Written By Acacia
Jan. 26, 2024, 8:07 p.m.(8/17/1021 AR)
Relationship Note on Kastelon
I swore. A lot. I might have broken a table and a good bottle or two. I cursed your name. A lot. Again and again. First in pain and then in loss.
Wasn’t supposed to go down like that. My brother in arms. My crewmate. My friend.
You were always the first to rise to defend and the last to leave the battle. You always wanted to hold the line until everyone was safe. I thought I might have to drag you out you were so determined to save lives. How the hell I would have managed wrestling a man of your size I have no idea.
You were, as you often said, a bear of a man. A proper one. A great one. Big, tough and strong as they come with a heart to match. Calm in your work and ferocious in a fight. Easy in own your skin. That subtle glint in your eye when you were amused or teasing the shite out of someone. Never knew if you were being straight or ribbing sometimes. I think that amused you.
You lost your eye and you didn’t let it stop you. I think in some ways caused you to see the world better.
One of the most honorable and damned loyal men I have ever met. You never ever wavered from your sense of duty and devotion to your people and family. Gave more than you ever got. Drove me crazy. Even got you killed. I still admire it. But you deserved better.
Generous, yes. With time, silver and kindness. Taught our wee ones in the Lowers and Torian’s orphanage how to track and hunt, use a bow, dress a kill and live off the land. Made time for them when you didn’t have to. You would have probably made a great father some day.
I can’t bring myself to tell them that the bear man is gone. They keep asking when they'll go out next. Where's Lord Kastelon? Kills me a little where I might have had a little heart left. They’re tough as hardtack, but this is gonna break their little hearts.
But you taught them well, and, when they are older and have their wee ones of their own, they’ll share your skills and tell them of the silky bear who bothered to make time for them.
Held your drink and friends well. Your smiles rare. Your advice sound. Your company always good even when the weight of the world lay on your shoulders. You never picked a fight nor picked on anyone. Always looking out for others. You treated everyone respect and earned it in the process.
You were unshakeable. And now you are not here.
I should have been there and had your back. Something I will regret till the day I die.
I should have kidnapped you and made you a Culler, but I know you. It wouldn’t take.
You could have sailed away, but you didn’t. You never would. You were your own man and your own solid sense of what was fair and right infused into ever fiber of your being. Resolute.
Know that you are honored. Know that you are always a member of my crew. Know that you will be remembered for as long as I live. For as long as each life you touched and made better endures. For as long these words live here. And, know that I will protect others if I can, as you would have done of you were still here.
Rest well, brother bear. Rest well, my friend. Feel better soon. This is not the end.
Wasn’t supposed to go down like that. My brother in arms. My crewmate. My friend.
You were always the first to rise to defend and the last to leave the battle. You always wanted to hold the line until everyone was safe. I thought I might have to drag you out you were so determined to save lives. How the hell I would have managed wrestling a man of your size I have no idea.
You were, as you often said, a bear of a man. A proper one. A great one. Big, tough and strong as they come with a heart to match. Calm in your work and ferocious in a fight. Easy in own your skin. That subtle glint in your eye when you were amused or teasing the shite out of someone. Never knew if you were being straight or ribbing sometimes. I think that amused you.
You lost your eye and you didn’t let it stop you. I think in some ways caused you to see the world better.
One of the most honorable and damned loyal men I have ever met. You never ever wavered from your sense of duty and devotion to your people and family. Gave more than you ever got. Drove me crazy. Even got you killed. I still admire it. But you deserved better.
Generous, yes. With time, silver and kindness. Taught our wee ones in the Lowers and Torian’s orphanage how to track and hunt, use a bow, dress a kill and live off the land. Made time for them when you didn’t have to. You would have probably made a great father some day.
I can’t bring myself to tell them that the bear man is gone. They keep asking when they'll go out next. Where's Lord Kastelon? Kills me a little where I might have had a little heart left. They’re tough as hardtack, but this is gonna break their little hearts.
But you taught them well, and, when they are older and have their wee ones of their own, they’ll share your skills and tell them of the silky bear who bothered to make time for them.
Held your drink and friends well. Your smiles rare. Your advice sound. Your company always good even when the weight of the world lay on your shoulders. You never picked a fight nor picked on anyone. Always looking out for others. You treated everyone respect and earned it in the process.
You were unshakeable. And now you are not here.
I should have been there and had your back. Something I will regret till the day I die.
I should have kidnapped you and made you a Culler, but I know you. It wouldn’t take.
You could have sailed away, but you didn’t. You never would. You were your own man and your own solid sense of what was fair and right infused into ever fiber of your being. Resolute.
Know that you are honored. Know that you are always a member of my crew. Know that you will be remembered for as long as I live. For as long as each life you touched and made better endures. For as long these words live here. And, know that I will protect others if I can, as you would have done of you were still here.
Rest well, brother bear. Rest well, my friend. Feel better soon. This is not the end.
Written By Acacia
Dec. 29, 2022, 5:32 p.m.(2/19/1019 AR)
Funny how things change. I remember another time. Way back. Running with bare feet through the dirty streets, stealing apples, getting into places we had no business being, avoiding a swat or a right arse kicking. Scattering like rabbits when the Iron Guard comes marching by. They never chased us. Not worth their noting. But we took it as if we were the fucking King of the Lowers Lord being tracked for the taking.
We, the wild and free wee denizens of the Lowers. The world was our oyster, or so we liked to think. This place our kingdom, if you believed us as we swapped tales as we lay flat on sun-soaked stone roof tiles watching the stars and making our plans for when we would take our thrones. Ah, all the grand plans for improvements if we ruled the land.
So many of us are dead now. Or gone. Those that remain are all changed. We're not who we were. Growing up is a rough and bloody business in our world. But sometimes, just sometimes you can see who we were in there. Laced loud and proud in a real laugh or a whisper of it when we get all inspired or something good is anticipated. A look, a quip, or in a shared old jest with a friend.
More of us will go soon, and one day all of us will be dead. And, the new kings and queens of the Lowers will be born and soon make their plans and starry wishes on warm summer rooftops.
I hope they reach those stars they're wishing on. I hope it's everything and more that they're dreaming of.
We, the wild and free wee denizens of the Lowers. The world was our oyster, or so we liked to think. This place our kingdom, if you believed us as we swapped tales as we lay flat on sun-soaked stone roof tiles watching the stars and making our plans for when we would take our thrones. Ah, all the grand plans for improvements if we ruled the land.
So many of us are dead now. Or gone. Those that remain are all changed. We're not who we were. Growing up is a rough and bloody business in our world. But sometimes, just sometimes you can see who we were in there. Laced loud and proud in a real laugh or a whisper of it when we get all inspired or something good is anticipated. A look, a quip, or in a shared old jest with a friend.
More of us will go soon, and one day all of us will be dead. And, the new kings and queens of the Lowers will be born and soon make their plans and starry wishes on warm summer rooftops.
I hope they reach those stars they're wishing on. I hope it's everything and more that they're dreaming of.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 28, 2022, 11 a.m.(4/12/1018 AR)
Trust is essential to surviving my line of work. It's not always there or as sure as you want, but if you're lucky you have people who have your back.
I've been lucky in my life and, with luck, hopefully my luck will not run out or betray me.
I've been lucky in my life and, with luck, hopefully my luck will not run out or betray me.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 14, 2022, 5:39 p.m.(3/13/1018 AR)
Relationship Note on Kastelon
A milk run, he said. It will be a milk run.
I don't know much about cattle, but it seems to me, it was all of the tugging and none of the cream.
Fucking Artshall.
I don't know much about cattle, but it seems to me, it was all of the tugging and none of the cream.
Fucking Artshall.
Written By Acacia
June 5, 2022, 4:26 p.m.(10/10/1017 AR)
Proud of my crew. Proud to see Culler come through for the compact again.
Written By Acacia
April 3, 2022, 2:49 p.m.(5/24/1017 AR)
Last night on the third shift we got to talking about life and adventures. As expected, a few of the new, more cocksure crew started strutting fine over the number of men they've downed in a fight.
Many of the veterans and old salts smiled smug. They got nothing to prove. I wonder, though, if they even remember an exact number. I know I don't.
Many of the veterans and old salts smiled smug. They got nothing to prove. I wonder, though, if they even remember an exact number. I know I don't.
Written By Acacia
Feb. 6, 2022, 8:36 p.m.(1/25/1017 AR)
I've known and been close to mercenaries throughout my life. The men and women who make their way in the world as sellswords, private guardsmen and the like. They're a pragmatic group. Always quick with a laugh or a story. No one fights or drinks harder or better. And, there's something that makes me grin at a crew that knows what they're doing.
I'm not above a bit of silver for my troubles when it comes to going into battle, but some fights are just worth having. I can hear the ribbing I'd get for this sentiment from some, but I also know some of those same bastards are not without at least some kind of little soft spot for charity cases and hapless causes. The good ones anyway.
The big fibbers would probably say it's bad for business to let that be known. There's truth to it, I know. But Gods, I do love them for that kind of secret gallantry. Watching that inner war that happens when they're considering going against their usual nature, better judgement and desire for coin. It's maybe one of the most heartening and amusing thing I've ever had the pleasure to watch.
I'm not above a bit of silver for my troubles when it comes to going into battle, but some fights are just worth having. I can hear the ribbing I'd get for this sentiment from some, but I also know some of those same bastards are not without at least some kind of little soft spot for charity cases and hapless causes. The good ones anyway.
The big fibbers would probably say it's bad for business to let that be known. There's truth to it, I know. But Gods, I do love them for that kind of secret gallantry. Watching that inner war that happens when they're considering going against their usual nature, better judgement and desire for coin. It's maybe one of the most heartening and amusing thing I've ever had the pleasure to watch.
Written By Acacia
Jan. 9, 2022, 8:19 p.m.(11/25/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Kastelon
Had some fun with Lord Kastelon at the obstacle course. The man may have one eye, but he's a force to be reckoned with. Glad he's on our side. The bugger nearly beat me.
Written By Acacia
Oct. 24, 2021, 4:19 p.m.(6/11/1016 AR)
Okay, I'll admit it. I'm often made breathless by the beauty of a fine night where the moon is heavy and the stars are bright.
That's not so say I don't love a sunny day, but there's something in the blood that sings when the sun finally starts to fade.
I suppose in a way it makes sense. After all, outlaws, lovers, poets and artists oft do their best work in the dead of night.
That's not so say I don't love a sunny day, but there's something in the blood that sings when the sun finally starts to fade.
I suppose in a way it makes sense. After all, outlaws, lovers, poets and artists oft do their best work in the dead of night.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 19, 2021, 2:37 p.m.(3/25/1016 AR)
I heard about the decision at the assembly. Every bravo and fishmonger's wife is tittering about it as if it makes any true difference.
I actually don't think anything has changed. Other than it will take a little longer for those who have friends in high places to be elevated, it's always been this way. The only thing different is that they're just stating it openly. I actually don't mind the clarity.
Though, I suppose this means my lofty dreams of lady-shipping are lost. Whatever shall I do?
Honestly, I was never under the misguided assumption that a commoner like me would ever be so loftily placed for all my childhood daydreaming. I am what I am and I like it that way.
And, why should I not? I'm one of the illustrious and fiery Queens of the Lowers. Our numbers are many. Each lass a fierce and formidable, glorious example of our own nobility in their own way. We've got dozens down here and we don't need some silk's approval to affirm our position or passions.
So, I don't know what the whining is about. We all know that most of us are not marked for that. So, let's just get on with living our lives and doing the best we can to do right by our own just as we've always done.
I actually don't think anything has changed. Other than it will take a little longer for those who have friends in high places to be elevated, it's always been this way. The only thing different is that they're just stating it openly. I actually don't mind the clarity.
Though, I suppose this means my lofty dreams of lady-shipping are lost. Whatever shall I do?
Honestly, I was never under the misguided assumption that a commoner like me would ever be so loftily placed for all my childhood daydreaming. I am what I am and I like it that way.
And, why should I not? I'm one of the illustrious and fiery Queens of the Lowers. Our numbers are many. Each lass a fierce and formidable, glorious example of our own nobility in their own way. We've got dozens down here and we don't need some silk's approval to affirm our position or passions.
So, I don't know what the whining is about. We all know that most of us are not marked for that. So, let's just get on with living our lives and doing the best we can to do right by our own just as we've always done.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 12, 2021, 1:11 p.m.(3/10/1016 AR)
Was thinking about the dust-twisted nightmare the other eve and about those who helped out Noxy Embassy by gathering their pets up safe and sound.
Credit where credit is due. It wasn't my gentle and patient work that got the bloated buggers back into the Embassy, it was the silks. I was just shouting down from my humble perch where they had wobbled to.
When you think of it, it’s actually kind of impressive in a strange way. Especially considering how the monstrous insects are often harbingers of some god-forsaken, messed up misery, death and destruction. Most would have screamed and turned tail. Especially after Bastian.
And, that it was done without violence, even more impressive. That’s not to say that I have problem with such activities as required. I actually don’t mind a good set-to when my blood is up. Lets a bit of the steam off. In fact, I was getting ready for it, when some lass begged us spare them as she rushed by.
It’s good to know that some of us are clever enough to know when to change tactics and to good results.
Though, I’m still wondering what, or who, the bloody things had been eaten. Mackey says mages considering how blood-drunk they were. Not a pretty thought. I think he was jesting. Or maybe not. Hard to tell with him when the man’s been in his cups.
Credit where credit is due. It wasn't my gentle and patient work that got the bloated buggers back into the Embassy, it was the silks. I was just shouting down from my humble perch where they had wobbled to.
When you think of it, it’s actually kind of impressive in a strange way. Especially considering how the monstrous insects are often harbingers of some god-forsaken, messed up misery, death and destruction. Most would have screamed and turned tail. Especially after Bastian.
And, that it was done without violence, even more impressive. That’s not to say that I have problem with such activities as required. I actually don’t mind a good set-to when my blood is up. Lets a bit of the steam off. In fact, I was getting ready for it, when some lass begged us spare them as she rushed by.
It’s good to know that some of us are clever enough to know when to change tactics and to good results.
Though, I’m still wondering what, or who, the bloody things had been eaten. Mackey says mages considering how blood-drunk they were. Not a pretty thought. I think he was jesting. Or maybe not. Hard to tell with him when the man’s been in his cups.
Written By Acacia
Sept. 5, 2021, 5:57 p.m.(2/25/1016 AR)
Got some interesting information from a trusted source. Much to ruminate on.
It's funny how when you get a little enlightenment on one thing, the more other things seem to be cast in deeper shadows. I'm either going to have to find some better illumination or become more adept at working in the dark.
Either is fine by me so long as me and mine find our way through this little adventure.
It's funny how when you get a little enlightenment on one thing, the more other things seem to be cast in deeper shadows. I'm either going to have to find some better illumination or become more adept at working in the dark.
Either is fine by me so long as me and mine find our way through this little adventure.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 29, 2021, 1 p.m.(2/10/1016 AR)
Met with Raja and Prince Patrizio last night to talk of the planning for a new road. It was good to see Sweet Sam there as well and a brief but welcome appearance by Goodman Zakhar.
Obviously, there's much to be done and many folk to speak and consult with, support to build, and people to bring on board, but it seems to be all coming together.
It will be a good thing for all in the end. Certainly for the Lowers and those that trade and sail. It's rather a welcome thing to see a project weigh anchor that will benefit both nobles and common folk.
So with more meetings planned, starting with the Commoner Council, and missives to send to various ministers of the realm and to those who good souls who offered to help at the onset of all this, that being the Crown Minister of Civil Development, Marquessa Samantha Deepwood, Crown Minister of Coin and Leader of the Silver Consortium, Rook Champagne and Lady Mabelle Laurent, we begin charting a new course to a better Arx.
Here's to building new roads and stronger bridges between us.
Obviously, there's much to be done and many folk to speak and consult with, support to build, and people to bring on board, but it seems to be all coming together.
It will be a good thing for all in the end. Certainly for the Lowers and those that trade and sail. It's rather a welcome thing to see a project weigh anchor that will benefit both nobles and common folk.
So with more meetings planned, starting with the Commoner Council, and missives to send to various ministers of the realm and to those who good souls who offered to help at the onset of all this, that being the Crown Minister of Civil Development, Marquessa Samantha Deepwood, Crown Minister of Coin and Leader of the Silver Consortium, Rook Champagne and Lady Mabelle Laurent, we begin charting a new course to a better Arx.
Here's to building new roads and stronger bridges between us.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 22, 2021, 2:38 p.m.(1/25/1016 AR)
I've always been proud of our family. Nice to see some of them recognized for their work in a more public fashion.
Cullers have always cared for those they live and work with and do what we could for the community. The goods must flow and this is just another way of seeing it so.
Couldn't be more proud of the Culler lasses. There will be more to come I'm sure.
Cullers have always cared for those they live and work with and do what we could for the community. The goods must flow and this is just another way of seeing it so.
Couldn't be more proud of the Culler lasses. There will be more to come I'm sure.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 22, 2021, 2:37 p.m.(1/25/1016 AR)
Take a trip to Bastion they said. It will be fun, they said...
Written By Acacia
Aug. 15, 2021, 9:39 p.m.(1/11/1016 AR)
We tend to simplify things in the world, but things are rarely as simple as they seem when you think about it.
For example, who is more dangerous? The person with nothing left to lose or the person with everything to lose? I say it depends on the person and the circumstances.
If you don't see the whole picture it's hard to tell if you're looking at a fur rug or a live bear.
For example, who is more dangerous? The person with nothing left to lose or the person with everything to lose? I say it depends on the person and the circumstances.
If you don't see the whole picture it's hard to tell if you're looking at a fur rug or a live bear.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 15, 2021, 7:51 p.m.(1/11/1016 AR)
Winter came earlier than expected this year and we just had enough time to make a few touch and go runs up and down the coast before the real storms start hit the coast.
We'll be back at it soon enough, but for now my purse is heavier, my heart a little lighter, and and there's work do be done in town.
Hopefully, we can get much of it done before we're casting off again.
We'll be back at it soon enough, but for now my purse is heavier, my heart a little lighter, and and there's work do be done in town.
Hopefully, we can get much of it done before we're casting off again.
Written By Acacia
Aug. 1, 2021, 3:35 a.m.(12/10/1015 AR)
After a night at the Murder over drinks, it seems that our Raja, Prince Patrizio and I have come to the conclusion that might a fine idea to consider joining forces with all those in the Lowers to improve the main road through the boroughs to the docks.
Though at present this is merely the maiden blush of this venture, I can honestly say that many will benefit from going this way, but so, too, many will be needed to accomplish it.
But if it's one thing I know, the folk in the Lowers – Culler, Ulbran, Grayhope and the many other families – always know how to find a way to work together. I also suspect that the noble houses who live above bridge will also see why joining us would profit them as well. All in all, it's a recipe for a mutually beneficial improvement for our city’s citizens and economy.
I do enjoy a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Though at present this is merely the maiden blush of this venture, I can honestly say that many will benefit from going this way, but so, too, many will be needed to accomplish it.
But if it's one thing I know, the folk in the Lowers – Culler, Ulbran, Grayhope and the many other families – always know how to find a way to work together. I also suspect that the noble houses who live above bridge will also see why joining us would profit them as well. All in all, it's a recipe for a mutually beneficial improvement for our city’s citizens and economy.
I do enjoy a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Written By Acacia
June 6, 2021, 8:37 p.m.(8/11/1015 AR)
I'll admit it. There's a part of me that appreciates the heated release and effectiveness of settling things physically.
Might not be smart, diplomatic, courtly or even the best way, but there is an honesty about it. Especially, when the battle is done and the dispute, and all the rancor that goes with it, is left behind by all involved. Just getting it out of both your systems and getting on with better things.
However, I get the sense that good, clean set-tos followed by mutual agreement to let things cool so that folks can move forward in a more affable if not more respectful way is perhaps all too rare an outcome these days. Grudges can grow deep roots with some.
Might not be smart, diplomatic, courtly or even the best way, but there is an honesty about it. Especially, when the battle is done and the dispute, and all the rancor that goes with it, is left behind by all involved. Just getting it out of both your systems and getting on with better things.
However, I get the sense that good, clean set-tos followed by mutual agreement to let things cool so that folks can move forward in a more affable if not more respectful way is perhaps all too rare an outcome these days. Grudges can grow deep roots with some.
Written By Acacia
May 2, 2021, 9 p.m.(5/25/1015 AR)
Proud. So proud to see the Culler crew rise up to fight for the Compact both at home and at sea. We know that freedom comes with a price and Culler has never been afraid to do our part.
Now that our ladies are home safe in port, we can take a breath and a moment to remember and raise a glass to our fallen and injured. Their sacrifices will not be forgotten. It was an honor to stand with you.
Now that our ladies are home safe in port, we can take a breath and a moment to remember and raise a glass to our fallen and injured. Their sacrifices will not be forgotten. It was an honor to stand with you.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.