Written By Anisha
Dec. 28, 2023, 11:57 a.m.(6/14/1021 AR)
I, for one, am very pleased that the Crown Prince of the Nox'Alfar isn't mad.
Written By Anisha
Dec. 14, 2021, 3:11 p.m.(9/28/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Camilla
I attended Lord Macario Malespero's birthday party, which was pleasant enough in itself. Familiar faces, good wine, ample refreshments. The lord seemed pleased with my gift, and conversation flowed easily enough.
But then, Suspire Camilla showed us her dance. Showed us her self. Showed us...
Words do grow poor. It was a remarkable feat of athleticism, of elegance and grace and ART in motion. It is something that must be experienced, and I feel like a better person for having seen it. For having witnessed such beauty, and knowing that I can forever cherish that memory. Yes.
My thanks to Lord Macario, for extending the invitation. To Master Sira for her extraordinary work in garbing the dancer.
And of course, to Suspire Camilla for a truly incomparable experience.
Written By Anisha
Dec. 5, 2021, 8:44 p.m.(9/11/1016 AR)
V,
What are you doing, these days? We write our letters, we dance our dances, but I don't know what you are doing. Are you happy? Content? Do you need change?
Do you need company?
Written By Anisha
Nov. 23, 2021, 9:52 p.m.(8/15/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Seren
Darling Seren is back in town, and while our relationship as patron and protege has ended, she is such a delight. I look forward to meeting her, to hearing her stories... And for those in search of a protege, I can but recommend her. Of course, I heard the criers mention her quest for a new patron mere hours ago. So she may have gotten a new patron already...
Written By Anisha
Oct. 25, 2021, 11:28 a.m.(6/12/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Zoey
With Princess Viviana returning to Setarco for a time, I had resolved myself to spend some time without a patron. Instead, I quickly found myself in an exchange of letters with Lady Zoey Kennex, whose friendship I have greatly valued. She is respectful, careful, and quite lovely, and after a lovely little dance of words, we have reached an accord. I am pleased to announce that Lady Zoey is my new patron.
Written By Anisha
Sept. 26, 2021, 8:46 p.m.(4/11/1016 AR)
Relationship Note on Cesare
Softest Whisper Cesare has found his place. When he came to me, I put certain demands before him, that he show himself worthy of being named Softest. He has exceeded my expectations in every way, and I am thrilled to have him. For fear of sounding an old crone, he reminds me of myself, not so long ago, when I was named Softest. I was hungry and eager and ambitious then. Not that I do not have those traits now, mind, but there's something about the seat of the Radiant that lends its weight to you in every way. And I find that I am very content to watch my Whispers grow and thrive. Cesare is going to be a big part of that going forth, and that makes my heart swell with joy.
Written By Anisha
Aug. 3, 2021, 5:24 p.m.(12/15/1015 AR)
Well. It took a goodly while, and a fair amount of money and favours, but Whisper House has been rebuilt. The efforts put in by the labourers and architects, the aid from carpenters and glass-blowers. The offers and gestures made by peerage and commoners alike - I am grateful.
The room is not a replica of what was, though we strove to maintain tradition. We also carry reminders, in several ways. And I hope that people will return once more to the House Whisper, and partake of our hospitality.
We have missed you.
Written By Anisha
July 26, 2021, 2:16 p.m.(11/27/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Cirroch
I don't recall meeting the late Marquis in the flesh. But I heard about him, from time to time. He was by all accounts well-suited to his March, Giant's Reach, and to hear some say it, he was a giant among men, at least metaphorically speaking.
He chose to stand in protection of my House and my Whispers. And for that, he was sent back to the wheel.
I mourn his loss. I mourn that I never did sit down to offer him refreshment and hospitality in person. I mourn for the future he would have had.
I am grateful to the late Marquis, and I am grateful to House Sanna.
And I am grateful to all who have offered support in these times. No Whispers lost their lives, and that is another thing I am grateful for, and I expect, in part, is to Marquis Cirroch's credit.
So may we all celebrate him, amidst mourning. And may the Queen of Endings see how sorely missed he is, and send him along the Wheel with due speed.
He chose to stand in protection of my House and my Whispers. And for that, he was sent back to the wheel.
I mourn his loss. I mourn that I never did sit down to offer him refreshment and hospitality in person. I mourn for the future he would have had.
I am grateful to the late Marquis, and I am grateful to House Sanna.
And I am grateful to all who have offered support in these times. No Whispers lost their lives, and that is another thing I am grateful for, and I expect, in part, is to Marquis Cirroch's credit.
So may we all celebrate him, amidst mourning. And may the Queen of Endings see how sorely missed he is, and send him along the Wheel with due speed.
Written By Anisha
July 5, 2021, 2:01 p.m.(10/13/1015 AR)
Relationship Note on Svana
I now have my first garment in rose leather; a beautiful gown that fits me like a glove. Snug, tender, and loving. Svana's touch never ceases to amaze me, and the hue and cut of the material is so lovely, almost beyond imagining. I have not worn it out yet, but I have been doing little pirouets and spins down the hall of the haven to watch how the skirts flourish and fall. It is a delight, and I look forward to having more clothing made of this remarkable hide.
Written By Anisha
July 1, 2021, 11:08 p.m.(10/5/1015 AR)
Rose-Tanned Leather is making its debut across the Compact, and I am receiving letters of excitement, gratitude, and anticipation. I am receiving praise and adulation, and as such it's important that people know that this was a team effort - more than that, it was a measure of the Compact, of noble houses and commoner organizations, all coming together to share expertise and resources.
Ages ago I came across alchemically treated leather - leather that had been made stiffer and firmer, better able to turn a blade or dissipate the blow of a foe. And for whatever reason, the craftsperson had decided to add some rosewater perfume to the product. Ever since, it stuck in my mind. Rose Leather, Rose Leather.
With the expertise of alchemists such as Lady Medeia and Mistress Galatea, and of expert tanners like Marquis-Consort Apollo - and those who are able to follow the intricacies of both trades, like my darling Svana... Well. It meant they could make my dream come true. Likewise, I owe thanks to Lady Mabelle Laurent for her expertise in haute couture. To have my Whispers Aconite and Nijah help spread word - and for Aconite to ensure we always had a resource in the Apothecary College and Professor Orick. I am grateful for their aid. Thanks to Dame Leola, who gladly set aside beds in the lodges to ensure that our breeds of roses were available, and for the hide they provided us. Thanks to my patron, Princess Viviana, and her work with Seraceni. Thanks to Countess Carita of Darkwater and Lord Martino of Malvici, for their immeasurable assistance in spreading the goods across the land. And thanks, of course, goes to the wonderful assistance of the Crafter's Guild, and to the support of my darling Whispers and our House.
A little bit of my dream comes true.
And it's smelling like roses.
Ages ago I came across alchemically treated leather - leather that had been made stiffer and firmer, better able to turn a blade or dissipate the blow of a foe. And for whatever reason, the craftsperson had decided to add some rosewater perfume to the product. Ever since, it stuck in my mind. Rose Leather, Rose Leather.
With the expertise of alchemists such as Lady Medeia and Mistress Galatea, and of expert tanners like Marquis-Consort Apollo - and those who are able to follow the intricacies of both trades, like my darling Svana... Well. It meant they could make my dream come true. Likewise, I owe thanks to Lady Mabelle Laurent for her expertise in haute couture. To have my Whispers Aconite and Nijah help spread word - and for Aconite to ensure we always had a resource in the Apothecary College and Professor Orick. I am grateful for their aid. Thanks to Dame Leola, who gladly set aside beds in the lodges to ensure that our breeds of roses were available, and for the hide they provided us. Thanks to my patron, Princess Viviana, and her work with Seraceni. Thanks to Countess Carita of Darkwater and Lord Martino of Malvici, for their immeasurable assistance in spreading the goods across the land. And thanks, of course, goes to the wonderful assistance of the Crafter's Guild, and to the support of my darling Whispers and our House.
A little bit of my dream comes true.
And it's smelling like roses.
Written By Anisha
April 15, 2021, 7:40 p.m.(4/19/1015 AR)
If ever I desire to shame someone, I shall hope I get the opportunity to do so to their face. And whether I do it with my tongue or with my writing, rest assured that they - and anyone who sees or hears what is going down - will not have the slightest sliver of a doubt as to my intention.
House Whisper holds diplomats and courtiers, we serve as a hub for the courtier's guild, which includes people from all ranks of Arvum society - including no small number of nobles passionate about the arts of grace and diplomacy. As the Radiant of Whisper House, I am also the Guildmaster of the Courtier's Guild - and while the two are not quite synonymous, it is rare that the two are a different person.
Thus, it is ever our position - my position - to try to rise above arguments and squabbles. To take the higher road and to encourage peaceful resolutions. Where there is disharmony and disquiet, it is our job and our calling to try to find common ground.
As I've noted elsewhere, there's a marked difference of being of the opinion that someone is in need of lessons from Whisper House - that is far from uncommon, and while it may lead to the occasional honour duel, it's hardly controversial.
But this last year or two has seen a rise in people calling for Whispers in the streets and from Criers, offering to pay for lessons to this or that person.
This is uncouth. And our silence on the matter has been considered acceptance, I guess?
Put plain - if you wish to call upon us for lessons, then yes, you can do so privately or using criers and classifieds, even if doing so on behalf of another. However, if you are not in a position of authority over them - as their master of order or guild, or their head of house - then you are overstepping. Unless, of course, you are doing it as a favour for a friend, with their knowledge and consent. And if you ARE overstepping, then you are brooking insult to the person's head of house, etcetera, and they would be within their rights to challenge you to a duel.
Which of course, may be the point.
But please, unless you genuinely want our involvement - keep Whisper House out of your squabbles.
House Whisper holds diplomats and courtiers, we serve as a hub for the courtier's guild, which includes people from all ranks of Arvum society - including no small number of nobles passionate about the arts of grace and diplomacy. As the Radiant of Whisper House, I am also the Guildmaster of the Courtier's Guild - and while the two are not quite synonymous, it is rare that the two are a different person.
Thus, it is ever our position - my position - to try to rise above arguments and squabbles. To take the higher road and to encourage peaceful resolutions. Where there is disharmony and disquiet, it is our job and our calling to try to find common ground.
As I've noted elsewhere, there's a marked difference of being of the opinion that someone is in need of lessons from Whisper House - that is far from uncommon, and while it may lead to the occasional honour duel, it's hardly controversial.
But this last year or two has seen a rise in people calling for Whispers in the streets and from Criers, offering to pay for lessons to this or that person.
This is uncouth. And our silence on the matter has been considered acceptance, I guess?
Put plain - if you wish to call upon us for lessons, then yes, you can do so privately or using criers and classifieds, even if doing so on behalf of another. However, if you are not in a position of authority over them - as their master of order or guild, or their head of house - then you are overstepping. Unless, of course, you are doing it as a favour for a friend, with their knowledge and consent. And if you ARE overstepping, then you are brooking insult to the person's head of house, etcetera, and they would be within their rights to challenge you to a duel.
Which of course, may be the point.
But please, unless you genuinely want our involvement - keep Whisper House out of your squabbles.
Written By Anisha
March 8, 2021, 4:25 a.m.(1/26/1015 AR)
While I can't say it's been a lifelong dream to become Radiant, it has been something on my mind ever since I stepped into the halls of the Whisper House in Setarco.
Now, I find that the title is mine, and I do FEEL radiant - suffused from within by a glow of contentment. I was ecstatic to hear that I'd been nominated by Radiant Emeritus Bliss, and even more so to hear I was elected by acclaim. But happiness comes in moments, and comfort and contentment is the warmth that such moments leave behind. Our lives can be traced in the stars of the sky, each one a heartbeat of joy, and our work is in tracing the path.
I wax poetic, scholar, I apologise.
I am Radiant Anisha Whisper. And I am thankful to the Radiants Emeritus, and to all my siblings at Whisper House for the faith they have shown in me. Now it is time to prove worthy of their faith.
After I celebrate with a bottle and some special people.
Written By Anisha
March 7, 2021, 6:58 p.m.(1/25/1015 AR)
The time has come, and I've made it official. The darling Svana Grayhope is my protege. Her talent as a seamstress is wonderful; she works with leather and alchemy, too, and more than that, well. She's a wondrous mother, and a loving and supportive companion. I adore her, and I'm thrilled to have her and make our relationship formal in this way. I can't wait to see what great things the future holds for her - and what role I can take in fostering her many talents.
Written By Anisha
Feb. 28, 2021, 10:12 a.m.(1/11/1015 AR)
The People's Tournament is done with for 1014. It was a thrill - and exhausting. I've spent the last thirteen nights or so recovering. But so, so worth it. Thank you all who sponsored, witnessed, participated, and otherwise engaged with the tournament. Truly, it couldn't have been done without you.
For future records, then, the results of the People's Tournament of 1014
Wagon Run Winner: Lore Artiglio
Fishing Derby Decisive: Sailor Zakhar
Muddy Run Rapid: Sydney the Waterfall
Fist Fight Fantastic: Sydney the Waterfall
By Points:
Samira Culler in 5th Place (110 000)
Svana Grayhope in 4th Place (220 000)
Lore Artiglio in 3rd Place (330 000)
Savio Pontelaus in 2nd Place (450 000)
Sydney the Waterfall, Grand Winner (700 000)
And finally, the People's Choice, for quick wit and elegant spirit:
Savio Pontelaus (330 000, and a Crown).
Thank you all. Hopefully, there'll be another one of these soon enough.
For future records, then, the results of the People's Tournament of 1014
Wagon Run Winner: Lore Artiglio
Fishing Derby Decisive: Sailor Zakhar
Muddy Run Rapid: Sydney the Waterfall
Fist Fight Fantastic: Sydney the Waterfall
By Points:
Samira Culler in 5th Place (110 000)
Svana Grayhope in 4th Place (220 000)
Lore Artiglio in 3rd Place (330 000)
Savio Pontelaus in 2nd Place (450 000)
Sydney the Waterfall, Grand Winner (700 000)
And finally, the People's Choice, for quick wit and elegant spirit:
Savio Pontelaus (330 000, and a Crown).
Thank you all. Hopefully, there'll be another one of these soon enough.
Written By Anisha
Feb. 10, 2021, 6:43 a.m.(11/28/1014 AR)
Honouring the late Mistress Joscelin was a thrill. The work of the crafters on display was enough to make me weak in the knees. Truly a momentous event, and I like Count Duarte's attitude - that the attendees are what makes the event exclusive.
The models showcasing the pieces were thrilling, skilled, and lovely to see. To know them, to be close to them, to see my friends be raised up by art simply astonishing and amazing. And of course, I fell in love with my own outfit and simply had to have it - with Count Duarte once more proving his generosity. He's truly an astonishing individual, and I can only hope I will get the chance to repay the good turns he so eagerly shows.
Amanita acquitted herself very well - the woman wears cupridium like it was silk, and I simply adored watching her on stage. She made me proud, as Softest.
The models showcasing the pieces were thrilling, skilled, and lovely to see. To know them, to be close to them, to see my friends be raised up by art simply astonishing and amazing. And of course, I fell in love with my own outfit and simply had to have it - with Count Duarte once more proving his generosity. He's truly an astonishing individual, and I can only hope I will get the chance to repay the good turns he so eagerly shows.
Amanita acquitted herself very well - the woman wears cupridium like it was silk, and I simply adored watching her on stage. She made me proud, as Softest.
Written By Anisha
Feb. 10, 2021, 6:24 a.m.(11/28/1014 AR)
I've spent a full day in the chill of the Lowers in Autumn, with warm and spiced drink at hand, watching people celebrate and drag wagons, run wagons around. Seen mud churned and paving stones been made well. It's an interesting contest Mistress Josephine dreamed up, where dockworkers and wagonmasters come together and share the labours of their field, so we might turn it into a competition. Complete with the delivery of goods and parcels all over the place. They've been well compensated, of course. And near as I can tell, there were very few mishaps with the deliveries. I suppose people knew not to send heirlooms along to be delivered today in particular.
We had a spirited and good showing, and the finale turned into a bit of a nail-biter. The top three for the Run were Svana Grayhope at third, and I'm sure the Grayhopes will be well thrilled with her positioning, then Sydney the Waterfall coming in second - but don't worry if you thought she won, she was in high enough spirits for everyone.
Lore Artiglio took the title of Queen of Wagons for this year, and I was thrilled to give away the first Crown. More thrilled to watch people eat good food and turn this day into a feast day. To share in stories and community.
I see now, why it was so important to her, and I can't wait to host the rest of these contests.
We had a spirited and good showing, and the finale turned into a bit of a nail-biter. The top three for the Run were Svana Grayhope at third, and I'm sure the Grayhopes will be well thrilled with her positioning, then Sydney the Waterfall coming in second - but don't worry if you thought she won, she was in high enough spirits for everyone.
Lore Artiglio took the title of Queen of Wagons for this year, and I was thrilled to give away the first Crown. More thrilled to watch people eat good food and turn this day into a feast day. To share in stories and community.
I see now, why it was so important to her, and I can't wait to host the rest of these contests.
Written By Anisha
Jan. 17, 2021, 4:08 p.m.(10/8/1014 AR)
I just watched the Swan and Dove sail into the bay of Thrax, fresh from the dockyards in Setarco.
She is a beautiful ship. And she's mine. I must send a token of gratitude to Princess Adrienne.
Though now I wonder; should House Whisper also see about the construction and purchase as a caravel? I can imagine it would come in very handy for any number of reasons.
And if we do, what should we call such a thing?
Maybe I'll check in with my darlings and see what they think.
She is a beautiful ship. And she's mine. I must send a token of gratitude to Princess Adrienne.
Though now I wonder; should House Whisper also see about the construction and purchase as a caravel? I can imagine it would come in very handy for any number of reasons.
And if we do, what should we call such a thing?
Maybe I'll check in with my darlings and see what they think.
Written By Anisha
Dec. 27, 2020, 5 a.m.(8/21/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Damik
I have waited, to gather my thoughts, in the hopes that the words will come, and take away the pain. Or at least lessen the sting.
Prince Damik was an impressive man, and to see him and Lady Monique together, as they came out of the chambers where they'd had their private discussion was a sight - and when I saw their expressions, I felt hope blossom in my chest. I witnessed firsthand the might he and his soldiers brought to bear at Sungreet. And I thanked the gods they were on our side.
I never did spend much time with him, beyond that. Though I was happy for my friend, and eager to see how the two of them would change each other, as I witnessed the first spark of Lagoma's touch between them.
I mourn our loss, Prince Damik'uhl'daja. But I celebrate that you were with us. I still carry hope that the fires sparked on your ship that day will still rise into a mighty conflagration.
And while I am no soldier, I will strive to forever remind people why we fight. And that we have more in common than not.
Prince Damik was an impressive man, and to see him and Lady Monique together, as they came out of the chambers where they'd had their private discussion was a sight - and when I saw their expressions, I felt hope blossom in my chest. I witnessed firsthand the might he and his soldiers brought to bear at Sungreet. And I thanked the gods they were on our side.
I never did spend much time with him, beyond that. Though I was happy for my friend, and eager to see how the two of them would change each other, as I witnessed the first spark of Lagoma's touch between them.
I mourn our loss, Prince Damik'uhl'daja. But I celebrate that you were with us. I still carry hope that the fires sparked on your ship that day will still rise into a mighty conflagration.
And while I am no soldier, I will strive to forever remind people why we fight. And that we have more in common than not.
Written By Anisha
Oct. 6, 2020, 2:42 a.m.(2/25/1014 AR)
Relationship Note on Orick
A Softest Whisper does her best to spread her attention, and I've placed it in Tor Plaza today. Visiting Professor Orick's shop, "a Taste of Tor". Wines, perfumes, masks. A delightful little find.
He's running a silent auction for a one-of-a-kind, unique mask, too, which... Well. He claims it's less a mask, more a piece of art. A statement.
I don't disagree.
It's a curious thing, really. I've seen _similar_ before. And the choice of his cast is intriguing. I might be tempted to put in a bid solely to add it to my collection.
It would do nicely next to Master Apollo's "Attention".
If I win, I might place them opposite each other.
He's running a silent auction for a one-of-a-kind, unique mask, too, which... Well. He claims it's less a mask, more a piece of art. A statement.
I don't disagree.
It's a curious thing, really. I've seen _similar_ before. And the choice of his cast is intriguing. I might be tempted to put in a bid solely to add it to my collection.
It would do nicely next to Master Apollo's "Attention".
If I win, I might place them opposite each other.
Written By Anisha
Sept. 8, 2020, 1:57 a.m.(12/25/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Seren
I have been blessed with the patrons that have chosen me. Princess Reese was and continues to be a delight. Jadara-shizhe holds a special place in my heart.
They are luminaries. Pillars. A tough act to follow, to say the least.
I dismissed the idea of taking a protege time and time again - I am after all simply a commoner. Fairly well respected and with a most enviable position, but a commoner.
Besides, the responsibility you take up as a patron can be daunting. And I was worried - would I make a good patron? Would I be able to spare the time and efforts? Would my protege be well in hand?
Well. There is only one way to find out. And I will do my best.
Mistress Seren Walker is an able performer, and a talented jeweler. I did not mention her in my previous journal because she would get her very own page to celebrate her. She is a thrill, she is a joy.
And she is my protege.
I hope I will prove worthy of you, Seren. I hope I can raise you to such heights that you may touch the stars themselves.
They are luminaries. Pillars. A tough act to follow, to say the least.
I dismissed the idea of taking a protege time and time again - I am after all simply a commoner. Fairly well respected and with a most enviable position, but a commoner.
Besides, the responsibility you take up as a patron can be daunting. And I was worried - would I make a good patron? Would I be able to spare the time and efforts? Would my protege be well in hand?
Well. There is only one way to find out. And I will do my best.
Mistress Seren Walker is an able performer, and a talented jeweler. I did not mention her in my previous journal because she would get her very own page to celebrate her. She is a thrill, she is a joy.
And she is my protege.
I hope I will prove worthy of you, Seren. I hope I can raise you to such heights that you may touch the stars themselves.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.