Written By Aureth
May 9, 2019, 11:22 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
When I was a boy, we always had enough to eat.
My mother was one of the premier tailors in the city, a seamstress who looked out for me and my brother with the fierceness of a she-bear defending her cubs. She was a strong personality. I was also a strong personality, and I look back on memories of the ways we clashed with some regret. For one thing, she wanted nothing more than for Fortunato and me to be as far away from our father's life choices as we could, and I decided as a scrappy young man with a chip on my shoulder that I was going to forsake our pleasant house in the Upper Boroughs to rent a room On My Own in the Murder. Which wasn't one I ever had to pay a lot for, because I worked for the family.
I don't remember that much about those days. I was high a lot -- it was easy to be high, easy not to make waves, easy to avoid conflict, to avoid commitment. I know I hurt some people in my callow youth. I don't know if I'd take any of it back, because the choices I made then resulted in a few things that I would never unwish. Still... there are some things I'd take back.
I had the run of the Boroughs whenever I wanted it when I was a kid. Myrinda knew that there's few things about a boy that age that are more constant than that if there's a place he's not supposed to go or a thing he's not supposed to do, he'll become fascinated by it. She managed her hoard of hellions -- not just her natural children, but a few others who were in our little group of friends, others who fell under the mantle of her protection.
There were some children I played with who disappeared and I never saw them again. And the thing is, that wasn't unusual. Sometimes, kids in the Boroughs disappear. Adults too, for that matter. People just ... go away. You don't question it, because you don't really want the answers.
There are a few of us left, boys and girls who remember. We always had enough to eat. And now I have reached unasked for pinnacles of wealth, a surfeit of all I could ask.
So what do you do with time and wealth, when you've always had enough to eat, but you know people who didn't?
Whatever you can to give back. Build programs. Grow the Faith. Minister to the people. The people that matter. Because what a kid from the Boroughs knows is, that's all the people.
As it happens, that's what the Faith preaches, too. What the Mother of Beginnings says.
When you have an opportunity to give back, you do. I'm working with the other priests of the city to expand our efforts not only beyond the bounds of Arvum, in seraphies all over the Compact, but to remember the people at home. To support efforts like those of the Solace, and like Mae Culler's soup kitchen, and locally run shops through the crafter's guild and through my hard-working protege, Mayir Grayhope.
I was born in this city. It's Death's city. And I'll never forget that.
My mother was one of the premier tailors in the city, a seamstress who looked out for me and my brother with the fierceness of a she-bear defending her cubs. She was a strong personality. I was also a strong personality, and I look back on memories of the ways we clashed with some regret. For one thing, she wanted nothing more than for Fortunato and me to be as far away from our father's life choices as we could, and I decided as a scrappy young man with a chip on my shoulder that I was going to forsake our pleasant house in the Upper Boroughs to rent a room On My Own in the Murder. Which wasn't one I ever had to pay a lot for, because I worked for the family.
I don't remember that much about those days. I was high a lot -- it was easy to be high, easy not to make waves, easy to avoid conflict, to avoid commitment. I know I hurt some people in my callow youth. I don't know if I'd take any of it back, because the choices I made then resulted in a few things that I would never unwish. Still... there are some things I'd take back.
I had the run of the Boroughs whenever I wanted it when I was a kid. Myrinda knew that there's few things about a boy that age that are more constant than that if there's a place he's not supposed to go or a thing he's not supposed to do, he'll become fascinated by it. She managed her hoard of hellions -- not just her natural children, but a few others who were in our little group of friends, others who fell under the mantle of her protection.
There were some children I played with who disappeared and I never saw them again. And the thing is, that wasn't unusual. Sometimes, kids in the Boroughs disappear. Adults too, for that matter. People just ... go away. You don't question it, because you don't really want the answers.
There are a few of us left, boys and girls who remember. We always had enough to eat. And now I have reached unasked for pinnacles of wealth, a surfeit of all I could ask.
So what do you do with time and wealth, when you've always had enough to eat, but you know people who didn't?
Whatever you can to give back. Build programs. Grow the Faith. Minister to the people. The people that matter. Because what a kid from the Boroughs knows is, that's all the people.
As it happens, that's what the Faith preaches, too. What the Mother of Beginnings says.
When you have an opportunity to give back, you do. I'm working with the other priests of the city to expand our efforts not only beyond the bounds of Arvum, in seraphies all over the Compact, but to remember the people at home. To support efforts like those of the Solace, and like Mae Culler's soup kitchen, and locally run shops through the crafter's guild and through my hard-working protege, Mayir Grayhope.
I was born in this city. It's Death's city. And I'll never forget that.
Written By Bliss
May 9, 2019, 11:12 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Orathy
Orathy Culler wrote the following in his White Journal, not too long ago:
"It be gettin me thinking a wee bit. I ain't had the chance to choose not to eat rats 'n lizards 'n dogs 'n cats 'n the shit that walks on four legs in the Lowers...Aye, this why I ain't like yer fancy animals who be livin better than most the kids in the Lowers... Aye... I had to be doin what I be doin, because where I be born 'n them folk that brought me into the world died when I be a lad 'n ain't left nothin fer me. I fought fer all I did be havin 'n every scrap of food, every day, till the Cullers found me, then we fought together fer more 'n fer protectin 'em who can't protect 'emselves. Aye, life ain't always been easy but I be workin fer all I had. It ain't easy to stomach dem entitled wenches who ain't ever starved a day in there lives, lookin at me 'n thinking I be some lowly swag 'n a scumbag. Ya ain't ever lived as I did. I do be givin to me fellow commoners 'n I be fightin fer em, I be fightin fer every commoner who ever be labelled a damn criminal just because we be dirty 'n missin teeth.
Ain't most of them rich folk who live beyond the Lowers able to understand what it take to live on nothin 'n live only because ya gotta live, n' live because ya ain't want anythin or anyone else to feast on ya. Ain't most of 'em know what hunger does, what despair does, what bein' forgotten does... to a person. Aye. Iffin I be a monster, it ain't because of me, it be from the ways dem rich 'n titled folk keep the rest of us down.
Ahh shit. One day kids, yer gunna understand what Uncle Orathy be talkin bout. One day."
Let us take a look at this in light of today's events on the battlefield of honor. Messere Culler has often written about his poverty, as pretending to be an example of the plight of the poor, with a clear implication that he is better than others for this work. That he eats the same food that others do who are starving, that he lives with the same issues that so many do. That he is really, truly speaking for those in the city who are struggling, day-in and day-out. This is a noble thing to do, as so many of those people do not feel like they have a voice.
But let us be clear, Orathy Culler proved today that he is not, and never can be, the voice of the Lowers.
Not only has he shown his true colors as a coward by being absolutely, utterly convinced that he would die today, and making a dramatic deal of it - which no one who entered the grand melee did, I will note, despite all of us wearing armor of much lower quality - he arrived to this duel wearing millions of silver worth of armor and jewelry. Even if he did not own much of this jewelry, he was willing to throw thousands and thousands at it out of his fear of either death or even just losing a fair fight.
It is, simply put, pathetic.
It is, simply put, a betrayal to those who are actually poor.
How much could that money have done in building businesses and lives in the Lowers, Messere Culler? How many mouths could it have fed? How many lives could you have saved, if you truly are this dedicated to speaking up for those who cannot speak?
If you had accrued that much wealth - where do you get off telling anyone else that because they are rich, their opinions do not matter?
You are a hypocrite, and that is on display for the world to see today.
"It be gettin me thinking a wee bit. I ain't had the chance to choose not to eat rats 'n lizards 'n dogs 'n cats 'n the shit that walks on four legs in the Lowers...Aye, this why I ain't like yer fancy animals who be livin better than most the kids in the Lowers... Aye... I had to be doin what I be doin, because where I be born 'n them folk that brought me into the world died when I be a lad 'n ain't left nothin fer me. I fought fer all I did be havin 'n every scrap of food, every day, till the Cullers found me, then we fought together fer more 'n fer protectin 'em who can't protect 'emselves. Aye, life ain't always been easy but I be workin fer all I had. It ain't easy to stomach dem entitled wenches who ain't ever starved a day in there lives, lookin at me 'n thinking I be some lowly swag 'n a scumbag. Ya ain't ever lived as I did. I do be givin to me fellow commoners 'n I be fightin fer em, I be fightin fer every commoner who ever be labelled a damn criminal just because we be dirty 'n missin teeth.
Ain't most of them rich folk who live beyond the Lowers able to understand what it take to live on nothin 'n live only because ya gotta live, n' live because ya ain't want anythin or anyone else to feast on ya. Ain't most of 'em know what hunger does, what despair does, what bein' forgotten does... to a person. Aye. Iffin I be a monster, it ain't because of me, it be from the ways dem rich 'n titled folk keep the rest of us down.
Ahh shit. One day kids, yer gunna understand what Uncle Orathy be talkin bout. One day."
Let us take a look at this in light of today's events on the battlefield of honor. Messere Culler has often written about his poverty, as pretending to be an example of the plight of the poor, with a clear implication that he is better than others for this work. That he eats the same food that others do who are starving, that he lives with the same issues that so many do. That he is really, truly speaking for those in the city who are struggling, day-in and day-out. This is a noble thing to do, as so many of those people do not feel like they have a voice.
But let us be clear, Orathy Culler proved today that he is not, and never can be, the voice of the Lowers.
Not only has he shown his true colors as a coward by being absolutely, utterly convinced that he would die today, and making a dramatic deal of it - which no one who entered the grand melee did, I will note, despite all of us wearing armor of much lower quality - he arrived to this duel wearing millions of silver worth of armor and jewelry. Even if he did not own much of this jewelry, he was willing to throw thousands and thousands at it out of his fear of either death or even just losing a fair fight.
It is, simply put, pathetic.
It is, simply put, a betrayal to those who are actually poor.
How much could that money have done in building businesses and lives in the Lowers, Messere Culler? How many mouths could it have fed? How many lives could you have saved, if you truly are this dedicated to speaking up for those who cannot speak?
If you had accrued that much wealth - where do you get off telling anyone else that because they are rich, their opinions do not matter?
You are a hypocrite, and that is on display for the world to see today.
Written By Orathy
May 9, 2019, 11:10 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Aleksei
reckon that do be soundin like envy there aye...
seems to me it be a smart thing to be doin to be making sure ya can even the playin field with yer opponent before ya fight. I do be knowing beforehand that Jeffeth be havin alarcite armor 'n he damn well use it 'n get the chance to use it. Course, I do be settin the terms to use any armor ya got, because what be the fuckin point of buyin that shit iffin ya can't use it or fighting, iffin ya can't fight someone at their best?
Aye, he beat me. Sound. I ain't be sorry fer what I did nor that people, aye, real people, be supportin me too by helpin me in ways that aye, I ain't think you got.
Pity that, aye. Pity.
seems to me it be a smart thing to be doin to be making sure ya can even the playin field with yer opponent before ya fight. I do be knowing beforehand that Jeffeth be havin alarcite armor 'n he damn well use it 'n get the chance to use it. Course, I do be settin the terms to use any armor ya got, because what be the fuckin point of buyin that shit iffin ya can't use it or fighting, iffin ya can't fight someone at their best?
Aye, he beat me. Sound. I ain't be sorry fer what I did nor that people, aye, real people, be supportin me too by helpin me in ways that aye, I ain't think you got.
Pity that, aye. Pity.
Written By Orathy
May 9, 2019, 11:06 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Solange
Solange Whisper,
Reckon our argument be starting when yer offering charity to anyone who be askin fer it. You be denyin me based on grounds that you ain't supportin those who do be seemin criminal 'n I reckon I do be going off on ya bout that 'n then ya do be callin my family all criminals too. Aye, reckon I do be apologizing fer going after ya 'n sending ya words that do be makin ya feel as ya be doin. I ain't liking to look in the mirror so much 'n I reckon I will be spending time to be doin that much 'n reflectin on what be happenin 'n where I made mistakes. Aye. I ain't got much time left, I do be knowing that. This place belong to much younger people 'n to those who ain't got such a reputation as I be doing. You be havin every right to be sayin what ya did say bout me 'n I supposin me losin, proves as much. I do be hoping you be acceptin me apologies. I ain't doin it on the field because I be too damn dumb, 'n worried bout my family 'n disappoint 'em. Shit, you be pickin the right man to be standin fer ya. He got blessins from the Gloria, aye aye. As it be, I be leavin ya alone now Whisper.
Orathy Culler
OOC: I accept consequences of not posing in the apology during the duel. MY REAL DUMB happens.
Reckon our argument be starting when yer offering charity to anyone who be askin fer it. You be denyin me based on grounds that you ain't supportin those who do be seemin criminal 'n I reckon I do be going off on ya bout that 'n then ya do be callin my family all criminals too. Aye, reckon I do be apologizing fer going after ya 'n sending ya words that do be makin ya feel as ya be doin. I ain't liking to look in the mirror so much 'n I reckon I will be spending time to be doin that much 'n reflectin on what be happenin 'n where I made mistakes. Aye. I ain't got much time left, I do be knowing that. This place belong to much younger people 'n to those who ain't got such a reputation as I be doing. You be havin every right to be sayin what ya did say bout me 'n I supposin me losin, proves as much. I do be hoping you be acceptin me apologies. I ain't doin it on the field because I be too damn dumb, 'n worried bout my family 'n disappoint 'em. Shit, you be pickin the right man to be standin fer ya. He got blessins from the Gloria, aye aye. As it be, I be leavin ya alone now Whisper.
Orathy Culler
OOC: I accept consequences of not posing in the apology during the duel. MY REAL DUMB happens.
Written By Draven
May 9, 2019, 9:57 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Rowenova
Oh! See Nova! Some people think trying to stay alive is silly and funny! Very, very Compacty people, too!
Written By Malcolm
May 9, 2019, 9:23 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Shepherd Manor's feeling like it's getting the life breathed back into it of late. Air in the dining hall smelled of damp leather and salt and I knew it immediately that it was Bonnie. Aside from that, well, those boot-prints tracking all the way into the hallways. There's something else - someone else - my cousin Kaiden's newly returned from his own adventuring as well. I look forward to connecting with him after all these months. And I heard that Wyatt's been talking about meetings and money and numbers.
Like I said: the life's coming back in Shepherd manor.
Can't wait til spring.
Like I said: the life's coming back in Shepherd manor.
Can't wait til spring.
Written By Tikva
May 9, 2019, 7:54 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
I'm of the opinion that STUFF simply begins to multiply as soon as you move into a room with another person. I'm reasonably certain that Ainsley's various medals and awards and breeding with my trinkets and brooches. I have no other explanation for how much stuff we have littering our quarters. And so of course when I try to find my perfumes, who even knows where they are! I hate to set the staff on it, it's not like the clutter is any of their doing.
Rats.
Rats.
Written By Tikva
May 9, 2019, 7:31 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
Sometimes a crafter's work inspires me to order an entire outfit designed just so that I have something that will show it off appropriately.
While of course I favor buying things after my own taste, nothing makes me happier than observing fine artistry based on what the crafter chose, herself, to create. In addition to making the purchase, I felt inspired to donate to the Faith in honor of Jayus in her name.
While of course I favor buying things after my own taste, nothing makes me happier than observing fine artistry based on what the crafter chose, herself, to create. In addition to making the purchase, I felt inspired to donate to the Faith in honor of Jayus in her name.
Written By Ida
May 9, 2019, 5:43 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
My steel my heart, a Hammer Fan Club.
Get it?!
More truly, I am hopeful that the realm will see all manner of amazing new smiths come up much as I think I have over these twenty plus years. I am grateful to Greenmarch for allowing me the opportunity to teach what I love to a new generation, of sorts.
Get it?!
More truly, I am hopeful that the realm will see all manner of amazing new smiths come up much as I think I have over these twenty plus years. I am grateful to Greenmarch for allowing me the opportunity to teach what I love to a new generation, of sorts.
Written By Delilah
May 9, 2019, 4:57 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Love and forgive yourself.
Written By Tikva
May 9, 2019, 4:55 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Now that Princess Lara is a year old, I look forward to hearing her speak. The wordless yowl of consternation with which she greets her breakfast regardless of what it is has begun to get several of the staff down. It's not that there's anything shocking that a child of mine is quite good at screaming but the obstinate silence in which she wreaths herself much of the rest of the time can be distressing.
It is a wonder how little one toddler is like another. I thought Asharion was a picky eater but he has certainly met his match in sheer contrarianism.
It is a wonder how little one toddler is like another. I thought Asharion was a picky eater but he has certainly met his match in sheer contrarianism.
Written By Radhilde
May 9, 2019, 3:56 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Archeron
After an announcement comes planning! I have to say, I'm quite excited.
And aren't you the kindest Lord there is. I read your words, I appreciate them and think highly of you.
And aren't you the kindest Lord there is. I read your words, I appreciate them and think highly of you.
Written By Seymour
May 9, 2019, 2:36 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
The expansion of civilization demands the expansion of civilization. Those who build roads will always need those who build walls, and those who build walls will always need those who go beyond them. My role in that cycle is taking form and I must say I find myself fond of it.
Written By Aleksei
May 9, 2019, 1:59 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
Imagine being so insecure and scared to lose a duel that you need to specify ridiculous terms to try and swing an advantage, spend weeks with your husband trying to learn how to get better deals on stupidly expensive materials, hire extra labor to turn all that material into lavish arms and armor, and pay people to borrow their jewelry.
It's honestly pretty hilarious.
It's honestly pretty hilarious.
Written By Rysen
May 9, 2019, 12:53 p.m.(1/26/1011 AR)
I spoke to my cousin recently about a number of important matters. Our family is not known for its displays of affection, and I had always considered myself something of a burden, to my parents and perhaps to the Duchess as well. Hearing her words was moving, and later, when I returned to Stormwall, shortly after being named Voice, my father smiled at me for the first time that I can remember. Though I thought I wouldn't care, it felt good to be acknowledged as something other than a disappointment. I will repay the faith the Duchess has put in me a thousand fold.
When I returned to Arx, I found out that Duke Harlan challenged me to a duel. Though I can understand why he did it, I must admit it made me miserable in a way I have seldom felt. Though I cannot claim to know the Duke well at all, the Ashford family has treated me with kindness and acceptance. I have fought beside Lady Rhiannon and Lord Quintin, and I have a great deal of respect for the skill and wit of Lord Pharamond. The Duchess Lisebet had always treated me kindly as well. It is even more painful because my relationship with Lady Olivia is not founded on mere attraction or idle promises. It had been a deep friendship, founded on trust, admiration and sincere affection. We have saved each other's lives, stood together against agents of the Abyss, and shared many happy memories. It is agonizing to see that trust fraying and our bond ripped away.
Things proceed as they must. My sincere gratitude to those who have shown me friendship in my time of need. Your kindness will not be forgotten.
When I returned to Arx, I found out that Duke Harlan challenged me to a duel. Though I can understand why he did it, I must admit it made me miserable in a way I have seldom felt. Though I cannot claim to know the Duke well at all, the Ashford family has treated me with kindness and acceptance. I have fought beside Lady Rhiannon and Lord Quintin, and I have a great deal of respect for the skill and wit of Lord Pharamond. The Duchess Lisebet had always treated me kindly as well. It is even more painful because my relationship with Lady Olivia is not founded on mere attraction or idle promises. It had been a deep friendship, founded on trust, admiration and sincere affection. We have saved each other's lives, stood together against agents of the Abyss, and shared many happy memories. It is agonizing to see that trust fraying and our bond ripped away.
Things proceed as they must. My sincere gratitude to those who have shown me friendship in my time of need. Your kindness will not be forgotten.
Written By Thea
May 9, 2019, 10:03 a.m.(1/25/1011 AR)
When your temper is somewhat blasted for everyone to see---it's probably a good thing there's snow to calm cool one's demeanor.
Written By Monique
May 9, 2019, 9:58 a.m.(1/25/1011 AR)
I must commend Count Fournier on his honorable actions regarding the outcome of his duel with my esteemed sister, Princess Marian. Greenmarch is stronger for such a steadfast and understanding new ally. Count Gael is truly well-endowed with wisdom.
Written By Draven
May 9, 2019, 8:51 a.m.(1/25/1011 AR)
I'm so excited! Soon! I bet! Watch! I can't wait! So soon! That's all!
Written By Aerwyna
May 9, 2019, 7:08 a.m.(1/25/1011 AR)
Better late than never, I suppose. Now that I'm feeling better, I need to get that collection out for the winter. And what a cold one it is!
Written By Athaur
May 9, 2019, 5:48 a.m.(1/25/1011 AR)
My wedding is just about a month away. Of course I am not panicking. I do not know what you are speaking of.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.