Written By Aiden
July 11, 2017, 1:11 p.m.(10/25/1006 AR)
A Word From the Officiator of the Menagerie:
The Revitalization of the Menagerie Project started approximately five months ago and in that time, the community of Arx has made enormous strides in helping achieve the vision I had for the Menagerie. Many of you came out in support of the fundraising, the masquerade, and the soft opening. Many of you supported in other ways, donating your time and money to this cause. Others provided emotional support for this grand undertaking. Still others leant your social influence to help arrange for supplies and tools, and for the labor required.
While there are still things to build and oversee, the Menagerie is in a state of completion that can support visitors and events hosted therein. I wanted to extend my gratitude to all those who helped and who still may help. This has been a prime example of what people of Arx can do when they come together for a cause they believe in. We can do so much when we labor together for something we love.
So with that, as the Officiator, it is my honor to welcome all who reside within Arx to make use of the Menagerie, for social and educational purposes. Do you need a background to get married in? Do you need to have somewhere to host a birthday party? Do you wish to teach people about animal handling and need a place for it? Well, the Menagerie is yours to use! As long as we maintain a level of respect for the animals, let it be known, the Menagerie is open for day use!
I wish to offer congratulations to Princess Marian Redrain for her winning fountain entry!
Lastly, I'm pleased to announce the opening of The Gifting Tree, in which one can find the works of three crafters within. Nisaa Whisper, Master Torian Culler, and Mistress Petal Penrose. Both the Culler's Branch and Petal's Branch are currently stocked with unique gifts. Make sure to drop by on your next visit to the Menagerie.
It's been my pleasure to work with many of you on this project. It's been a blessing. Thank you once again.
Prince Aiden Grayson
Officiator of the Menagerie
The Revitalization of the Menagerie Project started approximately five months ago and in that time, the community of Arx has made enormous strides in helping achieve the vision I had for the Menagerie. Many of you came out in support of the fundraising, the masquerade, and the soft opening. Many of you supported in other ways, donating your time and money to this cause. Others provided emotional support for this grand undertaking. Still others leant your social influence to help arrange for supplies and tools, and for the labor required.
While there are still things to build and oversee, the Menagerie is in a state of completion that can support visitors and events hosted therein. I wanted to extend my gratitude to all those who helped and who still may help. This has been a prime example of what people of Arx can do when they come together for a cause they believe in. We can do so much when we labor together for something we love.
So with that, as the Officiator, it is my honor to welcome all who reside within Arx to make use of the Menagerie, for social and educational purposes. Do you need a background to get married in? Do you need to have somewhere to host a birthday party? Do you wish to teach people about animal handling and need a place for it? Well, the Menagerie is yours to use! As long as we maintain a level of respect for the animals, let it be known, the Menagerie is open for day use!
I wish to offer congratulations to Princess Marian Redrain for her winning fountain entry!
Lastly, I'm pleased to announce the opening of The Gifting Tree, in which one can find the works of three crafters within. Nisaa Whisper, Master Torian Culler, and Mistress Petal Penrose. Both the Culler's Branch and Petal's Branch are currently stocked with unique gifts. Make sure to drop by on your next visit to the Menagerie.
It's been my pleasure to work with many of you on this project. It's been a blessing. Thank you once again.
Prince Aiden Grayson
Officiator of the Menagerie
Written By Aiden
July 11, 2017, 11:03 a.m.(10/24/1006 AR)
I decided to write about my musing of marriage and love, after reading journals about it and seeing all the proclamations of arrangements. Here it goes.
I received formal training when I was younger on the matter of state and the use of marriage. I was taught marriage for love is //often// a selfish pursuit. There are exceptions, as my tutors told me, as there are exceptions with everything in life.
However, it was explained to me that marriage for love was selfish because as a noble you have more to think about than yourself and when you are in love, you are only thinking about your own happiness. In reality, you have the happiness of those people who gave fealty to your house and home to think of, you have the happiness of your family to think about, you have your Great House to think about, you have your King and Arvum to think about. Marriage is best used to unite bonds between two families that ideally wouldn't come together, by creating that bond in blood by having offspring to carry the ties for generations to come. It's about trade pacts and sealing loyalties, also about the shifting of wealth and influence. It's about creating strength in unity and increasing the standard of living for all those who depend on you, so you should anticipate some social, military, or economic pact to assist with that. One can grow to learn to love their spouse but it shouldn't be the foundation for marriage.
That is what I was taught. That is what my friends have heard me saying when they've approached me in confusion or suggestion, that I get married to the Baron. When I reply, I cannot marry, they are most befuddled. We all know there is nothing against the idea of two people, regardless of gender, being wed before the Faith, of which I've ensured by reading of it. It would therefore depend on the High Lord of House.
I explain, while in an ideal world, I would marry Silas, in this world, it would be selfish and not the right thing to do. The Baron is landed and already given in fealty to Grayson. He is also the first of his name and as such, he will need to have heirs. Adoption could be possible, but it would not be a tie of blood that leads to creating long lines of nobility which is a part of our culture. This is the world of nobility. We could both step away from our noble titles and it would be of no consequence, but that, you see, would be utterly selfish.
So no, we cannot marry. It's hard to accept, but I have, I always have. He will need a wife - clearly one day in the far future because honestly I wish for more lasting time with him. However, it is not for me to be in the way of the duty he accepted when he took on the mantle of Baron.
As for myself, my last talk to Lark proved that it is likely that my marriage, if one ever happens, will be bound to the needs of Grayson - as I've been raised to understand. To that end, I am in no rush to be married either, truthfully, I like my life as it is. Yet I know, should there be an opportunity in the future for House Grayson to secure an alliance by the promise of my marriage, then so be it.
Until then, I live fortunately. I've found love. And it is no simple thing. It is profound. And I would wish for everyone to live in such a gift from Limerance. Everyone should know it. So if you can find a marriage match that will benefit more than just you, well, you should be giving your prayers to Limerance, for your life is a blessed one.
I received formal training when I was younger on the matter of state and the use of marriage. I was taught marriage for love is //often// a selfish pursuit. There are exceptions, as my tutors told me, as there are exceptions with everything in life.
However, it was explained to me that marriage for love was selfish because as a noble you have more to think about than yourself and when you are in love, you are only thinking about your own happiness. In reality, you have the happiness of those people who gave fealty to your house and home to think of, you have the happiness of your family to think about, you have your Great House to think about, you have your King and Arvum to think about. Marriage is best used to unite bonds between two families that ideally wouldn't come together, by creating that bond in blood by having offspring to carry the ties for generations to come. It's about trade pacts and sealing loyalties, also about the shifting of wealth and influence. It's about creating strength in unity and increasing the standard of living for all those who depend on you, so you should anticipate some social, military, or economic pact to assist with that. One can grow to learn to love their spouse but it shouldn't be the foundation for marriage.
That is what I was taught. That is what my friends have heard me saying when they've approached me in confusion or suggestion, that I get married to the Baron. When I reply, I cannot marry, they are most befuddled. We all know there is nothing against the idea of two people, regardless of gender, being wed before the Faith, of which I've ensured by reading of it. It would therefore depend on the High Lord of House.
I explain, while in an ideal world, I would marry Silas, in this world, it would be selfish and not the right thing to do. The Baron is landed and already given in fealty to Grayson. He is also the first of his name and as such, he will need to have heirs. Adoption could be possible, but it would not be a tie of blood that leads to creating long lines of nobility which is a part of our culture. This is the world of nobility. We could both step away from our noble titles and it would be of no consequence, but that, you see, would be utterly selfish.
So no, we cannot marry. It's hard to accept, but I have, I always have. He will need a wife - clearly one day in the far future because honestly I wish for more lasting time with him. However, it is not for me to be in the way of the duty he accepted when he took on the mantle of Baron.
As for myself, my last talk to Lark proved that it is likely that my marriage, if one ever happens, will be bound to the needs of Grayson - as I've been raised to understand. To that end, I am in no rush to be married either, truthfully, I like my life as it is. Yet I know, should there be an opportunity in the future for House Grayson to secure an alliance by the promise of my marriage, then so be it.
Until then, I live fortunately. I've found love. And it is no simple thing. It is profound. And I would wish for everyone to live in such a gift from Limerance. Everyone should know it. So if you can find a marriage match that will benefit more than just you, well, you should be giving your prayers to Limerance, for your life is a blessed one.
Written By Aiden
July 8, 2017, 1:56 a.m.(10/18/1006 AR)
To those of Arx, regarding the animals of Arx.
For many months I have worked tirelessly to see that the Menagerie was expanded, not merely for the amusement of it's people, but for the comfort of the animals within. Many have questioned me why is it that these animals cannot return to the wild. The answer to them has been, many have been all their lives in captivity, are old, or the journey back to their native land would be too strenuous on them. Some CHOOSE to be there.
The Menagerie has many skillful handlers that oversee the animals - healers too. If there are sick and injured, they should be brought to the Menagerie where enclosures have been built to reduce the stress on the animals, and we already have a system in place to feed them and take care of their needs. If you don't believe me, you can see for yourself how much effort that the sponsors and those who donated, have put into it.
We're still in the process of determining how best to set up an adoption agency for Animal Companions that no longer have a handler - but I foresee that being settled in the new spring.
Though I would certainly stress the use of areas (in the case the Menagerie) that are already built than raising funds to create a whole new area. I would hate to see all the efforts of the people who committed to this project be overshadowed.
For many months I have worked tirelessly to see that the Menagerie was expanded, not merely for the amusement of it's people, but for the comfort of the animals within. Many have questioned me why is it that these animals cannot return to the wild. The answer to them has been, many have been all their lives in captivity, are old, or the journey back to their native land would be too strenuous on them. Some CHOOSE to be there.
The Menagerie has many skillful handlers that oversee the animals - healers too. If there are sick and injured, they should be brought to the Menagerie where enclosures have been built to reduce the stress on the animals, and we already have a system in place to feed them and take care of their needs. If you don't believe me, you can see for yourself how much effort that the sponsors and those who donated, have put into it.
We're still in the process of determining how best to set up an adoption agency for Animal Companions that no longer have a handler - but I foresee that being settled in the new spring.
Though I would certainly stress the use of areas (in the case the Menagerie) that are already built than raising funds to create a whole new area. I would hate to see all the efforts of the people who committed to this project be overshadowed.
Written By Aiden
July 7, 2017, 3:27 a.m.(10/16/1006 AR)
It's been a long journey, this project - The Revitalization of the Menagerie. The place has been given a face lift and a new lease on life. One more step toward completion has been made. Only one area remains under construction. That means, that most of the animals have been transitioned to their new homes. They're all settling in. It's a wonderful feeling to watch them enjoy the touch of grass or the stretch run of their new enclosures.
A few more plaques have been finished up, as promised as part of the Golden Eagle sponsorship.
There are plenty of exhibits that could use a specific touch, however, we do have the winter to get through - maybe more people will be willing to do something creative with their time! (Looking at you, Diamond Hawk sponsors!)
I'm happy to say, I'm only a week away from the soft opening. This is exciting. My first big project is nearing a state of completion. And there are so many people to thank. So many. I'll have all that ready for the Grand Re-Opening. Promise.
Good night Arx!
A few more plaques have been finished up, as promised as part of the Golden Eagle sponsorship.
There are plenty of exhibits that could use a specific touch, however, we do have the winter to get through - maybe more people will be willing to do something creative with their time! (Looking at you, Diamond Hawk sponsors!)
I'm happy to say, I'm only a week away from the soft opening. This is exciting. My first big project is nearing a state of completion. And there are so many people to thank. So many. I'll have all that ready for the Grand Re-Opening. Promise.
Good night Arx!
Written By Aiden
July 6, 2017, 11:59 a.m.(10/14/1006 AR)
Prince Tyrval. My ancenstor... alive and poke-able. I didn't poke him, honestly, I wanted to. I envy his hair and his fashion sense.
In truth, I'm glad I had a moment to speak with him and have my voice heard over everyone who flocked around him. It can't be helped, the flocking. He's flock-able. Handsome too, in the way elves are. And he knows so much about the world.
He's given me some justification to the visions I've had and there's nothing now that will keep me back from venturing out of Arx... not if there are promises of understanding at the end of such a journey. I have my answers.
Now, to get a crew organized.
In truth, I'm glad I had a moment to speak with him and have my voice heard over everyone who flocked around him. It can't be helped, the flocking. He's flock-able. Handsome too, in the way elves are. And he knows so much about the world.
He's given me some justification to the visions I've had and there's nothing now that will keep me back from venturing out of Arx... not if there are promises of understanding at the end of such a journey. I have my answers.
Now, to get a crew organized.
Written By Aiden
July 4, 2017, 2:15 a.m.(10/10/1006 AR)
The first nightmares I started to have, was because I picked up my bow for the first time in defense of people I love. I have wild distortions of how the battles ended up, they tend to keep me up at night.
I first time I wielded my bow in the Hall of Heroes, against bringers that appeared there. Then many many times between. I nearly killed myself to send an arrow in perfect shot from a balcony at the black theater to pin a bringer in place long enough so that those below could finish them. The last time I picked up my bow, I was standing on the ramparts, being tasked with the duties I was, to keep the morale of the archers alive.
Of these things I dream, most terrible. Some, some are different though.
I've had different dreams of late. Of flying. I hold onto those ones, even if in these ones I died too. I don't care though, I was flying. I will fly again. Maybe it won't be in the same way as I do in my dreams, but now, I have seen enough to know which way I must go. Arx has been a cage to me, holding me back. As soon as I can, I will leave it. Two months at most, and then, I go, in search of my dreams.
I know not yet all who will come with me, but those who do, will have to leave all their silk behind.
We go, into the wild.
I first time I wielded my bow in the Hall of Heroes, against bringers that appeared there. Then many many times between. I nearly killed myself to send an arrow in perfect shot from a balcony at the black theater to pin a bringer in place long enough so that those below could finish them. The last time I picked up my bow, I was standing on the ramparts, being tasked with the duties I was, to keep the morale of the archers alive.
Of these things I dream, most terrible. Some, some are different though.
I've had different dreams of late. Of flying. I hold onto those ones, even if in these ones I died too. I don't care though, I was flying. I will fly again. Maybe it won't be in the same way as I do in my dreams, but now, I have seen enough to know which way I must go. Arx has been a cage to me, holding me back. As soon as I can, I will leave it. Two months at most, and then, I go, in search of my dreams.
I know not yet all who will come with me, but those who do, will have to leave all their silk behind.
We go, into the wild.
Written By Aiden
July 4, 2017, 2:01 a.m.(10/10/1006 AR)
I'm so fortunate to have amazing friends who remind me of all the good that I've done and am trying to do.
You know who you are. I love you like family.
You know who you are. I love you like family.
Written By Aiden
June 30, 2017, 4:35 p.m.(10/3/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
Finally the day had come when the Whitehawk's flag ship showed up on the horizon of the bay. I had waited for entirely too long for him to return. If I'm not attentively participating in events for the next while, it is because I have a lot to catch up with him.
So glad he's back.
I can breathe again!
So glad he's back.
I can breathe again!
Written By Aiden
June 28, 2017, 2:46 p.m.(9/27/1006 AR)
Another solid day of work at the Menagerie, while I lament the delayed arrival of someone very important to me. At least, the Menagerie keeps me busy.
Today, we have one golden Plaque presented and placed in the Arboreal Enclosure, in honor of the contribution by Marquessa Samantha Deepwood and the community. There's also a little place there now to watch and interact with Lemurs now, thanks to Lady Melinda Grimhall. You can get to the Arboreal enclosure through the Reptile House or the Companion Park. Park Maps will soon be available!
Some more exciting news! Two more areas in the Menagerie are officially construction free! The Companion Park and the Ungulate Fields are open for viewing! The other places in the park should be open soon! Watch for updates!
Today, we have one golden Plaque presented and placed in the Arboreal Enclosure, in honor of the contribution by Marquessa Samantha Deepwood and the community. There's also a little place there now to watch and interact with Lemurs now, thanks to Lady Melinda Grimhall. You can get to the Arboreal enclosure through the Reptile House or the Companion Park. Park Maps will soon be available!
Some more exciting news! Two more areas in the Menagerie are officially construction free! The Companion Park and the Ungulate Fields are open for viewing! The other places in the park should be open soon! Watch for updates!
Written By Aiden
June 27, 2017, 2:14 a.m.(9/24/1006 AR)
Ahh me... Flight.
I have dreamt about it for as long as I have been working with my feathered friends.
How I could soar with them, free with the wind wild against my face, twisting and turning, diving and rolling.
I can only pretend to fly with my arms outstretched on the balcony, letting the wind gusts buffet me so.
Let the gods hear me this.
One day, I will find my skies and fly.
I have dreamt about it for as long as I have been working with my feathered friends.
How I could soar with them, free with the wind wild against my face, twisting and turning, diving and rolling.
I can only pretend to fly with my arms outstretched on the balcony, letting the wind gusts buffet me so.
Let the gods hear me this.
One day, I will find my skies and fly.
Written By Aiden
June 26, 2017, 11:18 p.m.(9/23/1006 AR)
Sometimes I just don't understand people. Scratch that.. a lot of the times.
What I do understand is love. What I do understand is that there was plenty of it at Rook's wedding and party thereafter.
Congratulations once again Prince Rook. I was happy to be there to witness the occasion.
What I do understand is love. What I do understand is that there was plenty of it at Rook's wedding and party thereafter.
Congratulations once again Prince Rook. I was happy to be there to witness the occasion.
Written By Aiden
June 25, 2017, 6:21 p.m.(9/21/1006 AR)
There are days I wish I had something meaningful to do.
The menagerie is meaningful, don't get me wrong, but there will be a day when the construction comes to an end and my time spent there will be ever so brief, merely needed to check in here and there.
What else will there be for me to do? A purpose and point to remaining in Arx... surely something will come along...
Or maybe I will wander for a few years... in search of griffins and rocs.
The menagerie is meaningful, don't get me wrong, but there will be a day when the construction comes to an end and my time spent there will be ever so brief, merely needed to check in here and there.
What else will there be for me to do? A purpose and point to remaining in Arx... surely something will come along...
Or maybe I will wander for a few years... in search of griffins and rocs.
Written By Aiden
June 21, 2017, 11:41 a.m.(9/10/1006 AR)
Another exciting day at the Menagerie. One more little place of sanctuary made within. A nice place to sit in the butterfly gardens. I would say thank you to the person who donated, but seeing as this person donated for someone else, I wouldn't wish to ruin the surprise. You know who you are. Thank you for your contributions and such a little place will be well tended for many years to come.
I have had a few other offers as well to take on small projects.
My hope is to have a soft opening soon. I worry that some of the designers have the architects pushing back the date of the opening. I would like to see it open before winter hits...
Days go by so quickly.
I have had a few other offers as well to take on small projects.
My hope is to have a soft opening soon. I worry that some of the designers have the architects pushing back the date of the opening. I would like to see it open before winter hits...
Days go by so quickly.
Written By Aiden
June 19, 2017, 2:22 a.m.(9/6/1006 AR)
I certainly don't eat any dead flesh.
Fruits, veggies, grains, and dairy.
On another note, haven't we had enough murder in our city?
Why do we need to act it out?
I'm sorely disappointed as my last attendance to the Black Rose Theater wasn't one to fondly recall, save for my date with Whisper Nisaa. I wish we had plays of love and romance and things that aren't about death.
Fruits, veggies, grains, and dairy.
On another note, haven't we had enough murder in our city?
Why do we need to act it out?
I'm sorely disappointed as my last attendance to the Black Rose Theater wasn't one to fondly recall, save for my date with Whisper Nisaa. I wish we had plays of love and romance and things that aren't about death.
Written By Aiden
June 19, 2017, 1:52 a.m.(9/5/1006 AR)
I'm opposed to eating birds myself. You would be too if you could understand them like I do.
I understand people have to eat and often there isn't a choice but what they catch.
Wild ravens though? They're pretty filthy.
They eat on dead flesh.
You would then be eating their dead flesh.
Consuming it that can cause the four humors to fall out of alignment.
Sometimes that is their last laugh.
I wouldn't recommend it.
I understand people have to eat and often there isn't a choice but what they catch.
Wild ravens though? They're pretty filthy.
They eat on dead flesh.
You would then be eating their dead flesh.
Consuming it that can cause the four humors to fall out of alignment.
Sometimes that is their last laugh.
I wouldn't recommend it.
Written By Aiden
June 19, 2017, 1:21 a.m.(9/5/1006 AR)
A crow is a lot higher pitched when they voice their calls.
A raven is a low throated sound, like a gronk-gronk croooak.
Interesting fact, a crow's tail is fan-shaped and a raven's is wedge-shaped.
Fortunato is right about their socializing behaviors. Ravens are more cautious.
You know what's really interesting? A crow's life span is usually around the 8 year mark, while a raven can last upwards of 30 years! Imagine their intelligence. If you want a smart bird, a raven is the way to go.
Raven's are also larger than a crow, and their feathers have a wet look to them and gleam blue or purple. The right trainer can also get a Raven to learn to understand what you're telling them. Crow's take a bit more effort.
A raven is a low throated sound, like a gronk-gronk croooak.
Interesting fact, a crow's tail is fan-shaped and a raven's is wedge-shaped.
Fortunato is right about their socializing behaviors. Ravens are more cautious.
You know what's really interesting? A crow's life span is usually around the 8 year mark, while a raven can last upwards of 30 years! Imagine their intelligence. If you want a smart bird, a raven is the way to go.
Raven's are also larger than a crow, and their feathers have a wet look to them and gleam blue or purple. The right trainer can also get a Raven to learn to understand what you're telling them. Crow's take a bit more effort.
Written By Aiden
June 16, 2017, 4:03 p.m.(9/1/1006 AR)
I think I'm ready for the masquerade. Prizes that I designed have been crafted, decor finished, musicians lined up... Only thing left is to find a tunic!
Also, the Arboreal Enclosure in which Marquessa Samantha Deepwood sponsored has been completed. The architects and construction laborers were quite motivated to finish up this part of the park. You can find it by walking through to the Companion Park or through the Reptile House. It's breathtaking truly!
Also, the Arboreal Enclosure in which Marquessa Samantha Deepwood sponsored has been completed. The architects and construction laborers were quite motivated to finish up this part of the park. You can find it by walking through to the Companion Park or through the Reptile House. It's breathtaking truly!
Written By Aiden
June 15, 2017, 6:09 p.m.(8/27/1006 AR)
I have to keep myself busy...
... in spite of all the sad news, the Menagerie has a new exhibit.
Princess Marian Valardin sponsored the Monarch Stag and Doe exhibit in the ungulate fields.
The deer have been moved over and are already enjoying their new pastures. You'll have to come see for yourself. Thank you Princess Marian for your sponsorship!
The Menagerie Masquerade is soon upon us and while I would wish to postpone it for the circumstances of more grief and loss, it's what the city needs right now. The city needs a night where people can come together, dance, and have a good time. We may mourn and grieve, but we cannot let the shadows win nor prevent us from those things in life we get enjoyment out of.
Let us dance for those who cannot.
... in spite of all the sad news, the Menagerie has a new exhibit.
Princess Marian Valardin sponsored the Monarch Stag and Doe exhibit in the ungulate fields.
The deer have been moved over and are already enjoying their new pastures. You'll have to come see for yourself. Thank you Princess Marian for your sponsorship!
The Menagerie Masquerade is soon upon us and while I would wish to postpone it for the circumstances of more grief and loss, it's what the city needs right now. The city needs a night where people can come together, dance, and have a good time. We may mourn and grieve, but we cannot let the shadows win nor prevent us from those things in life we get enjoyment out of.
Let us dance for those who cannot.
Written By Aiden
June 14, 2017, 2:10 a.m.(8/24/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
What am I going to do with myself for 4 weeks while you're gone?
I'm going to be so lonely that I might host many parties...
Which really means I'll be reading a book or a dozen... alone in our room with the birds...
...when I'm not at the Menagerie.
I am /not/ looking forward to you being away...
Limerance help me get through this...
I'm going to be so lonely that I might host many parties...
Which really means I'll be reading a book or a dozen... alone in our room with the birds...
...when I'm not at the Menagerie.
I am /not/ looking forward to you being away...
Limerance help me get through this...
Written By Aiden
June 14, 2017, 2:07 a.m.(8/24/1006 AR)
Relationship Note on Ainsley
I only tattle to Ailys because I love you.
Mother won't here it from me. Promise.
.... Unless she reads this, then she'll probably grill me.
Let's hope she doesn't read these.
Mother won't here it from me. Promise.
.... Unless she reads this, then she'll probably grill me.
Let's hope she doesn't read these.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.