Written By Aiden
April 30, 2021, 5:29 p.m.(5/21/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Grazia
My Duchess wife,
Most of the Arvum will never get to know you the way I have. I treasure those moments that I got to see the woman behind the title and responsibilities. Know that I was very glad and honored to serve at your side, but if something should happen to me, please take care of our three beautiful daughters. They will need comforting if something should go awry. And if something should, I hope you find the love you've always wanted and what I could never give. Hold your chin up high and never be afraid.
Aileyna, Zaria, and Thaliana, you three were the light of my life these last few years. I leaned heavily on seeing your smiling faces to brighten my own. I love you my sweet girls. If something happens to me, know that I went to war for you three, for your futures, above my own. Be brave in the storms to come my darlings, your time to Dream is still yet to come.
I'm most proud, of all my girls.
Love,
Dad
Most of the Arvum will never get to know you the way I have. I treasure those moments that I got to see the woman behind the title and responsibilities. Know that I was very glad and honored to serve at your side, but if something should happen to me, please take care of our three beautiful daughters. They will need comforting if something should go awry. And if something should, I hope you find the love you've always wanted and what I could never give. Hold your chin up high and never be afraid.
Aileyna, Zaria, and Thaliana, you three were the light of my life these last few years. I leaned heavily on seeing your smiling faces to brighten my own. I love you my sweet girls. If something happens to me, know that I went to war for you three, for your futures, above my own. Be brave in the storms to come my darlings, your time to Dream is still yet to come.
I'm most proud, of all my girls.
Love,
Dad
Written By Aiden
April 29, 2021, 3:25 p.m.(5/19/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Silas
My Beloved Silas,
The best memories I had in this life were the ones spent with you. I can freely admit that, because that is the truth, even when we were almost dying. My heart always soared in your presence and you could keep the tear from my eye. With a touch to my cheek, all would be right with the world. You allowed me to always be who I was and without judgement for it. You encouraged me to be whom I was and you risked wealth and reputation upon one of my biggest ventures, the Mews... You were always my hero. I will take your favour into this battle and wear it fondly.
My biggest regret, is that I was never allowed to call you my Husband. That was a story restricted from us, by the bonds of duty and faith to one's family. It hasn't been all bad since, it's been different though. If I could do it all over again, I may have stayed the course we chose, but you know, I always wished to live at your side. I always wished we could arrive together at parties, proud of it, smiling as we used too, when we were younger men. Perhaps my second biggest regret is that I didn't hug you enough, kiss you enough, lounge in bed with you enough. There will be never enough of those moments.
Should something happen to me, this war, know that I never stopped loving you, not for one moment. You made this city a home for me, because you were in it. Without you, I would've left back to Bastion years ago. You held me here, in a way only a man I love, could.
Yours, always, and forever,
Your Bird Prince.
The best memories I had in this life were the ones spent with you. I can freely admit that, because that is the truth, even when we were almost dying. My heart always soared in your presence and you could keep the tear from my eye. With a touch to my cheek, all would be right with the world. You allowed me to always be who I was and without judgement for it. You encouraged me to be whom I was and you risked wealth and reputation upon one of my biggest ventures, the Mews... You were always my hero. I will take your favour into this battle and wear it fondly.
My biggest regret, is that I was never allowed to call you my Husband. That was a story restricted from us, by the bonds of duty and faith to one's family. It hasn't been all bad since, it's been different though. If I could do it all over again, I may have stayed the course we chose, but you know, I always wished to live at your side. I always wished we could arrive together at parties, proud of it, smiling as we used too, when we were younger men. Perhaps my second biggest regret is that I didn't hug you enough, kiss you enough, lounge in bed with you enough. There will be never enough of those moments.
Should something happen to me, this war, know that I never stopped loving you, not for one moment. You made this city a home for me, because you were in it. Without you, I would've left back to Bastion years ago. You held me here, in a way only a man I love, could.
Yours, always, and forever,
Your Bird Prince.
Written By Aiden
April 29, 2021, 3:11 p.m.(5/19/1015 AR)
Of my last will and testament,
While I do not go to battle thinking I shall fail, I go to this one with an uneasy feeling regardless. I will be there with Gemecitta's tribute to the war efforts in Pieros. So it would be unwise to go without writing fresh thoughts to this, possibility.
I have reached out as best I could to part with what I could before I go, since I had gained so much through the years. I may have kept the crafter's in business all those years back, with how much I've acquired, too much, to go through in minute detail. You should see my perfume collection!
I think back and remember the first time, ten years ago, setting foot into the city of Arx and what a different place it had been - one seen through the lenses of boyhood wonder, a golden era, for me. I spent my first years creating the Menagerie in which has brought joy to all the people of the city, which is my hope at least. I spent later years, researching an ally that could be helpful in the times to come. I fought in many wars already and while I'm not yet to my 30th's birthday, I feel tired and weary of it all. But the people, I met, have certainly lifted any tiredness from me.
And Silas, will always be my beloved. Our love story began when he sat beside me and my brother. I should like to think of those days again, before either of us were bound to duty that caused us to drift apart, more and more with every passing year. Though it is a relationship I will cherish and will keep me hopeful that there's still many more years left.
But as for fighting, I can see now, the wars will never end. They will just keep going. There will always be another force threatening at our doorstep and I had hoped, once, to serve my King and realm with bravery and courage, to find a solution to an ideal world of peace. I had hoped to give my daughters a realm in which they could grow up in and marry whom they wanted, love who they wanted, and flourish and do anything they wanted. Unfortunately, the blot of hatred and these continued wars, make that particular future more and more distant.
Yet I go to war anyway. That is my duty. That is the cost of my noble blood, to rise to the demands to protect those who depend on us. I go with a chin held high but a heavy heart. I love my daughters, and I hope to see them again.
But if I do not... here are my wishes:
To my family and friends, I would wish that you have access to all the wonderful things that I've collected. Baron Silas will have direction of the items of mine left in Whitehawk manor. Duchess Grazia, will of course, have direction of items left at the Plaza Unita. I would recommend, speaking to them, about the distribution of any memories I have left behind.
Things after all, are not so important to me anymore. I spoke of this to my wife, the night before I left for Gemecitta and her navy. Memories are what is important.
So here is my real request:
If I die, quietly, or loudly, within this war, my spirit would be laid to rest easier, should there be memories of how we met, or what you remember of me, in these white pages. That's the greatest honor you can give me, so I am not forgotten...
I have gotten to know many of you and I have loved you all fondly and are all dear to my heart.
Treat each other well. And kindly.
Fight with honor.
As Duke, I will Proudly Fly The Black Falcon to Pieros. Ever Poised.
While I do not go to battle thinking I shall fail, I go to this one with an uneasy feeling regardless. I will be there with Gemecitta's tribute to the war efforts in Pieros. So it would be unwise to go without writing fresh thoughts to this, possibility.
I have reached out as best I could to part with what I could before I go, since I had gained so much through the years. I may have kept the crafter's in business all those years back, with how much I've acquired, too much, to go through in minute detail. You should see my perfume collection!
I think back and remember the first time, ten years ago, setting foot into the city of Arx and what a different place it had been - one seen through the lenses of boyhood wonder, a golden era, for me. I spent my first years creating the Menagerie in which has brought joy to all the people of the city, which is my hope at least. I spent later years, researching an ally that could be helpful in the times to come. I fought in many wars already and while I'm not yet to my 30th's birthday, I feel tired and weary of it all. But the people, I met, have certainly lifted any tiredness from me.
And Silas, will always be my beloved. Our love story began when he sat beside me and my brother. I should like to think of those days again, before either of us were bound to duty that caused us to drift apart, more and more with every passing year. Though it is a relationship I will cherish and will keep me hopeful that there's still many more years left.
But as for fighting, I can see now, the wars will never end. They will just keep going. There will always be another force threatening at our doorstep and I had hoped, once, to serve my King and realm with bravery and courage, to find a solution to an ideal world of peace. I had hoped to give my daughters a realm in which they could grow up in and marry whom they wanted, love who they wanted, and flourish and do anything they wanted. Unfortunately, the blot of hatred and these continued wars, make that particular future more and more distant.
Yet I go to war anyway. That is my duty. That is the cost of my noble blood, to rise to the demands to protect those who depend on us. I go with a chin held high but a heavy heart. I love my daughters, and I hope to see them again.
But if I do not... here are my wishes:
To my family and friends, I would wish that you have access to all the wonderful things that I've collected. Baron Silas will have direction of the items of mine left in Whitehawk manor. Duchess Grazia, will of course, have direction of items left at the Plaza Unita. I would recommend, speaking to them, about the distribution of any memories I have left behind.
Things after all, are not so important to me anymore. I spoke of this to my wife, the night before I left for Gemecitta and her navy. Memories are what is important.
So here is my real request:
If I die, quietly, or loudly, within this war, my spirit would be laid to rest easier, should there be memories of how we met, or what you remember of me, in these white pages. That's the greatest honor you can give me, so I am not forgotten...
I have gotten to know many of you and I have loved you all fondly and are all dear to my heart.
Treat each other well. And kindly.
Fight with honor.
As Duke, I will Proudly Fly The Black Falcon to Pieros. Ever Poised.
Written By Aiden
March 3, 2021, 11:08 p.m.(1/18/1015 AR)
Nothing matters anymore.
Written By Aiden
Dec. 16, 2020, 2:54 a.m.(7/27/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerius
It has been such a long time, such a very long time, since I've allowed myself a friendship as deep as the one Estaban and I had. Years, someone said 6... has it truly been that long? Six years then, without letting anyone close enough, truly close enough that my laugh wasn't a total malarkey. There are those, like my protege, Lady Monique, that I have rekindled a relationship with recently, but again, it was recent, after... Valerius... I came to realize the deep ties that I had before Estaban's death, I had let slip, let go, and sail away, as Estaban sailed away.
There are some things that are too hard to do over. I didn't want to care that deeply for more people than I could possibly bear. My beloved Knight and my dearest wife and my children, are my inner circle allowed to see the deepest. And to the outsider of my heart, I let them see what they needed to see. A man who is flighty, one that is eccentric, one that is here and there like a bird. I wouldn't give myself, all that I could, for a friendship, when I know, I would inevitably be unable to be there for them when they needed me the most. Life is funny that way.
That glass shark stole something from me. Not only did it steal away my friend, it stole away my hope for being able to save my friend, the way he had saved me once. It left a hole inside of me. I accepted it, I did. I do, I got to say goodbye in a way many can never do. Yet, the loss lingered. I pulled away.
Six years...
This year, Emberly came into my life. Emberly, a woman I highly doubt would ever do as they claim she did. It was she who responded to a desperate plea for help, as I had a terrible realization of loneliness. I needed to try and connect again, with people. I had returned to the city of Arx after a year away in Gemecitta. I recognized the pain was an ache for friendship, TRUE friendship, one that didn't just take from you, but filled your cup as much as you filled their own. Emberly, bless her heart, helped me find the way toward such a friendship. It was at her event, hosted as a charity fundraiser at the Golden Hart, where poetry was read and the audience had to vote with silver on the best poem of the night, that I rediscovered the possibility for a long lived friendship.
That's the first night I saw Valerius. He stood upon the stage and read out loud a very bold poem. It was not long after, that he sat with me and we shared drinks, and I questioned him on who the poem was written for. He had written it on the whim, in that moment, spinning the needed words from his lips to get a few hearts to flutter. From there, we had drinks. Valerius got annoyed, perhaps by the many messengers I was getting that night, or that he was, and one of the messengers got wine tossed upon them by him. I scolded Valerius for it, and decided to call it a night.
He didn't let me go, not on that sour note. He followed me outside and made amends. It was enough, but I challenged him to "do better."
I would like to think, he took that to heart. That he wanted to 'do better' after we met. I would like to think that, but from the missives and journals, I have read of others touched by Valerius, I think he gave me the opportunity to do better, not the other way around.
He was in constant communication with me, encouraging as it was, I enjoyed the notes and finding my idle afternoons brightened by just a slip of a letter from him. A lot of the times, they were silly musings. Even from afar, he would make me laugh, and remind me, to do better. Do better with my day, go outside, go meet people, stop being scared. Stop being guarded.
I admit, we grew close. I was beginning to believe in being able to have a friend to be merry with. To drink and gamble with, to sit in quiet places with, to play music and song with. It was a comforting thing, but I knew we were both always busy in our own ways. Still, it wouldn't be too long before a missive came by, to say hi, to check in, to be a friend. It wouldn't be too long before we met for some weekly bantering.
Then lo and behold, the blood moon masquerade came. I felt in good spirits, to actually attend. I dressed as a Raven. And guess who showed up as the only other Raven that night? It was so ironic and yet, a tell tale story of the way we connected. I never told him I was going and he never told me. We certainly didn't coordinate our costumes, yet, that is what they were. What a party. Dancing. So much dancing. And laughing. Oh there was laughing.
It was sometime later, that Valerius confided in me, and I him. I admit, I was always a little hesitant, but when he threw down his cards, I bravely accepted he wasn't going to turn me into a pile of bugs or something horrific - wars with magical creatures does cause one to have trust issues - so I'm told. Valerius, though, he was truly, a friend. He wanted me to believe in him too, but he wanted me to believe in myself again as well. I remember the days of my youth where I was happy and had close friends. He made me believe in that feeling again.
He would be such a refreshing presence. He knew I needed something before I knew it myself. Like the gift he sent me, a corset vest, made for me. Did I give him something back? The man I was before, I would've, but I don't know if I did. And it's regrets like that, which anger me so for he was taken far far far too early. But those sweet moments, he knew I needed, before I did. That's the kind of friend, Valerius was.
I remember him telling me, when I questioned him hard about certain ways he expressed himself to the peerage, that all he wanted was to bring happiness into the lives of anyone who needed it. He wanted to bring sunshine into those lives who had seen far far too much rain. While, I will question the way he died later, and why no one heard his desperate fight, this journal is not for that. This is for him. This is for the man who saw that I had seen too much rain and needed the skies to clear up and the sun to pour through.
This is for another Great and True friend who was supposed to be a life long friend but whose life was ended far too soon.
Valerius. I see you again.
But not yet.
Here's one for you.
"The Gambler" a poem by
Aiden Rubino nee Grayson
His words spun vibrance like the burst of the sun through long held clouds,
windlessly casting aside dark with the cadence of the verse on song,
laughing his furious passion of a Gambler on a thunders drum,
knowing that today, was the only day, that his heart had not been wrong.
For he lived and though he did not live long, his words, would go on.
Believe in yourself, open your heart, be awake this day, be not afraid.
Write that song, sing it, live it, be a part of the days held long.
Speak of love, live love, fly with it, give it, and be not dismayed.
Remember him, of young and noble heart, of true smiles and earnest love,
The courage of heart that gave without fearing, told without tearing
For none so evil, will erase the good that he released upon the wings of doves,
and to live better, it is easy to see, all we have to do, is be as caring as he.
Good bye my dear friend.
There are some things that are too hard to do over. I didn't want to care that deeply for more people than I could possibly bear. My beloved Knight and my dearest wife and my children, are my inner circle allowed to see the deepest. And to the outsider of my heart, I let them see what they needed to see. A man who is flighty, one that is eccentric, one that is here and there like a bird. I wouldn't give myself, all that I could, for a friendship, when I know, I would inevitably be unable to be there for them when they needed me the most. Life is funny that way.
That glass shark stole something from me. Not only did it steal away my friend, it stole away my hope for being able to save my friend, the way he had saved me once. It left a hole inside of me. I accepted it, I did. I do, I got to say goodbye in a way many can never do. Yet, the loss lingered. I pulled away.
Six years...
This year, Emberly came into my life. Emberly, a woman I highly doubt would ever do as they claim she did. It was she who responded to a desperate plea for help, as I had a terrible realization of loneliness. I needed to try and connect again, with people. I had returned to the city of Arx after a year away in Gemecitta. I recognized the pain was an ache for friendship, TRUE friendship, one that didn't just take from you, but filled your cup as much as you filled their own. Emberly, bless her heart, helped me find the way toward such a friendship. It was at her event, hosted as a charity fundraiser at the Golden Hart, where poetry was read and the audience had to vote with silver on the best poem of the night, that I rediscovered the possibility for a long lived friendship.
That's the first night I saw Valerius. He stood upon the stage and read out loud a very bold poem. It was not long after, that he sat with me and we shared drinks, and I questioned him on who the poem was written for. He had written it on the whim, in that moment, spinning the needed words from his lips to get a few hearts to flutter. From there, we had drinks. Valerius got annoyed, perhaps by the many messengers I was getting that night, or that he was, and one of the messengers got wine tossed upon them by him. I scolded Valerius for it, and decided to call it a night.
He didn't let me go, not on that sour note. He followed me outside and made amends. It was enough, but I challenged him to "do better."
I would like to think, he took that to heart. That he wanted to 'do better' after we met. I would like to think that, but from the missives and journals, I have read of others touched by Valerius, I think he gave me the opportunity to do better, not the other way around.
He was in constant communication with me, encouraging as it was, I enjoyed the notes and finding my idle afternoons brightened by just a slip of a letter from him. A lot of the times, they were silly musings. Even from afar, he would make me laugh, and remind me, to do better. Do better with my day, go outside, go meet people, stop being scared. Stop being guarded.
I admit, we grew close. I was beginning to believe in being able to have a friend to be merry with. To drink and gamble with, to sit in quiet places with, to play music and song with. It was a comforting thing, but I knew we were both always busy in our own ways. Still, it wouldn't be too long before a missive came by, to say hi, to check in, to be a friend. It wouldn't be too long before we met for some weekly bantering.
Then lo and behold, the blood moon masquerade came. I felt in good spirits, to actually attend. I dressed as a Raven. And guess who showed up as the only other Raven that night? It was so ironic and yet, a tell tale story of the way we connected. I never told him I was going and he never told me. We certainly didn't coordinate our costumes, yet, that is what they were. What a party. Dancing. So much dancing. And laughing. Oh there was laughing.
It was sometime later, that Valerius confided in me, and I him. I admit, I was always a little hesitant, but when he threw down his cards, I bravely accepted he wasn't going to turn me into a pile of bugs or something horrific - wars with magical creatures does cause one to have trust issues - so I'm told. Valerius, though, he was truly, a friend. He wanted me to believe in him too, but he wanted me to believe in myself again as well. I remember the days of my youth where I was happy and had close friends. He made me believe in that feeling again.
He would be such a refreshing presence. He knew I needed something before I knew it myself. Like the gift he sent me, a corset vest, made for me. Did I give him something back? The man I was before, I would've, but I don't know if I did. And it's regrets like that, which anger me so for he was taken far far far too early. But those sweet moments, he knew I needed, before I did. That's the kind of friend, Valerius was.
I remember him telling me, when I questioned him hard about certain ways he expressed himself to the peerage, that all he wanted was to bring happiness into the lives of anyone who needed it. He wanted to bring sunshine into those lives who had seen far far too much rain. While, I will question the way he died later, and why no one heard his desperate fight, this journal is not for that. This is for him. This is for the man who saw that I had seen too much rain and needed the skies to clear up and the sun to pour through.
This is for another Great and True friend who was supposed to be a life long friend but whose life was ended far too soon.
Valerius. I see you again.
But not yet.
Here's one for you.
"The Gambler" a poem by
Aiden Rubino nee Grayson
His words spun vibrance like the burst of the sun through long held clouds,
windlessly casting aside dark with the cadence of the verse on song,
laughing his furious passion of a Gambler on a thunders drum,
knowing that today, was the only day, that his heart had not been wrong.
For he lived and though he did not live long, his words, would go on.
Believe in yourself, open your heart, be awake this day, be not afraid.
Write that song, sing it, live it, be a part of the days held long.
Speak of love, live love, fly with it, give it, and be not dismayed.
Remember him, of young and noble heart, of true smiles and earnest love,
The courage of heart that gave without fearing, told without tearing
For none so evil, will erase the good that he released upon the wings of doves,
and to live better, it is easy to see, all we have to do, is be as caring as he.
Good bye my dear friend.
Written By Aiden
Dec. 12, 2020, 11:48 p.m.(7/21/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Valerius
One day you were here.... the next day you were gone...
Gone without.. any word..
This breaks my heart.
There's no more I can say but that. My heart breaks yet again.
The losses, keep stacking up.
Gone without.. any word..
This breaks my heart.
There's no more I can say but that. My heart breaks yet again.
The losses, keep stacking up.
Written By Aiden
Nov. 2, 2020, 3:53 p.m.(4/24/1014 AR)
The mirror ball was a welcomed distraction and had a very exceptional end.
While there were truths to learn, and some people punching mirrors, I think all in all, the dancing was good fun.
The more serious matters are on the agenda, so I very much appreciate the ability to let loose, at it were.
I prepare for the assembly to speak of the role we shall all take in the tough times to come.
I'm just grateful that my special friends are doing well. Archibald is such a fabulous gyrfalcon.
While there were truths to learn, and some people punching mirrors, I think all in all, the dancing was good fun.
The more serious matters are on the agenda, so I very much appreciate the ability to let loose, at it were.
I prepare for the assembly to speak of the role we shall all take in the tough times to come.
I'm just grateful that my special friends are doing well. Archibald is such a fabulous gyrfalcon.
Written By Aiden
May 28, 2020, 4:32 p.m.(5/16/1013 AR)
***
I reflected how time has fallen away, as this life of mine stands cast in a lunar glow. The sound of each beat of my heart, stretches up into the cold light of silver stars. There my soul sings like the wind between griffin wings. My sight dives through a darkened sea, wondering how deep I must truly go. If I am awake, there is a world I know I left behind, somewhere below. A breath comes back within, a warmth drawn down the line of my body, as the fires consume the silver corpse.
***
I reflected how time has fallen away, as this life of mine stands cast in a lunar glow. The sound of each beat of my heart, stretches up into the cold light of silver stars. There my soul sings like the wind between griffin wings. My sight dives through a darkened sea, wondering how deep I must truly go. If I am awake, there is a world I know I left behind, somewhere below. A breath comes back within, a warmth drawn down the line of my body, as the fires consume the silver corpse.
***
Written By Aiden
Dec. 11, 2019, 6:49 p.m.(5/11/1012 AR)
It is often cold, when you leave the realms of modern society and head into the vast untamed wilderness, such as we had. It is often straining on one's body to march through the snow, looking for something people haven't seen in many a generation, when all you have to go on, is the past by which we hope remains somewhat still in the present.
Not too long ago, I returned from an expedition that lead is into a great cold, where as we were going to light a fire, bandits surrounded us. Their plight was of a different nature but no less the same, as it surely came down to the nature of survival that lead them to us and our flame. Thankfully my friend was already well aloft from my arm and away from any harm as threats came upon all of our lives. We were out matched, three to one, with no where to run. I resorted immediately to the practice of good cheer and common politeness, asking them to join our numbers, to join the fire, and work for the silver they intended to rob. Alas, they did not see any merit in work when they could easily overwhelm and take all.
Thankfully, my friend, a good friend, one that soars ever higher, found allies in that frozen world. They descended upon the bandits and stood between us and certain ruin. With the spare of silver I had, I beg the bandits leave, so lives were spared, since we all have greater enemies than eachother at our door step. With our allies looking down upon them, they fled. I surely hope my silver filled their bellies and kept them warm, for many a night. I often wonder and I hope, they don't slip into the grasp of those who would never set them free.
But then, our attention was upon our allies, who felt the cold turning colder, if that were such a thing. Restlessness over came them and weary of some growing danger, they took us to their home.
We became their guests for a time, such pleasant memories, such once in an life time memories. I shall endure to help them, as they helped us.
~~~~
I am no poet... but here I try.. for such experiences have inspired... a verse or two I can manage perhaps.
~~~~
We soared from our mortal bonds of the earth
Dancing lawlessly through the unbreaking sky
Stretching our arms with laughter's mirth
Touching the clouds as our souls made their heady cry.
Between sun split clouds our freedom was found
Up and up, over delirious windswept heights,
Into frozen darkness where neither sight nor sound,
Could indicate which way was to the mind the right.
Yet, with tailored grace of a long spent master
Our sails were drawn in to take to quick land
Where a flurry of excitement was spent thereafter
To celebrate the moment we had, firsthand.
~~~~~
I surely think I will leave poetry to those who do it best. Stories are more my thing.
Another book to write, I believe, soon to be bound. A part two from what I wrote many year ago.
Perhaps. Perhaps if I have the time. Memories do best, when written down, afterall.
Not that I shall forget all that transpired.
Not too long ago, I returned from an expedition that lead is into a great cold, where as we were going to light a fire, bandits surrounded us. Their plight was of a different nature but no less the same, as it surely came down to the nature of survival that lead them to us and our flame. Thankfully my friend was already well aloft from my arm and away from any harm as threats came upon all of our lives. We were out matched, three to one, with no where to run. I resorted immediately to the practice of good cheer and common politeness, asking them to join our numbers, to join the fire, and work for the silver they intended to rob. Alas, they did not see any merit in work when they could easily overwhelm and take all.
Thankfully, my friend, a good friend, one that soars ever higher, found allies in that frozen world. They descended upon the bandits and stood between us and certain ruin. With the spare of silver I had, I beg the bandits leave, so lives were spared, since we all have greater enemies than eachother at our door step. With our allies looking down upon them, they fled. I surely hope my silver filled their bellies and kept them warm, for many a night. I often wonder and I hope, they don't slip into the grasp of those who would never set them free.
But then, our attention was upon our allies, who felt the cold turning colder, if that were such a thing. Restlessness over came them and weary of some growing danger, they took us to their home.
We became their guests for a time, such pleasant memories, such once in an life time memories. I shall endure to help them, as they helped us.
~~~~
I am no poet... but here I try.. for such experiences have inspired... a verse or two I can manage perhaps.
~~~~
We soared from our mortal bonds of the earth
Dancing lawlessly through the unbreaking sky
Stretching our arms with laughter's mirth
Touching the clouds as our souls made their heady cry.
Between sun split clouds our freedom was found
Up and up, over delirious windswept heights,
Into frozen darkness where neither sight nor sound,
Could indicate which way was to the mind the right.
Yet, with tailored grace of a long spent master
Our sails were drawn in to take to quick land
Where a flurry of excitement was spent thereafter
To celebrate the moment we had, firsthand.
~~~~~
I surely think I will leave poetry to those who do it best. Stories are more my thing.
Another book to write, I believe, soon to be bound. A part two from what I wrote many year ago.
Perhaps. Perhaps if I have the time. Memories do best, when written down, afterall.
Not that I shall forget all that transpired.
Written By Aiden
Dec. 1, 2019, 10:01 p.m.(4/19/1012 AR)
Relationship Note on Lucita
If it weren't for friends like this woman, I'd be very much in the dark. Thank you, my dear friend. Thank you.
Written By Aiden
Dec. 1, 2019, 9:13 p.m.(4/19/1012 AR)
I was one of the five to be the first in who knows how long to touch the skies once more. It's a night I will never forget for the rest of my life. Dreams, you can make them come true.
Written By Aiden
Aug. 16, 2019, 4:04 p.m.(8/28/1011 AR)
I've come to understand people in our society feel that they must be the subject matter on everyone's lips to feel important, and everyone must know the ins and outs of their lives for them to feel accepted... Or they have to be involved in many many things, to be known. Or perhaps they must die doing something incredibly brave or incredibly stupid to be remembered and appreciated. Such a tragic reality, in the long run.
I was no better. No. I recall what it felt like, to feel inadequate. I remember what I did, to try to be accepted by people who still, to this day, have no place for me in their lives. Oh Vellichor, I laugh at my younger self now. What a pity I wasted all those hours trying to impress people by doing things beyond who I was... for the mere hope of acceptance. I have such a different social circle now, none within whom I need to impress. I hope others take heed in such life lessons, before they waste years of their lives trying to climb social ladders that really, aren't meant for them to climb.
I think, some people will always keep you out of their lives, out of their stories, out of the important decisions they make, all the while trying to keep you content by a kind word said or a whispered promise of inclusion. Some will speak to you as a friend and then when you turn your back, tear you down to another... my mentor says this is part of the political gambit and all too well expected. It was a hard lesson I have learned, in that I should not put effort into these people.
To you, dear reader, I say, these people, are not your people, so do not lay your head low with sadness my friends, if you are excluded or not spoken of in high esteem. Do recall there is a whole world of people to meet, some whom we've yet to embrace into our society. I have faith, you will meet the right ones, when it is time for you to do so and when you do, they will embrace you as a loved one and as your true tribe.
Further, through my own learning and growing, I've come to understand that I've gotten the the most out of my life by following my passions and pursuing my dreams. Not someone else's passions. Not someone else's dreams. When I started to do this, actively pursuing my own dreams, those who were meant to walk beside me, arrived with me on that journey, and they have grown with me, and they have dreamed with me.. and they have never required something of me more than what I was already willing to give.
I say friends, there will be no ladders to climb when you find your people because they will be on your level, becoming a true treasured part of your dream. One that you should appreciate in the moment and walk with them while they're with you. So many personal losses reminded me of that.
Overall, the best part of this journey since I started to actively focus on my dreams? I've been filled with an inner peace and a contentedness. I no longer worry about what I cannot control. I no longer worry about showing up at every social event, although I do miss dressing up once and a while, and I no longer worry about trivial things, or even the larger scale things that constantly threaten our lives. I realized I'm not here to try to figure it all out, I'm only here to impart my dream upon the greater dream.
So I try to do that. Every day.
That said, I love my life as it is. I love my wife, Grazia, a woman I couldn't now think to walk without. I love my two daughters, Ailenya and Zaria... the mornings that I get to spend filled with their little arms around me I treasure happily. I love my beloved Silas, a man that's kept my heart for five years now and has supported me through so much of my growth. I love my mother, father, sister and my brother. I love the extended family and all my friends. I love the adventures life now brings. I love the freedom to pursue my dreams and the fact that I've already accomplished much more than I ever thought I would have.
I love, that I am loved.
Friends. When you stop competing to be loved, to be known, to be ... whatever it is you think will bring you inner satisfaction, and when you instead start a more focused life truly going after what passion sings in your heart, your journey, whatever that is meant to be, will be much more fulfilling and make a lot more sense. It won't be easier, but it will be more rewarding in the end.
Oh and there is Zaria now, she needs me.
Ever Poised and Always Soaring,
Aiden
I was no better. No. I recall what it felt like, to feel inadequate. I remember what I did, to try to be accepted by people who still, to this day, have no place for me in their lives. Oh Vellichor, I laugh at my younger self now. What a pity I wasted all those hours trying to impress people by doing things beyond who I was... for the mere hope of acceptance. I have such a different social circle now, none within whom I need to impress. I hope others take heed in such life lessons, before they waste years of their lives trying to climb social ladders that really, aren't meant for them to climb.
I think, some people will always keep you out of their lives, out of their stories, out of the important decisions they make, all the while trying to keep you content by a kind word said or a whispered promise of inclusion. Some will speak to you as a friend and then when you turn your back, tear you down to another... my mentor says this is part of the political gambit and all too well expected. It was a hard lesson I have learned, in that I should not put effort into these people.
To you, dear reader, I say, these people, are not your people, so do not lay your head low with sadness my friends, if you are excluded or not spoken of in high esteem. Do recall there is a whole world of people to meet, some whom we've yet to embrace into our society. I have faith, you will meet the right ones, when it is time for you to do so and when you do, they will embrace you as a loved one and as your true tribe.
Further, through my own learning and growing, I've come to understand that I've gotten the the most out of my life by following my passions and pursuing my dreams. Not someone else's passions. Not someone else's dreams. When I started to do this, actively pursuing my own dreams, those who were meant to walk beside me, arrived with me on that journey, and they have grown with me, and they have dreamed with me.. and they have never required something of me more than what I was already willing to give.
I say friends, there will be no ladders to climb when you find your people because they will be on your level, becoming a true treasured part of your dream. One that you should appreciate in the moment and walk with them while they're with you. So many personal losses reminded me of that.
Overall, the best part of this journey since I started to actively focus on my dreams? I've been filled with an inner peace and a contentedness. I no longer worry about what I cannot control. I no longer worry about showing up at every social event, although I do miss dressing up once and a while, and I no longer worry about trivial things, or even the larger scale things that constantly threaten our lives. I realized I'm not here to try to figure it all out, I'm only here to impart my dream upon the greater dream.
So I try to do that. Every day.
That said, I love my life as it is. I love my wife, Grazia, a woman I couldn't now think to walk without. I love my two daughters, Ailenya and Zaria... the mornings that I get to spend filled with their little arms around me I treasure happily. I love my beloved Silas, a man that's kept my heart for five years now and has supported me through so much of my growth. I love my mother, father, sister and my brother. I love the extended family and all my friends. I love the adventures life now brings. I love the freedom to pursue my dreams and the fact that I've already accomplished much more than I ever thought I would have.
I love, that I am loved.
Friends. When you stop competing to be loved, to be known, to be ... whatever it is you think will bring you inner satisfaction, and when you instead start a more focused life truly going after what passion sings in your heart, your journey, whatever that is meant to be, will be much more fulfilling and make a lot more sense. It won't be easier, but it will be more rewarding in the end.
Oh and there is Zaria now, she needs me.
Ever Poised and Always Soaring,
Aiden
Written By Aiden
July 11, 2019, 5:06 p.m.(6/12/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Arcelia
Not you too...
My heart cannot take this loss ... not you too.
My heart cannot take this loss ... not you too.
Written By Aiden
June 16, 2019, 11:14 p.m.(4/18/1011 AR)
Well well... that was intriguing.
The meeting went as according to plan and all parties are well informed.
I do hope, when he said he can make fires, he can. We'll need it.
Onwards then.
The meeting went as according to plan and all parties are well informed.
I do hope, when he said he can make fires, he can. We'll need it.
Onwards then.
Written By Aiden
May 24, 2019, 2:26 p.m.(2/28/1011 AR)
If I were to aimlessly wander in a specific direction ... would you go with me?
No really, would you?
Seek me out, if you answered yes.
No really, would you?
Seek me out, if you answered yes.
Written By Aiden
May 24, 2019, 2:22 p.m.(2/28/1011 AR)
I have waned in my duty to the faith by not contributing as I should to my whites. I have much in my mind and little in the ways of recording it. For this, I do ask Vellichor for forgiveness. I do grow afraid I'll find my story lost to the endless tomes of hopes and dreams and thoughts of our world should I fail to add my voice to it. So I strongly try to chide myself to sit down and pen a version of my own and desperately ignore these stacks of unanswered messengers.
I don't know if anyone can understand it, if they can understand me. If they can understand the distraction of a calling that seems so loud in one's head that everything else, seems insignificant. I'm simply going mad at the inaction in pursuit of it over the years. Other problems always seemed to derail me from what I should be doing. And despite the splendor that I had guided to be built, the heights we have reached, I cannot stop the endless thoughts whirling in my head and my true feeling that I need to do something, soon... now.
I need to go.
If anything came from fulfilling my marriage obligations and seeing the contributions of my presence in recent regional conflicts, it was a conclusive reminder I certainly don't belong tied to such strings and chairs and seats of power. No, my story is something else, somewhere else. My path, my story, is on the horizon. Yes. I can see the golden shimmers now. I'm coming. Wait for me.
Until I can find you, I will dream of that time when I'm sitting in the glory of Petrichor on some lonely mountain far far away from any other person, with only avian-kind for company. How I miss those days. They were so simple.
I don't know if anyone can understand it, if they can understand me. If they can understand the distraction of a calling that seems so loud in one's head that everything else, seems insignificant. I'm simply going mad at the inaction in pursuit of it over the years. Other problems always seemed to derail me from what I should be doing. And despite the splendor that I had guided to be built, the heights we have reached, I cannot stop the endless thoughts whirling in my head and my true feeling that I need to do something, soon... now.
I need to go.
If anything came from fulfilling my marriage obligations and seeing the contributions of my presence in recent regional conflicts, it was a conclusive reminder I certainly don't belong tied to such strings and chairs and seats of power. No, my story is something else, somewhere else. My path, my story, is on the horizon. Yes. I can see the golden shimmers now. I'm coming. Wait for me.
Until I can find you, I will dream of that time when I'm sitting in the glory of Petrichor on some lonely mountain far far away from any other person, with only avian-kind for company. How I miss those days. They were so simple.
Written By Aiden
March 29, 2019, 4:55 p.m.(10/28/1010 AR)
As Officiator of the Menagerie and the Sanctuary, I am opening a position to hire as Junior Officiator. This position will directly report to the Officiator and be responsible for learning the duties required of Officiator. These duties include the upkeep of the Menagerie, assisting in coordinating community driven events that require the use of the area, maintaining and expanding present animal compounds, overseeing staff, ensuring the overall care and treatment of animals is kept to a high degree of excellence, ensuring the on-site shops are productive and stocked, and assisting with any needs that are brought to the attention of the office.
Qualifications include being literate and diplomatic, having experience with animals, knowledge in economics or upkeep, and having social merits which benefits communication with various organizations and committees. Interest in this role will secure an stipend. Applicants should be willing to foresee a future dedicated to the Menagerie and the Crown.
Expressions of interest may be forwarded to my office.
Signed,
Aiden Rubino
Duke of Gemecitta
Officiator of the Menagerie
---
I penned this with a quietness in my heart. It was my first project in the city that I could be proud of, though I do find myself with less and less time to focus my attention upon the Menagerie as it deserves. I am proud of what I accomplished with the Menagerie, however, it may be time to consider someone with more time than I, can better see to it's future. I hope to find a successor for the Menagerie, in the months to come.
Qualifications include being literate and diplomatic, having experience with animals, knowledge in economics or upkeep, and having social merits which benefits communication with various organizations and committees. Interest in this role will secure an stipend. Applicants should be willing to foresee a future dedicated to the Menagerie and the Crown.
Expressions of interest may be forwarded to my office.
Signed,
Aiden Rubino
Duke of Gemecitta
Officiator of the Menagerie
---
I penned this with a quietness in my heart. It was my first project in the city that I could be proud of, though I do find myself with less and less time to focus my attention upon the Menagerie as it deserves. I am proud of what I accomplished with the Menagerie, however, it may be time to consider someone with more time than I, can better see to it's future. I hope to find a successor for the Menagerie, in the months to come.
Written By Aiden
Oct. 31, 2018, 4:35 p.m.(11/27/1009 AR)
It's been far too long since I've written in my journal, at least the Whites, so that those who care know that I exist. There are many things to speak of, some that I obviously must reserve for my own thoughts, yet I must find I need to write of what has occupied my free time of late.
Birds.
Simply put, birds.
What else? (Other than my daughter, yes, yes she's a little thing yet).
I informally call myself the Falcon Duke, since my beloved used to call me the Bird Prince, all the same, that same beloved and my dearest wife have both allowed me to dream and dream big. A fanciful construction project will begin very soon, with the funds now secured and in place. I cannot wait for the birds to come and to see a wonder that hasn't been seen in a very long time. The mews will be a spectacle, far greater than what I've made of the Menagerie. Ahh, this, this marvel keeps me busy and keeps me occupied. I'm rather excited about it!
I have given up a lot of responsibility to organizations to pursue my dreams. So, there it is.
Maybe I'll have time to socialize more soon...
Birds.
Simply put, birds.
What else? (Other than my daughter, yes, yes she's a little thing yet).
I informally call myself the Falcon Duke, since my beloved used to call me the Bird Prince, all the same, that same beloved and my dearest wife have both allowed me to dream and dream big. A fanciful construction project will begin very soon, with the funds now secured and in place. I cannot wait for the birds to come and to see a wonder that hasn't been seen in a very long time. The mews will be a spectacle, far greater than what I've made of the Menagerie. Ahh, this, this marvel keeps me busy and keeps me occupied. I'm rather excited about it!
I have given up a lot of responsibility to organizations to pursue my dreams. So, there it is.
Maybe I'll have time to socialize more soon...
Written By Aiden
Sept. 23, 2018, 8:51 p.m.(8/26/1009 AR)
There's missives.... missives everywhere...
Does someone know of a good assistant that can write responses for me?
Really... there's far too many.
Does someone know of a good assistant that can write responses for me?
Really... there's far too many.
Written By Aiden
Sept. 23, 2018, 8:49 p.m.(8/26/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Ainsley
It was great to spend time with my brother this week. He was very happy to hold onto little Aileyna. I hope for more brotherly visits in the future!
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.