Written By Mabelle
May 17, 2019, 5:15 p.m.(2/14/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
To a dear friend who joins in marriage this week-end. I pray you shall be happy in your union and may it bear fruit of children as sweet as you.
Written By Athaur
May 17, 2019, 11:41 a.m.(2/14/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
We are getting married tomorrow. Don't mind me. Just losing my mind. Is it nerves or excitement? Your guess is as good as mine.
Written By Reigna
Sept. 6, 2018, 12:30 p.m.(7/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
I am unsure what other way there is to read the words written, but I accept that their meaning was not what you intended them to be.
I do further question the fact that what this person did was small enough to be resolved by an apology, but because they refused to offer it, it turned into an issue grave enough for you to call their ability to lead into question. Perhaps instead of remaining vague, the better course of action is to name the one whose behavior you find so damning. If they are creating a breech of etiquette so egregious that you feel they should be removed from their position, you are, I feel, obligated to name this person and enumerate the behavior you find so concerning. These are serious charges that you are laying, and should be treated as such.
Words, as you know, have power. If you are so concerned, lay your accusation plainly, especially if you feel this individual is in danger of failing the people they are supposed to be protecting. If not publicly, then to their liege.
I do further question the fact that what this person did was small enough to be resolved by an apology, but because they refused to offer it, it turned into an issue grave enough for you to call their ability to lead into question. Perhaps instead of remaining vague, the better course of action is to name the one whose behavior you find so damning. If they are creating a breech of etiquette so egregious that you feel they should be removed from their position, you are, I feel, obligated to name this person and enumerate the behavior you find so concerning. These are serious charges that you are laying, and should be treated as such.
Words, as you know, have power. If you are so concerned, lay your accusation plainly, especially if you feel this individual is in danger of failing the people they are supposed to be protecting. If not publicly, then to their liege.
Written By Reigna
Sept. 6, 2018, 11:33 a.m.(7/17/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Quoted for accuracy and context:
"There are times where I come across individuals so unfit for their positions, I cannot help but wonder if rule by the virtue of birth is always in the best interest of the people."
There a few issues I take with the above statement:
The minority should not condemn the whole of a body. If there is an infection, you do not kill the host. If you run across these individuals, it is best to deal with them, rather than call into question the structure of our whole society. Nobility is a compact, a pledge, a promise held by a family to serve those under their guardianship. If one is found lacking they should most definitely be addressed and corrected. If that does not prove to rectify the situation, further actions like being disowned can be taken.
Statements like these are troublesome. While I agree that there are some born into nobility that are not of the appropriate temperament for such a thing, calling into question the foundation of our society and civilization is a bit reckless. Society is based on the concepts of honor and duty, a belief in the fundamental trust that the rules are to be obeyed. Nobility is a privilege, we lead lives of comfort and wealth because we sacrifice personal freedoms and accept the weight of decisions that effect those many, many lives that rely on us to do the best possible job protecting them, seeing to their security and welfare. This system works because the commoners trust that we are doing the job we were born to do. That does not mean there are not failures among the Peers. There have been. That is why it is vital that when one is making bad decisions, bad choices and failing in their primary task that they are loudly called on it. They should not be able to escape condemnation for their lapse. So. By all means, when you see one of the Peerage being derelict in their responsibility, call them onto the carpet. But do not condemn the rest of us for the faults of the few. My honor is unstained. I do my best for my people because I was born to this. I was raised my entire life to feel the weight of my responsibility. To know that my life is pledged to the service of others. That is how our civilization works.
"There are times where I come across individuals so unfit for their positions, I cannot help but wonder if rule by the virtue of birth is always in the best interest of the people."
There a few issues I take with the above statement:
The minority should not condemn the whole of a body. If there is an infection, you do not kill the host. If you run across these individuals, it is best to deal with them, rather than call into question the structure of our whole society. Nobility is a compact, a pledge, a promise held by a family to serve those under their guardianship. If one is found lacking they should most definitely be addressed and corrected. If that does not prove to rectify the situation, further actions like being disowned can be taken.
Statements like these are troublesome. While I agree that there are some born into nobility that are not of the appropriate temperament for such a thing, calling into question the foundation of our society and civilization is a bit reckless. Society is based on the concepts of honor and duty, a belief in the fundamental trust that the rules are to be obeyed. Nobility is a privilege, we lead lives of comfort and wealth because we sacrifice personal freedoms and accept the weight of decisions that effect those many, many lives that rely on us to do the best possible job protecting them, seeing to their security and welfare. This system works because the commoners trust that we are doing the job we were born to do. That does not mean there are not failures among the Peers. There have been. That is why it is vital that when one is making bad decisions, bad choices and failing in their primary task that they are loudly called on it. They should not be able to escape condemnation for their lapse. So. By all means, when you see one of the Peerage being derelict in their responsibility, call them onto the carpet. But do not condemn the rest of us for the faults of the few. My honor is unstained. I do my best for my people because I was born to this. I was raised my entire life to feel the weight of my responsibility. To know that my life is pledged to the service of others. That is how our civilization works.
Written By Reigna
Aug. 24, 2018, 11:10 a.m.(6/14/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
You are very correct. The examples I used were needlessly simplistic and not at all representative of the point I was trying to make. The issue I am trying to express is that opinions based on in matters that can be factually be proven or disproven, can themselves be factually correct or incorrect if they are based on misinformation. Which, upon reflection, echoes Lady Prisila's words about opinions be able to be 'misguided'. Though I really prefer the term 'misinformed'. ...And I begin to see the pedant that people are complaining about.
I think the issue that really bothered me was the idea that there is an equivalency between opinion and fact. That is a slippery slope towards madness, believing the two have equal weight. However, upon rereading the pages I had read before, I do not think that was the case made.
That being said I am being woefully pedantic and do not have any excuse for it other than... sometimes I can be woefully pedantic. This is a ridiculous hill to die upon, however, and if I have caused offense, then I happily and sincerely, offer my apologies to those injured by my words.
I think the issue that really bothered me was the idea that there is an equivalency between opinion and fact. That is a slippery slope towards madness, believing the two have equal weight. However, upon rereading the pages I had read before, I do not think that was the case made.
That being said I am being woefully pedantic and do not have any excuse for it other than... sometimes I can be woefully pedantic. This is a ridiculous hill to die upon, however, and if I have caused offense, then I happily and sincerely, offer my apologies to those injured by my words.
Written By Prisila
Aug. 24, 2018, 3:23 a.m.(6/14/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
She's so bright it hurts my eyes this one is! Very aptly stated and all around good form my Lady. You do your House a service by demonstrating such wisdom, restraint, cleverness and perspective. Goodness. There is that word again.
Faruq doesn't really drink wine darling but I do. The next bottle is on me. The Duke and Duchess of Crovane can attest to just how potent the wine is...but don't ask them about the man who set himself on fire at dinner and no matter what you're already, most likely, thinking - Malika didn't do it this time. It's my belief that she didn't but if you were to ask my opinion...well, I think she would under the right circumstances.
Faruq doesn't really drink wine darling but I do. The next bottle is on me. The Duke and Duchess of Crovane can attest to just how potent the wine is...but don't ask them about the man who set himself on fire at dinner and no matter what you're already, most likely, thinking - Malika didn't do it this time. It's my belief that she didn't but if you were to ask my opinion...well, I think she would under the right circumstances.
Written By Barric
July 1, 2018, 8:25 p.m.(2/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Ahh it is good to have you back in the city Lady Stonewood! Congratulations on your win at the tourney challenge as well!
I'm glad to have you back with us so that we can go on more adventures with the Society too.
I'm glad to have you back with us so that we can go on more adventures with the Society too.
Written By Cleo
May 13, 2018, 10:06 p.m.(9/25/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
You are a very nice Lady. I hope you understand me as much as you wish to but I worry there are things you will not be able to accept.
I should proceed carefully.
Also, what is a protege?
I should proceed carefully.
Also, what is a protege?
Written By Violet
Feb. 14, 2018, 12:11 a.m.(3/4/1008 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
An amazing teacher that I am quite lucky to have. I am looking forward to learning more of the dagger and other small, sharp, and pointy things effectively. Our first lesson was intense and I will have bruises for weeks, and I am looking forward to more. I am thinking of asking her to work with me on my footwork and athleticism as well.
Written By Alexis
Dec. 31, 2017, 5:48 p.m.(11/16/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Faced a rather embarrassing defeat at the hands of Lady Joslyn at the arena. Turns out, if your opponent isn't wearing any armour at all, they won't get winded near as fast. And Lady Joslyn has defeated demons with those little needles of hers.
The Rose of Stonewood has Thorns. And on that night I found myself pricked over and over.
Well fought, Lady Joslyn.
The Rose of Stonewood has Thorns. And on that night I found myself pricked over and over.
Well fought, Lady Joslyn.
Written By Samael
Dec. 24, 2017, 3:35 p.m.(11/2/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
To accept the oaths of Knighthood in the sight of Gloria, is to break the shackles of selfishness. To devote yourself to the duchy and to champion her ideals and proudly protect her defenseless is to do a fine thing.
Lady Joslyn Stonewood was born in Tor, the city of roses. A city much like Pridehall, known for it’s military might. It was there that young Joslyn was taught to fight by her mother, Chiara Manicelli. When Joslyn struck out on her own and arrived in Arx, she did not shrink back from the chance to use her mother-given abilities in the fight against the Bringers of Silence. When they attacked the city, she fought back. Since then, she has fought alongside great warriors of the Compact of the likes of our Princess-General Reese Grayson and the late Dame Zhayla of Old Oak. She helped hold the various points of defense during the great siege of Arx, the final battle against Brand.
After Lady Joslyn chose to join House Stonewood, she helped the house regain lost land, restore a lost county and raise the silver to support those campaigns. She has tirelessly fought for her liege and loyally sacrificed her own wellbeing on her behalf. She nearly died, in fact, during her service to the Crownlands.
She has proved to be a great friend and loyal servant to House Stonewood, House Bisland and House Grayson. I can think of no other person more worthy of the title of Knight of Pridehall.
Her oath as witnessed by an assembly of peers:
In the sight of Gloria, I do so vow: I pledge myself to valor, never shall I desert. I swear to protect the defenseless, or fall in the attempt. I give myself to justice, my honor will not bend. I shall champion House Bisland. We win glory.
Lady Joslyn Stonewood was born in Tor, the city of roses. A city much like Pridehall, known for it’s military might. It was there that young Joslyn was taught to fight by her mother, Chiara Manicelli. When Joslyn struck out on her own and arrived in Arx, she did not shrink back from the chance to use her mother-given abilities in the fight against the Bringers of Silence. When they attacked the city, she fought back. Since then, she has fought alongside great warriors of the Compact of the likes of our Princess-General Reese Grayson and the late Dame Zhayla of Old Oak. She helped hold the various points of defense during the great siege of Arx, the final battle against Brand.
After Lady Joslyn chose to join House Stonewood, she helped the house regain lost land, restore a lost county and raise the silver to support those campaigns. She has tirelessly fought for her liege and loyally sacrificed her own wellbeing on her behalf. She nearly died, in fact, during her service to the Crownlands.
She has proved to be a great friend and loyal servant to House Stonewood, House Bisland and House Grayson. I can think of no other person more worthy of the title of Knight of Pridehall.
Her oath as witnessed by an assembly of peers:
In the sight of Gloria, I do so vow: I pledge myself to valor, never shall I desert. I swear to protect the defenseless, or fall in the attempt. I give myself to justice, my honor will not bend. I shall champion House Bisland. We win glory.
Written By Astraea
Dec. 18, 2017, 4:25 a.m.(10/17/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
An immensely talented fighter who gives it her all. I can appreciate a Lady who takes no prisoners. Well fought Rose of Stonewood.
Written By Isabetta
Dec. 11, 2017, 6:39 a.m.(10/3/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Some future historian may wonder, who was Lady Joslyn. I'm not certain these journals accurately keep a record, also I wonder if the duels are recorded. Certainly there is no scholar in the sparing circles.
What is known is that Lady Joslyn was a capable warrior, spoken in the past tense as though this were hundreds of years later. However, what may not have been captured is how, exactly.
No doubt when you imagine a Lady Joslyn who does not wear armor winning in matches, you are imagining perhaps a wrap, light cloth to keep yourself minimally protective and maximally agile. No doubt you are imagining real weapons, perhaps a buckler shield and a long knife, or a hand axe. Perhaps a club. Maybe you are imagining someone so proficient with her hands she can disarm anyone quickly and effectively in her leather footwraps and a tight shift. If you have this picture and you wonder what folly we are to underestimate her then you, future historian, are imagining lady Joslyn wrong.
To fully appreciate why doubt is so common about her talents, especially when compared to a Princess Reese, also known for her prowess, or Dame Alexis, you need to know something about Lady Joslyn. Sure Princess Reese is eccentric, at least in her choice of armor color, no doubt the preference for pink has made it through the annuals of history. Let me write it is all true. All of it. Sure Dame Alexis is, well, normal. Strong, well armored, big sword. Precisely the sort of way you would expect a capable and well known warrior of our age to arm themselves. I can only imagine how you, future reader, will dress your soldiers. No doubt in much thicker plate and longer swords. However, this is all a distraction from the topic at hand. Lady Joslyn.
No your view was wrong. She does not dress in light leathers, or even tightly wrapped cloth for agility. She does not wield a fast knife with a buckler, or a hand axe, or even a club. Lady Joslyn fights in something much closer to a ballroom gown. Allow that a moment to sink in.
Are you picturing something that is likely impeding her motions? Excessive fabric for a fight, poor ventilation to cool off? Good. Now you're starting to understand the incredulity that meets her in the ring. Unfortunately I am not done yet. For her weapon I'm afraid your imagination also requires some assistance. Lady Joslyn has perfected the art of the hair stick. Now you might say, that sounds like a stiletto. A thin knife, capable of finding the gaps in armor or punching right though. However unlike a stiletto, whose handle will well fit the hand, a hair stick is rather thinner and in most cases, entirely unfit for combat. Still, somehow, Lady Joslyn makes this work.
This is not to say we do not see her also fight in traditional gear. We might, I havn't, but I've heard she has taken forays into the field where a gown is even more impractical and would no doubt be defeated by thick brambles. I could be wrong, her battle gowns may accompany her anywhere, I'm sure she'll write about this to set the record straight soon, no doubt along with a duel challenge, but that is future Lady Isabetta's problem. For now let us consider the question burning in your mind. How.
First, Despite how impractical her choice of arms and armor sounds, it has some advantages, probably. The gown is made of fairly resilient materials and is surprisingly hard to damage. The excess fabric makes targeting her difficult and tying up your weapons relatively easy. The fact she is wearing it at all makes you underestimate her and yes, she is quite fit and capable on her own. Would she do better fighting without it? Who knows, even in the Lyceum it is considered silly to do battle without proper clothing.
As for the hair sticks, they basically weigh nothing. Once she gets inside the reach of your weapon I dare say Lady Joslyn has all the advantages. Suddenly the gown that seems ridiculously and unwieldy starts tripping you up and those sticks that do not seem particularly threatening are in your face.
I cannot deny that somehow she makes this all work, but I just hope you, future historian, understand exactly why she is met with such disbelief despite her reputation.
What is known is that Lady Joslyn was a capable warrior, spoken in the past tense as though this were hundreds of years later. However, what may not have been captured is how, exactly.
No doubt when you imagine a Lady Joslyn who does not wear armor winning in matches, you are imagining perhaps a wrap, light cloth to keep yourself minimally protective and maximally agile. No doubt you are imagining real weapons, perhaps a buckler shield and a long knife, or a hand axe. Perhaps a club. Maybe you are imagining someone so proficient with her hands she can disarm anyone quickly and effectively in her leather footwraps and a tight shift. If you have this picture and you wonder what folly we are to underestimate her then you, future historian, are imagining lady Joslyn wrong.
To fully appreciate why doubt is so common about her talents, especially when compared to a Princess Reese, also known for her prowess, or Dame Alexis, you need to know something about Lady Joslyn. Sure Princess Reese is eccentric, at least in her choice of armor color, no doubt the preference for pink has made it through the annuals of history. Let me write it is all true. All of it. Sure Dame Alexis is, well, normal. Strong, well armored, big sword. Precisely the sort of way you would expect a capable and well known warrior of our age to arm themselves. I can only imagine how you, future reader, will dress your soldiers. No doubt in much thicker plate and longer swords. However, this is all a distraction from the topic at hand. Lady Joslyn.
No your view was wrong. She does not dress in light leathers, or even tightly wrapped cloth for agility. She does not wield a fast knife with a buckler, or a hand axe, or even a club. Lady Joslyn fights in something much closer to a ballroom gown. Allow that a moment to sink in.
Are you picturing something that is likely impeding her motions? Excessive fabric for a fight, poor ventilation to cool off? Good. Now you're starting to understand the incredulity that meets her in the ring. Unfortunately I am not done yet. For her weapon I'm afraid your imagination also requires some assistance. Lady Joslyn has perfected the art of the hair stick. Now you might say, that sounds like a stiletto. A thin knife, capable of finding the gaps in armor or punching right though. However unlike a stiletto, whose handle will well fit the hand, a hair stick is rather thinner and in most cases, entirely unfit for combat. Still, somehow, Lady Joslyn makes this work.
This is not to say we do not see her also fight in traditional gear. We might, I havn't, but I've heard she has taken forays into the field where a gown is even more impractical and would no doubt be defeated by thick brambles. I could be wrong, her battle gowns may accompany her anywhere, I'm sure she'll write about this to set the record straight soon, no doubt along with a duel challenge, but that is future Lady Isabetta's problem. For now let us consider the question burning in your mind. How.
First, Despite how impractical her choice of arms and armor sounds, it has some advantages, probably. The gown is made of fairly resilient materials and is surprisingly hard to damage. The excess fabric makes targeting her difficult and tying up your weapons relatively easy. The fact she is wearing it at all makes you underestimate her and yes, she is quite fit and capable on her own. Would she do better fighting without it? Who knows, even in the Lyceum it is considered silly to do battle without proper clothing.
As for the hair sticks, they basically weigh nothing. Once she gets inside the reach of your weapon I dare say Lady Joslyn has all the advantages. Suddenly the gown that seems ridiculously and unwieldy starts tripping you up and those sticks that do not seem particularly threatening are in your face.
I cannot deny that somehow she makes this all work, but I just hope you, future historian, understand exactly why she is met with such disbelief despite her reputation.
Written By Thena
Dec. 8, 2017, 11:57 a.m.(9/24/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Rumors of cursed instruments are exaggerations. I was overly sharp with my friend Lieutenant Estardes one time and bought him a banjo as an apology. The only curse about it is that the man has zero talent.
Written By Hana
Dec. 5, 2017, 1:45 a.m.(9/17/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
I've known Lady Joslyn Stonewood since before she was noble -- since she first walked into my shop what seems like /forever/ ago. She's ordered weapons from me, teased me about my feelings for Leola, and generally been there for me. So I'm glad she was able to come by and talk again.
I've been so locked away in my shop working on my own projects, I sometimes feel like I barely know anyone outside of my family or the Faith any longer. So it's good to remember the friends I have.
I've been so locked away in my shop working on my own projects, I sometimes feel like I barely know anyone outside of my family or the Faith any longer. So it's good to remember the friends I have.
Written By Samael
Dec. 3, 2017, 5:10 p.m.(9/14/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
I am one of Lady Joslyn's biggest fans.
Written By Mae
Nov. 18, 2017, 11:21 a.m.(8/10/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
I believe Lady Joslyn has discovered the true reason that steelsilk was created. Let someone try to rip that dress!
Written By Bliss
Nov. 10, 2017, 9:18 a.m.(7/21/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Lady Joslyn. It is still odd to think of her so when I remember her as an awkward commoner in my days before leaving Tor. I'm glad that we've had the chance to get reacquainted in Arx and finding that she's no longer as awkward as she was a decade ago. I've had few patrons in Arx as charming as she has been, nor found the theater as entertaining than when in her company.
Written By Calista
Nov. 8, 2017, 12:35 p.m.(7/18/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Can't somebody get this poor girl a glass or a bottle of wine? I'm sure there's someone who has the right vintage to soothe all wounds.
Written By Driskell
Nov. 7, 2017, 6:08 p.m.(7/16/1007 AR)
Relationship Note on Joslyn
Not all wounds are to be healed in this lifetime, but all experiences can teach.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.