Written By Alexis
Oct. 29, 2019, 9:35 a.m.(2/8/1012 AR)
I am back in Arx, after my extended journeys. It feels good. Familiar, yet strange. So much has happened in my absence. I have much to learn. Much to catch up on.
And, no doubt, there will be orders to fill and follow.
I've missed the scent of these streets.
And, no doubt, there will be orders to fill and follow.
I've missed the scent of these streets.
Written By Alexis
Sept. 30, 2018, 9:36 p.m.(9/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Kace
#7
I spoke to Princess Kace Redrain. Warrior of the North. I asked her as I've asked others before. She sent me a letter, which I've transcribed:
"A soldier is, to me, one who has chosen to take upon themselves the burden of duty and responsibility to others.
Each soldier in an army has agreed to take up arms against whatever threatens, not just their own families, but the families of those around them as well.
A soldier is someone who is willing to take up arms to defend their rights, freedoms, and way of life against those who would seek to subvert or destroy that.
Not every man or woman in an army is a soldier, and not every soldier is in an army.
I've watched simple folks pick up arms to defend their neighbors against an enemy, and I've watched trained fighters flee a battlefield.
A true soldier is willing to lay down his or her life to protect those around them."
It's an interesting view - especially as so many others have considered soldiers to exist in their capacity of being in armies, in the taking of orders, in the duty laid upon them by their oaths of fealty.
But then, I suppose that is where it comes in as well - not just sworn duty, but a duty to each other. In creating a community we will stand for.
I quite like this answer.
I spoke to Princess Kace Redrain. Warrior of the North. I asked her as I've asked others before. She sent me a letter, which I've transcribed:
"A soldier is, to me, one who has chosen to take upon themselves the burden of duty and responsibility to others.
Each soldier in an army has agreed to take up arms against whatever threatens, not just their own families, but the families of those around them as well.
A soldier is someone who is willing to take up arms to defend their rights, freedoms, and way of life against those who would seek to subvert or destroy that.
Not every man or woman in an army is a soldier, and not every soldier is in an army.
I've watched simple folks pick up arms to defend their neighbors against an enemy, and I've watched trained fighters flee a battlefield.
A true soldier is willing to lay down his or her life to protect those around them."
It's an interesting view - especially as so many others have considered soldiers to exist in their capacity of being in armies, in the taking of orders, in the duty laid upon them by their oaths of fealty.
But then, I suppose that is where it comes in as well - not just sworn duty, but a duty to each other. In creating a community we will stand for.
I quite like this answer.
Written By Alexis
Sept. 9, 2018, 6:04 p.m.(7/24/1009 AR)
With everything going on, I should probably consider a will. I'll have to write something more formal, later. But I know that I want the Dragon's Daughter and whatever pieces of my paragon's armour survives to be part of the Gold Order's legacy.
Hannah will hopefully agree to look after Sir Betenoir. He seems to like her. As much as he likes anyone.
I have a myriad of fine dresses gifted to me over time. I should probably dole out those, too.
I don't know if Alexander has any interest in keeping the Hearth, but if he doesn't, I'm sure the guild could see to it being handed to an aspiring smith in need.
There's more. One collects a lot of knick-knacks, over time. I just need to get the time to sit down and sort through it all.
Hannah will hopefully agree to look after Sir Betenoir. He seems to like her. As much as he likes anyone.
I have a myriad of fine dresses gifted to me over time. I should probably dole out those, too.
I don't know if Alexander has any interest in keeping the Hearth, but if he doesn't, I'm sure the guild could see to it being handed to an aspiring smith in need.
There's more. One collects a lot of knick-knacks, over time. I just need to get the time to sit down and sort through it all.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 29, 2018, 7:43 p.m.(6/26/1009 AR)
The Gold Order held its first Trial of Reflection, and I served as host and subject. Explaining my deeds and how I felt they had served the gods in various ways. Reflecting on what could be done differently - what I had learned of myself.
In the end, it was a good night, with good food and people I am proud to call friends and peers. And I can now proudly wear the ring of the Order, knowing I have earned it.
I look forward to hearing the tales of my knights, and share in their reflections.
In the end, it was a good night, with good food and people I am proud to call friends and peers. And I can now proudly wear the ring of the Order, knowing I have earned it.
I look forward to hearing the tales of my knights, and share in their reflections.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 27, 2018, 8:52 p.m.(6/22/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Nico
I've had the pleasure of dealing with mistress Nico Khan as a pupil, and have been happy to show her the armorsmithing techniques passed down to me. She's an apt and quick study, and I've no doubt she'll offer up her masterwork soon enough. Once she does, I imagine some of my business will find her instead. And rightfully so - her work is amazing.
I intend to comission her myself. Now I just need to decide what I want her to make.
I intend to comission her myself. Now I just need to decide what I want her to make.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 24, 2018, 9:52 a.m.(6/14/1009 AR)
Miriam informed me that I'd somehow inspired a... Lot of writing, with my current project. I'm flattered to have gotten the attentions of luminaries of various sorts offering their thoughts.
I would like to clarify one thing, about the project. It's not about the definition of the word soldier, but a specificially phrased question, in which I shall put some emphasis.
"What does -being- a soldier mean to -you-".
It is very much a matter of collecting individual perspectives. This is why I sometimes muse about the perspectives I've collected, or ask people to clarify.
I thank you all for your contributions.
I would like to clarify one thing, about the project. It's not about the definition of the word soldier, but a specificially phrased question, in which I shall put some emphasis.
"What does -being- a soldier mean to -you-".
It is very much a matter of collecting individual perspectives. This is why I sometimes muse about the perspectives I've collected, or ask people to clarify.
I thank you all for your contributions.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 23, 2018, 4:19 p.m.(6/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Taldolf
#6
I spoke to Taldolf Ridge, a man-at-arms and officer of Giant's Reach, asking him for his thoughts on what a soldier is. This is what he said:
"What first comes to mind is a soldier is and should be loyal to the house they serve. With any duty that has been called upon them."
He then added:
"Does it mean I go kill the enemy every day, all day long, no. But I view it taking ownership of the duties that are given to the soldier and to see that they are carried out."
So - the responsibility sits with the one who takes up the sword and swears the oath. It makes sense. It's a good view.
I spoke to Taldolf Ridge, a man-at-arms and officer of Giant's Reach, asking him for his thoughts on what a soldier is. This is what he said:
"What first comes to mind is a soldier is and should be loyal to the house they serve. With any duty that has been called upon them."
He then added:
"Does it mean I go kill the enemy every day, all day long, no. But I view it taking ownership of the duties that are given to the soldier and to see that they are carried out."
So - the responsibility sits with the one who takes up the sword and swears the oath. It makes sense. It's a good view.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 22, 2018, 5:31 a.m.(6/10/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Barric
People are writing their memorials of Lord Valerio and Prince Barric.
I never had the pleasure of knowing Lord Valerio. From what is written in the whites, I think I would have liked him.
As for Prince Barric....
The Prince Barric I knew was complicated. We sparred some - he was seeking to master every weapon, I needed to focus on other things, and he was willing and able to help. He handled himself with the certainty of a man who does not doubt who he is. A core of... Integrity. He had his honour. And he had his goals. And that was enough. He could be brusque, but not, I think, mean-spirited in intent. Just very firm on his convictions, whatever they were.
He kept meaning to talk to me about the Gold Order.
We never got to have more than one such conversation, and he had to leave too soon, due to duty.
I suppose that's what happened. He left to soon, due to duty.
Gloria welcome him for his courage. The Queen care for his soul.
Thank you, Prince Barric, for all you were.
I never had the pleasure of knowing Lord Valerio. From what is written in the whites, I think I would have liked him.
As for Prince Barric....
The Prince Barric I knew was complicated. We sparred some - he was seeking to master every weapon, I needed to focus on other things, and he was willing and able to help. He handled himself with the certainty of a man who does not doubt who he is. A core of... Integrity. He had his honour. And he had his goals. And that was enough. He could be brusque, but not, I think, mean-spirited in intent. Just very firm on his convictions, whatever they were.
He kept meaning to talk to me about the Gold Order.
We never got to have more than one such conversation, and he had to leave too soon, due to duty.
I suppose that's what happened. He left to soon, due to duty.
Gloria welcome him for his courage. The Queen care for his soul.
Thank you, Prince Barric, for all you were.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 12, 2018, 11:16 p.m.(5/20/1009 AR)
Calamity strikes. I return to find that some of the old paperwork was thrown out, as requested - and alongside it, my list of comissions. Now I'll have to hire a crier to call out for those who wished to discuss my work to write me again.
It's a dreadful embarrassment.
It's a dreadful embarrassment.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 12, 2018, 11:12 p.m.(5/20/1009 AR)
These past days I've mostly busied myself with simple things - keeping track of the fellows in the forge, and working the paperwork with Miriam for the Order. Still, there's plenty of work just waiting for me and it's an important reminder that I pace myself. The hottest flame burns the quickest, to be sure, and if all the fuel is consumed, it goes out.
Sometimes, taking a breath of air, and relaxing a little is the fuel we need.
Sometimes, taking a breath of air, and relaxing a little is the fuel we need.
Written By Alexis
Aug. 5, 2018, 4:59 p.m.(5/1/1009 AR)
There continues to be interest in the Gold Order, and though I feel somewhat like I'm repeating a spiel when asked, I do still believe in our cause, and merely talking about it fires up my veins.
I am grateful to be in the position I am in.
I am grateful to be in the position I am in.
Written By Alexis
July 31, 2018, 1:18 p.m.(4/18/1009 AR)
It's taken a long time to gather the necessary resources, but today I laid the finishing touch and the final polish on a pair of alaricite gauntlets that, hopefully, will become a heirloom of the Gold Order once I am gone.
I am pleased. And I am hoping that my choice for motif for the gauntlets will be suitable.
Now I just need to find an appropriate scholar that can aid me with some translation matters.
I am pleased. And I am hoping that my choice for motif for the gauntlets will be suitable.
Now I just need to find an appropriate scholar that can aid me with some translation matters.
Written By Alexis
July 30, 2018, 3:01 a.m.(4/16/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Adalyn
#5
Mistress Adalyn Clement, a sellsword of the Valorous Few and presumably the heir to the Barony of Duskshire, came to see me. We talked of various things. I asked her the question: "What does being a soldier mean to you?"
She explained that it was the art of the duel that had initially drawn her to a martial lifestyle, and that the skills were transferrable to a living as a mercenary.
In the end, her answer was simple enough: Money, glory, and the thrill of danger.
It is an interesting perspective. Soldiering feeds many mouths, even in peace-time. But the mercenaries are usually hired for shorter terms, and specific campaigns. Though I suppose they see more of them.
Thank you, mistress Adalyn.
Mistress Adalyn Clement, a sellsword of the Valorous Few and presumably the heir to the Barony of Duskshire, came to see me. We talked of various things. I asked her the question: "What does being a soldier mean to you?"
She explained that it was the art of the duel that had initially drawn her to a martial lifestyle, and that the skills were transferrable to a living as a mercenary.
In the end, her answer was simple enough: Money, glory, and the thrill of danger.
It is an interesting perspective. Soldiering feeds many mouths, even in peace-time. But the mercenaries are usually hired for shorter terms, and specific campaigns. Though I suppose they see more of them.
Thank you, mistress Adalyn.
Written By Alexis
July 28, 2018, 7:38 p.m.(4/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Eithne
While I would of course prefer that people offer at least some of their business to me, I can only concur with Princess Coraline's assessment of Mistress Eithne. She is a master of the craft, and a constant inspiration.
Written By Alexis
July 28, 2018, 7:36 p.m.(4/13/1009 AR)
It is a shame that I missed out on this Tournament of Swords, but needs must - and I'm sure I'll be able to catch up later. For if the event was such an unqualified success as the journals indicate, I expect there will be a repeat, sooner rather than later.
Written By Alexis
July 27, 2018, 5:54 a.m.(4/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Joscelin
I received the goods I comissioned from Mistress Joscelin for the Gold Order. Her work is, as one almost expects these days, beyond compare. I am eternally grateful to you, Mistress Joscelin.
And you charge too little.
And you charge too little.
Written By Alexis
July 22, 2018, 7:36 a.m.(3/28/1009 AR)
I met the Radiant - former Radiant now, I suppose - Whisper Selene only very briefly, and only once. But it was very clear how worthy she was of the title. She did have a splendid gift for becoming like the sun, a central figure in the room, and everyone else was better off for being able to bask in her light. And when she turned her attentions on you, it was amazing.
But the sun sets, and now she's retiring. May her rest be well, and may her lights remain undimmed when she returns to serve Whisper House once again.
I do not envy the Whisper who is to try to match her - but knowing her, and knowing Whisper House, I am sure they will be tireless until they find her match.
But the sun sets, and now she's retiring. May her rest be well, and may her lights remain undimmed when she returns to serve Whisper House once again.
I do not envy the Whisper who is to try to match her - but knowing her, and knowing Whisper House, I am sure they will be tireless until they find her match.
Written By Alexis
July 22, 2018, 7:25 a.m.(3/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Marian
I overheard someone reading a recent journal entry about Princess Marian Redrain to someone else, and I have to agree - she's unsurpassed as far as teachers in the Arts of War go, be it personal combat or leading men or just tactics. I've found a good friend in her, and I am forever grateful.
Written By Alexis
July 22, 2018, 7:21 a.m.(3/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Petal
Mistress Petal Penrose is a wonderful young woman, and quite talented. She's helped me with a number of things, including my little kit-boxes.
Written By Alexis
July 15, 2018, 2:04 p.m.(3/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Baltus
#4
I queried Lord Baltus about what being a soldier meant to him while we were discussing what kind of weapon a commander of Darkwater might use.
This is what he said:
"Being a soldier means a lot of things. Defending those weaker than yourself. Protecting your loved ones from harm. Doing the right thing, even when the right thing means cutting another man down..."
I mentioned that what he seemed to say about soldiers resonated with how others had described knights. He clarified for me.
"Knights serve a more lofty cause, in my mind. I suppose that I see soldiers as the every man. Fighting for that which matters to them. Outside of social class."
We made a simplification - there are knights who are not attuned to martial pursuit. That while all knights are soldiers, not all soldiers are knights.
And that is, perhaps, a good thing.
I queried Lord Baltus about what being a soldier meant to him while we were discussing what kind of weapon a commander of Darkwater might use.
This is what he said:
"Being a soldier means a lot of things. Defending those weaker than yourself. Protecting your loved ones from harm. Doing the right thing, even when the right thing means cutting another man down..."
I mentioned that what he seemed to say about soldiers resonated with how others had described knights. He clarified for me.
"Knights serve a more lofty cause, in my mind. I suppose that I see soldiers as the every man. Fighting for that which matters to them. Outside of social class."
We made a simplification - there are knights who are not attuned to martial pursuit. That while all knights are soldiers, not all soldiers are knights.
And that is, perhaps, a good thing.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.