it in the least, for though her voice, even in the North, is praised in legends, some significant addendum must be made for her lips. I must also remember to write to Lady Willow and thank her for her advice, and promise that, henceforth, I will not trouble her with my insipid questions.
The chocolate fountain was amazing. I am worried I'm going soft.
On a happier note, I had an excellent time at Gianna Whisper's birthday party. Though fashion may as well be a foreign language to me, beauty is my native tongue, and the Nightingale, dressed in shimmering gold, looked divine. Reluctant as I was to give her the gift I prepared, I cannot say that, in the end, I regret it in the least, for though her voice, even in the North, is praised in legends, some significant addendum must be made for her lips. I must also remember to write to Lady Willow and thank her for her advice, and promise that, henceforth, I will not trouble her with my insipid questions.
The chocolate fountain was amazing. I am worried I'm going soft.
Written By Rysen
Feb. 19, 2019, 9:11 p.m.(8/8/1010 AR)
Princess Helena hosted a poetry reading recently in the reading room of the Vellichorian Academy. Having never visited before, I was amazed to discover that the Academy posses many fine texts of music and poetry. Though many were in attendance, the only person I recognized was Lady Acantha, and I thank the gods and spirits for that friendly face.
Several poets in attendance presented their work publicly with skill and passion. When the Princess asked for volunteers to share extemporaneous verse on the topic of "choice," a man whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting named Lord Sebastian shared. His verse was brilliant: the meter, imagery, use of rhyme and the affection displayed in such potent words to his lover were awe inspiring. I also shared, and found the reception warmer than I could have possibly imagined.
Various poets also presented works they had prepared previously, including the hostess, Princess Helena - and what genius she displayed! Moving us with flowing words and well wrought rhymes from peace and tranquility to the tumult of wild storms! Then arose a woman of wild aspect and fiery auburn hair, who I came to learn is named Lady Monique Greenmarch. She recited her poem, and smooth and well-crafted verse it was not - and yet it, too, partook of the elemental energy of life so necessary for true poetry - nor will I ever speak ill of any poet with the will and courage to present her work. Something tells me though, that whatever problems Lady Monique may encounter, a lack of courage will never be among them. Finally, Lady Miranda presented a poem that held in essence some powerful love, separated from her, perhaps, by some great distance, movingly conveyed in images of the wind and sea.
Here, my muse, you are not alone, and in the company of true brothers and sisters. I enjoyed every moment in that room, and I eagerly await the next occasion to hear such brilliant verse.
Several poets in attendance presented their work publicly with skill and passion. When the Princess asked for volunteers to share extemporaneous verse on the topic of "choice," a man whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting named Lord Sebastian shared. His verse was brilliant: the meter, imagery, use of rhyme and the affection displayed in such potent words to his lover were awe inspiring. I also shared, and found the reception warmer than I could have possibly imagined.
Various poets also presented works they had prepared previously, including the hostess, Princess Helena - and what genius she displayed! Moving us with flowing words and well wrought rhymes from peace and tranquility to the tumult of wild storms! Then arose a woman of wild aspect and fiery auburn hair, who I came to learn is named Lady Monique Greenmarch. She recited her poem, and smooth and well-crafted verse it was not - and yet it, too, partook of the elemental energy of life so necessary for true poetry - nor will I ever speak ill of any poet with the will and courage to present her work. Something tells me though, that whatever problems Lady Monique may encounter, a lack of courage will never be among them. Finally, Lady Miranda presented a poem that held in essence some powerful love, separated from her, perhaps, by some great distance, movingly conveyed in images of the wind and sea.
Here, my muse, you are not alone, and in the company of true brothers and sisters. I enjoyed every moment in that room, and I eagerly await the next occasion to hear such brilliant verse.
Written By Rysen
Feb. 15, 2019, 12:19 p.m.(7/28/1010 AR)
I recently had the privilege of meeting Princess Sorrel, though, not for the first time in my life, I wish I had drunk significantly less ale beforehand. In all that has been said in fable or romance of warrior princesses, Sorrel exceeds them all. She arrived with a vast retinue, smiled, drank, and spoke warmly on the subjects of which I had inquired - yet never did her aura of dignity and power wane. She mentioned teaching at the Bard's College, and I shall look forward to seeing her there in the future, and, perhaps having the opportunity to hear her sing.
Before taking her leave, the Princess introduced me to Gianna Whisper, the Nightingale of the Bard's College. I find it... difficult to describe Gianna. Unlike the Princess, she was not warm, and yet was not unkind. All of her words and actions seemed calculated. She seems to me a woman wearing a mask - and what is it that lies beneath that mask? A sensitive soul, wounded, perhaps, by some trauma of her past? A scheming spirit of malice, moving pawns towards some insidious end? Or is it merely some natural disposition she has had since birth, such that no word, expression or action should arise but through her conscious will? Or something else entirely?
This much, though, I can say about the Nightingale of the Bard's College: she inspires a desire to push one's artistic limits, to crack that impenetrable mask, and force, through all the power of passionate and soaring verse, smiles, tears or laughter, and prove that one's art can touch even the most guarded of hearts.
In response to my inquiries into the Bard's College, Gianna asked me to perform a poem on the spot. I recited a sonnet in the old courtly style, and, though I am unsure of her true reaction, it seemed to have been enough to grant me admission into that institution. But I swear to you, O gods and spirits of high arts - if that simple sonnet was enough to grant entry, I will shower the Nightingale's College in verse such that its renown shall never fade, and should a thousand years pass, poets will look to our time, and say, "that was the golden age of poetry in Arvum."
Before taking her leave, the Princess introduced me to Gianna Whisper, the Nightingale of the Bard's College. I find it... difficult to describe Gianna. Unlike the Princess, she was not warm, and yet was not unkind. All of her words and actions seemed calculated. She seems to me a woman wearing a mask - and what is it that lies beneath that mask? A sensitive soul, wounded, perhaps, by some trauma of her past? A scheming spirit of malice, moving pawns towards some insidious end? Or is it merely some natural disposition she has had since birth, such that no word, expression or action should arise but through her conscious will? Or something else entirely?
This much, though, I can say about the Nightingale of the Bard's College: she inspires a desire to push one's artistic limits, to crack that impenetrable mask, and force, through all the power of passionate and soaring verse, smiles, tears or laughter, and prove that one's art can touch even the most guarded of hearts.
In response to my inquiries into the Bard's College, Gianna asked me to perform a poem on the spot. I recited a sonnet in the old courtly style, and, though I am unsure of her true reaction, it seemed to have been enough to grant me admission into that institution. But I swear to you, O gods and spirits of high arts - if that simple sonnet was enough to grant entry, I will shower the Nightingale's College in verse such that its renown shall never fade, and should a thousand years pass, poets will look to our time, and say, "that was the golden age of poetry in Arvum."
Written By Rysen
Feb. 12, 2019, 1:09 p.m.(7/22/1010 AR)
I have arrived in Arx, and begun to explore the city, though I am feeling very out of place, and sick at heart for the wooded vales of my home. I have sent a message to the Nightingale of the Bard’s College in order to learn more about the organization – presumptuous, perhaps, considering I am not a trained performer, and yet I have absolute faith in the peerless verse of my muse. Hopefully it will be an avenue to learn more about the city, its history, and the intriguing inhabitants I have glimpsed in passing, dressed beyond my wildest fancy, and often in possession of a trailing retinue that, back home, would have set the village to the highest degree of excitement. My other interests, of course, are not far from my mind, and where better than the Bard’s College to find the first steps toward uncovering those secrets? Upon leaving, my brother mentioned that Lady Fianna frequented the city. I hope to contact her soon in the hopes that she might be able to help me find suitable work, and, perhaps, learn how to dress and act so as not to embarrass myself in this new environment, so different from the military camps and small country inns with which I am familiar.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.